La Plata County Ballot Question Update
The La Plata County Commissioners voted unanimously to place a one-cent sales tax increase on the Nov. 4 ballot, citing financial challenges as revenues lag behind rising costs. The measure would help maintain and improve essential services such as road and bridge maintenance, law enforcement, disaster response, support for veterans, seniors, and at-risk families, and other critical county programs as community needs grow.

Durango Fire Protection District Ballot Question Update
The Durango City Council approved the language to go on the ballot in November on behalf of the Durango Fire Protection District (DFPD). The DFPD chose a property tax increase of 4.45 mills and the proceeds would potentially fund a new fire station at Three Springs.

Bayfield Ballot Questions
The Town of Bayfield is asking voters to add 1% to the town sales tax starting January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2045. It would raise an estimated $600,000 in 2026 specifically for Joe Stephenson Park, the unnamed park south of Schiller Street, park operations & maintenance, and projects in the town’s Parks Master Plan.

Bayfield will also ask voters whether to implement a 4% accommodations tax starting January 1, 2026. The tax would apply to short-term stays (30 days or less) in hotels, motels, bed-and-breakfasts, RV/camping sites, cabins, etc.. It is expected to generate $20,000 in its first year to fund parks, economic development, affordable/community housing, and other municipal expenses.