In election results of direct interest to the greater Stapleton area, three “referred” questions in Denver met with voter approval, and one was rejected. A complementary state-referred measure on revenue retention was also approved. A hotly contested Denver Public Schools at-large position resulted in retention of the incumbent. Here’s a listing of those results as of Wednesday morning, Nov. 4.

Ballot Question 1A (DIA Development), 78% for, 21.9% against

This measure amended a 1980s era Denver/Adams County agreement to allow a limited amount of DIA land to be developed for non-airport related uses.  It also provides for revenue sharing by Denver with Adams County and agreement to create a regional entity to promote business opportunities on and around DIA.  Adams County voters approved the measure by 83.84% in favor vs. 16.16% against.

Ballot Question 2A (College Affordability), 48.1% for, 51.8% against

This measure would have increased the Denver sales and use tax by 0.08% (from 3.65% to 3.73%) to create a fund for scholarships, student loan debt relief and various support services.

Ballot Question 2B (Marijuana Refund), 80.5% for, 19.4% against 

This measure allows Denver to retain and spend all 2014 revenue from the special retail marijuana sales tax as originally approved by the voters on November 5, 2013, and continue to impose and collect the tax. A 69% majority approved a complementary statewide vote on Proposition BB, which allows the state to retain and spend $66.1 million already collected by a state sales tax on marijuana, but which exceed estimates prepared in compliance with the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR). In such instances, the “excess” revenues must either be refunded or the electorate can vote to allow the state to retain the revenue.

Ballot Question 2C (National Western), 65.5% for, 34.4% against

This measure supports several tourism-related projects including upgrades to the National Western Center, infrastructure improvements in that neighborhood (Globeville, Elyria, Swansea), improvements to the South Platte riverfront, and enhancements and expansion of the Colorado Convention Center. Financing aspects include an increase in the city’s debt limit and extension of the city’s lodger’s tax and auto rental tax.

Denver Public Schools At-Large Race, Allegra “Happy” Haynes 50.4% vs. Robert Speth 49.6%. 

This victory by the incumbent board president was by less than one percent of the vote according to the final unofficial tally.  The results remain unofficial until certification on Nov. 17.