Legislation Details

File #: 26-464    Version: 1
Type: Presentation Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 9/8/2026 In control: Board of County Commissioners Study Session
On agenda: 9/21/2026 Final action:
Title: 2:00 PM *Amendment to the 2018 Arapahoe County Comprehensive Plan to include Chapter V. Water Supply Element
Attachments: 1. Board Summary Report, 2. AC Decision Support Framework, 3. Presentation, 4. Water Supply Element, 5. Arapahoe County Water Supply Study, 6. BOCC Meeting Nov. 12, 2024
To: Board of County Commissioners

Through: Ceila Rethamel, Acting Director, Public Works and Development Department

Prepared By:
prepared
Loretta Daniel, Long Range Planning Program Manager, Public Works and Development
end

presenter
Presenter: Loretta Daniel, Long Range Planning Program Manager, Public Works and Development
end

Subject:
title
2:00 PM *Amendment to the 2018 Arapahoe County Comprehensive Plan to include Chapter V. Water Supply Element
end

Purpose and Request:
recommended action
The purpose of the study session is to present a proposed update to the 2018 Arapahoe County Comprehensive Plan specifically incorporating a new water supply element as mandated by recent state law. The proposed amendment builds on recommendations from the 2024 Water Supply Study and if adopted, would meet statutory requirements for a Water Supply Element to the Comprehensive Plan. Staff is seeking Board comments on the proposed Water Supply Element chapter and support for proceeding with the proposed amendment.
end

Alignment with Strategic Plan: Sustainable Growth and Infrastructure - Support environmentally responsible development and energy efficiency in county operations.

Background and Discussion: Senate Bill 24-174, Sustainable Affordable Housing Assistance (“the Act”), was passed by the legislature and became effective on May 30, 2024. The Act requires that, by December 31, 2026, local governments include a water supply element in their comprehensive plans, with mandatory updates every five years thereafter. The Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) oversees, guides, and enforces local government compliance regarding the new water supply element by providing technical assistance and reviewing jurisdictions’ water supply elements for statutory compliance.

The intent underlying the Act is to “encourage smarter land use, prevent sprawl, and ensure alignment between development and available water resources.” The state affords local jur...

Click here for full text