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El Paso County officials are contemplating a swift return to the ballot with a proposal for significant renovations to the El Paso County Coliseum, just six months after voters narrowly rejected a similar initiative. The proposed improvements, estimated at over $100 million, would require voter approval and could be included in the May election. Commissioners expressed urgency due to potential legislative changes that may limit their ability to revisit failed bond propositions.

In a recent capital planning meeting, El Paso County Commissioner David Stout advocated for placing the renovation proposal on the May 3 ballot. He emphasized the importance of preparing an outreach strategy to garner public support. While no formal action was taken during the meeting, the county judge and three other commissioners voiced their backing for the initiative. To proceed, the County Commissioners Court must vote by February 10 to call for an election. This election will also feature various school board races.

The discussion about the coliseum's future emerged alongside reviews of funding options for other public works projects, such as flood control, water services, and technology upgrades. Financial advisors presented alternatives, including issuing tax notes and certificates of obligation (COs), which do not necessitate voter approval but are funded through taxpayer dollars. If the court decides to issue COs, a public notice must be published in early March to allow taxpayers time to provide feedback or petition for an election.

Last November, a $105.5 million bond proposal for coliseum renovations fell short by fewer than 700 votes. The proposition aimed to enhance seating, improve accessibility, install a new roof and air conditioning system, and transform adjacent structures into event venues. At the time, it was projected to increase annual property taxes on a home valued at $200,000 by approximately $20. Deputy County Administrator Jose Landeros indicated that if the May election proceeds, the proposition would likely remain unchanged in terms of amount and scope of work.

Voters also declined a $63.3 million proposal for new county annexes in November, while approving $155 million in bonds for an animal shelter, park improvements, and a new medical examiner’s office. These approved projects were expected to raise annual property taxes on a $200,000 home by $29. County leaders have signaled that any rejected proposals might be reintroduced in future elections. The urgency to act now stems from a pending Senate bill that seeks to restrict local governments from reconsidering failed bond propositions for five years.

County leaders have been exploring various funding sources since late 2022, considering general bonds and COs for their multi-year capital plan. State law prohibits using COs for failed bond proposals within three years. Legislation under consideration aims to amend the definition of public works and limit the use of tax anticipation notes for projects rejected in bond elections.

Given these developments, county officials aim to capitalize on the current window of opportunity to secure voter approval for the coliseum renovations before potential legislative constraints take effect. The decision reflects a strategic approach to address critical infrastructure needs while navigating evolving legal frameworks.