Monte Vista council approves first-reading adoption of Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code, 3–2

Monte Vista’s City Council voted 3–2 on May 7 to approve Ordinance 937, adopting the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code on first reading.

The ordinance was presented to council as a response to state guidance after a legislative attempt to delay adoption failed. Staff recommended the city incorporate the wildfire resiliency provisions into the land use code; supporters said it would better position the city for future regulation and resilience planning. One council member noted the measure could be adopted and the city could decide later whether and how to enforce it.

Opponents raised concerns about enforcement capacity, potential costs to builders and whether homeowners insurance premiums could rise as a result. A council member asked whether the city has staff and inspection capacity to implement the new requirements; staff said they would return with enforcement details and information about insurance impacts at the second reading.

The motion to adopt Ordinance 937 passed on a 3–2 roll-call vote, with Councillors Bradshaw and Noono recorded as voting no. Council members and staff said the ordinance will require a second reading and additional follow-up information before final adoption and enforcement decisions are made.

What’s next: staff will return with more information on enforcement mechanics, estimated costs for builders, and any implications for homeowners insurance in time for the second reading.