Colorado
has the best economy in the country, but despite record corporate profits and
tourism revenue, one in four roads are rated as being in poor condition and
almost 500 bridges have been labeled “structurally deficient.” Colorado ranks
as one of the worst states in road conditions and urban congestion, adding up
to more than $500 per year, per person, in car repairs.
How are we the best economy with some of the
most woefully inadequate roads and bridges? It started almost 30 years ago when
voters narrowly approved what were — and still are — the most restrictive state
spending limits in the country. When our economy shrinks, like other states, we
reduce spending. But unlike other states, when our economy rebounds, we can’t
invest the funds we already collect, instead delivering that money in the form
of a small rebate to individual Coloradans.
These
rebates are projected to average $27-$44 per person next year. Proposition CC
is asking voters to pool these funds next year to the tune of $264 million for
the state and likely more in years to follow. With one vote, we can untangle an
outdated budget rule and invest the money the state already collects equally
among transportation, K-12 education and higher education. That’s $88 million
just next year, just for transportation.
Nobody’s
taxes will go up under Proposition CC. These are taxes that already have been
paid. This ballot measure won’t fix all of our roads, tunnels and bridges or
eliminate Colorado’s education inequities, but it’s a big step forward.
With
a yes vote on Proposition CC, with no new taxes, we can start fixing our
bridges and roads.