UPDATE: Candidates for Boulder City Council are urgently calling for a reform of the city’s complex land-use code, which includes a staggering 17 pages of regulations governing business signage. As the election approaches on November 7, 2023, many candidates argue that the rules hinder growth and creativity in the community.
Boulder’s Title 9, part of the municipal code, outlines detailed regulations for construction and signage, often described as “vague” and difficult to navigate. Lauren Folkerts, a City Council incumbent and architect, states, “It’s a lot of regulation around something every business needs.” Her sentiment is echoed by other candidates, who view the current code as a significant barrier to economic development and housing solutions.
With a backdrop of rising commercial vacancies and housing shortages, candidates are uniting across party lines to address the outdated code. Rob Smoke advocates for allowing homeowners to choose who can live in their residences, while Nicole Speer cautions that significant revisions to Title 9 may need to wait until the Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan is updated.
The complexity of Title 9 has led to frustrations among developers and business owners. Max Lord, a candidate and small business owner, likens the code to a “Jackson Pollock painting” due to its disorganization. He emphasizes the challenges of securing permits, stating, “That makes it difficult to fill a lot of the empty commercial space.”
Candidates argue that easing regulations could unlock potential for “missing middle housing,” such as duplexes and triplexes, a crucial need in Boulder’s housing market. Folkerts proposes reviewing the code to identify barriers to these developments, suggesting that a collaborative approach with developers could lead to effective solutions.
The urgency for reform is palpable. Candidates like Jenny Robins are pushing for a modernized, user-friendly code that small businesses can easily comprehend without extensive legal consultancy. She asserts, “Boulder’s is the most complicated I’ve ever seen,” highlighting the emotional and financial strain on entrepreneurs navigating the current system.
The City Council is expected to prioritize Title 9 reform, directing city staff to explore recommendations through proposed ordinances. However, candidates acknowledge that comprehensive changes will be a lengthy process. Robins suggests considering outside consultants to expedite permit processing, a strategy she believes could lower costs and speed up approvals.
As November 7 approaches, the candidates’ commitment to reforming Title 9 could reshape Boulder’s commercial landscape, potentially revitalizing a struggling local economy. The community awaits their proposals, with many hoping for a future where business owners can thrive without being hindered by bureaucratic red tape.
Stay tuned for updates as Boulder City Council candidates continue to discuss their plans for reforming the land-use code and addressing the pressing issues facing the city.
