This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting.
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El Paso County is set to introduce a groundbreaking property tax prepayment program aimed at easing the financial burden on homeowners and business owners. During the Board of County Commissioners meeting on July 8, 2025, Treasurer Chuck Broerman unveiled a new initiative that allows property owners to pay their taxes in smaller, manageable installments throughout the year, rather than in one or two lump sums.
Currently, property owners in Colorado have limited options for paying their property taxes: a single payment due by April 30 or two payments by February 28 and April 15. Many residents have expressed difficulty in budgeting for these large payments, prompting the need for a more flexible solution. The new program, which is the first of its kind in the nation, will enable property owners to make monthly payments through a secure online portal, allowing them to better manage their cash flow.
The program will utilize a service called Escrow Tax, which allows payments via various methods, including e-checks and credit cards. This initiative is designed to benefit homeowners, particularly seniors on fixed incomes, and business owners who prefer predictable monthly expenses. Broerman emphasized that the program comes at no cost to the county, avoiding the financial burden of software upgrades and staffing increases that would have accompanied other proposed legislative changes.
In addition to the new prepayment option, Broerman reminded residents of existing programs that can help reduce property tax payments, such as the senior homestead exemption and disabled veteran exemptions. However, he cautioned that these programs may face funding challenges due to a potential state budget shortfall.
The prepayment program is expected to launch shortly, with property owners able to enroll through the treasurer's website. This innovative approach not only aims to alleviate financial stress for taxpayers but also positions El Paso County as a leader in property tax management solutions. As other states take notice, this initiative could pave the way for similar programs nationwide, enhancing financial flexibility for property owners across the country.
Converted from Board of County Commissioners Meeting 7-8-2025 meeting on July 08, 2025
Link to Full Meeting