Lakewood council faces fierce debate over Tabor elimination

During a recent city council meeting, significant discussions centered around a proposed resolution regarding the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) and its implications for Lakewood residents. The meeting highlighted contrasting perspectives from council members and community members regarding the potential permanent removal of TABOR revenue limits.

Councilor Stuart clarified that the process leading to the resolution was primarily driven by the Budget and Audit Board, with minimal staff involvement. This was emphasized to assure community members that the recommendations were thoroughly vetted. Councilor Cruz expressed gratitude for outreach efforts aimed at making the survey accessible to Spanish-speaking voters, underscoring the importance of community engagement in the decision-making process.

Public comments revealed a divide among residents. Kip Kolkmeyer, a community member, voiced strong support for the resolution, arguing that it empowers voters and reflects their desires as indicated by a recent consultant's report. He emphasized that the lack of public outrage suggests broad support for the initiative.

Conversely, several residents, including Wendy Schrader and Natalie Minton, expressed vehement opposition to the resolution. Schrader criticized the timing of the survey and the council's decision-making process, arguing that the permanent removal of TABOR protections undermines taxpayer rights established since 1992. Minton echoed these sentiments, asserting that the proposed measure would strip future voters of their consent regarding tax revenue decisions.

The council ultimately moved to adopt the resolution, with some members predicting a closer vote in the upcoming November ballot than the current council discussion reflected. The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over fiscal policy and taxpayer rights in Lakewood, highlighting the complexities of local governance and community engagement.