September: Boulder County Adopts $745 Million Budget for 2026

September: Boulder County Adopts $745 Million Budget for 2026

The Board of County Commissioners has adopted the 2026 Boulder County budget totaling $745 million. Key investments include $42 million for affordable housing initiatives, $28 million for transportation infrastructure, and $15 million for wildfire mitigation and climate resilience programs.

Volunteers contributed over 14,591 hours to this program last year. The Community Planning & Permitting coordinates with 17 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

The Legion Park open space property encompasses 635 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.

Contact Information

For questions about this program, contact Diana Orozco at Community Planning & Permitting: (303) 441-3185 or email Community Planning & [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.

Safety data from the Erie area shows 40 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 11% 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.

How to Participate

According to Diana Orozco, director of Community Planning & Permitting, this program served 78% more residents in 2024 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Erie and the surrounding area,” Diana Orozco said.

Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2024 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 737 affordable housing units since its inception, with 210 additional units in the development pipeline.