Ballot initiatives for housing and fire protection

When we talk about the vitality of a community, it’s easy to focus on big-ticket issues like housing, transportation, or education. But often, it’s the local initiatives—those smaller, seemingly niche proposals—that have the most direct impact on our day-to-day lives.

Two such initiatives, currently on the ballot in Eagle County, deserve our attention: the Eagle River Fire Protection District’s proposed sales tax and the Town of Avon’s proposed construction use tax. These initiatives may not grab headlines like a presidential race or a high-profile state ballot initiative, but they are critical to maintaining and improving the quality of life we enjoy here in Eagle County.

The Eagle River Fire Protection District (ERFPD) has long been a cornerstone of public safety in our region, responding to everything from house fires and medical emergencies to large-scale incidents like wildfires. The proposed sales tax increase would provide the necessary funding to keep pace with growing demands on the department, which faces increasing costs due to inflation, aging infrastructure, and the need for more personnel and updated equipment.

It’s important to recognize that we live in a high-risk area for natural disasters, particularly wildfires. As climate change accelerates, the likelihood of more frequent and intense wildfire seasons grows, making fire protection and emergency response even more critical. The ERFPD’s ability to respond quickly and effectively is a matter of public safety, and the proposed sales tax would go directly toward ensuring that the district is equipped to meet these challenges.

The proposed sales tax would primarily fund Personnel Equipment and Infrastructure, and Wildfire Mitigation. It’s easy to overlook the importance of fire protection until you need it, but investing in this essential service ensures we’re ready for emergencies when they arise. A sales tax may seem like a small contribution, but the collective impact of these funds could be the difference between life and death in a fire or emergency.

In Avon, another local initiative is on the ballot: the proposed construction use tax. This tax would impose a levy on construction materials used in new developments or major renovations, with the revenue going directly toward maintaining and improving Avon’s housing infrastructure.

The funds Avon collects from the use tax will be specifically designated to be used for community housing and will help people of all income levels who live and work primarily in Eagle County in renting or purchasing homes in Avon. It also brings Avon to parity with neighboring towns that have a construction use tax.

Smart growth requires forward-thinking policies, and this proposed use tax is a way to ensure that Avon has the resources to maintain and grow its housing infrastructure. Rather than reacting to issues after they become problems, this tax provides proactive funding to ensure that Avon remains a desirable place to live, work, and play for years to come to help fund community housing.

By investing in local initiatives, we’re not just maintaining the status quo—we’re ensuring that our community continues to thrive in the face of challenges. We’re making sure that when the unexpected happens—whether it’s a wildfire or a flood—our emergency services are ready to respond. We’re ensuring that new growth enhances our community, rather than straining it.

These are investments in the safety, infrastructure, and sustainability of our community. Voting for these initiatives is a vote for the future of our valley—a future where we are prepared for emergencies, and where we invest in our community.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, the regional chamber of commerce. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com