Boulder City Council Debates Behavioral Health Tax Proposals Ahead of County Vote

The Boulder City Council's recent study session on August 2, 2025, spotlighted the urgent need for a behavioral health tax, igniting a passionate debate among council members. The discussion was primarily driven by a proposal from Boulder County to implement a new tax aimed at addressing significant gaps in mental health services.

Mayor Aaron Brockett opened the conversation by expressing concerns about the proposed tax's timeline and its potential impact. He emphasized the need for a transformative approach to funding, citing Larimer County's successful implementation of a similar tax that resulted in new facilities to meet community needs. Brockett urged caution, suggesting that the council might consider postponing the proposal until 2026 to ensure a well-rounded plan that includes input from all stakeholders.

Council member Matt Benjamin echoed these sentiments, highlighting the vast $100 million need for behavioral health services in the community. He criticized the proposed $15 million tax as insufficient for achieving meaningful change, advocating for a more comprehensive strategy that would involve extensive community engagement over the next several months.

Concerns about the tax's structure were also raised. Council member Mark Wallach pointed out the lack of polling data supporting the tax's viability and expressed skepticism about the community's willingness to accept a sales tax increase. He called for a clear understanding of how the funds would be allocated and governed, reflecting a broader distrust stemming from past funding decisions.

Despite the apprehensions, some council members, like Council member Nicole Spear, argued for the urgency of addressing behavioral health needs, especially in light of impending state and federal funding cuts. Spear noted that behavioral health has emerged as a top concern in community polling, suggesting that immediate action could yield long-term benefits.

The session concluded with a consensus that while the need for funding is critical, the proposal requires further refinement to ensure it meets the community's needs effectively. The council's discussions underscored the delicate balance between urgency and thorough planning, as they navigate the complexities of funding mental health services in Boulder County. The next steps will involve continued dialogue with county officials and community stakeholders to shape a proposal that can garner broad support.