Evans Daily Briefing: Fire Sales Tax, City Planning, Opioid Funds

Fire district sales tax now in effect

Merchants in Evans are now required to collect a new one percent sales tax on qualifying purchases within the Evans Fire Protection District. The tax, approved by voters last fall, took effect on January 1 and applies to most retail sales made inside the district’s boundaries, which match the city limits. Certain categories remain exempt, but businesses are being urged to review the rules carefully and update their point‑of‑sale systems so they are charging the correct total rate.

The fire district notes that the revenue is intended to support fire protection, emergency medical response and other all‑hazards services for the community. The tax will be administered through the Colorado Department of Revenue, so local businesses will remit the new portion alongside their existing state and local collections.

City asks residents to help shape long‑range plan

At City Hall, work continues on the “Evolution of Evans” strategic plan, a roadmap that will guide decisions on growth, transportation, parks and city services. City leaders and a consulting team began laying the groundwork late last year and are now turning to residents, businesses and community groups for detailed feedback on priorities.

The city has launched an online engagement hub where people can suggest ideas, comment on others’ proposals and try a budget simulation tool that shows how shifting dollars affects services. Input gathered this month will feed into a council and staff planning session later in February, helping to refine a vision for Evans over the next several years.

Opioid settlement dollars to fund local responses

Regionally, Weld County’s opioid council is preparing to steer about $8.8 million in settlement funds over the next 18 years into prevention, treatment and education efforts. While programs will be countywide, Evans residents are expected to benefit from new or expanded initiatives aimed at curbing addiction and improving access to services.

The council is soliciting project proposals for 2026, with an emphasis on partnerships that can reach people where they live, work and go to school. Local agencies, nonprofits and health providers serving Evans are among those eligible to compete for funding, potentially bringing more resources into the city of roughly twenty‑two thousand people.

Sources

• https://www.evansfiredistrict.org/notice-of-new-sales-tax/
• https://www.evansfiredistrict.org/
• https://www.evanscolorado.gov/news/posts/city-requests-citizen-feedback-as-strategic-planning-gets-underway/
• https://www.weld.gov/Government/Departments/Health-and-Environment/Health-Education-Communication-and-Planning/Weld-County-Regional-Opioid-Council