The Glenwood Springs City Council meeting on Thursday included an update on the search for a new council member following the upcoming departure of Shelley Kaup, as well as a resolution supporting local ballot measure 2024-21. The resolution, which passed by a 5-1 vote, supports a proposed 1-cent sales tax increase to fund infrastructure repairs in the city.
Councilor Jonathan Godes cast the lone vote against the resolution but did not comment on his opposition.
The ballot measure aims to extend the current half-a-cent sales tax, set to expire in 2026, while adding another half-a-cent for inflation. The combined 1-cent sales tax would fund road repairs, sewer upgrades, and other infrastructure improvements for the next 20 years. Tourists are expected to cover over 50% of the tax, reducing the financial burden on residents.
The funds generated by the 1-cent sales tax will be used to improve street conditions, enhancing safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike, according to the resolution. The funds will cover repairs to streets, alleys, and sidewalks, and also maintain water and sewer systems beneath roadways.
Glenwood Springs City Attorney Karl Hanlon also noted that the ballot measure would be located on the second page of the November ballot.
“It’s going to be ballot issue 2A, and it will be the last item on the second page of the ballot,” Hanlon said. “So please flip your ballot over, regardless of what you’re going to vote for, because local governments, which I’m fond of, are all on the second page this year.”
In addition to the ballot measure, the council discussed the process for filling the vacancy soon to be left by Councilor Shelley Kaup.
The council plans to advertise for the vacant position on Oct. 9, 16, and 23, with applications due by the end of October. A special meeting for interviews is scheduled for Nov. 6, which will be open to the public but will not include a public comment period. The council aims to appoint a new member during their regular meeting on Nov. 7.
Hanlon confirmed that the city charter requires the council to appoint a replacement within 30 days of the vacancy.
The council is next set to meet Oct. 3.