End Economic Discrimination Against Historic Communities
Boulder County's minimum wage policy discriminates against 20+ unincorporated communities. While all incorporated towns refused to participate, our historic communities had no choice.
Boulder County created a discriminatory two-tier system that threatens 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 must pay $16.57/hour minimum wage while competitors just miles away in Louisville, Lafayette, and Longmont pay only $14.92/hour (Colorado state minimum).
| Year | Boulder County (Unincorporated) |
Colorado State (Competitors) |
Unfair 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 discriminatory 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.
At Risk: Forced to choose between automation, reduced workforce, or unsustainable labor costs that threaten farm viability
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.
At Risk: 2 restaurants already closed, grocery store struggling with labor costs
A historic mining town with businesses serving both locals and tourists. The General Store and Inn are essential gathering places for this mountain community.
At Risk: Tourism businesses can't compete with Front Range wage costs
Historic resort community known for its natural springs and outdoor recreation. Local businesses serve both residents and visitors to this unique destination.
At Risk: Seasonal businesses facing unsustainable labor cost increases
Agricultural community where local farms and related businesses form the economic foundation. Part of Boulder County's agricultural heritage.
At Risk: Farm operations and agricultural support businesses struggling
Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, this mountain community serves both year-round residents and outdoor recreation visitors.
At Risk: Tourism and hospitality businesses facing unsustainable labor cost increases
The damage is already happening county-wide, and it's accelerating every year
Communities facing discrimination
Higher wages than competitors by 2030
Business decline in Niwot alone
Organic farms threatened by wage disparity
Chambers of commerce, agricultural organizations, community groups, and residents across Boulder County are joining together
Boulder Chamber, Longmont Chamber, and Northwest Chamber Alliance supporting equal treatment for all businesses
Coalition of Organic Farmers (COFA) and local farms fighting for agricultural community survival. Boulder County's organic farms operate on thin margins and seasonal labor - the wage disparity threatens food security and sustainable agriculture across the region.
Business associations and community groups preserving the character of Boulder County's unique places
Customers, families, and community members who value local businesses and economic fairness
Equal 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 equal treatment, not opposing fair wages.
Tell Boulder County Commissioners to end economic discrimination and create equal treatment for all communities
Privacy: Your information is used only for this campaign and will not be shared with third parties.
Every voice matters in this fight for equality. Here are ways to make a difference:
Send a direct message about ending economic discrimination against our communities.
Email All ThreeJoin other community members at Commissioner meetings to show visible support for equal treatment.
Meeting InfoHelp raise awareness on social media and with neighbors about this discrimination.
Connect with chambers, business associations, and community groups fighting this discrimination.
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 make the difference.
District 1 - Eastern Boulder County
Former State Representative with legal background and policy expertise
Email: clevy@bouldercounty.org
Phone: 303-441-3520
District 2 - Northern Boulder County
First Latina Commissioner, background in real estate and community organizing
Email: mloachamin@bouldercounty.org
Phone: 303-441-3520
District 3 - Western Boulder County
Former Louisville Mayor with extensive local government experience
Email: astolzmann@bouldercounty.org
Phone: 303-441-3520
Review the research, editorial support, and official documents that support our position
Common Sense Institute provides independent economic analysis on weighing minimum wage increases across Boulder County and their impacts on small businesses.
Read ResearchThe Daily Camera Editorial Board supports our efforts. Read their editorial opinion on the minimum wage disparity issue affecting unincorporated Boulder County.
Read EditorialRead the official resolution from the Niwot Local Improvement District (NLID) to Boulder County Commissioners regarding additional minimum wage increases.
Read LetterLocal farmers and businesses unite regarding minimum wage challenges. Read about the agricultural perspective and coalition efforts in this Left Hand Valley Courier article.
Read Article