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  • Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — December 2025

    Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — December 2025

    The Board of County Commissioners has approved amendments to the Boulder County Land Use Code to streamline the process for building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties in unincorporated areas. Changes include reduced setback requirements, simplified design standards, and by-right approval for units under 800 square feet.

    Funding of $357,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2024 budget session.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 21 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Related Programs

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2038 county employees across 39 departments and offices.

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2024, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    What You Need to Know

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 94% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    The Boulder Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,150 seniors participated in center programs last year.

  • Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — Follow-Up Report

    Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment — Follow-Up Report

    The City of Boulder and Boulder County have released the draft 2026 Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan update for public review and comment. The plan addresses land use, housing, transportation, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. Public comments will be accepted through May 15.

    Funding of $407,000 for this initiative comes from a combination of federal grants, state matching funds, and the Boulder County General Fund. The Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation during the 2024 budget session.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 30% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $41,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Details

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 26% of properties in the Gunbarrel area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Sheriff’s Office, or in person at the next Board of County Commissioners meeting. Written comments received by 5:00 PM the day before the hearing will be included in the public record.

    Related Programs

    Transportation access remains a key concern. Boulder County’s Via mobility program provides door-to-door transit service for residents in Gunbarrel and surrounding communities who cannot access fixed-route bus service. RTD routes B, J, and BOLT serve major corridors.

  • Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter — Jamestown Area

    Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter — Jamestown Area

    The February edition of the Boulder County Resource Conservation newsletter features updates on the 2026 composting grant program, tips for reducing food waste at home, upcoming zero waste events, and a spotlight on local businesses achieving zero waste certification.

    Residents in the Gunbarrel area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience at (303) 441-9468 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $262,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Resources

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 28% of properties in the Gunbarrel area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Thursday, April 16 at 5:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    What You Need to Know

    According to Jennifer Walsh, director of Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience, this program served 54% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Gunbarrel and the surrounding area,” Jennifer Walsh said.

  • November 2024: Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter

    November 2024: Resource Conservation Division Releases February Newsletter

    The February edition of the Boulder County Resource Conservation newsletter features updates on the 2026 composting grant program, tips for reducing food waste at home, upcoming zero waste events, and a spotlight on local businesses achieving zero waste certification.

    The project includes improvements along Sunshine Canyon Drive between Lyons and the intersection with 63rd Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 12 months.

    According to Amanda Foster, director of Transportation, this program served 65% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lyons and the surrounding area,” Amanda Foster said.

    Resources

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 15 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 65% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 7,436 responses from residents across the county.

    Contact Information

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2026, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    The Walden Ponds open space property encompasses 1,940 acres and features 15 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

  • Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections Near Niwot

    Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections Near Niwot

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has issued a resolution reaffirming the county’s commitment to protecting immigrant community members and ensuring equal access to county services regardless of immigration status. The resolution directs county staff to review and strengthen existing policies.

    Residents in the Erie area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Community Planning & Permitting at (303) 441-6019 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    The application deadline is June 18, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 23 business days.

    Resources

    The Pella Crossing open space property encompasses 414 acres and features 13 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 16% of properties in the Erie area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

  • Lyons Community Briefing: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal

    Lyons Community Briefing: Boulder County Launches Updated Online Building Permit Portal

    Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting has launched an updated online building permit portal with improved search functionality, real-time status tracking, and mobile-friendly document uploads. The new system reduces average permit review times by 15% and allows applicants to schedule inspections online.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,724 affordable housing units since its inception, with 271 additional units in the development pipeline.

    The Walden Ponds open space property encompasses 2,156 acres and features 8 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Details

    Residents in the Gunbarrel area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Sheriff’s Office at (303) 441-5587 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Environmental review of the project area near Niwot Road found 8 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Sheriff’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Contact Information

    The Gunbarrel Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,946 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Historical context: Boulder County was established in 1861 and covers 741 square miles of diverse terrain from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide. The county’s population of approximately 330,000 residents is served by 2319 county employees across 38 departments and offices.

  • Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — Follow-Up Report

    Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — Follow-Up Report

    The Board of County Commissioners has approved amendments to the Boulder County Land Use Code to streamline the process for building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties in unincorporated areas. Changes include reduced setback requirements, simplified design standards, and by-right approval for units under 800 square feet.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    Water quality monitoring at 14 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Area Agency on Aging publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Resources

    Colorado state law requires all counties to provide these services to eligible residents. Boulder County exceeds minimum state requirements by offering expanded hours, multilingual support, and online access. In 2024, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    The Area Agency on Aging processed over 1,820 applications last year, with an average processing time of 11 business days. Staff are available at the Nederland office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Community Impact

    The application deadline is May 14, 2026. Late applications will be accepted on a space-available basis. Incomplete applications will be returned with a list of missing items. Average review time is 30 business days.

  • Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election Near Nederland

    Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election Near Nederland

    The registration deadline for the June 2026 Colorado Primary Election is May 25. Boulder County residents can register online at GoVoteColorado.gov, by mail, or in person at any Voter Service and Polling Center. Same-day registration is available during early voting and on Election Day with valid ID.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 22 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 74% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Timeline

    For questions about this program, contact Michael Kowalski at Housing & Human Services: (303) 441-2791 or email Housing & Human [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Gunbarrel office without an appointment.

    Residents in the Gunbarrel area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Housing & Human Services at (303) 441-2791 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Contact Information

    According to Michael Kowalski, director of Housing & Human Services, this program served 74% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Gunbarrel and the surrounding area,” Michael Kowalski said.

  • Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections Near Longmont

    Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections Near Longmont

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has issued a resolution reaffirming the county’s commitment to protecting immigrant community members and ensuring equal access to county services regardless of immigration status. The resolution directs county staff to review and strengthen existing policies.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their June 12 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    The Parks & Open Space processed over 6,243 applications last year, with an average processing time of 21 business days. Staff are available at the Superior office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    How to Participate

    Water quality monitoring at 9 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Parks & Open Space publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 24% of properties in the Superior area are within the wildland-urban interface. Free home assessments are available through the Wildfire Partners program, with rebates of up to $2,500 for mitigation improvements.

  • Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections

    Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has issued a resolution reaffirming the county’s commitment to protecting immigrant community members and ensuring equal access to county services regardless of immigration status. The resolution directs county staff to review and strengthen existing policies.

    The program is modeled after similar successful initiatives in Larimer County and Jefferson County. Boulder County’s version includes additional provisions for wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability.

    Environmental review of the project area near Baseline Road found 12 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Planning & Permitting worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    What You Need to Know

    Safety data from the Nederland area shows 39 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 23% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Baseline Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    The Community Planning & Permitting processed over 6,986 applications last year, with an average processing time of 5 business days. Staff are available at the Nederland office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Resources

    The Caribou Ranch open space property encompasses 514 acres and features 12 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.