Following a year-long evaluation process, the Fort Collins City Council has referred to the voters a request to continue the Community Capital Improvement Program (CCIP). If approved, this ¼-cent sales and use tax (groceries are exempt) would continue for another 10 years while generating an estimated $11M per year. Targeted investment categories include transportation & mobility (42%), parks & recreation (25%), river & environment (20%), housing (10%), and cultural facilities (3%).
The Board of your Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce encourages you to vote ‘Yes’ on Ballot Issue 2A, which will direct much-needed funding toward two key elements of our local economy: transportation infrastructure and housing.
Specifically, CCIP will continue to fund arterial intersection improvements, build-out of ADA-compliant sidewalks and bicycle safety enhancements. Transit certainly factors into the proposed program, but the emphasis features systemwide investments that will expand safe and convenient travel options beyond buses.
Though we would have preferred to see a more robust commitment to housing, the proposed fund is significantly larger than the existing program while preserving the necessary flexibility to respond to market conditions. Coupled with continuing efforts to address the cost and complexity of residential development through code updates and process improvements, the expanded housing fund will be utilized to lower debt service and offset impact fees for qualified projects.
Together, these two elements of CCIP will deliver meaningful financial support as we pursue policies that advance economic vibrancy, resiliency and mobility within a thriving business-friendly community. Not only will expanding our supply of housing that customers and workers alike can afford, but improving the efficiency of moving people, goods and services will pay dividends for generations to come.