Governor’s Race Debate: Holt and Reyes Spar Over Property Taxes, Housing and Water

DENVER — The two candidates for governor met for their only scheduled televised debate on Thursday night, clashing over property taxes, housing costs and the state’s long-term water supply in a 90-minute exchange that was pointed but largely free of personal attacks.

Former county commissioner Andrew Holt and state Treasurer Elena Reyes stood at podiums a few feet apart on a university stage as moderators from three local stations pressed them on the issues voters say matter most. Polls show the race within the margin of error, with about 1 in 8 likely voters still undecided.

Property taxes take center stage

The sharpest moment came early, when moderators asked how each candidate would respond to rising property tax bills after a year of steep home appraisals. Holt said he would push for a hard cap limiting annual increases in assessed value to 3 percent for primary residences. “Families are being taxed out of homes they paid off years ago,” Holt said. “A cap gives people certainty. You should be able to predict your bill the way you predict your mortgage.”