Why Buy into Boulder?

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To Support Boulder

We’ve all heard that “buying local” is a good thing to do, but how important is it for Boulder’s economy? What does your investment buy? And where does $3.41 for every $100 purchase go? These are questions addressed below. In addition, retail sales taxes will make up about32 percent of Boulder’s 2010 budget.

Most Boulder residents, employees, and visitors quickly discover that Boulder offers almost every type of shopping experience. Boulder is home to boutiques, galleries, local independent shops, outdoor farmers’ markets and many national retailers. You can find what you need right here in Boulder.

A couple of things impact your community when you make purchases here:

By the Numbers

Sales Tax 101: When you shop in Boulder, you pay sales tax that goes directly to the City of Boulder pay for its services and programs.

For every $100 you spend at Boulder stores, $3.41 stays in Boulder (to support services)
Boulder projects $73.4 million in retail sales tax collections for 2010
Retail sales taxes will make up approximately 32 percent of Boulder’s 2010 budget

Why are sales taxes so important to the City of Boulder? They make up a big portion of the city’s budget; however, sales tax collections have been on the decline due to the recent economic downturn nationally, statewide, and locally.

* 2008: The city collected $2.1 million less in sales/use taxes than were projected

* 2009: The city anticipates that sales/use tax collections will be at least $5.4 million less than originally budget

* 2010: Collections could be lower than originally projected by as much as 8 percent or $7.2 million

Current tax revenues are not keeping pace with the inflationary costs of providing services. Costs like materials for street construction continue to outpace the resources available to fund them. To ensure a balanced 2010 budget, the City of Boulder has reduced the total operating budget by $5 million by implementing efficiencies, reducing staffing, and limiting non-essential services. Choosing to shop in Boulder is an investment in your city. Keeping your shopping dollars in Boulder – rather than making online purchases or shopping in neighboring communities – buys into your community and the services you enjoy. If you live, work or play in Boulder, buying here supports the community the services and programs it provides. You’re investing in the city’s future and the tangible return on that investment directly contributes to a sustainable community and enhanced quality of life. Buying in Boulder is easy and it makes good sense.

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