Boulder City Council · Document
Attachment C_REI analysis
SPECIAL Joint Meeting with Planning Board, December 11, 2025 · item Study Session Items2: Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan Preliminary Policy & Land Use Direction Staff Time: 40 Min Council Time: 140 Min · 25 pages
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Rapid Response Equity Assessment of Key Policy Directions Overview The existing Boulder Valley Comprehensive Plan (Comprehensive Plan or Plan) has not been evaluated for impacts to racial equity in the community. The creation of the plan pre-dates city tools like the Racial Equity Tool and city departments like the Office of Equity and Belonging. This major update to the Plan offers an excellent opportunity to examine how policies and land use choices influence equity throughout the Boulder Valley. This update will integrate racial equity by systematically assessing the potential impacts of policies and goals on people of color. The project team is committed to ensuring that the Plan's outcomes actively promote equity in access to opportunity, environmental quality, housing, health and civic participation.
Approach This approach has two main steps. First, staff are using the city’s Rapid Response Equity Assessment Tool to evaluate how individual draft policies might impact systemic inequities. Second, the team will use these findings to revise policies to improve equity outcomes. The policies evaluated with the Rapid Response Equity Assessment Tool will be prioritized based on several factors: • •
Policies that are new or significantly revised. Policies identified by the city’s Office of Equity and Belonging.
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Policies falling under the “Areas of Focus” (i.e., topics of highest interest to our community)
The analysis incorporates input from underrepresented and minority community members, including direct feedback from community connectors. The team also consulted with staff and external experts from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Feedback from community connectors and affinity groups is still being synthesized to further inform policy direction. Below are the key themes that emerged from our meetings with community connectors. Common Themes from the Draft Policy Review with the Community Connectors •
Action and accountability: Replace soft verbs such as “consider” and “support” with stronger, more active language like “prioritize,” “advance,” or “create opportunities for.”
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Plain, concise language: Favor shorter sentences and direct statements.
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Equity throughout: All policies should reflect equity, accessibility, and justice, not only the Equity policy.
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Accessibility: Integrate stronger accessibility standards.
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Community-centered implementation: Clarify who benefits, how progress will be measured, and who will be at the table for implementation (e.g., local experts on food systems, biodiversity, and cultural practices).
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Resilience against pushback: Language and intent should be strong enough to withstand internal and external resistance to policy changes.
The analysis applied the equity tool to selected draft policies to evaluate: • • • • • •
Who benefits? Who is burdened? Who is missing or excluded? What unintended consequences might occur? How can equity be improved? Shift/opportunity to advance equity?
Application of Rapid Response Equity Assessment to Select Policies Below is a select sample of the equity analysis performed on draft policies. Policies included in this attachment align with some key policy directions highlighted in the December 11 memo to Planning Board and City Council and are organized by Sustainability, Resilience and Equity Framework (SER) goal area.
SER Goal: Accessible and Connected Draft Policy: Joyful & Community-Centered Transportation System The city and county design a transportation system that prioritizes an enjoyable, safe, fun, and community-centered experience for members of the traveling public of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. It will focus on elevating the Boulder Valley as a pleasant, affordable, and convenient place to move around by all modes of transportation to ensure our community remains connected physically, socially and in terms of mobility. Who benefits? •
Residents of all ages, abilities, and income levels.
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People who rely on public, active, or shared transportation.
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Communities historically underserved by transportation infrastructure.
Who is burdened? •
Drivers or residents in car-centric areas may perceive trade-offs in convenience.
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Implementation costs could compete with other social investments if not prioritized equitably.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Community members with mobility limitations that need accessible infrastructure.
Unintended consequences: •
Without equity safeguards, new systems may serve higher-income areas first.
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Safety improvements may not reach historically underserved neighborhoods.
How equity can be improved: •
Explicitly prioritize accessibility, affordability, and connectivity for marginalized populations.
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Include input from disability, low-income, and BIPOC communities in system planning.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Strengthens social and physical connectivity, giving all community members access to opportunities, services, and community life.
Draft Policy: Multimodal Transportation Strategy The city prioritizes moving people over moving cars and provides varied transportation choices. The planning, design, operations, and maintenance of Boulder’s transportation system focuses on improving walking, rolling, bicycling, scooting, and taking transit. The city focuses on creating an equitable and truly multimodal system to ensure it meets people's needs and exceeds their expectations. Who benefits? •
Pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and community memberswithout cars.
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Low-income communities reliant on non-car transportation.
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People with disabilities needing accessible multimodal options.
Who is burdened? •
Drivers in car-dependent areas may experience slower travel times or reduced parking.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Equity gaps if low-income or marginalized neighborhoods are not prioritized.
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Limited attention to seasonal or climate barriers for active transportation users.
Unintended consequences: •
Risk of reinforcing inequities if infrastructure investments favor higher-income, central neighborhoods.
How equity can be improved: •
Prioritize historically underserved neighborhoods and connectivity to essential services.
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Include accessible infrastructure and affordability measures for transit users.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Equitable multimodal access can reduce transportation disparities, enhance safety, and improve quality of life for all community members.
Draft Policy: Innovative Transportation for All The city invests in innovative transportation technologies while ensuring affordability and equitable access to them. Strategies will prioritize cost-effective solutions, support a range of mobility options, and minimize financial or accessibility barriers for community members. Who benefits? •
Low-income community memberswith limited access to transportation.
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People seeking alternative, sustainable mobility options.
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Communities historically underserved by traditional transit infrastructure.
Who is burdened? •
Drivers relying on traditional vehicles may need to adapt.
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Cost or technology complexity may exclude some users if not implemented equitably.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Community members without smartphones or digital literacy to use technology-based systems.
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Accessibility considerations for disabled community members may be overlooked.
Unintended consequences: •
Equity gaps if innovative systems are concentrated in higher-income neighborhoods.
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Risk of widening digital and financial access disparities.
How equity can be improved: •
Include affordability, accessibility, and training in technology deployment.
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Prioritize historically underserved communities in pilot programs.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Ensures all community membersbenefit from emerging transportation technologies.
SER Goal: Economically Vital Draft Policy: Commercial Uses in Residential Areas The city supports small-scale commercial activity in residential areas. Spaces may include home-based businesses, accessory commercial units, or other live-work forms that offer affordable options for local businesses, cottage industries and creatives and contribute to neighborhood vibrancy. The city will create equitable pathways for both property owners and renters to participate in and benefit from these opportunities. Who benefits? •
Local entrepreneurs, including home-based and creative businesses.
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Renters and homeowners seeking supplemental income.
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Neighborhoods gaining vibrancy and local services.
Who is burdened? •
Potential for conflicts between residential use and commercial activity (noise, traffic).
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Community members without resources to start businesses may not equally benefit.
Who is missing/excluded? •
People of color and immigrant entrepreneurs who may face barriers to accessing permits or capital.
Unintended consequences: •
Unequal access to live-work opportunities could reinforce existing inequities.
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Small businesses in lower-income areas may face regulatory or financial hurdles.
How equity can be improved: •
Ensure participation pathways are accessible to historically excluded groups.
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Provide equitable support for renters as well as property owners.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Expands economic opportunity and neighborhood vitality across all communities.
Suggested Revisions: The city will support small-scale commercial activity in residential areas to expand equitable economic opportunities for property owners, renters and underrepresented entrepreneurs while enhancing neighborhood vibrancy and access to local services.
Draft Policy: Night Economy The city supports a vibrant night-time economy that expands access to jobs, services, and amenities beyond traditional business hours. As rising temperatures shift activity away from the heat of the day, a safe, inclusive and well-connected night-time environment will be essential for climate resilience and workforce support. A thriving night economy strengthens opportunities for shift workers, fosters creativity and tourism and reinforces the city’s identity as a dynamic and welcoming place. Who benefits? •
Shift and service-sector workers (hospitality, food service, healthcare, logistics).
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Community members without daytime flexibility, including caregivers or students.
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Creative economy participants, such as artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs.
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Tourists and visitors, contributing to the local economy.
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Local businesses benefiting from extended hours and foot traffic.
Who is burdened? •
Nearby residents (especially low-income renters) who may experience more nighttime noise, traffic, and policing.
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Low-wage night workers who often face transportation barriers, safety risks, and limited late-night childcare options.
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People experiencing homelessness, who may be disproportionately targeted by nighttime enforcement.
Who is missing or excluded? •
Night workers’ families—particularly single parents and caregivers who need supportive services (childcare, transit).
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People with disabilities who may face accessibility or lighting barriers after dark.
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Youth and non-drinkers, who often lack safe, affordable, late-night options.
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Communities of color, who may have less access to safe, welcoming nighttime spaces due to over-policing or exclusionary practices.
Unintended consequences •
Risk of reinforcing inequities if the “night economy” focuses mainly on entertainment or alcohol-based venues rather than inclusive community spaces.
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Increased policing or surveillance in nightlife districts could disproportionately affect BIPOC community members.
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Economic benefits could flow primarily to business owners, not the workers who sustain the night economy.
How equity can be improved •
Define the night economy broadly—not only entertainment, but also essential services, mobility, and workforce support.
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Ensure nighttime safety is approached through community presence and design, not just enforcement.
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Prioritize inclusive access—transportation, lighting, and programming—for all demographics, especially workers and non-drinkers.
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Center the voices of nighttime workers and marginalized groups in planning and governance.
Shift / opportunity to advance equity This policy can reframe the night economy from a commercial amenity into a social and economic equity strategy—supporting workers, climate adaptation, and inclusive access to public space at all hours. It’s an opportunity to recognize the diverse ways people live, work, and gather beyond the 9–5 economy.
Draft Policy: Experiential Economy The city supports a thriving experiential economy that enhances cultural life, strengthens local business, and contributes to a resilient community. Dining, entertainment, arts and cultural events attract visitors, create jobs and enliven neighborhoods. The food and beverage sector forms the foundation of this economy by connecting local producers to consumers and providing gathering spaces. The city supports efforts that expand opportunity, reduce barriers for businesses and reinforce the sector’s role in economic diversity and cultural identity. Who benefits?
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Local business owners, particularly those in dining, arts, and hospitality.
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Consumers and visitors who enjoy vibrant, community-oriented spaces.
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Creative and service-sector workers with increased job opportunities.
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Producers and artisans connecting directly with local markets.
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Neighborhoods that experience increased activity and cultural amenities.
Who is burdened? •
Low-wage service workers, often people of color, who may not share equitably in the profits generated by this sector.
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Community members near high-traffic districts, who may face rising rents, noise, and displacement pressures.
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Small or minority-owned businesses that struggle to afford rents or compete in highcost commercial corridors.
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Cultural producers from underrepresented communities who may face limited access to permits, venues, or funding.
Who is missing or excluded? •
Entrepreneurs of color and cultural leaders whose expressions or businesses may not fit traditional definitions of “cultural” or “experiential.”
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Low-income community members who cannot afford to participate in many experiential activities.
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Nontraditional cultural spaces (faith-based, immigrant community hubs, informal gathering places) that also contribute to the city’s cultural identity but may not be formally recognized.
Unintended consequences •
Risk of cultural commodification, where “culture” is curated for tourists or higherincome audiences, rather than reflecting community diversity.
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Increased gentrification and displacement in neighborhoods where experiential amenities cluster.
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The economic benefits may accrue mainly to property owners and investors, not local community membersor workers.
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Potential loss of authentic local culture if small, grassroots initiatives are displaced by large commercial venues.
How equity can be improved (high-level)
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Frame the experiential economy as a platform for economic inclusion and cultural expression, not only revenue generation.
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Highlight equitable participation—ensuring underrepresented entrepreneurs and artists can access space, capital, and visibility.
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Recognize non-commercial cultural spaces as part of the experiential ecosystem.
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Encourage preservation and celebration of culturally significant places and traditions that reflect Boulder’s full diversity.
Shift / opportunity to advance equity This policy offers a chance to redefine the experiential economy as a community-based economy of belonging, one that values diverse cultural expression, equitable business opportunity, and access to social spaces for all community members, not just visitors or consumers.
SER Goal: Environmentally Sustainable Draft Policy: Nature Everywhere The city supports the creation and care of natural places throughout the community that offer equitable access for community members to live, learn, and play within a natural environment. Who benefits? •
Community members with limited access to natural spaces, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.
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Children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
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All community members seeking recreation, education, and well-being in nature.
Who is burdened? •
Minimal; some land use or resource trade-offs may be required.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Populations with mobility limitations if spaces are not accessible.
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Low-income neighborhoods historically underserved by green space.
Unintended consequences: •
Green spaces could be concentrated in higher-income areas if not intentionally distributed.
How equity can be improved: •
Prioritize the creation and care of natural spaces in underserved areas.
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Ensure accessibility and inclusive design for all ages and abilities.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Promotes environmental justice and community well-being, offering equitable access to nature for all community members.
Draft Policy: Boulder Valley Biodiversity The city recognizes that community well-being and environmental health are interdependent. The city considers the protection and enhancement of biodiversity in decision-making, ensuring that future policies, programs and projects contribute to the long-term health and resilience of local ecosystems. Who benefits? •
Ecosystems, wildlife, and environmental health.
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Community members who benefit from ecosystem services like clean air, water, and climate regulation.
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Communities historically exposed to environmental inequities.
Who is burdened? •
Minimal; some projects may face resource constraints or require trade-offs.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Underserved communities if biodiversity projects are not located near them or fail to consider local needs.
Unintended consequences: •
Biodiversity protection in isolation may not provide tangible benefits to all community members unless coupled with equitable access to nature.
How equity can be improved: •
Integrate biodiversity initiatives with community access to natural spaces.
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Prioritize projects that deliver environmental and social benefits to underserved communities.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Enhances environmental justice while protecting long-term ecosystem health.
Draft Policy: Sustainable & Regenerative Agricultural Practices The city and county require sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices on publiclyowned lands and encourage such practices on private lands. Practices should integrate ecological conservation, enhanced soil health, responsible water use, water quality protection, biodiversity and humane treatment of livestock. Who benefits? •
Local environment and biodiversity.
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Farmers who adopt sustainable practices.
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Community members who rely on healthy ecosystems for clean water, air, and food.
Who is burdened? •
Some farmers may face increased costs or technical challenges.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Small-scale, historically excluded producers who lack resources to adopt practices.
Unintended consequences: •
Practices may unintentionally favor well-resourced farmers if support is not equitable.
How equity can be improved: •
Provide technical and financial support for BIPOC and low-income farmers.
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Ensure access to regenerative agriculture programs for all producers.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Promotes environmental and economic equity by supporting sustainable livelihoods for diverse producers.
Draft Policy: Greenway Preservation & Management The city preserves and enhances greenways to manage flood risk, connect neighborhoods and provide vibrant public spaces. Trails, paths, and mobility hubs support active transportation, recreation and equitable access and the city explores additional amenities to encourage use and enjoyment by all community members. Who benefits? •
All community members, particularly those in neighborhoods near greenways or underserved by parks and trails.
• • •
People who rely on walking, biking, or transit for daily mobility. Communities historically excluded from recreational and public space access. Community members who benefit from environmental improvements such as flood management and ecosystem restoration.
Who is burdened? •
Lower-income households if nearby investments contribute to rising property values or rents.
Who is missing/excluded? • • •
Community members with limited mobility if trails or hubs are not fully accessible. Low-income, immigrant, or non-English-speaking community members if engagement and programming do not intentionally include diverse communities. Communities living in areas not prioritized for greenway improvements.
Unintended consequences: • •
Greenway enhancements could inadvertently accelerate gentrification or displacement in nearby neighborhoods. Lack of universal design or inclusive programming may limit benefits for people with disabilities, older adults, or families with young children.
How equity can be improved: • • • •
Prioritize greenway improvements and amenities in historically underserved neighborhoods. Ensure all trails, mobility hubs, and public spaces are universally accessible and inclusive. Include culturally relevant programming and multilingual outreach to encourage use by all community members. Pair improvements with anti-displacement strategies to ensure long-term equitable access.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: • •
Provides safe, accessible, and engaging public spaces that promote recreation, active transportation, and social connection for all community members. Offers an opportunity to align environmental resilience with equitable access and community health.
Draft Policy: Urban Natural Infrastructure The city and county promote and maintain a network of high-quality natural infrastructure including waterways, open lands, parks, urban tree canopy and plant and habitat corridors, to integrate recreation, social, health and environmental functions. Who benefits? • • • •
All community members, particularly those with limited access to private green space. Communities historically underserved by parks, trails, and natural areas. Community members who gain health, recreation, and social benefits from proximity to green infrastructure. Environmental and ecological systems that support long-term community resilience.
Who is burdened? • •
Community members, in rapidly developing areas if green infrastructure projects increase property values and raise housing costs. Small businesses or residents near new projects who may face temporary construction disruptions or access limitations.
Who is missing/excluded? • •
Low-income, immigrant, and non-English-speaking communities if engagement in planning and maintenance decisions is limited. Community members with mobility challenges if trails, parks, and natural areas are not fully accessible.
Unintended consequences: • •
Investment in natural infrastructure could accelerate gentrification, displacing lowerincome community members from neighborhoods near parks or green amenities. Projects may prioritize highly visible areas rather than historically underserved or environmentally vulnerable communities.
How equity can be improved: • • • •
Engage historically excluded communities in planning and design for parks, trails, and green infrastructure. Ensure all natural areas are accessible for people with disabilities and meet universal design standards. Pair green infrastructure investments with affordable housing and anti-displacement measures. Prioritize projects in neighborhoods with the greatest historical inequities in access to natural spaces.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity:
• •
Provides equitable access to nature, recreation, and environmental benefits across the community. Strengthens social cohesion, public health, and environmental resilience while intentionally serving historically underserved areas.
SER Goal: Healthy and Socially Thriving Draft Policy: A Walkable City The city promotes land use patterns, a built environment, public spaces and a transportation system that support safe, social, walkable neighborhoods for all. The city supports places where community members can enjoyably access daily needs, connect with others and experience nature within a short walk, bike ride or transit trip. Who benefits? • • •
All community members, particularly those who rely on walking, biking, or transit for daily needs. Communities historically underserved by public spaces, active transportation, and neighborhood amenities. People with limited mobility or no personal vehicles who gain improved access to services and nature.
Who is burdened? • •
Community members in higher-density areas or rapidly redeveloping neighborhoods who may experience increased costs associated with improvements. Small businesses or landlords if changes to streetscapes or public spaces affect operations or property maintenance costs.
Who is missing/excluded? • • •
People with disabilities if infrastructure improvements are not universally accessible. Low-income, immigrant, or non-English-speaking community members if engagement and design processes are not inclusive. Community members in historically neglected neighborhoods who may not yet see equitable investment.
Unintended consequences: • •
Walkability and amenity improvements could lead to rising rents or property values, increasing displacement risk. Public space enhancements may inadvertently favor higher-income neighborhoods without targeted equity measures.
How equity can be improved: • • • •
Engage historically underrepresented communities in design and planning for public spaces and transportation improvements. Ensure all improvements meet accessibility standards and serve diverse populations. Include anti-displacement strategies alongside neighborhood enhancements. Prioritize investments in historically underserved neighborhoods to close equity gaps in access to safe, walkable, and social environments.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: • •
Supports equitable access to healthy, safe, and social neighborhood environments. Encourages mobility, social interaction, and access to nature for all community members, improving overall quality of life while prioritizing historically excluded communities.
Draft Policy: Social Infrastructure The city supports and encourages spaces, programs and institutions throughout the city that offer social places for interpersonal connections, belonging, well-being and community cohesion for people of all cultures, generations, backgrounds and abilities. The city recognizes the value of social infrastructure to build community resilience and wellness. Who benefits? •
Community members of all ages, cultural backgrounds, and abilities.
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Historically excluded or marginalized communities with fewer social gathering spaces.
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Vulnerable populations (seniors, low-income, immigrants) who rely on community programs for support and belonging.
Who is burdened? •
No direct burden, though resource allocation may favor some neighborhoods over others if equity is not considered.
Who is missing/excluded? •
People experiencing homelessness/unhoused community members.
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Community members with limited mobility or limited access to transportation.
Unintended consequences: •
Social spaces may unintentionally concentrate in higher-income areas, reinforcing inequities.
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Programming may not reflect cultural diversity if engagement is limited.
How equity can be improved: •
Prioritize investments in underserved neighborhoods.
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Include community input to reflect diverse cultural practices and generational needs.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Strengthens inclusive community networks and resilience, especially for underrepresented groups.
Draft Policy: Arts & Culture Investment The city supports a diverse range of affordable and accessible arts and cultural experiences by investing in art in public places, venues, facilities, special events, and programs that reflect Boulder’s creative spirit and community diversity. Arts and Culture programs reflect the cultural and linguistic diversity of Boulder’s community members. Who benefits? • • • • •
BIPOC and underrepresented artists who gain visibility and access to city resources. Community members of all income levels who can attend affordable and accessible arts and cultural experiences. Neighborhoods across Boulder, particularly those historically underserved by cultural investments. Tourists and visitors benefit from a more vibrant and culturally representative city. Local cultural organizations that receive support for programs and events.
Who is burdened? • • • •
Limited direct burden, but potential indirect issues include: Smaller organizations or independent artists who may compete for finite funding. Communities not included in existing venues if investments cluster in downtown or higher-income areas. Language- or culture-specific groups may face barriers even if programming exists in principle.
Who is missing or excluded? • • •
Immigrant and refugee communities whose arts and cultural expressions may not currently be represented. Youth and intergenerational groups, who may have limited access or voice in cultural programming. People with disabilities if accessibility standards are not consistently applied.
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Non-English-speaking community members, even if linguistic diversity is acknowledged in theory.
Unintended consequences • • •
Investment clustering could reinforce inequities if resources focus on established venues rather than underserved neighborhoods. Cultural programming may favor mainstream or “tourist-friendly” offerings, marginalizing grassroots or nontraditional arts. Without ongoing community input, some groups may feel symbolically included but practically excluded.
How equity can be improved (high-level) • • • •
Ensure that funding and programming explicitly prioritize historically excluded groups. Expand investment into community-based, grassroots, and neighborhood arts spaces, not just central venues. Include linguistic, accessibility, and intergenerational considerations in every program. Track participation metrics by race, income, language, and neighborhood to inform future allocation.
Shift / opportunity to advance equity This policy can move Boulder from simply funding cultural programs to making arts a driver of equity and inclusion, ensuring that all communities see their languages, traditions, and creativity reflected in public life.
SER Goal: Livable Draft Policy: Housing Variety & Supply The city supports increasing the variety of local housing and the housing supply throughout the city. Who benefits? •
Middle-income households seeking affordable, diverse housing options.
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Community members seeking housing that meets their needs in size, type, and location.
Who is burdened? •
Potential opposition from existing homeowners resistant to density changes.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Communities facing barriers to accessing new housing types.
Unintended consequences: •
Supply increases without affordability measures may fail to address equity gaps.
How equity can be improved: •
Ensure new housing variety includes provisions for affordability and accessibility.
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Prioritize neighborhoods historically underserved by diverse housing options.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Expands housing opportunity for middle- and low-income community members, promoting community stability.
Draft Policy: Housing Solutions for People Experiencing Homelessness The city and county collaborate to transition people experiencing homelessness into safe homes. Housing solutions respect the dignity, autonomy and diversity of people experiencing homelessness. Who benefits? •
Individuals experiencing homelessness, including those historically excluded from housing opportunities.
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Communities benefit from reduced housing instability and improved public health outcomes.
Who is burdened? •
Minimal direct burden, though neighbors or property owners may perceive impacts if not included in planning.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Immigrant or undocumented community members who may face barriers accessing services.
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People with complex behavioral health needs may require additional supports.
Unintended consequences: •
Without sufficient supportive services, housing placements may not be sustainable.
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Potential stigma or community resistance to housing projects.
How equity can be improved: •
Integrate wraparound services (health, mental health, job support).
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Ensure distribution of housing opportunities across neighborhoods to avoid concentration of poverty.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Strengthens housing justice, dignity, and inclusion for the most vulnerable community members.
SER Goal: Responsibly Governed Draft Policy: Equity, Racial Justice & Social Resilience The city and county work to dismantle institutional and systemic racism and are committed to ensuring all voices, experiences, and needs of community members are fully and equitably heard and considered, including those of communities that have been historically excluded from local government. The city and county work to reduce the vulnerabilities of people most susceptible to natural or human-caused stressors. Equity is a primary consideration for city investments in engagement, infrastructure, programming, and maintenance. Who benefits? •
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities who have been historically excluded from decision-making.
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Low-income community members, immigrants, renters, and individuals with disabilities.
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Neighborhoods with disproportionate exposure to climate, environmental, or economic stressors.
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The broader community benefits from stronger social cohesion and shared resilience.
Who is burdened? •
No direct burden intended, but groups with institutional power may resist redistribution of resources or influence.
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Without clarity, implementation could burden underrepresented groups with additional engagement expectations without reducing barriers to participation.
Who is missing or excluded? •
Immigrant and undocumented community members who may not feel safe engaging with government.
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Individuals experiencing homelessness.
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Youth voices and intergenerational perspectives.
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Intersectional identities (e.g., LGBTQ+ people of color) not explicitly referenced.
Unintended consequences •
Risk of symbolic inclusion without structural change (“performative equity”).
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Potential for “equity fatigue” if accountability or results are unclear.
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May overemphasize process (engagement) rather than outcomes (reduction in disparities).
How equity can be improved (high-level) •
Explicitly connect racial equity to measurable improvements in well-being, safety, and opportunity.
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Emphasize that equity should shape outcomes and decisions, not only engagement or investment priorities.
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Reference the need to build trust and accountability with underrepresented groups.
Shift / opportunity to advance equity This policy can move the city from intentional inclusion to measurable justice, reframing equity as a guiding principle for decisions that directly improve material conditions (health, housing, environment, opportunity).
Draft Policy: Funding City Services & Infrastructure The city promotes sustainable and diverse sources of revenue to create reliable funding for continued investment in city services, infrastructure, and maintenance to maintain high quality of life for community members, businesses, workforce and visitors. The city explores and utilizes as appropriate the variety of mechanisms enabled through state legislation, such as improvement districts, metropolitan districts, tax increment financing, and urban renewal, to support redevelopment and investments in infrastructure, programs, and services. Who benefits? • • •
Community members who rely on high-quality public services, infrastructure, and amenities. Neighborhoods that need reinvestment or overdue maintenance. Local businesses and workers who benefit from improved transportation, utilities, and public spaces.
Who is burdened?
• • •
Low-income community membersand small businesses if funding tools increase taxes, fees, or assessments. Renters if redevelopment linked to financing tools leads to higher rents or displacement pressures. Communities with limited political influence who may not benefit equally from new investment.
Who is missing/excluded? •
•
Community members who do not typically engage in budget or financing discussions, including renters, lower-income households, non-English speakers, youth, and undocumented community members. Those who rely heavily on public services but are least represented in decision-making.
Unintended consequences: • • •
Financing tools may accelerate gentrification or redevelopment that displaces longtime community members or local businesses. Revenue mechanisms could unintentionally shift costs to those least able to pay. Investment may favor already prosperous areas unless equity criteria are applied.
How equity can be improved: • • • •
Prioritize investments in historically under-resourced neighborhoods and essential community-serving infrastructure. Design revenue tools to minimize impacts on low-income households and small businesses. Engage underrepresented communities in budgeting and financing decisions through multilingual, accessible outreach. Include anti-displacement and affordability protections when redevelopment financing is used.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: • •
Ensures public resources are allocated more fairly and transparently, directing investment toward communities with the greatest need. Provides an opportunity to align financial strategies with racial equity goals and longterm resilience, ensuring funding mechanisms do not deepen disparities.
Draft Policy: Water Resources Planning City water resource planning efforts consider climate change, are regional in nature, and use a variety of strategies, including water conservation, infrastructure improvements, water leasing and water acquisition, to meet municipal and open space agricultural goals. On the municipal side, the city seeks to achieve the water supply reliability criteria through water supply and
demand management while balancing in-stream flow maintenance and preservation of sustainable agriculture. The city and county seek to minimize or mitigate the environmental, agricultural and economic impacts of any necessary water rights acquisitions, including avoiding the permanent removal of land from agricultural production. Who benefits? •
All city and county community members who rely on a stable, resilient water supply.
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Agricultural producers who depend on reliable irrigation to sustain operations.
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Ecosystems and recreation users supported by healthy in-stream flows.
Who is burdened? •
Agricultural communities and water-rights holders who may face financial or operational hardship when water is leased or acquired for municipal needs.
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Low-income households that may be disproportionately affected by rate increases needed to fund infrastructure upgrades.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Historically marginalized communities that may not be represented in regional water planning or conservation program design.
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Small-scale farmers and urban agricultural users who often lack a voice in water-policy decisions.
Unintended consequences: •
Water acquisitions could contribute to “buy-and-dry” outcomes that permanently remove land from agricultural production.
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Aggressive conservation measures, if not equity-centered, may place disproportionate burdens on low-income households with limited ability to upgrade fixtures or landscaping.
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Infrastructure improvements could unintentionally divert resources away from underserved neighborhoods without strong advocacy.
How equity can be improved: •
Prioritize community engagement with agricultural operators, low-income community members, and historically excluded groups.
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Expand equitable conservation programs that include subsidies, rebates, or retrofits for income-qualified households.
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Ensure water-rights acquisitions avoid long-term loss of agricultural land and include mitigation strategies co-developed with impacted communities.
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Use transparent, participatory processes in regional water planning.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Supports climate-resilient, reliable water systems that sustain municipal needs, agricultural livelihoods, and ecological health.
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Creates opportunities to protect agricultural heritage and local food production while advancing more inclusive regional water governance.
SER Goal: Safe Draft Policy: Transportation Safety & Vision Zero The city and county prioritize safety when investing in the transportation system and pursuing the Vision Zero goal. Vision Zero aims to reduce the number of traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries to zero. Investments, project designs, project delivery, and programs prioritize safety so that no one is seriously injured or killed on Boulder’s transportation system. Who benefits? •
All road users, especially pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users.
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Communities historically impacted by traffic-related injuries.
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Vulnerable populations (children, seniors, mobility-impaired persons).
Who is burdened? •
Minimal; potential trade-offs for drivers (traffic delays, reduced vehicle lanes).
Who is missing/excluded? •
Residents of underserved neighborhoods if infrastructure improvements are concentrated elsewhere.
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Consideration of socioeconomic factors affecting traffic exposure.
Unintended consequences: •
Unequal distribution of safety improvements could worsen disparities.
How equity can be improved: •
Focus safety investments on historically underserved or high-risk areas.
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Include diverse community input in safety planning.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Ensures all community members benefit equally from safety-focused transportation systems.
Draft Policy: Community Safety The city manages risk and employs holistic problem solving and crime prevention strategies to support a safe community and participation in active public life. Who benefits? •
All community members, particularly those in underserved neighborhoods.
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Communities historically disproportionately impacted by crime.
Who is burdened? •
Over-policing or inequitable enforcement could disproportionately impact BIPOC communities.
Who is missing/excluded? •
Community members affected by systemic inequities in policing and justice.
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Vulnerable populations whose safety depends on community-based measures, not just law enforcement.
Unintended consequences: •
Policies may unintentionally reinforce inequities if enforcement strategies are not equity-centered.
How equity can be improved: •
Emphasize prevention, community-based safety, and restorative approaches.
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Engage marginalized communities in safety planning.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: •
Supports safe, inclusive public spaces and equitable participation in community life.
Draft Policy: Fire Adapted Communities The city and county are committed to creating and sustaining a fire adapted community by integrating wildfire resilience throughout the Boulder Valley. Strategies work to reduce wildfire risk, enhance safety and plan for efficient and effective response and recovery. Who benefits?
• • •
Community members living in high wildfire-risk areas, especially homeowners. Lower-income households and renters when resilience measures include accessible evacuation planning and affordable protection strategies. First responders and essential workers who benefit from safer conditions and clearer emergency protocols.
Who is burdened? • •
Lower-income community members, renters, and small landlords who may face cost burdens from home-hardening or insurance increases. People without vehicles and people with disabilities who face evacuation challenges.
Who is missing/excluded? • •
Non-English-speaking community members, undocumented community members, and unhoused people who may not be reached through traditional outreach. Renters and workers who are vulnerable but are often left out of resilience and recovery planning.
Unintended consequences: • • •
Increased housing costs or insurance premiums may cause displacement. Recovery investments may disproportionately benefit wealthier property owners. Certain neighborhoods may become stigmatized as “too risky,” limiting future investment.
How equity can be improved: • • •
Provide multilingual, culturally relevant wildfire education and evacuation resources. Develop assistance programs for low-income community members, renters, and affordable housing providers to complete resilience upgrades. Ensure evacuation and recovery planning includes people without cars, people with disabilities, and non-homeowners.
Shift/opportunity to advance equity: • •
Aligns climate resilience with housing stability by centering people most vulnerable to wildfire impacts. Promotes inclusive, community-wide safety strategies rather than property-focused approaches.