Westminster to Vote on Sales Tax Increase for Enhanced Firefighting Services and Training Facility

Update: In the November 5 election, unofficial results indicate that voters denied ballot measure 3C with 25,899 “No” votes and 22,843 “Yes” votes.

During the November 2024 election, Westminster residents will have the opportunity to vote on a proposed sales and use tax increase of 0.5%—or an additional five cents on every ten-dollar purchase. Ballot Measure 3C aims to address critical needs within the Westminster Fire Department by funding the hiring of approximately 45 new firefighters and paramedics, constructing two new fire stations, modernizing three existing stations, and investing in state-of-the-art firefighting equipment. If approved by voters, the tax increase is expected to generate around $19 million annually from shoppers in the north metro Denver area. 

Since 2003, the Westminster Fire Department has seen a dramatic increase in service calls, rising from approximately 7,000 to more than 17,000 in 2023. Currently, two areas of the city fall outside the Fire Department’s target four-minute travel response time. While mutual aid agreements provide critical support, the support received doesn’t meet the department’s response standard. The proposed fire stations and additional firefighters would strengthen and improve coverage throughout the city. 

The funding from the proposed tax increase would also support the construction of a modern fire training facility within Westminster. Currently, fire personnel must travel outside the city to use shared training resources. The new facility would not only enhance the training of fire personnel but would also serve a citywide emergency and tactical training facility. Additionally, the revenue would facilitate the acquisition of advanced firefighting equipment, ensuring the department is equipped to handle the most challenging emergencies effectively. 

Economic Impact and Community Benefits: 

• Economic Boost: The estimated $19 million in annual revenue from the sales tax increase would provide significant economic benefits, including job creation and investment in community infrastructure. 

• Service Enhancements: By addressing response travel time gaps and upgrading facilities and equipment, the tax increase aims to enhance overall public safety and improve emergency response efficiency. 

• Local Employment: Hiring new firefighters and paramedics would create jobs and provide career opportunities within the community. 

Westminster City Council passed Resolution 22, by a 6-1 vote on August 26, 2024, to place the proposed question on the November 5 ballot. A detailed plan outlining the allocation of funds and the anticipated improvements can be found in the City’s proposal here. 

Westminster residents will be asked to vote yes or no on the below ballot question in November 2024: 

Shall City of Westminster taxes be increased by $19 million annually in the first full fiscal year and by such amounts as are raised annually thereafter by increasing the existing city sales and use tax by 0.5%, with one-half of such additional tax authorization to expire on January 1, 2045, and the resulting tax revenues being used to:  

• Recruit and retain firefighter personnel and personnel to provide direct support to firefighters 

• Construct strategically placed fire stations and facilities and update existing fire stations to meet safety and building standards 

• Provide up-to-date firefighter safety gear and emergency equipment to better protect the public and first responders and with the resulting tax revenue being allowed to be collected and spent notwithstanding any limitations provided by law?