A temporary sales tax holiday in Cortez began on Sunday, October 18, and in-person voting in Montezuma County began Monday.
The city's 3.85% sales tax will be suspended through December 31 on eligible retail purchases made within Cortez city limits. All other taxes and fees will still apply, bringing the combined sales tax rate to 3.84% during the holiday, according to the city. That amounts to a savings of approximately 38 cents in savings for every $10 spent.
The holiday is part of the city's effort to reimburse sales tax overcollected from 2021 to 2025 under a special tax rate tied to the Cortez Recreation Center. This sales tax holiday is separate from tax questions on the November ballot. The tax rate is scheduled to go back into effect on January 1, 2027.
Montezuma County's Voter Service and Polling Center opened on Monday at the Annex, 107 North Chestnut Street in Cortez. It is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 29; Saturday, October 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Election Day, November 3, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
At the center, voters are able to cast their ballot, register or update their registration, and request an original or replacement mail ballot. The Ute Mountain Ute Community Center in Towaoc will offer voting services on November 2 and 3. The Dolores and Mancos public libraries will serve as voter service centers on Election Day.
Completed ballots must be received by the Montezuma County Clerk and Recorder by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Postmark dates do not count. The county's elections website has the full list of voting and ballot drop-off locations.
