The Douglas County Board of Commissioners is throwing its weight behind the idea of more autonomy. At their Business Meeting on Tuesday, June 10, the commissioners were in agreement, passing a resolution unanimously that champions the formation of a Home Rule Charter Commission, as reported by Douglas County.
Home Rule is seen as a bulwark by the Board, especially amid concerns about state overreach by the Colorado General Assembly. They envision it as a tool, nearly bringing local matters under the purview of Douglas County residents, such as land use and environmental protections. Voiced by the commissioners, the resolution outlines support for 'Yes' votes from residents in the upcoming Special Election scheduled to be held on June 24, about which details can be found at Douglasvotes.com.
"Local control under Home Rule would increase our ability to deal with issues like homelessness, public safety, and immigration," Commissioner Abe Laydon, Board Chair, identified the practical benefits of a Home Rule system, per Douglas County. He added that it could also "provide residents with economic support through lower property taxes during tough economic times."
Commissioner George Teal echoed the sentiment, affirming his stance in favor of Home Rule. "I am very much an advocate for Home Rule, and I very much believe everything that’s written here in this resolution,” Teal told Douglas County, and encouraged his fellow commissioners and all Douglas County residents to cast their votes affirmatively in the Special Election.
