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In the News and In Our Community

What People Are Saying About 1B

Community voices, local leaders, and media outlets are weighing in on why 1B matters for Boulder County. From op-eds to news features, see how people across the county are talking about the importance of expanding access to behavioral health care and why a YES vote on 1B is a vote for a stronger, healthier community.

Bob Yates speaks into a microphone at the city council meeting

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In his latest opinion piece, former Boulder City Councilmember Bob Yates urges voters to approve a proposed 0.15% sales tax to fund mental health services in Boulder County. With federal support dwindling and the state facing a significant budget deficit, Yates emphasizes the urgency of local action to address escalating mental health needs, including rising suicide rates and limited access to care. The temporary three-year tax is projected to generate $14 million annually, providing essential resources for county residents

Boulder Reporting Lab - Opinion

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After weeks of deliberation, the Boulder County Commissioners have voted unanimously to place a three-year, 0.15% sales and use tax on the November ballot to fund mental health services. If approved, the tax is expected to generate about $15 million annually, filling gaps left when American Rescue Plan Act funds expire in 2026.

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The funds will be allocated across five key areas: crisis response, treatment, recovery supports, navigation services, and prevention programs, with flexibility to adjust funding based on evolving needs.

Daily Camera
A photo of the room nameplate outside the commissioners' hearing room
Boulder County.webp
A photo of the Boulder County commissioners meeting room, with the commissioners speaking from behind their round table to a room of spectators, and the Boulder County insignia on the wall

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Boulder County commissioners have approved a 0.15% sales and use tax measure for the November 2025 ballot to fund mental health and addiction services. If passed, the three-year tax is projected to generate about $13.8 million in its first year, supporting prevention, crisis response, addiction treatment, recovery services, and navigation programs for residents.

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The measure prioritizes sustaining critical services currently funded by one-time federal stimulus dollars, including mental health navigation services and a non-police response team for emergencies. Funds will also support community-based organizations across the county. An advisory board will oversee allocations, with a public website tracking spending and impact.​

Boulder Reporting Lab

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On Connections with host Kathy Partridge (September 5, 2025), Boulder County Commissioner Claire Levy joined to discuss Healthy Minds, Stronger Communities and the upcoming 1B Behavioral Health ballot measure. The conversation explores what’s at stake, how the initiative will expand access to care, and why investing in mental health strengthens the entire community.

KGNU News - Connections
Recording studio with a microphone in the foreground
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