Residents of the Rye Fire Protection District will see a new ballot question—Issue 7B—on the November 2026 election. The measure asks voters to approve an increase of 11.652 mills to the district’s property‑tax levy, generating roughly $1,098,568.97 in the first full fiscal year and continuing for a ten‑year period.
What the levy would fund
The additional revenue is earmarked for general district purposes, primarily to support emergency‑services operations. According to the district’s proposal, the funds may be used for staffing, equipment, training, and other essential services that keep the community safe. Any investment earnings on the collected revenue would also be retained for district use.
Timeline and duration
The levy would begin with the 2026 property‑tax year, with collections starting in 2027. It would remain in effect through the 2035 tax year, with the final collection occurring in 2036. After that, the authority to levy the additional 11.652 mills would expire unless voters later approve a renewal.
How the vote works
Issue 7B is presented to registered voters as a voter‑approved revenue change under Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution. The language of the measure makes clear that the increase is subject to the constitutional requirement that any new revenue be approved by the electorate, regardless of existing state revenue‑or‑spending limits.
Community response
Local homeowners and business owners have expressed a range of opinions. Some community members argue that a modest tax increase is necessary to maintain reliable fire protection and emergency response capabilities, especially as the district’s service area grows. Others are concerned about the added tax burden and want to see a detailed accounting of how the new funds will be allocated.
What to consider before voting
- Financial impact: The levy would add approximately $1.1 million in the first year, which translates to a small increase in property taxes for most owners.
- Service benefits: Additional funding could improve response times, allow for newer equipment, and support training programs for firefighters.
- Duration: The measure locks in the tax increase for a decade, giving voters a long‑term commitment to fund emergency services.
- Accountability: The district is required to retain and spend the revenues for general purposes, providing a clear line of sight for how the money is used.
How to vote
Registered voters in the Rye Fire Protection District can cast their ballot in person at their designated polling place or via mail‑in ballot, following Colorado’s standard voting procedures. Voter guides and sample ballots will include the exact wording of Issue 7B, allowing voters to make an informed decision.
Looking ahead
If approved, the levy will give the district a stable funding stream to maintain and potentially expand its emergency‑services capabilities over the next ten years. If rejected, the district will need to explore alternative financing options or adjust its service model to operate within existing budget constraints.
For more information on the ballot measure, including the full legal text and a breakdown of projected tax impacts, residents can visit the Rye Fire Protection District’s official website or contact the district office directly.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
