County Commissioners aim to dissolve outdated public improvement district in neighborhood

In the heart of Larimer County, a significant discussion unfolded during the recent Land Use Hearing, where county officials addressed the fate of a long-dormant special district. The meeting, held on June 9, 2025, focused on a Public Improvement District (PID) that has not functioned for decades, raising questions about its relevance and the financial implications for local residents.

County officials revealed that this PID, established in 1970, has not collected taxes since 1993. The last recorded mill levy was set to zero in 1984, and any remaining funds were exhausted by 2017. As officials described, the district has become a "zombie PID," existing on paper but lacking the capacity to serve its intended purpose. The discussion centered on the necessity of formally dissolving this outdated district to clear the way for more effective local governance.

Frank, a key speaker at the meeting, emphasized that even if the PID were to remain, any future road projects requiring significant funding would still necessitate a public vote due to Colorado's taxpayer bill of rights. This means that residents would need to approve any new taxes, regardless of the district's status. The officials clarified that the regular maintenance of roads would continue unaffected, but major reconstruction would require community support and funding through new mechanisms.

Katie, another presenter, highlighted the historical context of the PID's creation, noting that it was established without a public vote and under different legal requirements than those in place today. She explained that the current statutes have evolved, and if residents wish to pursue substantial improvements, they would need to consider forming either a new Public Improvement District or a Local Improvement District (LID). The distinction between these two options lies in their funding structures: a PID typically involves a mill levy for ongoing maintenance, while an LID is a one-time fee for specific projects.

As the meeting progressed, commissioners engaged in discussions about the implications of dissolving the PID and the potential for future community-driven projects. The overarching sentiment was one of clarity and progress, as officials sought to streamline local governance and empower residents to make decisions about their neighborhood's infrastructure.

In conclusion, the hearing served as a pivotal moment for Larimer County, addressing the need to modernize outdated systems and ensure that residents have the tools necessary to manage their community's needs effectively. As the county moves forward, the focus will remain on fostering a collaborative environment where residents can actively participate in shaping their neighborhood's future.