Committee backs sending a resolution supporting Colorado Proposition 308 to full council

Shani, speaking for Aurora Water, recommended that the committee support a resolution endorsing Colorado Proposition 308, a statewide ballot measure that would dedicate a portion of existing sales-tax revenue from sporting goods and outdoor recreation equipment to conservation, watershed restoration, forest management and wildfire mitigation. "So for Aurora Water's perspective, this is a very smart investment," she said, noting that healthy forests and watersheds reduce treatment costs and protect drinking-water reliability.

Shani described the measure as structured to retain and dedicate existing revenue rather than create a new tax or increase existing taxes. The committee sought clarification about next steps and process; Liz explained that a committee endorsement would be forwarded to the full City Council for a majority vote.

Chair Lawson then asked whether the committee supports moving a resolution to full council. Co-chair Jackson, Council member Wiles and Chair Lawson each voiced support. The committee did not take a formal roll-call vote in the meeting transcript beyond members verbally indicating support; staff said they would carry the committee’s endorsement to full council.

Shani also reported a productive site visit with Representative Carter at the Benny Water Purification Facility and discussed how a prior revegetation bill could inform prospective statewide action; she said staff will monitor developments and report back.

Why it matters: Prop 308 would create a dedicated funding source aimed at reducing wildfire risk and protecting drinking-water supplies — an outcome Aurora Water staff described as directly tied to utility resilience and long-term cost avoidance. The committee’s decision to forward endorsement to full council starts the formal municipal advocacy process.