City Finance Committee Reports July Sales Tax Revenue Increase of $1.4M

The Management & Finance Policy Committee Meeting held on August 7, 2025, in Aurora City, Colorado, focused primarily on the city's sales tax revenue and its implications for the upcoming budget.

During the meeting, it was reported that Aurora collected $25.4 million in sales tax for July, marking an increase of $1.4 million compared to the previous year. This figure aligns with the city's 2025 budget expectations and reflects a 4.7% increase from June of the prior year. The committee discussed adjustments to the revenue projections based on new taxpayer data that emerged after the initial forecasts were made. A significant new taxpayer operating near Denver International Airport has contributed to this positive trend, prompting a revision in the sales tax projections for the 2026 budget.

Despite the increase in sales tax revenue, concerns were raised about the auto use tax, which has not performed as well as anticipated. The committee noted a loss of $1.6 million in auto use tax revenue, exceeding earlier projections. This decline has led to a downward adjustment in that revenue category, which offsets some of the gains from sales tax.

Overall, the discussions highlighted a cautious optimism regarding the city's financial outlook, with adjustments being made to ensure accurate budget planning moving forward. The committee members expressed satisfaction with the current sales tax trajectory, while remaining vigilant about the challenges posed by the auto use tax.