It stands for Citizens for Arts to Zoo.

The Scientific & Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) was initially passed by Denver metro area voters in 1988 and included a sunset clause – meaning the tax would need to be periodically renewed or it would expire. Its early proponents recognized that a long-term organization would be necessary to raise funds and oversee its extension campaigns. CATZ formed as a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization in the early 1990s to serve in that capacity.

More than 14.5 million attendees annually enjoy access to vibrant and diverse cultural organizations each year, contributing significantly to the metro area’s quality of life. This includes outreach to more than 1 million underserved residents and access for some 4.2 million student visits. What’s more, the SCFD provides an outstanding return on investment – generating some $3.12 billion in economic activity for the metro area.

In its three previous renewal elections, voters have shown their approval for and appreciation of the SCFD’s cultural funding model:

% of Approval

• 1994 - 57%

• 2004 - 66%

• 2016 - 63%

Because the current extension expires in 2030, the SCFD Board hopes to receive legislative approval to put the next extension on the 2028 ballot.