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Administration

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1. How do I request public records?: Follow the link to the Request for Records Form. Complete the form and email, mail or bring the completed form to the Town Clerk's Office and pay the appropriate fees.

2. Who should representatives of the media contact if they would like to speak with someone?: The media is encouraged to contact the Communications and Community Engagement team at communications@erieco.gov or call 303-827-9648.

3. Where can I find economic development and demographic information about the Town of Erie?: View "Demographic Report" and the "Community Profile" page under the Economic Development Department to download and print current demographic information.

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Airport

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1. What type of aircraft uses the Erie Municipal Airport?: The Erie Municipal Airport is rated for 12,000 pound single axle aircraft. A larger turbo prop (King Air or Cheyenne) is about the largest aircraft that is normally received. However, we have had a couple of jets land over the past year. Most operations are light singles, and some helicopter operations.

2. What are the hours of operations at the Erie Municipal Airport?: The airport runway is open 24 hours a day/7 days a week /365 days a year unless closed for repairs or snow removal. The FBO is open from 0800 to 1700L daily.

3. How many average take off and landings occur on weekdays/weekends?: The FAA’s formula for determining the approximate number of takeoffs and landings per year puts the Erie Municipal Airport at 35,000. Most movements occur on the weekend.

4. What is the typical flight pattern for Erie Municipal Airport?: For runway 15/33, the typical pattern should be a rectangle located parallel to the runway and on the west side of the runway. It consists of five legs - Upwind or departure - Maintain runway heading until approximately 400 feet agl (above ground level) Crosswind - 90 degree turn to the west for approximately ½ to 1 mile horizontal distance from the runway.Downwind - Parallel the runway while climbing to pattern altitude (6,000 ft msl). Downwind leg extends to approximately ½ to 1 mile beyond landing threshold.Base - 90 degree turn to the East.Final - Aligned with the runway prior to landing.

5. What is the noise abatement procedure for Erie Municipal Airport?: Departing Aircraft – Climb to 1000' agl as soon as possible, avoid overflight of populated areas to the north and west. (Historic Downtwon Erie and Johnson Communities) Touch and Go Traffic – Runway 33 If able, turn crosswind before the populated area to the northwest (Johnson Communities). Runway 15 If able, turn base before the populated area to the northwest (Johnson Communities).

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Allo Fiber

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1. Why is Allo allowed to install fiber lines in Erie?: The Town of Erie Board of Trustees approved a Franchise Agreement with Allo Communications which gives them the right to complete this work. Complete details of this granting of rights is available in the Franchise Agreement in section 2.1.

2. Why is new service beginning near Flatiron Meadow and Rex Ranch?: All fiber internet service has to begin at a "fiber hut" where the lines begin and where emergency back-up systems are housed to maintain service in the case of outages. The fiber hut for Allo Communications is housed near the Thomas Reservoir on land that Allo is leasing from the Town of Erie. Service will be spread through the Town - and specifically to neighborhoods with few connectivity options - as quickly as possible once service lines are running out from the fiber hut.

3. What is a "fiber hut"?

Just like battery back-up systems for homes, the fiber huts are locations built and maintained by internet providers to prepare for power failures with extensive back-up systems and emergency generators to ensure that our customers maintain Internet and phone service. A fiber hut is simply a small, cement building (like the one pictured below) that houses back-up systems and the beginning point of a fiber network in that location.

The space where Allo will be building their fiber hut is on leased space that the company has contracted with the Town to utilize. The space is near Thomas Reservoir which is why service for Allo is beginning in neighborhood in this general area.

fiber hut image

4. Why does the Erie community need another internet, TV, and phone provider?: The Board of Trustees and Town staff believe that facilitating another internet provider option (Allo Communications) for residents and businesses will increase competition among all providers, and that should reduce costs for residents and businesses and improve customer service. With a continually growing residential and business population, extra options for coverage should help supply keep up with demand in our community.

5. What is an “easement” or “right-of-way”?

Answer from Allo:

The city owns small but specific portions of your property to access and maintain city utilities. We work with the city to access these areas as we build our fiber network.

A utility easement allows a utility the right to use and access a specific area of your property for constructing, operating and maintaining gas, electric, water, and sewer lines. The easement is often a permanent restriction on the property so that it transfers ownership with the home or property when sold. Having an easement gives the utility the right to use the land, but the utility does not own it.

A “right-of-way” is the surface and space above and below any real property in the city in which the city has an interest as an owner or trustee for the public for public travel including public streets, highways, avenues, roads, alleys, easements, sidewalks, tunnels, viaducts, or bridges.

6. How do I find the easement in my yard?

Answer from Allo:

There are a few ways to determine the easement area of your property.

Review the deed to the property which can be obtained from the county clerk or recorder. The easements will be explained in the legal description of the property.
Contact the zoning or mapping department for your county or city. These departments are in charge of keeping records of surveys and plot maps and can help provide information about an easement on your property.
Reach out to the utility company — or any entity with easement rights — to request the easement information regarding a certain property.
Contact a title insurance company, or private title searcher, they can be hired to perform a search for easements. They are often able to provide a comprehensive report for a fee.

7. How will I be contacted regarding the start of construction?: Answer from Allo: ALLO will reach out to you regarding construction in a variety of ways including direct mail notices, emails, door tags, and in-person visits from our quality assurance construction team.

8. How long does construction take?: Answer from Allo: This depends on the layout and design of your neighborhood. Some areas are built with easier access to utilities and easements, others have more complex designs and natural obstructions which can cause delays. Planning, design, and engineering are months in the making before you ever see a sub-contractor or ALLO team member make an appearance. City planning is unique in every area and in our 10+ years building GIG communities we’ve found that no two neighborhoods are alike. For these reasons and the ones that are far outside of our control, like weather and unexpected natural obstacles, we recommend checking our interactive website map for the most up to date information on your neighborhood.

9. Will I receive notice before locate flags or markings are placed?: Answer from Allo: We do our best to inform ALLO communities of the entire construction process by mail prior to the arrival of our construction team. However, the town and contractors will access the utility easement area of you property to mark existing utilities and communications lines before our construction can begin and they are not required to provide notice of their flags or markings ahead of time.

10. There are flags and people in my yard, what are they doing?

Answer from Allo:

The flags or marking in your area were placed by the local utilities companies and help our team identify where the lines are underground. When ALLO begins fiber construction, we use these markings to protect against damage to your property or utilities. Please see the list below for an explanation of utility color associations.

White: proposed excavation.
Pink: temporary survey markings.
Red: electric power lines, cable, conduit, and lighting cables
Yellow: gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or gaseous materials
Orange: communication, alarm or signal lines, cables or conduit
Blue: potable water
Purple: reclaimed water, irrigation and slurry lines
Green: sewer and drain lines

11. How long will the flags or markings be in place?: Answer from Allo: Utility locate flags or markings are good for 10-14 business days. If construction has not been completed in that time frame, the area will need to be re-marked.

12. How deep will you have to dig to bury the fiber line?: Answer from Allo: The main line in the easements and right of ways are buried between two and four feet deep and the fiber drop to the house or to the pedestal may vary between 12 to 18 inches in depth.

13. There’s a cable in my yard or draped over my fence, what is it?: Answer from Allo: This is a temporary fiber drop. Our team will return soon to establish a permanent and less intrusive location for the cable. Weather can sometimes play a role in this process and if delays occur ALLO will notify you with an updated timeframe for permanent drop construction. If your fiber is installed during winter months when the ground is frozen, you may have a temporary drop until the spring. If your existing utilities are underground, ALLO will follow the same path.

14. How large is the conduit that contains the fiber optic cable?: Answer from Allo: The conduit ranges in size from ¾ inch to 2 inch, but our standard is ¾ inch.

15. There is a hole in my yard with a fence around it – what is that?: Answer from Allo: We are placing pedestals in the easement in your yard. The pedestal, with weather permitting, is installed shortly after the ground is prepared so there is a fence placed around the hole for safety. The pedestal that is eventually placed here houses the equipment to provide service to several homes and businesses in your area. Our intent is to leave your property the way we found it.

16. Why is there a pedestal in my yard and not my neighbor's yard?

Answer from Allo:

During the design phase, the engineering team determines the most efficient way to provide service. They select the least intrusive intersecting rear property point as the general location for a pedestal which is often in the center of four property corners. From that point, the pedestal location is thoughtfully identified based on the following factors:

Existing underground utilities.
Location of the underground conduit that will feed the pedestal.
Proximity to other pedestals.
Landscape features and/or obstructions.
Ease of accessibility for crews to construct and maintain the network.

17. Do I need to mark my sprinklers to avoid damage?: Answer from Allo: Marking sprinklers in advance of construction is certainly helpful but not mandatory.

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Board of Trustees

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1. How do I contact the Mayor or Board of Trustees?

The Board of Trustees are not full-time employees of the Town. For the most expeditious reply, please email Town Staff at contactus@erieco.gov. This is also the best place to ask any administrative or process questions.

For policy questions, or other comments directed at the Board, you may email the Board of Trustees or call 303-926-2777 to leave the Board a voicemail. Follow the prompts to leave a message for the entire board or individual members. For individual email addresses visit the Board of Trustees webpage.

2. How long are the terms for Mayor and Trustees?

The Mayor serves a two-year term and the six other Trustees serve staggered four-year terms. The Town of Erie conducts its regular municipal election in April of even-numbered years. During regular municipal elections, registered voters elect a Mayor to serve a two-year term, and three Trustees to serve four-year terms.

This could change in the event that the Town decides to pursue a Home Rule Charter.

3. Can I address the Board during Board of Trustees meetings?: Yes. Public Comment during regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meetings is available for each person to speak for three minutes. Each meeting includes a Public Comment agenda item to provide the public an opportunity to discuss items that are not on the agenda. The Board of Trustees is not prepared to decide on matters brought up during Public Comment, but if warranted, will place them on a future agendas for further discussion or decisions. View Board of Trustee Agendas.

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Building Codes

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1. 2015 I-Codes

The following I-Codes will be active through April 1, 2023* and will be used for projects which began the permitting and approval process prior to the date, but have not yet been completed.

Code Amendments

2015 Code Update and Amendments

*A grace period has been put in place to extend the use of these codes through fall 2023

2. 2021 I-Codes

*A grace period has been enacted to allow for the previous 2015 I-Codes to be utilized while all involved parties prepare for implementation of 2021 Codes. These codes will be the mandatory codes to follow beginning in fall 2023.

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Business Licenses

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1. Who is required to have a Colorado sales tax license?

Erie is a statutory Town and its sales tax is collected by the State of Colorado. Colorado imposes a sales tax on retail sales/rental/lease of tangible personal property, prepared food and drink, and certain services, as well as the furnishing of rooms and accommodations.

Wholesale sales are not subject to sales tax.
Generally, any retailer that is required to collect Colorado sales tax must obtain and maintain a Colorado Sales tax license, collect and remit sales tax to the State.

When a business applies for a State Sales tax license, it will be assigned a 12 digit-number. The first eight digits make up your Colorado Account Number (CAN) and the last four is the Site/Branch ID. Please provide the 12-digit number on your Erie Business License Application. If this is not available at the time of Business License Registration, please follow-up with Erie Finance Department within five business days after you receive a State Sales Tax License.

Licenses are non-transferable. A separate sales tax license is required for each separate physical location. For more information on how to apply for a Sales tax License, visit https://tax.colorado.gov/how-to-apply-for-a-colorado-sales-tax-license.

2. Is it necessary to display my sales tax license at my place of business?: Yes. After receiving your local license, post it in a prominent location inside your business along with your State sales tax license. This is required by State Statute. Posting tells your customer you are licensed to collect the sales tax and it allows for easy verification of licensing by inspectors.

3. What is the total sales tax rate in Erie?

The Town of Erie sales tax rate is 3.5%. Depending on where the retail sale is sourced in, the total sales tax rate will vary.

Visit a map to look up sales tax rate by address. Type in the delivery address in the search bar. In general, a sale takes place within Erie if it is delivered to the purchaser at a location within Erie.

You can also visit the Colorado State Geographic Information System to look up tax rate for location outside of Erie: https://colorado.ttr.services/.

Below is an excerpt from the Colorado Sales Tax Guide on “destination sourcing rules” when determining which sales tax rate applies to the transaction:

If the purchaser takes possession of the purchased property or first uses the purchased service at the seller’s business location, the sale is sourced to that business location.
If the property or service is delivered to the purchaser at a location other than seller’s business location, the sale is sourced to the location the purchaser receives the purchased property or first uses the purchased service.
If the purchaser requests delivery of the property or service to another person, as a bona fide gift from the purchaser, the sale is sourced to the location that person takes possession of the purchased property or first uses the purchased service.

These sourcing rules do not apply to leased property. See Department Publication Sales & Use Tax Topics: Leases for sourcing rules for lease payments.

4. If my place of business is outside of Erie, do I have to collect Erie sales tax?: Yes, if you deliver goods and taxable services to the purchasers at a location within Erie.

5. What are some other resources to explain sale tax?

Erie Website Sales Tax information: www.erieco.gov/136/Sales-Tax-Information
One-stop shop to start a Business in Colorado: MyBiz.Colorado.gov
Sign up for a free Business tax class at: https://tax.colorado.gov/business-tax-class
State Sales and Use tax website: https://tax.colorado.gov/sales-use-tax.
Colorado Sales Tax Guide & publications: https://tax.colorado.gov/sales-use-tax-guidance-publications
Revenue Online Portal: https://www.colorado.gov/revenueonline/

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Camp Erie

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1. When can I register for summer camp?: Erie residents may register for Camp on Monday, February 28 at 7a.m. - Non-residents may register for Camp on Monday, March 7 at 7 a.m.

2. How can I register for Camp Erie?: You can register online or in person at Guest Service at the Erie Community Center. Please note that over the phone registrations will not be accepted. - Be sure to set up your new Amilia account if you haven’t already. You can do so online here or with any one of our Guest Service representatives over the phone or in person at the Erie Community Center (450n Powers Street).

3. What are the Camp Erie dates and times?: Camp Erie will run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m.. The first day of Camp is Tuesday, May 31 and will end on Friday, August 5.

4. How much does camp cost? Are there payment plans available for my camper?: For Erie residents the total cost for Camp will be $1750/camper; non-residents Camp will cost $2187.50/camper. Payment plans will be available for parents upon request at Guest Services. A $50 non-refundable deposit will be due at time of registration. The deposit helps fund weekly games/activities, assemblies, and your child’s camp shirt.

5. What are the payment plan dates?: A $50 non-refundable deposit will be due at time of registration. From there, you can choose to pay the remaining balance upfront or enroll in a payment plan. The remaining balance of $1700 will be withdrawn from a credit card we have on file on the following 10 dates: May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24, July 1, July 8, July 15, July 22, and July 29.

6. Will there be field trips?: Yes, local field trips and/or assemblies will be offered most weeks this summer.

7. Will campers be allowed to swim this summer?: Yes, we are planning on doing swim times throughout the week for our campers. Detailed swim time information will be available at our Parent Meeting scheduled on May 5. Please note that this could change at any point during the summer, so please visit our Camp Erie website for the most up-to-date news and information.

8. What is Camp Erie doing to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus?

Camp has been working diligently with Weld and Boulder County Health Departments, the Colorado Department of Public Health, and the state of Colorado Department of Childcare to ensure a healthy and safe atmosphere for your camper.

Camp has adopted updated cleaning, social distancing, daily temperature checks, symptom monitoring, contact tracing, and sanitizing procedures
Participants will be placed in cohorts of less than 10 campers/group.
Facial masks are mandatory and must be worn by all Camp staff, campers, and anyone utilizing the Erie Community Center or Aspen Ridge Preparatory School.

9. What happens if my camper, another camper, or staff member contracts COVID-19?: Camp Erie is committed to following the most current and up-to-date information released by the CDC and CDPHE. With the dynamic nature of this pandemic and virus, this information is subject to change and will be updated as soon as possible. Please be patient with us as we get updates at the same time you do!

10. What’s new with Camp Erie this summer?

Brand new weekly themes and assemblies!
Easier registration and payment plan process through Amilia registration software.
Please be sure to set up your Amilia family account here.
New payment plan processing dates.

11. Are there any other options for camp other than full-summer registration?

Camp Erie has reached capacity (per state licensing requirements) each of the past six summers and we have not been able to provide for all families in need of full and part-time care. We made the difficult decision to only offer full-summer registration based on feedback received and the belief that it provides for the greatest need of full-time care. We also believe this creates the best camp experience for each child as they get to know each other and their counselors very well without the introduction of new children every week.

Understanding there are many families in your situation that only need part-time care, we have worked very hard to improve and increase part-time camp options. These include many single day, single week, full and half-day camps in arts & crafts, enrichment, climbing, dance, sports, and STEM activities.

12. What is Camp Erie’s refund policy?: 100% refund if requested prior to the registration deadline minus the $50 non-refundable deposit. Refunds requested after the registration deadline are not guaranteed but will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. All refunds are subject to a $5 processing fee (excludes household credits). The registration deadline for summer camp is Monday, April 25. Refunds will not be given for missed days, vacations, sickness, or any other unplanned emergencies. - In the event that there is a COVID-19 outbreak through Camp in which the facilities need to be temporarily closed, prorated refunds will be given.

13. Will I be able to apply for a refund if my camper is sick for a week or on a family vacation?: Unfortunately, we do not offer single day/week refunds for camps. However, we have adjusted our prices to reflect that campers may miss a few days due to illness, emergencies, and preplanned family vacations.

14. What are the weekly themes and assemblies for this summer?

Week	Weekly Theme	Assembly or Field Trip	Fantastic Friday Theme	Payment Plan Date
1	ColoRADo	N/A	Wear something ColoRADo	May 27 ($170/camper)
2	Pirates & Mermaids	Block Party (life-sized legos)	Having fun on the high seas	June 3 ($170/camper)
3	Insects and Bugs, oh my!	Butterfly Pavillion	Dress like your favorite bug!	June 10 ($170/camper)
4	Mustaches & Wigs	Butterfly Effect Theatre	Dress the part! (wig or disguise, or something fun!)	June 17 ($170/camper)
5	Holidaze	TBD	Dress as your favorite holiday	June 24 ($170/camper)
6	Suns Out 4 Summer	Union Reservoir - Longmont	4th of July Dress Down	July 1 ($170/camper)
7	Heroes & Villains	Denver Museum of Nature and Science	Dress as the hero or villain of your favorite story	July 8 ($170/camper)
8	Animal Planet	Denver Aquarium	Dress as an explorer or your favorite animal	July 15 ($170/camper)
9	Color Warz	Water Park	Wear your favorite color	July 22 ($170/camper)
10	Disney	Elitches	Brightest clothes you own, and sunglasses!	July 29 ($170/camper)

List updated May 9, 2022

Please note that themes and assemblies are subject to change. All information will be updated here throughout the summer.

15. What is Camp Erie ’s tax identification number?: Camp Erie’s tax identification number is 84-0198350.

16. What does my camper need to bring to camp every day?: Campers must bring (and wear) a face mask, balanced and nutritious lunch, two snacks, a water bottle, sunscreen, a towel/swimsuit (on swim days), and an extra pair of clothes in the event of a spill or accident. Additionally, please make sure that all of your belongings are clearly marked and labeled.

17. Are there sibling discounts or returning camper discounts available for families?: At this point, we do not currently offer sibling discounts or returning camper discounts for families.

18. Will the campers be divided into groups by age?: Yes! Campers will be broken up into groups by their age. Participants will also be divided into smaller groups of no more than 12 participants. This allows for all campers to participate and activities along with similarly aged peers.

19. Are there separate locations for each of the age groups?: Absolutely! Campers will be split into groups based off of their age. Camp Erie will utilize both the Erie Community Center and Aspen Ridge Preparatory School.

20. How does swim time work?

We anticipate being able to use our aquatics area this summer. However, this could change at any point during the summer. As it currently stands, swim time will work as follows:

Campers will be given the opportunity to swim Wednesdays and Fridays every week during the summer. For the safety of your camper and the safety of other Community Center members, all campers will be required to take a swim test with one of our certified aquatics personnel. Based off of your campers swimming capabilities, they will be given one of three wrist bands that corresponds with their swimming ability. Please note that for safety reasons, at no time will campers be allowed access to the hot tub.
- Red - Full access to the zero depth entry pool and play area.
- Yellow - Full access to any area of the pool where their feet can safely touch; depending on the height of your camper, this may include the lazy river and slide.
- Green - Full access to the pool and pool amenities including: the deep end, pool swing, lazy river, and slide.
If you, or your camper are dissatisfied with their assigned swim wristband, they are eligible to retake the swim test during their next swim time. Please note that retaking the swim test may cut into your campers swim time and no guarantee can be made that they will be assigned a different swim bracelet color.

21. Can my camper use floaties or a swim vest?: Unfortunately, floaties and swim vests will not be allowed. Erie Community Center pool rules require children who use floaties or swim vests to be within arm’s reach of an adult or in this case, Camp staff member, at all times. To ensure the safety of all campers, we will not allow campers to use these items. Campers who would need floaties or a swim vest will be limited to the zero depth pool.

22. Where do the campers get dropped off and picked up each day?

Camp activities begin at 9:30 a.m. and ends at 4:30 p.m. each day. Before and after care is available at no additional cost and is included in your registration fees. Before care will begin at 7 a.m., and after care will end at 6 p.m..

Sign-In and Sign-Out Locations:

At Aspen Ridge Preparatory School: West entrance under the awning (please look for our check-in/out table and staff member)
At the Erie Community Center: Erie Community Center roundabout (please look for our blue tent, check-in/out table, and staff member)

*Only those indicated as an Authorized Pick-Up person on forms will be allowed to sign-out the campers. Please be sure to bring a valid photo ID for drop off and pick up*

23. What are the qualifications and trainings for the summer camp counselors?: We follow the guidelines set by the Colorado Child Care Licensing Standards for camp staff screening and training. Camp staff are at least 16 years of age with most being 18+. All camp staff are CPR, First Aid and AED certified and receive certification in Universal Precautions. Additionally, camp staff are also thoroughly background checked. Prior to the start of Camp Erie, camp staff attend 20 hours of mandatory training on various topics including: camp policies, safety training, facilitating games, behavior management, and learning how to work successfully with children.

24. What are my options if Camp Erie fills up?

If Camp Erie fills up there are a few options listed below:

You may put your camper on our Camp Erie 2022 waitlist. While there is no 100% guarantee that we will be able to get your child enrolled in Camp, it doesn’t hurt to place your child on the waitlist as some participants drop out of Camp prior to our Monday, April 25 registration deadline. If your child is selected off the waitlist, you will be contacted by the Recreation Coordinator – Youth and Families. At that point, you will have 24 hours following notification to complete the registration process before the next participant on the waitlist is contacted.
You may enroll your camper in our other part-time or full-time summer camps. To check availability please register online at erieco.gov/ParksAndRec or in person with Guest Service at the Erie Community Center.
You may enroll your camper in other local summer camps. Please visit our Camp Erie website for additional links and information.

25. Additional Questions?: Please contact Austin Russell, Recreation Coordinator - Youth and Families, at 303-926-2797 or email youthandfamilies@erieco.gov.

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Candidate FAQs

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1. Have we removed the provision for political signs from the Town municipal code?: Question from Info Session Participant Andrew Sawausch: Have we removed the provision for political signs from the Town municipal code?

Answer: A note about signs - political or otherwise: They cannot be placed within public right-of-ways for safety reasons. There is a clear code related to this that is also in the Town UDC Code. More details specifically related to political signs to come.

2. Is there a background check to run for office?

Question from Info Meeting participant CW: Is there a background check for office?

Answer: There is no requirement for a background check in the Town of Erie's code as they relate to candidates running for election. The current restrictions in the Town code are:

You may not run if you are a current Town employee.
You may not run if you hold another elected office at the local, state, or federal level.
You may not run if you have current litigation against the Town.

3. Does a previous conviction disqualify someone from running?

Question from Info Session Participant CW: Does a previous conviction disqualify someone from running?

Answer: Having a prior conviction does not disqualify someone from running for office in the Town of Erie.

4. How many Candidate Petitions can a person sign?

Question from Info Session Participant Brandon Bell: How many Candidate Petitions can a person sign? One for each open position?

Answer: Yes, a person can sign a Candidate Petition for as many positions as there are open. So for this election we have three open Trustee seats which means a person could sign three Candidate Petitions. If someone signs more than that, the Petitions signed the latest will be removed. If all were signed on the same date, all signatures are invalidated.

5. Are there any campaign contribution limits or restrictions on spending?

Question from Info Meeting Participant Jeff Percell: Are there any campaign contribution limits or restrictions on spending?

Answer: There are no limits on contributions to candidates. The only caveat is that if you are receiving physical cash, it cannot be more than $100 for any given donation because there has to be a paper trail. For expenditures, you must track those and complete the expenditure reporting forms with all the details about about what funding has been used for.

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Charter Commission Summaries

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1. April 13, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

The Charter Commission Chari provided the following update and summary:

The April 13 Meeting was #18 for the Home Rule Commission. And that was the final working meeting. Next week (April 20, 2023) the Commission will meet to do a final review review for typos and grammar issues, vote on the resolution approving the Charter for the ballot, and sign the proposed Charter in preparation for it being put on the November 2023 ballot.

Then on the following Tuesday (April 25, 2023) the Commission will present the Charter to the Board of Trustees as the final step as the Home Rule Charter Commission. I'd like to thank everyone who put in public comments and attended any meeting, or answered any of our public outreach efforts. The constant feedback from Erie residents helped us immensely during this process.

Here's a summary of the major draft decisions made at yesterday's meeting.

Set up the transition so that an entirely new Council will be elected in November of 2024, to create a clean break from Statutory Erie and move directly into Home Rule Erie.
Most of April 13 was spent on final intent and wording clarity.
Reviewed the resolution we will be voting on next week to ensure it meets the intentions of the Home Rule Commission. Passage of this resolution will be the official action the Commission are taking to finalize the text of the Charter to be voted on in November 2023.

Again, thank you everyone who has been following along and making this process run more smoothly than we Commissioners alone could have.

2. March 30, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

March 30, 2023 was Meeting #16 for the Home Rule Charter Commission. Next week (April 6) will be the required Public Hearing for the Home Rule Charter Commission.

A summary from the Charter Commission Chair of the major draft decisions is below. Note that these decisions are still subject to change.

Items in the Charter have been rearranged for a more logical flow, and have separated sections to be better grouped for similar topics.
The Commission decided to keep redistricting to the 10-year Census timeline to be as legally airtight as possible. Based on population growth projections, this can be planned to stay within the 10% population threshold discussed previously.
The group removed the "intent" topic that was added to each section in order to keep the document as cleanly legal as possible.
The entire Town Council will be elected in November 2024, to be seated in January 2025. This was done to ensure each of the new districts has an equal say in electing their representatives under the new system.
- If we allowed the two Trustees with terms expiring in 2026 to remain, they'd have to be assigned to a district and those districts would not get a say in at least one of their representatives, and potentially both if both Trustees ended up in the same district.
- To maintain staggered terms, the Councilor with the most votes in the November 2024 election in each district will be seated for 4 years, and the runner up will be seated for a 2 year term.
The Charter will be leaving Councilor pay as it is currently (set by ordinance) and proposing alternative language that will be placed on the ballot along side the vote to approve the Charter.
- The alternative language will propose setting pay to $1,200/mo for Mayor (up from $500/mo), and $700/mo for Councilors (up from $300/mo), with a yearly increase tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for our area.
- Remove from the Council the ability to set their own pay by ordinance.
Reviewed the presentation we will be giving to the Board of Trustees on April 25. The presentation can be found on the agenda for this meeting.

April 6 will be the required Public Hearing, where public comment will be taken on the Charter in its most updated form. Please attend and provide comment if you can.

3. March 23, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair is forthcoming.

DRAFT statements of intention for creation of the Town of Erie Charter

4. March 16, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

A summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

Here's a summary of the major draft decisions made at the meeting. Note that these decisions are still subject to change.

Charter will call out the Planning Commission and the Board of Adjustments as two boards/commissions that are required by State law.
Charter will allow the Town the ability to levy fines higher than that allowed to us as statutory towns. Any fines would still have to be set by ordinance.
Adding a trigger for redistricting (if any one district becomes 10% larger than the smallest district). The 10% threshold is tentative until we have a chance to look at historical population data for Erie. We don't want to have to redistrict every year, for example.

The Commission is in the final stages of drafting this charter, with the big elements all present. The next few weeks will be for cleaning up language and seeing if there's anything missing. If there's anything you'd like to see included in the draft Charter that we haven't discussed, now is the time to make your voices heard! We hope to hear from as many people as possible.

5. March 9, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

The Charter had an extended conversation with the Planning Commission chair and Town staff about the Unified Development Code (UDC) and the Comprehensive Plan, to decide if any aspect other than the existence of the Planning Commission should be in the Charter. After the discussion, it was decided by all parties that leaving the specific powers and rights of the Commission up to ordinance was the best tactic.
We made a lot of minor wording and intent changes for various things, such as how campaign finance ordinances should be written.
We allow the Council to have voice votes for non-monetary issues, and any Councillor can call for a roll-call vote for any matter if desired.
Final presentation (to the Town and to the Board of Trustees) of the completed Charter will tentatively occur on Thursday, April 20, at our Commission's regular meeting, with it being a special meeting of the Board of Trustees as well. This would be the draft version that will be voted on in November.

We are in the final stages of drafting this Charter, with the big elements all present. The next few weeks will be for cleaning up language and seeing if there's anything we missed. If there's anything you'd like to see included in the Charter that we haven't discussed or talked, now's the time to make your voices heard. We hope to hear from as many people as possible!

Please remember that decisions are not yet final and will be up for discussion again until the final Draft is submitted in May. Questions or comments can be submitted to the Charter Commission through an online form. Members of the public can also plan to attend in-person engagement meetings the third Thursday of the month.

6. March 2, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

Erie will have 3 districts with 2 Councillors each, serving staggered terms. The Mayor will be elected at large.
We will hold elections in November of even years.
Current sitting Trustees whose terms will expire in April 2024 will have their terms extended until the new Council is elected in November 2024, at which point the entire Board of Trustees will be dissolved, to be replaced by the Town Council.

There was a lot of discussion and reasoning that went into these decisions. If you'd like to see the discussion that went into it, please consider watching the full meeting.

7. Feb. 16, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

Selling water rights would require a vote of citizens to approve.
We have finalized the Open Space section in keeping with the values of the Town. Notably, selling or rezoning open space would require a vote of all citizens. Review this section.
The Commission has been assigned homework to research how the transition period should look as far as the continuity of elected officials.
We have approved a tentative preamble for the charter. This will be published in next week's agenda packet.

8. Feb. 9, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

We have codified the independence of the Town's municipal court system from elected officials and from police (our current court reports up to the police department and falls under their budgetary authority).
We are seeking legal advice on how to protect the Town's water rights from being sold or given away.

9. Feb. 2, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

TABOR's requirement for a general vote for any and all tax increases will continue to apply to our Town even if the state repeals it.
The Charter will not include any new taxes, so any future taxes will need to come to the residents of Erie separately, per TABOR.
The budget, expenditure reports, and the yearly audit reports will be required to be conveniently available for residents to read.
The Town will maintain an open space and trails fund and an open space and trails board.
We are seeking legal advice on how to codify protections against predatory special districts.

10. Jan. 26, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

Initiatives and referendum petitions will require 5% of registered voters of the town to sign.
Recall petitions for elected officials will require signatures equal to 25% of the votes cast for that position in the most recent regular election. Second recall petitions (if the first fails) would require 50% of the votes cast.
Appointing and removing the Town Manager will require a majority vote of the Council in office.

11. Jan. 19, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

We have settled on three districts with two Councilors from each, to ensure a representative sample of Erie is elected to the Council and to simplify elections.
Any Councilor vacancies shall be filled by automatic appointment of the person with the next highest votes for the office in question if the vacancy occurs less than 180 days after an election. If there is no one who ran who can or wants to fill the position, then a special election is ordered. If the vacancy occurs after 180 days from the election, the seat will remain open until the next regular election.
If the Mayor position becomes vacant, the Mayor Pro Tem becomes Mayor, and the new Mayor's now-vacant Council position is filled by the above process.
We will be putting out more surveys to solicit feedback on certain topics, hosted here on the Charter Commission page.

12. Jan. 12, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

A summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

An emergency ordinance will require a 2/3 vote of the Council (and no less than 5 votes) to pass.
The Town Council will be able to change how current ordinances and notices are published, as long as the publishing method is easily accessible for all residents (i.e. website). Current statutes require that ordinances be published in a physical newspaper. This change will save the town time, overhead, and money.

View the recording of the Jan. 12 meeting.

13. Jan. 5, 2023 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Below is a summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

We are writing two subsections on what defines a vacancy on the Council and how to fill them, to be presented at a future meeting. The intent is to have a hard-defined process to avoid uncertainty and bias.
We have defined a line of succession, going from Mayor to Mayor Pro Tem, through the Council by seniority, and then to the Town appointed officials (Town Administrator, Town Attorney, Municipal Judge, Town Prosecutor)
The Town Prosecutor is being added to the Charter
The above appointed officials will be required to report to the Council periodically
The Town Clerk will be required to have a supply of all petitions required for conducting a regular candidate election to make it easier for candidates to file their signatures and financial disclosures.
We will be adding definitions for "emergency", "administrative personnel", "consultants", and "town officers" to the definitions section.

View the recording of the Jan. 5 meeting.

14. Dec. 15, 2022 - Summary of discussion/decisions

Below is a summary from the Charter Commission Chair:
We will have 6 councilors and a mayor. The mayor will be elected at-large (entire town), and we will have some number of districts for the councilors. Specifics are still being discussed, but current proposals are 3 districts with 2 councilors each, or 4 districts with one councilor each and 2 councilors elected at-large.
Districts will be roughly equal population, contiguous, and compact (no gerrymandering). Redistricting will occur on a set schedule (5 or 10 years), and can be triggered if one district grows too much larger than the others.
25 signatures will be required to appear on the ballot for any position in a district, and 50 for any of the at-large positions.
All positions will be elected to 4 year terms, staggering them so some are elected every 2 years.
We have proposed an increase in pay for elected officials in the interest of expanding our candidate pool. Councillors will be paid $1000/mo (up from $300/mo), and the mayor $1500/mo (up from $500/mo), with yearly increases tied to the same CPI metric the town uses for contractor pay. This will also remove from the Council the power to set or change their own pay.
We will be writing a more clearly defined section on vacancies on the Council, and how those vacancies will be filled.
We will be writing an Ethics and Transparency section into the charter.

Please remember that decisions are not yet final and will be up for discussion again until the final Draft is submitted in May. Questions or comments can be submitted to the Charter Commission through an online form. Members of the public can also plan to attend in-person engagement meetings the third Thursday of the month beginning in January. 
View the recording of the Dec. 15 meeting.

15. Dec. 8, 2022 - Summary of discussions/decisions

Below is a summary from the Charter Commission Chair:

We will remain the Town of Erie.
We will remain a council/manager form of government, and the elected officials will be known as the Town Councilrather than the Board of Trustees.
- Note: the size of the Council has not yet been decided.
We will move our elections to November with the option to coordinate with county or state elections (meaning a single ballot for all rather than separate town ballots). This will save the Town a lot of money (per the Town Clerk). We are still discussing whether the elections will be in odd-numbered years or even-numbered years.
Council members will be seated in the new year after election certification, rather than the first regular meeting after certification, since those meetings are typically canceled anyways due to the holidays.

View the recording of the Dec. 8 meeting.

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Clean-Up Days

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1. Is shredding available?: Shredding service is available during the fall clean-up event only from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. (or until the truck is full) at LAWS Service Center (150 Bonnell). A limit of two banker box sized loads per resident.

2. Are TVs accepted?: TVs are accepted at the LAW Service Center (150 Bonnell Ave) from 8 am - 2 pm only. The disposal will cost a flat fee of $20 per TV, payable at the time of drop off directly to the vendor.
https://www.colorado.gov/cdphe/ewaste

3. Can I put my items on the curb for pick up?: No. Any items that will not fit in your regular waste bins should be dropped off at an appropriate location. All services offered during regular cleanup day events are offered either at the LAW Service Center (150 Bonnell Ave) or the Front Range Landfill.

4. Is there a place to dispose of paint?: Paint can be taken to one of the household hazardous waste facilities throughout the year. Click for more information:
Household Hazardous Waste

5. What electronics are accepted at cleanup events?: During the Town's cleanup events, we partner with 3R Technology Solutions. They accept: Adding Machines, All-in-One PCs, Cameras, CD Players, Cell Phones, Copiers, CRT Monitors, Desktop Phones, DVD – VCRs, DVRs, Fax Machines, Flat Panel Monitors, Game Consoles, Gaming, Systems, Hard Drives, Hubs, Keyboards, Laptops, Mice, Modems, MP3 Players, Network Switches, Optical Drives, PCs, Phone Systems, Printers, Remote Controls Routers, Servers, Software – Games, Stereos – Speakers, Surge Protectors, Toner, Two-way Radios, Typewriters, UPS.

6. Will there be a place to donate lawn mowers and glass shower doors?

Fall 2021: Yes. Lawn mowers can be donated during the metal recycling option on Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the LAWS Center. Please make sure all the gas is removed.

Glass doors with metal framing can also be donated on Sept. 11 at the metal and electronics recycling event. Wood-framed doors can be taken to the landfill.

7. Are boats accepted at the landfill?: Yes, but will be subject to appropriate charges.

8. Does the landfill accept mattresses?: Yes.

9. What about bath tubs, toilets, and hot tubs?: All are accepted at the landfill.

10. Is there a full list of items that the landfill accepts?: Click here to go to the Front Range website and see what items are accepted.

11. What small appliances are accepted at the landfill?: Small appliances would include microwaves, toasters, blenders, coffee machines, and George Foreman-type grills.

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Community Development

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1. I run a small business out of my home. Do I need a Business License?: Yes. Erie Municipal Code requires anyone doing business in the Town be licensed by the Town. Business Licenses

2. Who do I contact to report a building code violation?: Please contact the Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Officer at 303-926-2783.

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Community Survey

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1. How did you get my address?: The National Research Center is contracted with the Town of Erie to conduct this survey. Your address was sampled at random from a list of all addresses from the post office. This is a standard service offered by the post office. It is not a Town of Erie government file and no household member is named in the file.

2. What is the purpose of requesting the person who most recently had a birthday complete the survey?: We have randomly selected households within our jurisdiction to receive the survey. We would also like to choose in an unbiased way a person within each household to complete the survey. This way we ensure the results are representative of our community as a whole. While it may seem a bit strange, using the “birthday method” is a simple way to select an adult from within each household without permitting bias in our results.

3. The person in my household who most recently had a birthday, is not very informed about the issues covered in the survey. Can someone else in my household who is more informed take the survey.: We would prefer that the person in your household who most recently had a birthday complete the survey. The “birthday method” described in the letter creates the most representative sample of our jurisdiction. You’ll be surprised at how much you can contribute.

4. I received your survey, and while I own the property that it was sent to, I don’t live there. What should I do?: The resident of the property should complete the survey.

5. I live outside of the Town of Erie. Should I complete the survey?: No. Please discard the survey. Unfortunately, the mailing lists provided by the post office do not exactly match municipal boundaries, and some addresses outside our boundaries were included. You may receive one or two other mailings associated with this project. Please discard those as well. You will not receive any other mailings after that from us.

6. I doubt that you are interested in my opinion, since I rarely leave my home. Should I really complete the survey?: Yes, the Town of Erie government is here to serve all residents, and it is important to us that we get results from a complete cross-section of our residents.

7. Why did you send each household 2 surveys?: It is an industry best management practice that multiple contacts increases the response rates. Each household will receive a postcard announcement telling you to watch for a paper survey, a survey packet and a reminder packet.

8. If I filled out the survey when I first received it, should I fill it out again now that I have received a second copy?: No, please don’t fill it out again. Since we only want one response from each person, those who already sent in a survey should not return another one. The second copy is distributed only as a reminder to complete and return your survey. Thank you for completing the first survey.

9. I was not sent a survey, but I would be happy to complete one, and I think you should be interested in my opinion.: An opt-in online survey will be available on the Town’s website to all residents. If your household did not receive a survey in the mail, you are encouraged to participate in the online survey.

10. Can we rely on the results of the survey?: Yes. The Town of Erie Community Survey is a scientific survey conducted by the National Research Center (NRC). NRC has over 20 years conducting survey research for local governments and literally wrote the book on citizen surveying. The survey has a statistically valid margin of error of +/- 3%. With this margin of error, you may conclude that when 60% of survey respondents report that a particular service is “excellent” or “good” somewhere between 57% and 63% of all Erie residents are likely to feel the same way.

11. What will be done with the results?

Information obtained through the survey will assist the Town of Erie Board of Trustees and Town staff with:

Monitoring trends in resident opinion
Measuring government performance
Assessing support for local policies
Informing budget, land use, strategic planning decisions
Communicating with residents
Benchmarking service ratings

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Drug Take-Back Day

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1. What medications or drugs are accepted?

Accepted
The following items are accepted at the Medication Take-Back events:

Prescription drugs
Over-the-counter medications
Epi-pens (needle must be closed)
Liquid form

NOT Accepted
The following items are NOT accepted at the Medication Take-Back events:

Radioactive
Sharp needles like syringes.
Illegal substances

2. Is the event Free?

The Medication Take-Back events are FREE!

There is no need to purchase a bag for this event.

If you will need to dispose of drugs safely and cannot make it to an event, we offer small plastic bags with return postage paid for $4.20.

3. Am I required to purchase a drug bag?: There is no need to purchase a bag for this event.

If you will need to dispose of drugs safely and cannot make it to an event, we offer small plastic bags with return postage paid for $4.20.

4. Do we need to remove labels from bottles?: We do not require labels to be removed. The drugs collected (and their bottles) are incinerated which removes any ability to trace any medication back to an individual.

5. Are liquid medications allowed?: Yes! We do accept liquid prescriptions at the Medication Take-Back events.

6. Do you accept vitamins?: Yes, we do accept unwanted vitamins at the Medication Take-Back events.

7. Do you accept pet medications?: Yes! We do accept pet medications at the Medication Take-Back event.

8. Do you accept 'sharps'?: No, we cannot accept sharps - unless they are still with the medicine in the original packaging.

9. Can we drop-off medications anytime?

The Police Department only accepts medications twice a year in one-day (four-hour events) in the Spring and Fall.

Outside of the events, we offer an envelope for you to mail medications for a fee of pre-paid postage $4.20.

You might consider other programs listed on https://www.erieco.gov/1336/Medication-Take-Back

10. Do medications need to be in the original prescription bottle?

No. Medications do not need to be in any packaging at all. Or, medications can be in packaging.

You're welcome to keep the packaging, or bring it as well for safely disposing. The medications are collected by Erie Police Evidence Technicians, who then pass directly to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) who then use an incinerator.

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Electric Vehicles

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1. Why should I consider an electric vehicle?

The more our community upgrades to electric vehicles, the less tailpipe emissions there will be and the better the Town’s air quality will become. EVs also have many cost benefits, are fun to drive, and are more energy efficient than conventional vehicles due to the fact that:

EVs do not emit tailpipe pollutants and because of this contribute to better local air quality.
The cost of maintaining EVs is minimal compared to traditional vehicles.
Cost comparison of miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and miles per gallon of gasoline or diesel show significant cost savings while driving an EV.
As an owner of an EV, you will know your carbon footprint is less than a non-EV driver.
With more public charging stations being activated each month and the freedom to charge your vehicle at your own home, there is no need to go to a gas station anymore.

Erie’s Sustainability Plan identifies “Encouraging the use of electric vehicles by providing incentive to purchase vehicles and installing publicly available charging stations” as a priority in the Transportation Sector and “Increasing the share of electric vehicles registered in the community by 25% by 2025 (with a stretch goal of 50%)" as a target.

2. Is the Town electrifying its fleet of vehicles?: Absolutely! The Town currently has three electric vehicles and, “Switch(ing) government fleet vehicles to electric vehicles or other high-efficiency vehicles within the replacement cycle (or sooner) and when appropriate models are available” is a High Priority Level Strategy in the Sustainability Plan’s Transportation Sector.

3. How can I learn more about switching to an EV?: You can take advantage of our local EnergySmart EV advising which provides an expert to walk you through what options are right for you, including tax credits and charging options. Contact EnergySmart for one-on-one help to answer questions, assess your needs, and receive expert advice from a non-biased, non-sales person.

4. What is an electric vehicle?

An Electric Vehicle (EV) is a type of vehicle that runs on electricity, powered by rechargeable battery packs. There are two main types of EVs:

Battery electric vehicle - all power is stored in a battery.
Hybrid electric vehicles - have a down-sized internal combustion engine in addition to the battery.

5. What is the first step to researching EVs?: Each individual dealer should have the most updated tax credit information, costs, and savings. Before you visit a dealer, if you are interested in comparing prices of total cost of ownership (TCO) you can visit Drive Electric NoCo. TOC is more accurate than MSRP because it shows the full cost of ownership and operation of the vehicle over five years.

6. How much tax credit is available for EVs?

Charging Station Credits

Erie residents and businesses that install electric vehicle charging stations may be eligible for a federal tax credit* for Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property. This may include a credit of up to $1,000 for the purchase and installation of a charging station for personal use. Additionally, federal law allows a 30% percent tax credit, capped at $30,000, for business/investment use per site.

Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit: IRS Form 8911
*This credit is not available to towns, cities, schools, or other non-taxpayers.

Vehicle Credits

Fueleconomy.gov offers an updated list of tax credits per vehicle that you can visit. Plugstar also offers a database of tax credits in our area.

7. Are there reduced financing options for EVs?: Local Credit Unions such as Colorado's Clean Energy Credit Union is pleased to announce that they now offer EV and Hybrid auto loan rates as low as 2.39% for qualifying members. Check out the current rates and learn how you can take advantage of them to purchase or refinance a clean energy vehicle. New members can also qualify for this rate, so spread the news to fellow clean energy enthusiasts.

8. Are EVs as safe as combustible engine vehicles?: Yes, EVs are held to the same national safety standards. Charging your EV is just as safe as charging your cell phone.

9. How do I charge my car at home?

Charging at home is easy. You can use a regular three prong outlet and charge your EV when you get home in the evening and let your car charge overnight just like your cell phone. This regular outlet charge will meet your needs so long as your usually drive 30 miles or less per day. More than 80% of Coloradans travel less than 30 miles per day and this option may work for you.

If you drive more than 30 miles most days, consider installing a more powerful electric car charger at home. These are called “Level 2” chargers. Search online for “home electric vehicle charger”. You can find these chargers on Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and more. Common chargers include: Juicebox 48, ChargePoint Home Flex, and ClipperCreek LCS-30P. You will need to hire an electrician to install the charger. Once the charger is installed, plug your car in!

For qualified electricians near you, Plugstar also provides a database for use: https://plugstar.com/electricians

10. What does a home charger cost?: The cost varies with different brands of chargers, labor, and need for any electrical upgrades. On average, installation of a Level 2 charger at home may cost between $400-$1,000. If your EV home charging unit requires an increase in size of your electrical panel’s main breaker, please check with your electric utility for costs associated with modifying your electrical service.

11. Do you need a building permit to install a charger?: Yes, an Electrical Permit is required to install an electric vehicle charger in a home.

12. How does EV charging affect my electric bill?

The charging cost associated with an EV is about the same or less than the cost required to operate an average central air conditioner or water heater for a few hours. Charging during off-peak hours (overnight) maximizes your cost savings.

The cost depends on several factors such as how depleted your EV battery is when you plug it in, if you’re charging during on-peak or off-peak hours, and what your kWh rate is with either Xcel Energy or United Power. For example, if you charge your vehicle off-peak hours, your battery size is a 24-kilowatt-hour, and your electricity cost is $0.07 per kWh, then the cost to charge your EV at home would be $1.68 per session (assuming the battery is fully depleted/0% battery life).

13. Where can I charge my EV when traveling?: There is an extensive electric vehicle charging station network throughout Colorado that is growing by the day. Finding public charging stations is easy and can be found on Google Maps, PlugShare, ChargeHub, and many other resources. Public chargers are not like gas stations - they can be found everywhere from public parks, grocery stores, hardware store or pharmacies, public parking garages, shopping centers, and outside parking lots, or even curbside like at 625 Pierce Street.

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Emerald Ash Borer

Show All Answers

1. What is EAB and what does it do?: Emerald Ash Borer - EAB - is a highly destructive, non-native insect that infests and kills all North American true ash species (Fraxinus spp.) including green, white, black and blue ash, and their cultivars (including autumn purple ash, a popular white ash varietal in Colorado). The larval stage of EAB feeds under the bark of trees, cutting off the flow of water and nutrients. Infested trees gradually die over a period of approximately two to four years.

2. Why should I care about EAB?

This invasive insect has cost municipalities, property owners, nursery operators and forest products industries billions of dollars, and it is responsible for the death of millions of ash trees in at least 25 states and Canada.

An estimated 15% or more of Colorado’s urban and community trees are ash, and many of these trees are located on private property. Ash trees comprise an estimated 15% of the Town of Erie's urban forest, or 11,000 ash trees. Many of these ash trees are quite large and provide significant eco-benefits to the community. EAB infestation is almost always fatal to infested ash trees, unless chemically treated, and infested trees will be dead within approximately four years. EAB is the most destructive forest pest in recorded history.

Once an ash tree is infected, it can become extremely fragile and the likelihood of large branches, or the whole tree, falling onto people or property rises exponentially. Treatment of ash trees or removal of trees is recommended.

3. What does EAB look like?

Insent next to a coin

EAB adults are dark metallic green in color, with a coppery red or purple abdomen under the wings. The insect is approximately 1/2-inch long and 1/8-inch wide. Adults may be present from late May to September, but are most commonly active and visible in June and July, when they feed on ash leaves and lay eggs on the bark of ash trees

EAB larvae are creamy white in color and are found in the cambium layer under the bark. S-shaped galleries (tunnels) can be located if the bark is removed or when the barks splits as the tree dies Larvae can only be located using destructive branch peeling techniques.

Note that other metallic-green beetles and larval insect stages can be confused with EAB. Talk to a professional forester, arborist, or other tree care professional if unsure about the presence of EAB in an ash tree.

4. How does EAB spread?: EAB is a strong flier, but adults typically fly less than ½-mile from their emergence tree. Most long-distance movement of EAB has been directly traced to human movement of ash firewood or ash nursery stock. Movement of other untreated ash wood, wood chips greater than one inch, and ash products (green lumber, pallets, etc.) also present a risk.

5. What is being done in Colorado to mitigate the effects of EAB?

The inter-agency Colorado Emerald Ash Borer Response Team, comprised of nine agencies/organizations*, is working with partner organizations and communities to help manage the spread and impacts of EAB. Starting in 2013, the EAB Response Team and partners worked to complete an initial survey to determine the extent of spread of EAB in Colorado, and the team continues working with local governments to determine and map the extent of infestation.

The team hosts EAB identification workshops targeting green industry professionals and volunteers and leads EAB education and outreach efforts to inform the media and public. Also, in the fall of 2014, the team released stingless, parasitic wasps that target and kill EAB in Boulder to help control the borer’s spread.

Additional EAB resources and information on how the State of Colorado is handling the disease is available from the Colorado State Forest Service.

6. What is being done in the Town of Erie to manage EAB?

The Town’s goal is to preserve the healthiest, largest, and most significant ash trees on Town maintained property. Mature ash trees provide the greatest economic, social, and ecological benefits.. The EAB management strategy for the Town of Erie will employ a proactive, integrated strategy that utilizes the following management tools:

Inventorying Public Trees
Selective Pesticide Treatment
Selective Ash Tree Removal
Ash Tree Replacement with Non-Ash Species
Communications and Public Awareness

EAB is presumed present in low or undetectable levels throughout Erie. We strongly encourage the public to act now, not to wait until ash trees are dying in their neighborhood. If you'd like to preserve your Ash tree, treat it this year! If you choose not to preserve your Ash tree, budget for removal in the next few years.

7. What does pesticide treatment for EAB entail?

The CSFS is currently recommending that property owners consider treatment of desirable ash trees if they are located within 5 miles of a confirmed EAB infestation. As of Fall 2021, this includes the entire Town of Erie. It is appropriate for Erie residents to begin EAB pesticide treatments of worthy ash trees in 2022.

The Town will not treat any trees located on private property or on Town-owned properties that are privately maintained, such as areas maintained via Home Owners Associations (HOA), Metro Districts, and the public right-of-way adjacent to private property.

There are numerous EAB pesticide options available. The most effective are trunk injected emamectine benzoate formulations and must be applied by qualified professionals. All EAB pesticide must be reapplied every 1-3 years based on manufacturers recommendations. Erie Forestry encourages residents to work with a licensed pesticide applicator when utilizing EAB pesticides. Only, licensed pesticide applicators shall apply pesticides to Town owned property. This includes privately maintained public street trees growing in the public right-of-way adjacent to private property.

8. How do I know if my ash tree is a candidate for treatment?

Residents should consider the following when determining if a particular ash tree is a good candidate for long term preservation utilizing pesticides:

Is the tree healthy?
- Systemic EAB pesticides depend on a healthy vascular system to ensure effective distribution though out the tree’s canopy. Large dead branches, trunk wounds, and sucker growth are all signs of an unhealthy vascular system. Work with a local arborist to determine if your ash tree is healthy enough for pesticide treatment.
Is the tree growing in a good location?
- Ash trees can live for over 100 years and grow to a height of 60 feet or more. Ash trees also have large crown spreads and have potential to grow as wide as they grow tall. As such, it is important to consider if an individual ash tree has room to grow to maturity. Ash in tight spaces may not be ideal candidates for long term preservation. Proximity to powerlines, sidewalks, fences, buildings and other infrastructure should be considered.
Does the tree add significant energy savings to a particular property?
- Trees provide many eco-benefits to our community. Deciduous trees growing on the south and east sides of buildings can greatly reduce energy consumption by providing shade during summer months. These same trees lose their leaves in the winter, allowing the sun to warm buildings and further reduce energy consumption.
Is removal of the tree cost prohibitive?
- Large ash trees can be extremely expensive to remove safely. Some property managers may choose to utilize pesticides to preserve ash trees to avoid the prohibitive cost of removal. Contact a local arborist do determine the potential cost of ash tree removal.
Does the tree have significant sentimental or historical value?
- Healthy, historically significant ash trees should be considered for preservation. Likewise, many trees are planted as memorials or to honor a special life event. Residents may choose to preserve trees with high sentimental value.

9. How do I know if my ash tree should be removed?

Untreated ash trees will become infested and killed by Emerald Ash Borer. Trees killed by EAB become brittle very quickly and present safety hazards. Dead and dying trees of any species should be removed as soon as possible. Dead trees, especially ash, present a higher risk to the tree removal crew and are usually more expensive to remove than living trees. Residents are encouraged to contact a local licensed arborist to determine the cost of removing a privately maintained tree.

Please be aware: Dead private trees that threaten public safety will receive enforcement action through the Town of Erie’s municipal code. Right – of – way trees are the responsibility of the adjacent property owner.

10. How do I know if I have an ash tree on my property?

Ash tree identification images

More information about identifying ash trees can be found here. Site includes information regarding a FREE app developed by CSFS to assist the public with identifying ash trees.

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Emergency Alerts

Show All Answers

1. How do I register to receive emergency alert notifications on my cell phone?: View Emergency Alert Opt In information and follow the instructions. Three systems from three counties in Erie allows all Erie residents and businesses to be notified of an emergency situation in a variety of ways, including on their cell phones, home and work phones, text messaging and email.

2. What is the best way to be notified of severe weather?: Those who want to receive severe weather alerts as soon as they are issued by the National Weather Service should consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Alert Radio. (NOAA stands for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.) NOAA Weather Alert radios are available at many Front Range pharmacies and grocery stores. The radios may be programmed to narrow weather alerts for the Erie area by entering in the S.A.M.E. codes for Boulder and Weld counties.

3. How do I know if I'm registered?: Verify by visiting www.BOCOAlert.org to review the addresses and contact information for receiving alerts.

4. When will Emergency Alerts be used?: The system will be used to notify residents about imminent threats to health and safety such as the need to evacuate or take other appropriate actions in the emergency events (flash flood, fire, police activity).

5. Should I wait for an emergency notification before I evacuate or shelter?: If you are aware of a situation occurring in your area, do not wait for a call if you do not feel safe. Take action as you see fit depending on the emergency. The action messages will be worded as an advisory, warning, or order.

6. What if my phone number or email address change?

If your cell phone, work phone or email or physical address changes, you are responsible for going to the website and updating the information.

We do receive landline information on a quarterly basis from the cell phone providers, but it’s always a good idea to verify that your preferred landline is in the system.

In addition, Resident Connection is a database of publicly sourced information that aggregates residential and business phone numbers that can be utilized to send out emergency alerts to impacted areas. The phone numbers in this database will automatically receive text messages and voice alerts when an emergency alert is sent, however, Resident Connection is not a substitute for opting into messages at www.BOCOAlert.org .

7. Will my contact information be shared with others?: No. The information that you provide will be used for emergency purposes only. It will not be given to any other vendor or organization or used for any other purpose.

8. If a notification is sent out, is it guaranteed I will receive it if I register: When an emergency alert is activated, the system will make several attempts to reach the registered numbers. Landline and cell phones may be inundated with calls and the provider may not be able to deliver the message. We do not assume legal responsibility for technical difficulties that may result in notification failures. Once an alert leaves the Boulder County system it is the cell phone carriers that decide if the information is sent.

9. Are there other ways to be notified?

It's always important to have multiple ways of receiving a warning. Also tune in to:

Social Media (trusted sources): Twitter, Ring, Nextdoor, Facebook, Instagram
TV
Family
Landline phone
NOAA Weather Radio
Outdoor Warning Sirens

10. Who do I contact if I'm having difficulties with the opt in?

Please use ErieSubmit app or call the Contact Us hotline at 303-926-2701 to report an issue or get help with registering for Emergency Alerts.

If you need assistance logging in to your Everbridge account, or have specific questions, please email AlertHelp@BoulderCounty.org.

11. What number will the alerts come from?

Emergency alerts will come from the phone number 303-441-1400 or the email 911Alert@bouldercounty.org

We recommend you program these into your contacts on your cell phones. We also suggest you name it something like 'Erie Emergency'.
Adding the number as a contact will also help avoid call blocking.
Consider also modifying a unique text or ring tone.

*Remember - the non-emergency phone number to reach the Erie Police is 303-441-4444. Please consider saving this as a contact, as 'Police - non emergency'.

12. Who in my household should opt in?: It is recommended that each person who owns a cell phone should create a separate opt-in account with the system.

Example: a mother, father, brother, sister, grandma would be 5 opt-in accounts for one residence.

13. What about landlines?

The Emergency Alerts through Boulder County are powered by Everbridge. Everbridge receives data on a quarterly basis from Lumen and Xfinity/Comcast VOIP lines.

If you have a landline, you will be automatically in the system, but it's always a good idea to verify and customize your preferences. By creating a profile, you can add up to 5 addresses, cell phones, emails, and even a fax number!

14. What about VOIPs?: There are a few key differences between landline and VoIP phone systems. The most obvious difference is that VoIP uses the internet to make calls, while landlines use copper wires. This means that VoIP calls can be made anywhere there’s an internet connection, while landline calls are restricted to certain geographical areas.

It's best to create an opt-in profile and include all manners of preferred communications, be it land lines, cell phones, emails and even a fax number!

15. Are Emergency Alerts translated?

The ReachWell translation app is now available to download and receive emergency alerts in over 100 languages/dialects. Alerts are automatically sent to the app, where users can access the content in their preferred language. Alerts are received by opting into a unique ReachWell group and do not require sharing your location. This application will deliver every notification sent from the Boulder County Communications, Boulder Police and Fire Communications, and Longmont Emergency Communications.

Google Translate is available on all www.BoulderOEM.com web pages. Click on the drop-down menu, “Select Language” in upper right-hand corner of website to select your preferred language.

All Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) messages will be translated for community members and visitors that set their mobile device preferred language to Spanish.

16. Can I view all Emergency Alerts that have been sent?: Emergency alert messages and an interactive map are now automatically posted to the www.BOCOAlert.org website, anytime an emergency alert is sent in Boulder County using the Everbridge software. Each alert will contain a web address to access more information about the specific alert. The entire content of the alert is posted, so people who only received a 90-character message can view the complete content. The alerts and map capture the moment in time when it was sent and do not update as the status changes. As additional alerts are sent, they are posted in chronological order.

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Fireworks Show

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1. What time will the fireworks show start and how long will it last?: Fireworks will start at approximately 9:30 p.m., and will last approximately 15 minutes.

2. Why the 3rd of July instead of the 4th of July?: The Town of Erie began celebrating Independence Day on July 3 more than 20 years ago. The festivities have varied, and changed over time. From parades to concerts, speeches, and baseball games to pie eating and pageants. But one thing will never change; a celebration among friends under an illuminated sky.

3. Will there be any additional activities on site for July 3rd?: This is a fireworks show only with select vendors throughout the site. However, patrons are encouraged to bring their own activities, such as lawn chairs or games, to enjoy while they wait for fireworks to begin. In addition, we recommend that visitors check out local businesses throughout the holiday.

4. Will there be music?: Music will be played throughout the event. The fireworks display will be choreographed to coincide with highs and lows in the music and the overall tenor of the song, greatly increasing the enjoyment of those in attendance.

5. Will there be any food or vending options available?

Food vendors will be provided in the south parking lot located just east of the skate park beginning at 6 p.m. Do your part to help make this a low to no waste event! Waste stations will be placed around the park with options for landfill, recycling, and compost. Avoid bringing single use plastics into the event by bringing your own reusable water bottle.

Food Vendors:

Coming soon!

6. What type of fireworks are used for the show? Do the pyrotechnics make a similar 'boom' sound?: We use close proximity fireworks for this show, which are specifically designed to be launched at a lower altitude. This makes them safe and ideal for use in crowded areas, where traditional fireworks may not be practical or permitted. These fireworks are known for their bright colors, vivid displays, and ability to be synchronized to music. They create a range of visual effects, including glitter, strobes, and crackles, and are designed to produce a similar ‘boom’ sound to traditional fireworks shows. We take safety very seriously and work closely with our licensed pyrotechnicians to ensure that the fireworks display is conducted safely.

7. How close can we sit to the show?: There will be a 100' perimeter set around the Erie Community Center for the fallout zone. Our pyrotechnics team indicated that Civic Green and Mitchell Field will be the best viewing locations for the show.

8. Are there any alternate viewing locations?: We encourage patrons in proximity to the Erie Community Center to view from their homes or neighborhood parks.

9. Will there be on-site parking?: Parking will open at 6 p.m. with access to the Erie Community Center main lot and will be on a first come, first serve basis. Additional parking available at Boulder Community Health (101 Erie Pkwy). No parking on Erie Parkway, or E County Line Road. Coal Creek Center, located on the southeast corner of Erie Parkway and County Line Rd, is privately owned and therefore public parking is not available. We strongly encourage alternate modes of transportation to the show, as parking is very limited. View our trail and alternative parking access map for nearby parking locations.

10. Will handicap parking be available?: ADA accessible parking will be located at the north end of the Erie Community Center parking lot along with permanent ADA parking spaces. Signage and parking services will direct patrons upon arrival.

11. Is this a bike-friendly event?: Yes. Permanent bike racks are located around the Erie Community Center and Erie Community Park. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own locks, as the Town of Erie is not responsible for lost or stolen property.

12. Restrooms Provided?: Restrooms will be available at Erie Community Park at Garfield Shelter, the Post Shelter, and the concession stand. Additional port-a-potties and hand washing stations will be located in a central location near the handicap parking area.

13. Will any amenities be open during the time of the event?

Tennis courts will be closed and locked at 1 p.m. for remainder of the afternoon/evening. Skate park will be closed at dusk, and no lights will be programmed for the evening.

The Erie Community Center will operate with amended hours on Monday, July 3 and remain open from 6 a.m.-1 p.m. The Center will remain closed on Tuesday, July 4 and open with regular hours at 5 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5.

14. Zero Waste Event?

Yes, the Town of Erie is working towards reducing the amount of waste that ends up in the landfill at all of our events, including July 3rd. This takes an all hands on deck approach! When attending events in Erie, be a zero waste champion in three easy steps:

Pack out what you bring in. Don’t forget your reusable water bottle!
Think before you toss. Events will have 3 bins for your waste. Check signage attached to the bin to ensure you are disposing of your trash in the right bin.
Reduce contamination. Tell your family, friends and neighbors about this effort and share zero waste knowledge across the Town.

15. What is prohibited?: Personal fireworks Tailgating, RV's/campers, glass bottles, drones, personal grills, drugs, alcohol, and firearms are prohibited.

16. Can we bring our own alcohol?: No.

17. Are shade tents/shade structures allowed?: Yes, tents and/or shade structures are allowed the event. However, for safety reasons, they must be properly weighted and secured using sandbags or tent weights (no stakes allowed). We also ask that all structures be set up in a manner that does not intrude on the fireworks viewing experience for other event participants. Please be mindful of your neighbors and ensure that your tent or structure does not block anyone’s view of the show.

18. Are dogs allowed?: Pets must be on leash at all times. For your pet’s comfort, it is recommended to leave them at home during the fireworks display.

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Front Range Landfill

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1. When is the Front Range Landfill expected to be filled?

The Front Range Landfill is responsible for properly closing and maintaining the completed landfill. It is expected to operate through 2051. Once the landfill is closed, it will be capped with several feet of soil. Vegetation will be planted to stabilize the soil and provide an aesthetically pleasing landscape.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

2. When is waste collected and covered?

Waste is collected Monday through Saturday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Covering occurs between 8-10 p.m.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

3. What is being done to minimize views of the Front Range Landfill?

The landfill is actively working to bring the south end up to grade. Operations will then move to the northern portion which will be out of view from Vista Ridge. The south end is expected have the final grades completed and temporary seeding finished within 9 months (as of April 2019). The seeding will depend on weather. This will not be “final closure” of that area, that will happen at a future date.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

4. Is the waste visible?

Waste is covered nightly with either six inches of dirt or an alternate daily cover which is approved per the Engineering Development and Operation Plan (EDOP). The alternate daily cover is a bentonite clay spray that is applied daily in the evenings. Weekly an additional six inches of soil is added. This cover creates a fire break and is an odor suppressant. When applied the cover takes the shape of the compacted refuse.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

5. Why fill the southern portion now?

The strategy for ultimately reducing the view of the landfill involves firstly focusing efforts on bringing the southern portion to full capacity. Working primarily on this southern portion will allow for quicker remediation with top soil and vegetation. Next, waste collection will then be centralized in the north portion, out of view from the currently affected southern neighborhoods.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

6. Why so much traffic recently?

Trucks have been travelling up the perimeter road for quite some time, actually with the same frequency. However, since the operations are now quite visible to the south than in prior months it may appear to be out of the ordinary. As the southern part of the landfill is being filled to the permitted height the slopes at the exterior must also increase to follow the approved engineering design. This establishes required surface water controls.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

7. Where is the most active area within the landfill (as of April 2019)?

The complete footprint of the landfill is based on an engineering design with the goal of accepting waste. Accepting waste includes horizontal and vertical scooping of waste. The area on top of the south portion of landfill is currently where waste is being actively placed. Within 6-9 months the southern portion will be filled to the permitted height and grades. Operations will then work back to the north, and west, and finally east. The goal is to keep the active area farthest from the neighbors to the south. The result will be a more aesthetically pleasing view that is covered and vegetated.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

8. When is the landfill expected to be filled?

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

9. How many landfills are there in Erie?

There are two operating landfills and one closed landfill in Erie.

landfills map

Front Range Landfill, is located southeast of Weld County Roads 5 and 6. The entrance to this landfill is from CR 5, south of CR 6.

The Denver Regional Landfill is located southwest of CR 5 and CR 6 and is accessed off CR 6.

The Denver Regional Landfill North, is located northwest of CR 5 and CR 6, and is closed.

10. Who owns and operates the landfills in Erie?

Waste Connections Inc. owns and operates the Front Range Landfill and the Denver Regional Landfill.

The property on which Denver Regional Landfill North, which is closed, was is owned by Denver Regional Landfill North, Incorporated.

11. When and how was the Frond Range landfill approved in Erie?

The certificate of designation was issued by Weld County on July 22, 1991. The property was owned by Sanifill of Colorado, Inc. and was annexed in May of 1996 into the Town of Erie.

Randy Tourville
District Manager
Front Range Landfill
RandyTo@wasteconnections.com
405-694-9727

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General Election FAQs

Show All Answers

1. What is the purpose of a Primary Election and a General Election?

The State of Colorado holds regularly scheduled state general elections every two years. During a typical election year, a Primary election is held in June, followed by the General election in November. During a Presidential Election year, a presidential primary is also held in March.

The purpose of the Primary election is to nominate candidates from each party's primary ballot for the November General Election. The candidates who are successful in the primary election are placed on the General Election ballot.

2. What is a Coordinated Election?

A coordinated election is one that the county clerk and recorder conducts on behalf of two or more political subdivisions that are hosting an election on the same day in November. Specifically, for a coordinated election to take place, the election must:

Have more than one political subdivision holding an election (state, county, municipality, school district, or special district);
Take place on the same day in November; and
The eligible voters either are the same for each election or live in overlapping political subdivision boundaries.

3. What is a Municipal Election?: A municipal election is one that is run by a municipality and may or may not be coordinated. The Town of Erie will be conducting a municipal election via mail ballot on April 5, 2022 to elect a Mayor and 3 Trustees, and this election will not be coordinated.

4. How do I get my ballot?

In a mail ballot election, every voter receives a mail ballot. Your mail ballot will be sent to the mailing address you provided when you registered to vote. To check what address you provided when registering to vote, please visit www.govotecolorado.gov. If you wish to vote in person, you may do so at a voter service and polling center. To find your local polling locations, please visit www.govotecolorado.gov.

5. If I choose not to vote on a candidate or question, will my other votes still be counted?: Yes. If you choose not to vote for a candidate or a ballot question, and your ballot is otherwise valid, the rest of the votes on your ballot will be counted.

6. Where do I vote?

In a mail ballot election, there are 3 ways you can vote:

Mail your ballot: Follow the instructions that come with your mail ballot and put your ballot in the U.S. Mail, with proper postage affixed.
Drop your ballot at a secure location: Voters who would rather not use the mail may drop their ballot at a secure ballot drop off location. Please see ballot drop off locations below for Boulder and Weld County:

Boulder County Clerk & Recorder Elections

Ballot Drop-Off and Voting Locations
Track your Ballot
Register to Vote in Boulder County

Weld County Clerk & Recorder Elections
Ballot Drop-Off and Voting Locations
Track your Ballot
Register to Vote in Weld County

3. Polling place: If you wish to vote in-person, you may do so at a voter service and polling center. To find your local polling locations, please visit www.govotecolorado.gov.

7. How do I make sure my mail ballot will be counted?

Every valid mail ballot is counted. To be sure your ballot is valid, follow the instructions on the mail ballot envelope. This includes making sure your ballot is signed when it is returned.

For your ballot to count, you must return your ballot no later than 7:00 p.m. on Election Day (or later, if you are a military or overseas voter). If you are unsure whether your ballot will arrive through the mail on time, drop it off in person at either a drop-box or a designated drop-off location. There are drop-box and drop-off sites located throughout your county. Dropbox locations are open 24 hours per day. If you have trouble finding a drop-box or drop-off location, contact your county clerk and recorder. Instructions will be provided by your county clerk with your mail ballot.

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Home Rule

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1. What is Home Rule?: What is Home Rule?
“In Colorado, municipal “home rule” is a form of government under the control of local citizens rather than state government, with powers and authority derived from the municipality’s locally enacted charter and ordinances, rather than state statutes. It affords citizens of cities and towns who adopt a local charter freedom from the need for state enabling legislation and protection from state interference in “local and municipal matters”.
- Colorado Municipal League, Home Rule Handbook for Colorado’s Cities & Towns (January 2017)
In laymen’s terms – “home rule” is a form of government based on a charter written by residents rather than following state statute. It is based upon the theory that the residents in the community know best how to solve local issues. Home Rule is all about YOU! If the community votes to “go Home Rule”, the Charter the Town uses to govern the community will be created by residents for residents.

2. What types of local matters might Home Rule impact?

What types of local matters might Home Rule impact?

Finance and Taxation

1. Broader and more flexible taxing powers, including:

The ability to collect, administer, and enforce sales and use taxes.*
The ability to determine what transactions are subject to or exempt from sales and use taxes.
The ability to establish procedures for the adoption, amendment, increase, or decrease of taxes.
Authority to levy taxes not available to statutory municipalities, such as lodging taxes, admissions taxes, and other excise taxes.
The ability to provide property tax increase limits different from those provided for in the statutes.

*If the Town expands sales and use tax bases, then we would potentially have to self-collect. The State does not collect use tax, so if voters approved a use tax, the Town would need to self-collect.. Self-collecting taxes could require expanding the Town’s Finance Department.

2. Within limits, establish a tax base that is not uniform with the State of Colorado tax base (numerous home rule municipalities have a broader tax base, with fewer tax exemptions).

Examples include:

Business/consumer use tax (owed on the business purchase of assets, equipment and supplies where sales taxes have not been paid)
Pollution tax
Tax on manufacturers equipment
Computer software
Interstate telecommunications
Taxes due on the tangible personal property included in the purchase of an existing business within Erie
Occupational privilege tax (employment head tax)
Maintenance services (copier or medical equipment maintenance service agreement where parts/equipment replacement could be taxed)

3. Simplify or otherwise revise procedures for budget and appropriation adoption, amendment, and transfer of funds.

4. Establish maximum debt limitations.

5. Establish limitations for the repayment of municipal bonds.

Land Use

1. Have greater control over zoning issues.

Including restriction or elimination of nonconforming uses, permitting, sign codes, and basic zone district regulations. (Note: These would still be subject to constitutional limits.)

2. Modify the composition and powers of the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment.

Elections

1. Establish procedures and dates for municipal elections differing from those established by State statute, including such matters as regular and special election dates and the dates when elected officials will take office.

2. Modify local procedures for initiative, referendum, and recall.

3. Modify procedures for filling vacancies in elected offices.

4. Specify a minimum age for elected officials or other requirements.

Administration/Governance

1. Determine the form of government and administrative structure, including:

The size of the governing body.
The powers of elected and appointed officials.
The terms of office of elected officials and whether they are elected from districts or at-large.
Set term limits for elected and appointed officials.
Establish ethics, gift, and conflict-of-interest requirements for elected and appointed officials.
Set local campaign spending and disclosure requirements.
Determine quorum and voting requirements.
The manner of filling vacancies.
The respective powers of elected and appointed officials, boards and commissions, and staff.

2. Establish procedures for the adoption of ordinances and resolutions; determining:

Whether actions need be taken by ordinance, resolution, or motion.
Procedures for notice, hearing, publication, or posting of ordinances.
Publishing ordinances by title only.
Determination of the effective date of ordinances.

3. Modify procedures pertaining to regular and special meetings and executive sessions.

4. Expand the jurisdiction of municipal courts (e.g. increased nuisance abatement authority).

5. Establish procedures for the sale or disposal of public property and the awarding of contracts.

6. Determine the qualifications of municipal officers and employees.

7. Establish maximum terms for public utility franchises.

3. What are the potential disadvantages of Home Rule?

What are the potential disadvantages of Home Rule?

The possibility of a restrictive Charter that could make completing Town business more difficult.
The drafting and adoption of a Home Rule Charter will require Town funds to support the project.
Some residents may see the possibility of a Home Rule Charter to provide expanded municipal authority over certain matters as a disadvantage.

4. What are the procedures for adopting a Home Rule Charter?

What are the procedures for adopting a Home Rule Charter?

Adopting a Home Rule Charter involves three primary steps:

Adoption of an ordinance by the Board of Trustees, or by submitting a petition to the Board of Trustees signed by not less than 5% of the registered voters in the Town of Erie.
Conducting an election to adopt or disapprove the proposed Home Rule Charter.
Conducting an election to elect the Charter Commission members who will prepare a draft Charter.

5. How do I get involved?

How do I get involved?

Visit: Visit the EngageErie project page for Home Rule for all the latest ways to ask questions, complete polls/surveys, join Community Conversations, and more.

Watch: The Board of Trustees reviewed a public engagement plan on March 16, 2021. Watch the discussion in full.

Watch: The Town of Erie Board of Trustees had a Home Rule representative give a detailed home rule presentation at their Sept. 17, 2019 meeting.

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Human Resources

Show All Answers

1. Where are jobs for the Town posted?: A listing of the current job openings is posted on the town's website, Channel 8 and may be advertised in local newspapers.

2. Can I submit my application online?: Yes, simply follow the instructions on the town's website for submitting an online application.

3. How often does the Town hire police officers?: The Town of Erie Police Department does not have a recruitment schedule. If you are interested in becoming a police officer, please check back regularly.
Online Job Applications

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Licenses & Permits

Show All Answers

1. Do I need to apply for a business license?: All commercial or home occupation businesses located in or doing business within the town limits of Erie are required to apply for a Business / Home Occupation License. For more information, visit: https://www.erieco.gov/1444/Business-Licenses.

2. Does the Town of Erie require dogs to be licensed?

Dog licenses are a FREE ticket home, meaning that if your dog is licensed (as required for every dog over six months of age in Erie), animal control can find their contact information and help return the four-legged family member home safely.

For more, visit the webpage.

3. Do I need a permit for our Block Party?: Yes. You must complete an "Application for Block Parties/Street Closures" available through the Town Clerk's Office.

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Local Election FAQs

Show All Answers

1. When does the Town of Erie hold a local/municipal election?: The Town of Erie holds a Regular Municipal Mail Ballot Election the first Tuesday of April in even-numbered years to elect a Mayor and three Trustees. Trustees serve four-year staggered terms, the Mayor's term is two years and thus that position is on the ballot each Election. .

2. What is Signature Verification?: The purpose of the signature on the outside of the return envelope is to allow election officials to examine the return envelope and compare the information on the envelope to the voter registration records. This is to determine whether the ballot was submitted by an eligible elector who has not previously voted in the election.

3. Why didn't I get my ballot?

Ballots are mailed to all registered voters with an address within the Town of Erie. If you didn't get a ballot it could be because:

you moved and didn't change your address
you live outside the Town of Erie
you are not a registered voter

4. When will I receive my ballot?

Ballots will be mailed to voters beginning March 14, 2022. Please allow up to a full week for delivery. Please double check your address at www.GoVoteColorado.gov.

5. Where do I vote?

There are three ways you can vote:

Mail your ballot: Your ballot will be mailed to your home. You may indicate your vote on the ballot at home whenever it is most convenient for you. When you are finished, simply place your ballot in the return envelope, complete the information on the outside of the envelope (be sure to sign your name on the appropriate space!), add appropriate postage, and drop it in the mail. Just remember to mail it in time to reach the Town of Erie Clerk’s Office by 7 p.m. on Election Day.
Drop your ballot in a secure ballot box: Voters who would rather not use the mail may personally drop their ballot in the drop-off box located outside of Town Hall. This is the same location utility bill payments can be made - just inside the roundabout in front of 645 Holbrook Street.
Voter Service Center: If you wish to vote in person, you may do so by bringing your mail ballot to the voter service center (exact location to be determined for each Election).

6. Who is eligible to vote in the Town election?

Any resident of Erie who is at least 18 years of age by Election Day and who has lived in Colorado for at least 22 days preceding the election may vote in the Town election.

Residents can register with their COUNTY clerk or at www.govotecolorado.com. Same-day registration is also available at a Voter Service Center during the Center's open hours.

7. Can I use BallotTrack for local elections?

The Town of Erie does not use Ballot Track for local elections at this time, if you want to find out if your mailed or dropped-off ballot has been received by the Town Clerk - call 303-926-2733.

For Coordinated Elections (in November) Sign up for Ballot Track at either www.WeldVotes.com or www.BoulderCountyVotes.org. This allows you to track your mail ballot with the free service that will notify you when your ballot is printed, mailed, and received for processing.

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Mae J Oil & Gas Q&A - Feb. 11, 2021

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1. Can the COGCC comment on the permitting of this site?: There were many questions posed to the COGCC in particular during this Q&A session. The COGCC requests that interested residents view the responses given live in the meeting, live in the meeting.

2. Does the Town plan to have third-party auditors checking and reporting on these sites before, during, and after the operators are on site?: The Mae J site is not located within the Town limits so the Town’s regulations and requirement do not apply to sites outside of the Town. Operations at this site are subject to COGCC regulations and inspections and/or any regulations and inspections by Weld County.

3. Now that there are homes basically right next door and if the approval process has changed, why is this site not subject to re-evaluation?

Answer from Weld County:

The original permits were considered using the rules and regulations at the time - for both Weld County and the State - and the Operator was issued a valid permit for development. They are currently not subject to re-evaluation.

4. How can we be sure the sites are appropriately plugged to eliminate leaking methane?

Answer from Occidental:

Audio, visual, and olfactory (AVO) inspections are completed daily when an operator is on location. Potential leaks are reported to our emissions team to follow-up with an infrared (IR) camera. Weekly AVO inspections are completed by a member of our emissions team. Any detected leaks are recorded, repaired, and re-screened with an IR camera to verify repair. In addition, our Integrated Operations Center monitors the wells from Platteville and is staffed 24/7.

At the end of the well life cycle, we will retire the wells and reclaim the pad to match the existing landscape. This procedure is commonly referred to as plugging and abandonment and is regulated by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC).

5. What is the evacuation distance? How could this be safe?

Answer from Occidental:

Local emergency response agencies determine the evacuation distance required to protect the health, safety, welfare, environment, and wildlife resources.

6. Does your emergency plan include/account for funding and/or resources for our local firefighters and emergency services should a site accident occur?

Answer from Occidental:

In 2021 we paid approximately $169,000,000 to Weld County in Ad Valorem taxes for our 2020 operations; approximately $24,000,000 of which was designated for Fire Agencies. We are founding members and on the board of the Colorado Preparedness Response Network (CPRN). This is a non-profit, member-owned, oil and gas industry-driven initiative that promotes best management practices and shared resources, with an emphasis on responding to oil and gas emergencies. CPRN develops and fosters relationships between industry and public emergency response organizations to build preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation solutions.

7. How many wells are waiting on completions in the area? Yellowhammer/PapaJo are waiting and what other pads just east of Mae are on completions?

Answer from Occidental:

The Mae J, Papa Jo, and Yellowhammer wells are the last wells we have in the area that are drilled and awaiting the completions phase

8. Are all on-site workers background checked?

Answer from Occidental:

Background checks are conducted on all Occidental employees prior to employment. The completions contractors operating at this location are required to conduct background checks on their employees. This process is done in full compliance with the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act ("FCRA”) requirements.

9. Will the water be piped in or will the water be trucked in? Will wastewater be piped out or removed by trucks? What’s the estimate of number of trucks?

Answer from Occidental:

All water used for the completions locations near Erie will be piped in via our water-on-demand system eliminating an estimated 46,800 truck trips. Wastewater will be removed by truck. We estimate 167 truck trips per day during the completions process. The completions process at each location is expected to last 30 days

10. Are there any on-going tests that will be conducted to determine impacts to air and water quality, or ground stability, and will those results be made available to residents/public?

Answer from Occidental:

We have developed a rigorous process for analyzing and mitigating surface impacts at each of our locations. For the pads near Erie, this includes a quiet completions fleet, sound walls, our water-on-demand system, continuous air quality monitoring, and paved access roads.

Per COGCC rules, baseline water quality samples were collected from nearby water wells prior to drilling the wells. Subsequent water samples will be collected after the completions activity is complete to ensure water quality in the area has not been affected. All water well sample results are provided to the COGCC and can be accessed on the COGCC website.

11. What air monitoring techniques will be used to monitor the Mae J site and will the CAMML mobile monitoring system be set up?

Answer from Occidental:

We contract with a third-party environmental air quality expert to perform continuous air monitoring during the drilling and hydraulic fracturing phases. Please see our air monitoring plan for more details.

12. Do these well site permits have an expiration date?

Answer from Occidental:

Permits expire after three years. In this case, the Weld County WOGLA permit for the MAE J 14-8HZ pad was approved on June 6, 2019. The COGCC 2A was approved on Aug. 9, 2019. Development of the MAE J 14-8HZ pad has commenced and therefore the three-year operations were commenced prior to the expiration of either permit in compliance with local and state rules.

13. When fracking begins, what sort of truck load on the roads is expected?

Answer from Occidental:

We estimate 167 truck trips per day during the completions process. Truck routes include HWY 52, CR 3, CR 7, and CR 10. The travel distribution to the proposed location is expected to be approximately 50% from the north (HWY 52 to CR 3 or CR 7) and approximately 50% from the east (HWY 1-25 to CR 10).

14. What are the walls around the site made of and are they explosion proof?

Answer from Occidental:

The walls are designed for noise mitigation. The outer material that is used to reinforce the acoustic material is "emboss" and is fire resistant. The acoustic material is technically ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) or a mass loaded vinyl.

15. Will the tanks storing wastewater be covered?

Answer from Occidental:

During the hydraulic fracturing and flowback all produced water will be diverted to enclosed water tanks. After flowback, during the cleanout phase, the water and sand removed from the well is stored in open tanks. The cleanout process lasts approximately 8-10 days and is permitted under new COGCC rules which go into effect on May 1, 2021.

16. How many flowlines are underneath the Mae J pad?

Answer from Occidental:

There will be 12 flowlines on the MAE J 14-8HZ pad which will flow from the well heads to the production facility. All flowlines will be mapped in accordance with COGCC regulations.

17. Who is the hydraulic fracturing company and who is the wireline company?

Answer from Occidental:

Halliburton Oilfield Services and Cutters Wireline Service will be providing hydraulic fracturing and wireline services, respectively.

18. Where is the water being piped in from?

Answer from Occidental:

The industrial water pumped through our water-on-demand system will save an estimated 46,800 truck trips avoiding water transportation emissions and the resulting traffic, dust, road wear, and disturbance to stakeholders. The water used in our operations is sourced from multiple locations. As such, it would be inaccurate to identify an exact source(s) that will be used during our operations near Erie.

19. What is the schedule for major milestones?

Answer from Occidental:

Please refer to the Fact Sheet.

20. Will there be monitoring during the flowback period? How long will flow back occur?

Answer from Occidental:

We utilize an enclosed flowback method. All hydrocarbons and fluids from the well are diverted to enclosed production facilities. Continuous air monitoring will be conducted during the flowback process. Flowback operations are anticipated from March 18 to April 17 for Mae J, and April 12-28 for Papa Jo and Yellowhammer.

21. Is there a site map for where these locations are?

Answer from Occidental:

Please refer to the Fact Sheet.

22. What agency do we contact to investigate and resolve noise or environmental concerns?: You are encouraged to contact the Occidental Response Line at 1-866-248-9577 or email at ColoradoStakeholder@oxy.com.

23. Is there expected to be a physical vibration felt at homes near the site during hydraulic fracturing?

Answer from Occidental:

Other communities near our operations have reported that the completions phase is quieter than the drilling phase. Residents should not expect to hear or feel C-scale noise. Residents will not be able to feel the actual completion operations.

24. Will there be visible emissions during fracking? Emissions from trucking, crane, and/or pumps?

Answer from Occidental:

The completions engines are classified as tier four engines, which produce the least amount of emissions. We have contracted with an environmental air quality expert to conduct continuous air monitoring at these three locations during development.

During cold weather situations, water and steam evaporation might be seen from freshwater tanks, and exhaust might be seen from vehicles and engines.

25. Which way do the flow lines run? How deep are the flow lines buried?

Answer from Occidental:

Twelve flow lines will flow from the well head to the production facility location. The size of flow lines is typically two inches in diameter. Flow lines will be constructed from steel pipe, are typically buried 3-7’ deep, and will equal the distance between the well heads and the production facility. All flowlines will be mapped in accordance with COGCC regulations.

26. Is there any security measure in place to protect the wells from extremists attacks?

Answer from Occidental:

Our security team is actively involved with the Northern Colorado and Denver Metro Joint Terrorism Task Force that are staffed by local law enforcement as well as the FBI and Homeland Security.

The locations and monitoring equipment are equipped with cameras and operational alarms.

Our Integrated Operations Center (IOC) is staffed 24 hours per day, seven days per week, 365 days per year. It enables real-time monitoring of the majority of our wells, water tanks, and pipeline system pressures. The IOC enables employees to shut-in many of the wells remotely, and enhances collaboration with local emergency response agencies.

27. Will Occidental use the electric fracturing fleet since this site is so close to homes?

Answer from Occidental:

The completions engines are classified as tier four engines, which produce the least amount of emissions. We have contracted with a third-party environmental air quality expert to conduct continuous air monitoring at these three locations during development.

28. Because the Mae J site is within 1,000ft of an occupied structure, what additional monitoring, repair, notification, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements will you be following?

Answer from Occidental:

More frequent proximity inspections will be performed according to Table 3 Section II.E.4.e. All leaks will be repaired within five days or equipment will be shut in to repair the leaks where possible. We have an internal emissions team that performs all inspections and completes most of the repairs, so repairs and rescreens are typically complete very quickly. For leaks that cannot be repaired within 5 days and are not eliminated by shutting in equipment, notification will be provided to the CDPHE and local government within seven days of the leak detection.

The facility will not have any natural gas actuated pneumatic controllers, no oil storage tanks, no vapor recovery units or other compressors (other than an electric air compressor for instrument air pneumatics). In addition, there is automation at the facility that allows remote and/or automatic shut ins at facilities when there are instances of high or low pressures or temperatures, when pilots are not lit and when tank pressures are approaching relief points. We have an integrated operations center that is staffed 24/7 to view and respond to automated data.

29. Does Erie have future plans to compel other jurisdictions to justify their land use decisions?: Communities do not have the legal ability to require another jurisdiction to justify a particular land-use decision made within that other jurisdiction.

30. How long are drilling permits valid?

Answer from Weld County:

Weld County permits are valid for three (3) years, but only expire after that period if construction has not started. Once construction begins, it is then treated as an "active" site. Active sites are then held to conditions and development standards for the life of the Location. Active Locations and their permits do not expire, until the Operator chooses to plug and abandon the location, which can be and usually is multiple years after production begins.

31. What is Erie's role in residential development permits as they relate to well sites?: For the Mae J site, the Town could only require the land developer of the Colliers Hill development to comply with the setback requirements from various oil and gas facilities that were in development at the time of the initial land plot within the Colliers development area. Those setback requirements have been met.

32. Who at the Town level is the contact for reporting health impacts, noise, odor, and nuisance?

We do not have a Town contact for these types of concerns. We would encourage residents to send complaints to the developer of any given well site and to CDPHE if the concerns are health-related.

CDPHE Resources:

- Oil and Gas Health Information and Response Program (residents can report health concerns to this program and find information about the community investigations the program has conducted so far, the health risk assessment one resident referenced tonight as well as a glossary of common oil and gas terms): www.colorado.gov/oghealth (direct link to memo about Health Guideline Values available here)

- Air quality monitoring 101 and continuous monitoring 101: https://cdphe.stg.colorado.gov/oil-and-gas-methane-other-hydrocarbons-monitoring-forum

- Sign up for APCD Updates (including oil and gas): https://cdphe.stg.colorado.gov/air-pollution-contacts

- Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) Regulations: https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/aqcc-statutes-and-regulations

- AQCC Website (with rulemaking calendar)- https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/aqcc

- Getting Involved in the Rulemaking Process: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ajTTHzQuJC1obnYmk35x7LV1_3Xe3LqW/view

- Oil and Gas Compliance and Recordkeeping: https://cdphe.stg.colorado.gov/apens-and-air-permits

- Air quality monitoring, modelling, and data (including forecasts and advisories): https://www.colorado.gov/airquality /

33. Once these wells are completed, will this parcel be annexed into Erie?: The Town cannot require this area to be annexed into the Town. If this area were to be annexed into the Town of Erie in the future, by the request of the land owner, any new development of the land would need to comply with the applicable regulations in effect at that time.

34. Are the Town's employee's background checked?: Town of Erie employees do submit to a standard background check when hired. There are also more stringent background check requirements for employees at the Police Department and for those in roles working with youth. Please contact HR for more specific details about background check requirements per each job classification.

35. Can the Town pass a resolution to require operators to only employ those with clean background checks?: There may be ways to require this during the permitting process if a well site were proposed within the Town’s jurisdiction. We would need to consult with our Town Attorney.

36. Does the responsibility of air monitoring fall solely on voluntary efforts made by the drilling company?

Answer from Weld County:

At the time of this specific permit being submitted to and considered by Weld County, there were no air monitoring rules or requirements in County Code. The Operator has voluntarily committed to air monitoring at this Location. Even in our updated County Code, air monitoring is not a requirement at all Locations, and the Code specifically mentions that Operators must follow State and Federal rules. Many Operators are voluntarily agreeing to air monitoring to have evidence of compliance with all State and Federal rules. Current County Code addresses Air Permits in Sec. 21-5-480.

37. Is the Town requiring Occidental to adhere to Article 12 regulations?: Any Air Quality Monitoring required under Article 12 of the Town’s oil and gas regulations would only apply to operations within the Town limits.

38. Why does the town approve oil and gas development?: The Town of Erie - like all municipalities and local governments in Colorado - are not legally able to ban oil and gas development. There are increased opportunities for local control and regulations under SB-19-181 that was passed through the State legislature in 2019, but that does not allow any local government to add a blanket ban on this type of development.

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Main Town FAQs

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1. How can I receive notices about oil & gas operations within Erie?

The Town of Erie sends Oil & Gas Operations email and text alerts to subscribers. Subscribe with the Notify Me menu or view the archive of all oil and gas notifications that have been sent to the Town of Erie Oil & Gas subscribers.

All oil and gas applications are reviewed at a Public Hearing by the Planning Commission and Board of Trustees during regularly scheduled meetings.

All Public Hearings are published for public notice. To receive meeting notifications that include a link to the meeting agenda, visit the Notify Me webpage. Once on the Notify Me site, choose “Town Event Calendar” and select to receive notices via email and/or text on your mobile device.

Oil and Gas Operations page

2. How do I contact the Mayor and Board of Trustees?

Board of Trustees.

3. What are my recycling options in Erie?: Trash and recycling haulers operating within the Town of Erie offer various levels of recycling services and options. Please contact your hauler directly for more information. Additionally, the Town of Erie Department of Public Works maintains the Recycling Center drop-off location.
Town of Erie Recycling Center

4. Where can I find economic development and demographic information about the Town of Erie?

Visit the Economic Development webpage to see more information about:

Demographics
Community Profile
Current Projects
Business Resource Guide
And more...

Economic Development page.

5. Does the Town have a Code Enforcement Officer?: Yes. The Erie Police Department has a dedicated Code Enforcement Officer. See more and find contact information on the Code Enforcement & Animal Control webpage.
Code Enforcement

6. Does the Town rent out facilities?: The Town of Erie Parks and Recreation Department accepts applications for facility rentals such as park shelters, meeting rooms, and athletic fields. View the Rentals webpage for more information.

7. Is my property at risk of flood or in the flood risk zone?

To assess if your property is located in or near an area that has a high flood risk or is near either a Federal Emergency Management Agency-regulated floodplain or a local regulatory floodplain:

Visit mhfd.org/floodmap
Enter your address
Higher flood risk areas are shaded blue

For floodplain questions and recent floodplain changes in your property, contact your local floodplain contact Wendi Palmer at wpalmer@erieco.gov or 303-926-2875.

For questions on preparing for an emergency, contact your office of emergency management or Chief Kim Stewart at kstewart@erieco.gov or 303-441-4444.

FloodPlain postcard_Page_1

FloodPlain postcard

8. Can I drive my golf cart on streets and trails in Erie?

Effective Oct. 1, 2010, licensed drivers 21 years of age or older may drive their golf carts on streets that have speed limits of 25 miles per hour or less. Golf carts are NOT permitted on Town of Erie trails. Further details are provided below.

According to Town Ordinance: "Golf Cars shall be restricted to operation on streets and roadways within the Town of Erie which have a speed limit of Twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph) or less, and to operation on Mountain View Boulevard; except that a Golf Car may be operated to directly cross a roadway that has a speed limit greater than Twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph) at an at-grade crossing to continue traveling along a roadway with a speed limit equal to or less than Twenty-five miles per hour (25 mph). If the owner of the Golf Car resides at a street address where operation of a Golf Car is not allowed due to this speed restriction, the owner shall be allowed to drive the shortest route to and from the owner’s residence to a street where the Golf Car is allowed to operate."

The ordinance does not allow one to drive on streets that are greater than 25 mph except:

If you live on one that would otherwise not allow you to leave your house (because the limit is greater than 25 mph), or
On Mountain View Boulevard BACKGROUND: During their August 24th meeting, the Board of Trustees approved an ordinance permitting the operation of Golf Cars on town streets modeled after a similar ordinance adopted by the Town of Bow Mar, Colorado.

The ordinance applies to either electrical or gas powered Golf Cars, but is restricted to Golf Cars as defined by the State. This ordinance is effective Oct. 1, 2010. “Golf Car”, as set forth in Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-1-102, means a self-propelled vehicle not designed primarily for operation on roadways and that has: at least three wheels in contact with the ground; an empty weight of not more than one thousand three hundred pounds; and a carrying capacity of not more than four persons. Every Golf Car shall be equipped, at a minimum, with the following equipment:

Front headlamps;
front and rear turn signal lamps;
rear tail lamps and stop lamps;
a rear view mirror or mirrors;
a parking brake;
a front windshield;
seat belts for each occupant;
two rear reflectors as either part of the tail lamps or separately; and,
a slow moving vehicle sign - as provided for by State law - shall be attached on the rear of the Golf Car.

The ordinance also includes but is not limited to the following:

Operators must be 21 years of age or older with valid driver’s license
Operators must have liability insurance
Access restricted to streets which have a speed of 25 mph or less
* * Exception: On streets where operation is not allowed due to this restriction, owners shall be allowed to drive the shortest route to and from owner’s residence to a street where the Golf Car is allowed.
Golf cars are allowed on Mountain View Boulevard
Prohibited use on Town paths or trails
Child restraints per State Statutes
A twenty-four month review of this ordinance
Everyone operating a golf car shall be subject to all traffic laws

Download a Golf Car flyer, courtesy of the Erie Police Department.

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Marshall Fire Recovery | Landfill Acceptance

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1. Did the Town approve a waiver for the Front Range Landfill to accept possible asbestos debris?

The Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) is the entity that can issue these sort of waivers. Typically, only landfills with specific operations intended for asbestos mitigation are certified to accept that type of material. For this specific case, CDPHE issued a temporary waiver to Front Range Landfill for 60 days to accept debris from the Marshall Fire. The Town was consulted by CDPHE and ultimately supported the decision.

To be clear, just because this waiver is in place, this does not guarantee that asbestos will indeed end up in the landfill. It is not clear how many, if any, of the homes that were damaged or destroyed in the Marshall Fire had any asbestos within them. This waiver allows for bringing this debris to the closest landfill, Erie, for expediting cleanup of the devastation, regardless of the presence of asbestos.

2. Who was it at the Town of Erie who was authorized to consent to the asbestos waiver?: As an operational matter, the decision to give consent for the CDPHE 60-day waiver was the responsibility of the Public Works Director. The Board of Trustees focuses on policymaking for the Town, and staff is responsible for operational issues. So in this case, the Board of Trustees did not need to vote or give consent for this decision.

3. Does the Town of Erie have any ability to review the terms of the waiver?

When originally approached by CDPHE to help with the recovery efforts, the Town reviewed the waiver thoroughly. Staff then asked that CDPHE limit the waiver to 60 days rather than the duration of the recovery event. While the recovery will take much longer, the Town wanted to have an opportunity early on to review how the debris disposal was going. This means that after 60 days, the Town can re-evaluate whether to continue accepting this debris.

The Town also asked that the waiver include specific terms by which the debris would be contained and covered as it is dropped at the landfill.

4. What if I still have more questions?

Please use the ErieSubmit service to submit more questions about this. At this time, please use the "Other" category topic.

To use ErieSubmit:

Please visit the webpage.
Choose a topic to submit your comment/question about.
Fill in the relevant information about your request.
Choose then choose the option for how you'd like to submit your comment/question:
- To submit without registering for the service, choose "Submit as a Guest" on the last submission screen. Note: if you submit without adding your contact information you will NOT received email updates about your comment/question. You will need to return to the webpage to check the status of your request on the map.

5. Why can't this debris go to another landfill?

The Town of Erie is not the only entity CDPHE contacts. They also requested that Foothills Landfill in Golden (which accepted similar waste during last summer's wildfires) accept this waste as well. At this time, it is unclear whether that consent has been given from the Foothills Landfill.

The next closest landfill would be Tower Road, near the Denver International Airport. The distance to travel between the affected homes and the landfill on Tower Road is more than double the distance to Erie. If the debris had to be trucked that distance, it would also have the consequence of drastically extending the length and cost of cleanup and recovery for our neighbors.

6. Am I at immediate risk from possible asbestos?

A small percentage of the waste collected at the burn site could contain asbestos. Due to the fact that this debris could contain asbestos, it has to be handled as if it does contain asbestos.

Significant precautions are in place to ensure any debris - including asbestos - is contained thoroughly as outlined in the temporary waiver.

7. What is asbestos?: According to the definition from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring minerals that are resistant to heat and corrosion. Asbestos has been used in products, such as insulation for pipes (steam lines for example), floor tiles, building materials, and in vehicle brakes and clutches. Asbestos includes the mineral fibers chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite, actinolite and any of these materials that have been chemically treated or altered. Heavy exposures tend to occur in the construction industry and in ship repair, particularly during the removal of asbestos materials due to renovation, repairs, or demolition. Workers are also likely to be exposed during the manufacture of asbestos products (such as textiles, friction products, insulation, and other building materials) and during automotive brake and clutch repair work.

8. Why would homes potentially have asbestos in them?

Building materials (siding, flooring, etc.) leading up to the 1970's included asbestos, partly due to its resistance to fire. As health issues related to asbestos became more known this practice of using asbestos in building materials was mostly halted in the 1980's.

Some homes built before the '80s have had asbestos mitigation measures taken, some have not. At this point, it is unknown how many (if any) of the homes in the Marshall Fire had asbestos in their building materials.

9. How will this debris be transported to the Front Range Landfill?: All debris from the Marshall Fire burn area will be bagged at the burn site. Then material is then placed in covered bins for transport by an approved list of haulers.

10. Does the Town have an air quality monitoring system in place to detect particulates in and around the landfill?: Yes, the Town of Erie has an existing air quality monitoring program throughout Town limits with monitoring sites at the northern and southern ends of the landfill. These monitoring stations are equipped with multiple particulate sensors and real-team notifications.

11. How do we know the Front Range Landfill will follow the requirements in the waiver?: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is the regulatory authority for the landfill permit. Additionally, CDPHE staff and Town staff can and will make site visits to inspect this debris as it is brought to the landfill site.

12. Can the Town require any additional measures from Front Range Landfill in handling this debris?

Front Range Landfill management has agreed to these additional measures:

The fire debris will be track at the scale house by tons, by customer, vehicle number, by date and time, all recorded in our computer tracking software.
The trucks will be directed to a separate dumping area away from all other customer and the daily waste dumping area.
The dumping area for fire debris will be located in a lower area in the central portion of the landfill away from any outside slopes or boundaries. It will be protected by two interior slopes, one to the west and one to the south. FRL will build an earthen berm to the north as well. Trucks will enter the area from the east.
The trucks will back into the area up to the southern or western slope to dump their loads.
FRL will have clean fill dirt and a 6000 gal water truck readily available to manage the dumping area and the fire debris material if needed. The fire debris will be covered with clean fill dirt daily.
FRL will have a safety control person directing and managing the operations daily who has the ability to shut down the entire operations for any safety concerns that might arise.
This area will be surveyed by GPS to have an onsite record of the area and the total debris that is dumped in that area.
FRL will send the Town a report of the weekly activities with photos and the guidelines below which were requested. This report will be sent on Monday mornings for the prior week and include:
1. General review of this specific activity;
2. Truck trips per day specific to this activity;
3. Estimated tons of deposited waste;
4. Other relevant observations or safety concerns.

13. Does the Town make a profit of taking these loads of debris?

The Town does not make profit as an entity.

The Town receives funding from a surcharge fee which is charged by the landfill. The fee is intended to offset impacts to Town roads from the large hauling trucks.

14. What fees are collected by the Front Range Landfill?: We have been informed by the Front Range Landfill that they are charging standard fees and intending to donate a portion of those fees to those impacted by the disaster.

15. How else can I help those affected by the Marshall Fire?

If you would like to donate fund to the families who have damaged or destroyed homes, please visit the Community Foundation.

At this time, physical donations of items are not able to be accommodated. You can list what items you have to donate on a donation form and if someone can use you item or service, you will be contacted.

You can sign up to volunteer for clean-up or restoration work. This sign-up will put you on a list to be contacted as soon as volunteer projects are started.

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Metro Districts

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1. What is a Metro District?: A Metro District (short for Metropolitan District) is a financing tool used by developers to fund new development and the necessary infrastructure to support that new development. In this system of financing, developers use bonds (an issuance of debt) to build new development and then impose a mill levy (property tax) on residents of the district to pay off those bonds. In this system of financing, only the residents of a Metro District pay an additional property tax for the development of the district, as opposed to all residents of the Town paying for new infrastructure.

2. What should I consider before buying a home in a Metro District?: Residents of a Metro District pay an additional property tax. For a newly constructed home, this tax activates two years after purchase. Before purchasing a home in a Metro District, buyers should review the impact of an additional property tax on their annual budget and factor that into the overall cost of the home.

3. How does a Metro District differ from an HOA?: A Homeowners’ Association (HOA) is not a type of Metro District or governmental entity and does not, therefore, have any taxing powers. An HOA is a private entity created to enforce restrictive covenants and/or maintenance of HOA-owned common areas. A neighborhood can have both an HOA and a Metro District. The Metro District, however, is responsible for the creation and maintenance of infrastructure specifically. Each neighborhood is different so residents should research who is responsible for maintenance of shared community spaces (such as parks) for their respective neighborhood.

4. How is a Metro District governed and can I be a part of governance in my Metro District?: A Metro District is governed by a Board of Directors, who are elected by the registered electors within the District. Eligible electors who reside within the District or who own taxable property within the District are eligible to serve on the Board of Directors and they become eligible to join as soon as they move into or purchase property within the District.

5. Who approves a Metro District?: The approval of a District Service Plan is at the sole discretion of the Town of Erie’s Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees may reject, approve, or conditionally approve Service Plans on a case-by-case basis. The Board of Trustees retains full authority regarding the approval, terms, conditions, and limitations of all Service Plans. To read more about what the Board of Trustees evaluates when reviewing a District Service Plan, read Town of Erie Metro District Review Policy.

6. Who ensures transparency of a Metro District after it’s formed?

Metro Districts follow the same “sunshine” laws as any other governmental entity in Colorado, as well as additional requirements in the Metro District statutes and in the Town of Erie’s Metro District Policy. Specifically, a Metro District must notice all meetings by posting the time and place of the meeting at three locations within the district and publish notices in a widely distributed publication. In addition, all State-required annual financial reports are published on the Department of Local Affairs website and viewable by the public.

In addition to these steps required by the State, the Town has included requirements in the Town of Erie’s Metro District Review Policy. It is important to note that the requirements in the Review Policy do not apply to Metro Districts that were approved prior to July 26, 2022, when the Board of Trustees approved the Review Policy. Also, once a Metro District is formed, the Town of Erie is not responsible for the day to day management of the district. Like any other governmental entity, the members of the Metro District Board of Directors are responsible and residents of the district should reach out to them with questions or concerns. The role of the Town occurs only at approval.

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Outdoor Warning Sirens

Show All Answers

1. Where are the Outdoor Warning Sirens in Erie?

In Erie, sirens are located at (see them on a map):

MVFPD's Station 6 is located at Erie Parkway and Bonanza Drive in the Grandview neighborhood
MVFPD's Station 8 is located in Vista Ridge.
111th Street in Lafayette, which services southwestern Erie.

More than thirty outdoor warning sirens are in located across Boulder County. The sirens are in Boulder, Longmont, Lafayette, Lyons, Eldorado Springs, Jamestown, Superior, Erie, and the University of Colorado at Boulder.

2. When are the Outdoor Warning Sirens Tested?

In Erie, the Outdoor Warning Sirens are tested audibly on the first Monday of April.

All Boulder County sirens undergo weekly tests throughout the year using a software program that performs a “silent” test. All communities have been using the silent test system for years with a high degree of reliability. Audible testing is an additional way to check if sirens are working properly.

For testing details, visit the agency that facilitates testing, the Boulder Office of Disaster Management.

3. What should I do if I hear the Outdoor Warning Sirens?

The outdoor warning sirens are sounded only in the event of an emergency or during pre-announced tests. The sirens are activated through the Boulder County Sheriff's Communications, Boulder Police and Fire Communications, and Longmont Police and Fire Communication centers.

When you hear a siren, you should:

Tune in to radio stations KOA 850 AM, KBCO 1190 AM, or 97.3 FM
Turn on local television news channels (2, 4, 7, 9, or 31). Listen for a voice message if you are near a voice-activated siren
Refrain from calling 911

4. I did not hear the Outdoor Warning Siren. What now?

Outdoor warning sirens may not be heard inside buildings. They are primarily intended to warn persons in outdoor areas.

It is estimated that about 50% of the public can hear a siren on a still day. During heavy rains or stormy weather, the percentage of people who hear a warning siren is greatly reduced because of the noise associated with the storm and because more people are indoors.

It is recommended that you opt-in to the other methods to receive Emergency Communications. To get started, visit the Emergency Alerts webpage.

If you would like to submit commentary about the testing, please reach out to the Boulder County Office of Disaster Management.

5. Why are the Outdoor Warning Sirens tested?

Tests aim to familiarize people who work and live in different places with the sirens.

Additionally, it is important to ensure the sirens work properly and educate the public about what action to take when they hear the sirens.

When you hear a siren, you should:

Tune in to radio stations KOA 850 AM, KBCO 1190 AM, or 97.3 FM
Turn on local television news channels (2, 4, 7, 9, or 31). Listen for a voice message if you are near a voice-activated siren
Refrain from calling 911

6. What additional Emergency Alerts are there?

Emergency Alerts

The Erie Police Department recommends all Erie residents opt-in to all three public safety answering points' emergency notification systems.
Visit the Emergency Alerts webpage to voluntarily opt-in.

Additional Alerts

It's always important to have multiple ways of receiving a warning. Also tune in to:

Social Media (trusted sources): Twitter, Ring, Nextdoor, Facebook, Instagram
TV
Family
Landline phone
NOAA Weather Radio
Outdoor Warning Sirens

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Parks & Recreation

Show All Answers

1. Does the Town of Erie rent out facilities?

The Town of Erie Parks and Recreation Department accepts applications for facility rentals such as park shelters and athletic fields.

Athletic Field Request Form

Park Shelter Request Form

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Parks & Recreation - Personal/Partner Training

Show All Answers

1. How do I pick a personal trainer?: All trainer biographies can be found online. These bios provide insight into a trainers certifications and specializations. Clients can choose a trainer from the various biographies or they can choose to be assigned a trainer by Fitness Management.

2. When do I need to pay for my sessions?

New Client(s): Purchase sessions at the Guest Service desk after your initial assessment with your new trainer. Your first session with your trainer will be about 30 minutes and will consist of fitness assessments and getting to know your trainer, this initial session is complimentary.

Returning Client: Additional sessions may be purchased using your Amilia account, or you are welcome to purchase them in-person with Guest Service staff at the Erie Community Center.

3. How do I know if the trainer I want will fit my availability?: Your request form and contact information will be given to the trainer you requested. Within 24-48 hours of receiving your information, they will contact you via a phone call to set up your first session. Availability will be based on both the trainer’s schedule and yours.

4. How do I schedule my first session?: Your request form and contact information will be given to the trainer you requested, and they will contact you within 3-5 business days to schedule your first session.

5. What can I expect during my first session?: The first session will be an in-depth consultation to assess exercise needs, goals, and constraints based on your health history. Your trainer will then create an individualized training plan to fit your needs.

6. Do sessions ever expire?: Yes. All packages/sessions are non-transferable and will expire after one year from the purchase date.

7. What if I need to reschedule a session or cancel?: A 24-hour notice is required for all cancellations. For cancellations received less than 24-hours prior to your scheduled appointment, you will be charged a late cancellation fee equivalent to a prepaid session. To re-schedule an appointment, please contact the trainer directly at the number provided to you by your trainer.

8. Am I allowed to provide my own personal trainer?: No. Personal training in exchange for money or services is not permitted in the community center or on Town-owned facilities by anyone other than authorized Town of Erie staff. Staff reserves the right to monitor workouts that appear to be commercial personal training sessions.

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Planning Division

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1. Zoning & Subdivisions

The Zoning Map identifies the zoning district and any Planned Unit Development Overlay for properties annexed into the Town. Links for the zoning documents related to Planned Development zone districts and for Planned Unit Development overlays are listed below. The Unified Development Code (UDC) contains the subdivision and zoning regulations for the Town.

Planned Development (PD) Zoning Map/Guide List

Arapahoe Ridge Filing No. 1 (east of 111^th St.): Follows regulations for LR in UDC
Arapahoe Ridge Filing No. 2: (west of 111^th St.): Follows regulation for SR in UDC
Arapahoe Ridge Filing No. 3 (Commercial Center): Arapahoe Ridge Market Place Planned Development, Filing No. 3 – 1^st Amendment
Arapahoe Ridge Filing No. 4 (Beasley Drive area): Development Plan Arapahoe Ridge Filing No. 4
Candlelight Ridge Subdivision: PD Zoning 2nd Amendment
Canyon Creek, Country Fields, Country Meadows, Cottonwood Vista, Brennan by the Lake: Canyon Creek PD Amendment No. 10
Cube Smart Self Storage: Zahn Development Guide Minor Development
Erie Commons: Erie Commons PD Zoning Map – Amendment No. 9 & Erie Commons Development Guide Amendment No. 9
Erie Corporate Center
Erie Town Center: Erie Town Center PD Zoning Map & Erie Town Center PD Development Guide
Erie Village: Planned Development PD Development Plan, Sixth Amendment
Grandview Development Plan
Kenosha Farms: Follows regulations for LR in UDC
Kenosha Estates: Follows regulations for ER in UDC
Nine Mile Corner PD: DP Amendment No. 1
Northridge Filing 1 & 2: Follows regulations for SR in UDC
Northridge Filing 3: Follows regulations for LR in UDC
Summerfield PD: Development Plan
Vista Pointe: Barb Property Amendment No. 1 General Development Plan
Vista Ridge Development Plan: Original and Amendments 1, 3, 4, 5 & 6

Planned Unit Development (PUD) Overlay Zoning Map/Guide List

Candlelight Estate: Final Development Plan Planned Unit Development
Colliers Hill: Bridgewater PUD Amendment No. 5
Compass Filing No. 4: PUD Zoning Map
Creekside Townhomes: Final Development Plan PUD
Erie Airpark: Lot 2, Erie Airpark Subdivision Replat A PUD Zoning Map
Erie Highlands: PUD Zoning Map Amendment No. 2
Flatiron Meadows: PUD Overlay Map Amendment No. 3
Morgan Hill: PUD Overlay Amendment No. 1
Parkdale: PUD Overlay Map, Amendment No. 2
Rex Ranch: PUD Zoning Map
Sunwest North Subdivision: PUD Overlay Map
Westerly: PUD Overlay

2. Development User Guide & Fees

Land Use Application & Fees

A Land Use Application and Fee is required for each Planning review process. The application type and fee for submittal are on the second page of the application. Other related fees such as Impact Fees, Development Fees and Engineering and Building Fees are in the Fee Schedule.

Before filing a Land Use Application and Fee, please submit a Pre-Application form and supporting materials and the Planning Division will schedule a virtual pre-application meeting for you with staff. Applications can be submitted electronically and a virtual meeting can be scheduled by contacting the Planning Division at planningapplication@erieco.gov.

User Guides for Unified Development Code

User Guides provide insight into the review process, submittal requirements, and approval criteria of development applications. Please refer to the Unified Development Code for complete regulation details.

3. Standard Forms & Templates

Below is a list of Planning's standard forms and templates related to land use applications. Requirements for when each form is used can be found in our Unified Development Code.

The Mineral Estate Notification form is required for the following land use applications: Initial Zoning; Rezoning; Planned Unit Development; Planned Development; Preliminary Plat; and Special Review Use.

4. Population Estimates

The Planning Division prepares estimates of the Town’s year-end population. Recent research and analysis indicates the Town’s population as of Dec. 1, 2022, was 34,828. Based on these year-end estimates,the population of Erie has increased 2,176 people or approximately 6.7% since the end of 2021 (end-of-year population estimate of 32,652 in 2021).

This estimate is derived from several variables including:

Number of dwelling units
Vacancy rate
Average household size for single-family and multi-family dwellings
Population living in group quarters

In addition to data generated from the Town of Erie, other data sources are consulted for these estimates, including the Census Bureau and the State Demography Office (SDO). Census data includes counts from the decennial census (2020) and the American Community Survey (ACS). The ACS is an ongoing statistical survey administered by the U.S. Census Bureau that reports 5-year and 1-year estimates for several detailed variables; information from this survey generates demographic, social, housing, and economic data. The SDO collects local data and uses this information to generate statewide, county-level, and municipal estimates for population and housing.

A discussion of each of the variables used to develop the population estimate follows in the memo.

Number of Dwelling Units

As of April 1, 2020, the US Census Bureau placed the number of dwelling units in the Town of Erie at 10,332. Calculations done by Planning staff subsequent to the 2020 Census estimated that there were 11,258 dwelling units available for occupancy in the Town as of Dec. 31, 2021.

Data indicate that an additional 984 dwelling units were issued certificates of occupancy (COs) between Jan. 1, 2022 and Dec. 31, 2022; this included 697 single family units (detached and attached) and 287 multifamily units. In addition, eight units were added through annexation and one residential unit was demolished in 2022. Based on this information, the estimated number of dwelling units available for occupancy at the end of 2022 was 12,249 (=11,258+984+8-1).

Vacancy Rate

The 2020 Census reported a vacancy rate of 2.8% for the Town of Erie; for the end of year 2021 population estimate, this vacancy rate was used. The American Community Survey (ACS) also reports vacancy rates; the average vacancy rate reported in the current 5-year ACS Estimates (2017 – 2021) for Erie was just over 2.0%. Typically, 1-Year ACS estimates are also reported, however this information is not currently available. The State Demography Office (SDO) also tracks vacancy for municipalities in Colorado; in 2022, they reported Erie’s vacancy at 4.3% (for 2021). Local information supports that vacancy rates may be slightly higher than the lowest rates observed a few years ago, but that the town’s vacancy rates are still relatively low. Based on ACS data, SDO data and anecdotal information collected by staff, a vacancy rate of 3.0% has been used for these estimates.

Average Household Size

The US Census Bureau reported the average household size in the Town of Erie was 2.99 persons per household in 2020. The average household size reported in the 5-year ACS Estimates (2017 – 2021) for Erie was 2.97 per household. The SDO reported an average household size of 2.99 for Erie. The Town also recognizes that multifamily housing typically has smaller household sizes than single family housing. Since the Town is starting to permit more of this type of housing, a separate average household size for multifamily housing (apartments & condos) will be used. For this estimate, the Town has used a household size of 2.99 persons per household for single family housing (93.4% of total occupied units) and 2.1 persons per household for multifamily (6.6% of total occupied units),

Group Quarters Population

The 2020 Census reported that there were no group quarters present in the Town of Erie and no new group quarters have been constructed within the Town.

Dec. 31, 2022 Population Estimate

12,249	Total dwelling units
x 0.97	Occupancy rate (3.0% vacancy rate)
11,882	Occupied dwelling units
x 2.99	Average household size for Single Family Households (93.4% of total HH)
33,181	Persons living in Single Family Households
x 2.10	Average household size for Multi Family Households (6.6% of total HH)
1,647	Persons living in Multi Family Households
34,828	Persons living in householdss
34,828	Town of Erie 2022 population estimate

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Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How do I request traffic enforcement?: To request traffic enforcement, including the speed enforcement trailer placement, please email pdtraffic@erieco.gov.

Any other requests involving speed limits, stop sign and crosswalk placement, etc., please contact the Town Engineer via a Service Request through ErieSubmit.

2. May I register my bicycle/bike with Erie?

Erie Police encourages owners to register their bicycles for recovery should the bike become lost or stolen. There is no fee for this service provided by the Erie Police. Simply visit the Police Records window at 1000 Telleen Avenue and complete the Bicycle Registration Form.

Be prepared to supply the bicycle make, model, color, serial number and any other descriptive information.

To speak to someone about a found, lost, or stolen bicycle, please see the Evidence webpage: https://www.erieco.gov/2120/Evidence.

3. Does the Town have a Code Enforcement Officer?: All sworn Police Officers of the Erie Police Department share the responsibility of responding to code enforcement complaints. In addition, the Town of Erie Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Officer is responsible for all building and zoning complaints and violations.
Code Enforcement

4. What can I do if I become a victim of identity theft or fraud?

What can I do if I become a victim of Identity Theft or Fraud?

If you become the victim of identity theft, it is important to act immediately to stop the thief’s further use of your identity. Immediately make a report to the Erie Police Department by contacting Dispatch at 303-441-4444. You may be required to complete an Identity Theft or Fraud Packet. These packets, and additional information can be found online at https://www.erieco.gov/258/Report-A-Fraud.

5. What are some common frauds and scams in Erie?

There are several common frauds/scams we have seen an influx in.

Phone scams are pretty common. The criminal(s) call, identifying themselves as someone such as being a police officer, being with the IRS or being with a financial institution. The criminal may attempt to gain personal identifying or banking information by asking you to confirm your name, date of birth, social security number and account numbers.

The criminal may also request you purchase a gift card or multiple gift cards of their specified choosing (such as Amazon or Apple gift cards). The criminal may make threats such as putting a warrant out for your arrest if you don’t comply and provide the gift card number on the back of the gift card(s).

Criminals also try to commit fraud by calling on Ad’s such as Craigslist and attempt to negotiate or send more money than what the item is selling or renting for. The criminal then persuades you to send them the amount over paid or provided account or personal identifying information.

Things to remember;

* The police do not accept any sort of payment via gift card.

* If you suspect a call is fraudulent involving a banking institution request, call the bank by looking up the number yourself and not calling the number provided by the possible criminal.

* Never provide any personal information to unsolicited phone calls.

* If it sounds too good to be true or sounds suspicious then trust your judgment and don’t provide information which would leave you open for being a victim of fraud.

6. How do I report an abandoned vehicle?

Please call 303-441-4444 to report an abandoned vehicle.

It is helpful to provide the following information about the vehicle to submit a report:

The exact address
Whether the steering column is broken
Condition
Make and model
Color
Body style
License plate number and state

The police will decide if the vehicle is classified as abandoned. In some cases, the vehicle owner may receive a courtesy notice from the Police Department.

7. What is the curfew for minors?

It is unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen (18) years to be or remain in or upon any street, alley, park, playground, schoolyard, or other public area subsequent to the hour of ten o’clock (10:00) P.M., or prior to the hour of five o’clock (5:00) A.M., Sunday through Thursday, or subsequent to the hours of twelve o’clock (12:00) midnight on Friday and Saturday and prior to five o’clock (5:00) A.M. of the following day; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection do not apply to a minor who is:

Engaged in lawful employment; or
Accompanied by a parent, guardian or other person of the age of twenty one (21) years, when that parent, guardian or person has permission to have the custody and care of such minor from the minor’s parent or guardian; or
Accompanied by any person between the age of eighteen (18) years and twenty one (21) years, having in his or her possession written permission from the parent or guardian of the minor to have the care or custody of such minor; or
Upon an emergency errand or legitimate business directed by the parent, guardian, or other adult person having the care and custody of the minor.

8. Are there signs posted to warn of roads with weight limits?: Signage has been and continues to be posted at the entrance of roads leading into and through Erie. Yes, some of the signs provide quick notice but the Town is not allowed to place them in other jurisdictions. What does this mean for a truck driver? For a truck driver not doing business in the Town of Erie, the driver should exit (right or left turn as appropriate) on the first road available. The Town has not and would never expect a truck driver to “back up or complete a U-turn”. This is simply unsafe.

9. Does EPD have a traffic ticket quota?: No. Officers are expected to enforce traffic laws every shift and have complete discretion on issuing a ticket or not. Overall, officers give significantly more warnings than tickets.

10. Who do I call if I have a raccoon or skunk in my yard?: Officers are not trained or equipped to handing raccoons, skunks or other wild animals. These animals require special training and handling. Several local companies provide services for their relocation/removal. If the animal is considered to be wildlife (fox, deer, elk, etc) the correct contact would be Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

11. Will the Erie Police Department capture and relocate wildlife from my property?: No, the Erie Police Department will not capture and relocated wildlife from private property. However, some incidents involving wildlife will be documented with a case repot.

12. How can I safely store my firearms?

Safe Gun Storage
Thousands of firearms are stolen in Colorado each year. Attorney General Phil Weiser has partnered with local law enforcement officials across Colorado to remind firearm owners to secure guns when not used to save lives. The Erie Police Department and 20th Judicial District Attorney Michael Dougherty, have collaborated to create public service announcements and share responsible ownership and safe storage tips. To view the recommendations and public service announcements, visit www.coag.gov/firearmsafety.

Some common safety tips include the following:

Store your firearms in a locked cabinet, safe, gun vault or storage case when not in use, ensuring they are in a location inaccessible by children and cannot be handled by anyone without your permission.
Store your ammunition in a locked location separate from firearms.
Use a gun locking device that renders the firearm inoperable when not in use. A gun lock should be used as an additional safety precaution and not as a substitute for secure storage.
Always unload, clean and place your firearms in their secure storage location immediately after returning from a hunting trip or a day at the range.

13. Does the Erie Police Department mail out free police patches upon request?: While the Erie Police Department appreciates the interest and support, they are unable to provide police patches due to security concerns.

14. What can be done about unreasonable or loud sounds?

A good neighbor is mindful of how their sound activities (music, repairs, gatherings, etc.) might affect their neighbor's quality of life. An even better neighbor is aware of the Town of Erie's 'Unlawful Noise' ordinance, which details the decibel sound levels per premise type, time of day, specific days of the week, and exceptions.

Violations
Below is a sampling of violations of the 'Unlawful Noise' ordinance or state statute (C.R.S. 25-12-103):

Amplified sounds exceeding 55 dB(A) during the day can be heard inside a home or from 25 feet away.
The use of tools (power, pneumatic, etc.) exceeds 50 dB(A) after 9 p.m. or before 7 a.m. and can be heard inside a home or from 25 feet away.
A gathering of people or a motor vehicle (exhaust, engine, brakes) creating noise that exceeds the allowable decibel levels.

Report
If you witness or hear 'Unlawful Noise' and feel safe doing so, please share these ordinances with the violator and ask the violator to consider quieting the activity. If this is unsuccessful, please call the police department’s non-emergency number at 303-441-4444 to report unlawful noise violations. Either a Code Enforcement Officer or Erie Police Officer will contact you.

More
To view the premise and time specifics, and learn more, visit the Town of Erie Unlawful Noise Ordinance.

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Public Health & Environment

Show All Answers

1. How do I dispose of my household hazardous waste?: You may dispose of household hazardous waste at facilities in Boulder and/or Weld County. Boulder County Household Hazardous Waste Facility
5880 Butte Mill Rd
Boulder Hours: Wednesdays 8:00 am to 3:30 pm, and Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 am to 12 noon.
Weld County South Household Hazardous Waste Facility
5500 Hwy. 52
Dacono, CO 80514
Hours: Open Fridays and the first and third Saturday of each month 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

2. Does the Town of Erie conduct mosquito control spraying operations? If so, how can I learn more about the pesticides being used?: The Town of Erie contracts with vendors to provide the Town’s mosquito surveillance and control activities. When sites are found with mosquito larvae, technicians apply larvicides to control the mosquitoes before they become adults. Contractors will also provide any needed adult spraying services for the Town of Erie throughout the summer. Adult spraying needs will be based upon a combination of Public Health Department recommendations, residential complaints, adult mosquito population numbers and the season’s potential West Nile Virus activity. Mosquito Control

3. What are my recycling options in the Town of Erie?: Trash and Recycling haulers operating within the Town of Erie offer various levels of recycling services and options. Please contact your hauler directly. Additionally, the Town of Erie Department of Public Works maintains a Recycling Center located at: 1000 Brigss Street, Erie, Colorado 80516. DPW also hosts a Spring and Fall Clean-Up Day for residents to discard unwanted household items. Visit DPW online for more information. Recycling and Waste Disposal

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Public Works

Show All Answers

1. How do I start or end my water service?

Contact the Utility Billing Department at 303-926-2700.

Verbal requests are not accepted; for the purchase or sale of a home, the title company will transfer services. For rental properties, the landlord must request to add, change, or remove a tenant.

2. Does the Town plan on issuing mandatory watering restrictions this year?: No. The Town asks that residents voluntarily limit their outdoor water irrigation to twice weekly between the hours of 7:00 pm and 7:00 am. Learn more by visiting the Water Conservation Plan web page.

3. What are the current water restrictions?: The Town is currently under a Normal Drought Stage. Please click on the hyperlink for more information regarding the Town's Drought Stages.

4. How do I report a pothole?: During normal business hours, you may contact 303-926-2872 or use the online Service Request located on the homepage of our website. After hours, please call 303-926-2858.

5. Who do I contact about broken concrete?: The primary contact is Cory Weiner, Streets Supervisor, at 303-926-2883. The secondary contact is Chris "George" Hubert, Assistance O&M Manager at 303-926-2889.

6. How do I rent a hydrant meter?: A deposit of $3,000 must be paid at Town Hall (645 Holbrook Street). This receipt should be taken to the Leon A Wurl Service Center (150 Bonnell Ave) for further processing and pick up of a hydrant meter.

7. How do I get on the Town's vendor list?: Sign up for Notify Me to receive notification when a project is out for proposal/bid.

8. What is the truck doing to sewer pipelines?: Sewer and storm jetting is the process of cleaning sewer pipelines that carry waste water from homes, offices and industries. It is an important responsibility of every home and city to keep sewers clean to prevent overflow, blockages, and foul smell. The jet truck is designed to move wet and slurry material helps clean the sewer and storm lines.

9. Why is my water cloudy?

Conducting fire flow tests and flushing hydrants are a routine component of a good water distribution maintenance program. When a fire hydrant is opened, the velocity of the flowing water disturbs sediment at the bottom of the pipes and the water turns cloudy. To correct this, open multiple faucets in your home until the water becomes clear.

Flushing hydrants is an important preventive maintenance activity that verifies proper operation of the hydrant and ensures adequate water flow will be available in the event of a fire emergency. Flushing also removes sediment and deposits that naturally accumulate in water pipes.

10. Is cloudy water safe to drink?

Drinking a refreshing cold glass of water is a great feeling. Cloudy tap water, sometimes referred to as milky or white water is likely due to trapped air or a build-up of dissolved particles in the water pipes. It is important to note the cloudy water from the tap is completely harmless.

11. Are storm inlets inspected and cleaned?: "All stormwater management systems, whether gray or green, require maintenance. Appropriate operation and maintenance activities ensure that stormwater practices will continue to function properly and yield expected water quality and environmental benefits, protect public safety, meet legal standards, and protect communities’ financial investment." – EPA.gov

12. Why does the Town use video inspections?

CCTV is the use of remote systems and video inspection to help the Town of Erie not only create a historical timeline of the system, but to also find the following;

Root intrusions
Pipe cracking
Offset joint pipes
Corrosion
Deterioration over time
Poor installation or previous repair efforts
Accidental puncturing
Severe blockage

13. How does the Town maintain water and sewer pipelines?

Sewer & Storm Jetting

The process of cleaning sewer pipelines that carry waste water from homes, offices and industries. It is an important responsibility of every home and city to keep sewers clean to prevent overflow, blockages, and foul smell
The use of a combination jet truck which is designed to move wet and slurry material helps clean the sewer and storm lines

Manhole Inspections

Important for access to clean the pipe line
Ensure structure is safe for entry
Create a timeline for rehab

Valve Exercising

The purpose of the Valve Exercising Program is to exercise main line valves throughout the distribution system to assure reliable operation and maintain water quality. Each valve is operated through a full cycle and returned to its normal position

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Rad Rover Kids Obstacle Adventure

Show All Answers

1. What do I need to bring for my child?

Strongly encouraged: A CREATIVE COSTUME OF YOUR KIDS CHOICE!!

Hat to help block sun
Sunscreen
Filled water bottle to stay hydrated
- We will have one water station on the course and also at the finish festival area
Comfortable athletic shoes. (NO OPEN TOED SHOES ALLOWED)
Extra set of clothes to change into if desired. (your ROVER may be a bit muddy/dirty after this adventure)
Each participant will receive a race number (with pins to attach to clothing).

2. Will we get wet or muddy?: If you'd like to, yes! If you don't want to, no! There are several obstacles which have water and mud in them, and you are always welcome to go around them. In fact, you can skip any obstacles that you'd like to throughout the entire course.

3. As a parent, can I join along side them during the event?

YES, and it's very much encouraged, but not necessary! (why not? join them while you can, as they probably won't want you to join them at Prom in 10 years!)

When registering, please indicate the name of the 'Guardian/Parent' that will be joining the kid(s).
If this person changes, no problem, just notify us at packet pickup.
The SIDE-KICK must also sign a waiver.
It is Free for the SIDE-KICK. (but no, you don't get a rad medal or shirt)

4. Will there be traffic on the route?: The course is designed on both paved sidewalks, hard packed gravel, and grass. No traffic will be present on the course other than the RAD ROVER participants. There will be volunteers and officials along the course to ensure the safety of the ROVERS (Kids). There will be arrows on corners and turns within the courses as well.

5. What happens at the end of the event?: There will be sponsor/vendor booths on-site with fun give-a-ways and activities for your kids, as well as Kona Ice available for purchase. Medals will be handed out individually at the finish line as each kid completes Rad Rover. We encourage all Rovers and spectators to stay around for this event.

6. What ages are able to participate in the event?

Maximum Age Limit - not older than 11 years of age on event date.

Minimum Age Limit – 3 years old on day of event

If you have a child that is not in this age group, but would really like to join, please email us at specialevents@erieco.gov.

7. Will times be recorded?: No, this is not a timed event.

8. What happens if it rains or there is bad weather?: The event will still go on! Unless there is weather that puts our runners, volunteers, and event staff in physical danger, we'll still be on for a great time! If the event is cancelled prior to event day due to unsafe weather or other circumstances out of our control, your registration will be good for next year’s event.

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Renewable Energy

Show All Answers

1. What is the difference between onsite renewable energy programs and subscription programs?

Onsite renewable energy programs are utility programs that support or incentivize the installation of rooftop solar panels. Examples include net-metering (offered by both Xcel Energy and United Power) and Solar*Rewards® (offered by Xcel Energy).
Renewable energy subscription programs allow customers to pay extra to access the renewable energy credits produced by renewable energy not produced through the customer’s rooftop solar panels. For instance, Xcel Energy’s Windsource® program allows customers to pay a small additional fee to offset their electricity use with electricity produced by Colorado windfarms.

2. How to I select the best solar panel contractor?

If you’re looking to get solar panels installed on your roof, always get at least three quotes.

Check out Xcel Energy’s tips on hiring a solar contractor or United Power’s list of questions to help you navigate your selection process.

Use a pre-approved list of businesses, like the one provided by Boulder County’s EnergySmart program. Even if you don’t live in Boulder County, all of the contractors listed have demonstrated interest in helping residents complete renewable energy projects. The Colorado Solar and Storage Association can also help you navigate potential contractors. Or check out the contractors authorized through the Colorado RENU loan program.

3. How can I find out the solar potential of my home?: Get an estimate of your home’s solar potential using free online tools, such as Google Project Sunroof or NRELS’s PVWatts Calculator.

4. Do solar panels increase home value?: Adding solar to your home now can increase its resale value by as much as $15,000

5. What is the average upfront investment in rooftop solar and how long does it typically take to recoup that investment?

According to EnergySage: “Colorado’s average cost of a solar panel installation ranges from $13,302 to $17,998. On a cost per watt ($/W) basis, you can expect a solar panel installation in Colorado to range in price from $2.66 to $3.60”

Depending on a variety of factors (system size, financing, incentives) roof top solar systems typically pay back in 8 years. Solar panels have an average expected lifetime of 25 years.

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Single Hauler Contract

Show All Answers

1. Why would Erie want to organize a single hauler system?

Since 2013, the Town’s Community Survey results have shown consistently strong support for the Town to organize curbside waste, recycling, and composting collection services for residents. Survey results show support between 65% - 86%, depending on how the question was asked biennially for the past nine years.

On November 2, 2021, staff presented to the Board of Trustees the results of an extensive community engagement campaign and provided them with recommendations for Waste Diversion Programs & Polices. A single hauler contract for residents who are not represented by a HOA was identified as one of the most impactful actions to take to increase waste diversion, provide access and equitable service rates, lower traffic and therefore tailpipe emissions, and increase service levels and public safety.

2. Why does Erie have a Pay-As-You-Throw system?: Since the 1920s, communities that have implemented a Pay as You Throw (PAYT) system have realized benefits of fair and equitable fees for service, increased recycling and composting, and less trash being buried in the landfill. PAYT charges for only what you throw out and provides financial incentives to compost and recycle more, creating less landfilled trash. The EPA recognizes the PAYT model as encompassing environmental stability, equity, and economic stability. As of 2018, more than 7,000 cities and towns across America operate under a PAYT model; many examples can be found in local municipalities such as Loveland who have had PAYT since the 1990s.

3. How do the fees for this program work?: Your monthly price depends on the size of your landfill cart. Recycling collection, organics collection, annual large item pickup, and yard waste pickup are all included in the base service price. In other cities and towns that operate under the same PAYT model, customers will receive one 96 gallon recycling cart and one 32 gallon organics cart as standard, however, if you would like a smaller 64 gallon recycling cart or a larger 96 gallon organics composting cart your monthly price will not be affected. These details will all be determined during the contract negotiations with the Town in Fall 2022.

4. How much will this new service cost?: This will be determined by the hauler during the contract negotiations with the Town in Fall 2022. The Town will grade the bids through a triple bottom line matrix based on social, environmental, and economic merits. The more homes that sign up for this service, the more affordable it becomes.

5. How will I be billed for service?: The Town will either add the new waste collection service to your existing monthly utility bill or the hauler will charge once per month. This will be determined during the contract negotiations with the Town in Fall 2022.

6. I am in a Homeowner’s Association, is my house included in the program?: If your HOA contracts with a waste company to provide service to all of the households within your neighborhood, you are not included in the city program, although your HOA may voluntarily opt into the program at any time. If your HOA does not provide waste collection, your household is included in the program.

7. I am in a homeowners association or a multi-family complex, and not enrolled in the Town’s waste program. How does this affect me?

Multi-family buildings with eight residential units or more are not required to participate in the Town waste program, although they can voluntarily join. In March 2020, the Town of Erie Board of Trustees approved Ordinance 15-2020 to expand the Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) rate system to all residential areas in Erie. This ordinance affects waste haulers who operate in Erie. All waste haulers are required to submit documentation showing compliance as part of the Town’s licensing regulations, which provide for the following:

 Curbside service with pricing based on volume, with a 32-gallon minimum size and increasing increments (e.g. 32-, 64-, and 96-gallon sizing).

 Provision for unlimited recycling service to be included in the total monthly cost.

 Curbside composting collection is offered to all residents.

 All haulers who provide hauler service to Erie residents must be licensed in Erie. Additional licensing requirements such as reporting of overall diversion of materials, equipment standards, and proof of insurance.

8. Can I still contract with another company for service?: Yes, residents may hire any waste hauler licensed to operate within the Town. However, if your household is included in the Town waste program, you will still be billed at the minimum level of service.

9. What day will my trash be picked up?: This will be determined by the hauler during the contract negotiations with the Town in Fall 2022.

10. Can I discontinue service if I am moving or my home is vacant?: No, in order to maintain the lowest possible pricing, each household in the program will be billed for monthly service. You may request the lowest 32-gallon level of service if your home is vacant for long periods of time. If you are moving, the trash bill will be switched to the next resident at the same time the water bill is switched over. Please leave your Town carts safely stored at the property for the next resident. Properties with active demolition permits can be removed from the program.

11. What is accepted in my recycling cart?

Please see the list of acceptable materials . *

* Please note that the above list is what is currently acceptable items. This list may change depending on which hauler is awarded the final contract.

12. What is accepted in my composting cart?

Please see the list of acceptable materials .*

* Please note that the above list is what is currently acceptable items. This list may change depending on which hauler is awarded the final contract.

13. Who should I contact to inquire about the Pay-As-You-Throw Single Hauler Plan?: You can email ContactUs@erieco.gov or SustainableErie@erieco.gov.

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Singletrack Trails

Show All Answers

1. Singletracks Hours?

The trail system will be open daily from sunrise to sunset when the trail status is posted as open. The trail system may be closed when snow, ice, wet, or muddy conditions are present or for occasional maintenance operations or a permitted special event is scheduled to occur.

Subscribe to text or email alerts for all closure notification. Closures will be posted on the Erie Singletrack web page.

2. Why do you close the Erie Singletrack?

Parks & Recreation staff have the right to close the facility at any time without notice. Staff will enact closures if the following criteria are met: wet/muddy conditions present, snowy/icy conditions present, Parks Division maintenance operations, and/or Town-permitted special event. Staff will not implement partial closures – Entire trail closures will be enacted if any conditions are present that meet the established trail closure protocols. If closures are enacted, they will remain in effect for a minimum of a 24 hour period from the time that they were last assessed.

We appreciate your patience during these times.

3. When are trails assessed and the status posted whether they open or closed?

Staff will assess trail conditions on a daily basis at 7 a.m. during peak usage months (March through November) and post the status of the trails if there is a change in the closure status. Staff will assess conditions during winter months (December through February) less frequently than during peak usage months. Staff will assess and post closures on an as needed or weekly basis.

Closures will be posted on the Erie Singletrack web page.

4. How do I sign up for closure notifications?: Sign up for the singletrack trail closure alerts and text message notifications at www.erieco.gov/notifyme

5. Do I have to wear a helmet? Pads?: Helmets are required, other protective equipment is strongly recommended.

6. Does the Erie Singletrack have restrooms?: Yes, portable toilets are located at the parking lot.

7. Does the Erie Singletrack have a drinking fountain or water spigot?: There is no access to drinking water on-site. Please bring water to remain adequately hydrated when utilizing the trail system.

8. Can I run/hike on the trails or do I have to be on a bike?: The trail system is open to all user groups, with the exception of horseback riding. However, the trails located within the Erie Singletrack trails at Sunset Open Space were specifically designed for downhill bike usage. Hiking and trail running are highly discouraged in these areas as bikes are often traveling at high speeds and can quickly approach any other users and pose safety hazards. Bikers have the right of way at all times on these trails. The trails located at Sunset West Trails (located to the west of the singletrack trails) are better suited for trail running, hiking, and dog walking.

9. Can I bring my dog to the Erie Singletrack? On the trails?: Dog walking on these trails are highly discouraged in these areas as bikes are often traveling at high speeds and can quickly approach any other trail users and pose safety hazards. Bikers have the right of way at all times on these trails. The trails located at Sunset West Trails (located to the west of the singletrack trails) are better suited for trail running, hiking, and dog walking. Dogs are allowed but must be on-leash and attended at all times.

10. Is there be a fee to use the Erie Singletrack?: Individual use of the park is FREE--there is no charge for admission.

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Smart Meters

Show All Answers

1. How can I detect leaks in my home?

The Town maximizes efficiency by managing meter readings with Smart Meters. More than 80 percent of Erie homes are equipped with the meters.

By creating an EyeOnWater account, residents are able to...

monitor usage
view results of conservation efforts
and be alerted to leaks (extraneous usage) via text or emails!

To get started, create an account, and be sure to download the app!

More information available on the Smart Meters webpage.

The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals.
Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

2. Can I see the usage information from the meter itself?

Not exactly. Meters cannot display the breadth of information - but, there is have an app for that!

Meter information is stored and transmitted once a day. View daily, weekly, and monthly usage on the EyeOnWater tool (available as an app!). Learn more on the Smart Meters webpage.

Please do not tamper with meters.

The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals.
Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

EyeOnWater

3. Are there any health impacts from Smart Meters?

The Town of Erie Smart Meters specifically utilize radiofrequency (RF) technology. This frequency is part of the electromagnetic spectrum which represents no known health hazards. Radio and television broadcasting, cellphones, personal communications services (PCS), pagers, cordless telephones, business radio, radio communications for police and fire departments, amateur radio, internet routers, smart TVs, and any satellite communications are just a few of the many telecommunications applications of RF energy.

When considering any risks to exposure - key factors are the power and frequency of the emission as well as distance from the device and time of exposure. Smart Meters emit significantly lower exposure levels than most other typical devices and meet or exceed all Federal Communications Commission testing and certification. Additionally, the transmitter for the Smart Meter is almost always located outside of your home and much further away than other typical devices that use higher frequencies of RF technology.

The Town of Erie Public Works does not currently have an option for opting out of this service and as a utility customer, Erie finds it in the best interest of the Town to have Smart Meters installed on every home by 2026. Please refer to Municipal Code 6-6-5 “Tampering with utility meter” for additional reference. For more information regarding RF technologies please visit: www.fcc.gov/general/radio-frequency-safety-0

4. Can Smart Meter radio frequencies interfere with medical devices?: The Smart Meters used in Erie have been certified by the FCC and should not interfere with devices in or around your home or business. A study by the American Cancer Society examined the effect of Smart Meters on pacemakers and implantable defibrillators and found they did not interfere with these devices. Modern pacemakers are shielded and have built-in features that insulate them against outside interference, including transmission from meters and household appliances like microwaves, cell phones, and Wi-Fi.

5. How do I schedule my upgrade to a Smart Meter?

No appointment, or prompting by customers is necessary. Upgrades have already been pre-planned and scheduled by the Public Works Department. You will be notified in advance if an upgrade will occur, and you can expect little interruption to service.

Town Staff will knock on your door to inform you that your water will be shut-off for approximately 10-15 minutes. If you are home and that timeframe does not work, they will coordinate a time that does.

Once the meter has been installed, a door hanger will be left on your front door with information on how to create an account to view your water usage and how to download the app. Your meter will operate as normal with or without creating an EyeOneWater account and/or downloading the app.

For more information visit the Smart Meters webpage.

6. I just moved to Erie. Do I have a Smart Meter?

Welcome to Erie! Smart Meters are automatically installed in new builds after 2016. Standard meters installed before 2016 are being updated by the Town to Smart Meters. In 2020, more than 80% of the Town’s meters are smart! By 2026, the Town hopes to have 100% of meters replaced to Smart Meters.

The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals.
Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

7. Upgraded my sprinklers - how soon can I see the difference?

Congratulations on becoming a water conscious waterer ! Not only are you reducing water waste, but you’re likely to see other benefits as well!

Have you created an EyesOnWater account and downloaded the app? Your Smart Meter can inform results of your water conservation efforts within 24 hours!

Get started on the Smart Meters webpage.

The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals.
Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

8. How can I reduce my water usage?

So glad you asked! The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals. Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

9. Is cyber security a concern with my Smart Meter?: From physical restrictions, to layered security approaches, to unique identities, multiple levels of cyber security protect Smart Meters, Erie customers’ data, and our energy grid. The system is continuously monitored to safeguard against potential threats.

10. Xeriscaped my yard recently - is my water usage down?

Congratulations on becoming a water conscious neighbor! Not only are you reducing water waste, but you’re likely to see other benefits as well!

Have you created an EyesOnWater account and downloaded the app? Your Smart Meter can inform results of your water conservation efforts within 24 hours!

Get started on the Smart Meters webpage.

The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals.
Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

11. I was one of the first houses in my subdivision, but I see my neighbor, who moved in after me, got a Smart Meter. Why?

Your meter might have been previously already replaced since you moved in and therefore scheduled for a different replacement year than your neighbors. Meters are generally replaced on a 10-year cycle.

The Town of Erie makes a concerted effort to provide resources to residents and businesses to help achieve water conservation goals.
Check out the water efficiency programs such as:

Rebates for water efficient fixtures or appliances
Sprinkler Consultations
Discounts on xeriscape Gardens in a Box
Irrigation Maintenance Tips

.... and more on the Water Conservation webpage.

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Snow Removal

Show All Answers

1. What are the major factors affecting snow removal?

Duration of the snow event
Accumulation during the snow event
Time of day the snow event starts
Temperature through-out the snow event
Traffic conditions

The most dangerous street conditions may occur when the day has been warm enough to melt snow and ice and then the temperature drops in the afternoon refreezing the melted snow and ice.

2. Do you plow cul-de-sacs?: Cul-de-sac areas are particularly hard to service due to the size of our snowplows. If snow accumulation and weather conditions dictate, the Town may plow these areas with smaller trucks.

3. Do you plow residential streets?

Residential streets may be plowed if snow accumulation and weather conditions dictate. When snowstorms leave large accumulations that are expected to remain for several days, plows may move in to residential streets after completing service on primary and secondary streets.

When plowing residential streets the goal is to keep as much snow as possible off the road. We do not plow down to the pavement. The quickest way to plow snow is to push it to the side. This may mean that you will have to clear your driveway.

4. When will you get to the secondary routes?: Snow accumulation and weather conditions dictate when snow crews can begin to plow secondary routes, all primary routes open must be cleared prior to moving onto secondary.

5. Why did you bury my sidewalk and/or driveway?: Snow crews do make an effort to plow in a manner that does not block driveways, it is not always successful. Residential streets are plowed down the center of the street in an effort to avoid covering sidewalks, parked cars, and blocking driveways, the Town regrets the inconvenience to residents that snowplowing operations may cause.

6. What equipment does the Town have?

The Town uses large plow trucks for snow removal and light weight pickup trucks are used during heavy snow fall to assist in accessing residential streets. The Town also has heavy equipment that can be used for cutting ice in trouble areas and clearing specific intersections.

The Town also contracts with local snow removal vendors for assistance during large storms.

7. How are the plowing crews called out?: Snow crews are called in for a snow event by Operation and Maintenance Crew Leader who is notified via the Boulder County Communications Center. Crews report within 30 minutes and plow trucks start plow routs immediately.
There are approximately 250 single lane miles of streets in Erie. Snow crews work in rotating shifts until the snow event has ended. It can take crews up to two hours to initially cover their assigned route.

8. How Can You Help?

Please keep in mind; crews put forth the utmost effort during snowstorms. Extended storms may present various challenges for our crews, for example, equipment breakdowns and abrupt changes in the weather.

To help our crews perform in a safe and efficient manner:

Exercise extreme care
Travel at a safe distance from snowplows at all times
Do not try to pass snow removal vehicles
Avoid street parking if possible
Do not shovel snow from your sidewalk and drive-way into the street
Do not attempt to stop a snow removal vehicle or obstruct its path

Thank You for Your Cooperation and Consideration

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Tails and Ales

Show All Answers

1. What does the parking situation look like?: Parking will be available in the open space lot located east of the venue at The Boneyard at Reliance Park (900 Weld County Road 1.5). Directional signs and staff will be on-site to direct you. We encourage participants to bike and walk into the event.

2. What about handicap parking?: We will have a reserved area for handicap parking in the main lot.

3. Will there be drinks available?: Of course! There will be a variety of domestic and craft beers available for purchase to attendees 21 and older.

4. Will there be food available?: YES! We will have Lola's Kitchen and Eats & Sweets in attendance. Be sure to come with an empty stomach.

5. Hold up... what about entertainment?: Live music will be provided by Chris Daniels & The Kings. Kick back, enjoy some food/beverages, and hang out with all of the dogs!

6. Is there seating to watch the entertainment?: We encourage all participants to bring their own chairs, as it is open seating.

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Town Clerk

Show All Answers

1. How do I request Public Records?: Follow the link to the Request for Records Form. Complete the form and email, mail or bring the completed form to the Town Clerk's Office and pay the appropriate fees.

2. How do I check my voters registration status?: View either the Boulder County Election Office website or the Weld County Election Office website and follow the directions specified on these sites.

3. How do I apply for a voluntary board or commission position?: Please visit the Boards and Commission webpage to view vacancies and apply.

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Turf Replacement Program

Show All Answers

1. Is artificial turf allowed to be installed at my residence in the Town of Erie?

Good question - artificial turf is allowed in the front yard, but it cannot be used as a means to comply with the landscape regulations. It is also allowed in the back and side yards so long as it makes up no more than 50% of the total square footage of area. However, it is not eligible for the turf replacement rebate. This is the current code as it is written:

UDC 10.6.4.E.

2. Single-family and Duplex Dwelling Units
In addition to the right-of-way landscaping described in Section 10-6-4.E.1, the property owner shall:

Provide permanent landscaping in the front yard of each home. There shall be a minimum of 75 percent of the gross front yard area, excluding driveways, landscaped with live plant materials. Mature tree and shrub canopies may count toward the 75 percent requirement.
Install landscaping within the side and rear yard such that 50 percent of the combined (side and rear) yards is landscaped with live plant material.
Maintain the landscaping within the adjacent street right-of-way.

UDC 10.6.4.F.

5. Artificial Materials Prohibited
Artificial plants, artificial grasses, and other artificial plant material are prohibited as a means of complying with these landscaping regulations. However, they may be used for athletic fields and similar uses as approved by the Town, but shall not be used in any manner to satisfy the requirements of these landscape regulations.

2. Can you plan a turf replacement project if you live in an HOA?

All turf replacement projects require a full design submittal. One of the steps of a design submittal for this program is HOA approval if it is applicable. We encourage all interested homeowners to check in with your HOA about major changes to landscaping.

Senate Bill (SB) 13-183 is a state bill that requires HOA's to allow xeric landscaping as long as the landscaping follows the laws put forth in your municipalities Unified Development Code. A link to the Town of Erie UDC can be found here.

3. Is there a limit to how many Garden's In A Box you can buy with a discount?

There is no limit to how many gardens you can purchase with the discount. After you've put as many gardens as you would like to purchase in the cart on the Resource Central website, the discount will be applied at the time of purchase.

NOTE: The $25 discount will be applied to the full purchase price, not to each individual garden in the online cart.

4. Do Garden's In a Box and Turf Replacement projects meet the requirements of the municipal code?

If you just plan to add Garden In a Box contents to your existing landscape in a flower box or something similar, then yes, this meets the requirements of the Town without any additional process.

If you are going to undergo a Turf Replacement project you will need to go through the approval process outlined in the design submittal process. Your project will need to fit the parameters set forth in the Town's Unified Development Code. Also, for further information on Xeriscaping (low-water use landscaping) you can visit the Town's website here for more resources.

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Utility Billing

Show All Answers

1. Is there a penalty for late payment?

Yes. The Town of Erie adds a fee to utility bills for delinquent payment.

All customers are given a single-day grace period after their due date to pay their bill. After that day, a fee that is 1% of the unpaid billing amount is added to the account.

Late Payment Penalties

All customers are given a single-day grace period after their due date to pay their bill. After that day, a fee that is 1% of the unpaid billing amount is added to the customer account.

Fee Scenario

Let's assume your bill for the month of March was $100 and you did not pay that amount. A 1% fee (or $1) would be added to your account. For the month of April, your bill is $100 again, but now your customer account will reflect an unpaid balance of $201 - covering the month you didn't pay, the current month, and the 1% fee.

Water Shut-Off Procedures

Customers are given one full month to make payment after the due date on their bill. If payment is not made in that month (or a payment plan is not created with the Utility Billing Division), their water service will be disconnected.

Let's use the scenario above: your utility bill was due on Friday, March 24 and you did not pay the bill. A doorhanger would be posted at your residence on the Tuesday a month later - in this case, on Tuesday, April 26. If the required amount isn't paid in full (or a payment plan isn't created) by 10 a.m. on Thursday - our team will begin shut-off procedures on Thursday starting just after 10 a.m.

A total fee of $40 is also added to any account that requires disconnection and reconnection.

Once the necessary payment is made, customers can call to have their water service re-connected again ASAP. Disconnection and reconnection teams work weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding Town-observed holidays.

2. How is my utility bill calculated?

Your monthly utility bill has three components for water, wastewater, and storm drainage services.

Customers are charged for water service through a fixed service charge and a tiered volume charge. The fixed service charge covers billing costs and customer costs such as field service crews, meter replacement, and repair. The tiered volume charge recovers the cost to collect, treat, and distribute water, as well as fire protection. Water is charged on an actual basis and typically fluctuates each month.

Customers are charged for wastewater service through a fixed service charge determined by your average winter usage for December, January, and February. We do this because typically, all water used is used indoors in these months, so it is a reasonable estimation of your wastewater service needs. Wastewater charges are consistent month-to-month after being updated annually.

Customers are charged for stormwater drainage through a fixed monthly charge.

3. How does the Town supply our community with water?: The Town of Erie is committed to providing our more than 30,000 water customers with safe, reliable, high-quality water services essential to everyday life. The Town’s primary water source is the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, which originates on the western slope. Other sources include water stored in Windy Gap and Gross Reservoirs. In emergencies, we have access to Lafayette Water and Lefthand Water.

4. How does the cost of Erie’s water compare to our neighbors?

Diverting water from the western slope to the Front Range is a very lengthy, complex, and expensive process. Water is governed in Colorado by the Prior Appropriation Doctrine – or as it’s known in shorthand, “first in time, first in right.” Older cities typically hold senior water rights and younger cities typically have junior rights; Erie is among the latter group, which means our raw water costs are often higher than some of our neighbors.

But youth has its advantages too. For instance, in Colorado and nationwide, many utilities are grappling with funding the expensive prospect of replacing aging infrastructure. Fortunately, as Erie is a younger community, our water customers enjoy the benefits of our modern, efficient infrastructure.

5. How do I read my utility bill?

Summary of Responsible Parties' Information
In the upper right of the Utility Bill is the summary of responsible parties’ information; bill due dates, bill amount, and how the bill is set to be paid. (It will only say Paid By Draft if that is set up).

Customer Account Information
Across the top are the responsible parties' name, address, and account number:

Current Billing Period
The next row is the information for the current billing period. Going from left to right; view the:

Service status: in this example it says active – water is actively being supplied to this location.
Service dates The town bills water service on a monthly schedule; in this case the range is the 4th of December to the 4th of January, a total of 31 days in this case.
Bill date: This is the date that the bill was generated by the Town of Erie The Penalty Date: This is the date after which a penalty fee will be assessed
Due date: This is the date on which the payment must have been received by the Town to avoid any penalty.

Meter Readings and Volume
Moving down a row (and left to right) is the:

Current meter reading
Previous month’s reading
Normalized volume used in this billing period
Meter Readings: In the example below, the January reading of 472,662 gallons and the December reading of 468,635 gallons, and a billed usage of 4,000 gallons. Even though the math comes out to just over 4,000 gallons, the town rounds to 4,000. The rounding rules are pretty simple: The threshold is 500 gallons: anything less than 499 rounds down to the nearest thousand, and anything more than 500 rounds up to the nearest thousand.

Charges

Summary of charges: This central section covers the breakdown of charges. Starting at the top, we see last month’s bill for $76.60 and the credit of ($76.60) showing that it was paid on time with no adjustments or penalties; with no past-due amount.
Base water charge: In the example, the charge of $19.36 is determined based on the size of the water-line going into your house.
Water usage tier 1: In the example, the charge of $22.12 is the 4000 gallons used at the $5.53 per 1,000 gallons for this tier 1 use. Remember, the usage tiers are called out at the bottom of the bill. The cost is $5.53 per 1000 gallons used. So at 4000 gallons, this charge comes to $22.12 or $5.53x4.
Storm drainage usage: This charge of $11.98 is a base fee for all residential accounts.
Sewer Base Charge: This charge of $10.30 is a base fee for all users.Sewer Usage Charge: This charge of $28.35 is based on the volume of water used.
Bar graph: In the example, the bar graph depicts 9 months of water volume use for this service address from May through January. This address used just under 10,000 gallons in May and over 30,000 gallons in August.
Tiers:
Tier 1 use is 0 through 5,000 gallons at $5.53 per gallon
Tier 2 use is 5,001 through 15,000 gallons at $6.92 per gallon
Tier 3 use is 15,001 through 25,000 gallons at $10.35 per gallon
Tier 4 use is over 25,001 gallons at $15.49 per gallon
If John Doe had used 7000 gallons of water, his usage charge would be $41.49:
Tier 1, $5.53 x 5 = $27.65
Tier 2, $6.92 x 2 = $13.84
Single-family and Townhomes: Water monthly charge per 1,000 gallons:

6. What does my utility bill cover?: Your utility bill includes charges for water, wastewater, and stormwater drainage services. The rates you pay on your utility bill cover the costs to provide these services to you. These services are paid for by the revenue generated from utility billing, and these utilities receive no funding from taxes.

7. How are utility rates determined?

The Town of Erie financial policies require a formal rate study be performed on the utility fund (water, wastewater, and storm drainage) charges at least every five years. This is an industry best practice to ensure costs are recovered equitably from customer payments.

The most recent study was completed by Raftelis, a nationally recognized independent financial consultant specializing in rate and fee studies for water provider clients across the country. They recommended changes to rates and charges for water and wastewater, with no changes to stormwater drainage charges.

After review, the Board of Trustees then voted to establish the new rates and charges effective in 2021. The changes are revenue-neutral, meaning that the utility fund is anticipated to receive the same amount of revenue in 2021 as it did in 2020. Still, the changes do reflect a focus on the following:

Providing customers more opportunity to manage water use and their bills
Emphasizing affordability by reducing the monthly service charge
Encouraging conservation and rewarding customers who use less water by increasing the volumetric rate

The Town is changing how we charge for water and wastewater service in 2021 to provide affordable, high quality, reliable service that rewards water efficiency. Did you know the cost of water and wastewater services are paid entirely by the rates you pay, not by taxes? Additionally, the Town can use the revenue from water and wastewater rates only for those services; in this way, the Town’s utilities operate as financially distinct “Enterprise” services. To make sure we are consistent with the enterprise approach, the Town, through a nationally-recognized independent consultant, recently reviewed how we charge for these services. Based on this review, we are adjusting rates into a new structure that balances these priorities: affordability, conservation, revenue stability, and equity.

Under the new rates, higher users pay more and lower users to pay less because the rates more closely reflect the actual costs of service. In the new design, about 60 percent of customers will pay less than they do today, and 17 percent will see an increase of less than $50 a year. Learn more about the rates and the Town’s water conservation programs at www.erie.co.gov/waterrates.

With input from the Board of Trustees and Town staff, Raftelis designed a rate structure that balances these Town priorities:
Town Priorities Graphic

8. How does the rate structure encourage water efficiency?

Water is a precious and limited resource in Colorado, and most utilities along the Front Range use tiered rates. Tiered water rates reward customers who use less water by charging the least amount per thousand gallons for use in the first tier, and increasingly more as customers use more water and graduate into higher levels.

The lowest rate tier corresponds to an amount of water sufficient to meet essential indoor household needs. Each subsequent tier charges a higher rate and is designed to send a price signal to households when using water for outdoor irrigation.

9. How do we ensure that we don’t subsidize new and future neighbors who tie-in to the system?

Tap fees and raw water dedication fees ensure costs that growth incurs on our water, wastewater, and stormwater systems are fully recovered. Often paid by the developer – and passed along to the new homeowner in the purchase price – these are one-time fees charged by the Town at the permitting stage.

In 2021, a 3/4 inch tap fee will increase from $5,200 to $8,860. The raw water dedication fee will increase from $15,300 to $16,243.

10. Are there any changes to how wastewater is charged?: Yes. Monthly service charges are being reduced from $15.68 today to $10.30 in 2021. Volume rates – calculated in thousand-gallon increments based on how much water is used – will increase from $8.20 to $9.45.

11. We want to do more to conserve – can the Town help?

The Town offers a number of free or discounted conservation programs that help customers use water wisely. Customers that participate in the Town’s free irrigation consultations save at least 20% on their annual water bill on average. Learn more about these programs on the water conservation webpage.

Here are a few ways to reduce water usage and associated bill increases:

Indoor water usage: Discover Erie’s water efficiency rebates
Outdoor water usage: Signup for a sprinkler/irrigation consultation
Consider xeriscape options, and discounted Garden in a Box starter kits

Erie encourages xeriscape. Additionally, in March 2019, Colorado HB19-1050 was updated to encourage the use of xeriscape. The bill amended sections of the Colorado Revised Statutes prohibiting restrictive covenants, rules, or regulations (ie. HOAs) that limit the installation or use of drought-tolerant vegetative landscapes and deems those covenants, rules, or regulations as contrary to public policy. Associations may adopt and enforce design, and aesthetic guidelines or rules, regulate the type, number, and placement of drought-tolerant plantings.

12. Are there any other ways the Town is helping customers have greater visibility on water use?

We are! Since 2016, the Town has been replacing residential water meters with Smart Meters that conform to all industry standards. Once installed, your new Smart Meter will give you access to your water consumption data, providing an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of and control over the water you consume on a daily, monthly, and annual basis.

The EyesOnWater customer portal stores all of your water usage in one place. View your history, discover your water trends, detect leaks, and personalize a water savings plan. Today, more than 60 percent of Erie’s meters are Smart Meters. Learn more about the EyeOnWater tool on the Smart Meter webpage.

13. When do you read the water meters?

Water meters report usage. The Town collects the usage on a rotating basis throughout the month according to the cycle billing schedule. Since 2016, the Town has been replacing residential water meters with Smart Meters that conform to all industry standards set by the American Water Works Association. Once installed, your new Smart Meter will give you access to your water consumption data, and gain a greater understanding and control of the water you consume on a daily, monthly and annual basis. The EyesOnWater customer portal stores all of your water usage in one place. View your history, discover your water trends, detect leaks, and personalize a water savings plan. Today, more than 60 percent of Erie’s meters are Smart Meters. Learn more about the EyeOnWater tool on the Smart Meter webpage.

For more information regarding cycle billing, please click here.

14. I’m struggling to pay my water bill – are there resources to help?

Customers may contact the Town’s Utility Billing team to learn more about case-by-case payment arrangements for those having difficulty paying their bills.

Also, part of the Town’s commitment to affordability is working with customers to investigate possible causes of high water usage. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to our team anytime via email at contactus@erieco.gov, by phone at 303-926-2700, or online via ErieSubmit.

Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program
The Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) received $15 Million in federal funding for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) to assist low-income households with their overdue water and wastewater bills.

The Town of Erie highly encourages residents struggling to pay their utilities to apply for this program. Funds are extremely limited and are distributed on a first come, first serve basis. To qualify for this assistance, the household must: Apply and been approved for LEAP during November 1, 2021 - April 30, 2022. Complete the addendum within the LEAP application and submit a copy of your overdue utilities bill. Services must be disconnected, facing disconnection, or have a past due amount on the bill. Apply here.

15. What kind of payments do you accept?

We currently have a number of payment options available and accept cash, check, money orders and/or credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express).

Online Payments and Credit Card AutoPay: To make your payment online or set up credit card autopay, please log into your account here. Detailed instructions for setting up credit card autopay can be found here.

Automatic Payments Using a Checking Account (ACH): Please fill out the ACH Authorization form and either drop it off, mail it back, or email it to utilitybilling@erieco.gov. More information regarding ACH payments can be viewed here.

Mail or Drop Off: Please enclose the bill stub or write the service address on the check. Payments can be mailed to the Town of Erie, Finance Department, PO Box 750, Erie, CO 80516. Payments can also be dropped off at the Town Hall receptionist/cashier desk or in the black drop box at the front of the Town Hall. The Town Hall is located at 645 Holbrook Street.

16. When do you send out the bills?: We send out bills on a rotating basis throughout the month according to the cycle billing schedule. Bills are mailed approximately 1 week after the read date for each cycle. For more information regarding cycle billing, please click here.

17. When is my bill due?: Bills are due 1 day prior to the next read date for your cycle. For more information regarding the scheduled read dates, please click here.

18. How is the drinking water quality?

The Town of Erie provides a high-quality supply of available drinking water to over 10,350 residential and commercial customers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We continue to meet increasingly high water quality standards in a cost-effective manner for the citizens of Erie. We are proud that Erie meets and exceeds all federal and state drinking water standards. We do this while protecting the environment, community, and economic interests that we all value.

Read more about Erie’s water quality in the Consumer Confidence Report.

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WCR 5

Show All Answers

1. Why don’t you complete the work while leaving a single lane open in both directions?

We considered this option as a way to maintain traffic flow through WCR 5 during the work. After much discussion with the contractor, EPD, and the school districts we found that this option was not the best choice for two main reasons:

Safety: The major equipment needed for this construction, paired with high traffic during school hours, and the number of pedestrians (construction workers and students/parents/teachers) created a hazardous situation. Fully closing the road to all traffic in phases actually creates a much safer construction zone, limiting the number of interactions between the general public and construction equipment/work.
Timing: If we did the project while leaving open lanes, it would essentially extend the timeline for the project by another three to four months. Contending with commuting hours and less overall workspace would slow the progress down enough to substantially lengthen the time the road is under construction.

2. Why didn’t you wait to start this project until the summer, after school?

This project timeline is already condensed at tightly as it could feasibly be while still giving allowances for possible weather or supply delays. There is logistically no way the project could be completed during the summer break.

This means our project team, along with SVVSD, and EPD discussed the best possible timing to either coincide with the end of a school year, or the beginning of the next. Based on the most efficient phasing of the project, it made the most sense and caused the least negative impacts to begin the project begore the end of the school year.

3. Who can I contact if I have a question or concern with this project?

There are two main contacts to consider based on your specific issue:

If you have questions about the elements of the planned project (bicycle lanes, sidewalks, streetlight, etc.) please contact Town staff at construction@erieco.gov.
If you have questions or concerns about the work happening on the ground (detour signs, noise, construction equipment, etc.) please contact the contractor, John Murnan, at jmurnan@ihcscott.com or 720-490-7417.

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Xeriscaping

Show All Answers

1. Can my HOA stop me from Xeriscaping my yard?: Your HOA must allow its residents to use Xeric landscaping. C.R.S. (§ 37-60-126, et seq.) states that HOA’s are prohibited from creating restricting covenants that forbid xeriscape or drought tolerant vegetation or require ground covering consisting of only turf. You must still follow the town laws put forward in the Unified Development Code (UDC), so you can’t cover your entire lawn with rock or concrete.

2. How much water will I save by implementing Xeric landscaping?: Estimating the water savings associated with xeriscaping can be a bit complicated because of the wide variety of options and projects. Some studies have shown that xeriscaping can save households 120 gallons of water/day.

3. Can my Xeriscape be a DIY job?: Yes. If the project encompasses any part of a public right of way, you will need to acquire a right of way permit.

4. DIY vs. hiring the job out?

DIY projects cost around $2/sq foot of area converted and require a lot of labor.
Professional projects cost an average of $5/sqft but can be completed in a short period of time by a crew.

5. Will I have to install a new irrigation system?: As with any new landscaping, you will need to change the way its watered. You can water by hand, or change up your existing irrigation system to fit the needs of the new plants.

6. What kinds of plants should I be planting? Does the Town of Erie recommend specific plants?

Colorado State University has a great resource available to help with deciding on strategies for planting your xeric landscape. You can find guides to perennial and annual flowers as well as trees and shrubs.
The Town does not have any specific plants or designs that it recommends.

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