To: Board of County Commissioners
Through: N/A
Prepared By:
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Michelle Halstead, Director, Commissioners' Office
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presenter
Presenter: Ed Bowditch and Jennifer Cassell, Bowditch & Cassell Public Affairs
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Subject:
title
1:00 PM *State Lobbyist Update
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Purpose and Request:
recommended action
The purpose of this study session is to receive an update from the county's lobbyist on the potential special session being considered by the General Assembly and seek direction for outcomes/actions.
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Background and Discussion: At the end of the 2024 Legislative Session, the General Assembly adopted SB24-233, which would implement property tax reductions to residential and commercial rates. Arapahoe County secured specific language within SB24-233 to address the unique challenges encountered by TABOR-limited counties. The legislation was framed as an alternative to two statewide measures - Initiative 50 and 108 - which remain on the ballot. Proponents believe these measures will provide needed property tax relief, while opponents note both measures would negatively impact state and local government budgets.
Within this context, there have been discussions among various stakeholders about the potential for a special legislative session, which would seek additional property tax reductions in exchange for withdrawing these two initiatives from the November ballot and limiting future tax initiatives. Please see the linked article for additional information (attached).
Bowditch & Cassell Public Affairs will provide additional information on the potential for a special session and seek direction from the commissioners as to key considerations for lobbying activities.
Fiscal Impact: TBD.
Alternatives: The Board could defer to statewide associations such as Colorado Counties, Inc. (CCI) and Counties and Commissioners Acting Together (CCAT) to represent interests.
Alignment with Strategic Plan:
?Be fiscally sustainable
?Provide essentia...
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