End Economic Unfairness
Boulder County's unfair policy creates challenges for 20+ unincorporated communities. While all incorporated towns refused to participate, our historic communities had no choice.
Boulder County created an unfair two-tier system that is devastating the character and viability of our historic communities
✅ ALL incorporated towns got to CHOOSE (and refused to participate)
❌ Historic unincorporated communities had NO CHOICE
This creates unfair competition based solely on arbitrary political boundaries, not economic merit
Our communities are being forced to pay $16.57/hour minimum wage while competitors just miles away in Louisville, Lafayette, and Longmont pay only $14.92/hour (Colorado state minimum). This is forcing businesses to close.
| Year | Boulder County (Unincorporated) |
Colorado State (Competitors) |
Devastating Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $16.57 | $14.92 | 11.1% higher |
| 2026 | $17.99 | ~$15.44 | 16.5% higher |
| 2027 | $19.53 | ~$15.98 | 22.2% higher |
| 2028 | $21.21 | ~$16.54 | 28.2% higher |
| 2030 | $25.00 | ~$17.72 | 41.1% HIGHER |
Over 20 unincorporated communities face unfair treatment that threatens their unique character and economic viability
Boulder County's organic farms provide fresh, local food while operating on razor-thin margins. These sustainable agriculture operations depend on seasonal labor and face direct competition from farms in neighboring counties with lower wage requirements.
Crisis Impact: Being forced to choose between automation, reduced workforce, or closing operations that have fed Boulder County for generations
Founded in 1875, Niwot's charm lies in its small-town atmosphere and local businesses. Home to the Niwot Market, family restaurants, and shops that have served the community for generations.
Crisis Impact: 2 restaurants already closed, grocery store struggling with labor costs, $5 million decline in business activity
A historic mining town with businesses serving both locals and visitors. The General Store and Inn are essential gathering places for this mountain community.
Challenge: Balancing tourism economics with local community needs
Historic resort community known for its natural springs and outdoor recreation. Local businesses serve both residents and visitors to this unique destination.
Challenge: Supporting seasonal businesses while ensuring year-round viability
Agricultural community where local farms and related businesses form the economic foundation. Part of Boulder County's agricultural heritage and food security network.
Challenge: Ensuring agricultural operations remain economically viable
Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, this mountain community serves both year-round residents and outdoor recreation visitors.
Challenge: Supporting both residents and sustainable tourism
The damage is already visible and accelerating every year
Communities facing unfair treatment
Higher wages than competitors by 2030
Business decline in Niwot alone
Organic farms will be forced to close
Chambers of commerce, agricultural organizations, community groups, and residents across Boulder County are joining together
Boulder Chamber, Longmont Chamber, and Northwest Chamber Alliance supporting sustainable implementation of progressive wage policies
Coalition of Organic Farmers (COFA) and local farms working to maintain local food systems. Boulder County's organic farms operate on sustainable margins and seasonal labor - bridging fair wages with food security across the region.
Business associations and community groups preserving the character of Boulder County's unique places while supporting worker wellbeing
Customers, families, and community members who value both fair wages and locally-owned businesses that strengthen communities
Fair treatment for all Boulder County communities. Allow unincorporated areas to follow Colorado state minimum wage, just like all incorporated towns chose to do.
Allow unincorporated areas to follow Colorado state minimum wage, just like incorporated towns chose to do.
This creates a level playing field while complying with state law requirements. All incorporated towns refused to participate - give unincorporated areas the same choice.
Colorado state minimum wage ($14.92/hour) is already 106% higher than federal minimum wage ($7.25/hour).
Workers get fair wages. Businesses get fair competition. Communities thrive. This is about fair treatment, not opposing fair wages.
Petitions don't change policy - direct emails to commissioners do. Send your message today and stay updated on the fight.
Get updates on commissioner responses, meeting dates, and opportunities to help.
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Every voice matters in this fight for equality. Here are ways to make a difference:
Send a message about supporting both fair wages and community sustainability.
Email All ThreeJoin other community members to show support for sustainable implementation.
Meeting InfoHelp raise awareness about sustainable community solutions.
Connect with chambers, business associations, and community groups supporting sustainability.
Get Involved"Create a level playing field. Allow unincorporated areas to follow state minimum wage like incorporated towns chose to do."
We support fair wages AND fair competition. The current policy creates winners and losers based on arbitrary boundaries, not economic merit.
Contact the decision-makers directly. Your voice can help complete the progressive vision.
District 1 - Eastern Boulder County
Former State Representative with legal background and progressive policy expertise
Email: clevy@bouldercounty.org
Phone: 303-441-3520
District 2 - Northern Boulder County
First Latina Commissioner, background in community organizing and equitable development
Email: mloachamin@bouldercounty.org
Phone: 303-441-3520
District 3 - Western Boulder County
Former Louisville Mayor with extensive local government and environmental experience
Email: astolzmann@bouldercounty.org
Phone: 303-441-3520
Review the research, editorial support, and official documents that support sustainable solutions
Common Sense Institute provides independent economic analysis on weighing minimum wage increases across Boulder County and their impacts on small businesses and communities.
Read ResearchThe Daily Camera Editorial Board supports sustainable approaches. Read their editorial opinion on bridging wage policy with community sustainability.
Read EditorialRead the official resolution from the Niwot Local Improvement District to Boulder County Commissioners regarding sustainable wage implementation.
Read LetterLocal farmers and businesses unite around sustainable solutions. Read about the agricultural perspective and coalition efforts in this Left Hand Valley Courier article.
Read Article