Arapahoe County approves $2.62 million in SCFD Tier 3 grant recommendations

The Arapahoe County Board of Commissioners voted to approve the Cultural Council's 2026–27 Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) Tier 3 funding recommendations, allocating Arapahoe County's $2,621,753.14 share to a mix of operating and project awards. Daniela Villarreal, the county's Cultural Council liaison, told commissioners the council reviewed 108 eligible applications and proposed 32 general operating support awards alongside 75 project awards.

"These recommendations reflect the council's effort to invest in organizations that provide meaningful cultural, educational, and scientific opportunities for the benefit of Arapahoe County residents," Villarreal said. Commissioners praised the volunteers who reviewed applications; Commissioner Warren Gully singled out the effort and noted the council's work to distribute limited funds across many requests.

The motion to adopt the Cultural Council's recommendations was moved by Commissioner Campbell and seconded; the chair called the question and recorded unanimous aye votes. The funding package will follow normal administrative steps for distribution to the named recipients included in the council's packet. No amendments or conditions were recorded on the dais during the motion.

The approval followed a brief staff presentation describing the SCFD as a region-wide 0.1% sales tax that supports arts, culture, science and history organizations and the Cultural Council's competitive review process. Daniela Villarreal said Arapahoe County had 108 eligible applications this cycle and that the full recommended award list and supporting materials are included in the commissioners' packet.