CENTRAL CITY - The Gilpin County Board of County Commissioners met for a work session on August 19, 2025, to review ballot language, state policy, housing needs, and employee benefits. No official action was taken, as work sessions are designed for discussion only.

Lodging tax ballot measure

Paralegal Sarah Baciak presented draft ballot language to raise the county lodging tax from 2% to 6%. The increase applies only in unincorporated Gilpin County for stays under 30 days, including hotels, Airbnbs, and private campsites. State and federal campgrounds are exempt.

Commissioners noted that voters often see the word “tax” and vote no without reading further. They discussed whether “4% additional lodging tax” could be bolded for clarity, but Baciak cautioned that ballot formatting is highly regulated, and changes must go through the County attorney.

Once approved, residents will be invited to submit pro and con statements for the voter “blue book.” After formal adoption, the County cannot spend money to promote the measure, though a Q&A page is posted on the County website to provide neutral information.

Policy matters update

Lobbyist Katie Hancock briefed commissioners on the state’s fiscal situation, noting revenues will shrink by about $1.2 million due to HR 1, which President Donald Trump called the “big, beautiful bill.” 

Governor Jared Polis has called a special legislative session to work through the fallout.

Hancock said the State is trying to manage debts while preparing for cuts, and the focus will likely be on balancing a slimmer budget across all departments. 

She explained that the financial strain could affect how much funding counties receive for programs, grants, and mandated services. 

Commissioners discussed the ripple effect, acknowledging that a tighter state budget often shifts responsibilities down to local governments.

The update also touched on timing. Hancock said decisions will move quickly once the legislature reconvenes, and counties should be prepared to adjust priorities depending on which cuts or funding reallocations pass.

Regional housing needs assessment

Community Development Director Jamie Boyle presented the Denver Regional Council of Governments’ (DRCOG) Regional Housing Needs Assessment. The study projects 223,000 new homes will be needed across the Denver area by 2032 and 500,000 by 2050.

For Gilpin County, the forecast calls for 128 new units by 2032, with 75 of them needed for households earning below 50% of the area median income. 

Boyle noted that while the County is issuing permits for about 24 new homes annually, most are single-family builds priced over $500,000. 

“The production of affordable units is not keeping pace with where we need to be,” she said.

More than half of Gilpin renters are considered cost-burdened, paying at least 30% of their income on housing. Severely cost-burdened renters, those paying more than 50%, have increased from 24% in 2000 to 38% today.

Commissioner Susan Berumen supported opting in to DRCOG’s study, calling the dashboard a “great tool for staff.” Commissioners agreed to move the matter forward for action at a regular meeting.

Employee benefits review

Human Resources Director Chanda Johnson outlined the ounty’s insurance and disability programs. 

Short-term disability covers up to 60% of wages for about 10 weeks, with six employees using it in 2024 and three so far in 2025. Long-term disability begins when short-term coverage ends and can last up to 30 years.

Johnson called long-term care coverage the “least used benefit we offer.” The program provides $2,000 per month for up to three years, but it costs the County about $30,000 a year. To date, there has been only one claim, which was denied. She suggested making it optional and employee-paid to save costs.

Commissioners were also informed that health insurance premiums will increase by 20% next year, following a shortfall of about $300,000 in claims. Dental premiums will increase 15%, while vision will decrease 10%.

Legislative priorities with CCI

Commissioners showed interest in measures that would allow counties to levy excise taxes with voter approval, expand protections for elected officials, and create flexibility in hiring electrical inspectors. They also debated proposals on open records, zoning enforcement, and Proposition 123 (Affordable Housing) reforms.

The work session adjourned at 2 p.m.