The Board of County Commissioners for Douglas County has taken a significant step towards the establishment of a new metropolitan district in the Franktown area, following a public hearing on September 23, 2025. The board approved guidelines for processing special district service plan applications, which will now undergo a thorough review process involving comments from referral agents and public hearings.

The proposed district, which is expected to encompass 37 residential lots and serve a population of approximately 111 residents, has been a topic of considerable debate. Initially, the Planning Commission recommended denial of the service plan due to concerns over financial viability and community need. However, after the applicant submitted a revised plan addressing these issues, the Planning Commission voted 5 to 2 in favor of the service plan, albeit with conditions to limit the use of eminent domain and restrict district revenue for developer fees.

The district is projected to generate revenue primarily through property taxes, with an estimated total mill levy cap of 70 mills. The initial debt service mill levy is set at 50 mills, with a 40-year term for debt repayment. The total authorized debt limit is $6 million, with anticipated improvements costing over $9 million.

Despite the Planning Commission's recommendation, the proposal has faced significant opposition from local residents and organizations, with over 700 signatures collected against the district. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impacts on the rural character of Franktown, groundwater resources, and the financial implications for future residents.

The board's decision to approve the service plan will depend on its compliance with nine criteria outlined in Colorado's revised statutes, which include considerations of economic feasibility and alignment with community needs. As the process moves forward, the board will continue to evaluate public input and the applicant's revisions to ensure that the proposed district serves the best interests of the Franktown community.