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

    Sunshine Canyon 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.

    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.

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 12% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 2,423 responses from residents across the county.

    Resources

    According to James Rodriguez, director of Public Works, this program served 12% more residents in 2025 compared to the previous year. “We’re seeing unprecedented demand from communities across Boulder County, particularly in Superior and the surrounding area,” James Rodriguez said.

    The Walker Ranch open space property encompasses 1,387 acres and features 9 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

  • $6.3 Million Awarded for Affordable Housing and Human Services Projects — Nederland Area

    $6.3 Million Awarded for Affordable Housing and Human Services Projects — Nederland Area

    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.

    Environmental review of the project area near Baseline Road found 11 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Community Planning & Permitting worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    The Board of County Commissioners will review progress on this initiative at their June 15 business meeting. Agenda items and supporting documents are posted on the Boulder County website 72 hours before each meeting.

    Contact Information

    The Mud Lake open space property encompasses 2,487 acres and features 13 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    Volunteers contributed over 7,790 hours to this program last year. The Community Planning & Permitting coordinates with 20 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

  • Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County — Follow-Up Report

    Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    Environmental review of the project area near Arapahoe Road found 9 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Resource Conservation worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    Safety data from the Louisville area shows 34 reported incidents in the past 12 months, a 28% 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.

    Related Programs

    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 1949 county employees across 50 departments and offices.

    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 $42,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Next Steps

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 21% of properties in the Louisville 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 12 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.

  • Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review — Nederland Area

    Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review — Nederland Area

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed comprehensive updates to the Land Use Code’s site plan review process. Key changes include new stormwater management requirements, updated landscape standards, enhanced wildfire mitigation provisions, and expanded public notification procedures.

    According to Sarah Mitchell, director of Housing & Human Services, this program served 90% 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,” Sarah Mitchell said.

    The project includes improvements along Coal Creek Canyon Road between Niwot and the intersection with Foothills Highway. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2026 with completion expected within 12 months.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Residents in the Niwot area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Housing & Human Services at (303) 441-9578 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    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.

    Community Impact

    Environmental review of the project area near Coal Creek Canyon Road found 9 sensitive species and 2 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Housing & Human Services worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    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.

  • Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — Jamestown Area

    Parks & Open Space Welcomes New Director — Jamestown Area

    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.

    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 $87,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Wildfire risk mapping conducted by Wildfire Partners shows that 22% 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.

    Timeline

    Residents in the Superior area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Parks & Open Space at (303) 441-6435 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    A community information session will be held at the Superior library on Thursday, May 7 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.

  • Hygiene Community Briefing: Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review

    Hygiene Community Briefing: Community Planning Proposes Updates to Land Use Code Site Plan Review

    The Boulder County Community Planning & Permitting Department has proposed comprehensive updates to the Land Use Code’s site plan review process. Key changes include new stormwater management requirements, updated landscape standards, enhanced wildfire mitigation provisions, and expanded public notification procedures.

    Volunteers contributed over 2,468 hours to this program last year. The Parks & Open Space coordinates with 20 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    A community information session will be held at the Gunbarrel library on Thursday, May 14 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.

    Details

    The Caribou Ranch open space property encompasses 1,523 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.

    Climate considerations are central to this effort. Boulder County’s 2025 Climate Action Plan sets targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 21% below 2005 levels by 2030. This project contributes to those goals through energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy integration, and reduced vehicle miles traveled.

    Timeline

    Affordable housing remains the top priority identified in the 2025 Community Survey. Boulder County’s Worthy Cause program has funded 1,794 affordable housing units since its inception, with 160 additional units in the development pipeline.

  • Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County — Follow-Up Report

    Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Now in Effect for Unincorporated Boulder County — Follow-Up Report

    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.

    Residents in the Longmont area should note that service boundaries may differ from city limits. For properties in unincorporated Boulder County, contact Public Works at (303) 441-8107 to verify eligibility and requirements.

    Water quality monitoring at 14 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.

    Background

    Funding of $468,000 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.

    The Longmont Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,126 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    Details

    Environmental review of the project area near Foothills Highway found 6 sensitive species and 1 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Public Works worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

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

  • Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — April 2024

    Commissioners Proclaim March as Women’s History Month — April 2024

    The Boulder County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed March 2026 as Women’s History Month, recognizing the contributions of women leaders, activists, and community builders throughout Boulder County’s history. Special events and exhibitions will be held at libraries and community centers throughout the month.

    The Resource Conservation processed over 8,061 applications last year, with an average processing time of 14 business days. Staff are available at the Erie office Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

    According to Michael Kowalski, director of Resource Conservation, this program served 64% 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,” Michael Kowalski said.

    Background

    For questions about this program, contact Michael Kowalski at Resource Conservation: (303) 441-7673 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.

    Funding of $170,000 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.

    Next Steps

    The project includes improvements along Nelson Road between Erie and the intersection with Niwot Road. Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2026 with completion expected within 6 months.

    Data from the 2024 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 64% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 7,303 responses from residents across the county.

  • Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work — December 2026

    Boulder Canyon Trail Closure Due to Rockfall Mitigation Work — December 2026

    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 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.

    Background

    Volunteers contributed over 5,654 hours to this program last year. The Clerk & Recorder coordinates with 8 nonprofit partner organizations throughout Boulder County to deliver services.

    The application deadline is July 16, 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 30 business days.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The Legion Park open space property encompasses 675 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 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.

    The Betasso Preserve open space property encompasses 1,927 acres and features 4 miles of multi-use trails. Seasonal wildlife closures may apply from December 15 through July 15 to protect nesting raptors and elk calving areas.

    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 $103,000 per year. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Background

    Environmental review of the project area near 63rd Street found 4 sensitive species and 3 wetland areas requiring mitigation. The Assessor’s Office worked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife to develop a habitat conservation plan.

    The Louisville Senior Center offers related programming including free legal consultations, tax preparation assistance, health screenings, and social activities. Over 2,959 seniors participated in center programs last year.

    What You Need to Know

    Data from the 2025 Boulder County Community Survey shows that 82% of respondents rated this service as “important” or “very important.” The survey, conducted every two years, received 6,495 responses from residents across the county.