Aurora Officials Consider Solutions to Address Budget Deficit

Aurora city officials are discussing various options to address an $11.5 million gap in the estimated 2026 budget. Proposed solutions include raising taxes, eliminating tax exemptions, and “de-Brucing” to increase revenue. The city is struggling to keep up with population growth and services. Councilmember Curtis Gardner expressed concerns about replacing taxes that had been repealed, while Danielle Jurinsky highlighted the need to address a larger deficit. The budget also includes funding for a fire station in the Southshore and Blackstone area, which Councilmember Francoise Bergan emphasized as crucial for public safety. The city’s lodging tax may also see an increase, and a proposal to eliminate revenue limits under TABOR on property tax may go to voters in November. Other suggestions include raising the sales tax and eliminating tax exemptions on certain items. Councilmember Alison Coombs supports the de-Brucing proposal, but urges caution in how the city approaches the budget shortfall to avoid overwhelming voters with too many tax questions. The discussions highlight the challenges many cities face in balancing budgets, maintaining services, and addressing growing financial pressures.