There are two questions on the November ballot which will, if approved, ensure Keystone’s ability to do the needed planning and afford improvements to safety and infrastructure more quickly. These are a question to remove the Taxpayer Bill of Rights revenue cap, also known as “de-Brucing,” and a question to reinstate the 2% lodging tax which was no longer valid when Keystone incorporated in February 2024. 

Approving “de-Brucing” will allow Keystone to remove the cap and keep revenue from all sources including various taxes and grants. This measure does not add taxes or increase current taxes. It allows Keystone to:

• Retain revenue increases in excess of budget expectations
• Receive state and private grants for capital and community projects, community infrastructure, affordable housing, childcare and other priorities
• Retain additional tax revenue such as lodging and lift taxes

Without approval, Keystone’s opportunities to compete for grants, additional tax money and fundraising will be jeopardized, and it could force a delay in the funding of critical capital projects or even a reduction in town services. 

At least 80% of the municipalities in Colorado have voted to adopt “de-Brucing”. 

The second measure is a 2% lodging tax on nightly rentals to create revenue to be used for capital infrastructure projects, U.S. Highway 6 safety and public safety. It replaces the 2% county lodging tax that, upon Keystone’s incorporation, was no longer collected.

The adoption of a 2% lodging tax is expected to generate $1.6-2 million annually for the town. It will not be paid by residents but by visitors who use short term accommodations. It will provide funds to mitigate the impact of visitors on the town infrastructure. Keystone’s lodging tax will remain lower than other towns in the county.

Vote yes on “de-Brucing” and a 2% Lodging Tax to support the future of Keystone.