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  • Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds Near Eldora

    Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds Near Eldora

    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.

    According to Maria Gonzalez, director of Assessor’s Office, this program served 36% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Nederland and the surrounding area,” Maria Gonzalez said.

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

    Background

    For questions about this program, contact Maria Gonzalez at Assessor’s Office: (303) 441-9128 or email Assessor’s [email protected]. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Walk-in services are available at the Nederland office without an appointment.

    Safety data from the Nederland area shows 45 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 22% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

  • Lafayette Community Briefing: Human Services Safety Net Initiative Awards $2.1 Million to Nonprofits

    Lafayette Community Briefing: Human Services Safety Net Initiative Awards $2.1 Million to Nonprofits

    Boulder County Human Services has awarded $2.1 million through the Safety Net Initiative to 18 local nonprofit organizations. Funded programs provide food assistance, emergency shelter, behavioral health services, legal aid, and transportation assistance to vulnerable populations throughout Boulder County.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 88% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    The Gunbarrel Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 1,311 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Eligibility

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,444 affordable housing units since its inception, with 216 additional units in the development pipeline.

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Monday, June 1 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.

    How to Participate

    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.

    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.

  • Human Services Safety Net Initiative Awards $2.1 Million to Nonprofits — Superior Area

    Human Services Safety Net Initiative Awards $2.1 Million to Nonprofits — Superior Area

    Boulder County Human Services has awarded $2.1 million through the Safety Net Initiative to 18 local nonprofit organizations. Funded programs provide food assistance, emergency shelter, behavioral health services, legal aid, and transportation assistance to vulnerable populations throughout Boulder County.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 73% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 7,256 responses from residents across the county.

    The application deadline is June 2, 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 27 business days.

    Background

    Water quality monitoring at 16 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2025. The Human Services publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    For questions about this program, contact Maria Gonzalez at Human Services: (303) 441-9439 or email Human [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.

  • January: Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills

    January: Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory for Western Foothills

    Boulder County Public Health has issued an air quality advisory for communities in the western foothills due to elevated particulate matter levels from prescribed burns in the Roosevelt National Forest. Residents with respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor activity and keep windows closed until conditions improve.

    Volunteers contributed over 10,092 hours to this program last year. The Housing & Human Services coordinates with 25 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Funding of $58,000 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.

    Eligibility

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $58,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    The Housing & Human Services processed over 9,949 applications last year, with an average processing time of 4 business days. Staff are available at the Boulder office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Details

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 25% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,628 responses from residents across the county.

    According to Sarah Mitchell, director of Housing & Human Services, this program served 25% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Boulder and the surrounding area,” Sarah Mitchell said.

  • Eldora Community Briefing: Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions

    Eldora Community Briefing: Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions

    Boulder County is accepting applications for Youth Corps Team Leader positions for the 2026 season. Team Leaders supervise crews of young adults working on conservation projects including trail construction, habitat restoration, and wildfire fuel reduction across Boulder County open space properties. Positions start in May.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 17% of properties in the Lafayette 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.

    Volunteers contributed over 4,138 hours to this program last year. The Housing & Human Services coordinates with 24 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Community Impact

    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 41 departments and offices.

    Environmental review of the project area near Nelson Road found 8 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Housing & Human Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Background

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 15% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,087 responses from residents across the county.

  • Superior Community Briefing: Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment

    Superior Community Briefing: Draft Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Released for Public Comment

    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.

    Water quality monitoring at 12 stations along Boulder Creek, St. Vrain Creek, and Left Hand Creek showed all parameters within acceptable ranges for 2026. The Area Agency on Aging publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Residents in the Erie area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Area Agency on Aging at (303) 441-6114 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Background

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,081 affordable housing units since its inception, with 244 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Safety data from the Erie area shows 44 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 14% change from the previous year. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols along CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway and added community outreach programs in response to resident feedback.

    What You Need to Know

    The project includes improvements along CO-72 Peak-to-Peak Highway between Erie and the intersection with 63rd Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2026 with completion expected within 18 months.

    According to Carlos Rivera, director of Area Agency on Aging, this program served 30% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Erie and the surrounding area,” Carlos Rivera said.

  • Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — Lyons Area

    Planning Commission Approves Rezoning for Affordable Housing on Arapahoe Road — Lyons Area

    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 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.

    A community information session will be held at the Lafayette library on Sunday, April 19 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.

    Community Impact

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2026 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 679 affordable housing units since its inception, with 279 additional units in the development pipeline.

    Volunteers contributed over 13,821 hours to this program last year. The Parks & Open Space coordinates with 8 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    What You Need to Know

    Funding of $122,000 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 2026 budget session.

  • Longmont Community Briefing: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment

    Longmont Community Briefing: Commissioners Approve Accessory Dwelling Unit Code Amendment

    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.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 35% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 3,812 responses from residents across the county.

    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 2195 county employees across 50 departments and offices.

    Resources

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 18% 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.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $284,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    What You Need to Know

    Residents in the Superior area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Housing & Human Services at (303) 441-6832 to verify eligibility and requirements.

  • Lyons Community Briefing: Circular Economy Fund Awards $50,000 to Five Local Organizations

    Lyons Community Briefing: Circular Economy Fund Awards $50,000 to Five Local Organizations

    Boulder County’s Resource Conservation Division has awarded $50,000 in grants to five local organizations through the 2026 Circular Economy Fund. Recipients include projects focused on food waste reduction, textile reuse, construction material salvage, and community repair events.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 39% of properties in the Longmont 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.

    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 Public Works publishes quarterly water quality reports on the Boulder County website.

    Timeline

    The Betasso Preserve open space property encompasses 1,603 acres and features 7 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $144,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

  • Update: Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions (2025)

    Update: Applications Open for Youth Corps Team Leader Positions (2025)

    Boulder County is accepting applications for Youth Corps Team Leader positions for the 2026 season. Team Leaders supervise crews of young adults working on conservation projects including trail construction, habitat restoration, and wildfire fuel reduction across Boulder County open space properties. Positions start in May.

    The Niwot Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,933 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 250 affordable housing units since its inception, with 200 additional units in the development pipeline.

    How to Participate

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

    A community information session will be held at the Niwot library on Monday, May 4 at 6:00 PM. Translation services in Spanish and Nepali will be available. The session will also be livestreamed on the Boulder County YouTube channel.

    Details

    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.

    According to Carlos Rivera, director of Housing & Human Services, this program served 63% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Niwot and the surrounding area,” Carlos Rivera said.