FAQs – Issues A & B

1. Why is RWB requesting increased funding?
The District is at a critical crossroads, with expenses already surpassing revenue. On top of this, new financial challenges have emerged due to Colorado House Bill 24B-1001, signed in September 2024. This bill reduces assessment rates for most residential and nonresidential properties over the next few years and imposes a cap on annual revenue increases. The anticipated impact is a reduced property tax that RWB will collect. 

2. Why is RWB asking for funding now?
RWB has not requested additional revenue from taxpayers since 2006, and we intend for this to be a long-term, generational investment. However, recent legislative changes—specifically House Bill 24B-1001—cut RWB’s residential assessment rate from 7.2% to 6.15% and capped annual revenue growth at 5.25%. The new 5.25% revenue growth cap applies even though RWB’s voters previously waived a similar 5.5% cap on yearly revenue growth imposed by the Colorado Constitution (TABOR).   Without the passage of Issues A and B, RWB is anticipated to lose $5,150,950 in funding over the next 5 years.

3. What is included in this funding request?
This request seeks to increase the revenue by raising the mill levy from 9 to 13 mills and eliminating the 5.25% cap on annual revenue growth. RWB will use the funding to maintain current service levels, hire and retain qualified firefighters, and maintain, purchase and replace equipment and gear as needed.

4. How does RWB’s funding compare to neighboring fire districts?
RWB’s current funding is lower than that of surrounding fire districts. For instance, Summit Fire and EMS operates at 13 mills, Northwest Fire (serving Fairplay and Alma) at 12.23 mills, and Mountain View Fire (Boulder) at 16.24 mills. Our funding request aligns with these districts, ensuring that RWB can provide similar levels of service and protection.

5. How will this impact me as a property owner?
For property owners, the increase to 13 mills translates to approximately $26 per year per $100,000 of assessed property value, or about $260 per year per $1 million in assessed property value.

6. How can I learn more about Issues A and B?
For more information on this election, visit RWB Fire Election Information.