Advocacy Corner: June 2026 Update

From drought concerns and housing investments to local policy discussions and Realtor® advocacy, here's what DMAR's Government Affairs team is watching this month.

June 9, 2026

Colorado Sees Slight Drought Improvement After Spring Storm

Recent spring snowstorms brought some much-needed moisture to Colorado, resulting in modest improvements to drought conditions across parts of the state. According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report, 82% of Colorado remains under severe drought conditions or worse, down slightly from 86% earlier this month.

The most significant improvements were seen across north central Colorado and the northeastern plains. Despite the encouraging news, statewide snowpack remains at just 14% of the historical median, raising concerns about reservoir levels, stream flows and water supplies as summer approaches.

Water availability remains a critical issue for Colorado communities as they plan for future growth, development and housing needs. DMAR will continue monitoring issues that impact our industry and the communities we serve.

Governor Polis Declares Statewide Drought Emergency

Governor Jared Polis has declared a statewide drought emergency and activated Phase 3 of Colorado's Drought Response Plan as drought conditions continue to worsen. Nearly 93% of Colorado is currently experiencing moderate to exceptional drought conditions, driven by record-low snowpack and an unusually warm winter. The declaration allows the state to coordinate additional response efforts, seek emergency funding and, if necessary, request federal disaster assistance.

While recent storms have provided some relief, water supply concerns remain a significant challenge heading into the summer months. Drought conditions affect agriculture, recreation, reservoir levels and long-term planning efforts across Colorado communities.

As Colorado navigates one of its driest periods in recent history, water conservation and resource management will remain important issues for communities throughout the state.

Wheat Ridge Receives $4.5 Million for Transit-Oriented Housing Project

The City of Wheat Ridge has been awarded more than $4.5 million through Colorado's Transit Oriented Communities Infrastructure (TOCI) program to support infrastructure improvements tied to a planned mixed-income housing development near the Arvada Ridge G Line station.

The funding will support the Ridge Road Infrastructure Project and help facilitate a 200-unit housing development planned by Foothills Regional Housing. The project site is also expected to accommodate future expansion of Red Rocks Community College's nursing program.

As housing affordability and inventory challenges continue across Colorado, investments in transit-oriented development remain an important strategy for expanding housing opportunities while connecting residents to employment, education, and transportation options.

Aurora Considers Rental Registration Program

The Aurora City Council recently held a study session to discuss a potential rental registration initiative that could eventually establish a local rental registration or licensing program.

While no formal action has been taken, city staff presented a proposal designed to improve communication between the City, landlords and tenants while creating a more comprehensive inventory of rental properties and addressing recurring code enforcement issues.

Councilmembers discussed a variety of perspectives, including accountability, implementation costs, enforcement capacity, impacts on property owners and potential effects on housing costs.

The proposal remains in the research phase, and no rental registration requirements have been adopted. DMAR will continue monitoring the discussion and provide updates as the process moves forward.

DMAR Announces 2026 REALTOR® Champion Endorsements

Following interviews conducted by members of the Government Affairs Committee, DMAR is proud to endorse four Realtor® Champions for the 2026 election cycle:

John Diak, Douglas County Commissioner, District 1
Emma Pinter, Adams County Commissioner, District 4
Karen DeAguero, Adams County Commissioner, District 2
Dallas Schroeder, Elbert County Commissioner, District 2

DMAR's endorsement process focuses on identifying candidates who understand the issues that matter most to Realtors®, homeowners and the communities we serve. These Realtor® Champions have demonstrated a commitment to policies that support homeownership, protect private property rights, and promote a healthy housing market. Download your voter guide here.

Save the Date: Dancing with the Stars

Join us on Tuesday, September 15, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at La Rumba for one of DMAR's most anticipated events of the year: Dancing with the Stars!

This annual RPAC fundraiser brings together Realtors®, Industry Partners and community supporters for an evening of entertainment, networking, food, drinks and friendly competition. Watch your fellow DMAR members step onto the dance floor and compete for the coveted mirror ball trophy while supporting Realtor® advocacy efforts.

We hope to see you there for a memorable evening of dancing, laughter and community impact. Get your tickets here.

RPAC Update | 2026 Progress