PAONIA, CO – The Town of Paonia Board of Trustees formally urges registered electors to vote “NO” on Ballot Question 2B in the upcoming April 1, 2025, municipal election to protect the community’s housing availability and ensure responsible short-term rental regulation.
Why Voting ‘NO’ on 2B Matters
The Board of Trustees adopted Ordinance 2024-05 after extensive community input, listening sessions, and data collection through the Housing Needs Assessment and Housing Action Plan. The ordinance was carefully crafted to address residents’ concerns over the impact of short-term rentals on housing availability and neighborhood integrity.
If Ballot Question 2B is rejected, the ordinance will remain in place, ensuring the following:
- Legalization and Regulation of Short-Term Rentals – Ordinance 2024-05 allows short-term rentals under clear regulations, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and zoning laws.
- Preservation of Housing for Residents – With growing pressure on local housing, regulations help balance property rights with the need for long-term rental availability for workforce and community members.
- Neighborhood Protection – The ordinance prevents unchecked commercialization of residential areas while still supporting tourism through controlled accommodations.
- Clear Property Rights and Compliance – The ordinance updates outdated language that previously prohibited rentals for fewer than 30 days but was not enforced, bringing clarity and consistency to the Town’s housing policies.
Background on the Referendum
Ordinance 2024-05 was introduced on November 12, 2024, and adopted on November 26, 2024, with revisions based on public feedback. A referendum petition to repeal the ordinance was filed on January 6, 2025, and deemed sufficient on January 8, 2025. As a result, the repeal question—Ballot Question 2B—was placed on the April 1, 2025, ballot for voters to decide.
What Happens If 2B Passes?
If voters approve Ballot Question 2B, Ordinance 2024-05 will be repealed, meaning that all short-term rentals would once again become illegal under existing Town code, eliminating legal avenues for responsible short-term rental operations.
The Board’s Stance – Vote ‘NO’ on 2B
The Board of Trustees strongly supports keeping Ordinance 2024-05 in effect to preserve balanced housing policies, promote responsible short-term rental operations, and prevent unintended consequences for property owners and renters alike.
Can I still Rent a Room on a Monthly or Longer Basis Without a License if 2B is Rejected?
YES! The current code under §16-11-20 – Home Occupations; and §16-11-30 – Renting of Rooms, allow for the renting of rooms on a monthly or longer basis without a license if you comply with other provisions of the Town’s code.
The Board urges all Paonia voters to participate in the election on April 1, 2025, and to vote NO on Ballot Question 2B to maintain fair and thoughtful short-term rental regulations in the community.
How Can the Board Take a Position on the Ballot Referendum?
Colorado state law allows an elected Board to pass a resolution taking a position of advocacy on any local ballot issue. Relevant statutes are: C.R.S. 1-45-117 (1) (b) (III) (A); and C.R.S. 31-11-111.
Trustee Vote on the Resolution
The Board of Trustees voted on the resolution as follows:
- Mayor Pro-Tempore Swartz: Aye
- Trustee Hunter: Aye
- Trustee Valentine: Aye
- Trustee Stelter: Aye
- Trustee Heck: Nay
- Trustee Czech: Nay
For more information, please visit https://townofpaonia.colorado.gov/news-article/short-term-rental-faqs or contact the Town at (970) 527-4101.