FAQs

What will these measures amend?

The current Castle Pines city charter. If passed, these two amendments will be added to our current city charter, which is the document that specifies how Castle Pines does business as a Home Rule city. 

Does voter approval interfere with the City Council's job?

No, not at all. Our City Council will still fulfill every bit of its responsibility to Castle Pines residents. In compliance with the annexation policy, Council members will thoroughly evaluate fiscal impacts, technical data, infrastructure needs, environmental care, and public feedback before exercising their legislative role. Voter approval simply ensures that neighbors have a direct voice alongside the Council when shaping the future of our town.

Will requiring voter approval put a stop to new development in Castle Pines?

It isn't about stopping growth—it's about growing thoughtfully!  Castle Pines residents support growth that enriches our community, protects our precious water resources, preserves open spaces for wildlife, and generates revenue without placing extra tax burdens on local families. When a proposed annexation hits all those right notes for our city, residents can gladly endorse it with a YES vote at the ballot box.

If the city already has guidelines for annexation, why do we need voter approval too?

Because guidelines are helpful, but the heart of Castle Pines is its people! The city’s policy provides essential standard guidelines, but it leaves out the most vital voice—yours.

Our residents are smart, engaged, and deeply invested in the place we call home. When large development projects come along, they directly shape our traffic, schools, water, and way of life. Castle Pines voters are more than capable of understanding these big decisions and voting for what’s best for our community’s future. Giving you the final vote ensures that major annexations truly reflect the wisdom and vision of the people who live here.

Don’t residents already have legal ways to challenge an annexation?

Technically yes, but the current options place a heavy, unfair burden on everyday citizens. Right now, if neighbors want to contest an approved annexation, they only have two choices:

    Option A: Race against the clock to collect signatures from 5% of all Castle Pines residents and file a court petition within a tiny 30-day window.

    Option B: Take the City to court—which means hiring expensive lawyers and spending huge amounts of personal money on a lengthy lawsuit.

Neither path gives residents a fair, proactive voice. Requiring voter approval up front replaces costly legal battles and stressful signature rushes with a simple, transparent vote at the ballot box.