Mitchell Byars
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Covering #Boulder for @axios. Formerly @dailycamera; #CUBoulder grad; Hawaii native surviving in a landlocked state with the help of beer, golf and snuggies.
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Articles by Mitchell Byars
Stanley Tucci, Jesse Eisenberg are coming to Boulder for Sundance
Hollywood is headed to Boulder — and Stanley Tucci and Jesse Eisenberg are among the big names gathering for Sundance's first fundraising gala in its new hometown. Why it matters: The star-studded bash will help usher in a new era for the Sundance Film Festival as it makes its historic Boulder debut in January. Driving the news: Sundance Institute announced Friday that Tucci will emcee "The Boulder Debut" gala Jan.
Stanley Tucci, Jesse Eisenberg headline Sundance's first Boulder gala
Stanley Tucci. Photo: Ian West/PA Images via Getty Images Hollywood is headed to Boulder — and Stanley Tucci and Jesse Eisenberg are among the big names gathering for Sundance's first fundraising gala in its new hometown. Why it matters: The star-studded bash will help usher in a new era for the Sundance Film Festival as it makes its historic Boulder debut in January. Driving the news: Sundance Institute announced Friday that Tucci will emcee "The Boulder Debut" gala Jan.
Boulder approves Pearl Arts District rezoning
Boulder's ambitious Pearl Arts District just cleared a major rezoning hurdle. But don't expect the curtain to rise anytime soon. Why it matters: City leaders are betting the project will turn Boulder Junction into an arts and entertainment destination — with a possible starring role in Sundance's future. Driving the news: Boulder City Council voted 8-0 Thursday to rezone nearly 15 acres near Pearl and Foothills parkways, paving the way for taller buildings and far greater density.
Boulder bites: Centro revamp, pizzeria closure, bagels and bakeries
Boulder County's restaurant scene is cooking up some changes, with an old favorite getting a makeover, chains expanding and fresh flavors. Here's what's on the menu: 🌮 Centro's getting a facelift. The longtime Mexican restaurant at 950 Pearl St. will close Saturday and reopen Dec. 8 as Altura, a new "Mountain Mexican" concept under the same owner, Big Red F founder Dave Query.
Boulder County effectively bans large data centers
Boulder County is effectively shutting the door on large data centers in unincorporated areas, adopting some of the strictest limits in the U.S. Why it matters: Boulder County is taking a hard line against energy-hungry data centers as the AI boom drives demand. Driving the news: Commissioners voted 3–0 Tuesday to prohibit standalone data centers using more than 50 kilowatts of computing power, an even stricter limit than the 75 kilowatts county staff recommended.
Boulder voters favor experience in City Council race
Data: Boudler County Clerk and Recorder's Office; Chart: Mitchell Byars/Axios Three Boulder City Council incumbents and a former member are poised to win four of five open City Council seats. Why it matters: Despite budget concerns, voters appear to be sticking with experienced leaders while strengthening the progressive majority on City Council.
Boulder a cappella band Face celebrates 25 years
Face Vocal Band: Photo: Courtesy Face Vocal Band Boulder-born Face Vocal Band turns 25 this year — and they're throwing a birthday bash Sunday at Red Rocks Amphitheatre to celebrate. Why it matters: The group's performed around the world while maintaining its Colorado roots, making this milestone a homecoming for longtime fans. Flashback: Long before "Glee" and "Pitch Perfect" put a cappella in the spotlight, Face was busking on Pearl Street.
Boulder voters reject $400M bond but back higher debt limit
Boulder voters are poised to reject a $400 million plan to renovate aging city buildings, even as they lean the other way on a companion measure to expand the city's borrowing capacity. Why it matters: The rejection would force Boulder officials back to the drawing board to address hundreds of millions of dollars in needed repairs and upgrades to aging city facilities.
Boulder County voters back expanding commission
Boulder County voters appear set to expand the Board of County Commissioners from three to five members, though how they'll be elected remains unsettled. Why it matters: The shakeup would give residents more representation in county government while changing how political power is distributed. By the numbers: The expansion had 65.64% support (74,676 votes), compared with 34.36% opposed (39,098 votes) as of results at 1am Wednesday.
Boulder Mayor Aaron Brockett wins reelection
Mayor Aaron Brockett. Photo: Cliff Grassmick/Boulder Daily Camera via Getty Images Boulder Mayor Aaron Brockett won reelection Tuesday, defeating five challengers to secure a final term leading the city. Why it matters: His victory brings continuity to City Hall as Boulder grapples with budget shortfalls, housing affordability challenges, public safety concerns and major development decisions.
Police arrest suspect in deadly Halloween shooting near CU
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios Boulder police have arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with a Halloween night shooting on University Hill that killed a University of Colorado Boulder student and critically injured another. The latest: Omar Perez faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault in connection with the Oct. 31 shooting, according to Boulder County Jail booking records.
5 local elections to watch beyond Boulder
From creating a new town to raising taxes and rewriting election rules, Boulder County and Broomfield voters have a variety of big local decisions to make Tuesday. Why it matters: The results could change who calls the shots in local government, how residents vote and where millions in tax revenue go. Here are five local races and issues we're watching: ğï¸ 1. Will Niwot become Colorado's newest town?
BVSD school closures move ahead
Boulder Valley School District can move ahead with plans to shut four elementary schools next fall after a judge rejected parents' attempt to temporarily stop the closures. Why it matters: The decision clears the way for BVSD to plan student reassignments and staffing changes, even as the legal fight continues. Driving the news: Boulder County District Court Judge Dea M.
Jeremy Bloom reinvents X Games from Boulder
The X Games are getting a major makeover under former CU football star and Olympic skier Jeremy Bloom, who's reinventing the action-sports brand from Boulder. Why it matters: Bloom is borrowing from Formula 1 and UFC to build a new kind of sports league — and putting Boulder at the center of it. Driving the news: X Games has hired Paul Asencio as its chief revenue officer, effective Nov. 9, as the organization looks to build on the launch of its new team-based competition format.
Boulder's City Council cheat sheet
Boulder voters have big decisions to make Tuesday: Who should lead the city โ and what direction should it take? Why it matters: Housing, public safety, development and city spending are all on the table, with 19 candidates vying for six positions. And with five of nine City Council seats up for grabs, Boulder's political landscape could look very different after Election Day.
Sundance reveals first films, reviving Boulder tradition
The Sundance Film Festival has unveiled the first film selections for its Boulder debut, along with the revival of a beloved local film tradition pioneered by legendary critic Roger Ebert. Why it matters: It's the first taste of what moviegoers can expect when the world-renowned festival arrives and nods to the city's own cinematic roots. Driving the news: Sundance on Wednesday announced seven restored classics for its Legacy program, planned for Jan. 27β31, during the festival's second half.
Boulder tech titans clash with county over tax proposal
Boulder's tech and county leaders are on opposite sides of a proposed tax hike on Colorado's highest earners. Amendment 87 would replace Colorado's flat income tax with a graduated system, potentially raising billions for public services while fueling concerns about the state's business climate. Boulder entrepreneur Dan Caruso, former CEO of Zayo Group, is leading opposition to the measure, warning that higher taxes could drive wealthy entrepreneurs and investors out of Colorado.
Retail revolution invites shoppers to stay awhile
Shopping in Boulder County now comes with something to sip or snack on. The latest: Two unusual retail mashups have recently arrived: Drifters, a thrift store and cocktail bar in Longmont, and Chocolate + Cashmere, a Boulder boutique selling precisely what its name promises. Why it matters: They're part of a growing "experiential retail" trend, as brick-and-mortars offer something online shopping can't: a reason to linger.
Mayor opposes Amendment 87 on 2026 ballot
Photo illustration: Axios Visuals. Photo: Rachel Woolf for The Washington Post via Getty Images Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade is siding with conservatives about Amendment 87 on the 2026 ballot. Why it matters: The first-term independent mayor opposes a ballot measure that could bring billions to state and local governments, including Colorado Springs, in favor of keeping taxes flat.
Boulder tech titans clash with county over tax proposal
Boulder's tech and county leaders are on opposite sides of a proposed tax hike on Colorado's highest earners. Why it matters: Amendment 87 would replace Colorado's flat income tax with a graduated system, potentially raising billions for public services while fueling concerns about the state's business climate.
Sundance moves HQ amid hotel labor dispute
Sundance Film Festival is coming to the Boulder Theater, across the street from Hotel Boulderado. Photo: Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post The Sundance Film Festival is moving its Boulder headquarters out of the Hotel Boulderado as a unionization effort puts the hotel in the spotlight. Why it matters: The relocation puts some distance between Sundance and the labor dispute, but festivalgoers could still encounter picket lines at the hotel and around downtown.
The Prime Time hype is fading at Colorado
The Deion Sanders experiment is under increasing scrutiny as losses are mounting and off-field drama steals the spotlight. Why it matters: Sanders made CU football a national spectacle starting in 2023. But his star power hasn't translated into sustained on-field success. Driving the news: Colorado's 27–24 loss to No. 11 Utah last Saturday dropped the Buffaloes to 2–4, extending their losing streak to four games. That leaves Coach Prime and his team staring down a third losing season in four years.
The Prime Time hype is fading fast at Colorado
The Deion Sanders experiment is under increasing scrutiny as losses are mounting and off-field drama steals the spotlight. Why it matters: Sanders made CU football a national spectacle starting in 2023. But his star power hasn't translated into sustained on-field success. Driving the news: Colorado's 27–24 loss to No. 11 Utah last Saturday dropped the Buffaloes to 2–4, extending their losing streak to four games. That leaves Coach Prime and his team staring down a third losing season in four years.
Boulder's wellness scene gets a Pause
Pause Studio at Boulder Junction. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder Pause Studio is bringing cold plunges, infrared saunas and a menu of high-tech recovery treatments to Boulder Junction. Why it matters: The newcomer adds to Boulder's booming wellness scene, which promises everything from faster, better recovery to stress reduction and more.
New sports bar aims to fill Boulder's void
Boulder's thinning roster of sports bars is getting a boost — with a side of burgers, bowling and bikes. Why it matters: The loss of the beloved Dark Horse and delays at other anticipated watering holes have left thirsty sports fans with fewer places to catch a game. Driving the news: The Werks announced plans to open in Boulder Junction, bringing a combo sports bar, bowling alley and bike shop to 3390 Valmont Road. Catch up quick: Boulder's been waiting for reinforcements to its sports bar lineup.
What to know about Amendment 85 on the Colorado ballot
Colorado voters will decide whether to require ballot questions to be written at an eighth-grade reading level or lower. Why it matters: Ballot questions can be notoriously difficult to understand. How it works: A "yes" vote would amend the Colorado Constitution to: Require state and local ballot titles to use plain language at no higher than an eighth-grade reading level.
Gonzalez and Wiley vie for Colorado secretary of state
Colorado voters will choose a new secretary of state in November, deciding who will oversee the state's elections, voter registration and campaign finance reporting. Why it matters: The race could determine whether Colorado maintains its current election procedures or pursues major changes to how residents register and cast their ballots. Driving the news: Five candidates are running to replace Democratic Secretary of State Jena Griswold, who is term-limited.
1-minute voter guide: Gonzalez and Wiley vie for Colorado secretary of state
Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios Colorado voters will choose a new secretary of state in November, deciding who will oversee the state's elections, voter registration and campaign finance reporting. Why it matters: The race could determine whether Colorado maintains its current election procedures or pursues major changes to how residents register and cast their ballots. Driving the news: Five candidates are running to replace Democratic Secretary of State Jena Griswold, who is term-limited.
1-minute voter guide: What to know about Amendment 85 on the Colorado ballot
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios Colorado voters will decide whether to require ballot questions to be written at an eighth-grade reading level or lower. Why it matters: Ballot questions can be notoriously difficult to understand. How it works: A "yes" vote would amend the Colorado Constitution to: Require state and local ballot titles to use plain language at no higher than an eighth-grade reading level.
1-minute voter guide: What to know about Proposition 133 on the Colorado ballot
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios Colorado voters will decide whether to impose life sentences without parole for child sex trafficking. Why it matters: Proposition 133 would impose the state's toughest prison sentence for the crime and broaden what qualifies as child sex trafficking. How it works: A "yes" vote would: Require life in prison without parole for anyone convicted of trafficking a minor for sexual activity.
What to know about Proposition 132 on the Colorado ballot
Colorado voters will decide whether to make possession of any amount of fentanyl a felony and impose tougher prison sentences for dealing the drug. Why it matters: The measure would sharply toughen Colorado's drug laws, potentially sending more people to prison as the state battles fentanyl overdoses.
1-minute voter guide: Amendment 81 on the Colorado ballot
Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios. Stock: Getty Images Colorado voters will decide whether to require police to alert federal immigration authorities when certain people are charged with crimes. Why it matters: Amendment 81 would loosen Colorado's restrictions on cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
1-minute voter guide: Proposition 132 on the Colorado ballot
Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios Colorado voters will decide whether to make possession of any amount of fentanyl a felony and impose tougher prison sentences for dealing the drug. Why it matters: The measure would sharply toughen Colorado's drug laws, potentially sending more people to prison as the state battles fentanyl overdoses.
Boulder hits Sundance rental goal months early
Boulder has already beaten its short-term rental licensing goal, three months before Sundance makes its Colorado debut. Why it matters: More rentals could help Boulder keep festivalgoers — and their spending — in town while giving residents an opportunity to cash in. Driving the news: As Sundance tickets went on sale this week, Boulder had 1,848 short-term and festival lodging rental licenses issued or pending as of Oct. 1, according to the city and Visit Boulder.
Lawmakers demand action on Boulder County cell service woes
Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios Colorado lawmakers want federal regulators to fix spotty cellphone service in parts of Boulder County after restrictions meant to protect a government research facility disrupted coverage. Why it matters: Unreliable service could leave residents unable to receive emergency alerts or call for help during fast-moving wildfires — not to mention the everyday inconveniences. Driving the news: U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Lafayette) and U.S. Sens.
Outdoor brands keep betting on Boulder
Reima storefront in Boulder. Photo: Courtesy of Reima Two outdoor apparel brands are expanding in Boulder, betting the city's outdoorsy reputation can translate into customers, community and growth. Why it matters: Boulder has long been a hub for the outdoor industry, and a fresh wave of investment shows brands still see value in being close to the people who use the gear.
Parents sue BVSD over school closure plan
Parents and students at a BVSD board meeting on school closures on Tuesday. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder Parents from three Boulder elementary schools slated for closure are suing the Boulder Valley School District, alleging it violated Colorado's Open Meetings Law while developing its consolidation plan. Why it matters: The lawsuit is the latest effort by parents to block — or at least delay — a plan set to reshape 16 BVSD schools beginning in the 2027–28 school year.
The Mitchellins: Boulder's best restaurants, ranked by pants
Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios After nominations, deliberations and rigorous eating on the company dime, the time has come to reveal the inaugural Mitchellins — honoring the finest in Boulder County dining. Why it matters: Boulder and plenty of other Colorado dining communities felt snubbed by this year's Michelin Guide. So we created an award for the rest of us — the everyday eaters who care about good food, fair prices, full stomachs and immaculate vibes.
Colorado aerospace growth starts to slow
Colorado's aerospace industry is flying high — but other states are increasingly trying to muscle into its airspace. Why it matters: Aerospace is an economic powerhouse in Colorado — contributing more than $14 billion to the state's economy and supporting more than 61,000 jobs that paid an average of $179,500 in 2025. That's nearly twice the statewide average.
Longmont Supply takes Colorado cuisine sky-high
Longmont Supply is taking Colorado cuisine to new heights — literally. Why it matters: The rooftop restaurant atop Hotel Longmont aims to be more than an out-of-towners' amenity, with a menu and mountain views to draw locals, too. The vibe: Perched on the hotel's fifth floor, Longmont Supply pairs a modern dining room with an outdoor patio and sweeping views of Longmont and the mountains to the west.
Longmont lands long-awaited boutique hotel
Hotel Longmont. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder Longmont finally has the boutique hotel city leaders have spent decades trying to land, just as Sundance prepares to descend on Boulder County. Why it matters: Longmont has plenty of places to stay, but officials have long argued that downtown lacked an upscale, full-service hotel that could attract visitors, meetings and events — and keep that spending in the city.
Boulder bites: Apples, baseball and chocolate
A sign announcing the arrival of Home Team Deli in the Alcove on Arapahoe. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder The Boulder area's food scene is cooking up plenty to chew on this fall. The big picture: A new sandwich shop is coming, a food truck has gone brick-and-mortar in Louisville and fall food events are filling the calendar. Here's all the latest: 🌭 Home Team Deli, a Colorado sandwich chain, is planning a new location in the Arapahoe Alcove. An opening date hasn't been announced.
Boulder County still waiting on BuffHouse and Dark Horse
Football season is in full swing , but Boulder County is still waiting on two new sports bars expected to help fill the void left by the Dark Horse. Why it matters: Boulder's once-robust sports bar scene has thinned , leaving few dedicated spots to catch the Buffs or Broncos. State of play: BuffHouse , the upscale CU-themed sports bar taking over the former Harpo's and Ralphie's building at 2860 Arapahoe Ave., is targeting a November opening after originally aiming for August or September.
Boulder sports bars face opening delays
The site of the new Dark Horse off McCaslin and U.S. 36. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder Football season is in full swing, but Boulder County is still waiting on two newsports bars expected to help fill the void left by the Dark Horse. Why it matters: Boulder's once-robust sports bar scene has thinned, leaving few dedicated spots to catch the Buffs or Broncos.
Local schools big and small impacted by declining enrollment
CU Boulder's enrollment fell this fall for the first time since the start of the pandemic, driven by a steep drop in international graduate students. International students are an important source of tuition revenue and research talent, making their decline a financial and academic challenge for universities nationwide. Also, Boulder Valley School District is consolidating by closing four elementary schools.
Remi's opens in Lafayette serving Cajun fare
The catfish Pontchartrain at Remi's Cajun Creole Cafe. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder Lafayette, Colorado, is getting a taste of Lafayette, Louisiana, with the arrival of Remi's Cajun Creole Cafe. State of play: Remi's opened this summer at 211 N. Public Road, bringing Southern comfort food, cocktails and live music to downtown. The 60-seat restaurant is owned by Dara Sanchez-Mack, who spent 15 years in hospitality, with Colorado native Napoleon Lewis leading the kitchen.
BVSD approves school closures
The Boulder Valley School board is moving ahead with a controversial plan to close four elementary schools and consolidate or relocate several others. Why it matters: District leaders say the sweeping changes are necessary as enrollment declines, but parents argue the district hasn't exhausted other options before closing or merging schools and upending students' lives. The latest: BVSD's Resilient Schools Proposal passed Tuesday night 5–2.
Ichigo Matcha opens on University Hill
Nutella taiyaki at Ichigo Matcha. Photo: Mitchell Byars/Axios Boulder University Hill is going greener with the arrival of Ichigo Matcha, a Japanese-inspired tea and dessert shop. What to expect: Ichigo, which opened in August at 1313 College Ave. — formerly home to Pizza 3.14 and Cheba Hut — specializes in Japanese matcha drinks and desserts.
BVSD votes for sweeping school changes
The Boulder Valley School board is moving ahead with a controversial plan to close four elementary schools and consolidate or relocate several others. Why it matters: District leaders say the sweeping changes are necessary as enrollment declines, but parents argue the district hasn't exhausted other options before closing or merging schools and upending students' lives. The latest: BVSD's Resilient Schools Proposal passed Tuesday night 5–2.
CU Boulder falls out of top 100 universities
Illustration: Brendan Lynch/Axios CU Boulder fell off U.S. News & World Report's top 100 national universities list this year as the publication changed how it calculates the closely watched rankings. Why it matters: College rankings can shape how prospective students and families see schools, even as critics question how much they really reveal about the quality of an education.
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