Look hard at state, local ballot items

Statewide and local ballot issues pose significant business implications when Northern Colorado voters go to the polls on Nov. 2.
Following is summary of those issues, and how The Northern Colorado Business Report stands on each proposal:
? Amendment 34 (construction liability)
State law allows homebuilders to work with property owners to resolve complaints over shoddy building.
The law also keeps property owners from collecting triple damages in the courts, a fact that reins in liability insurance rates for the development industry.
Amendment 34 would wipe out the state law and lift the restrictions on court damages. It also exposes home sellers to legal action if the buyer discovers flaws linked to previous home repairs.
Business Report: Vote no.
? Amendment 35 (tobacco tax increase)
This proposal would raise tobacco taxes by 64 cents per pack of cigarettes. Proceeds – about $175 million a year – would be used for struggling state health programs, including coverage for indigent care.
The goal is worthy. The method isn’t. The infamous Amendment 23 shows what happens when spending is written into the state constitution.
Business Report: Vote no.
? Amendment 37 (renewable resources)
Amendment 37 would require the state’s largest utilities to generate or purchase up to 10 percent of their power from renewable sources by 2015.
What’s not to like? We’ll tell you.
The law would cap rate hikes on residential billpayers, potentially leaving businesses with the burden of the costs of wind, solar and other sources.
Business Report: Vote no.
? Larimer County Referred 1A (five county commissioners)
Larimer County’s population growth has made the task of governing much more complex and demanding on the current body of three county commissioners. The county’s many layers of constituencies call for better representation and public access that comes with five commissioners.
The downside – an extra $251,000 in annual costs to fund two more commissioners – is worth $1 more per citizen.
Business Report: Vote yes
? Greeley Ballot Issue 2A (police headquarters)
Greeley city officials are asking voters to raise sales taxes by $2.1 million per year for 20 years to upgrade police department facilities, including the construction – or purchase – of a new headquarters building.
There is some controversy surrounding the site of a new headquarters. Some city council members favor acquisition and renovation of the old Kmart building on West 10th Street. We prefer downtown. But a vote for the tax is not necessarily a vote for the location.
Business Report: Vote yes.

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