Boulder County Proposes New Tax to Fund Mental Health Services

Boulder County is set to vote on a significant ballot measure, known as Ballot Issue 1B, which aims to introduce a new sales and use tax to support mental health and substance use services. If approved, the measure would raise an estimated $15 million annually starting in the first full fiscal year of 2026. The proposed tax would be set at 0.15% and would last for three years.

The funds generated from this new tax are intended to address the unmet needs of various groups within the community, including youths, adults, families, unhoused individuals, and older adults who are at risk of or currently facing mental health and substance use disorders. Specifically, the revenue would be allocated towards providing mental health crisis services, suicide prevention and intervention programs, as well as treatment and recovery services for substance use issues. Additionally, the funds would support treatment services for unhoused individuals and assist in connecting people with appropriate community resources.

Support for the Measure

Proponents of Ballot Issue 1B argue that the tax is essential for maintaining critical programs and services that have been funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As those funds begin to expire, supporters believe that this new tax will provide the necessary financial support to ensure continuity in mental health services. They also emphasize that the additional funding would allow the county to evaluate the effectiveness of existing programs and potentially expand services to meet growing community needs.

Supporters stress that the proposal is designed to create lasting improvements in mental health care access and substance use treatment in Boulder County. They believe it is a proactive approach to addressing the mental health crisis affecting many residents, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.

Concerns and Opposition

Despite the support, some community members express skepticism about the potential impact of the proposed tax. Opponents argue that merely increasing funding may not lead to transformative changes within the county’s mental health system. They call for a more robust proposal that outlines specific strategies for utilizing the funds effectively to ensure real improvements in service delivery.

As Boulder County prepares for the upcoming vote, the community remains divided on the issue, with significant discussions surrounding the implications of the new tax on local residents. The outcome of this ballot measure could shape the future of mental health services in the area, addressing urgent needs while navigating concerns about the effectiveness of such funding initiatives.