Garfield County approves library district ballot issue – Garfield County, Colorado
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Garfield County Libraries Executive Director Abraham Korah and library board President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy speak to the Board of County Commissioners.

Garfield County approves library district ballot issue

Garfield County Libraries seeking voter approval to extend existing mill levy

PRESS RELEASE
August 18, 2026

Garfield County has approved a resolution request by Garfield County Libraries to submit a ballot issue in the November 3, 2026, General Election. The library district is requesting voter approval to extend a portion of its ad valorem property tax levy.

Library district revenues come from one quarter of Garfield County’s one-cent sales tax, and a 2.5 mill levy property tax (two different mills), all approved by voters. One mill of the overall rate that was passed by voters in 2006 expires in 2027.

“It’s not raising any taxes, it’s an extension of the mill levy,” said Garfield County Libraries Board President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy. “It was unanimously passed by all five of the library trustees present (at our meeting), and the two who were absent submitted letters of support.”

Revenues from the sunsetting mill can be used for repairs and ensuring the libraries are safe, clean, and accessible; to retain staff; to provide books, technology, and materials; support programs aimed toward seniors and children; support partnerships with existing nonprofits that support food security, or deal with mental health issues or domestic violence; and fund other library programs and services.

If passed by the voters, the district would continue collecting revenues from the one mill beginning in 2028, with no sunset provision this time.

The Board of County Commissioners supported placing the ballot issue on the November 3, 2026, General Election ballot unanimously, 2-0, with Commissioner Mike Samson excused from the meeting.