Aurora Voters to Decide on Issue 3B in November 2026

The ballot initiative proposes a 0.325% sales tax increase to fund 65 capital improvement projects across the city.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in City Hall

Aurora Voters to Decide on Issue 3B in November 2026

Live Poll

Is now a good time for your community to approve new sales taxes for public infrastructure?

Aurora voters will head to the polls in November 2026 to cast ballots on Issue 3B, a measure seeking authorization for $264 million in bonds. The proposal aims to finance infrastructure developments, including new fire stations and upgrades to police facilities.

Why it matters

City officials introduced the measure as a method to maintain and improve public safety infrastructure. The ballot language includes provisions for mass surveillance technology and funding for 911 facilities, which the Grassroots Leadership Council is urging residents to review.

Issue 3B proposes a 0.325% sales tax hike, amounting to a 3-cent increase on every $10 purchase. The plan earmarks $52 million specifically for the construction of new fire stations.

The players

City Council

The local governing body of Aurora responsible for authorizing bond oversight committees and setting policy.

Grassroots Leadership Council

A local organization that promotes civic engagement and provides resources for residents to research ballot measures.

The details

The bond funding is guided by the city master plan and will be monitored by a bond oversight committee authorized by the City Council. While the measure focuses on public safety facilities, the inclusion of broad ballot language regarding mass surveillance technology has drawn attention from local advocacy groups.

June 2026: City officials discussed bond funding during a council meeting.
October 19, 2026: The Grassroots Leadership Council held a voter education event.
November 2026: Aurora voters will cast ballots on Issue 3B.

Political Context

Opponents have voiced concerns regarding the ballot language's inclusion of phrasing such as including but not limited to. Critics argue this lack of specificity grants the city excessive leeway in project selection outside the scope of the city master plan.

If the tax increase is approved, residents will see an additional 3 cents added to every $10 spent on taxable goods. This measure will directly influence city infrastructure and public safety service capabilities for years to come.

The takeaway

Voters should carefully review the specific projects listed in the city master plan before casting their ballots in November. Understanding the bond oversight process is essential for residents to ensure that the $264 million investment aligns with their expectations for public safety.