Larimer County Launches Voter-approved Childcare Tax With New Partner
The Board of Larimer County Commissioners executed an agreement with Northern Colorado Kids Thrive on Feb. 10 to begin spending a voter-approved 0.25% sales tax designed to address the shortage and high cost of childcare for Larimer County families. The agreement begins three years of implementation through 2026 while the county negotiates how the 20-year, $28.7 million-a-year tax will be managed long-term.
The tax will fund four main areas: lowering childcare costs and expanding access to support services; increasing provider wages and workforce stability; building childcare capacity through infrastructure improvements; and program administration and evaluation.
The sales tax, approved by voters on November 4, 2025, as Ballot Issue 1B, will generate $28.7 million annually starting in 2026. The 20-year tax will fund wage increases for preschool and childcare staff, cost relief for families, and facility improvements. The ballot measure also requires an annual independent third-party audit.
The county selected Northern Colorado Kids Thrive from a 2023 solicitation for childcare services partners to coordinate and manage programs through 2026. County officials are negotiating a long-term contract for ongoing management beginning in 2027.
"This is an important day for Larimer County. We are working to create a more bright future for our community by investing in our children and supporting the families who need it most," said Larimer County Commissioner Jody Shadduck McNally.
Christina Taylor, CEO of Northern Colorado Kids Thrive, said: "Northern Colorado Kids Thrive is ready to take the next step in our community to assist families in securing quality and affordable childcare. We are excited to partner with Larimer County on this work."
Heather O'Hayre, Larimer County director of human services, emphasized the connection between voter approval and tangible outcomes. "This agreement allows us to translate the community's trust, shown through the voter-approved tax, into tangible, supportive programs that will directly enhance the well-being of our children and strengthen families across the county," O'Hayre stated.
The county will post updates about the partnership and program plans at https://www.larimer.gov/humanservices as details are finalized.