Groups Finance Campaigns for Longmont Ballot Measures
Election reform groups and public safety unions are funding campaigns for four local ballot measures.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Nonprofits and public safety unions have funneled thousands of dollars into campaigns for local ballot measures in Longmont. These contributions aim to influence voters on key policies including ranked-choice voting and new public safety taxes.
Why it matters
The financing reveals significant interest from outside organizations in shaping Longmont municipal policy. These investments reflect broader efforts by advocacy groups and unions to influence local governance through targeted ballot measures.
The ranked choice voting campaign reported $96,885 in cash contributions and $39,448.82 in in-kind donations. Meanwhile, the public safety tax initiative, Issue 3A, aims to generate an estimated $19.5 million in revenue.
The players
Courageous Colorado Action
This organization is a Denver-based advocacy group focused on electoral reform and civic engagement.
FairVote Action
Based in Silver Spring, Maryland, this entity promotes ranked-choice voting and other electoral systems.
Longmont Professional Firefighters Association
This union represents local emergency responders and advocates for public safety labor and funding interests.
Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 6
This organization is a labor union representing police officers in the local area.
The details
Committees supporting election reform and public safety funding have documented their financial support in city reports. These funds include significant cash contributions from organizations such as Courageous Colorado Action and the Longmont Professional Firefighters Association.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: Campaign contributions from Courageous Colorado Action and the Firefighters Association were recorded.
October 5, 2026: FairVote Action contributed to the ranked-choice voting campaign.
October 7, 2026: Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 6 provided a contribution to the public safety tax campaign.
October 13, 2026: Courageous Colorado Action made a second contribution to the campaign.
November 3, 2026: Voters will decide on the four city ballot measures.
Market Landscape
The influx of organizational funding mirrors a larger national trend of increased spending on municipal ballot initiatives. This investment shifts the competitive environment by professionalizing local campaigns against traditional grassroots efforts.
Voters face potential tax changes if Issue 3A passes, including a 0.33% sales tax increase and a 2.44 mills property tax levy. Additionally, approval of Question 3C would fundamentally change how residents rank candidates in future local elections.
The takeaway
The heavy financial backing of these measures suggests that the outcome of this election could significantly alter the city's approach to both taxation and electoral processes. Residents should review the specific language of Question 3C and Issue 3A before heading to the polls.
What happens next
Voters will cast their ballots on the four city measures during the election on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about the influence of Philanthropy in local and municipal initiatives.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Boulder Daily Camera.
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