Broomfield sends new Xcel franchise agreement to Nov. 3 ballot
If voters approve it, the 20-year franchise would start Jan. 1, 2028 and keep the city’s 3% franchise fee and 1% undergrounding contribution.
Broomfield City Council approved Ordinance No. 2307 on second reading July 7, sending a new gas and electric franchise agreement with Public Service Company of Colorado, doing business as Xcel Energy, to voters at the Nov. 3, 2026 general municipal election.
If voters approve it, the 20-year franchise would begin Jan. 1, 2028. The council packet says the agreement keeps the franchise fee at 3% of gross revenues and preserves a 1% undergrounding contribution used to help bury overhead electric lines.
According to the packet, the revised agreement also clarifies utility relocation rules, adds detail on emergency work, expands reporting and audit language, and reorganizes sections on environment, conservation and next-generation planning. The franchise would also apply to parks and open space.
The ordinance would not take effect unless approved by voters and would replace the city’s existing Xcel franchise when that agreement expires at the end of 2027.