Boulder proposes 13 layoffs in 2027 budget
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Boulder again proposed layoffs in its 2027 budget as slowing revenues force millions of dollars in cuts.
Why it matters: Years of hiring freezes and vacancy cuts are no longer enough to balance the city's budget.
Driving the news: City manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde's proposed $552.6 million budget calls for laying off 13 employees as Boulder works to close a $6.3 million General Fund gap.
- Another 11 vacant positions would be eliminated, bringing the total reduction to 24 positions.
- Twelve employees in term-limited jobs will exit when their contracts expire this year or in 2027.
- The city would also keep 8.5 additional vacant positions unfilled until 2028.
State of play: Leaner staffing means residents will see some services scaled back or eliminated, including the photo radar van program and child watch at East Boulder Community Center.
- Scott Carpenter Pool would have reduced hours.
- Spruce Pool would remain open in 2027 using one-time money, but funding as of now runs out for 2028.
Follow the money: Boulder is turning to new and higher fees and taxes as traditional revenue sources flatten.
- The city will collect its new Transportation Maintenance Fee from property owners in 2027, generating up to $6.4 million annually for pavement, bridges, sidewalks and other transportation maintenance.
- The city's recreational marijuana tax would rise from 3.5% to 5.5%, offsetting revenue Boulder previously received through the state. Marijuana business licensing fees would also increase.
What we're watching: Boulder also has some big-ticket expenses looming.
- The city plans $135.4 million in capital spending in 2027, up nearly 20% from 2026, on projects including a new Fire Station 2, East Boulder Community Center renovations and the South Boulder Creek flood project.
- Longer-term infrastructure costs are much higher: Boulder is asking voters this November to authorize up to $400 million in debt for recreation centers, fire stations, a new public safety building and other aging city facilities.
What they're saying: "Decisions that impact people are never easy," Rivera-Vandermyde said in a statement.
- "At the same time, during challenging times, we must ensure that our constrained resources are going to the services our community counts on most."
The bottom line: Boulder expects sales and use tax revenue to remain relatively flat while property tax growth slows, forcing the city to cut spending and seek new revenue.