Update: Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections (2024)

Update: Commissioners Call for Strengthened Community Immigrant Protections (2024)

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.

Volunteers contributed over 4,252 hours to this program last year. The Parks & Open Space coordinates with 21 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Thursday, April 30 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.

Community Impact

According to Amanda Foster, director of Parks & Open Space, this program served 85% 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,” Amanda Foster said.

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.

Related Programs

Environmental review of the project area near Flagstaff Road found 3 sensitive species and 4 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Parks & Open Space worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

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