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Boulder council sends residential vacancy excise tax to ballot after 7–1 vote
Summary
Council adopted ordinance 87‑59 by a 7–1 vote to refer a residential vacancy excise tax (homes occupied 183 days or less) to the Nov. 3 ballot. Supporters said it would discourage speculative vacancies and raise revenue for city services; one council member voted no.
The Boulder City Council voted 7–1 to refer a residential vacancy excise tax (ordinance 87‑59) to the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot. The measure would impose an excise on homes occupied fewer than 183 days per year and include exemptions and an implementation ordinance to define administration and enforcement details.
Council members who supported the measure said it would discourage speculative second‑home holdings that reduce housing availability and generate additional revenue for general city services. Jackie Richardson, a resident who addressed council during the public hearing, said the vacancy tax polled well and "cities around the world have shown that vacancy taxes can help return homes to the market and generate revenue for affordable housing programs." Councilmember Speer cast the sole no vote during the roll call.
Staff will return to council with ordinance language to define exemptions and enforcement mechanics, and if voters approve the measure on Nov. 3, staff said they will implement the excise with appropriate administrative rules.
