Recap of Pitkin County, Aspen ballot measures

Ballots for Colorado voters will begin to mail on Oct. 11, presenting decisions from the presidential race down to local matters, like county commissioners. For Pitkin County and Aspen, local ballot measures cover crucial topics, including affordable housing, airport development, and cultural funding.

Pitkin County ballot measures

Question 1A: Proposed Property Tax for Affordable Housing

This measure introduces a 1.5 mill property tax over 25 years, projected to generate $8.5 million annually. The funds would bolster services such as mental health care, affordable housing support, and senior services, providing essential resources to vulnerable populations.

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Supporters advocate for the tax, emphasizing the need for increased funding to meet rising costs and growing demands for services. They argue it would strengthen community support systems, especially in areas like housing and mental health, which are increasingly critical in Pitkin County.

Opponents, however, worry about the added tax burden, particularly given the area’s high living costs. They question whether existing funds could be better managed instead of resorting to higher taxes and express concerns about long-term financial impacts.

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Question 1B: Pitkin County Solid Waste Center Expansion Bonds

This measure seeks approval to issue up to $22 million in bonds — repayable through landfill revenues, with no new taxes. The funds would expand the Solid Waste Center, allowing for enhanced landfill, composting, and recycling capabilities to meet future waste management needs.

Proponents believe the center’s expansion is crucial as it nears capacity, warning that failure to upgrade could lead to environmental and operational issues. They stress that the bond is necessary to align with the county’s sustainability goals and would not burden taxpayers directly.

Critics voice concerns over the incurred debt and question whether alternatives, such as waste reduction or regional partnerships, have been fully explored before committing to expansion. They argue for a more efficient approach to managing waste.

Question 1C: Airport Layout Plan Reaffirmation

This measure asks voters to reaffirm Pitkin County’s authority through the Home Rule Charter to approve and implement a new layout plan for Aspen-Pitkin County Airport. The plan would bring the airport into compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety regulations by improving runway separation and width for modern aircraft.

Supporters argue that the upgrades are necessary to maintain FAA compliance for funding and ensure passenger safety. They highlight that improvements would accommodate newer, more efficient aircraft while reducing risks.

Opponents express concerns about environmental impacts and increased air traffic that could result from the reconfiguration. They also argue that significant changes to the airport should involve more community input and thorough evaluation before proceeding.

Question 200: Airport Expansion and Relocation Restrictions

This citizen-initiated measure proposes amending the Pitkin County Home Rule Charter to require voter approval for major expansions or relocations of the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport runway. It aims to prevent large-scale airport development without direct public input.

Supporters of Question 200 believe airport growth could have serious repercussions for the community, particularly concerning growth, noise, pollution, and the area’s rural character. They argue that residents should have a say in projects that affect quality of life, traffic, and housing demands.

Opponents, including local officials, fear this measure could hinder necessary upgrades, complicating the airport’s ability to meet safety, capacity, and environmental standards, resulting in a lack of FAA funding. They argue that requiring voter approval for every significant change would delay critical improvements.

City of Aspen ballot measures

Issue 2C: Extension of Wheeler Opera House Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT)

This measure asks voters to extend the 0.5% real estate transfer tax that funds the Wheeler Opera House. The tax, which applies to real estate transactions in Aspen, provides crucial funding for maintaining and operating this historic venue.

Supporters point to the tax’s importance in keeping the Wheeler Opera House operational, enabling it to continue hosting performances and community programs that enrich Aspen’s cultural scene. They note that the tax primarily affects real estate buyers and sellers, without imposing additional burdens on residents.

Opponents are concerned about extending the tax, suggesting it could discourage real estate transactions and negatively impact the local economy. They argue that the city should explore other funding methods or prioritize different community needs.

Issue 2D: Extension of Real Estate Transfer and Sales Taxes for Housing and Transportation

This measure proposes extending the existing 1% real estate transfer tax and 0.45% sales tax, which fund affordable housing and transportation initiatives in Aspen. It aims to address rising costs and growing demand for these services.

Proponents argue that extending the taxes is vital for maintaining and expanding affordable housing in a city struggling with skyrocketing real-estate prices. They believe the taxes will provide the necessary resources to develop workforce housing and options for lower-income residents. Furthermore, they emphasize the importance of improving public transportation to reduce traffic and promote sustainability.

Opponents worry about the potential burden these taxes could place on residents and businesses, particularly in light of Aspen’s already high cost of living. They suggest exploring alternative funding options rather than relying on taxes that could exacerbate affordability issues or deter investment.