What is the process for applying for a grant through the Adams County Open Space Sales Tax grant program?

After submitting an application, you will be expected to submit a site video. Two meeting are scheduled for each cycle. At the first meeting applicants will present their request to the Open Space Advisory Board, (“OSAB”). At the second meeting the OSAB will make formal recommendations. Next, staff brings the OSAB’s recommendations before the Board of County Commissioner’s for final approval at Public Hearing. Following Public Hearing, you will be asked to execute a grant agreement (contract), which lays out the reimbursement procedures for the grant award.

Are there any special qualifications I must meet in order to apply for a grant?

You must represent a qualified jurisdiction or obtain sponsorship from one of these qualified jurisdictions: City of Arvada, City of Aurora, Town of Bennett, Bennett Park and Recreation District, City of Brighton, City of Commerce City, City of Federal Heights, Hyland Hills Park and Recreation District, City of Northglenn, Strasburg Parks and Recreation District, City of Thornton, City of Westminster, and Adams County.

What types of projects are funded through the Adams County Open Space Sales Tax grant program?

The types of projects that can be funded through the grant program are parks and/or open space related including: the purchase, construction, and maintenance of: horse, bike or running trails; natural areas with limited development for fishing, hiking, walking or biking; wildlife preserves; lakes for fishing with accessible walks, docks, picnic areas and restrooms; conservation easements on agricultural land; environmental education programs; lands and waterways as community buffers; river and stream corridor land; unimproved flood plains; wetlands; preservation of cemeteries; picnic facili

How are Open Space Sales Tax revenues distributed?

The Open Space Sales Tax revenues are distributed in three ways. First, 2% of the total revenue is used for administration expenses. Second, 30% of the remaining monies are distributed back to the taxing entity in the proportion in which they were generated. The taxing entities contributing to the Open Space Sales Tax are: City of Arvada, City of Aurora, Town of Bennett, City of Brighton, City of Commerce City, City of Federal Heights, City of Northglenn, City of Thornton, City of Westminster, and Adams County.

What is the Open Space Sales Tax?

The Open Space Sales Tax is a sales tax of 0.25% (25¢ on a $100 purchase). It was passed by Adams County voters in 1999 as a 0.20% sales tax (20¢ on a $100 purchase) which would expire at the end of 2006. In 2004, Adams County voters renewed the sales tax through 2026 and increased it to the current level of 0.25%.

Why isn't my name on the release when I am the person who paid off the loan?

A warranty deed or quit claim deed is executed and recorded at the time of sale. Title to real estate is held subject to the Deed of Trust, which is released from the records when it is paid off. If the mortgage loan was assumed from another party, the previous owner's name(s) is listed on the original security instrument (a deed of trust or mortgage); therefore, the lien on record with the local recording jurisdiction is listed in their name(s).

Why do I have to pay a fee?

Chase charges a "convenience fee" for processing the transaction. The fee is not charged by Adams County, nor does Adams County receive any part of the fee. By state statutes, the County government is not allowed to charge or receive any part of a fee for credit card payment transactions.

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