A history of home rule.
In 1902, Colorado voters adopted home rule. Since then, home rule has continued to evolve from the first six home rule municipalities to 105 in 2023.
Our state’s home rule provisions for self-governance in local matters and associated protections against legislative preemption are among the most robust in the nation. Since 1923, the League has been a critical part of the conversation, advocating for and defending the powers of home rule municipalities in the legislature and courts.
CML is celebrating its 100th anniversary, and this month we are taking a look back at the League’s involvement with home rule through the decades. As we stroll through home rule history, you’ll hear from some familiar faces, including past League staff.
After Colorado amended its constitution in 1902 to permit home rule, it was swiftly adopted by six municipalities—Colorado Springs, Delta, Denver, Durango, Grand Junction, and Pueblo. Today, Colorado is home to 105 home rule municipalities. Between then and now, home rule has evolved while local control remains both established and sometimes elusive. CML's article on the history of home rule looks at the court rulings, amendments, and other developments that shaped what we know as home rule today.
For more information please visit: https://cmlresource.com/century-of-service/story-two/