Tag: news

  • Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — August 2024

    Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — August 2024

    Boulder County is pleased to announce the appointment of a new Parks & Open Space Director. The incoming director brings over 20 years of experience in public land management and conservation. They will oversee the department’s 100,000+ acres of protected land and 150 miles of multi-use trails.

    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 2263 county employees across 37 departments and offices.

    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

    The application deadline is May 8, 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 19 business days.

    The Human Services processed over 5,604 applications last year, with an average processing time of 14 business days. Staff are available at the Superior office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The Superior Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 4,071 seniors participated in center programs last year.

  • Assessor’s Office Helps Eligible Seniors Keep Property Tax Relief After a Move — Follow-Up Report

    Assessor’s Office Helps Eligible Seniors Keep Property Tax Relief After a Move — Follow-Up Report

    The Boulder County Assessor’s Office reminds qualifying seniors that Colorado’s property tax exemption portability provision allows them to transfer their exemption to a new primary residence within the county. Seniors who have moved should contact the Assessor’s Office to ensure their exemption transfers correctly.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Parks & Open Space, 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.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 80% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    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 2026, the county received a state award for excellence in service delivery.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 80% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 4,055 responses from residents across the county.

  • Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election — Follow-Up Report

    Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    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.

    Boulder County has partnered with the cities of Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, and Louisville on this project. Combined investment across all jurisdictions totals $149,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

    Eligibility

    According to Amanda Foster, director of Human Services, this program served 38% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Longmont and the surrounding area,” Amanda Foster said.

    The Legion Park open space property encompasses 494 acres and features 5 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Next Steps

    The Human Services processed over 9,728 applications last year, with an average processing time of 19 business days. Staff are available at the Longmont office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    For questions about this program, contact Amanda Foster at Human Services: (303) 441-9999 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 Longmont office without an appointment.

  • Update: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds (2026)

    Update: Hazardous Waste Collection Event Scheduled for April 19 at Fairgrounds (2026)

    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.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 78% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 7,757 responses from residents across the county.

    According to Diana Orozco, director of Assessor’s Office, this program served 78% more residents in 2026 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Niwot and the surrounding area,” Diana Orozco said.

    What You Need to Know

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 38% of properties in the Niwot 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.

    Environmental review of the project area near South Boulder Road found 8 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

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 78% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Funding of $83,000 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.

  • Update: $6.3 Million Awarded for Affordable Housing and Human Services Projects (2026)

    Update: $6.3 Million Awarded for Affordable Housing and Human Services Projects (2026)

    Boulder County has awarded $6.3 million in Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership funds to 12 affordable housing, childcare, and human services projects throughout the county. Funded projects include new affordable rental construction, homebuyer assistance, and childcare facility improvements.

    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.

    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.

    Contact Information

    The project includes improvements along Coal Creek Canyon Road between Louisville and the intersection with 63rd Street. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2026 with completion expected within 14 months.

    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.

    Details

    The Carolyn Holmberg Preserve open space property encompasses 1,770 acres and features 3 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 $317,000, making it one of the largest collaborative efforts in the county’s history.

  • Allenspark Community Briefing: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities

    Allenspark Community Briefing: New Funding Opportunity to Support Housing for People with Disabilities

    Boulder County Housing & Human Services announces a new funding opportunity for projects that create or preserve affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities. Up to $500,000 is available for capital improvements, accessibility modifications, and supportive housing development. Applications are due May 1.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 47% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Residents in the Erie area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Resource Conservation at (303) 441-3538 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Timeline

    For questions about this program, contact Amanda Foster at Resource Conservation: (303) 441-3538 or email Resource [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.

    The Resource Conservation processed over 7,091 applications last year, with an average processing time of 5 business days. Staff are available at the Erie office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    Contact Information

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

  • Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work Near Superior

    Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work Near Superior

    Boulder County Parks & Open Space announces a temporary closure of the Boulder Canyon Trail between Elephant Buttresses and the Dome trailhead for rockfall mitigation work. Crews will be scaling loose rock and installing mesh netting along a 400-foot section of cliff face above the trail. The closure is expected to last approximately three weeks, weather permitting.

    The Public Works processed over 10,152 applications last year, with an average processing time of 8 business days. Staff are available at the Lafayette office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    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.

    Background

    Funding of $234,000 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 2025 budget session.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 63% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,228 responses from residents across the county.

  • Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election — Erie Area

    Voter Registration Deadline Approaching for June Primary Election — Erie Area

    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.

    Volunteers contributed over 7,570 hours to this program last year. The Human Services coordinates with 15 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    Funding of $257,000 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

    Eligible participants include Boulder County residents with household incomes at or below 40% of Area Median Income (AMI). For a family of four, this is approximately $102,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    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.

    Eligibility

    The Nederland Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 4,110 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    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.

  • Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway — August 2026

    Public Works Announces Niwot Road Median Closure Near Diagonal Highway — August 2026

    Boulder County Public Works announces a temporary median closure on Niwot Road near the CO-119 Diagonal Highway intersection for utility infrastructure improvements. The closure will affect left turns from Niwot Road onto the Diagonal Highway for approximately six weeks. A signed detour route will be in place.

    Funding of $51,000 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.

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

    How to Participate

    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.

    Data from the 2026 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 45% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 5,389 responses from residents across the county.

  • Boulder County Adopts $745 Million Budget for 2026 — Follow-Up Report

    Boulder County Adopts $745 Million Budget for 2026 — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    Public comment on this matter can be submitted through the Boulder County online portal, by email to Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience, 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.

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 23% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 2,828 responses from residents across the county.

    What You Need to Know

    Residents in the Niwot area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Sustainability, Climate Action & Resilience at (303) 441-9374 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    The Anne U. White open space property encompasses 1,219 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.