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Steamboat Springs school board backs resolution urging development of statewide K–12 funding measure
Summary
The Steamboat Springs School Board voted unanimously Jan. 26 to adopt a resolution supporting the development of a statewide ballot initiative to raise the TABOR cap on K–12 funding; the board asked staff to coordinate language and advocacy with statewide partners and local legislators.
The Steamboat Springs School Board voted unanimously Jan. 26 to adopt Resolution 2026‑01‑03, expressing support for work to develop a statewide ballot initiative intended to raise the TABOR cap on K–12 funding.
Board members said they support advancing district and statewide advocacy while reserving final judgment on any specific ballot language. "I'm asking you today to do a resolution in support of a ballot measure that will increase the cap on TABOR," said Kim Waldschmidt, SSEA president, during a presentation urging board support. After brief discussion about coordinating language with statewide groups and local legislators, Director Kevin Callahan moved to adopt the resolution, Leah seconded, and the motion passed on a recorded vote.
The resolution signals local backing for a measure the Colorado Education Association has been testing as part of an initiative commonly referred to in testimony as a "cut the ropes" effort to raise the TABOR funding cap that limits revenue available to public entities. Board members asked that the final draft align with other district and CASB advocacy efforts and indicated they expect the superintendent and staff to work with legislators where appropriate.
Board members raised several clarifying questions before the vote. Jane asked whether the Bell Policy Center proposal (a separate, income‑tax–based education funding idea) would conflict with the measure described; Kim Waldschmidt said she would research the relationship and report back. Leah and others encouraged coordination through CASB and the superintendent's office to ensure consistency across districts.
The motion to adopt Resolution 2026‑01‑03 was moved by Board Member Leah, seconded by Board Member Laura, and called by Clerk Deb Genesta. The recorded vote was unanimous (5–0). The board tabled detailed language work for follow-up coordination with the superintendent and supporting associations before public advocacy begins.
Next steps: staff will work with Ms. Waldschmidt and regional partners to review draft language and report back to the board; any final endorsement of a specific ballot text would come to the board for separate consideration.
