We love connecting with our residents. Whether it’s at the County Fair, a public meeting, or at the grocery store, these interactions mean a lot because they allow us to better understand the unique needs and challenges of our residents and ultimately work together to solve them. Commissioners spent countless hours in 2024 talking with residents about the County’s financial health and the challenges that come with tight budgets. And through these conversations, one consistent theme emerged: our residents want to invest in the essential programs and services that make our community thrive.
That’s why we’ve launched Investing in Arapahoe—a commitment to protecting and enhancing the County services and programs that make Arapahoe County a great place to live, work and raise a family.
In November 2024, voters overwhelmingly approved Measure 1A which releases the County from revenue and spending limits imposed by the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR). These funds will help supplement essential county services, such as road maintenance, public safety, housing solutions and homelessness prevention and response; services that could not have been accomplished without additional funding.
To make sure we’re on the right path—and to demonstrate accountability and transparency—we’ve created a Resident Advisory Committee to oversee the investment process and ensure alignment with community expectations. To keep residents informed of the process, we’ve created a webpage specifically dedicated to this process so you’ll know where we’re investing funds and the positive effects they have on our community and residents.
Safe and Healthy Communities
A thriving community isn’t just new businesses and home sales. It’s providing services that help ensure our safety, our physical and mental health and the security of the most vulnerable among us. A burgeoning community relies on a mix of strong public safety, public health, and human services that benefit all residents. These ingredients address economic stability, mental health, substance abuse, education and housing while breaking the cycles of poverty and enhancing well-being.
Working together to create a safer future
Arapahoe County now has some of the most stringent oil and gas regulations in the state, thanks to amended regulations to the Land Development Code adopted in 2024. The new regulations added requirements for oil and gas operators to protect public health, the environment and wildlife. These regulations will be further enhanced through air quality monitoring and the creation of a new inspection program. The County worked with community and neighborhood groups and the State to provide input on the regulations.
Sharing the love with cities, towns and special districts
In 2024, we distributed more than $27 million to participating cities, towns and partner agencies to improve local parks, trails and open spaces. Funding is provided by the County’s quarter-cent Open Space Sales and Use Tax and supports a variety of recreation and conservation projects, from inclusive playgrounds and wildlife habitat improvements to safer regional trails. Distributed countywide according to population, the funds contribute to the quality of life and overall health of County residents.
Arapahoe becomes its own judicial district
For the past three years, stakeholders from the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties worked to prepare for the biggest change in 60 years to Colorado’s judicial system. In January 2025, the 18th Judicial District split into two—Arapahoe County is now the sole county of the 18th Judicial District under the direction of newly elected District Attorney Amy Padden. Douglas, Elbert, and Lincoln counties formed the new 23rd Judicial District. The County identified shared service areas that could be leveraged by the DA’s Office and allow employees of the new 18th Judicial District’s DA’s Office to focus on core services, such as victim support, diversion, investigations and more.
Sheriff enhances safety for the Town of Bennett
To better serve residents, the Sheriff’s Office in 2024 assumed law enforcement duties for the entire Town of Bennett. The agreement provides two new full-time deputies, a part-time detective, and 24/7 access to the sheriff’s 911 communications center, ensuring patrol, investigate and emergency support for the town of 3,500 residents.
New ordinance addresses parking and safety issues
Enforcement of a new parking ordinance for unincorporated Arapahoe County roads and County-owned property began Jan. 1, 2025. The new regulations allow Sheriff deputies and other designated County staff to issue parking citations and tow abandoned vehicles and vehicles that obstruct the road, interfere with road maintenance, or are parked in a “No Parking” zone marked by signage. The ordinance supplements the parking provisions within the County’s Model Traffic Code.
Arapahoe County Commissioners and homeowners’ association representatives heralded the regulations as a win for the County, especially in the Four Square Mile area where abandoned and inoperable vehicles have become both a nuisance and a safety issue.
Taking public health into the future
To help understand how to best serve and partner with residents, Arapahoe County Public Health completed its first Community Health Assessment (CHA). The assessment provides an overview of countywide health status to strategically inform and prioritize the health issues we address. With the completion of the 2024 CHA, Public Health and its partners are now in the midst of their next step: a five-year plan to improve the health and well-being of residents.
Tackling homelessness, one connection at a time
On a single night in January 2024, 650 people experiencing homelessness were counted across Arapahoe County—highlighting the urgent need for continued action. With housing costs continuing to rise, the County made affordable housing a top priority.
Throughout the year, our Housing Resource Navigators were on the ground, working directly with residents to break down barriers to stable housing. Whether connecting people to medical or mental health services, or helping them navigate housing applications, these Navigators made a real difference. In 2024 alone, they served 939 individuals, helping more neighbors move toward stability, self-sufficiency and a place to call home.
Health on demand, right where it’s needed
In April 2024, Public Health launched a network of health supply kiosks designed to save lives and expand access to care. Located in key community hubs—Englewood, Aurora, Byers, and Centennial—these kiosks provide free, no-questions-asked access to essential health supplies, including overdose prevention medication, COVID-19 test kits, and sexual health resources. By putting critical tools directly into the hands of those who need them most, the County is breaking down barriers and making public health more accessible, equitable, and immediate.
Navigating public spaces
Navigating public buildings can be a challenge for anyone but it’s even more difficult for those with disabilities. To help those with physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities find their destination, the County participated in a pilot program with the University of Colorado at Denver. The pilot program—called Point-It-Out—uses a mobile device’s camera and overlays important directional information on the screen. The pilot is a wonderful fit for our accessibility work and will help to improve customer service all the way around.
Economic Resilience and Stability
A strong economy is critical for the long-term success of Arapahoe County and our residents. To create a resilient foundation for businesses, workers and families, we invest in the programs and services that provide access to capital and resources, support affordable housing initiatives and provide essential services for those who struggle.
New housing data tool highlights need for affordable options
Arapahoe County has a powerful new tool to help tackle our affordable housing shortage. The Market Value Analysis (MVA) provides clear, data-driven insights that guide how we invest federal housing funds, shape local policies, and target solutions where they’re needed most. Residents, policymakers, and housing advocates can all use the tool to better understand market trends and work together toward real solutions.
The MVA shows just how urgent the challenge is: Rents have risen 35–40% in the past four years, leaving many families paying more than 30% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. Today, a typical family of four earning the median household income of $85,000 can only afford housing in one of nine areas across the County—where homes have a median sales price of just $257,000. This new tool helps us see the problem clearly—and take action to build a stronger, more affordable future for all.
Making homes healthier and safer
For many Arapahoe County residents, a simple home upgrade can mean the difference between a drafty winter and a season of comfort—and thanks to the County’s Weatherization Program, those improvements come at no cost. After conducting detailed energy audits to check insulation, air leaks, and heating efficiency, our expert technicians recommend and install solutions that help families save money and feel more at home.
In 2024 alone, the program served more than 1,700 residents, completing 658 audits and weatherizing 462 homes. Along the way, the team inspected 605 furnaces, replaced 174 aging systems, and upgraded 73 inefficient refrigerators. Every repaired furnace and weatherized home represents more than just energy savings—it’s a healthier, safer living environment for the people who call Arapahoe County home.
Investing in affordable housing: Eagle Meadows and Overlook at Powers Park
Safe, affordable housing is key to a strong community—but it’s in short supply across Colorado. In 2024, we helped expand housing options by supporting two new developments. Eagle Meadow Homes in Aurora offers 141 affordable units for households earning 30–60% of the area median income (AMI). Thanks in part to $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, families now have more access to quality one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes.
In Littleton, Overlook at Powers Park provides 51 affordable one-bedroom apartments for lower-income adults aged 62 and older. The County supported this project with federal Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership funds, helping our seniors find safe, stable housing. These projects are just part of our commitment to investing in housing solutions for every stage of life.
Investing in long-term success: GOALS program
Our investment in the Generational Opportunities to Achieve Long-Term Success (GOALS) program is making a real difference. An evaluation by the Center for Policy Research showed that more than 90% of GOALS participants secured stable housing after just four to nine months in the program. In partnership with Family Tree, GOALS helps families experiencing homelessness or housing instability through a residential program in Aurora. Families didn’t just find housing—they also boosted their annual wages by more than $8,000, improved their mental health, and were 24% more likely to access educational support like tutoring and school supplies. GOALS is proof that investing in families today builds stronger communities tomorrow.
Sustainable Growth and Infrastructure
Ensuring we have the resources to meet the demands of future generations is key for managing growth in the years ahead. And to do so, we must prioritize investments in community infrastructure, housing diversity, and environmental sustainability. That’s because sustainable growth requires smart development, resilient infrastructure and responsible resource management. These items are critical in meeting the demands of future generations. By prioritizing housing, transportation, and economic development, we ensure long-term prosperity while maintaining environmental responsibility. Strategic investments in roads, open spaces, and public transit create a more connected and accessible county for all.
Jail expansion creates new medical and behavioral health areas
In 2024, we made significant strides in expanding and modernizing the Detention Center, part of a $46 million project that leveraged American Rescue Plan Act to create new kitchen and laundry facilities. As those areas come online, construction will begin on an expanded medical and behavioral health area that will allow clinicians to better treat the medical and mental health needs of inmates. These improvements are part of a broader initiative to address the facility’s aging infrastructure and to better meet the needs of a growing and diverse inmate population. The project reflects the County's commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and the overall quality of life for both staff and those in custody.
Investing in open space: protecting the High Line Canal
In a historic move, Denver Water transferred ownership of 45 miles of the High Line Canal to Arapahoe County in June 2024, along with a conservation easement held by the High Line Canal Conservancy to permanently protect it as natural open space. This partnership between Denver Water, Arapahoe County, and the Conservancy marks a major milestone in the Canal’s transformation—from a 71-mile water delivery system to one of the nation’s premier urban trails and green spaces.
Over the years, Arapahoe County has invested more than $11 million in Canal projects, including new bridges, trail underpasses, trailheads, and signage to improve access and safety for residents.
We’re proud to help protect this regional treasure for generations to come.
Investing in our future: countywide water study
Water is one of our most precious resources—and planning for its future is essential. After two years of work, Arapahoe County completed a comprehensive water supply study in 2024.
The good news: the study found that adequate water supplies exist to meet the County’s projected growth through 2050. It also provides recommendations to strengthen land use policies around conservation, recycling, and responsible development, ensuring we manage this critical resource wisely as our communities continue to grow. With thoughtful planning today, we’re investing in a sustainable future for generations to come.
Investing in cleaner transportation: regional EV action plan
After more than a year of collaboration, Arapahoe County completed its first Regional Electric Vehicle (EV) Action Plan in 2024. The plan lays out a strategic roadmap to help the County, our cities, and other non-government partners create a future-ready network that supports the growing demand for plug-in electric vehicles. And that demand is coming fast—by 2030, Colorado expects to have nearly 940,000 electric vehicles on the road. By investing in EV infrastructure now, we’re making it easier for residents and businesses to transition to cleaner, more sustainable transportation while helping protect air quality and public health across the region.
Going paperless to save the planet (and money)
As part of our sustainability efforts and to save the County money, the Treasurer’s Office now offers an online form to opt-out of receiving paper property tax statements. This option could save the County an estimated $150,000 annually in processing fees and staff time if every property owner in the County switched to paperless property tax statements and paid online. Plus, it’s a huge paper savings, which reduces our carbon footprint further. Learn more at Opt-in to paperless tax statements.
Expanding our legacy of conservation in Eastern Arapahoe County
Arapahoe County Open Spaces is growing—and so is our commitment to protecting the land, wildlife, and agricultural heritage that define eastern Arapahoe County. In January 2024, the County acquired 362 acres along the northwest border of Bijou Basin Open Space near Byers, expanding the Bijou Basin landscape to more than 3,000 acres. The new property will continue to support local agriculture while preserving vital habitat for pronghorn, mule deer, and other wildlife.
This acquisition strengthens connections between more than 15,500 acres of protected lands across the West Bijou Creek area, safeguarding scenic views and ensuring that working lands and natural resources are preserved for generations to come. The investment reflects the values of our community, and the vision set forth in the County’s Open Spaces Master Plan. While the newly-protected land isn’t yet open to the public, planning is underway to create future opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and connecting with the beauty of the plains—while always keeping conservation at the heart of our efforts.
Investing in 20 years of open spaces
In 2024, Arapahoe County celebrated a major milestone—20 years of Open Spaces, made possible by the ongoing support of our residents. Thanks to a voter-approved quarter-cent sales and use tax, Open Spaces has protected 32,000 acres of land, built or improved 78 miles of trails, and invested in 196 park and trailhead projects. We've also led regional efforts to enhance vital corridors like the High Line Canal, South Platte, and Cherry Creek.
Together with our local partners, we've transformed Arapahoe County into a place where parks, trails, and natural spaces connect and inspire our communities every day. This achievement belongs to all of us—and the best is yet to come.
Rain, rain…please stay!
Through a partnership with SPLASH and local cities, Arapahoe County hosted rain barrel workshops to help residents save money, conserve water, and protect our streams. Participants learned how to reduce stormwater pollution and walked away with a 55-gallon rain barrel, connector kit, and the know-how to manage water sustainably at home.
Dove Valley Regional Park: bigger, better, and built for the community
In June 2024, Arapahoe County proudly celebrated the completion of the Dove Valley Regional Park Expansion Project. For 35 years, Dove Valley has been one of the County’s most popular parks, a beloved destination for regional sports teams, schools, families, and weekday lunch breakers alike. Now, thanks to a major investment and strong community partnerships, the park is even bigger and better than before. In June, we proudly celebrated the completion of the project and welcomed residents to experience new features, which include a brand-new bike park, a new dog park, upgraded athletic fields with water-saving irrigation, additional shade pavilions and parking, a new playground, and more. Dove Valley Regional Park today is a vibrant symbol of progress, partnership—and the community vision that continues to move Arapahoe County forward.
Workforce and Community Prosperity
A thriving workforce and inclusive economy help Arapahoe County excel by supporting employers, businesses and employees. We are committed to building an accountable and skilled workforce that is well-supported to meet community needs. By investing in training opportunities and equitable access to resources, we foster long-term growth, business success, and economic mobility.
Investing in housing stability: Meadowood Village
Arapahoe County is proud to have helped protect a vital part of our community’s quality of life by supporting residents of Meadowood Village Mobile Home Park in Littleton. When their community was set to be sold for $18 million—threatening drastic rent increases for many fixed-income older adults—the County stepped in with a $750,000 grant to support the residents’ effort to purchase the park.
In partnership with the City of Littleton, the County also provided $75,000 to help cover inspection and legal costs. After a year-long process, in January 2025, the residents officially became proud owners of the newly formed Meadowood Cooperative—securing stability, affordability, and a stronger future.
Investing in health and hope: Prevention Point
In February, Arapahoe County Public Health launched Prevention Point, a mobile harm reduction van bringing critical resources directly to underserved communities. Residents can access clean syringes, fentanyl and xylazine test strips, overdose reversal medication, safe syringe disposal, and testing for HIV, Hepatitis C, and other infections. The mobile unit also connects visitors to treatment programs, cessation resources, and other community services—all part of the County’s efforts to reduce the devastating impact of opioids and overdoses while promoting healthier, safer communities.
Investing in those who served
Arapahoe County’s Veteran Services Officers (VSOs) are proud to stand by our veterans, ensuring they receive the benefits and support they’ve earned. In 2024, our VSOs helped submit 789 claims to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, resulting in more than $12.2 million in recovered benefits for local veterans—nearly double the amount recovered in 2023.
The passage of the PACT Act, which expands care and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances, led to an unprecedented surge in claims. Thanks to the dedication of our VSOs, hundreds of Arapahoe County veterans and their families are getting the resources they deserve. We are honored to serve those who have served us.
Keeping voter trust in elections
The Clerk and Recorder’s Office managed three consequential elections in 2024, and more than half a million Arapahoe County voters turned out for the March Presidential Primary, the June State Primary and November’s General Election.
The Elections Division processed or updated over 207,000 voter registrations and there were almost 430,000 registered Arapahoe County voters as of the General Election. Importantly, we completed successful pre-election logic and accuracy testing and post-election audits to ensure each election’s results were counted fairly and accurately.
In the Community
Whether it’s meeting neighbors at the County Fair, honoring local heroes, or joining city-sponsored celebrations, our Board of County Commissioners shows up. Being in the community isn’t just part of the job—it’s how we stay connected, listen to residents, and celebrate the people and partnerships that make Arapahoe County a great place to call home.
Fair good times
In 2024, the Arapahoe County Fair once again brought the community together for four days of celebration, connection, and good old-fashioned fun. More than 25,000 people turned out to enjoy carnival rides, mutton bustin’, 4-H and public competitions, concerts, fireworks, and crowd favorites like the Rodeo and Pours on the Plains. With strong support from local sponsors and nearly 5,000 volunteer hours contributed, the Fair continues to be a beloved tradition rooted in pride, partnership, and the spirit of Arapahoe County. From the livestock arena to the beer garden, every corner of the Fairgrounds reflected the vibrant and diverse community we serve.
Boots Not Suits presented by Civitas
Arapahoe County Commissioners, elected officials, and civic, business and economic development leaders gathered at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds for the annual Boots Not Suits dinner. Attendees enjoyed a fun evening of tasty food, cold drinks, live music and networking to celebrate the opening night of the 2024 Arapahoe County Fair.
Thanksgiving food drive
Human Services staff, local volunteers and community donors joined forces to help bring Thanksgiving meals to families served by the department. We hand-delivered Thanksgiving meals to 2,225 people. This monumental effort required 235 volunteers and more than $33,000 worth of food donations.
County Leadership
Board of County Commissioners
Carrie Warren-Gully, District 1; Jeff Baker, Chair Pro Tem, District 3; Leslie Summey, Chair, District 4; Rhonda Fields, District 5; and Jessica Campbell, District 2
PK Kaiser, Arapahoe County Assessor
Joan Lopez, Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder
Kelly Lear, Arapahoe County Coroner
Amy Padden, Arapahoe County District Attorney
Mark Westerberg, Arapahoe County Treasurer
Tyler Brown, Arapahoe County Sheriff
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