A metropolitan district ("metro district") is a small local government created under Title 32 of Colorado law. Developers often form one to build a new neighborhood's roads, water and sewer lines, parks, trails and other public improvements. The district pays for that work over time, mostly through property taxes paid by the people who own property there.
Each district is governed by an elected board of directors and must follow Colorado's open meeting, open records, budget and election laws, like any other local government.
What does my district pay for?
Every district is different. Its service plan, approved by the city or county, sets what it may build, operate and borrow. Common examples:
- Repaying bonds used to build streets, water and sewer lines, drainage and parks
- Landscaping and upkeep of common areas, parks, trails and entry monuments
- Snow removal on district-owned property
- Amenities such as pools, clubhouses or playgrounds
- Covenant enforcement and design review, in some communities
How does it show up on my tax bill?
Your district appears as its own line on your county property tax bill, stated as a mill levy. One mill equals $1 of tax for every $1,000 of your home's assessed value (a percentage of market value set by the state).
For example, a home with a market value of $1,000,000 might have an assessed value of about $65,000. In a district levying 50 mills, that home pays $65,000 × 50 ÷ 1,000 = $3,250 a year to the district. Your actual assessed value is on your county assessment notice.
Most districts levy two parts: a debt levy to repay bonds and an operations levy for upkeep and administration. Some districts also charge fees, such as a monthly operations or trash fee, billed separately. For more detail, see Understanding your budget and mill levy.
Metro district or HOA?
Many communities have both. The district usually owns and maintains public infrastructure, while the HOA handles private common areas and covenants. See Metro district or HOA? for a side-by-side comparison.
Who runs the district?
A board of five directors sets the budget, approves contracts and makes the district's decisions at public meetings. Directors serve staggered four-year terms, and regular elections are held in May of odd-numbered years.
To serve, you must be an eligible elector: a registered Colorado voter who either lives in the district or owns taxable property in the district (or is the spouse or civil union partner of an owner). See How district elections work.
How can I get involved?
- Attend a board meeting. Dates, agendas and minutes are posted on your district's website.
- Read your district's annual budget and audit.
- Consider running for the board when a seat opens.
Where to find your district's information
Every active metro district in Colorado must keep an official website listing its board members, meeting dates, budget, audit and how to reach the manager. Not sure which district you're in? Check your county property tax bill, or search the state's Local Government Information System.
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. For questions about a specific district, contact that district’s manager or attorney. Board members can find training and resources through the Special District Association of Colorado.