Denver Voters Reject Affordable Housing Tax Proposal

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has conceded defeat for Ballot Issue 2R, a measure proposing a 0.5% sales tax increase to fund affordable housing, which was narrowly rejected by voters with 51% opposed. The measure aimed to generate about $100 million annually to build or preserve affordable housing units, addressing the city's affordability crisis, and was a key part of Johnston's campaign promise to create over 25,000 permanently affordable units within eight years. Despite the lack of organized opposition, the measure faced criticism for its vague rollout and insufficient spending guidelines. Mayor Johnston remains committed to addressing housing challenges through alternative solutions, as Denver is projected to need 44,000 affordable units in the next decade. Voters' rejection of 2R contrasts with their approval of a separate tax measure to support Denver Health, indicating selective support for tax increases.