Voters across La Plata County could see higher sales and property taxes this year if several ballot initiatives on the November ballot are approved.
Two municipalities, two fire districts and the county are asking residents to support a mix of tax increases. The impact on taxpayers would vary depending on where they live.
In total, nine distinct ballots will be mailed Oct. 10, reflecting differences among municipalities, unincorporated areas and special districts.
If all three sales tax proposals pass, Bayfield residents would see the steepest increases. The town’s current sales tax rate is 7.9%, including state and county taxes. That rate would climb to 10.9% on most goods and services if the town of Bayfield, La Plata County and Upper Pine River Fire Protection District all receive a sales tax increase.
“I know a lot of people are suffering and can’t afford another 1% taken out of their paychecks,” said Bayfield resident Lynne Rivera. “They’re just getting by, and barely. There are a lot of people out there that can’t afford that – they just can’t.”
To put the change in perspective, a $20 pizza in Bayfield would rise from $21.58 to $22.18 after taxes. Similarly, a $150 monthly martial arts class would increase from $161.85 to $166.35.
Residents of Durango face only one potential sales tax increase – the one proposed by the county – which would raise the city’s existing sales tax from 8.4% to 9.4%.
Voters in Durango and unincorporated parts of the Durango Fire Protection District are being asked to approve a 4.5 mill property tax increase.
The increase would cost the owner of a $500,000 home an additional $152 per year in property taxes, and the owner of a $900,000 home an additional $274.
Here’s a breakdown of the sales tax and property tax proposals on various ballots this November across La Plata County:
La Plata County is proposing a 1% sales tax that would raise an estimated $18 million in the first year, according to county projections.
County officials say declining oil and gas revenues, combined with inflation and recent cuts in state and federal revenue streams, have put the county in a precarious position that will require cuts across all departments and services.
If passed, officials say the tax would bridge the funding gap and help pay for roads and bridges, public safety services, disaster response and other county services.
The Durango Fire Protection District and the city of Durango are asking voters to approve a coordinated 4.5 mill property tax increase to build and staff a new fire station in the Three Springs subdivision – among “other expenses.”
District officials say population growth and a surge in emergency call volume have created a need for additional facilities. The measures would add 4.45 mills, generating an estimated $5.75 million annually starting in 2026.
Both city and district voters must approve the increase for it to take effect.
The Upper Pine River Fire Protection District is asking voters to approve a 1% sales tax to fund staffing, training, equipment and station improvements.
If approved, the measure is projected to raise $490,000 in its first year.
The tax would apply to most purchases within the district but exclude groceries, prescription drugs, diapers, feminine hygiene products, farm equipment, school-related activities and other categories exempt under state law.
The town of Bayfield is proposing a 1% sales tax increase, projected to generate $600,000 annually.
Unlike the La Plata County proposal, the revenue would be dedicated specifically to park improvements and recreation projects, including construction of a new gymnasium and trail maintenance.
The measure includes a sunset clause and would remain in effect from 2026 through 2045.
Bayfield town officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The town of Bayfield is also asking voters to approve a 4% accommodations tax on short-term lodging such as hotels, campgrounds and vacation rentals, with the cost being passed on to visitors.
If approved, the tax is expected to generate about $200,000 annually, earmarked for affordable and community housing, economic development and other related municipal expenses.
jbowman@durangoherald.com
