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What is a Metropolitan District?

Colorado Revised Statute Title 32, also known as the Special District Act, was created to allow for the formation of districts to provide public services above and beyond what counties or municipalities may provide. The law defines ten services that metropolitan districts may provide to their residents and requires that each district provides at least two of the ten.

Metropolitan districts are mainly funded through property taxes. Currently, there are approximately 1,850 special districts in Colorado with more forming each year as urban growth expands. For more information, please visit the Colorado Department of Local Affairs website here.

The Old Ranch Metropolitan District, Upper Cottonwood Creek Metro District, and Upper Cottonwood Creek Metro District Nos. 2-5 are special districts that are much like governmental entities. Old Ranch Metro District is responsible for all facets of the maintenance and operation of parks, trails, open space and recreational facilities. It levies property taxes that pay for capital improvements, maintenance, and operations.

A District manager, attorney, engineer, and landscaper all work at the Board’s direction to make sure the District’s operations run smoothly.

For more information about the District, the Board, or any related questions, please reach out to Josh Miller, District Manager.

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