Pueblo Co. officials discuss ballot measure to opt out of Tax-Payer BOR

Pueblo County commissioners had a special session on Wednesday to discuss a potential ballot measure that would affect residents’ taxes.

The proposed measure claims it would fund a series of community projects but would do so without raising any new taxes.

The plan, laid out in the ballot measure, would have voters opt out of the Tax-Payer Bill of Rights.

The opt out would allow the county to keep more than $16 million in tax incentives that otherwise would be paid to three businesses in the county.

“If this passes, we’ll be able to invest in a long list of community enhancement projects, transportation, road bridges, parks and redevelopment projects. Items like the Riverwalk and new roads, but if it fails, voters will get an average of $15 in a tax refund next year,” said Sal Pace, Pueblo County commissioner.

The board did not vote on the measure at Wednesday’s meeting.

All ballot measures are due at the County Clerk’s Office by September 7.