Study Session of the Aurora City Council, May 18, 2026

The Aurora City Council held a study session on May 18, 2026, focusing primarily on the Build Up Aurora capital improvement bond program and the establishment of a new Office of Public Safety Accountability. The council reviewed a $264 million bond proposal to fund 65 infrastructure projects across transportation, public safety, and community facilities, supported by a 0.325% sales and use tax increase. The bond program aims to address critical infrastructure needs with a 30-year sunset on tax increases and includes annual reporting requirements to ensure transparency and progress tracking. Additionally, the council discussed the creation of the Office of Public Safety Accountability, designed to provide independent oversight of public safety departments, including police and fire services. The office will have broad access to data and systems, conduct audits, and engage with the community to enhance transparency and accountability. Budget considerations for staffing this office were noted, with funding coming from the general fund. The council also debated an ordinance to require reporting of infectious diseases at detention facilities, including the GEO Group-operated ICE facility, with some members expressing concerns about potential political motivations and fiscal impacts. The ordinance was moved forward despite objections. Overall, the meeting involved significant procurement-related discussions around capital project funding and the establishment of oversight mechanisms affecting future public safety contracting and resource allocation.