One of the most significant moments in Highlands Ranch Water's history didn't involve a new reservoir, treatment plant or pipeline. Instead, it gave residents a greater voice in the future of their water provider.

In 2020, voters approved an inclusion election that expanded the boundaries of what was then known as Centennial Water & Sanitation District to include all properties within Highlands Ranch Metro District and Mirabelle Metropolitan District, also known as Solstice. The inclusion election paved the way for residents throughout the district’s service area to become eligible to serve on its Board of Directors. The transition reflected the community's evolution from a growing master-planned development into a mature community led by its own residents.

The 2020 inclusion election did not change water or wastewater service, nor did it create new taxes. Highlands Ranch Water has never levied a property tax and continues to be funded primarily through customer rates and fees. The measure simply expanded district boundaries to align with the customers already being served.

Today, Highlands Ranch Water is governed by a five-member Board of Directors elected by the community. Board members serve staggered four-year terms, with elections held every two years in accordance with Colorado special district election laws. This staggered schedule provides continuity while giving residents regular opportunities to help shape the district's future.

While special district elections often receive less attention than county, state or national elections, the decisions made by the Board of Directors have a direct impact on the community. The board establishes policies, adopts the district's annual budget, sets water and wastewater rates, oversees long-term infrastructure investments, protects the community's water supplies and ensures the district continues providing reliable, high-quality service for future generations. By voting, residents have a voice in selecting the leaders responsible for these important decisions.

The next Highlands Ranch Water Board of Directors election will be held May 4, 2027, when three board seats will be on the ballot. Highlands Ranch and Solstice residents who prefer to vote by mail can request a mail-in-ballot today.

As Highlands Ranch Water celebrates 45 years of serving the community, the 2020 inclusion election remains one of the district's most transformative milestones. It ensured that the people who depend on Highlands Ranch Water every day also have the opportunity to guide its future through both service on the board and participation at the ballot box.

Learn more about the district’s Board of Directors.