Weld property tax deadline delayed, penalties waived

GREELEY — Businesses in Weld County can avoid paying their property taxes without penalty as long as those taxes are paid by Oct. 1.

The tax-penalty waiver could apply to businesses throughout the state if county taxing authorities initiate it. The Weld County Board of Commissioners took that action after Gov. Jared Polis signed HB20-1421 into law on Sunday. Property taxes are normally due in two payments on Feb. 28 and June 15, or if taxpayers prefer, one payment by April 30.

The action follows Weld County lobbying that began in mid-March when the county began looking for ways to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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Deferral or suspension of penalties and interest on unpaid property taxes was seen as one way to improve business cash flow; businesses could use the unpaid property-tax money for operations and pay it later without penalty

“We worked with our treasurer and finance director to brainstorm ways local government could help keep businesses going through this difficult time,” Weld board chairman Mike Freeman said.

County commissioners had discussions with local municipalities and school districts. “We needed to make sure everyone was on board with the idea,” said Commissioner Barbara Kirkmeyer. “We talked through the pros and cons of the proposal and initiated discussions with school districts, other county treasurers and Federico Pena, head of the governor’s Economic Stabilization and Growth Council. The result was a bill that will help not only businesses in Weld County but also across the state of Colorado.”

The bill that passed permits counties to defer property tax payments and waive penalties. Other taxing authorities affected, such as school districts, can still get advances from the county on unpaid property taxes if necessary to meet bond payments and other obligations. 

“For some businesses, this bill may afford them the opportunity to pay staff or prioritize other expenses without the worry that fees and penalties are adding up on their property tax payment,” said commissioner Kevin Ross. “As a small business owner myself, I know that would be helpful given this state’s current circumstances.”