Notes from the CDO Director: Investing in Childcare
Happy October,
I am proud to share several important updates from the Community Development Office (CDO). This month’s newsletter highlights land use and housing law implementation updates, the appointment of the Regional Planning Roundtable Commission, and the release of our new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Toolkit. Don't miss important dates for Proposition 123 and the new Transit Oriented Communities Infrastructure Grant Program. We also have details on upcoming events, webinars, and conferences.
For those of you who are attending the American Planning Association (APA) Colorado Conference next week, CDO staff will be participating in several panel discussions or presentations. Come say hello, and we can’t wait to see you there!
All the best,
Andy Hill, Director, Community Development Office
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Land Use and Housing Implementation Updates
 Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Announces High Level of Local Government Compliance with Colorado Law
DOLA is pleased to report a high rate of compliance and compliance-in-progress among subject jurisdictions with various laws related to strategic growth, in many cases well ahead of the statutory deadline. As required by Governor Polis’ May 16, 2025 Executive Order (EO) Regarding Strategic Growth through Compliance with State Laws (D 2025 005), DOLA made an initial determination of the compliance status of local governments subject to seven laws included in the 2024 and 2025 strategic growth legislation. We are excited by all of the work local governments have been doing to bring more housing to Colorado.
Updated Scoring Criteria for Certain DLG Grant Programs
Compliance status will serve as a factor in scoring and grant prioritization (not a condition for eligibility or withholding of funds) for 34 grant opportunities across multiple State agencies, including DOLA, the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), the Colorado Energy Office (CEO), and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) identified by the August 13, 2025, Executive Order (EO) D 2025 011, which updates and supplements EO D 2025 005. The EO excludes projects necessary solely for public health or safety as well as disaster relief programs. We invite local governments to reach out to our staff if they have questions or concerns about the compliance decisions or the potential impacts on grant prioritization.
Below is the list of the applicable grant programs within DLG:
Regional Planning Roundtable Commission Appointed
 Twenty one members of the new Regional Planning Roundtable Commission within DOLA were appointed on September 30, 2025. The commission consists of representatives from local governments, state agencies, and individuals with expertise in affordable housing, climate and environmental issues, and tourism, with members appointed by their respective organization and Governor Polis.
- The Commission was created by HB25-1198 to assist local governments in addressing regional opportunities and challenges related to housing, land use, transportation, and environmental planning.
- The new Commission will assist DOLA in its mission and is not authorized to make decisions independently that would then be binding on DOLA or local governments.
After an initial meeting to elect a chair and establish its procedures and operation framework, the commission will only meet when a local government requests assistance in addressing a regional opportunity or challenge. DOLA plans to initiate this first meeting in 2026.
Contact Scott Williamson with any questions.
Resource Spotlight: Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Toolkit and Supportive Jurisdiction Certification
 ADU under construction in Denver
CDO has recently released a new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Toolkit.
This comprehensive resource offers practical materials to streamline the process of researching, updating, and implementing ADU regulations, programs, and outreach to create more affordable, equitable, and diverse housing options.The Toolkit is also helpful for local governments seeking ADU Supportive Jurisdiction certification from DOLA per HB24-1152. This certification allows communities to access the Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program (ADUG) and makes their residents eligible for CHFA funding opportunities.
To be certified, jurisdictions must comply with HB24-1152 and actively implement strategies that encourage ADU construction or conversion. To learn more about becoming certified, contact DOLA Technical Assistance Staff.
CDO will continue to update the Toolkit as ADU programs evolve statewide.
Reminder: Proposition 123 Commitment Filing Deadline is November 1, 2025
 For communities interested in becoming eligible for Proposition 123 funding, the commitment filing process is currently open through November 1, 2025. Over 200 local governments have already taken this step, unlocking access to the State Affordable Housing Fund. By filing a commitment, communities can gain access to over $310 million in annual funding – not only for local government, but also for residents, nonprofits, and affordable housing developers.
Please reach out to the Proposition 123 Community Support Team for filing support or more information.
Deadline Extended: Neighborhood Centers Pilot Round
 The deadline for the pilot round of the Neighborhood Center program has been extended to Friday, November 21, 2025. Participating communities can also achieve early designation of Neighborhood Centers as State agencies begin to consider these designations in their grant prioritization criteria. Complete the Neighborhood Centers Pilot Designation Round form to kick off the process.
2025 Colorado Resiliency Framework Update - Engagement Opportunities
 The Colorado Resiliency Office still needs your input to refine strategies for the 2025 Colorado Resiliency Framework (CRF) update! Please consider two ways to get involved:
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CRF Input Survey: Open to all sectors and interested individuals in Colorado. It takes ∼15 minutes and closes October 24, 2025.
- Final CRF Engagement Resiliency Summit: Join us November 13, 2025, (1:00-3:00 PM OR 5:30-7:00 PM) to review and provide feedback on the draft CRF strategies. Register for the session that works best for you.
Funding
NEW: Transit Oriented Communities Infrastructure Grant Program
The pilot round application for the Transit Oriented Communities Infrastructure Grant Program (TOCI) opens on October 27, 2025. This program will offer funding to local governments for the purpose of upgrading infrastructure and supporting regulated affordable housing in Transit Centers and designated Neighborhood Centers within certified Transit-Oriented Communities.
Prospective applicants may indicate their interest in applying by answering this 3-minute, TOCI Interest survey. Potential applicants also must schedule a pre-application meeting with the TOCI Program Manager and the DOLA technical assistance team.
Housing Planning Grant Program (HPLN) Funding Cycle Opens November 7, 2025
The third funding cycle of HPLN be open Friday, November 7, 2025, through Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. MST. This program offers grant funds to support housing needs assessments, housing action plans, and comprehensive plans elements (strategic growth and water supply).
Program guidelines, application materials, and other relevant information is available on the HPLN website.
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