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  • July 2024: Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election

    July 2024: Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election

    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.

    According to Sarah Mitchell, director of Community Planning & Permitting, this program served 41% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Gunbarrel and the surrounding area,” Sarah Mitchell said.

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

    Timeline

    Water quality monitoring at 19 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Community Planning & Permitting publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Volunteers contributed over 11,589 hours to this program last year. The Community Planning & Permitting coordinates with 16 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Community Impact

    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 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    The Community Planning & Permitting processed over 4,369 applications last year, with an average processing time of 4 business days. Staff are available at the Gunbarrel office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

  • Update: Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road (2026)

    Update: Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road (2026)

    The Boulder County Planning Commission has approved a rezoning request to allow construction of a 48-unit affordable housing development on Arapahoe Road near the intersection with 63rd Street. The project will provide permanently affordable rental units for households earning 30-60% of area median income.

    The Coalton Trail open space property encompasses 2,077 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.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 45% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    What You Need to Know

    The project includes improvements along Sunshine Canyon Drive between Niwot and the intersection with SH-119 Diagonal Highway. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 11 months.

    Safety data from the Niwot area shows 33 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 13% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Sunshine Canyon Drive and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Contact Information

    A community information session will be held at the Niwot library on Sunday, May 31 at 7:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their May 31 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

  • Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds

    Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds

    Boulder County residents can safely dispose of household hazardous waste including paint, solvents, pesticides, batteries, and electronics at a free collection event on Saturday, April 19 at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. No appointment is necessary. Commercial waste is not accepted.

    The Erie Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 3,859 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    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.

    Eligibility

    The project includes improvements along Coal Creek Canyon Road between Erie and the intersection with Coal Creek Canyon Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 with completion expected within 9 months.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 32% 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.

    Background

    A community information session will be held at the Erie library on Monday, April 27 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.

    For questions about this program, contact Sarah Mitchell at Transportation: (303) 441-4500 or email [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Erie office without an appointment.

  • Allenspark Community Briefing: New Floodplain Development Permit Available for Public Comment

    Allenspark Community Briefing: New Floodplain Development Permit Available for Public Comment

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed updates to the General Floodplain Development Permit process. Changes include streamlined review timelines, updated fee structures, and new requirements for climate-adjusted flood risk assessments. Comments are due by April 30.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 43% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 7,228 responses from residents across the county.

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

    Details

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,131 affordable housing units since its inception, with 203 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Volunteers contributed over 14,342 hours to this program last year. The Housing & Human Services coordinates with 7 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

  • Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons — Lyons Area

    Parks & Open Space Acquires 340-Acre Conservation Easement Near Lyons — Lyons Area

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space has acquired a 340-acre conservation easement on a working ranch near the town of Lyons. The easement permanently protects critical wildlife habitat along the St. Vrain Creek corridor and preserves agricultural land from future development while keeping the property in private ownership.

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Monday, June 1 at 7:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    Funding of $261,000 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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Safety data from the Gunbarrel area shows 17 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 18% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Nelson Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    For questions about this program, contact Carlos Rivera at Housing & Human Services: (303) 441-7976 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.

  • Jamestown Community Briefing: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds

    Jamestown Community Briefing: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds

    Boulder County residents can safely dispose of household hazardous waste including paint, solvents, pesticides, batteries, and electronics at a free collection event on Saturday, April 19 at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. No appointment is necessary. Commercial waste is not accepted.

    Safety data from the Niwot area shows 13 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 15% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along SH-7 / Ute Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Environmental review of the project area near SH-7 / Ute Highway found 7 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Assessor’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    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 2025, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 57% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 4,548 responses from residents across the county.

  • January: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County

    January: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County

    Due to dry conditions and elevated fire danger, Stage 1 fire restrictions are now in effect for all unincorporated areas of Boulder County. Open burning, campfires outside designated fire grates, and the use of explosive fireworks are prohibited. Violations may result in fines up to $600.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 44% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    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.

    Next Steps

    Safety data from the Louisville area shows 28 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 13% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Arapahoe Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    According to Carlos Rivera, director of Area Agency on Aging, this program served 44% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Louisville and the surrounding area,” Carlos Rivera said.

    How to Participate

    Residents in the Louisville area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Area Agency on Aging at (303) 441-6287 to verify eligibility and requirements.

  • Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections — Louisville Area

    Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections — Louisville Area

    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.

    Safety data from the Superior area shows 45 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 19% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along Niwot Road and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 731 affordable housing units since its inception, with 274 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Next Steps

    Water quality monitoring at 18 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2024. The Resource Conservation publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    The Bald Mountain open space property encompasses 2,231 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.

    Timeline

    Volunteers contributed over 10,211 hours to this program last year. The Resource Conservation coordinates with 13 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

  • Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — April 2026

    Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment — April 2026

    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 Superior Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 3,566 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 61% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 4,697 responses from residents across the county.

    Community Impact

    The application deadline is June 9, 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 10 business days.

    Environmental review of the project area near 63rd Street found 12 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Housing & Human Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    How to Participate

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $22,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,576 affordable housing units since its inception, with 95 additional units in the development pipeline.

  • Update: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County (2026)

    Update: Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County (2026)

    Due to dry conditions and elevated fire danger, Stage 1 fire restrictions are now in effect for all unincorporated areas of Boulder County. Open burning, campfires outside designated fire grates, and the use of explosive fireworks are prohibited. Violations may result in fines up to $600.

    Water quality monitoring at 16 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Public Works publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Public Works, 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.

    Resources

    According to Maria Gonzalez, director of Public Works, this program served 19% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Lafayette and the surrounding area,” Maria Gonzalez said.

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 70% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $79,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.