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Untitled Alexis Kenyon
Colorado Homeowners Insurance Surges 60% in Five Years
Colorado now has some of the highest home insurance rates in the U.S., with premiums increasing nearly 60% over the past five years. This surge is largely attributed to extreme weather, hailstorms, wildfires, and something called “social inflation.” Social inflation refers to the rising costs of lawsuits and larger payouts, which contribute to higher policy prices. Currently, Colorado ranks eighth nationally for homeowners insurance rates, with the average premium hovering around $3,200 annually.
Experts warn that insurance companies may reassess wildfire risks, potentially leading to even higher costs or limited coverage options. To address these concerns, the state has introduced a FAIR plan for high-risk areas, but according to The Colorado Sun, rising costs are likely to continue.
Colorado Short-Term Rental Industry Braces for New Regulations
Colorado’s short-term rental industry is preparing for potential new legislation after House Speaker Julie McCluskie indicated that new regulations are “highly likely” in the next legislative session. Following years of proposed regulations and tax increases, the industry is organizing to lobby lawmakers and emphasize the significant economic value that short-term rentals contribute to the state’s tourism sector.
Earlier this year, short-term rental advocates successfully opposed Senate Bill 33, which would have drastically increased property taxes on vacation rentals. Now, the industry is pushing for a balanced approach that addresses housing challenges without stifling tourism. Short-term rentals generated $4.1 billion in revenue in Colorado in 2023.
Property owners are also preparing for potential battles over local measures, including a proposed vacancy tax and increases in lodging taxes. With tourism showing signs of slowing in 2024, advocates warn that overregulation could harm both Colorado’s economy and housing solutions.
Colorado’s Wolf Relocation Plan Sparks Controversy
Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s plan to trap and relocate a wolf pack in Grand County following livestock attacks is stirring controversy among wildlife groups. Opponents argue that the relocation, driven by political motives, could be fatal to the pack’s pups, as relocating young wolves often leads to abandonment. They point to failed efforts in Montana, where most relocated wolves either died or continued attacking livestock.
Despite these concerns, Colorado intends to release more wolves by 2025, though challenges remain in sourcing new animals. The ongoing tensions between conservation efforts and livestock protection are shaping the state’s approach to wolf reintroduction.
Boulder City Council Member Tara Winer Attacked
Boulder City Council member Tara Winer was attacked on Friday evening after confronting a man who was shouting racial slurs during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the University Hill neighborhood. The attacker, 26-year-old Chase Raskin, punched Winer in the face, knocking her to the ground. Boulder Chamber ambassador Matthew Jensen and two security guards restrained Raskin until the police arrived and arrested him on charges of felony menacing and third-degree assault.
Winer, who suffered from a headache and rib pain, plans to press charges. She remains committed to standing up against racism, particularly in support of the Asian community. She also expressed gratitude to those who stepped in to assist her during the attack.
Denver Revives LoDo Food Truck Ban to Fight Crime
Denver is reinstating its controversial food truck ban in Lower Downtown (LoDo) on weekend nights, in an effort to reduce crowds and combat crime in the popular bar district. Despite a drop in violent crime since the ban’s first implementation in 2022, food trucks will be prohibited from operating on key blocks of Blake, Market, and Larimer streets from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. on weekends.
Mayor Mike Johnston and law enforcement officials support the move as part of a broader strategy to address crime in LoDo, which also includes increasing police presence and modifying rideshare service operations. However, food truck operators and local businesses oppose the ban, arguing that it unfairly targets them while limiting late-night food options. Critics also warn that fewer food options could negatively impact public safety, as food helps intoxicated individuals sober up.
Denver Youth Receive Free Legal Representation for Municipal Violations
Beginning Thursday, minors aged 10 to 18 who are accused of municipal violations in Denver will receive free legal representation, thanks to a new law passed by the City Council. Previously, young people charged with crimes like theft or trespassing in municipal court were not offered public defenders, often leading to guilty pleas without fully understanding their legal options.
This unique program aims to address disparities by providing legal support, especially for minors from low-income families who cannot afford private attorneys. Advocates hope that the program will reduce the school-to-prison pipeline and prevent further legal and academic setbacks for young people.
Denver Gem Show Shines at National Western Stockyards
The Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show is in full swing at the National Western Stockyards, showcasing an impressive collection of rare gems, fossils, meteorites, and more. Hundreds of vendors, including paleontologists and gem enthusiasts, are displaying everything from dinosaur bones to brightly colored crystals.
Now in its 15th year, the show will run until September 15.
