Recap of Pitkin County, Aspen ballot measures

Editor’s note: This story has been updated to accurately reflect Aspen Ballot Measures 2C and 2A.

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

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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.

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.

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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.

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 2B: Extension of Existing 0.45% Sales Tax Affordable Housing and Day Care

Ballot Issue 2B proposes extending the existing 0.45% sales tax dedicated to affordable housing and child care. The tax, first approved in 2010, is set to expire in 2040. If extended, it would continue through 2050, ensuring ongoing funding for these critical services. 

The tax supports the development, maintenance, and operation of affordable housing for Aspen’s workforce and provides financial assistance for local childcare services.

Proponents argue that extending the tax is crucial to maintaining Aspen’s social and economic fabric, allowing workers to live closer to their jobs and ensuring that families can afford child care. 

Critics, however, question the long-term financial impact on residents and tourists alike, though there has been broad support for the measure historically.

Issue 2C: Imposition of a Use Tax on Motor Vehicles

Ballot Measure 2C proposes reclassifying the existing 2.4% sales tax on motor vehicles to a lower 2.1% use tax. This new tax would apply to the same vehicle transactions but at a reduced rate. 

The revenue generated from this use tax would be directed specifically toward road maintenance, bridges, and other transit-related infrastructure. If the measure doesn’t pass, the current 2.4% sales tax on vehicle purchases will remain in place.

Proponents of the measure argue that it would ensure all vehicle owners contribute equally to the upkeep of local transportation systems, regardless of where the vehicle was purchased. 

Opponents, however, raised concerns about the potential burden on residents purchasing cars outside Aspen and the fairness of retroactive tax enforcement.

Issue 2A: 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.