Your guide to Election 2017
Boulder and Broomfield counties
Healthy Business. Clean Energy. Sustainable Boulder.
FORWARD for Clean Energy! ump a d e ede a Go ernm de y e u ge cy o c a e ch hange e, we need d to step FORWARD—to create a clean local electric utility.
Independent Local Power: • Can gett uss to 100% renewables; Xcel does s not share this goal.
• Keeps our money at home, reinvesting utility revenue es back in our community.
• Spurs clean eneergy entrepreneurship and local innovation not available under the regulated monopoly structure.
YES on 2L, 2O, 2P
“Challenging the status quo is neither quick nor easy, but our efforts are paying off: the PUC has given us a path forward. Let’s stay the course and vote YES for 2LOP! The planet is counting on us.” —Boulder Mayor Suzanne Jones (2015-Present)
Funds critical legal and engineering work to understand the final costs of creating a publicly owned electric utility for Boulder.
2O Public Vote to Finance Local Power Requires a vote of the community before issuing debt to establish a muni.
2P Extend Executive Sessions Continues City Council executive sessions for the purpose of discussing municipalization strategy, not Xcel settlements that end the muni process.
Millions of Dollars
Xcel/PSCo’s After-Tax Profits DWARF Boulder’s 2L – Utility Occupation Tax for Municipalization
A “No” vote on 2L makes us pay all this, with no control.
20188 200199 200200 20021 20022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037
2-L Utility Occupation Tax for Municipalization
Current Elected Officials Suzanne Jones, Boulder Mayor Matt Appelbaum, City Council Lisa Morzel, City Council Sam Weaver, City Council Mary Young, City Council Steve Fenberg, State Senator Edie Hooton, State Representative Elise Jones, Boulder County Commissioner
Former Elected Officials Susan Osborne, Boulder Mayor Shaun McGrath, Boulder Mayor Cindy Carlisle, City Council Macon Cowles, City Council Crystal Gray, City Council Steve Pomerance, City Council Allyn Feinberg, City Council Dickey Lee Hullinghorst, CO House Speaker
Businesses
2L Renew the Utility Occupation Tax
20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0
ENDORSERS INCLUDE:
Xcel’s After-Tax Profits from Boulder
Aqua Care Solar • Bhakti Chai • Carmichael Productions • Construction Technology Consultants • Cool Energy • Ecocycle • Elephant Journal • HOMER Energy • May Yin Architecture • Namaste Solar
Non-profits CRES-Boulder County • Rocky Mountain Peace & Justice Center • Natural Capitalism Solutions • PLAN-Boulder County • New Era Colorado • Sierra Club-Indian Peaks Chapter • 350 Colorado • C3-Climate Culture Collaborative
Citizens, including: Len Aiken • Dennis Arfmann • Tom Asprey • Joe Breddan • Bill Briggs • Julie Brown, DDS • Alison Burchell • Cindy Carlisle • Regina Cowles • Paul Culnan • Rebecca Dickson • Molly Fitzpatrick • Lili Francklyn • Evan Freirich • John Gerstle • Duncan Gilchrist • Leslie Glustrom • Christina Gosnell • Jill Grano • Chris Hoffman • Blake Jones • Jeremy Kaplan, MD • Eric Lombardi • Emma Marion • Leonard May • Joe McDonald • Mario Molina • Bob Morehouse • Jim Morris • Mirabai Nagle • Micah Parkin • Mary Pettigrew • Liz Payton • JoEllen Raderstorf • Ken Regelson • Diane Rosenthal • Tim Schoechle • Brad Segal • Zane Selvans • John Spitzer • Rick Tazelaar • Steve Welter • Bob Westby • Julie Zahniser
See the full list of endorsers at EmpowerOurFuture.org
Don’t Buy the Naysayers’ Myths! Get the facts: 2 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
Healthy Business. Clean Energy. Sustainable Boulder. • Experience that counts: City Council member, clean energy entrepreneur & CEO, former volunteer fire chief • Values that matter: hard-working, principled, collaborative and responsive • Actions that deliver: climate advocacy, affordable housing, social justice and community character “Sam Weaver is one of the highest-contributing members of City Council. It is critical to re-elect Sam as we move forward on so many important community issues. His ability to come up with creative and collaborative policy solutions to difficult City issues makes him an invaluable member of our Council.” - Suzanne Jones, Mayor, City of Boulder
E N D O R S E D B Y T H E S E O R G A N I Z AT I O N S Sierra Club, PLAN-Boulder County, Together4Boulder, Boulder Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO, Save South Boulder, Martin Acres Neighborhood Association, Southeast Boulder Neighborhood Association
ENDORSED BY CURRENT AND FORMER ELECTED OFFICIALS Laurie Albright, Matt Appelbaum, KC Becker, Aaron Brockett, Cindy Carlisle, Allyn Feinberg, Steve Fenberg, Mike Foote, Sam Fuqua, Stan Garnett, Crystal Gray, Josie Heath, Rollie Heath, Edie Hooten, Elise Jones, Matt Jones, Suzanne Jones, Dickey Lee Hullinghorst, Claire Levy, Alice Madden, Tina Marquis, Shaun McGrath, Lisa Morzel, Joe Neguse, Susan Osborne, Jared Polis, Steve Pomerance, Bill Ritter, Jr, Dorothy Rupert, Andrew Shoemaker, Ron Tupa, Ruth Wright, Mary Young
sam4council.org Authorized and paid for by Sam Weaver for City Council 2017 Committee. Steve Fenberg, Treasurer.
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 3
How and where to vote HOW TO VOTE Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. You must return your mail ballot or be in line at a Voter Service Center by 7 p.m. that day in order for your vote to count. Ballots will be mailed to eligible, registered voters beginning Oct. 16.
While voters can register right up to and lot Track at boulder.ballottrax.net/voter# For more election information, visit: even on Election Day, the last day to register or Boulder County — bouldercounty.org/elecchange your registration and still receive a ballot in the mail is Oct. 30. If you register or tions Broomfield County — broomfield.org/153/ change your registration after that date, you Elections must vote in person. Track your mail ballot by signing up for Bal-
BOULDER COUNTY
Where does the Camera stand?
BALLOT DROP-OFF
To read the Daily Camera editorial board’s endorsements in select races and ballot issues this election, visit dailycamera.com/opinion/daily-cameraendorsements.
24-hour ballot drop-off boxes Hours: Open beginning 8 a.m. Oct. 16, and close at 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 7. Locations: Boulder Boulder County Clerk & Recorder, 1750 33rd St. Boulder County Courthouse, East Wing Entrance, 2025 14th St. Boulder County Housing and Human Services, 3400 Broadway University of Colorado, University Memorial Center, 1669 Euclid Ave. South Boulder Recreation Center, 1360 Gillaspie Drive Lafayette Lafayette Public Library, 775 W. Baseline Road Longmont Boulder County Clerk & Recorder/St. Vrain Community Hub (corner of Sixth Avenue and Coffman Street) Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road (on Fairground Lane near the south parking lot) Garden Acres Park (18th Avenue between Sunset and Juniper streets) YMCA, 950 Lashley St. Louisville Louisville Police Department,
St. Vrain Community Hub/Boulder County Clerk & Recorder, 515 Coffman St.
BROOMFIELD 992 W. Via Appia Way Superior Superior Town Hall, 124 E. Coal Creek Drive
Drive-by ballot drop-off Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 3 (Boulder and Longmont only) 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 4 (Boulder and Longmont only) 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 6 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 7 – Election Day Locations: Boulder Boulder County Clerk & Recorder, 1750 33rd St. Longmont Boulder County Clerk & Recorder/St. Vrain Community Hub, 534 Terry St. (west side of complex) Lyons Lyons Town Hall, 432 Fifth Ave. (only Nov. 6 and 7) Nederland Nederland Community Center, 750 N. Colo. 72 (only Nov. 6 and 7)
VOTER SERVICE AND POLLING CENTERS Services include: ballot-drop-off,
in-person voting, request a replacement ballot, voter registration or update registration information, vote using equipment and facilities for people with disabilities. Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 16 through Oct. 27 — only at the Boulder County Clerk & Recorder’s Boulder office and weekdays only; however, the Lafayette and Longmont offices will have voter registration forms and ballot dropoff during normal business hours. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 30. through Nov. 3 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 4 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 6 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 7 — Election Day Locations: Boulder Boulder County Clerk & Recorder, 1750 33rd St. University of Colorado, Environmental Health & Safety Center, 1000 Regent Drive. Room 220 Lafayette Boulder County Clerk & Recorder, 1376 Miners Drive Longmont
BALLOT DROP-OFF Open 24 hours a day from Oct. 16 through 7 p.m. Nov. 7, Election Day. George DiCiero City and County Building, 1 DesCombes Drive Paul Derda Recreation Center, 13201 Lowell Blvd. Redpoint Ridge Park (northwest corner), 11337 Central Court Flatirons Marketplace, 170 E. Flatiron Crossing Drive Guard House @ Anthem, 16591 Lowell Blvd.
VOTER SERVICE AND POLLING CENTERS Services include ballot-drop-off, voter registration, in-person voting, requesting mail-ballot replacements. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays Oct. 30 through Nov. 6 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Nov. 4 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 7, Election Day Locations: George DiCiero City and County Building, 1 DesCombes Drive Paul Derda Recreation Center, 13201 Lowell Blvd.
INSIDE Four Mile Fire Protection District Issue 5B ............... 6
Longmont Mayor ................................................... 23 Boulder Questions 2O, 2P, 2Q ............................... 35
Boulder City Council Candidates ...................... 6-13
Longmont Question 2J, 2K ....................................24 Lafayette Issues 2A, 2B.......................................... 36
Lafayette City Council Candidates...................14-19 Longmont City Council ....................................26-27 Lafayette Issues 2C, 2D, and 2E ............................ 37 Louisville City Council ..................................... 20-21 Boulder Valley School Board .......................... 28, 30 Broomfield Mayor .................................................. 39 Louisville Question 2G ...........................................20 Boulder County Issue 1A........................................31 Broomfield Issue 301..............................................39 Louisville Issue 2F ..................................................21 Boulder County Questions 1B, 1C......................... 31 Broomfield City Council .................................. 40-45 Longmont Issue 2H, Issue 2I ................................. 22 Boulder County Issue 5A, Boulder Issue 2L........... 32 Election 2017 ballot overview.................................46
4 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
If elected, I will work to create: A Boulder that is inclusive of a wide range of incomes With the average single family home price exceeding one million dollars, it’s nearly impossible for our teachers, nurses, law enforcement, artists, service workers, and many more to live in the town in which they work. If elected, I will bring my housing expertise to the table and will strive to help Boulder meet and exceed its affordable housing goals.
A Boulder that supports its most vulnerable populations Supporting our most vulnerable populations is the right thing to do and it provides incredible social and economic benefit to our community. Food insecurity, lack of access to physical and mental health care, and inadequate access to elderly care is on the rise. If elected, I will make our citizens who are struggling a priority and will strive to seek solutions to these complex problems.
A Boulder that is powered by 100% renewable energy With the Federal Government continuing to take steps to dismantle the environment and clean energy, it’s more important than ever that municipalities take steps forward. Wind and solar have never been more affordable, yet 71% of Boulder’s power still comes from fossil fuels. If elected, I will diligently work towards a decarbonized, decentralized and democratized energy future.
A Boulder that embraces the arts and encourages creativity and expression Art plays a critical role in creating a vibrant, thriving community. According to the National Endowment for the Arts, Boulder has the third highest per capita population of working artists in the country, yet we allocate very little to support the arts. If elected, I will work to increase the availability of gallery and performance space, as well as public art acquisition.
A Boulder that recognizes and supports its small businesses As Boulder grows and welcomes new enterprises, we must support the small businesses we already have who are struggling to make it here, as well as the next generation of entrepreneurs that will build on our vibrant business community. If elected, I will work to ensure there is small business support while keeping the entrepreneurial spirit alive in Boulder.
A Boulder that preserves and enhances its Open Space Legacy Boulder’s legacy of protecting and preserving open space has been one of our greatest environmental, social, and economic successes. Our trails systems are under considerable strain due to increased users, so it is vital we emphasize maintenance moving forward. If elected, I will strive to balance conservation and recreation priorities on our open space.
Quotes: “Jill is sincere, empathetic, and works incredibly hard for her family. Jill has proven herself to be fully committed to our diverse and beloved Boulder. We are facing many challenges for the foreseeable future.We need Jill’s perspective and her voice. I am grateful that Jill has thrown her hat in the ring and is willing to offer us her talent and time.” - House Representative Edie Hooton “I support Jill Adler Grano for Boulder City Council. She cares and she is not afraid to act. Her experience working in the community on climate action, renewable energy, recognizing the importance of the arts, our small businesses and taking care of our most vulnerable populations makes her exactly who we need on council at this time.” -Senator Stephen Fenberg
ABOUT JILL Jill is a mother, business woman, community activist, and volunteer. If elected, Jill would be Boulder’s first openly LGBTQ City Councilperson in more than 40 years. Jill’s background & experience: • Degree in Political Science from The College of William & Mary • Former civics teacher at Watershed School • Board member of New Era Colorado for 5 years • Board Member of Thistle Communities • Vice Chair of The City of Boulder Board of Zoning Adjustments • Volunteer at the Boulder Homeless Shelter and Meals on Wheels • Member of City of Boulder Housing Working Group • Advocate for Mobile Homeowners
Recognitions: • 2017 “Serving our Seniors” Award from Colorado Senior Lobby - for helping protect mobile homeowners from predatory tax lien investors • 2015 “40 Under Forty” Award from BizWest - honoring young professionals who are shaping the future of the Boulder Valley
SUPPORTERS OF JILL FOR CITY COUNCIL Group Endorsements “Grano is one of the most Better Boulder appealing council candidates Sierra Club we’ve encountered — a mom with young children, a proud Open Boulder representative of the LGBTQ Engage Boulder community, knowledgeable on Daily Camera real estate and affordable housing, Boulder Weekly two key areas going forward.” Elected or Appointed Officials - The Daily Camera Jared Polis, U.S. Representative Steve Fenberg, State Senator KC Becker, State Representative Edie Hooton, State Representative Stanley L. Garnett, Boulder County District Attorney Elise Jones, Boulder County Commissioner Suzanne Jones, Mayor of Boulder Matt Appelbaum, City Councilperson & former Mayor Aaron Brockett, City Councilperson Andrew Shoemaker, City Councilperson Bob Yates, City Councilperson Formerly Elected or Appointed Officials The Honorary Jean Dubofsky, Former Colorado Supreme Court Justice Leslie Durgin, Former Mayor of Boulder Will Toor, Former Mayor of Boulder Macon Cowles, Former City Councilperson Tim Plass, Former City Councilperson Francoise Poinsatte, Former City Councilperson Joe Neguse, Former CU Regent
Claire Clurman Individuals Colin Kirby Adam Stenftenagel Collette Roy Aly Nicklas Coral & Will Frischkorn Amanda Genakos Corey Kohn Amanda Salzman Damelia Mujica Amy Nack Dana Derichsweiler Andrew Hyde Dan and Cindy Caruso Anna Lappe Danica Powell Ann Cooper Darcy Shively Anne & Paul Cure Darvin Ayre Anne Lee Foster David Adamson Becca Blay David Ensign Ben Alexandra Dennis Arfmann Betsey Martens Denny McCloskey Bobby & Danette Stuckey Dr. Carol Conzelman Bobby Brown Dr. Matthew King Bob Morehouse Edith Pressler Botsy Phillips Eric Budd Brett & Jennifer Zimmerman Fern O’Brien Brook Eddy Geoff Williamson Bryan Bowen Gerry and Nicole Wienholt Carly Silberman Hannah Davis Carole Lundeen Holly Lind Caroline Quine Inga Pae Peterson Casey Easton Ingrid Walsh Cate Cook Jacques Juilland Chantal Pierrat Jason Vogel Chelsea Pohl Jen Sherry Christie & Poss Lambert Paid for and Authorized by Jill for City Council
Jeremy Durham Jessica Yates Joan Haug Joey Walker Joshua Scott Onysko Judy Amabile Kate Kripke Kate Lacroix Kelly Degnan Ken Hotard Kim and Jake Rosenbarger Korrie Lewan Lara Fairbanks Lauren Folkerts Lauren Folkerts Leslie Glustrom Lisa Kaufmann Lucy Conklin Mark Weakley Mary Duvall Mary Lynne & Doug Hixson Matthew Haies Maya Burlingame Megan Hudson Mel & Mark Glenn Michael Rush Michelle Estrella Mimi Mather Mindy Miller
Nathalie Pratt Nicole Duke Nikhil Mankekar Peggy Markel Pete Lopinto Phyllis Rogers Pieter Oosthuizen Regina Cowles Rick Miller Ryan Van Duzer Sabrina Clauson Sandy Younghans Sarah Kinn Shelley Dunbar Steve & Carly Silberman Steve Elmes Steve Remmert Steve Watts Sue Fagan Sue Prant Sukhraj Kaur Gipple Susan Freeman Mann Tatiana Maxwell Terry Cipoletti Thomas Wells Victoria Olson Waylon Lewis Willow King Zachary Barr Zane Selvans
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 5
Four Mile Fire Protection District Issue 5B: Tax increase What it asks: “Shall Four Mile Fire Protection District taxes be increased by $175,000 annually in 2018, and by whatever amount is raised annually thereafter by an additional tax levy of 10.800 mills, commencing for year 2017 taxes due and payable in 2018, such taxes to be imposed in addition to the district’s current mill levy of 12.000 mills, for general operating purposes, with all revenue received pursuant to said mill levy to be used for all legitimate purposes; and shall the revenue from such taxes, and investment income thereon, constitute voter approved revenue changes and be collected and spent by the district without regard to any spending or revenue restrictions or other limitations contained within article X, section 20 of the Colorado constitution, the 5 1/2 percent limit set forth in section 29-1-301, c.R.S., or any other law, and without limiting, in any year, the amount of other revenue that may be collected and spent by the district?” What it means: The measure would increase taxes in the Four Mile Fire Protection District by $0.0108 on each dollar of property value in the first year. What supporters say: The money would help to pay for the district’s operations. What opponents say: Those who object to paying more taxes may oppose this measure.
BOULDER CITY COUNCIL
Bill Rigler Website: billforboulder.com Age: 42 Family: Single How long in Boulder: five years Neighborhood: Uptown Broadway Professional background: Currently an independent consultant; chief of staff to former vice presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro, spokesman and director of communications at Al Gore’s global climate change initiative, director of marketing and communications at Naropa University Political/community experience: Chair, Transportation Advisory Board; appointee, Marijuana Advisory Panel; member, Boulder Chamber’s Community Affairs Council; board member, Boulder Ensemble Theater Company Education: Master’s degree from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from
Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? I no longer believe that we should continue to pursue muni. My commitment to addressing climate change through effective carbon reduction strategies is clear, and I wholly support Boulder’s goal of achieving 100 percent renewable power by 2030. Following the PUC’s decision, however, it is clear to me that it is now time to take an offramp. We must push Xcel to fully commit to the direction in its Clean Energy Plan, and I believe we should increase investments in energy efficiency and localized renewable energy investments. How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network? I believe that pursuing broadband can encourage more telecommuting, support our long-term economic vitality and secure equal access to information. We have seen large dips in the number of single occupancy vehicles (SOVs) as a result of increased telecommuting, and broadband could play a huge role in encouraging significant reductions in traffic, not to mention reducing carbon emissions. I support the
City’s current stated broadband objectives, including a ubiquitous build-out, competitive access to the network and opportunities to provide high-speed access to those with limited financial resources. I believe it’s appropriate for the city of Boulder to maintain control over broadband, and support a publicprivate partnership to help spread the costs and risks associated with investment in the broadband infrastructure. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? I completely empathize with friends who are forced to choose between increasingly expensive rents in Boulder or moving out of town in order to save for their first home. And, if we want to reduce traffic congestion here, we must address the middle-income housing crisis here. I strongly support housing options for a broad spectrum of incomes, as well as a sensible housing policy that includes the direct city purchase of affordable rental units and incentives for mixed-use housing development in commercial zones. Crucially, we can avoid imposing greater density in established neighborhoods.
Boulder Bou lder Vall Valley ey Educa Education tion Association’s Association’s 2017 School Board Election
Recommended Candidates Tina Marquis
Dean Vlachos
Kitty Sargent
We believe that electing this slate of candidates will ensure a high-functioning school board that will act in the best interests of our students and community. After a tumultuous spring—the loss of our superintendent, questions about board transparency—it’s very important that we elect people who value our extraordinary district, healthy working relationships among all district stakeholders, and good governance. Can I vote for all three recommended school board candidates? Yes! BVSD Voters will vote for all three recommended candidates: Tina Marquis, Dean Vlachos, and Kitty Sargent
Re-elect
Tina Marquis BVSD School Board
Paid for by the Boulder Valley Education Association Small Donor Committee
6 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
BOULDER CITY COUNCIL
Mark McIntyre Website: markforcouncil.com Age: 57 Family: Wife, Jill, daughter, son-in-law, two grandchildren, son and fiancé, mother and in-laws How long in Boulder: 40 years Neighborhood: Melody-Catalpa Professional background: Partner for 30 years at Marketing Technologies (engineering sales for U.S. manufacturers) Political/community experience: Active volunteer in Boulder community for 40 years with schools, various boards and panels involving arts, open space and cycling issues; supporter and campaign worker for progressive issues and candidates Education: B.F.A. from University of Colorado Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? We need to reach our carbon goals with urgency, innovation and resolve. I also believe that a municipal utility is a good thing. I wish we had formed ours 100 years ago. It is an important strategic goal to have pursued. Reluctantly, I have decided that our muni effort is too expensive and too slow. Let’s take credit for pushing Xcel to increase their use of renewables statewide. Now, we need to negotiate and partner with them to actually reach our goals. We need to be looking ahead to reinstitute our occupation tax to broadly support our climate goals with actions like solar subsidies for lower- and middle-income residents, solar gardens and various electric vehicles, etc.
Camilo Casas Website: boulder.parti.vote Age: 32 Family: Spouse, Saskia Westhof, dog, Nusu How long in Boulder: four years Neighborhood: Mapleton Hill Professional background: Behavioral public health specialist with Mental Health Partners Political/community experience: Extensive work in Boulder Human Services and with the Boulder Valley
How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network? As we grow into the 21st century, we need to regulate broadband as a public utility. High-speed, fiber optic connections at reasonable cost should be available to residents and businesses alike. This is key to our future as a technology hub and for the next generation of Boulderites. Longmont has shown how highspeed connections can be available and affordable. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? We must walk our talk on affordability, diversity and inclusivity. We can do this by: • Flexibility in accessory dwelling units, granny flats, etc., and allowing older residents to continue to occupy their homes while having a renter in a legal, safe unit on the property. • Considering modification of our three to four unrelated persons ordinance. • Implementing multi-use zoning in current commercial areas that encourages new and cozy neighborhoods that integrate workshops, restaurants, local retail, office, R&D companies and light manufacturing with live-above residential. • Supporting the work of Boulder Housing Partners to have permanently affordable housing in every part of town. BHP also should be the lead in partnering with our sister communities in Boulder County to make sure that we have a regional housing plan upon which we act. Affordability can come in other ways. Getting to work via automobiles can be a costly challenges for workers. A citywide Eco-pass can shift the budget of a person or family to allow more for housing and less on commuting and automobiles.
School District Education: Bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in human sciences from the University of Oxford Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? Yes, absolutely. How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network? The most important next step is completing the municipalization process. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? Increase political participation from lower-income residents.
“It’s time for our generation to lead the change we envision for the world. I will do this, by putting our Future First.” “Matt Benjamin is a quick study, thinking deeply about the issues that the community faces... he is one of the hardest-working candidates this year.” – BOB YATES “Vote for @MBforBoulder for #Boulder City Council because new eyes on old problems is an asset! #datadriven” – DAN POWERS @ActionDannyP
WHAT I'M COMMITTED TO Effective Governance Affordable Housing for Middle Income Families Renewable Energy Goals Re-evaluating Transportation Needs and Plans Balanced and Controlled Growth and Development Evidence Based Decision Making
Endorsed by The Boulder Daily Camera and Best Democracy
@MattBenjaminFutureFirst www.mattbenjaminfuturefirst.com Paid for by the Committee to Nominate Matt Benjamin for City Council
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 7
BOULDER CITY COUNCIL
Adam Swetlik Website: adamswetlikforboulder.com Age: 30 Family: Single How long in Boulder: 11 years Neighborhood: Manhattan Drive Professional background: Product marketing manager at SparkFun Electronics (20102017); doorman at Walrus Saloon (20142017). Head coach of University of Colorado men’s rowing team (2010-2014)
Political/community experience: Rowing coach for all three local community rowing organizations: Colorado Junior Crew, Colorado Crew, Boulder Community Rowing Education: B.S. in business with a marketing emphasis from CU’s Leeds School of Business Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? Yes. If Boulder is to reach its commitment for 100 percent renewable energy by 2030, municipalizing is the only means to do so. I don’t believe our energy future should be in the hands of a large corporation that is profit-driven. We need to make bold changes right now to ensure a sustainable future for
all of us. This is not only a fight for our energy future, but a clear message to our whole country that we will put our planet ahead of profit. How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network? The internet has become the cornerstone of communication for our nation. Providing the ability for all to use broadband would keep Boulder as a leader in quality of life and education. I think it would be best to partner with Google to provide broadband for our entire community. Google’s campus was approved before a linkage fee was in place meaning Boulder lost out on millions of dollars for affordable housing. If Google helps provide citywide
trical power, and continue to pay for its other coal plants and Xcel’s outmoded systems. Most importantly, we won’t be able to source and generate our own clean electric supply and have greater Website: carlisleforcouncil.com resilience in our energy future. Age: 72 How do you believe the City Council Family: Two children should proceed with regard to Boulder’s How long in Boulder: 49 years pursuit of a citywide broadband netNeighborhood: West Pearl work? Professional background: Teacher and If the numbers work out for the editor municipal electric utility, then we will Political/community experience: Forhave the infrastructure on which to run mer Boulder City Council member, the broadband cables much more 1986-1990; University of Colorado cheaply, just like Longmont already has regent, 2003-2009; active on various city and like Fort Collins is pursuing. They task forces, initiatives, can do this at very little additional cost, neighborhood activities; because they have their own municipal City Council candidate electric utilities. Another good reason to in 2013, state senate stay the course. The key is for the city candidate in 2008 to not give up control to a private, forEducation: B.A. and profit corporation. M.A. from University of Is there anything that can be done to Colorado, Gates Fellow make Boulder a more affordable place to at the Kennedy School live? of Government 1) Looking at rezoning opportunities Do you believe Boulder should contin- like rezoning from commercial to ue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy mixed use. An excellent small-scale and form a municipal electric utility? example is on the northwest corner of Yes. Having a municipal electric utili- Eighth and Pearl: retail below, including ty gives us control over our energy a high traffic coffee shop, offices and future. We voted to determine if a residential above, all scaled to fit nicely municipal electric utility could be operinto the neighborhood and provide terated at equal or less cost and with equal rific amenities. Parking is underground or greater reliability than Xcel. The pri- and minimally around the building. mary reason was to stop using coal as 2) Raise the linkage fees on new the primary source of our electrical development which help pay for affordpower when viable clean alternatives — able housing. Linkage fees are now such as solar, wind, hydro — are availbelow what the staff conservatively recable. Continuing the effort now will ommended. determine if our efforts are financially 3) Raise the number of inclusionary realistic — or not. If we don’t move for- affordable units in new development ward, we’ll continue paying for Xcel’s 4) Change the zoning that overComanche III mega coal-burning elecwhelmingly favors jobs over residential.
Cindy Carlisle
We need bold, progressive leadership to fight climate change, to honestly face our critical housing and transportation demands, and to create a more welcoming community with broader participation in local decisions.
Endorsed by
Boulder Area Labor Council
KC BECKER, Majority Leader, Colorado State Legislature JONATHAN SINGER, Colorado State Legislator AARON BROCKETT, Boulder City Council Member JAN BURTON, Boulder City Council Member BOB YATES, Boulder City Council Member LESLIE DURGIN, Former Boulder Mayor
ElectEricBudd.org ElectEricBudd
@ericmbudd Paid for by Elect Eric Budd
8 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
ericmbudd
broadband, it would be a great step toward benefiting everyone in our city. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? We need council members who will make low- and middle-income housing our city’s top priority. For years, we have focused on job creation, leading to a huge imbalance in housing and that has made living here impossible for many hard-working members of our community. With proper representation for the working people of Boulder, we will have the opportunity to prioritize creative housing solutions that add density and reduce cost. Until we increase our supply of housing, Boulder will never be an affordable place to live.
for City Council
s i h t n i L L We’re A ! R E H T E G O T
• Fiscal Accountability • Neighborhood & Regional Outreach • Civil Discourse • More Hope, Less Fear
What These Community Leaders Say About Ed: Having been involved in City issues for many years, Ed would hit the ground running on City Council. He always contributes an informed and reasoned perspective on issues, and Ed’s calm and affable manner will be a valuable asset on Council. – Andrew Shoemaker, Deputy Mayor “City Council works best when its members understand and respect the many different perspectives in our community. Ed Byrne has the depth and breadth of community experience to represent ALL of Boulder – not just one interest group.” – Leslie Durgin, Former Mayor of Boulder I’ve always known Ed to be open- minded and pragmatic when it comes to the issues facing our city. He has a vision, but also knows how to collaborate to find common sense solutions that’s exactly what we need on city council. – Suzy Ageton, former City Council member We endorse Ed Byrne, a pragmatic moderate we know from his work on our Editorial Advisory Board . . . Byrne’s long history of civic involvement, including a stint in the city attorney’s office, will help to offset the loss of institutional memory with the departures of Appelbaum and Shoemaker. – Boulder Daily Camera, 10/8/2017
Organizational Endorsements: Boulder Daily Camera Boulder Area Labor Council (AFL-CIO) South Boulder Creek Action Group Best Democracy FIDOS
VOTE Ed Byrne
Elected/Appointed Supporters: • The Hon. David Skaggs • Andrew Shoemaker • Suzy Ageton • Leslie Durgin • Dorothy Rupert • George Karakehian • Stan Garnett • Joe Pelle • DeAnne Butterfield • Jean Dubofsky • Frank Dubofsky • Steve Bosley • Bill de la Cruz • Bob Yuhnke • Rich Lopez • Gary Myre • Richard Polk • Gordon Riggle • Phil Shull • Bill Holicky • Jeff Dawson • Danica Powell • Fenno Hoffman • Paul Saporito • David Biek • Stephen Sparn • Stan Zemler
• Jesse & Margaret Kumin • Brandy LeMae & Joseph Vigil • John Lashbrook & Ellie Weldon • Steve LeBlang • Marcy Lockhart • Neal Lurie • Betsey Martens • Martie McMane & Alan Johnson • Ulla Mertz • Ed Mills • Steve Montgomery • David & Tracy Nassar • Andy Littman • Pat O’Brien • Fern O’Brien • Tim O’Shea • Alexia Parks • Mark Queripel • Scott Rodwin • Alan Rogers • Bonnie Sandoval • Jason Savela • “Fritz” Satterly • Julie & Bruce Shaffer • Barbara Steinmetz • Ed and Deb Shapiro • William Shutkin • Marc Sotkin • Sam Susskind • Molly Tayer • Brent & Bonnie Tregaskis • John Tweedy • Claire & Carlos Valdano • Deborah Voss • Cindy Ward • Kelly & Ron Wawrzynek • Linda Wolpert • Mark, Linda and Miah Roan-Yager • Conor, Erin & Kathleen Byrne
: by BER M E ed M e E c R e re iv th must b 7
for City Council , tter. INDEPENDENCE + EXPERIENCE matt VISIT www.byrneforcouncil.com to learn more
Other Notable Supporters Include: • David Adams • Alma, Richard & Jacque Alber • Karl Anuta • Lou Barnes • Janet Beardsley • Marlyn Bohn • Wade & Suzy Brantley • Roz Brown • Buzz Burrell • Anne Byrne • Jessica Catlin • Tom Chamberlain • Bing Chou • Shawn Coleman • Brian Coppom • Bonnie Dahl • Malcolm & Karen Daly • Bruce & Carleen Dierking • Bob Drake • Michelle Estrella • Steven Fisher • Dean Fogerty • Richard Foy • Nick Forster • Mark Ginsberg • Jon & Mimi Goodman • Clif Harald • Ed & Chris Halteman • Aaron Harber • Barrie Hartman • Dan Hayward • Peter Heinz • Jon & Liz Hinebauch • Charles B. (Chuck) Howe • Ken Hotard • Steve Jacobson • Michael Johan • Bill & Martha Jones • Kathie Joyner
Ballots ember on Nov M ffice: P 0 7:0 lerk’s O C ty n u the Co yours to Boulder Deliver t, e 3rd Stre 1720 3 6:00 PM 0 AM :0 8 t a Fri-S 8:00 PM M 0 AM P Mon 8:0 :00 AM - 7:00 7 y a d s Tue
Paid for Byrne for Council
Ed Byrne
...the reasonable alternative and independent candidate with experience, expertise and a lifetime of community service.
By working together we can make Boulder even better!
Paid for by Byrne for Coucnil. Erin Byrne,Treasurer. ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 9
BOULDER CITY COUNCIL The paths to citywide broadband differ depending on the outcome of municipalization. To that end, it would be premature to define our options Website: mattbenjaminfuturefirst.com until we know the outcome of municipalization for either this election or the Age: 35 “go/no-go” decision in two to three Family: Wife, 2-year-old son years. I support the exploration of BoulHow long in Boulder: 17 years der broadband as it could offer local Neighborhood: South Boulder Professional background: Astronomy residents more choice and thus competition from which Comcast and Centuand education; former manager at ryLink would need to adjust. With limFiske Planetarium ited financial resources we must invest Political/community in our needs before we spend money experience: Board presion things we want. dent of the Growe Is there anything that can be done to Foundation make Boulder a more affordable place to Education: Degree in live? astronomy and astroWe cannot solve the housing crisis physics from the Unientirely, but we can start to limit the versity of Colorado negative impacts it’s having on our city. Do you believe Boulder We must create a wide array of housing should continue its effort to separate options that meet the needs of more from Xcel Energy and form a municipal residents from economically diverse electric utility? backgrounds. Truly permanent affordAfter seven years of exploring the path to municipalization, we now know able housing is the most important a great deal more about what it takes to long-term goal. Without a mechanism to keep the affordable units we have in municipalize and how expensive and complicated it is. New information and the inventory, we risk having to build in perpetuity to reach our goals. Tradidata compels us to seek new conclutional one- to two-bedroom apartments sions. With that comes substantive don’t meet the needs of a family of four. information with which to evaluate We also must look to more effective municipalization, how it fits into our climate goals and the rest of what Boul- and efficient land-use and zoning der aims to achieve in the coming years throughout the city to facilitate space for more affordable middle-income and decades. All of this compels me to no longer support our efforts to create homes. There are many ways to incentivize developers to contribute to our a municipal utility. It’s time for us to community goals and I will work to reset our strategy in reaching our clilead our council with an evidence-based mate goals. approach. Fostering opportunities for How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s people to move up the economic ladder in Boulder is the hallmark of an inclupursuit of a citywide broadband netsive and progressive community. work?
Matt Benjamin
Eric Budd Website: electericbudd.org Age: 36 Family: Parents and two younger siblings in Missouri How long in Boulder: 7 years Neighborhood: Newlands Professional background: Software project management professional Political/community experience: Chair of Boulder Landmarks Board, Community Cycles Advocacy Committee, Boulder Community Housing Association Advocacy Committee Education: B.A. in economics from Rockhurst University Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? No. I have and continue to support municipalization’s goals, most importantly to reach 100 percent renewable energy by 2030. However, the recent Public Utilities Commission ruling has made Boulder’s path more difficult and expensive, with the earliest cut-over date of 2022 or later. At the same time, Xcel’s recent proposal to move to 55 percent renewable by 2026 is a big step in the right direction. I believe that the economics and legal system have shown us that taking a different path to get to 100 percent renewable may be less risky and less expensive than creating a municipal electric utility. How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network?
City owned and privately operated. We need to protect the free flow of information on the internet and not allow third parties to give preference to certain data use over others, particularly with the risk of losing net neutrality at the federal level. I strongly support providing equitable access for people across the city while ensuring cost-competitive internet access. I believe the city-owned and privately operated option has the best chance to meet the city’s goals while reducing costs of operating the system. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? Boulder’s housing policies worsen inequality and hollow out the middle class. Our current direction promotes exclusion of fixedincome seniors, families, young people, minorities, and those with low incomes. Any city willing to perpetuate generational, social, and racial inequality has a fundamental moral failing—we need to aggressively address the problem. Our subsidized permanently affordable housing program needs continued support, and I want to push for middle-income solutions like duplexes, townhomes, and building more housing on transportation corridors. Our civil ser vants like police, teachers, and firefighters are increasingly priced out of the city. Boulder’s problems are moral, not technical, and I want to make real progress. I recognize that our community has significant divisions in how to move for ward, and I will compromise to work together on solutions. I will not, however, compromise on the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion in our city.
Elect
SUSAN
SPEECE
WARD 4 BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL Leadership-Experience-Reasoned Supported by Republicans & Democrats
PROVEN HISTORY OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
Health, Safety, Fiscal Vitality, Communication, Transportation
Let’s take partisanship out of City Council www.speece4broomfield.com Paid for by Speece4Broomfield
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BOULDER CITY COUNCIL
Jan Burton Website: janforboulder.com Age: 61 Family: Parents, sister, mother-in-law, two daughters, two grandkids How long in Boulder: 8 years Neighborhood: University Hill Professional background: Co-founder of Rhino Cubed, a company building tiny artistic homes from shipping containers; 30 years as an executive in high-tech companies including Apple, IBM, Lucent, Symbol, Avaya Political/community experience: Two years on Boulder City Council, volunteer for Boulder OSMP Raptor Monitoring program, former Colorado Music Festival
Mary Young Website: youngforcouncil.org Age: 61 Family: Yes How long in Boulder: 35 years Neighborhood: Old North Boulder Professional background: Design engineering Political/community experience: City Council member since 2013, previously a Boulder Planning Board member for four years Education: B.A. from University of Colorado, B.S. from University of Texas-El Paso and M.S. from University of California, Berkeley Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? I support Ballot items L, O and P. The municipal electric utility project is everything to our ability to achieve our Climate Commitment (100 percent clean energy by 2030, 80 percent emissions reduction by 2050), and to increase the resilience of our grid. The outcome of these ballot initiatives will provide council with up-to-date direction. I will support continuing to explore our municipal utility if our community votes to do so. If not, I will support a strong, forceful and collaborative effort at the state level. Because folks, this is not about saving the planet (it has already survived five extinctions); it is about saving ourselves. How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s
board member, former eTown board member, CU College of Music Board member. Education: B.S. in business, with a minor in French, from Kansas State University Do you believe Boulder should continue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy and form a municipal electric utility? No. We have spent more than $15 million in legal, staff and consulting fees and have gotten no mandate from the PUC to move forward. Worse, we have spent seven years with no reduction in GHG. The community will vote on a $16.5 million ballot measure to extend the Utility Occupation tax. If it passes, we’ll continue our legal battles with Xcel, which will only get us to a “yes or no” decision, likely in 2020. This will put our financial reserves at risk, due to spending the money in advance of the pursuit of a citywide broadband network? In 2014, the community resoundingly approved a ballot measure exempting the city from Colorado Senate Bill 05152, thus freeing the city from state limitations on telecommunications services. In July 2017, city staff reported that a public-private partnership would (in a redefinition of the digital divide) not yield a drop in price but rather an increase in speed at today’s price and add a mandatory low-income “cheaper,” slower service. Private investment will only take care of private investment. Public interest is last on their list, if at all. The ballot initiative’s passage by 84 percent indicates a mandate for community based service and not for exchanging one corporate service for another. I believe our community’s priority is for a community broadband network to serve the community at large. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? Yes. I would make the root cause of housing demand pay for that impact: raise the linkage fee for commercial development from $12 per square foot to $35 per square foot and use that money to preserve existing, more affordable housing. Middle-income people currently living in multi-family housing are seeing their buildings bought, razed and redeveloped simply to command higher rents, and lower- to moderate-income people living in mobile home parks are seeing lot of rents going up and up ... these current community members are my first priority. More market-rate housing will not address their plight, but intentional and strategic preservation of their currently affordable housing will.
UOT revenue. If we win our legal and regulatory battles, we’ll invest hundreds of millions of dollars to separate from Xcel, condemn their assets and pay for their stranded costs. Still, no more renewables till almost 2025 — if we’re successful! We don’t know the cost or how we would finance it, and I am not a risk-taker with public money. The other option is to stop municipalization. We can work with respected Boulder organizations like the Rocky Mountain Institute, Western Resource Management, other cities and the state of Colorado to develop a new strategy with Xcel that incorporates and can be modeled by other communities. How do you believe the City Council should proceed with regard to Boulder’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network? The city should facilitate a citywide broadband network, with a combined
solution of fiber optic cable to premises and advanced wireless connections, as technology, geography and need dictate. This will provide competition to the incumbent phone and cable providers, lowering costs and increasing speed and quality. The city should not build the network itself with tax dollars, but it should select one or more of the companies that are already building and operating broadband networks in similar communities. Is there anything that can be done to make Boulder a more affordable place to live? Yes. Allow more housing to be built with lower fees and process roadblocks, especially for affordable housing. Put more money into affordable housing and buy everything we can to make it permanently affordable. Recruit a low-cost grocery alternative (Aldi, for example). Look at how we can reduce property taxes for day care providers.
incentivize rooftop solar, microgrids, battery storage, more efficient monitoring & distribution technologies, and move more quickly toward electrification of our homes and cars. Website: jillforcitycouncil.com How do you believe the City Council Age: 36 should proceed with regard to BoulFamily: Two sons, Ryder (13) and der’s pursuit of a citywide broadband Treker ( 3) network? How long in Boulder: 11 years I support a citywide broadband netNeighborhood: Chautauqua Professional background: Currently work and agree with the Council decision that the best path forward is a a residential real estate broker for public-private partnership rather than RE/MAX; previously: director of the City taking this on themselves. admissions and civics teacher at The City is currently in conversation Watershed School; with a few companies and I support manager and sommelicontinued conversation and negotiaer at The Kitchen tion to reach the best outcome for our Political/community community. In order to fund the porexperience: Boulder tion of the network that the City will Board of Zoning Adjustown, I would look toward a real estate ments member, Thistle tax. Broadband is an improvement to Communities board local real estate, so it makes the most member, New Era Colsense that a real estate tax would orado board member, Meals on serve as our funding mechanism. Wheels and Boulder Shelter for the Is there anything that can be done to Homeless volunteer, advocate for make Boulder a more affordable place mobile homeowners to live? Education: B.A. in political science Yes. 1. Seek opportunities for zonfrom College of William and Mary ing overlays in industrial & commercial areas in exchange for affordable Do you believe Boulder should conhousing on top of existing spaces tinue its effort to separate from Xcel without a net loss of the industrial or Energy and form a municipal electric commercial space. 2. Relax select regutility? ulations in RL-1 neighborhoods to Yes. Boulder citizens have voted allow homeowners to have more flexifour times to explore forming our own bility on their own land. (ie. Allow municipal electric utility and we are opportunity to build ADUs (”Granny closer now than ever to that option Flats”) or add a tiny home on extra becoming a reality. Our goal as a com- large lots) 3. Incentivize affordable munity is to achieve 80 percent reduc- housing through expedited review tion of carbon emissions by 2050, processes & reduced development which will require greater nimbleness fees for affordable units. 4. Explore & flexibility than we have with our community land trusts and other current provider. Being in control of mechanisms to separate land and our energy future will allow us to improvements.
Jill Adler Grano
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 11
BOULDER CITY COUNCIL mented that many large broadband providers such as Comcast score poorly in many categories, including value and customer service. Conversely, CR Website: nagleforcouncil.org found that the city of Chattanooga, Age: 34 Family: Dad, Bruce Nagle; mom, Kar- Tenn., municipal broadband has the nation’s fastest internet. Their service en Kuk-Nagle; husband, Luke Poss is highly reliable, and Chattanooga How long in Boulder: Entire life, with charges just $57.99 per month for 100 brief time away mbps service, or $69.99 per month for Neighborhood: Gunbarrel gigabit service. This bodes very well Professional background: Finance and for the city of Boulder. Cities will need marketing for Crocs, graduate gemolo- fiber to be competitive and survive in gist, diamond grader, the 21st century. There’s talk of a Boulcustom jewelry designder public-private partnership for er, marketing manager broadband. But such arrangements Political/community typically benefit the private entity more experience: Close Up than the public. Washington, BoCo Is there anything that can be done to Democrats, Young make Boulder a more affordable place to Democrats, volunteer live? firefighter/first Yes. First, we should pursue real responder, Prairie Protection Colorado, solutions. Simply building more, withUnited Paws Rescue out specific controls, may just produce Education: B.S. in business adminismore high-priced housing. We should tration from CU’s Leeds School of Busi- preserve housing that is affordable. We ness should require that most new housing Do you believe Boulder should contin- that’s built be affordable. Our biggest ue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy deficit is housing that’s affordable to and form a municipal electric utility? lower- and middle-income residents. On Dec. 7, 2016, Boulder formally We should convert commercial- and adopted a Climate Commitment of 100 industrial-zoned land to mixed-use/ percent renewable electricity by 2030. affordable housing. The city should Boulder’s municipal utility is designed require community benefit in the form to achieve that. Xcel’s plan is 55 percent of substantial permanently affordable renewable electricity by 2030. I support housing when granting building devela municipal utility, in order for Boulder opers variances for height, and floor to fulfill its Climate Commitment goal. area, increases. We should require that This November, voters will vote on new commercial growth, which creates three measures related to the muni. If the need for more affordable housing, Boulder voters no longer support a adequately funds affordable housing. A muni, as they previously did, I’ll recog- city-hired consultant found that the nize that “The people have spoken” and real, adjusted costs to the city, in terms I’ll respect the will of the voters. of affordable housing, are $70 for every How do you believe the City Council new square foot of commercial office should proceed with regard to Boulder’s buildings. Yet the city only charges pursuit of a citywide broadband netcommercial developers $12 per square work? foot for affordable housing. This should Consumer Reports recently docube increased.
Mirabai Nagle
12 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
their solar system to their neighbors. Perverse incentives that cause private utilities to oppose widespread behind-the-meter energy generation Website: sam4council.org and storage would disappear. Creating a municipal electrical system Age: 51 Family: Married, brother, 12 nieces would be a great benefit to future Boulder generations. and nephews How do you believe the City Council How long in Boulder: nine years should proceed with regard to BoulNeighborhood: Whittier der’s pursuit of a citywide broadband Professional background: CEO of network? Cool Energy, trained optical engiBoulder should continue to neer, named on 26 explore the possibility of a public-priissued U.S. patents vate partnership for a municipal Political/community broadband utility, while also continuexperience: Boulder ing to pursue a municipal electric City Council member utility. Successful public broadband (2013-2017); Boulder utilities like those in Chattanooga, Planning Board memTenn., and Longmont have leveraged ber (2012-2013); Sugboth the cash flow and the infrastrucarloaf Fire Departture of their public electric utilities. If ment volunteer and chief (1991Boulder does enter a public-private 2007); board member of Colorado partnership, the city should split Solar Energy Industries Association; ownership with the private entity. board member of Clean Energy Boulder should own either the core Action, board member of Colorado fiber backbone, or the runs to the Clean Energy Development Authori- home. In the event that the private ty entity should choose to sell to a difEducation: B.S. in engineering and ferent private entity, Boulder should applied science from the California have the first right of refusal to purInstitute of Technology chase the private half of the broadDo you believe Boulder should con- band system. tinue its effort to separate from Xcel Is there anything that can be done Energy and form a municipal electric to make Boulder a more affordable utility? place to live? Yes. The Public Utilities CommisYes. The fee on commercial develsion recently provided a viable proopment to fund affordable housing cess to separate Boulder’s grid sysshould be increased substantially, tem from Xcel’s. The choice bringing in funding for building regarding separation from Xcel is a affordable housing and reducing the generational decision on par with incentive to build commercial develprevious landmark Boulder initiaopment over residential. Along with tives such as setting growth boundar- the coming increase in middle-inies, creating our open space system, come affordable housing required by establishing the Pearl Street Mall our inclusionary housing ordinance, and limiting building heights. we should add a down-payment assisBecause of the way electricity is reg- tance program targeted at middle-inulated in Colorado, being a part of come home ownership. This prothe Xcel system greatly limits what gram would be “evergreen,” as the choices are available. With a muni, down-payment loans would only existing limits to the deployment of come due when the home is sold, but customer-sited solar and storage in exchange for the loan the home could be removed, and local busiwould become permanently affordnesses could sell excess energy from able.
Sam Weaver
BOULDER CITY COUNCIL election, I will take into account the vote of Boulder residents in decisions regarding Boulder’s future muni-related actions. How do you believe the City Council Website: johngerstleforboulder.com should proceed with regard to Boulder’s Age: 65 pursuit of a citywide broadband netFamily: Wife, Heidi; son, Nicholas; work? daughter, Pia; dog, Dasho It is reasonable to consider combinHow long in Boulder: Resident since ing a citywide broadband network with birth, with periods away for work, Boulder’s future electric power delivstudies ery infrastructure, whether that occurs Neighborhood: Silver Lake Orchard as continued Xcel service, municipalProfessional background: Consulting ization or some other arrangement. engineer on water, natural resources Due to the importance of establishing a and environmental mancitywide broadband network for priagement vate, commercial, industrial, scientific, Political/community educational and public purposes, I experience: Member/ believe that an expert, systematic and chairman, Boulder Planimpartial review of Boulder’s options ning Board; chairman, should be done to enable proper and Boulder County Planinformed decisions to be made. ning Commission; Is there anything that can be done to member, Boulder Counmake Boulder a more affordable place to ty Mosquito Control Advisory Board; live? candidate, Boulder City Council; forBoulder should become more active mer general adviser to Royal Governin establishing and conserving existing ment of Bhutan lower- and middle-income affordable Education: Boulder High School; B.A. housing with the use of urban land and in chemistry, University of Colorado, housing conservancies and other instiM.S.C.E. and postgraduate civil engitutions, and by moving ahead with the neering degree from the Massachuuse of deed-restricted housing arrangesetts Institute of Technology ments. The funding necessary for such Do you believe Boulder should contin- activities could come from increased ue its effort to separate from Xcel Energy commercial building development linkand form a municipal electric utility? age fees, and from fees associated with I believe that Boulder can most effec- real estate transactions and developtively consider alternative means of ment. achieving its climate-related goals if we Boulder should also review its policontinue with the analysis currently cies aimed at attracting new employunderway. I know, from professional ment to the city, which is clearly linked experience in dealing with similar mat- to increased housing demand — resultters, how complicated such decisions ing in higher housing costs. Improveare, and how much depends on getting ments to our public transit system the details right. I therefore support (including a communitywide EcoPass the ballot issues in this election and ensuring that EcoPasses are proaddressing Boulder’s muni-related con- vided to all nonresident Boulder siderations. employees by employers) would also I do, however, respect the voice of help to improve commuting from Boulder’s citizens. Previous election neighboring towns and county locaresults supported the evaluation of tions, thus diminishing the demand for municipalization options, which is now local housing in Boulder as well as easunderway. If that support changes, and ing the associated traffic loads on our the muni-related ballot issues fail in this limited street and road facilities.
John Gerstle
der’s pursuit of a citywide broadband network? The city should prepare an RFP for a public/private partnership proposal, open to competitive bids, Website: byrneforcouncil.com through which the city owns the Age: 63 conduit and installs the broadband Family: Wife, Anne; children infrastructure, and operations are Conor (30), Erin (26), Kathleen managed by the winning private (23) sector service provider pursuant to How long in Boulder: 36 years Neighborhood: North Wonderland a 10- or two-year lease agreement. Is there anything that can be done Professional background: Boulder to make Boulder a more affordable assistant city attorney, director of place to live? operations for Colorado Ski CounBoulder does not need to build try USA, land-use any new housing units that do not attorney/mediator appeal directly to our in-commutPolitical/community ers. Land costs drive affordability experience: Daily in Boulder. We need a Community Camera Editorial Land Trust and it should provide Advisory Board tax and personal incentives to con(2007-17); co-chair, tribute not just land, but existing North Boulder Subhomes into the trust. community Plan; Our current inclusionary houschair, Boulder Chamber Community Affairs Council; chair, Downtown ing residential and non-residential requirements and cash-in-lieu (CIL) Boulder Partnership Public Policy Committee; member of U.S. 36 and fees are close to what Boulder’s current real estate market can bear. Regional Transportation task forcCIL works because it benefits from es Education: B.A. in economics from a multiplier effect created by the state and federal housing subsidies Notre Dame, J.D., from George Washington University Law Center and tax incentives they attract. Do you believe Boulder should con- Where such subsidies and incentives fall short is with the developtinue its effort to separate from Xcel ment of middle-income housing, Energy and form a municipal electric Boulder’s greatest housing chalutility? No. The game was/is rigged. Pull lenge today. ADUs (accessory dwelling units) the plug. Let’s start saving electrons and stop wasting money. Sad, should be permitted more widely with fewer restrictions. We need but true. The path may be “clear,” but I don’t believe we can get there one set of rules that permit accessory units to be located within a from here any time soon — the principal structure or an accessory condemnation and separation batstructure in all of Boulder’s resitles could be tied up in the courts dential zone districts. for years and all the legislative Fifty percent of our housing hoops and hurdles, along with the stock in Boulder is rental today. PUC’s broad discretion, tilt these Home ownership is the most tables against Boulder. Boulder should re-purpose the money being important wealth-building option spent on the muni effort to squeeze for most people. For this and other reasons, regional transportation/ every joule of energy out of the electrons and natural gas Xcel sells housing solutions must urgently be explored. Boulder cannot meet this to us, so we can kick the habit. How do you believe the City Council challenge alone or within our existing city limits. should proceed with regard to Boul-
Ed Byrne
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 13
LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCIL every level of government Education: B.A. in accounting, masters in environmental economics and policy from Duke University Website: jamieharkins.com What is your philosophy regarding Age: 37 development and growth? How should Family: My father and sister live close Lafayette balance growth while mainby, my mother and girlfriend here in taining its small town feel? Furthermore, Lafayette how should the city preserve its diversity How long have you lived in Lafayette: amid an affordable housing crisis? Two years I believe we must be strategic and Professional background: Currently a intentional in managing growth, and Sustainability Coordinathink the important question is, how do tor for the city of Boulwe shape the growth that will inevitably der, managing pilot projhappen? We must take a critical look at ects, policy new developments to ensure they condevelopment and plantribute positively to the community and ning efforts around cliuse good design to maintain our town’s mate change character. Retaining (and celebrating) Political/community our diversity is one of my absolute top experience: Current Lafayette Urban priorities, and we must be creative Renewal Commissioner, Board Memabout pursuing a wide range of attainber at New Era Colorado, former Boul- able housing options for all ages, der County Cultural Council, advocate income levels and needs within our city. on numerous progressive causes at I look forward to exploring innovative
Jamie Harkins
Andrew J. O’Connor Website: N.A. Age: N.A. Family: Married for more than 10 years to Mary with 9-year-old daughter, Teagan, 19-year-old stepson, Griffen How long have you lived in Lafayette: More than 10 years. Professional background: Worked as an assistant public defender and drug court attorney in Santa Fe, N.M., and Tampa, Fla. Worked in law firms in Denver Political/community experience: Sponsor of Ballot Initiative for Severance Tax on Oil and Gas. Education: Vanderbilt University, Florida State University, received B.A., J.D. What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? Lafayette is approaching build-out, and development and growth must be strictly regulated. Developers must be made to pay their fair share and pay for the increased burden on infrastructure as well as affordable housing. The city may have to say no
to developers in order to preserve the quality of life. Developers are similar to oil and gas in that they put profits over people and do not care about negative impacts on the community. Lafayette must be inclusive economically, culturally and racially. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? Fracking poses an existential threat and cannot be allowed within city limits. The job of the City Council is to protect the safety, health and welfare of the community; consequently, regulations including, but not limited to: significant setback requirements; mapping of all oil and gas pipelines must be public record; noise, light and odor ordinances; $1 million bond requirements per well and insurance requirements for cleanup and disaster mitigation. City attorney must counter sue oil and gas, file for injunctive relief in federal court and push back against state preemption, which undermines local democracy. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? Yes, continue funding for purchase of open space. Continue legacy tax and explore other funding options.
14 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
options such as ADUs and tiny homes, as well as pursuing ways to stabilize and improve our mobile home communities. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? I stand strongly opposed to fracking in all of our communities. If elected, I will do everything possible to halt this destructive industrial practice from occurring in Lafayette. I will pursue any and all actionable strategies — legal, regulatory, community organizing and political — that I feel will stand a chance of succeeding and will be ready from day one to collaborate with elected officials, staff members of other jurisdictions and the community to explore and pursue these strategies. I also support defending Lafayette’s existing Climate Bill of Rights in court. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protect-
Cliff Smedley Website: Facebook.com/SmedleyForCouncil Age: 56 Family: Two children; a son and daughter How long have you lived in Lafayette: Since 2006 Professional background: Retired IT professional contracted to companies such as IBM and First Data Political/community experience: Active in the Boulder County Democrats, currently serving as Resolutions Team Chair. Very active in Lafayette. Was originator and organizer for local Initiative 301, which passed but was superceded by another initiative. Ran twice before for council. Education: B.A. in government/ minor in public administration What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its
ing its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? I treasure open space and believe it plays an important equity role in ensuring that all members of our community have access to nature. As we move forward, I agree with the current PROST Master Plan that opportunities will shift toward filling out some of the missing links in the current system, including connecting existing trail corridors. I’m excited about these possibilities to further improve our system, and while the legacy tax itself may not be enough for future larger opportunities, the ballot measure this year extending it in perpetuity will give us the ability to bond against future tax revenue. I am also interested in exploring other creative funding methods, such as impact fees from new developments, encouraging conservation easements and pursuing joint investments with neighboring communities.
diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? The Livable Lafayette Task Force produced a very nice report about this and I would support those recommendations as a start. I would add some ideas such as cooperative housing and tiny homes. I would have a more aggressive timeline for accomplishing the goals. For example, the proposed for-profit senior housing project ought to be diverted to affordable housing space. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? An editorial in the Daily Camera recommends several actions including a moratorium until the Martinez court case is resolved. I would advocate for the recommendations in that editorial and for civil disobedience if that isn’t successful. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? Yes, I am satisfied that the Legacy Tax should be sufficient.
LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCIL
Gustavo Reyna Website: N.A. Age: 50 Family: Wife, Colette, and daughters Gabriela (14) and Lorena (25) How long have you lived in Lafayette: 10 years Professional background: International Marketing, Internet of Things at Intel Political/community experience: Current mayor pro-tem of Lafayette, chair of the Latino Advisory Board, various nonprofit boards, community champion for Communities That Care, creator of the Lafayette Peer Empowerment Project Education: M,S, MIS University of Denver; B.A. Communications University of Maryland. Multilanguage speaker with
multicultural experience. What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small-town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? I support updating the comprehensive plan to delineate the target limit for additional residential growth. Renew the existing growth management plan, which restricts residential growth to 1,200 residential permits for six years. Establish exemptions in the growth management plan for permanently affordable housing, in order to incentivize affordable housing and ensure that working people can afford to live here. In terms of small-town character, leverage urban development initiatives to attract locally owned small businesses the walkable commercial corridors of Old Town. I supported the ordinance that updated the design criteria for Old Town, which defined some limitations to the
neighbors are sick. Our beautiful town is not an industrial site — this is our neighborhood and our playground. These companies are using outdated laws to prey on us, and it’s not right. Website: N.A. This has to be a multi-pronged Age: 43 Family: Happy husband and father of approach. I’d sooner open our open space up to camping before we open it two children, 1 and 3. up to drilling. If we have to fight to How long have you lived in Lafayette: change the state constitution, so be it. 16 years Expensive as it may be, it is the only Professional background: IT Infraway to keep drilling out of our commustructure and Network nities once and for all. Our health is in Security jeopardy and you can not put a price on Political/community that. If you believe in states rights, you experience: N.A. must also believe in local rights as well. Education: Clemson Policy starts at the local level, and no University, University matter what it takes, we will not allow of Colorado this now that we have populated the What is your philosoarea. The city needs to do everything phy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette in its framework it can, to stop this. From lawsuits to passing an un-watered balance growth while maintaining its down Citizens Bill of Rights, the city small town feel? Furthermore, how needs to do whatever it can to allow the should the city preserve its diversity peoples voices to be heard. We will amid an affordable housing crisis? need a concerted effort outside of this Growth doesn’t have to be a bad legal framework to do what the city word. Managing growth so that it isn’t sprawl is the key. Diversity is the key to cannot do. Open space has long been one of sustainability. Protecting our at-risk Lafayette’s most salient tools for protectpopulations is important for diversity. This means protecting our aging popu- ing its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space lation, as well as educating the up-andcoming crew and everyone in between. acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? Drilling appears to be headed for I would never want to take any Lafayette. How should the city approach options off of the table for funding, but the issue of oil and gas development a legacy tax is one way to go. It will be moving forward? We cannot allow drilling in our neigh- very important to keep the funds solvent so that we can protect what we borhoods and next to our schools. have. I want to make sure that in the There is nothing healthy about this. I don’t need a study to tell me I can’t see future, we protect this open space from the pressures of development. the night sky anymore and that our
Mike Daniels
mass, scale and lot coverage for residential units. The primary concern was to prevent massive new homes and preserve the unique and eclectic character of Old Town. My primary goals were to prevent speculative development that would accelerate gentrification of the area, maintain the uniqueness and relative affordability of the area, and preserve the diverse social fabric of our working population. The city also made a significant land purchase to develop a permanently affordable housing project in collaboration with Boulder County. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? The paperwork in the COGCC permitting process is for oil and gas exploitation in two areas of Boulder County, one adjacent to Lafayette. The city has moved to establish a moratorium in order to update its special-use permit process, seek legal expertise to establish strict requirements and define oth-
er legal options. It also expects to pass an ordinance requiring the location and mapping of flow lines and transmission lines and increase setback requirements. The recent upholding of the Martinez v. COGCC case is also bringing light to the ability of residents to establish new rules that address our health and safety concerns. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? The purchase of the Mayhoffer property for open space was a great victory and Lafayette intends to increase land acquisitions for open-space buffers. Open-space acquisition is funded by local sales tax and a legacy tax. The city will ask voters to extend the legacy tax permanently to generate a permanent revenue source to finance the acquisition of available parcels of open space.
I am a staunch advocate that we should not be shortsighted about having affordable housing in our community without a better understanding of the bigger picture. I think Website: N.A. there are many more discussions to Age: 50 determine the best course of action Family: Wife, Renee; three chilour city should look into before makdren, Jay, 24; Arianna, 22; and Mira, ing that decision. 18 Drilling appears to be headed for How long have you lived in LafayLafayette. How should the city ette: 10 years approach the issue of oil and gas Professional backdevelopment moving forward? ground: Licensed Fracking: I am against it. It does health and life insurnothing to enhance the value of our ance broker city and it is a shortsighted proposiPolitical/community tion that has dire circumstances. One experience: Member only needs to look to Oklahoma as to of my church vestry why we should stop it at all costs. at St. Ambrose in Open space has long been one of Boulder; volunteer at Lafayette’s most salient tools for proHabitat for Humanity and Boulder tecting its boundaries. How should the homeless shelter Education: B.S. in history and edu- city continue to fund future open cation from Missouri State University space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needWhat is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should ed? I do believe the city should continLafayette balance growth while mainue the Legacy Tax. I feel we should taining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its look into other methods of protecting open space for the sake of future gendiversity amid an affordable housing crisis? erations.
John Watson
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 15
LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCIL
Dana Kusjanovic Website: electdanak.org Age: 51 Family: N.A. How long have you lived in Lafayette: 12 years Professional background: University of Colorado: assistant director customer service, marketing, outreach; University of Northern Colorado head soccer coach and director of licensing; Boulderwear Silkscreening and Design, owner Political/community experience: Lafayette Planning Commissioner; Sister Carmen; recreational soccer coach; CU Staff Council Parliamentarian Education: B.A. communication, M.A.
Allen Bishop Website: voteallenbishop.org Age: 66 Family: wife, Cindy Bishop, sons Adam, Marc and Michael How long have you lived in Lafayette: 21 Years Professional background: A USAF veteran. I founded three successful companies; ASI, VisionTEK, and Reference Technologies. I am a professional pilot and master diver. Political/community experience: A member of the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office as a reserve volunteer assigned to the agency’s SWAT Technical Team. I am a member of the Boulder Emergency Squad as a FAA Certified UAV pilot. I have been a longtime contributor to STEM programs. Education: Aviation and Electrical Engineering What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? These are key elements facing
administration What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? Development encourages growth and growth encourages development, both of which we need to maintain the Lafayette we’ve come to know and love. Housing permit fees, one-time fees, will not sustain essential city services. Commercial tax dollars are needed. We have protected commercial and residential zones, which let us maintain small-town charm and maintain our police, fire, roads, sewers, library, parks, art and culture, etc. We need both to flourish. Maintaining our 2 to 3 percent annual growth rate with effective zoning is crucial. The city needs to continue participation in the national programs that reimburse 40 percent of housing costs for true affordable housing projects. PlanLafayette and require the informed voter to fully understand this candidates position and vision. Please visit voteallenbishop.org for a detailed discussion on the following topics. Managed Growth (Traffic – Business Development – Planning) Community (Inclusiveness – Equality – Opportunity – Safety) Stewardship (Sustainability – Infrastructure – Services) Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? This is a significant issue and cannot be adequately addressed in the allotted word count. I strongly urge the reader to view my position on fracking at voteallenbishop.org. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? Open space serves three key purposes; preservation of unobstructed views, defense against high density development and with the purchase of mineral rights we ensure a fracking-free boundary. Legacy taxes and a combination of grants and endowments will serve to address the few remaining parcels available for acquisition.
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ning commission just approved a 260unit development and 500 more units are slated soon. We need more attainable housing. I proposed code changes that accessory dwelling units be increased in size from 750 square feet to 1,500, by allowing basements, and that ADUs (only permitted in Old Town) be expanded to other residential zones. This was not approved by the City Council. The ADU code expansion is a no-cost way for the city to effectively provide attainable housing. The city would make money on the permit fees, allow families to grow in place and senior’s to age near family. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? We need a unified front against fracking. I propose an ad-hoc City Council subcommittee to research this issue and report findings to council monthly.
Merrily Mazza Website: facebook.com/ Merrily4Lafayette/ Age: 71 Family: Two married sons and three grandchildren How long have you lived in Lafayette: Five years Professional background: Retired from a 32-year career in educational publishing. Vice president, McGrawHill. Political/community experience: Four years on Lafayette city council, president Colorado Community Rights Network, founder East Boulder County United. I have been an activist on the fracking issue for 5 years. Education: B.A., University of Illinois-Chicago; MBA DePaul University, Chicago What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? Lafayette residents have passed growth restrictions every five to six years. I support the extension that will be on the upcoming ballot. I commend the Urban Renewal Authority for preserving and enhancing Public Road to the eclectic destination it now is. I support the collaborative efforts of city commissions, council and the Boulder County Housing Authority in adding multiple units of affordable housing on our eastern border. Going forward, to preserve affordability, we will need to support ADUs (accessory dwelling units) and mobile homes as housing
Creative measures should be looked at, including examining how New York successfully banned fracking, limiting access to water, the consideration of building outdoor sports/soccer fields to act as a buffer zone to housing neighborhoods and working with neighboring cities, counties and the state to make effective and lawful changes in legislation. Lafayette attendance at the Boulder County Consortium of Cities would have been a good start. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? Lafayette has been deliberately increasing open space. I favor this because it creates a buffer zone between cities eliminating sprawl, provides wildlife space and can be used for solar collection. The tax has been very effective; why change a good thing? options. That said, I’m deeply concerned that our lovely city will become an oil and gas field, which will destroy all these efforts and kill our desirability for buyers. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? City-elected leaders must collaborate with activists to fight the oil and gas industry and not with the state and industry to fight activists. The laws were written to disenfranchise communities in support of industry profit. These laws are unjust and immoral. We cannot regulate toxic emissions and explosion risks to an “acceptable” level. We are fighting for our community against one of the most powerful industries in the world. We cannot rely on a council full of naive believers that the state legislature, a new governor or regulation will save us. The future of our city, and indeed all of eastern Boulder County, will depend on real fighters and activists. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? I support the extension of the legacy open space tax, which will be on this year’s ballot. That said, we are taxing ourselves to add more open space when we now know that the oil and gas industry can commandeer our land for massive well pads. Crestone Peak Resources did just that. The company plans to put massive well pads on four Boulder County open-space properties, including Wheeler Ranch, a property the county purchased last year for $8 million. So, we willingly tax ourselves for open-space properties and yet we can’t control what happens on them. This must be stopped.
NO ON 2L IS OUR MUNI OFF-RAMP.
Let’s take it.
In 2011, when the City of Boulder proposed municipalizing the Xcel Energy electric network, the city promised residents that there would be several “off-ramps,” chances to abandon the endeavor if things didn’t go as planned. They haven’t. Here’s what’s going on:
The city is still stuck before the Public Utilities Commission in the first step of a multi-stage litigation battle. When municipalization was before the voters in 2011, the city staff said that the utility would be up and running by 2017. Now, their most optimistic prediction is 2022. The city has spent $14 million in litigation against Xcel and others, with very little to show for it other than big lawyer bills and more city staff. In fact, the city has spent so much that the “Utility Occupation Tax” that was supposed to pay for the lawsuits didn’t cover it all, and $2 million more has been taken from the city’s General Fund, money that could have been used for things like police and fire protection and road maintenance. In this fall’s election, you are being asked to consider extending and increasing the Utility Occupation Tax, tripling it next year, so that the city can spend another $16.5 million on Muni litigation. That won’t get us clean energy. It will only prolong the fight. In the meantime, Xcel has presented a concrete plan that is projected to get the whole Xcel Colorado system to 55 percent renewables by 2026, and is collaborating with Denver and other Colorado cities to get them to 100 percent renewables by 2030. That’s real progress and we should join them.
By voting “No” on Ballot Issue 2L, we can end the fiscal irresponsibility and pave the way for meaningful environmental action. Let’s take the off-ramp.
For more information, visit NoOn2L.com Paid for by the No On 2L issue committee. Our reports on file with the Boulder City Clerk. ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 17
LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCIL
Jarrett Tishmack Website: tishmackforlafayette.com Age: 33 Family: Wife, Tania How long have you lived in Lafayette: Six years Professional background: I worked for the research division of the U.S. Forest Service for six years. I also spent two seasons as a wildland firefighter. More recently, I worked in environmental compliance at Ball Aerospace, and I’m currently working as a general contractor in residential home remodel. Political/community experience: I served two years on the Larimer County Environmental Advisory Board in Fort Collins
Brian Wong Website: wongforcouncil.com Age: 41 Family: Wife, Amy, and son, Kevin How long have you lived in Lafayette: 10 years Professional background: Human Resources Director with 17-plus years of experience Political/community experience: Seven years on Planning Commission, beginning fourth year as chairperson, Louisville Recycling Conservation Advisory Board, Big Brother Education: Attended the University of Colorado What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? Lafayette is close to reaching our urban growth boundary even though we have ensured responsibly managed growth up to this point. As chair of the Lafayette Planning Commission, I understand that Lafayette needs to grow at a rate that does not negatively impact infrastructure and that benefits our small businesses, which would ensure a strong tax base for community amenities. A 3 percent growth rate strikes the right balance between maintaining a beautiful, non-congested community and increasing our tax base. Our diversity comes in the form of attainable/affordable housing. In order to increase the diversity of housing, we need to take the following steps. First, amend zoning laws to allow accessory
Education: B.S. Forest Management CSU, 2005 What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? How should Lafayette balance growth while maintaining its small town feel? Furthermore, how should the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? Lafayette will inevitably experience some degree of population and housing growth in the coming years. The city already has several safeguards in place to manage growth, including a cap on building permits. It’s nearly a universal feeling in Lafayette that we don’t want unmitigated growth like our neighbors to the east. In reaction to this sentiment, however, I believe some elements of city leadership have been too extreme in adopting an almost “zero-growth” policy. As a result, there have been missed opportunities to permit smart growth that would aid in mitigating the shortage of affordable housing options. Although the city has been adequately dwelling units in all residential zones. Second, modify the Old Town regulations. As they stand, these regulations promote the gentrification of our community, and they force families to leave Lafayette because they cannot afford to expand their homes and meet the requirements. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? The primary role of a council member is to promote Lafayette’s values, and one of those values is to not permit fracking in our city. For our safety, I am resolutely against fracking in Lafayette. If elected, this is how I would work to keep fracking out of Lafayette: We should consider purchasing mineral rights via an eminent domain process. I would like to see local control of land-use regulations. Our approach must be thoughtful, smart and attainable. I believe there are solutions that could be explored that are cost effective and that would ensure fracking does not come within Lafayette’s boarders. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? Our community values open space and Lafayette must ensure that we continue to acquire open space. One of the first things Lafayette needs to do is to pass ballot measure 2A. This ballot measure would guarantee a revenue stream to the city for future open-space purchases. It would also demonstrate to banks that Lafayette would be at a low risk for a loan should we need to purchase a large parcel of open space. This would allow Lafayette to purchase larger pieces of land, which would add to our inventory of open space.
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proactive in creating income-qualified affordable housing, the missed component is to encourage a diverse mix of building types and uses as well as infill within existing neighborhoods. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development moving forward? The proximity of gas drilling to dense residential in Lafayette doesn’t make sense and is grossly unreasonable. We should resist fracking plans with the same fervor that we would for a mine tailings pond, a new landfill or a chemical plant on the edge of town. Fracking, by far, is the most imminent and critical of all matters facing our city this decade. Not surprisingly, there is a strong consensus that oil and gas extraction near our town is not a good fit. Near universal opposition, however, has not been fruitful in winning concessions from the industry. Other candidates have dodged this
issue by saying that the municipality has little control over state law, and thus it is not within the power of local government to block new well site development. This is a misjudgment of recent precedent from other locales that successfully fought the industry using legal avenues, which are available to Lafayette. Legal strategy, coupled with direct action, can effectively stall and interrupt these unwanted operations. Open space has long been one of Lafayette’s most salient tools for protecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be enough, or are other methods needed? I believe open-space acquisitions around Lafayette are not a luxury. The well-delineated boundaries of our town are what create the foundation of our identity. Therefore, I will leave open the possibility of supporting additional revenue streams to pay for open space if the Legacy Tax becomes inadequate.
access to sports and other city amenities. Drilling appears to be headed for Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development Website: richardforcouncil.com moving forward? Age: 52 I recommend appointing three comFamily: Wife, Holly, children Troy mittees of experts to take action and and Julie provide findings and recommendaHow long have you lived in Lafayette: tions. The Mineral Rights Acquisition 20 years Committee will report on the costs Professional background: Former required to purchase mineral rights. It IBMer; former owner, Christian Broth- will address funding options, including ers Automotive Lafayette financing, grants, bonds, business and Political/community experience: Vice industry sponsors and support from President, Trebol Socenvironmental advocacy organizations. cer Club; co-treasurer, The Local Legislative Control CommitDouglass Elementary tee will report on the costs to develop PTO; Lafayette Chamand defend legislation designed to ber Board Member; transfer control over oil and gas develCoal Creek Little opment from the state to Lafayette. It League baseball coach; must include marketing costs to counLafayette YMCA baster campaigns by CRED. The Mineral ketball coach Extraction Development Committee Education: B.B.A. will prepare a comprehensive oil and accounting, Georgia State University gas development plan should purchase What is your philosophy regarding options and legislative options fail. The development and growth? How should comprehensive plan would identify all Lafayette balance growth while mainlegally available guidelines and regulataining its small town feel? Furthertions we can place on developers, necmore, how should the city preserve its essary to protect the health and weldiversity amid an affordable housing fare of our citizens and our crisis? environment from oil and gas developI support Lafayette’s managed growth plan. In place for more than 20 ment’s impact and risks. Open space has long been one of years, it established Lafayette’s physical boundaries and growth rate. It pro- Lafayette’s most salient tools for provides for 3 percent annual growth, with tecting its boundaries. How should the city continue to fund future open space exceptions for affordable housing. acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be Since its inception, Lafayette has enough, or are other methods needed? grown responsibly, below the target The open space surrounding Lafayrate. And we should emphasize manette is the fundamental reason my wife aging traffic given our neighbors to the north, south and east have little or and I decided to move here. And I believe it continues to be a major asset no growth management plans. I believe income level is a form of diver- of our city. Lafayette must retain the ability to compete for open space as sity, and believe people of all income levels should have the opportunity to limited land becomes available. We’ve live in Lafayette. We should welcome done a good job securing our open affordable housing and work with local space buffers to the south and west. organizations and businesses to However, we still have work to do to ensure lower-income families have job obtain critical open space on our eastopportunities and their kids have ern and norther boarders.
Richard Welty
LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCIL by local citizens who are reliant on sustained revenue. We must preserve our historical buildings, foster diversity via the maintenance of community events and initiatives, and ensure our resiWebsite: jd4lafayette.com dents have access to affordable housAge: 22 ing and other essential services. I am in Family: Mother, father and sister favor of the growth cap but believe we How long have you lived in Lafayette: can fit all development well under the 3 My entire life percent limit and encourage voters to Professional background: Recent graduate from the University of Colora- research ballot initiative 2E. Drilling appears to be headed for do; completed internships for companies with their operations and technolo- Lafayette. How should the city approach the issue of oil and gas development gy teams moving forward? Political/community experience: VolThis is a significant impact that will unteering and working in Lafayette have real consequences for years to schools and for local come. I fundamentally oppose drilling nonprofits; current in Lafayette. In addition to honoring member of Lafayette’s Lafayette’s Climate Bill of Rights and Communities That Care Protections, it is critical that council Community Board; forand community members collaborate mer chair of the Lafayto not only ensure the public has ette Youth Advisory access to real-time and factual informaCommittee; influential tion, but also to identify common-sense in creating the Lafayette strategies to counter proposed oil and Skate Park and other youth-led civic gas development. Multiple strategies, engagement projects. including working with neighboring Education: Bachelor in Business communities, need to be identified and Administration with an emphasis in incorporated. We must continue to take information systems action and make this a priority. What is your philosophy regarding Open space has long been one of development and growth? How should Lafayette’s most salient tools for protectLafayette balance growth while maining its boundaries. How should the city taining its small town feel? Furthermore, continue to fund future open space how should the city preserve its diversity acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be amid an affordable housing crisis? enough, or are other methods needed? Building on the work of the Livable I am in full support of Lafayette’s Lafayette Task Force, Lafayette must existing legacy tax and open space grow in a smart way to ensure individu- acquisition plans, and encourage citials of all backgrounds have a home. We zens to vote “yes” on ballot initiative 2A. must promote growth in certain areas Given that open space is at a premium, like the Lafayette Tech Center while it must be preserved. In addition to also promoting foot traffic on Public maintaining Lafayette’s legacy tax, I would work closely with the Open Road to support our small businesses. People also need to be aware that fran- Space Advisory Committee to generate effective methods to ensure our boundchises, even those with the corporate name, are typically owned and operated aries are protected.
JD Mangat
for developments in which the plan restricts at least 40 percent of the total number of units as permanently affordable dwelling units. Website: chelseabehanna.org/ Regardless of the election results, I will continue to be an advocate for a Age: 48 pace of growth that our citizens deem Family: My daughter, Lacey, 24, is appropriate while ensuring that we are attending UCD studying music businot only bringing in a greater diversity ness and 10-year-old Josie is a fifthof housing options but also a balanced grader at Escuela Bilingue Pioneer. variety of sales-tax-revenue generating How long have you lived in Lafayette: businesses. We have lived in the Beacon Hill Drilling appears to be headed for neighborhood since 2001. Lafayette. How should the city approach Professional background: A public the issue of oil and gas development educator my entire career, I have moving forward? taught at the high school, middle In order to protect the health and school and college safety of our citizens we must take a levels. I am now the multipronged approach. That includes principal of a middle continuing to support the Climate Bill school in Thornton. of Rights, possibly enacting a moratoPolitical/community rium, engaging in a legal battle when experience: Lafayette the opportunity arrives and most cerCity Councilor for the tainly being active in support of past year changes to state level legislation. Education: Education Leadership Open space has long been one of Certification, University of Denver, Lafayette’s most salient tools for pro2006; M.A. in Instruction & Curricutecting its boundaries. How should the lum, University of Colorado, 1993; city continue to fund future open space B.A. in Sociology, acquisitions? Will a legacy tax be University of Colorado, 1991 enough, or are other methods needed? What is your philosophy regarding Lafayette’s open space areas are development and growth? How should such a point of pride for all of us fortuLafayette balance growth while mainnate enough to live here. Permanently taining its small town feel? Furtherextending the current Legacy Tax, more, how should the city preserve its without any tax rate increase, will diversity amid an affordable housing allow us to continue to acquire availcrisis? able open space in order to preserve We must respect our history and natural areas, set up conservation ensure livability while making our city easements, care for delicate ecosysappealing to the 2017 consumer and tems and limit urban noise and conwe are doing a great job of that — peo- gestion. Recently I was proud to vote ple love what Lafayette has to offer in favor of partnering with the city of and want to move here. Louisville and Boulder County to purIn order to maintain the sense of a chase the Mayhoffer property, in small town community, we are hoping order to preserve the nearly 170-acre to build on the 1995 Residential land parcel as open space for generaGrowth Management amendment to tions to come. Working to finalize this our charter which requires a system intergovernmental agreement is a to limit growth within city limits. In huge celebration on many levels and I order to address the housing crisis in anticipate we will seek partnerships Lafayette, we are asking voters to such as this to increase open space approve the addition of an exemption buffers around and trails.
Chelsea Behanna
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 19
LOUISVILLE CITY COUNCIL WARD 1
Chris Leh Website: LehForLouisville.com Age: 55 Family: Married to Natalie HanlonLeh. Two children: Madeline and Eleanor How long have you lived in Louisville: 24 years Professional background: Attorney Political/community experience: Member, Louisville City Council for Ward 1 (2014-date); Member, Louisville Planning Commission (2000-02); Trustee, Legal Aid Foundation of Colorado (2003-09); Co-Chair, Colorado Bar Association Labor & Employment Law Section (2000-02); Board Chair (2004-05), and Member, Blue Sky Bridge (2000-08); Board Member, Imagine Foundation Education: B.A., Princeton University, Woodrow Wilson School of Public & International Affairs; J.D., New York University School of Law What is your philosophy regarding development and growth? Furthermore, how can the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? Smart, well-planned but limited development and growth will help sustain our vibrant community while preserving our small-town feel. As to affordable housing, we’ve worked closely with Boulder County to establish Kestrel, a 200-unit affordable housing development that’s integrated into our community and includes permanently supportive housing and a set aside for seniors. We are collaborating with other communities to help alleviate the affordable housing crisis. How should Louisville continue to attract and maintain diverse businesses throughout the city, specifically along the McCaslin corridor and downtown? We must strive to be a city whose planning and regulatory framework is
welcoming to businesses considering locating here. Consistent with the needs of our residents, we should ensure that there is adequate parking for customers and employees who work downtown. We should continue to encourage development of the Centennial Valley office park to help drive demand for goods and services in businesses along McCaslin Boulevard. What do you think will be the most important issues Louisville will face over the next four years? How should the city address them? Streets — We’re addressing problems of deferred maintenance through an aggressive, cost-effective paving program that is substantially improving the quality of Louisville’s streets. Transportation and Traffic — We must work collaboratively with our neighbors and the state to better manage increased traffic resulting from rampant development along the I-25 corridor, encourage last-mile solutions to enable residents more easily to use mass transit, and push for additional regional and state resources for the northwest corridor from Denver to Boulder. Connectivity — We must continue to knit different parts of our city together by improving our trail system and by building planned underpasses and adding at least one more on South Boulder Road that will protect our schoolchildren, pedestrians, and cyclists and make Louisville more livable. Recreation and Senior Center and Memory Square — After the voters overwhelmingly approved the $28.6M bond issue last November, we’ve broken ground and look forward to completing the expansion and renovation of our 25-year-old Recreation & Senior Center and the improvements to our outdoor pool in Memory Square Park. Economic Sustainability — We largely rely on sales tax revenue to fund our city services. We must continue to be careful stewards of public dollars. We also must continue to attract and sustain businesses that can help support our community for the longer term.
Louisville Question 2G: High-speed internet authorization
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What it asks: Shall the City of Louisville be authorized to provide high-speed internet services (advanced services), telecommunications services, and/or cable television services to residents, businesses, schools, libraries, nonprofit entities and other users of such services, either directly or indirectly with public or private sector partners, as expressly permitted by Colorado Revised Statutes 29-27-101 to 304, “competition in utility and entertainment services,” without limiting its home rule authority? What it means: If approved, the measure would give city leaders the power to examine how a potential municipal broadband system would function, providing options between three forms of community broadband: municipal, public-private or fully private. What supporters say: The measure would allow the city to explore its own broadband internet service or partner with private businesses, and would also allow it to offer free internet service in libraries, parks and community centers. What opponents say: The measure would not guarantee the city would get its own broadband service or find a partership with a private company. Some might feel local governments should not compete with the private sector.
LOUISVILLE CITY COUNCIL WARD 2 development and growth? Furthermore, how can the city preserve its diversity amid an affordable housing crisis? It is critical for Louisville to maintain its “small town” character. That is what Website: N.A. has attracted many of us to Louisville. Age: 65 Our community character must be Family: Wife, Marguerite, and two maintained in spite of increased preschildren (Rachel and Jeffrey Adam) sures for growth and development. How long have you lived in Louisville: While maintaining our character, we 35 years must recognize that there will always Professional background: I have been be pressure to grow and develop. Loua CU Administrator for 42 years primar- isville should take advantage of highily involved in administrative services, value opportunities for development facilities management, and redevelopment, particularly for capital development, retail and commercial projects that can and real estate. help stabilize our tax base and keep our Political/community community financially sustainable. experience: Louisville Development should support our Planning Commission community’s environmental sustainand Louisville City ability goals and encourage in-fill Council opportunities that provide more housEducation: B.S. Busiing types to better support diversity of ness Administration (SUNY Plattsincome levels and generational needs. burgh); M.B.A. and M.S.-Finance (CU) Louisville should continue to work with What is your philosophy regarding regional partners to develop regional
Jeff Lipton
solutions to what are regional housing concerns. The city must be selective and deliberate in managing all forms of growth to preserve Louisville’s quality of life. How should Louisville continue to attract and maintain diverse businesses throughout the city, specifically along the McCaslin corridor and downtown? Most importantly, Louisville must be supportive of existing businesses that have already invested in the community as well as being welcoming and supportive to new businesses that want to locate to the city. Louisville should continue to invest in the physical infrastructure that supports commerce. The city’s tax structure should promote economic growth and not place businesses in a competitive disadvantage.Louisville should work with property owners to revitalize the McCaslin corridor through careful zoning and transportation decisions and be supportive in redevelopment of the vacant Sam’s
LOUISVILLE CITY COUNCIL WARD 3 ket rate of housing. There are opportunities to preserve the remaining affordable housing that we have in our city, which will require the financial resources that a healthy mix of land uses affords. Having a sustainable land use mix also Website: N.A. allows us to continue to do things as a commuAge: 33 nity like investing in our infrastructure, open Family: Husband, Brian Stolzmann space, and sustainable energy alternatives. How long have you lived in Louisville: We How should Louisville continue to attract and moved to Louisville in 2006 Professional background: Chemical Engineer- maintain diverse businesses throughout the city, specifically along the McCaslin corridor and ing, Product and Process Engineering downtown? Political/community experience: Louisville Our local government can maintain our infraWard III City Council Member 2013-present, structure, make licensing and permitting proCity of Louisville Finance Comcess predictable, avoid adding unreasonable mittee Chair, Denver Regional fees and taxes, and promote our city identity to Council of Governments Direcattract and maintain business. It is important tor, Denver Regional Council of that we do not add unnecessary obstacles to Governments Finance and Buddoing business in the city and we have worked get Committee Vice Chair, toward that by carefully assessing fees that offRegional Transportation Comset impacts, but nothing more. Last, it is impormittee Member 2016, City of tant that we provide adequate infrastructure Louisville Utility Rate Task and maintain what we have. Force member. What do you think will be the most important Education: Chemical Engineering Degree issues Louisville will face over the next four with Highest Scholastic Honors (1st in class) years? How should the city address them? from Colorado School of Mines Sustainability is the most important issue facWhat is your philosophy regarding development ing Louisville and the world. Locally we are and growth? Furthermore, how can the city preworking on expanding the amount of renewable serve its diversity amid an affordable housing energy we use and working to reduce the total crisis? amount of energy consumed. Additionally, there People love our city because of the smallare major changes coming for transportation town character. It is important to maintain our sustainability that cities must prepare for: i.e. identity and heart as we mature. This means autonomous vehicles. Among other things, this that we have to avoid the temptation of putting means we must start adding broadband capacihigh density residential units on every inch of ty to our rights of way so that vehicles and other vacant or underutilized space and instead look devices will have better and faster access to the at the land use mix that is needed to provide sufficient revenue to operate our town. Housing internet. Last, maintaining our small-town feel with neighbors helping neighbors is something affordability is a Front Range issue that we to be mindful about, cherish and work to foster need to work regionally to solve. If we attempt in our hometown. to take this on in an isolated fashion, we could quickly exceed the carrying capacity of our area and have minimal or no impact on the mar-
Ashley Stolzmann
Club area to make McCaslin as successful as our Downtown. Additional attention and focus should be given to mixed-use development as well as helping solve our “first mile-last mile” challenges so that we and businesses can fully benefit from the new McCaslin interchange and bus rapid transit investments. What do you think will be the most important issues Louisville will face over the next four years? How should the city address them? Louisville will continue to feel the pressures of increased regional economic expansion and population growth. We must make good land-use and investment decisions which will enable Louisville to maintain its “brand” and promote the high quality of life which makes the city special. However, Louisville also needs to be forward thinking and responsive to change, as it has over the past several decades..
Louisville Issue 2F: Historic preservation sales tax extension What it asks: Shall city of Louisville taxes be increased $550,000 in 2019 and then annually by whatever additional amounts are raised thereafter from the continuation of the city’s historic preservation sales tax of 0.125 percent beginning January 1, 2019 and expiring ten years after such date; with the net proceeds of such sales tax, along with the net proceeds of a 0.125 percent rate of use tax, to be collected, retained and spent for historic preservation purposes consistent with ballot issue 2a, approved at the November 4, 2008 election; and, additionally, commencing in 2019, shall the city also be authorized to (1) expend any funds from the 0.125 percent rate of sales and use tax in the historic preservation fund, including existing fund balance, in any area within the boundaries of the city, as existing from time to time, rather than solely within historic old town Louisville, provided that any expenditure outside historic old town Louisville is approved by the affirmative vote of not less than five members of the entire city council, and (2) expend, on an annual fiscal year basis an amount not to exceed 20% of the net proceeds of such 0.125 percent rate of sales and use tax for operating and maintaining the Louisville museum campus; all as further set forth in ordinance no. 1743, series 2017; and shall the city be permitted to collect, retain and expend all revenues derived from such tax as a voter-approved revenue change and an exception to limits which would otherwise apply under article X, section 20 of the Colorado constitution or any other law? What it means: If approved, Louisville will continue the current 0.125 percent historic preservation sales tax for another 10 years. It would also allow the funds to be used for projects outside the boundaries of historic old town with a supermajority of the City Council and also allow up to 20 of the funds to be used for operating and maintaining the Louisville Museum. What supporters say: The tax would provide funding for historic preservation projects for another 10 years, with the tax generating more than $500,000 annually. It would also give the city more flexibility with the funds. What opponents say: Some might feel the funds should not be used for projects on private property or for the maintenance of the museum in lieu of preserving other historic buildings in Louisville.
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 21
Longmont Issue 2H: Public safety sales tax increase What it asks: “Shall City of Longmont taxes be increased $6.2 million annually in the first full year and by such amounts as are raised annually thereafter by increasing the city sales and use tax rate from 3.275 percent to 3.53 percent, which is an increase of two and fifty-five one hundredth cents on each ten dollar purchase, beginning January 1, 2018, with proceeds used exclusively to increase the level of service for public safety in the City of Longmont, including but not limited to: • Police officers and personnel for traffic enforcement and to investigate
sex assaults; • Police officers to ensure safety of officers and to improve emergency response; • Emergency dispatchers for 911 response; • Firefighters to ensure safe and sufficient response to emergencies; • Personnel to support emergency public safety responders; and • Police and fire equipment and facilities to ensure safety; Shall the revenues from such tax and any investment income earned from such revenues be collected and spent as voter-approved revenue
change under Section 20 of Article X of the Colorado Constitution; and shall ordinance 0-2017-46, which increases the sales and use tax rate, be approved?” What it means: Longmont voters are being asked to approve a 0.255 percent increase to the existing public safety tax, increasing the current 0.325 percent public safety sales tax to 0.58 percent. This dedicated public safety sales tax would be used to hire more police officers, dispatchers, firefighters, and support staff and to purchase the equipment and facilities to provide public safety services. What supporters say: This tax is necessary to bring police and fire servic-
Longmont Issue 2I: Marijuana tax
rate of taxation does not exceed 15 percent, and with proceeds representing 1.5 percent of such sales or 15 cents on each ten dollar purchase used exclusively for affordable housing programs and services; shall the revenues from such tax and any investment income earned from such revenues be collected and spent as a voter-approved revenue change under Section 20 of Article X of the Colorado Constitution; and shall Ordinance 0-2017-47 be approved?” What it means: Assuming the city allows up to four marijuana retail stores in Longmont, the city is asking voters to approve an additional tax on retail sales of marijuana in those
stores. The additional sales tax rate would initially be 3 percent, or 3 cents per dollar spent on marijuana products, although the council could raise that to 15 percent in future years. What supporters say: Longmont will incur costs associated with marijuana sales, including costs for licensing and permitting marijuana stores, possible increases in public safety and drug outreach and prevention. Beyond covering costs of city services related to marijuana sales, tax revenue from marijuana will be used to fund affordable housing. Because many cities surrounding Longmont in Weld and Larimer counties do not allow marijuana sales, this new tax in Longmont will
What it asks: “Shall City of Longmont taxes be increased $1.3 million annually in the first full fiscal year and by such amounts as are raised annually thereafter by the imposition of an additional sales tax of 3.0 percent, which is an increase of thirty cents on each ten dollar purchase, beginning January 1, 2018, on the sale of retail marijuana and retail marijuana products as provided in ordinance 0-201747, with the rate of tax being allowed to be increased or decreased without further voter approval as long as the
es in alignment with the safety needs of our community. More police officers are needed to meet the increase in violent crime, crimes against the elderly and traffic accidents. Emergency dispatchers are needed for significantly increased 911 demands. Public safety resources have not increased to meet these demands, and the services are critical to the community. What opponents say: Growth should pay its own way for increased services of fire and police. The city should reprioritize city services to meet public safety needs. There is no need for additional sales tax. There is no need to increase the size of government. help maximize the positive impact of marijuana sales in the community by collecting revenue from residents in other communities, while keeping taxes on marijuana purchases Longmont residents make in the city. What opponents say: A tax on marijuana will make Longmont less competitive compared to other cities and Boulder County in the sale of marijuana. Specifically, there are cities with lower tax rates, which may drive Longmont marijuana consumers to other cities. The city has not specified a fund or specific use that marijuana tax will pay for outside of affordable housing. As such, these taxes may simply go to the city budget’s general fund
or Bou f s r e d a le D L O B
lde r
Jan Burton Eric Budd Jill Grano Mark McIntyre Bill Rigler
PROGRESSIVES
Paid for by the 22 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
done! who get things
Unofficial Candidate Campaign
LONGMONT MAYOR
Sarah Levison Website: Levison4Longmont.com Age: 60 Family: Husband, Hal Levison; children Rachel and Shaina How long have you lived in Longmont: 20 years Professional background: Worked for small business, a university, government Political/community experience: Longmont City Council; St. Vrain Rotary member; neighborhood leader; HENA; Economic Vitality Task Force; LiveWell Longmont; Multi cultural Action Committee: Bright
Brian J. Bagley Website: bagleyformayor.com Age: 45 Family: Wife, Ivone; children Dani, 19; Jordan, 13; Augie, 11; and Mikey 10. How long have you lived in Longmont: Since 1999 Professional background: Lawyer and entrepreneur Political/community experience: City Council for six years, four years as mayor pro-tem Education: Undergraduate B.A. from BYU; law school and MBA from the University of Colorado What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? First, it is impossible for everyone who wants to live in Longmont to live here. Geographic and financial realities prohibit it. As we continue to protect our open space, near the end of our development opportunities and take action to beautify our city, more and more people want to live here and, consequently, the price of housing increases. I refuse to stop doing the things that make Longmont a great place to live. However, we shouldn’t ignore those who are struggling to find affordable housing. We have made accommodations to provide “subsidized” affordable housing for our seniors and members of our working class — e.g., our firefighters, teachers and food servers. Longmont places $1
EYES Coalition; National League of Cities committees; Colorado Municipal League board Education: B.A. Franklin and Marshall College; graduate courses, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? Start building affordable housing. Add units for rent and sale using a combination of building techniques such as modular and panelized factory built structures. Create a community land trust to hold the land for these units. Preserve existing affordable units by extending their affordable status for at least 20 years. Keep existing mobile home parks. Develop policies to prevent established neighborhoods of small homes from being torn down for gentrification. What city services, programs or projmillion into affordable housing each year. We then partner with entities such as Longmont Housing Authority to provide approximately 100 permanently affordable housing units each year. Our goal is to have 10 percent of Longmont’s housing stock designated as permanently affordable by 2035. Even with this, we will never meet the unlimited demand of housing when it is offered below market prices. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? Longmont has a lot on our plate. We are fostering a thriving economy, fighting to keep our neighborhoods free from heavy industry, i.e., fracking, and struggling to solve an affordable housing and homeless epidemic. Before calling for yet another program, let’s focus on the issues presently before us. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? Longmont faces an emergent problem with the homeless. The high cost of housing — combined with unfortunate personal circumstances — have driven many to lose their homes. We need to be compassionate, but the very services and assistance we provide are now attracting a group of traveling strangers to our community who have no nexus to Longmont, and they have brought an increase in crime and drug addiction. As such, we need to work with Longmont’s nonprofits to coordinate our charitable efforts. While showing compassion, we must insist on accountability and public safety. Generally speaking, Longmont uses “Priority Based Budgeting.” Items with a high priority receive funding; less important items do not. This has been ongoing for five years and Longmont continues to “trim the fat.”
ects need to be expanded or added? Expand programs for children and youth. Partner with schools and local business organizations to start programs for middle and high schools including internships to introduce youth to a broad range of jobs and professions. Expand our current programs for workforce development. Expand adult literacy programs. Invest more in child care support so that people with young children can work. Increase the city’s reserve funds to the maximum possible. Increase the number of police and fire personnel needed to keep pace with our growing population, including additional staff to remove graffiti. Set aside money as a matching fund to create quiet zones to mitigate train noise. We could take some of the unexpended funds from other capital programs for this purpose. What city services, programs or proj-
Roger Lange Website: RogerLangeforMayor.com Age: 76 Family: Wife, Jackie; sons Tom and John; daughter, Kathy; six grandchildren How long have you lived in Longmont? Over 40 years Professional background: Employed more than 30 years in the telecommunications industry working for US West in several management and executive positions Present occupation, financial adviser. Political/community experience: Longmont City Council, 2000-2007; Longmont mayor 2007-2009; Board member and treasurer of Hover Community Senior Center; Longmont Rotary. Education: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, South Dakota School of Mines, 1963; M.B.A., University of Phoenix, 1980. What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? Affordable Housing continues to be an elusive goal for the City of Longmont with an objective of 10 percent affordable housing units available in the city. Right now we are around 5 percent affordability in total housing units and have been at that level for some years. Much discussion has taken place as to the most effective way to move the affordability number towards the 10 percent objective from the 5 percent number that we seem not able to make much progress on. City council
ects need to be reduced or eliminated? City Council members need input on the budget before it is released in August to cut out any pockets of inefficiency and unnecessary expenses. It is difficult to do this once the budget is published. One year when I was on council, a couple of council members were able to review the budget when it was first released and then suggest cuts to department heads. This review and the staff interaction was a productive process, saving time in the budget review process. It also saved money in the budget. One example of unnecessary expenses includes the fees paid for Longmont’s contract with the Archdiocese of Denver that allows city staff to park across from city hall. Instead of the city paying for parking, staff could use the dozens of free and empty parking spaces in city-owned lots within easy walking distance. has recently set aside $1 million dollars towards increasing our inventory of affordable housing, but it will take many more dollars to make significant progress towards the 10 percent goal. In my opinion a much bolder step must be considered to effectively move the affordability needle significantly. For example there are six apartment projects recently built or to be started with a total capacity over 1,600 units for occupancy. These apartment projects are all being offered at market rate, with not one out of the 1,600 offered at an affordable rate. It is easy to see why we are not making the type of progress we should make towards a goal of 10 percent affordability. We are simply not asking the builders of these projects to help us in the affordability dilemma. Affordable housing often carries a negative connotation and it is often not seen as a positive impact on our community. The truth is that our veterans’, first responders’ and teachers’ salaries are often out of reach of market rate rents or home sales. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? I believe we should meet the needs of our public safety services, even if occasionally means that an adjustment of the safety sales tax is needed to hire more police officers, dispatchers and firefighters. There is nothing more important to citizens of a community than to feel that they can live in a safe environment. Longmont has seen a significant increase in traffic volume, accidents and fatalities. Crime has unfortunately increased including computer fraud and other technology-related crimes. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? None at this time.
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 23
PLAN Boulder
Endorsements! Cindy Carlisle “Best person to protect pressures on Boulder’s natural resources and neighborhoods.”-- Stephen Jones
John Gerstle International water consultant. “Outstanding leadership as chair of the Planning Board.”--Ruth Wright
Mirabai Nagle “At 34, Mirabai represents the next generation of responsible stewardship for Boulder.”--Lisa Morzel
Sam Weaver Incumbent. “He’s proposed creative and collaborative policies on difficult issues.”--Zan Jones, Mayor
Mary Young Incumbent. Mechanical engineer. “Resilient, resourceful and intuitive.” --Zan Jones, Mayor
Longmont Question 2J: Water storage bond What it asks: “Shall City of Longmont debt be increased in an amount not to exceed $36,300,000 for the purpose of financing water system improvements, including but not limited to the construction of a water storage reservoir as part of the Windy Gap Firming project at a participation level not to exceed 10,000 acre-feet; and shall the debt be evidenced by bonds, loan agreements, or other financial obligations payable solely from the City’s water utility enterprise revenues and be issued at one time or in a series at a price above, below or equal to the principal amount of such debt and with such terms and conditions, including provisions for redemption prior to maturity with or without payment of premium, as the City Council may determine?” What it means: Longmont is asking voters to approve issuing bonds, backed by revenues such as customers’ water-rate payments, to help fund construction of a water supply reservoir whose users would include Longmont. The new reservoir west of Carter Lake in Larimer County would hold 90,000 acre-feet of water. Longmont’s cost of owning one-ninth of the water to be stored there is estimated at $49.5 million, and the city has invested $5.1 million to date, leaving an estimated remaining $44.4 million contribution requirement. If voters approve the bond, approximately 15 percent of this remaining cost would be funded by the city’s Raw Water Storage and Water Acqui-
sition funds, and the remainder would be funded by up to $36.3 million in bonds, requiring the City Council to raise water rates by 13 percent in 2018 and 10 percent in 2019. What supporters say: This project was developed through regional partnerships and decades of planning and represents a significant opportunity for Longmont to secure its current and future water supply. Water supply in Colorado is highly vulnerable, and Longmont’s participation in the construction of a reservoir to maximize our existing water rights provides insurance to reliably meet the water needs of our community. Bond financing results in user rates that are initially lower than if cash were used to fund the improvements and distributes costs more equitably across both current and future residents. Through fees paid on building permits, new water connections will continue to contribute to funds dedicated to Longmont’s water supply. What opponents say: Longmont’s long-term water supply needs could be met though alternative methods or projects. Longmont does not need this much water now or in the future. Although cash funding the improvements would result in higher rates for several years, the long-term rate impact would be lower because there would be no bond interest to be paid. The city should not go into debt to fund projects of this type; other sources of funding should be found.
Ballot Issue 2L Extension and raise for the portion of the existing Utility Occupation Tax that funds Municipalization
Ballot Issue 2O A charter amendment to require a citizen vote prior to incurring debt for seperation construction
Ballot Issue 2P Extension of the council’s authority to conduction executive sessions to seek legal advice related to Municipalization
Ballot Issue 2M Extension of 0.3 Cents Sales and Use Tax of the Community, Culture and Safety Tax for Capital Improvements
Ballot Issue 2N
WhoisPLAN-Boulder?
Debt Authority of Community, Culture and Safety Tax for Capital Improvements
Founded in 1959, PLAN-Boulder County seeks to promote far-sighted, innovative, and sustainable land use and growth patterns that preserve the area’s unique character and desirability, as well as reducing our “carbon footprint.” Visit PlanBoulder.org to join or contribute.
All welcome!
Paid for by: PLAN-Boulder County Issues Committee 2017 and PLAN-Boulder County Candidate Committee 2017. Reports on file with Boulder City Clerk. Leonard May, treasurer.
24 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
Longmont Question 2K: Judicial retention What it asks: “Shall Municipal Judge Robert J. Frick be retained in office for two (2) years?” What it means: Voters are being asked whether Longmont’s municipal judge should be kept in that job for two more years. The City Council appointed him the post in June 2016 to replace Judge Diana VanDeHey, who retired in May 2016. Frick, who has a law degree from Creighton University, had served as an assistant deputy or special judge for Lakewood, Edgewater, Greeley, Frederick and Elizabeth, as well as a deputy Weld County district attorney. He was in private practice prior to being named Longmont’s municipal judge. What supporters, opponents say: No organized support for — and no organized opposition to — has emerged for giving Frick another two years in the municipal judge’s position.
We didn’t let 300 & 301 divide us then Two years ago Boulder voters soundly defeated an attempt to divide our city - a proposal intended to shut the doors behind us, even if it meant dampening the vibrancy that drew many of us here. We didn’t let it happen then, and we won’t let it happen in 2017. That’s why Open Boulder proudly endorses five candidates for City Council who think forward rather than backwards, toward openness rather than walls. These candidates will bring pragmatic, progressive leadership while remaining true to the community’s vision of Boulder as an exceptional place to live, work and play.
Eric Budd
Jan Burton
Jill Grano Mark McIntyre Bill Rigler
What these five candidates have in common: Neighborhoods for All
Open Space
They’ll strive for diversity of housing and will work to make Boulder more inclusive of families, our workforce and young people.
Promote Open Space policies that focus on sustainable trails, better maintenance and increased access, while protecting sensitive natural resources.
Keeping Jobs in Boulder Continue to nurture our thriving economy by encouraging small businesses and entreprenuers to grow their companies and keep good jobs in Boulder.
Environmental Leadership
Solutions For Our Tough Challenges Fearlessly tackle Boulder’s transportation challenges, the city’s homeless dilemma and our ever-increasing lack of social and economic diversity.
Be bold and innovative in pursuit of real progress towards reaching our city’s climate goals and securing our clean energy future.
Paid for by Open Boulder
Visit Us: OpenBoulder.org
Live R Work R Play ...it’s why we’re here! ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 25
LONGMONT CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE
Aren Rodriguez Website URL: RodriguezVision.com Age: 34 How long have you lived in Longmont: 1983-2001; 2013-present Professional background: Residential real estate appraiser, 2012-present; touring musician, 2005-2012 Political/community experience: Arts Longmont: secretary/Treasurer, 2015-present; City of Longmont Planning and Zoning Commissioner, 2016-present; co-leader Outreach and Inclusion Team for Boulder County Democratic Party, 2015-present Education: Niwot High School 2001;
Cathy Jarrett Website: JarrettforCityCouncil.com Age: 68 Family: Single, with extended family — parents, siblings and numerous others How long have you lived in Longmont: Since 1971 Professional background: Special education teacher in St. Vrain Valley School District for 20 years Political/community experience: A founder of Twin Peaks Charter Academy and elected secretary on the board of directors; candidate for Colorado House District 11; election worker and watcher, and member of Logic and Accuracy and Canvass boards Education: B.A. in elementary education; M.A. in special education; many other post-graduate classes What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? Possibilities could include small dwelling units in back yards, in basements and over garages, as well as small houses, condos and apartments. Multigenera-
Alex Sammoury Website: alexsammoury.com Age: 63 Family: Wife, Amy; son, Jean-Paul; daughter, Grace, and son, Elias How long have you lived in Longmont: Since 1994 Professional background: High tech industry storage and recording; entrepreneur.
Chapman University 2005, Opera Performance What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? The city has been and will continue to fund a variety of affordable housing needs. There is, however, a gap that needs addressing between “affordable” housing and housing that allows our local teachers, nurses, etc. to be able to work and live in Longmont. Affordable housing has income-specific requirements that exclude a large number of folks seeking to purchase housing. I will fight to add housing that is attainable for all. Options include smaller square footage, affordable finishes — carpet/ vinyl flooring, laminate countertops, etc. — relaxed ADU ) zoning, and appropriately located higher density tional living is making a comeback. This can help solve some of the housing shortage as well as benefiting all age groups. Young people can benefit from the wisdom and attention of their grandparents. They can all be of help to one another. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? Existing and future programs should be thoroughly evaluated based on need to determine if city government is the proper agency to meet each need. The city should continue to work in unison with the non-profit and faith communities. Current programs meant to help homeless people are over capacity as we continue to have an influx of people from other communities. The Coordinated Entry program has the potential to help various groups work together. The city should continue to work with agencies that provide job training to meet the needs of employers. Compassion mixed with tough love can help people gain self-sufficiency instead of long term dependency. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? Similar programs appear to be offered by the library, museum and recreation department. Perhaps these could be evaluated to see which department is best suited to offer the programs. Political/community experience: Served on council from 2009-2013 and current Chair of the Longmont Downtown Development Authority. Served on 15 boards and commissions. Education: B.A. in International Relations and Economics, University of Colorado What should the city be doing to
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“for purchase” units. Some of these options are directly related to partnering with the right builders in the future. Builders that are interested in being a good neighbor. This is something that the city council should be invested in pursuing at the planning phase of development to ensure that the project will benefit both the property owner, developer, and residents of Longmont at-large. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? We need to be proactive about addressing the inevitable growth to the city by prioritizing improvements to our infrastructure. This includes addressing speed limits in areas that are increasing in development and density. Adding clearly visible street crossings in close proximi-
ty to schools and popular pedestrian areas that are currently lacking thereof. Moving our electric grid to 100 percent renewable resources. Not to mention improving our rail crossings on the east side to improve the quality of life and property values of our neighbors. We can also work on leveraging the money paid to RTD for better and more efficient bus service while continuing to demand the rail promised to us in 2004 when we voted for it. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? There should be a review of the city’s various parks, greenways, medians, right-of-ways, etc. to determine the possibility of xeriscaping and other opportunities for conserving water and other city/taxpayer resources.
tion/Finance What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? Return 10 percent Affordability Program for New Builds; establish income Website: gallegosforcitycouncil.com test program for young renters/seniors Age: 63 Family: Married, Diane Goldenstein; for rent controlled apartments on new builds. one son, Philip Gallegos What city services, programs or projHow long have you lived in Longects need to be expanded or added? mont: Since 1985 Professional background: Consultant; Bypass at Airport Road around the lake; affordable rent-controlled procommercial mortgage broker; owner, gram for young workers/seniors; Conejos Fine Art Gallery Political/community experience: City parking garages downtown; public/ private partnership; land use policies Council Member, Ward 3 1995-1999’ for commercial development along the board of directors river; Recreation Center, Garden National League of CitAcres Park, and finally closing Main ies; Colorado Municipal Street between Third and Ninth aveLeague; Hispanic Localnues and turning it into a pedestrian ly Elected Officials; mall. Purchase and redevelop old Economic DevelopmenKmart building into a police substatal Authority Longmont; tion, branch library, and office space. Planning and Zoning What city services, programs or projCommission; Transporects need to be reduced or eliminated? tation Advisory Board; council liaison, Judge/probation department could be Library Board eliminated. Contract legal services Education: University of Colorado, and fines over the counter via an University of Phoenix, Dartmouth, Political Science, Business Administra- established fine guide.
Ron Gallegos
address affordable housing needs?The city should take a collaborative effort with the county, Longmont Housing Authority, Thistle and Habitat for Humanity in developing a strategy for developing adequate affordable housing. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? The projects/programs that I feel should be expanded are the St. Vrain River Corridor making it a destination and gather-
ing place similar to what Denver has done along the Platte River. I also support the growth of the Angel Initiative that encourages people suffering with addiction to seek the assistance and resources needed for them to combat their addiction. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? I am not aware of any projects or programs that should be eliminated at this time.
LONGMONT CITY COUNCIL AT-LARGE
Polly Christensen Website: pollychristensen.com Age: 68 Family: Son, Sam How long have you lived in Longmont: Since 1989 Professional background: I have extensive management and budgeting experience. I retired three years ago from CU as a managing editor and art director after 15 years of service. Political/community experience: City Council member at-large for the
last four years. I serve on these boards: Housing and Human Services, Boulder County Consortium of Cities, El Comité, Historic Preservation, Environmental Affairs, Library, Multicultural Action, Senior Center. Education: Double-major graduate of the University of Colorado. What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? The key to any thriving city is a thriving, not a hollowed-out, middle class. The city should continue to collaborate with other county municipalities to address this issue regionally because it gives us greater leverage and cost efficiencies. The most important thing we can do locally is restore the requirement for 10 percent affordable housing for all new developments and all annexations.
Of the 2,000 units currently under development, only 110 are affordable. Most of these units are rentals, not for sale. Few can ever begin to build equity as a renter. There must be a path to home ownership for everyone who is willing to work hard. Under Reagan, the United States got out of public housing and public health and turned it over to the alleged “free market” and private sector. This failed public policy has resulted in millions of homeless people and a national housing crisis. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? I do not know that any of our programs need to be either added or eliminated; some need to be rethought. but City Council and staff are always trying to analyze how we can better serve and protect residents in a more efficient and effective
way. There are a few things I think people would like to see: a branch library, another rec center. But our first responsibility has to be to keep our town safe by finishing all the flood repair. That will take about five more years and many millions of dollars. We have to continue to be fiscally responsible. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? I cannot think of any programs that need to be eliminated. There may be some programs that serve a diminishing popularity or population, such as golf, but these are things that fluctuate. Golf is very enjoyable to many people and offers good opportunities for many young people, so I would not advocate eliminating it when the golf board and many others are working hard to build it up.
LONGMONT CITY COUNCIL WARD 2
Marcia Martin Website: martin42.com Age: 63 Family: One daughter, Alexandra Marie Martin How long have you lived in Longmont: Since 1998, with a sojourn to Erie while Alexandra attended high school Professional background: Computer scientist, researcher, inventor, author, Cleantech engineer Political/community experience: Democratic precinct chairperson; co-founder of WTF Colorado, Inc.; citizen lobbyist for Sierra Club, and citizen Lobbyist Early Action Network (CLEAN); OFA Fellow; Longmont Area Democrats; mentor/ facilitator for Girls Who Code Education: B.S. Washington University, St. Louis; M.S.C.S., Sever Institute of Technology What should the city be doing to address affordable housing needs? First, understand the problem: Communities are made of neighborhoods, not units and dollars. Let’s ensure someone who works in Longmont full time can live with us and be part of our community. This means integrating affordable housing into our neighborhoods, not exiling it to the food desert. Let’s innovate neighborhood models that welcome economic diversity: Restore the minimum 10 percent affordable/20 percent accessible rule for multifamily developments. Don’t accept payments from builders instead of compliance. We want neighborhoods that are meaningful improvements for all of Longmont.
Finally, engage Longmont’s affluent residents with private lending programs, innovative land use and financing models to help barristas, health aides, and carpenters stay part of the community. This undertaking needs a sense of shared ownership that’s organic, not imposed. We all must Lift Up Longmont. What city services, programs or projects need to be expanded or added? Longmont offers superb services that empower citizens and enhance community, like mental health First Aid training. Let’s make sure residents know about these programs so they take best advantage of living in Longmont. Closer collaboration with St. Vrain Valley School District will help them grow. I’d like to add one program in particular: We must expand our efforts to safeguard Longmont’s environment. Find ways to fulfill our voters’ clear choice to rid Longmont of fracking. Losing a court case isn’t the end. Let’s issue no permits until Martinez v. Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission is settled. We can use that time to plan more delaying tactics. What city services, programs or projects need to be reduced or eliminated? First, Longmont must not rely on developers to craft our future. Don’t take their word that traffic will be fine: run our own traffic studies. Because we didn’t craft good requirements for The Village at Twin Peaks; Newmark Merrill built a food court rather than a place central to our city. A developer wants return-on-investment in a few years, but we live with their mistakes longer. Secondly, if it’s two decades before we’ll see FasTracks, let’s shift our focus with RTD and insist on other solutions. Let them provide us smaller, electric local buses so we can keep up with traffic patterns as Longmont grows. Last stop subsidizing troublesome Vance Brand Airport.
AMI. To get first time homeowners into housing, I would support code updates promoting smaller lot sizes, to reduce the per unit cost of land, conWebsite: jeffmooreward2.com struction, and infrastructure. Include Age: 61 energy efficiency standards to reduce Family: Wife, Ingrid; son, Doug and monthly utility costs. Code changes in his wife, Denise; two granddaughters certain neighborhoods to allow rental How long have you lived in Longof part of the house, like the basement, mont: 22 years allow “mother-in-law” apartments over Professional background: Manufacgarages, as in Prospect, and other turing engineer changes that would provide homeownPolitical/community experience: City ers assistance with house payments. Council, November 2013 to present; We need a complete fix to the construcLongmont Downtown Development tion defects problem preventing ownerAuthority; Longmont Housing Authori- occupied attached housing, condos and ty; Library Board; Airport Advisory townhomes, from being built. Last Board; Youth Council; year, the state Legislature passed a parWater Board; Denver tial fix to the problem - they need to Regional Council of finish the job. This is another opportuGovernments; North nity for first-time homeownership that Area Transit Alliance; so many of us have used to build Commuting Solutions; wealth. CO 66 PEL; National What city services, programs or projLeague of Cities Inforects need to be expanded or added? mation Technology and I would like to see another full-service Communications Committee; National recreation center in Longmont. Our League of Cities Board of Directors; facilities are heavily used and there is a President, Meadowview 7 and 9 HOA. need for a competitive pool, especially Education: B.S. industrial technology, for the school district. The district and Iowa State University. the city could partner to get this done. I What should the city be doing to would like to see reinstatement of the address affordable housing needs? We bi-annual hard-to-recycle events that have an affordable housing crunch that have been discontinued. Their relativeis affecting a wide range of incomes. ly low cost and high usage will help City council has implemented incentive clean up our city. The challenge is findpolicies of density and height bonuses, ing a place that can handle the high fee waivers, and zero interest loans volume of traffic, which speaks to the from the affordable housing fund. This popularity of the event. year, for the first time, $1million is What city services, programs or projbeing placed in the Affordable Housing ects need to be reduced or eliminated? Fund to assist in developing housing I am not advocating to reduce city serfor incomes at or below 50 percent vices.
Jeff Moore
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 27
BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT B
Christina Marquis Website: NA Age: 46 Family: Married with two children How long have you lived in Boulder Valley: 14 years Professional background: Marketing and program management Political/community experience: Four years on the BVSD school board, two years on the board of the Conference on World
Affairs, three years on school district and school accountability committees Education: Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University, Master’s of Business Administration from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan Boulder Valley has started the process to hire its next superintendent. What qualities should the district’s next leader posses? The superintendent search will begin soon, and the first step is to hear from the community about the qualities it values. The search firm will coordinate different ways to hear from different stakeholders, including meetings,
interviews and online surveys. The board will review the output from this process and, as one body, develop a list of qualities important to us. Personally, I am looking for a superintendent with strong communication skills, a track record of helping all students succeed, including low income and minority students, and a commitment to transparency. The district and school board have been criticized for a lack of transparency. How would you address those concerns? My hope is that the new superintendent will model transparency and cultivate an open, transparent culture within the board, district and community. In
the meantime, I am personally committed to continue to communicate openly with the community, staff, parents and other board members. What’s the biggest challenge facing the school district? BVSD continues to struggle with helping our low-income and minority students make significant academic gains. While our special education students achieve higher than some of their peers across the state, there is still a large gap between their academic performance and that of the general population. I am hoping the district continues to evaluate the strategies being used to help these populations and to explore new options.
BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT E can inspire and encourage others to do their best. The district and school board have been criticized for a lack of transparency. How would you address those conWebsite: miersforbvsd.com cerns? Age: 62 It is important for our school board Family: Married with three sons and superintendent to be transparent in How long have you lived in Boulder their actions that involve our communiValley: 32 years Professional background: I worked for ty and the success of our students. I 30 years as a classroom teacher, admin- have watched as parents or community istrator and a teacher on special assign- members brought concerns to the board. I know of many instances where ment for BVSD. Political/community experience: I was the board had not been made aware of a “band mom” at Fairview High School concerns. This really shows a lack of communication and transparency for 10 years. I was a BVEA member. Education: Bachelor’s of science from between the board and the superintendent. I will insist on open and transparTexas Wesleyan Colent communication, as well as integrity, lege, minor in Spanish; in all major decisions. master’s of education What’s the biggest challenge facing from University of Illithe school district? nois; elementary educaThere are many issues currently faction teacher and princiing our district, including hiring a new pal licenses; severe superintendent, creating a sustainable affective needs and genbudget, hiring quality teachers, data eralist certifications; special education specialist and English privacy and internet safety for our students, high stakes assessments that and social studies secondary endorsechew up valuable instruction time, closments. Boulder Valley has started the process ing the achievement gap and keeping our students safe. We have to manage to hire its next superintendent. What qualities should the district’s next leader our budget so that we can provide necessary resources to our teachers so posses? A great superintendent knows what it that they can meet student needs. We takes to lead students to successful out- must concentrate on appropriate comes. Open communication, account- assessments that don’t delay interventions necessary for student success. ability and transparency are crucial qualities. The board and the communi- We cannot rely on the required state assessments to guide our instruction. ty should be included in important decision-making. We must look closely How would it be to use a once-a-year weigh-in to determine if a diet is workat data to see if the candidates were able to increase the achievements of all ing? We must have timely, low-stress, reliable and valid assessments that are students in their district. The best precommon districtwide. This will give us dictor of future performance is past performance. We must look at the past the information to change interventions as needed. We cannot wait until a performance of the candidate we are considering to lead our students to suc- child is below failing before that child can receive additional specialized intercessful outcomes. We need a person who has a high degree of integrity and ventions.
Donna Miers
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Raj Rawat Website: RajRawat.com Age: 60 Family: Wife, co-founder of Hanuman Chai; son, 27 in medical school; daughter, 25 in medical school How long have you lived in Boulder Valley: 17 years Professional background: Twenty years at IBM and Xerox; author of “Find Your Everest Before Someone Chooses It for You”; founder at Reverse the Chase Project Political/community experience: Boy Scouts, rank advancement counselor; Toastmasters president; sponsor of Teacher Awards at Colorado State Science Fair Education: Bachelor of science degree in distribution and logistics at Syracuse University; master’s degree in business administration at the University of Houston at Clear Lake; executive master’s degree in business administration at the University of Southern California Boulder Valley has started the process to hire its next superintendent. What qualities should the district’s next leader posses? Integrity, agility and leadership. The district and school board have been criticized for a lack of transparency. How would you address those concerns? Open meetings for everything. No private, legal behind-the-door talks until trust is restored. Make a mandate that all, all work will be in public domain until there is need to revisit. What’s the biggest challenge facing
the school district? Ineffective stewardship of the taxpayer trust. BVSD leadership and board have invested in buildings and technology and ignored igniting the spark for learning. They are not engaging students. The board removed one superintendent, Dr. Messinger, without disclosing the reasons. The previous superintendent, Dr. King, also left. Even if reasons for removing superintendents were valid, leadership change is disruptive. It shows a breakage in the board’s leadership and highlights lack of sound judgment and decision-making. The district lost money — $850K to a hacker, paid $260K to another employee in case of recent superintendent removal — and rebuilt a school from scratch that was upgraded less than five years ago with millions invested. Attitudes show that board is too rich to care. Teachers don’t have adequate empowerment programs. Pay teachers well and give them time to do more of their interest on their own time. Give teachers the opportunity to innovate. Assign them mentors and let them launch startups. Give then access to labs and let them collaborate. Give them seed funding to find their own new-world successes. Missed opportunity: Dot-com boom, big-data explosion, social media transformation, mobile app opportunities, drone remote applications. No teachers capitalized. Their students did. Why did no teacher music videos go viral? Teachers are the roots that nurture our students. Give them life experiences, so that they can give more perspectives to the kids.
BILLFORBOULDER.COM “ Bill has an impre impressive record of public ublic service ser e in Boulder. He’ll make an outstan outstanding member of City Council.” KC Becker Colorado House Majority Leader “ Bill’s expertise as chairman of the Transportation Advisory Board is critical if we want to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions.” Matt Appelbaum former Boulder Mayor “ The first renter on Council in more than 40 years, Bill will be a forceful advocate for middle-income housing solutions.” Leslie Durgin former Boulder Mayor “ It’s important to have Bill as an ally and bridge to Boulder’s startup & tech community.” Corey Kohn Co-Founder / Member-Owner, dojo4 “ We haven’t had a TAB member on Council in more than 20 years. Bill can play a critical role in moving Boulder forward on innovative transportation solutions.” George Karakehian former City Council Member C I T Y
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“ Bill’s creative plans will tackle traffic congestion & reduce Boulder’s greenhouse gas emissions.” Chuck Lief President of Naropa University “ Bill will be an advocate for small business owners like us.” Gerry & Nicole Wienholt Owners of YogaPod “ Bill has the right combination of intelligence, experience, and altruistic judgement to be an effective advocate on City Council.” Don Cote Frasier Retirement Community “ Our community needs more leaders like Bill who understand the importance of Human Services & supports our nonprofit partners.” Susan Buchanan Executive Director, Boulder Valley Women’s Health Center “ Bill has worked hard to make streets safer for cyclists yclists and bikers.” bikers. Rob Andrew Co-Founder, Cyclists sts 4 Community Communit & Wednesday Morning rning Velo
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Individual endorsements do not reflect endorsement by a company or organization. Paid for and authorized by Rigler for City Council.
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 29
BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT E
Dean Vlachos Website: vlachosforbvsdschoolboard.com Age: 51 Family: Wife, Janice, is a Fairview High School teacher; daughter, Eleni, attends Gannon University; son, Nikolas, attends the University of Northern Colorado. How long have you lived in Boulder Valley: 12 years Professional background: Career — 28 years — environmental engineer managing wastewater permitting and regulatory compliance projects. Political/community experience: Parent volunteer at BVSD schools and percussion accompanist with student choirs and theater productions. Involvement in local com-
munity groups, centering on music performance. Education: Bachelor’s of science in civil engineering from Colorado State University and master’s of science in environmental engineering from Vanderbilt University Boulder Valley has started the process to hire its next superintendent. What qualities should the district’s next leader posses? The district’s next leader should exhibit three major qualities: he or she should be accountable, collaborative and creative. Accountability is a commitment to represent the best interests of students, teachers and the taxpaying community. Collaboration is a commitment to involve all interested parties to ensure effective and productive decisions. Creativity is the courage to promote new ideas for educational progress. These three qualities will be enhanced by knowledge and perspectives obtained by leading a large district with similar challenges to BVSD. We
will hire someone with these characteristics if we listen to input from district teachers, administrators, staff and community leaders. The district and school board have been criticized for a lack of transparency. How would you address those concerns? I am committed to ensuring that the community has trust and confidence in the work of the school board by consistently working to be transparent. Transparency is driven by communication that is clear and easy to understand. I would promote efforts to actively reach out to all interested parties regarding the work of the board and the district, not only about decisions that have been made, but also about the next steps that are planned. The most important aspects of transparency include publicly declaring a decision, and explaining and documenting how and why that decision was reached. The community deserves to be engaged with decisions the school board makes.
What’s the biggest challenge facing the school district? The biggest challenge facing the district is to ensure that the funds that the district controls are used to ensure that all students are served and are positioned for success after graduation. Besides academics, other opportunities for students such as arts, athletics and public service serve as important means for growth. The district must ensure that programs that serve special education students, English language learners, gifted students and students with emotional needs are embedded in the curriculum. Prioritizing money is difficult because of competing needs. Absent a statewide ballot measure, significant funding increases will not be available in the immediate future so the school board must allocate funds to promote success for all students. I see value in working with community organizations and corporations to work with the district in supportive efforts in the future.
BOULDER VALLEY SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT F
Kitty Sargent Website: sargentforbvsd.com Age: 62 Family: Daughters Carolyn and Barrie Warshawsky How long have you lived in Boulder Valley: 31 years Professional background: Teacher, Merrill Lynch account executive, director of education and prevention at Blue Sky Bridge, community outreach coordinator at the OUR Center, LegalShield Political/community experience: Active politically since the early ’90’s working on issue campaigns and for candidates. Since 1999, I have been teaching mandatory reporting and child sexual abuse prevention classes.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Arizona, Master’s degree in social work from the University of Denver. Boulder Valley has started the process to hire its next superintendent. What qualities should the district’s next leader posses? A superintendent should have the following qualities: instructional leader, good communicator, good manager, flexible and innovative. The district and school board have been criticized for a lack of transparency. How would you address those concerns? I believe everything that can be made public should be. An explanation should be provided for keeping something confidential. What’s the biggest challenge facing the school district? The biggest immediate challenge is hiring the right superintendent.
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Alexandra Eddy Age: 22 Family: Fiancé, Taylor Jacobsen, engineer at Medtronic Boulder, 15month-old daughter, Vivienne How long have you lived in Boulder Valley: 13 years Professional background: College student at the University of Colorado Political/community experience: Volunteer at Humane Society of Boulder Valley, volunteer with Girls on the Run of the Rockies, participating in the training necessary to be a CASA in Broomfield County to help foster children Education: Senior at CU majoring in political science pre-law Boulder Valley has started the process to hire its next superintendent. What qualities should the district’s next leader posses? The next superintendent should have a proven track record of implementing positive change. We should also have someone who has a shared interest in our district and will make difficult decisions for the best interest of the district. Additionally, this leader should be able to be held accountable and want to work collaboratively with board and staff members.
The district and school board have been criticized for a lack of transparency. How would you address those concerns? I would have to explain to concerned community members that, in cases when I am not able to divulge specific information, I am making decisions for the best interest of our district for everyone. I will always work to hear the voices of our community members and listen to each concern. Working collaboratively is important for our children and staff, this includes the board encouraging outreach from parents and actively listening to their concerns. What’s the biggest challenge facing the school district? There are many challenges that we are facing, but a significant challenge that needs to be addressed is the vast number of children who are unable to read beyond a fifth-grade level. If we intend to close the achievement gap, we need our students to know how to read. There are many students in BVSD who are significantly behind and are unable to progress in their education, and this issue deserves all of our attention. Additionally, we need to be aiming for our students to be beyond partially proficient while giving the due diligence to students who need help getting to this point as well as students who are exceeding standards and want to achieve higher.
Boulder County Issue 1A: Worthy Cause sales and use tax extension What it asks: “With no increase in any county tax, shall the county’s existing .05 percent sales and use tax for health and human services be extended to and including Dec. 31, 2033, for the purposes of funding capital facilities and equipment for non-profit human services agencies and housing authorities within Boulder County providing health, mental health, transitional and permanently affordable housing, and other human services, including but not limited to childcare and early childhood education, basic needs such as food and clothing, and services for the elderly and people with disabilities; and shall the proceeds and the earnings on the investment of the proceeds of such tax constitute a voter-approved revenue change; all in accordance with board of county commissioners’ resolution No. 2017-89.” What it means: It’s a 5-cent tax on a purchase of $100 and generates about $2.7 million a year for county funding assistance for nonprofit
human services agencies. Voters first approved the tax in 2000 and extended it again in 2003 and 2008. It is set to expire at the end of 2018. Approval of the measure extends the tax for 15 years but will not result in any tax increase. What supporters say: The majority of the funds are reserved to be rewarded to nonprofits through an annual request process. The funds go to capital expenditures, facilities and equipment for nonprofits that offer health care, child care and education as well as food, clothing and services for people who need them. The tax is only 5 cents on $100, and it goes to things such as housing for homeless families and emergency shelters for battered women and their families. What opponents say: The tax amounts to compulsory charity, because taxpayers won’t have a say in what organizations get funding. The tax is unfair to organizations who do not get funding.
Boulder County Question 1B: Sheriff term limit extension to 5 terms What it asks: “Shall the term limits imposed by state law and in Article XVIII, Section 11, of the Colorado Constitution on the office of Sheriff of Boulder County be modified so as to permit an elected officeholder in that office to seek and, if the voters of Boulder County choose to re-elect that person to a fifth term in office, to serve a fifth consecutive term?” What it means: If it passes, a Boulder County sheriff would be allowed to serve a fifth consecutive term. Boulder County voters
approved extending term limits to four consecutive terms in 2011. What supporters say: Unlike most political jobs, a county sheriff’s office requires a career professional. The argument for term limits is weakest in positions requiring this combination of training, education and experience. What opponents say: Without strict limits on the time someone can hold office, it’s difficult to challenge or unseat an incumbent.
Boulder County Question 1C: Authorization to provide broadband services What it says: “Without increasing taxes, shall Boulder County be authorized to provide high-speed Internet service (advanced service), telecommunications service, and/or cable television service, including any new and improved high bandwidth services based on future technologies, utilizing existing or new County-owned infrastructure or facilities, to schools, libraries, residents, businesses, nonprofit entities, and other users or subscribers of such services, either directly or indirectly, with public or private sector partners, as expressly permitted by Article 27, Title 29 of the Colorado Revised Statutes,
entitled ‘Competition in Utility and Entertainment Services?’” What it means: The question asks voters whether to allow Boulder County, either by itself or with other government agencies or private businesses, to provide broadband internet, telecommunications and cable TV services to schools, libraries, public buildings, community centers, residents, businesses and other users. The county has no immediate plans to provide such services. What supporters, opponents say: No organized support for — and no organized opposition to — has emerged.
MY NAME IS ADAM SWETLIK AND IF I AM ELECTED TO BOULDER CITY COUNCIL HERE IS WHAT I WILL FIGHT FOR: • Be a voice for hard-w are doing everything
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• Provide creative solutions to bring additional low and middleincome housing to Boulder. We must keep workers here and reduce the 60% in-commuter rate for our workforce. • Build complete neigh r r everyday life with inpu
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• Take our moral obligation to help our community’s most vulnerable members seriously by providing opportunities for success. • Prepare for our transpo t i that will focus on redu
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r t ho is The time has come to p i l embers working hard every day of our community. Let’s make our future better by reducing the inequality in Boulder. Authorized and paid for by Adam Swetlik for Boulder
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 31
Boulder County Issue 5A: Burgundy Park Public Improvement District mill levy increase
bould r city council
ON THE ISSUES HOUSING: B tt r D sign, Mor Fl xibility, L t’s B N ighborly • Create affordable, vibrant, compact and beautiful mixed use developments in some of our commercial and industrial areas. • Fix our ADU process. • Adopt a housing plan with our regional neighbors that includes public/private developers. TRANSPORTATION: Rid If You Can, Driv If You Must, L t’s All G t Along • Don’t make driving painful; let’s make cycling, walking and busing safer, easier and workable for those who can use alternate modes. • Provide Eco-Passes for all city residents. • Partner with our major employers to make in-commuting by bus fast, attractive and convenient. THE MUNI: Mak Our Goal Carbon R duction Now • Refocus our efforts to make Xcel a cleaner, better provider and true partner in our carbon goals. • Join with Denver, Pueblo, et al to maximize our leverage with Xcel. • Redirect our money and efforts to subsidize solar, e-bikes, and other energy efficient options, especially for low/mid income residents. OPEN SPACe: Und r Maintain d, Not Ov rus d • Improve wildlife habitat and user experiences with stronger maintenance and better infrastructure. THE ARTS: Not A Luxury, A N c ssity • Improve support for our arts organizations and facilities while making flexible, affordable and safe live/work spaces for artists.
markforcouncil.com Authorized and paid for by the Mark McIntyre for Boulder City Council Committee / Betsey Martens Treasurer
32 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
What it says: “Shall Burgundy Park Public Improvement District of Boulder County taxes be increased $40,000 (estimate for tax collection year 2019) and thereafter by the dollar amount produced from the levy of an ad valorem property tax imposed at a rate up to 16.597 mills, with the annual tax revenues (regardless of dollar amount) from such mill levy to be used for county road improvement purposes within the district; and, to accelerate the timing for construction of the road improvements, shall the district enter into a multiple-fiscal year obligation in the form of a no-interest loan from Boulder County in an amount not to exceed $460,320, to be paid from the revenues of the tax described above and any other sources of funding legally available to the district; and shall the tax revenues described above, other legally available funding, if any, and the interest earnings thereon constitute a voterapproved revenue change and an exception to the limitations set forth in section 29-1-301 of the Colorado revised statutes or any other limits which may otherwise apply; and shall
Shall Burgundy Park Public Improvement District of Boulder County be organized, all as more particularly set forth in Board of County Commissioners’ resolution 2017-88? What it means: The question asks voters whether to increase a property tax via a mill levy increase that will go toward county road improvements inside the Burgundy Park Public Improvement District of Boulder County. The district will be able to take out a $460,320 no-interest loan from Boulder County to accelerate timing for road work. It is estimated that the tax increase will bring in $40,000 a year. If it passes, it will increase Burgundy Park property taxes by $120 per $100,000. What supporters say: A “yes” vote on this measure is a simple choice between funding reconstruction and ongoing maintenance of Burgundy Park roads, or letting the roads continue to deteriorate. A “yes” vote will result in new roads within two years and full and proper maintenance thereafter. What opponents say: There is no public opposition to this measure.
Boulder Issue 2L: Utility occupation tax increase and extension What it asks: “Shall City of Boulder taxes be increased $4,000,000 annually (in the first year) through an increase of up to that amount in the current utility occupation tax in the year 2018; and $3,000,000 in the year 2019; and shall the portion of the city’s utility occupation tax approved by voters on November 1, 2011, which in 2017 was in the amount of $2,015,710, be extended from its current expiration date of December 31, 2017 through December 31, 2022; and shall the extension and the annual increase in the tax be used to fund costs associated with a municipal electric utility that will support Boulder’s clean energy goals and the community’s commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement, improve system reliability, and create energy-related business opportunities, provided that if the City of Boulder decides not to proceed with a municipal electric utility, the tax shall expire after costs associated with the municipal utility effort are paid; and shall the increased and extended portion of the tax be subject to the same terms and conditions as the original tax and all earnings thereon (regardless of amount) constitute a voter approved revenue change, and an exception to the revenue and spending limits of Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution?” What it means: Should Boulder be afforded $16.5 million from taxpayers for the next three years of staff work related to the city’s push to form a municipal electric utility?
What supporters say: Xcel Energy, the incumbent electric utility in the city, takes from annual profits from Boulder that are about double the amount of money this tax extension proposes to generate in total. The small increases to average residential bills are well worth the investment in a project that promises local control over electricity, and the ability to promote renewable energy sources in Boulder at a much higher rate than Xcel will. Not only can a local utility help the city achieve its climate goals, but it can serve as a model for other communities seeking to take meaningful action at a time when national leadership to fight climate change is sorely lacking. What opponents say: Municipalization has gone on too long, and proved to be too costly, to be worth yet another renewal of the tax funding the effort. Previous taxes have generated enough to cover about $2 million in staff costs every year, while this one asks for even more annual dollars. Boulder has continually underestimated the difficulty of this project and is still many years away from operating a utility even in best-case scenarios. Though the city recently won a partial, conditional approval from regulators to advance the effort, much uncertainty lies ahead. Meanwhile, market forces are pushing Xcel in an increasingly green direction; it’s time to stop fighting them and forge a partnership.
boulder city council
ENDORSEMENTS Elected Officials Now and Then Aaron Brockett Andrew Shoemaker Andy Schultheiss Bob Yates George Karakehian Francoise Poinsatte Jan Burton KC Becker Ken Hotard Leslie Durgin Linda Shoemaker Richard Polk Robin Bohannan Suzy Ageton Will Toor Community Leaders Andria Bilich Angela McCormick Betsey Martens Bryan Bowen David Barrett Fern O’Brien Henry Beer Jason Vogel Kevin Bracy Knight Michelle Estrella Peter Vitale Richard Foy Sue Prant Shelley Dunbar Organizations Daily Camera Better Boulder Engage Boulder Open Boulder FIDOS And Scores More Great Folks
“
Change for the Bet ter
ar is thoughtful and fair, and his background as a small i owner, a champion for affordable housing and an open space advocate will give us the balanced voice we need on Council. -Leslie Durgin, Former Boulder Mayor
He brings a cheerful, optimistic view of modern Boulder that serves as a welcome antidote to the gloom and doom so popular in the local political conversation today. -The Daily Camera Editorial Board
What stands out about Mark is his dedication to Boulder and his openness to all views. He will bring integrity, a willingness to partner with others and a sense of compassion and fair play to the Council. -Suzy Ageton, Former City Council Member
Mark is a strong advocate for a sensible balance of the recreation that connects people of Boulder to their open space and the careful preservation of the ecosystems. He is reasonable, rational, and willing to consider all possibilities. City Council needs more people with these characteristics.
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-Kevin Bracy Knight, Open Space Board of Trustees
Mark’s grandson Cooper at Valmont Bike Park
markforcouncil.com
Authorized and paid for by the Mark McIntyre for Boulder City Council Committee / Betsey Martens Treasurer
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 33
Boulder Issue 2M: Capital improvement tax extension
DEAN
VLACHOS
BVSD School Board Commitment & Creativity in Education Dean is Endorsed by the Boulder Valley Education Assoc. (BVEA) and these Elected and Former Elected Officials: Laurie Albright, Former BVSD School Board President KC Becker, CO State Rep., HD 13, House Majority Leader Jennie Belval, BVSD School Board member Aaron Brockett, Boulder City Council Steve Fenberg, CO State Senator, SD 18 Mike Foote, CO State Rep., HD 12 Stan Garnett, Boulder County D.A. Edie Hooten, CO State Rep., HD 10 Alice Madden, Former CO House Majority Leader Denny McCloskey, Former Broomfield City Council member Tina Mueh, President, BVEA Jean Paxton, Former BVSD School Board member Julie Phillips, Former BVSD School Board President Jim Reed, Former BVSD School Board President Ken Roberge, Former BVSD School Board President Angelika Schroeder, Chair, CO State Board of Education Chuck Sisk, Former Mayor of Louisville, CO Lesley Smith, Former BVSD School Board member
And These Supporters of Public Education: Lorrie Allen Grace Asquith Beth & Jason Baldwin Nicholas Bernhard Shelley & John Bernhard Karen Boelts Elisa Bosley Boulder Area Labor Council, AFL – CIO Tracy Brennan Bobby Brown Fr. Jordan & Pres. Marika Brown Eric Budd Geof Cahoon Pat Carrigan Steve & Louise Christopher Mack Clark Emily CobabeAmmann Willie Culkin Louie & Judy Delaware Sarah DiGiacomo Mary Dineen Fred Donaghy Bruce & Polly Douglass Eric & Sue Erickson Kelly Fano Diana Fields Trisha Fitzpatrick John Fuerst Briggs Gamblin Brenda Garnett Virginia Gebhart Julie & Karl Gelderloos Kevin Gilbert Anne Gooding
Phyllis Gunn John Gunther Amy & Grant Hansen Sally Hatcher Bev Hathaway & Peter Lambert Molly Heins Suzanne & David Hoover Laura & Doug Houston Susan & Ken Jackson Nicole Jeffers Mia Jenak Jackie & Keith Jimmerson Suzanne Kauffman Cathleen Kendall Cheri & Eric King Liz Kois Nancy Kornblum Jennifer Kraemer Tom Kuntsman Andie Kutinsky Merritt & Paul Lealman Anne Lee Huwon Lee Sehee Lee Glenny & Armant Legendre Chris & Natalie Leh Brooke Lindquist Dave & Michelle Megerle Raffi Mercuri Eamonn Morris Terri & Craig Mulford Chris Myatt John & Karen Nielson
Theresa Noland Kenneth Nova Walter & Corrine Olin Michael O’Neill Don Orr Amy Paa-Rogers Donna Patterson Elisabeth & Bal Patterson Carolyn & Charlie Peterson Cassie Peterson Mary Pettigrew Dee Perry Tina Rhynehart Marge Rinaldi Tula Roberge Carolyn & Brad Sclar DiAnn Sherk Anni & Jeff Shively Lisa Shoemaker Luke Skerpon Joe Sleeper Don Stensrud Tammy & David Stewart Zach Strand John Tayer Carol & Steve Thomas Laura & Jeff Uhls Virginia Vlachos Paul & Norma Von Tol David Vollmar Lisa Wade Tracy Warren Bobbie Watson Kathy Wiemer John Zola
VlachosForBVSDSchoolBoard.com Paid for by Vlachos for Boulder Valley School Board, J. Fuerst, Treasurer
34 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
What it asks: “Without raising the existing tax rate, shall the existing community culture and safety sales and use tax of 0.3 cents, scheduled to expire December 31, 2017, be extended to December 31, 2021, with the revenue from such tax extension and all earnings thereon be used to fund city capital improvement projects such as: approximately $12,500,000 to relocate fire station #3; approximately $5,000,000 for library - North boulder branch; approximately $5,500,000 for citywide radio infrastructure replacement; approximately $3,500,000 for Fourmile Canyon Creek greenways improvements — 19th to Broadway; approximately $4,200,000 for Scott Carpenter Pool replacement; and approximately $400,000 for public art; non-profit organization capital improvement projects such as: approximately $87,000 for growing gardens — pollinator pavilion; approximately $822,500 for Community Cycles community cycling center; approximately $1,600,000 for Meals on Wheels new facility construction; approximately $1,750,000 for Studio Arts Boulder — community studio arts education center; approximately $1,400,000 for Center for ReSource Conservation — zero waste community center; approximately $1,250,000 for KGNU — community media center; and approximately $1,000,000 for Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art — museum renovation; any payments from this tax to non-profit organizations shall be made in compliance
with terms, conditions, timing and fundraising matching requirements approved by the Boulder city council; and any remaining funds to be appropriated by the Boulder city council to fund capital improvement program projects; and in connection therewith, shall any earnings from the revenues from such tax extension constitute a voter approved revenue change and an exception to the revenue and spending limits of Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution?” What it means: Voters are being asked to approve a 0.3 percent sales tax extension that would generate about $42 million over four years. The money would go to a mix of capital endeavors, with about three-quarters benefitting city projects, such as the relocation of a fire station and replacement of Scott Carpenter Pool, and the remainder benefitting local nonprofits, including KGNU, Community Cycles and Meals on Wheels. What supporters say: An extension of this relatively small tax will allow for continued growth of critical local services and organizations, thereby improving qualify of life in Boulder. What opponents say: There is no organized opposition to this proposal, but some feel the City Council was irresponsible in its crafting of the extension, because some of the cityside projects shouldn’t be left to the whims of voters. Boulder should budget for upgrades to police radio infrastructure and a failing fire station, not rely on voter support for those things.
Boulder Issue 2N: Debt authority for capital improvement tax What it asks: “Shall City of Boulder debt be increased up to $26,000,000 with a repayment cost of up to $29,000,000 (such amount being the total principal and interest that could be payable over the maximum life of the debt) to be paid from the extension of the community culture and safety sales and use tax of 0.3 cents, if separately approved; such debt to bear interest at a net effective rate not to exceed 4.002 percent per annum and have a maturity date not later than four years from the date any such debt is issued, such debt to be sold at such time and in such manner and to contain such terms, not inconsistent herewith, as the city council may determine, with the proceeds of such debt and earnings thereon being used to fund the following city capital improvement program projects otherwise payable from said sales and use tax; relocation of fire station #3; library — north Boulder branch; citywide radio infrastructure replacement; Fourmile Canyon Creek greenways
improvements — 19th to Broadway; Scott Carpenter Pool replacement; and public art; with any remaining proceeds of such debt and all earnings thereon be used to fund city capital improvement projects that are described in Ordinance 8197 with any remaining funds to be appropriated by the Boulder city council to fund capital improvement program projects; and in connection therewith, shall any earnings from the investment of the proceeds of such debts and the revenues from such tax extension constitute a voter approved revenue change and an exception to the revenue and spending limits of Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution?” What it means: Voters are being asked to authorize increasing the city’s debt to fund capital improvement projects slated to benefit from revenues generated by Issue 2M. What supporters say: This is a necessary supplement to the larger issue that is 2M. What opponents say: There is no organized opposition to this measure.
Boulder Question 2O: Charter requirement for vote before electric construction debt What it asks: “Shall Section 178 of the Charter be amended pursuant to Ordinance 8193 to require a vote at a general or special election prior to the enterprise incurring debt for construction to separate the existing utility system for the City to provide electricity to customers of the City by a separate system?” What it means: Should 2L pass, Boulder will forge ahead in its push to form a municipal electric utility. Next steps after the passage of 2L would involve assessment of how much it’ll actually cost the city to acquire Xcel Energy’s local assets in the interest of establishing a local entity. But this ballot measure, if passed, would require yet another citizen vote before Boulder issued
debt to cover the as-yet-unknown amount needed to formally municipalize. The city believes this vote would take place by 2020. What supporters say: Voters should know that they’ll have one more chance to weigh in before Boulder proceeds with spending in the hundreds of millions. This measure was written in the interest of transparency and community input. What opponents say: There is no organized opposition to this measure, even though there are many who oppose the municipalization project. The reason opponents support this measure is that it would afford them yet another vote, likely in a few years, on whether to move ahead with municipalization.
Boulder Question 2P: Charter provision allowing executive sessions for municipalization What it asks: “Shall Section 9 of the Charter be amended pursuant to Ordinance 8202 to: (1) amend the requirements for notices of executive sessions regarding legal advice and negotiation strategy regarding municipalization to align processes more closely with state law; (2) prohibit any discussions about negotiating a franchise or other settlement discussions that would terminate Boulder’s effort to operate an independent municipal electric utility; and (3) extend the authority to hold executive sessions until December 31, 2023?” What it means: If passed, this measure would extend the City Council’s privilege to meet in executive session to discuss legal strategy related to
municipalization. The council would not be allowed to discuss settlements with Xcel Energy — the incumbent utility against which Boulder’s been fighting — nor would it be allowed to discuss in private any topics unrelated to municipalization. What supporters say: This measure would let the council to continue meeting in private to discuss legal strategy, and that’s a vital tool for success of the municipalization project. What opponents say: Though there’s no doubt it’s helpful for the council to have some space to discuss the many thorny strategic matters involved in municipalization, the fact that council members would no longer be able to discuss settlements and franchise agreements in private renders this measure largely useless.
A SHARED VISION FOR TOMORROW We’ve joined forces to elect city council members who will listen to the community, not just the special interests and big money. Please vote for the following candidates who will preserve our sense of place and natural environment.
Sam Weaver
SAM4COUNCIL.WORDPRESS.COM
• PLAN-Boulder County • Save South Boulder
Mary Young
YOUNGFORCOUNCIL.ORG
Cindy Carlisle
CARLISLEFORCOUNCIL.COM
• Greater Gunbarrel • Martin Acres Neighborhood Association • Table Mesa Neighborhood Association • Uni Hill and Friends • Whittier United • South East Boulder Neighborhood Association • Neighbors of 3303 Broadway
John Gerstle
JOHNGERSTLEFORBOULDER.COM
Mirabai Nagle
NAGLEFORCOUNCIL.ORG
Boulder Question 2Q: Charter cleanup
COMMUNITY GROUPS & BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT THESE CANDIDATES:
• Boulder Neighborhood Alliance • Palo Parkway Petitioners • Friends of Lower Chautauqua • East Boulder Leadership Committee • Perry’s Shoe Shop • Cafe Blue ... and many others.
COMMUNITY LEADERS WHO SUPPORT THESE CANDIDATES: What it asks: “Shall Sections 8, 22, 29, 37, 38B, 39, 41, 43, 48, 63, 68, 72 and 73 of the Charter be amended as specifically set forth in Ordinance 8195 including to: (1) remove obsolete provisions; (2) eliminate timelines for election related matters that conflict with state laws; (3) clarify when council vacancy elections are required; (4) clarify that initiative and referendum relate only to legislative matters; and (5) authorize signature verification and protests of petitions?” What it means: Voters are being
asked to support a series of minor language tweaks to the city charter, none of which are expected to have significant impact on policy. What supporters say: This is effectively a cleanup of some legal language in the city charter. It will clarify sections that need updating without interfering with city operations in any noteworthy ways. What opponents say: There is no organized opposition to this measure.
Lisa Morzel, Boulder City Council Member Susan Osborne, Former Mayor and City Council Member Linda Jourgenson, Former Mayor and City Council Member Ruth Wright, Author of the Height Limit and Former Legislator Former City Council Members: Crystal Gray, Steve Pomerance, Spence Havlick, Allyn Feinberg, Dick Harris Pat Shanks, Former Boulder County Planning Commission Molly Greacen, Co-Founder of Bee Safe Boulder Julie Colo, owner of the former North Boulder Cafe Alli Fronzaglia, Founder, Boulder Hiker Chicks … and lots more.
www.tg4b.org Paid for by Together4Boulder
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 35
Lafayette Issue 2A: Open space tax extension
“Cindyprimary understa “Cindy’s inter the neighborhoods... always been the peo.. and that Boulder Boulder. She is is comot t listening andoppo represu n in to sustainability, our environmen views in the ci s and decision-making.” preservation. - Allyn Feinberg, former City Council – JUSTIN GOLD, FOUND
CarlisleForCouncil.com
ENGAGEMENT
Ensure the citizens have a voice; that the Council’s decisions are based on accurate information, early public involvement, and evaluating all implications. I’m committed to sustaining our height limits, multimodal transportation, and Open Space.
AFFORDABILITY
Make the inclusionary housing program more effective and robust; guarantee impact and linkage fees on new development adequately offset the costs imposed on our community; protect space for small, local businesses.
What it says: “Without increasing any tax rate, shall the city of Lafayette’s existing 0.25% sales and use tax for open space, known as the Legacy Tax or as the Legacy Open Space Tax, that is currently scheduled to expire on December 31, 2024, be extended indefinitely, with the revenue from the Legacy Open Space Tax to continue to be used specifically (1) for the purpose of acquisition by the City of land for use as open space, with the decision as to what particular parcels of land, in what locations, and in what priority to be made by the City Council; and (2) for the purpose of maintenance by the City of its open space lands, and, in conjunction therewith, to pay bonds or multiplefiscal year financial obligations for either of such purposes; and with the revenue from the Legacy Open Space Tax and any investment earnings thereon to constitute a voter-approved revenue and spending change under, to be collected and spent each year without limitation by the revenue and spending limits of, and without limiting the collection or spending of other revenues or funds by the City under, Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution or any other law?” What it means: This ballot item is
asking residents to approve an indefinite extension of the city’s Legacy Open Space tax — a 25 percent increase in the city’s sales and use tax rate used to acquire open space first approved in 1999 and set to expire at the end of 2024. An approval wouldn’t mean a new tax for Lafayette residents. What supporters say: The original sales tax increase was a small price to pay for funding open space acquisitions, an essential tool for what officials frequently call Lafayette’s mission to provide a buffer between neighboring communities; a permanent extension of the tax is the next logical step for the city’s self preservation. What opponents say: The legacy tax has never been a cure-all for the city’s highest open space priorities. In many cases, the tax has fallen short of preserving boundaries, which is most evidence in the city’s losing battle with Erie over its continued encroachment on Lafayette borders, blurring city lines with a bevy of new marketplaces right on the city’s doorstep. Extending the tax should only be a part of the city’s efforts to repurpose funds for open space purchases. A ballot item for this should include new options.
CLIMATE
Lower carbon emissions from our local energy supply by switching to renewables; reduce consumption of fossil fuels by improving mass transit, use of e-vehicles and bicycles; increase energy efficiency in our built environment and get to zero waste. Endorsed by : Sierra Club • PLAN-Boulder • Together4Boulder Margaret Alfonso Paul Alter Sharyl Artino Len Barron Diane Bedell Frank Beer John Behrendt Shelly Benford Ben Binder Ruth Blackmore Arlene Blewitt David Bolduc Alan Boles Joan Brett Ray Bridge Martha Brown Marsha Budz Alison Burchell Geof Cahoon Duncan Campbell Evan Cantor Judy Cardell Cindy Carey Vivian Cecil Cathy Comstock Kirk Cunningham Alan Delamere Betty Devine Gwen Dooley Carole Driver John Driver Susan Douglass Barbara Engle Allyn Feinberg Steve Fenberg Anne Fenerty Jeffrey Flynn Leora Frankel Audrey F. Franklin Andy Franklin Peter Freymuth Nancy Fritch Kurt Fuhrman Mia Fuhrman
John Gerstle Carol Glen Don Glen Leslie Glustrom Justin Gold Nancee Gold Molly Greacen Al Gunter Christy Gunter Marcelee Gralapp Crystal Gray Linda Haertling Viola Haertling Ava Hamilton Catharine Harris Dick Harris Lisa Harris Mardy Nelson Harrold Betsy Heppner Chris C. Hoffman Tim Hogan Karen Hollweg Terry Holum Rachel Homer Edie Hooton Charles Howe Joanne Howe Dickey Lee Hullinghorst Stephen R. Jones Linda Jourgensen Joseph Juhasz Larry Kaptein William Karelis Mireille Key Jim Knopf Nancy Kornblum Thom Krueger Marilyn Krysl Sue Larson Eric Lombardi Barbara Magill Nicky Marone Mike Marsh Leonard May
Lyra Mayfield Carroll McCorkle Alice McDonald Don McDonald Joe McDonald Phil McEvoy Jeff McWhirter LeRoy Moore Tom Moore Axson Morgan Bryan Morgan Jim Morris Lisa Morzel Mirabai Nagle Rivvy Neshama Christie Northrop Donnie Novak Darren O’Connor Paula Palmer Deirdre Parker David Paule Liz Payton Steve Pomerance Mary Price Alison Richards Hollie Rogin Les Ronick Sharon Rosall Dorothy Rupert Heather Ryan Karen Sandburg Tom Sanford Cassie Saltrese Sandra Saltrese-Miller S. P. Schneider Sally Schneider Mike Schreiner Mary Scott Ilan Sebba Brad D. Segal Lynn Segal Pat Shanks Sarah Silver Sharon Simmons
Mitch Smith Sandra Snyder Filip Sokol Laura Spalding Lisa Spalding Emily Spielman John Spitzer Renee St. Aubin Charlie Stein Clyda Stafford Edie Stevens Randi Stroh Kurt Swingle David Thayer Ann Tagawa Sharon Tuke Ron Tupa Mark Wallach Steven Walsh Vincent Wayland Sam Weaver Bob Wells Greg Wilkerson Ken Wright Ruth Wright David Yaffe Deborah Yin
Boulder Neighborhood Alliance East Boulder Leadership Committee Greater Gunbarrel Martin Acres Neighborhood Assoc. Save South Boulder Southeast Boulder Neighborhoods Assoc. Table Mesa Neighborhood Assoc.
AUTHORIZED AND PAID FOR BY CINDY CARLISLE FOR COUNCIL
36 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
Lafayette Issue 2B: Storage tax What it asks: “Shall the city of Lafayette’s taxes be increased by $180,000 annually in the first full fiscal year (2018) and by whatever amounts are raised annually thereafter, by the imposition of an excise tax on the rental of indoor or outdoor storage space, or the sale of storage services, with such tax being imposed at the rate of 3.5% of the price paid for storage or storage services, and the proceeds used to fund programs of the city that promote and advance cultural arts, historic preservation and local history museums, including the miners museum; and with the revenue from such tax and any investment earnings thereon to constitute a voter-approved revenue and spending change under, to be collected and spent each year without limitation by
the revenue and spending limits of, and without limiting the collection or spending of other revenues or funds by the city under, Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution or any other law?” What it means: This would allow a 3.5 percent excise tax on indoor or outdoor storage facility rentals and services in Lafayette to pay for programs in the city like historic preservation efforts and cultural arts. What supporters say: An excise tax on the rental of indoor or outdoor storage space, or the sale of storage services, is an equitable means to finance the increased burden on the city budget. What opponents say: The measure is an unfair way to channel taxes from Lafayette residents.
Lafayette Issue 2C: Street improvement revenue bonds What it says: “Shall the city of Lafayette’s debt be increased $9,000,000 with a repayment cost of $10,400,000, (the maximum amount of principal and interest to be paid over the life of the debt) or such lesser amount as may be necessary, without any increase whatsoever in the rate of any city tax for the purpose of paying this debt, for the purposes of (1.) repairing and improving existing city streets; (2.) acquiring, installing or completing traffic and safety control devices; and (3.) repairing and improving existing public parking lots, together with all necessary, incidental and related facilities, equipment, land and easements; By the issuance of revenue bonds or multiple-fiscal year financial obligations to be payable from the revenues of the city allowed by the city’s home rule charter, to mature, be subjects to redemption, with or without premium, and to be issued, dated and sold at, above or below par, in one or more
series, and at such time or times and in such manner and containing such terms not inconsistent herewith, as the city council may determine; and in connection therewith to collect and spend the proceeds of such debt and any earnings from the investment of such proceeds without limitation by the revenue and spending limits of, and without affecting the city’s ability to collect and spend any other revenues or funds under Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution or any other law?” What it means: Should the city’s debt be increased for street improvement projects and repairing or improving public parking lots? What supporters say: This would improve and repair city streets, better ensuring the safety of Lafayette residents without increasing any city tax. What opponents say: There is no known opposition.
Ballot Question 2D: Compensation of mayors, councilors What it says: “Shall Section 4.3 of the Lafayette Home Rule Charter be amended to provide that in the absence of an ordinance setting compensation for the Lafayette City Council, the monthly compensation for members of the Lafayette City Council shall be increased or decreased, in all even-numbered years, by the same collective percentage rates as the budgeted compensative adjustments provided to the general employees of the City for the immediate two calendar years?” What it means: This item asks if Lafayette City Council’s monthly compensation should be increased or
decreased in even-numbered years by the same amount as the employees of the city has been adjusted. What supporters say: This measure would better regulate how City Council members are compensated, ensuring that leaders couldn’t give themselves big raises, like in 2015 when City Council voted to give itself a 65 percent raise. What opponents say: Lafayette City Council is already paid handsomely, and a potentially steady increase in compensation over the next several years could put Lafayette’s public servant pay higher than necessary.
Lafayette Question 2E: Residential growth management What it asks: “Shall the existing residential growth management restrictions of Chapter VI of the Lafayette Home Rule Charter be amended to extend and retain the aggregate building permit cap for the six (6) year period between January 1, 2019, to January 1, 2025, and to remove from its restrictions developments that restrict at least 40% of the dwelling units as affordable dwelling units?” What it means: This ballot item is asking residents to extend a clause that allocates 1,200 residential building permits to the city over a six-year period as a way to check unmanaged growth. The amendment would go into effect Jan. 1, 2019, when the current initiative expires. This year’s iteration includes exceptions for certain affordable housing projects. For example, a development with at least “40 percent designated for affordable housing” would be exempt from per-
mit allocations. What supporters say: A check on growth is essential to preserving Lafayette’s “small town” feel, a goal made all the more salient by Boulder County’s housing boom quickly reverberating eastward. Officials are constantly staring down growth that calls for more dense, multi-family living, labeled by some locals as “ urban sprawl.” What opponents say: While residential growth management is a necessary function of small-town government in theory, exemptions such as the ones proposed in this amended update render the process useless. A snapshot of growth in the city — projected through 2018 — shows almost 1,700 permits are to be issued. In the current six-year period, according to officials, only 128 out of the allocated 1,200 permits have been used; the rest have fallen under exempt status.
• Boulder native • Volunteer firefighter • Gunbarrel resident • Small business owner I’ll advocate for: • Boulder residents having a greater voice in growth and development issues. • Keeping Boulder viable for middle and lower income residents. • Environmental stewardship, including: -Protecting Open Space -Effectively Addressing Climate Change
Mirabai Nagle, volunteer firefighter
Mirabai’s endorsers include: • Edie Hooten, Colorado State Representative, HD-10 • Josie Heath, former Boulder County Commissioner • Sam Weaver, Boulder Councilmember • Lisa Morzel, Boulder Councilmember • Mary Young, Boulder Councilmember • Cindy Carlisle, former Boulder City Councilmember • Crystal Gray, Boulder Planning Board member • John Gerstle, former Boulder Planning Board member • Steve Pomerance, former Boulder City Councilmember • Michael Badertscher, Fire Chief • Richard Estep, Paramedic • Southeast Boulder Neighborhood Assoc. • Table Mesa Neighborhood Assoc. • Martin Acres Neighborhood Assoc. • East Boulder Leadership Council • Together 4 Boulder • Boulder Weekly • Boulder Area Labor Council • PLAN Boulder County • and many others.
www.NagleforCouncil.org Authorized and paid for by Nagle for Council. A copy of our report is on file with the City Clerk of the City of Boulder, Colo.
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 37
Change starts in your community.
38 • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE
BROOMFIELD MAYOR
Randy Ahrens Website: RandyAhrensBroomfieldMayor.com Age: 60 Family: spouse, Wendy; daughters Amy Ahrens, Ashley Ahrens, Jordan Godwin How long have you lived in Broomfield: Moved to Broomfield in 1966. Professional Background: Engineer for Gearhart Owens 1980-86, sales manager at Storm Products 1986-91, founded Frontier Components 1991-present Political Experience: Worked on Citizens for Better Local Government, the group that created the City and County of Broomfield. City Council Member Ward 4, 2001-2009, Broomfield Mayor from 2013-present Education: Broomfield High School 1975, Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Chemical Engineering from Colorado State University 1979 What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? My first ordinance on council was to prohibit homes from being platted over plugged and abandoned wells and for the removal of gas flowlines in 2002. As a result, what happened in Firestone should not happen in Broomfield. Health and safety is my priority in any conversation dealing with oil- and gas-related issues. I con-
T.J. Cole Website: coleforcolorado.com Age: 52 Family: Yes I have one, and they are awesome. How long have you lived in Broomfield: Four years Professional background: Judge, lawyer, professor, author, principal, reserve officer, varsity coach, father Political/community experience: Civil Rules Committee, Magistrate Rules Committee, Precinct Captain District 11, Anti-Apartheid Committee, Pikes Peak MH Board Education: Juris doctorate law, Ph.D. Secondary education, honorary Ph.D. humanities, master of arts international politics, master of arts judicial studies bachelor of arts political science, certificate post secondary counseling What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? I have great concerns about oil and gas development in Broomfield, because I do not believe that as of today they adequately promote and protect the health and safety of the people of Broomfield, and they are not utilizing best practices across the board. Our people and homes need to be protected. While state statutes and policy favor utilization of our natural resources, I believe the people’s health and safety, and the protection of our environment must be maximized. Both can coexist if done appropriately. When I am elected mayor, I will lead the negotiations on the memorandum of understanding and intergovernmental agreement. While there are preemption issues, I believe that there are specific areas of the Colorado Constitution and Colorado case law that allow municipalities room to regulate industries located in their area. We must
cur with the citizen task force recommendations and promise to advocate for them. I have never supported drilling near our future reservoir. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/ attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? I supported the creation of the housing task force and championed the creation of an ordinance allowing developers the right to fix construction issues prior to litigation. This allows for more condos to be constructed in Broomfield. I believe the dialogue should be around workforce housing, with council investigating methodologies to achieve those goals by allowing denser housing through modification to building codes. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? I’m working on the collaboration to make sure the Adams 12 Five Star Schools, Butterfly Pavilion and the proposed north annex to the city library come to fruition. I will continue the coalition I started for transportation improvements on Colo. 7. I plan to continue working on West Connect to improve the options between U.S. 36 and I-70 and to complete the metro highway loop. Working with the city’s economic development team, I was able to bring businesses into Broomfield like IKEA, Viega, JAX, SCL Health, JP Morgan Chase, Swiss Log and Partners Group. If re-elected, these efforts will continue. I support our 40 percent open land goal to increase our open space inventory and add to our 283 miles of trails. Additionally, I will work to expand recreational facilities and activities, including more bike parks for kids.
put the people first even if that means challenging the powers that be. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/ attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? Affordable housing is not just about poor, or low-income people being able to live here. This about policemen, firemen, city workers and senior citizens being able to live here. 1. Enhance the standing committee on housing that collaborates with the Broomfield Housing Coalition, and other concerned groups to keep the ideas flowing and work on solutions in collaboration with metro area groups. I will prioritize this. 2. Establish a volunteer grant office that writes grants to help seniors and other low income folks to stay in their homes. 3. Establish a neighborhood improvement team program. a. Help keep yards maintained and properties looking good. b. The NIT will breed neighborhood camaraderie and it will establish confidence for landlords to keep rents stable because of reduced costs to maintain property. They will get help only as needed and via an established procedure. 4. Encourage developers to help provide a percentage of affordable housing with new developments. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? In addition to normal council business, I see these major projects that I would like to pursue: 1. Increasing our police department by 24 officers 2. Developing an excellent civic center 3. Continued development of North Park and the U.S. 36 corridor 4. Next Generation Initiative
Broomfield ballot issue 301: Oil and gas health effects What it asks: “Shall Section 2.1(b), “Powers, Rights, and Liabilities” of the Broomfield Home Rule Charter be amended to add the following language? With regard to oil and gas development near the City’s populated areas and within the City’s boundaries, such powers shall include but not be limited to plenary authority to regulate all aspects of oil and gas development, including land use and all necessary police powers. As such, Broomfield shall condition oil and gas development permits to require oil and gas development to only occur in a manner that does not adversely impact the health, safety, and welfare of Broomfield’s residents in their workplaces, their homes, their schools, and public parks in order to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare and to safeguard the environment and wildlife resources.” What it means: It is meant to mirror the language of the Martinez v. Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission case from earlier this year that says protection of public health and the environment is “a condition that must be fulfilled” by the state before oil and gas drilling can be done. Ballot issue 301 seeks to codify similar language to ensure that health and safety is a part of all decisions when it comes to oil and gas development in Broomfield. What supporters say: Proponents say the measure adds language that the local government shall condition its approval of oil and gas development in a manner that does not impact health, safety, and welfare of Broomfield’s residents. What opponents say: A group opposing the measure says the measure is “flatly illegal” and will subject Broomfield “to years of costly legal battles.” Broomfield legal counsel has said the language, if passed, will be challenged.
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BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 1 operations in the entire country. Broomfield has shown again that we are leaders in health, safety, and environmental sustainability, and we can all be proud of the work that the task force did and council Website: LizInWard1.com adopted. I support implementing as Age: 56 Family: husband, John, daughter, Lily; many of the recommendations as we can. son, Alex; and daughter-in-law, Hannah How does Broomfield effectively proHow long have you lived in Broomfield: vide affordable/attainable housing in a All my life. Professional background: Owned and timely manner, and what is council’s role operated successful community-oriented in that? In the late 1950s, when my parents small business for 20-plus years in local moved to what is now Broomfield, their real estate. home was the first new build in 20 years. Political/community experience: Times have changed, and over the last Extensive, including 20 years we have seen home prices rise boards of Broomfield at a rate far faster than wages. BroomFISH and the Broomfield is a “victim” of its own success as field Chamber of Commore people want to live here! Council merce; Sustainable established the citizen-led housing adviBroomfield Community sory committee in early 2017 to survey Task Force, church/ what housing types are in urgent need school/scouts volunteer(for example, entry-level owner-occuing. Heart of Broomfield pied) and research the best ideas from Award 2009. around the country as to how they could Education: Broomfield High School 1979, Bachelor of Arts University of Den- be applied to Broomfield. Once we have that information and those ideas we can ver, Master of Arts University of Utah, all engage in a wider community discusPh.D. Colorado State University sion as to which ideas should be impleWhat is your stance on oil and gas mented and how they should be funded. production, fracking and pipelines in What issues or projects need to come Broomfield? to council’s attention? If I had the authority to vote against Council’s priorities are and should be allowing oil and gas production in Broomfield neighborhoods, I would. The based on what the citizens need, not what individual council members think. Colorado Legislature has kept that authority for themselves rather than del- council’s 2017 priorities include some highly visible and some “under the egating it to municipal governments. radar” topics including ensuring longSeven months ago, City Council conterm water supplies, finishing the civic vened a citizen-led task force to update center project, expanding housing the comprehensive plan for oil and gas. It focused on health and safety and their opportunities, continue economic development, improving the transportation work was data-driven and done in an incredibly transparent manner, with each network, studying the possibility of broadband internet, and, of course, meeting recorded and put online. The implementing as much as possible of the resulting plan amendment is, I believe, the most comprehensive look at protect- oil and gas comprehensive plan amendment. ing health and safety during oil and gas
Elizabeth Law-Evans
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James Marsh-Holschen Website: james4broomfieldward1.com Age: 39 Family: wife, Alexis, and children James, 16, Ethan, 13, Luna, 15, and Virginia, 2 How long have you lived in Broomfield: four years Professional background: Anti-Money Laundering Analyst for Promontory Risk Review, a division of IBM Political/community experience: No elected experience, but volunteered for multiple campaigns. Volunteer with Longmont Community Justice Partnership since 2014, member of Adams 12 Parent Leadership Committee, 20152017. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Bachelor of Arts in Economics, both from Eastern Washington University. Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? Oil and gas development is inherently dangerous and large-scale industrial development does not belong anywhere near our homes and schools. The tragedy in Firestone was human error. As human error is impossible to control for 100 percent, it is negligent to allow it in such close proximity to our families. As the technology exists for horizontal drilling large distances underground, the only reason to place it so close to residential areas is for the profit of the industry. Council’s job is to protect the health and safety of the community, not further line the pockets of a multi-billion dollar industry. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a
timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? Affordable housing is not just an issue that affects the poor. Our hardworking firefighters, police, teachers, and civil servants can no longer afford to live in the community they serve. Unfortunately, this is a complex issue and there are no simple solutions. Building an attainable community means all stakeholders must work together to address this crisis. Council must be the leader of this effort, partnering with both city agencies and our community allies to find sustainable solutions. The city has established a housing advisory committee. While this is a good first step, the danger is it becomes little more than window dressing on this crisis without a greater commitment of resources and autonomy from council. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? Building a Better Broomfield through proactive, innovative leadership. This means having a vision for Broomfield which embraces change and the opportunities and challenges it brings. Building a Better Broomfield involves a Broomfield Town Square, centered around local, small businesses not corporate chain stores. It involves generating economic development by building the infrastructure of the next generation, a city-wide, cityowned, fiber optic broadband network. Building a Better Broomfield means no longer settling for a “that’s how we do things” attitude, rather, it means proactively planning for the infrastructure and educational needs of the future rather than playing catch up with the needs of the past. Broomfield is growing rapidly, and proactive, innovative leadership requires embracing the future while meeting the needs of all members of the community, not just the well-connected few.
BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 2
Sharon Tessier Family: My loving partner of 22 years is Joshua. We have two children: 13 and 8. How long have you lived in Broomfield: Nine years in Broomfield, 20 years along the Front Range. Professional background: Faculty at Metropolitan State University of Denver for 16 years in the Health Professions Department Political/community experience: Extensive volunteer record, plus 2013 — Current Broomfield City Councilwoman Education: Bachelor of science in education, master of arts in holistic health education, master of science in psychology. Currently back at school to finish
my Ph.D. in psychology with emphasis on building community relations. What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? Our current state laws need to be both updated and shifted from their oppressive nature to one of empowerment for local jurisdictions. Broomfield has done a significant amount of work to maximize health safety and welfare of residents. We still have a long way to go. We have to approach this issue with discernment about what we can pursue legally and what boundaries we can challenge with evidence based and current research. The Environmental Protection Agency, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment and the Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission must review the data from Broomfield’s oil and gas task force. We must continue building relationships with state leadership and continue
opening new avenues to discuss oil and gas without polarizing the issue. We are blessed to have a strong, smart, and engaged community in Broomfield that can extend to our neighbors along the Front Range to join us in our efforts to pursue health and safety for all Colorado residents. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? The fact that council put together a housing advisory team speaks volumes about the recognition and acknowledgment of the housing disparity gap. Results from the housing needs assessment will be available in late fall, which will provide direction for and finding solutions to fill those needs. The Herculean efforts of the Broomfield Housing Opportunity Coalition must be mentioned. They have worked tirelessly together to inform and advocate for
innovative and collaborative ways to approach our housing crisis and get the ball rolling in Broomfield. Variety is truly the spice of life and we have to foster that inclusivity. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? We must build resilient communities because it is a moral responsibility. Within a resilient community one will find the following: a. Spaces for seniors to age in place with dignity. b. Sustainability happening in every conversation between residents and city council. c. Transportation, mobility and walkability. d. Awareness and achievement of mental health and wellness, and ways to obliterate the stigma around mental illness. e. The water Broomfield firmed up has to stay clean and available for human consumption.
and gas development or any large industrial operation. We should not back down simply because threat of lawsuit or court challenge. We must do everything we can to protect our residents and our environment. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is councils role in that? We must be willing to have a full community conversation concerning affordable housing and seeking a full spectrum solution to the affordability of Broomfield. Currently there is a group of faith leaders and nonprofit organizations driving the conversation on affordability which initiated the creation of the Housing Advisory Committee and a housing research study. The Broomfield Housing Opportunity Coalition states we are at crisis point with this situation. We
must ramp up our conversation of this issue, look at how our neighboring municipalities are solving these problems, seek “out of the box ideas” such as accessory dwelling units and even the tiny house movement. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? We must continue to maintain and update our existing transportation network to ensure safety of motorists and pedestrians/bicyclists. At the same time, we are moving from a drivebased culture to a ride-based culture. We are owed Fast Tracks dollars in Broomfield and if a rail line does come north, we are owed a stop in our community. But whether we have Bus Rapid Transit on U.S. 36, Colo. 7, or rail coming north, the challenge for our community will continue to be closing the distance from people’s work and homes to the transit stop.
BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 3
Deven Shaff Website: Deven4Broomfield.com Age: 36 Family: Married to Cori Shaff, 5-year-old son, 3-year-old daughter How long have you lived in Broomfield: Nearly 10 years Professional background: Central City Opera, then Dairy Center for the Arts in Boulder. Helped rebuild the Conference on World Affairs at the University of Colorado. Political/community experience: Former chair/current member of Broomfield Cultural Council. Member of Civic Center Focus Group, SCFD Reauthorization Task-Force and Den-
ver Public Schools Arts Resource Council. Education: Bachelor of Arts Music, Education Minor from College of Idaho; Master of Music Colorado State University What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? Large operations of any kind, especially oil and gas development, have no place in our residential neighborhoods, next to our schools, or near our water sources. We are at the point where we must use every tool to stand against this powerful industry while bringing our fight to the state. We must use the comprehensive plan goals as minimum standards to stand on, not with which to negotiate. We must pass Initiative 301 to first ensure public health and safety before any decision is made with regard to oil
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BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 3
JAN BURTON for BOULDER The Daily Camera says:
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Rick Fernandez Website: ricktfernandez.com Age: 44 Family: wife, Sheryl Fernandez; daughter, Kylie Fernandez; and parents Richard and Glenna Fernandez How long have you lived in Broomfield: My entire life. Professional background: More than 20 years working in telecommunications. Currently director of product management and responsible for defining business solutions for some of the largest operators in the United States and world. Political/community experience: Chairman of the Broomfield Republicans from 2012 to 2017. Coached daughter’s soccer and softball teams. Currently serve on the Broomfield Salvation Army’s Advisory Board. Education: Graduated Broomfield High School, University of Colorado Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Computer Information Systems What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? Broomfield has always treated health and safety as a top priority. This is reflected through the work completed by Broomfield’s Comprehensive Plan Update Committee on Oil and Gas. I support the committee’s process to reach its recommendations for amending Broomfield’s Comprehensive Plan. We must acknowledge that energy production is a statewide concern, as reaffirmed by the State Supreme Court in May 2016. At the same time, industry technology continues to advance beyond what is contemplated in state law. Colorado’s statutes and rules regarding property rights, including statutory pooling laws, must be revisited. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conser-
vation Commission must be accountable for its lack of urgency and effectiveness in enforcing its regulations. Broomfield has demonstrated we can work to reach responsible solutions without putting our city at legal or financial risk. We should strive to continue this approach. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? Housing affordability is dictated by market supply and demand, which is reflected in the cost of rent and home prices that are paid by individuals and families. City Council’s role is to create conditions that let the market work. The Council should minimize the time, costs, taxes, and fees required to build in Broomfield, and further reduce the negative impacts of frivolous construction defect litigation that hampers multi-unit development. Our community can provide a great opportunity for property owners and nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity to partner and bring quality affordable housing to Broomfield. We should encourage these partnerships. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? Broomfield must be fiscally responsible while providing for public safety, roads, open space, parks, and city operations. Increasing costs on families through special projects does Broomfield a disservice. We must continue to address our transportation needs. Families should able to get to soccer practices, Girl Scout meetings, and other events on their schedule, not a bus schedule. We should complete improvements to 144th Avenue and Colo. 7 to prepare for the anticipated growth. Broomfield needs to remain open for business. Unfortunately, we are gaining the reputation as a city where it is difficult to do business. We need to get back to welcoming businesses with open arms, not arbitrary conditions or hurdles.
BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 4 unteer as a board of director on Senior Resources of Broomfield and have more than 20 years of volunteering in youth organizations and schools. Website: Groom4Ward4.com Education: Bachelor of Science busiAge: 48 ness management; Master of Science Family: two sons: Kyle (19) and Ryan environmental management and policy; M.S. computer information systems. (17) What is your stance on oil & gas proHow long have you lived in Broomfield: duction, fracking and pipelines in 44 years Broomfield? Professional backI support the current process initiated ground: 26 years in corby the city to develop oil and gas “operporate leadership roles ating standards” for doing business in as a Program Manager Broomfield. There are 11 council memwithin four industries: bers, 15 task force members, and Environmental Remedinumerous city staff supporting the soluation, Information Systion. Each of these are smart and tems, Aerospace and engaged leaders on this subject. BroomDefense, and Food and Beverage. field has already confirmed operational Political/Community Experience: I volagreements well above the state of Colo-
Kimberly Groom
industrial activity. Please do not accept the idea that is being pushed through our community by outside interests that there is nothing we can do to stop Website: VoteDevine.com residential fracking. That is simply not true. Age: 45 It is extremely important that curFamily: wife, Maura, and two chilrent council continue to work on regudren ages 5 and 9 lations that protect health and safety How long have you lived in Broomand that no new MOUs are signed field: Two years in Broomfield and until all other options are utilized. almost 20 in Colorado How does Broomfield effectively proProfessional background: Business owner specializing in digital marketing vide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s Political/community role in that? experience: VolunAffordable housing is a particularly teered for Yes on 3D important issue because we are facing bond campaign, founda potential crisis where many resiing member of the dents cannot afford to live or remain Metro West Dental in Broomfield. We should be working Institute, sponsor of diligently to create more options, espeannual Colorado Sumcially for our public servants. We also mer Orthodontic Meeting, and Sponsor of the Colorado need to create incentives for builders and landlords to provide more affordOrthodontic Foundation. able housing options as Broomfield Education: Bachelor of Science in continues to grow. Marketing with Computer Science minor from John Wiley Jones School What issues or projects need to come of Business at SUNY Geneseo to council’s attention? What is your stance on oil and gas I would like to see further expanproduction, fracking and pipelines in sion and incentives for small businessBroomfield? es and entrepreneurs in the places where we already have development. I’m glad to see that the city has Small business owners are the bread been successful in bringing a Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commis- and butter of any community and Broomfield has a wealth of innovative sion hearing to Broomfield, and has people who are building their busiprotested the most recent spacing nesses outside the city. I plan to work applications. The intersection of resiwith them to find ways to keep them dential neighborhoods and fracking has reached a critical point in Broomhere and create increased revenue field and we need to protect our neigh- and improved services for Broomfield borhoods and schools from this heavy residents.
Brian Devine
rado regulations. As a representative of Ward 4, I will use my environmental education and experience along with in-depth knowledge of the current process to provide informed, fact-based decisions to protect health and safety of residents and the environment. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? I support home ownership as there is a pride in owning your own home, and that pride equates to community pride. A significant majority of the affordable housing projects sponsored by local government do not have favorable leanings. I think the council’s role is to provide some incentives to developers willing to set aside affordable units, but not fund affordable housing projects. The biggest bang to impact this social issue
Jason Anderson Website: jasonforward4.com Age: 45 Family: Married with five kids How long have you lived in Broomfield: Three years Professional background: Director of Project Management, Engineering Management, Engineering. Political/community experience: Boy Scout volunteer, Habitat for Humanity, Food Share, Crime Stoppers. Education: Bachelor of Science Electrical Engineering What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? I believe that health and safety of residents is top priority related to any proposed industrial development. We need to have adequate setbacks, air quality monitoring, and safety checks in place for any proposed oil and gas operation. I believe the updated comprehensive plan, which includes provisions for oil and gas, is vital to defining local regulations for operators in Broomfield and we need to uphold the plan in its entirety for all current and
is working with the state regarding the construction defect laws to allow a larger supply of condos and townhomes less than $250,000 into our community. Government-supplemented rent for affordable housing doesn’t bring home ownership pride into our community. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? While walking Ward 4 and talking to residents these last few weeks, the second major issue facing Broomfield is transportation infrastructure, more specifically getting residents through their morning and afternoon commutes. Broomfield has spent millions to address this issue, yet it isn’t fast enough. I would like to have more aggressive roadway expansions projects and timelines so that infrastructure can catch up to population growth.
future operators. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? I think the key to affordable housing is ensuring a sufficient supply versus demand. Some communities have limited growth ordinances and inclusionary zoning, which hinder affordable housing by restricting the supply of housing and constraining builders’ ability to adapt to new development opportunities. We need to carefully consider proposed developments and make sure they contribute to the best overall housing solution and provide a good balance between single and multifamily, affordable housing options. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? I think transportation including traffic infrastructure and planning is important, as well as revitalizing downtown with the ongoing civic center planning. Transportation planning is vital as we’re seeing pretty significant congestion during peak hours. We need to take a long-term view of our roadways to ensure future development is proactively supported. We have a unique opportunity to revitalize downtown and it’s important we consider multiple options that balance the character, culture and economic impact that we need.
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BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 4
Susan Speece Website: speece4broomfield.com Age: 72 Family: Son, Ryan Speece, Milan, Mich. Daughter Nicole Laiho, Louisville. How long have you lived in Broomfield: 2.4 years Professional background: Chaired Biology Department, Anderson University; Dean of Mathematics, Science and Engineering, Fresno City College; Chancellor Penn State Berks in Reading, Penn. Political/community experience: Governor’s task force Indiana Science Standards. Chair’s Advisory Council: developed the National Science Education and Assessment Standards. Governor’s Council of Science and Technology in California, Anthem West Municipal District Board. Broomfield Oil and Gas Update Committee. Education: Professional background: B.S. and M.S. biology and chemistry, Purdue University, Ed.D, education and biology, Ball State University, postdoctoral in protein biochemistry, Purdue University. What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? I am honored to have served on the Broomfield Oil and Gas Comprehensive Plan Update Committee. The chapter we created and that was approved by council creates standards and protocols that will protect the health, safety and welfare of all Broomfield residents in the event of oil and gas development. The city is in negotiations with Extrac-
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tion Oil and Gas Inc., and I am hopeful that all safety precautions from our chapter will be incorporated. The chapter alone is not enough. We created regulations that give teeth to our chapter and it is imperative that Broomfield leads the way and creates regulations at both the local and state levels. The task force is committed to taking our regulations to the state, and I see that as a very positive action. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? Broomfield is behind in providing affordable housing for those who work in Broomfield and for our senior population. In the past we have waived state funds that might help to initiate some progress in this area. The recent council approval to transfer Broomfield’s state funds for affordable housing to Fort Collins was a wake-up call to council. I believe we will see progress moving forward. In the future I anticipate council will insist on proposals for, at the very least, affordable worker housing. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? The biggest challenge facing Broomfield right now is a lack of public transportation. RTD provides service only to 144th Avenue and really only sporadically that far north, yet those of us who live north of 144th still pay taxes for the service. This is something that needs to be corrected. When corporations are looking for new locations, one of the highest items on the list of requirements for relocation is public transportation. Our Economic Development team in Broomfield has done an outstanding job bringing businesses into Broomfield. If we had the transportation and affordable worker housing I can only imagine how many more businesses we would have.
BROOMFIELD CITY COUNCIL WARD 5
Guyleen Castriotta Website: guyleen4broomfieldward5.com Age:53 Family: Married to Carolyn Terry. Caregiver for my 90year-old mother-in- law. How long have you lived in Broomfield: almost five years Professional background: Former local TV News Producer in New Orleans/Las Vegas, Network Marketing Executive for Fox Broadcasting Co. and at Downtown Women’s Center. On-call Assistant Chef for Coal Creek Meals on Wheels.
Karl Honegger Website: KarlHonegger.com Age: 26 Family: I have been married to a Colorado native for seven years. We have four beautiful, energetic children. How long have you lived in Broomfield: Three years Professional background: Currently: Treasury Analyst. Previously: Accounts Payable Accountant, Income Tax Intern Political/community experience: Eagle Scout, American Legion Boys State participant, volunteer for Berthoud Habitat for Humanity. Education: Master of Professional Accounting from University of South Dakota, Bachelor of Business Administration from University of Northern Colorado. What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? The Colorado Legislature passed Colorado Revised Statute 39-29-101 and created an excise tax on oil produced in Colorado called a severance tax. This established the government’s financial interest in oil and gas. Because of this, the state has done what it can to protect its severance tax fund. Broomfield can still hold oil and gas companies legally accountable through the use of an MOU. As a result, Broomfield will also receive some of the severance taxes back to be used on local projects. Colorado residents enjoy 20 percent lower
Political/community experience: Broomfield Campaign Office Director for the 2016 Coordinated Campaign. Coal Creek Meals on Wheels volunteer. Education: Bachelor of arts in communications University of New Orleans What is your stance on oil and gas production, fracking and pipelines in Broomfield? Huge industrial operations have no place in densely populated areas so close to homes and schools. If elected, I will support and enforce Broomfield’s Comprehensive Plan Chapter on Oil and Gas regulations. I will also prioritize the health and safety of citizens in any oil and gas decisions. Ballot initiative 301 to amend our home rule charter will give our local government more tools to safely regulate oil and gas development in Broom-
energy costs because of oil and gas development and those with low incomes benefit most from cheap energy. Our time and money are better spent on protecting health and safety than wasting tax money losing lawsuits against the state. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? There are two taxes that will make attainable housing projects harder to pull off, the SEF and the building material use tax. The SEF is an excise tax on residential construction that has added at least $30 million to the price of Broomfield housing. Council can let voters take another look at whether we want this tax. We should look at the use tax on building materials brought into Broomfield, considering it added $6 million to the cost of construction last year. Churches, nonprofits and compassionate developers are where the best solutions will be found. It’s possible that county government could become a minority owner in an attainable housing. This would take it off the state property tax rolls and lower the final cost of housing. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? We need to balance the growth of Ward 5 with the level of staffing at the Broomfield Police Department. We should be careful to not let officers be stretched too thin once Ikea is built and more homes are built near Colo. 7. We should complete a study, mentioned in the comprehensive plan on how purchasing land for open space will impact property values, soon.
field. Community efforts to fight residential fracking are making a difference. I refuse to accept that we don’t have the power to change our policies. How does Broomfield effectively provide affordable/attainable housing in a timely manner, and what is council’s role in that? It’s troubling that many of our city staff, firefighters and police officers can’t afford to live in the city where they work. Many seniors fear they will be priced out of their homes. I have a few ideas to help our supply and demand problem. We can leverage Broomfield’s real estate explosion to incentivize and negotiate with developers to partner with the city to create more affordable housing options. This could include repurposing older, vacant structures into affordable living spaces. By remov-
ing some barriers and antiquated regulations, we can come up with innovative solutions. What issues or projects need to come to council’s attention? We do a great job of offering tax incentives to big business, but we don’t offer the same support to smaller, local businesses. I believe we need to change that. We must support small businesses struggling to make it here, as well as the next generation that will build on our vibrant business community. Most of us can name a handful of our favorite mom-and- pop shops that have shut their doors in recent years due to rising rent prices and regulatory constraints. If elected, I will work to ensure there is small business support while keeping the entrepreneurial spirit alive in Broomfield.
it was collecting petition signatures that led to Ballot Question 301 or serving on the oil and gas task force. We need a representative on council who is willing to honor the work done by Website: Facebook.com our residents regarding oil and gas, /grayson.hofferber one who is willing to work with folks Age: 31 on all sides of the issue, and one who Family: Blended family of 5; Fiance, will lead Broomfield into the future Claire, three kids ages 3, 5 and 8 with the understanding that oil and gas How long have you lived in Broomis just part of our energy portfolio with field: three years an eye on renewable energy technoloProfessional background: Financial gy. Planner for seven years, Owner of my How does Broomfield effectively proown firm, Millennial vide affordable/attainable housing in a Wealth Management, timely manner, and what is council’s LLC role in that? Political/community Broomfield must make affordable experience: Not a politihousing a priority. The best way for cian, but a community Broomfield to address this issue is to servant. Chairman of first stop thinking that we do not have the Board of Equalizaa problem and start talking about the tion 2016 to 2017, needs of our low-income residents. We Board of Directors for the Broomfield must have a plan to develop affordable Chamber of Commerce, Founding housing and not wait any longer. Counmember of HYPE, Founder of Millencil recently voted to transfer the counnial Business Network ty’s allocated $3,000,000 worth of PriEducation: Theater major, West Tex- vate Activity Bonds to Longmont for as A&M the development of affordable housing because we didn’t have any plans to What is your stance on oil and gas use the funds. This has been happenproduction, fracking and pipelines in ing for years as our community has Broomfield? looked the other way. We must put a The oil and gas industry has a long plan in place and get affordable houshistory of operating in Colorado. Unfortunately, most of the regulations ing projects started in Broomfield in surrounding drilling also go way back. order for our workforce to not only work here but live here too. I am not vehemently opposed to oil What issues or projects need to come and gas activities in Broomfield, but to council’s attention? we must always consider the health and safety of our residents. The state With the incredible growth of our regulations need to be updated and the community, we must start thinking best way for this to come about is long-term about education. Looking at through more of a regional coalition. I the potential for a unified school disam proud of our community for taking trict in Broomfield as well as a potenleadership roles on this issue, whether tial community college.
Grayson Hofferber
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ELECTION 2017 BALLOT OVERVIEW Boulder City Council (Vote for five) Bill Rigler Mark McIntyre Eric Budd Cindy Carlisle Jan Burton Mary Dolores Young Jill Adler Grano Mirabai Kuk Nagle Matt Benjamin Sam Weaver Adam Swetlik John Gerstle Ed Byrne Camilo Casas
Lafayette City Council (Vote for four) Jamie Harkins Gustavo Reyna Andrew J. O’Connor Cliff Smedley Michael Daniels Dana Kusjanovic Jarrett Tishmack Brian Wong Chelsea Behanna Allen Bishop Richard Welty JD Mangat Merrily Mazza John Watson
Longmont City Council Mayor (Vote for one) Sarah Levison Brian J. Bagley Roger Lange Council at-large (Vote for two) Aren Rodriguez Cathy Jarrett Ron Gallegos Alex Sammoury Polly Christensen Council Ward 2 (Vote for one) Marcia Martin Jeff Moore
Louisville City Council Ward I (Vote for one) Chris Leh Ward 2 (Vote for one) Jeff Lipton Ward 3 (Vote for one) Ashley Stolzmann
Boulder Valley School District District B (Vote for one) Christina Marquis
District E (Vote for one) Donna Miers Raj Rawat Dean Vlachos District F (Vote for one) Kitty Sargent Alexandra Eddy
Broomfield City Council Mayor (Vote for one) T.J. Cole Randy Ahrens City Council Ward 1 Elizabeth Law-Evans James Marsh-Holschen Ward 2 Sharon Tessier Ward 3 Rick Fernandez Deven Shaff Ward 4 Brian Devine Jason Anderson Kimberly Groom Susan Speece Ward 5 Karl Honegger Grayson Hofferber Guyleen Castriotta
Question 2P: Charter provision allowing executive sessions for municipalization Yes No Question 2Q: Charter cleanup Yes No
Broomfield ballot issue Issue 301: Oil and gas health effects Yes No
Four Mile Fire Protection District ballot issue Issue 5B: Tax increase Yes No
Lafayette ballot issues Issue 2A: Open space tax extension Yes No Issue 2B: Storage tax Yes No Issue 2C: Street improvement revenue bonds Yes No
Question 2D: Compensation of mayors and councilors Issue 1A: Worthy Cause sales and use tax extension Yes Yes No No Question 2E: Residential growth management Question 1B: Sheriff term limit extension to 5 terms Yes Yes No No
Boulder County ballot issues
Question 1C: Authorization to provide broadband services Yes No Issue 5A: Burgundy Park Public Improvement District mill levy increase Yes No
Boulder ballot issues Issue 2L: Utility occupation tax increase and extension Yes No Issue 2M: 0.3 cents capital improvement tax extension Yes No Issue 2N: Debt authority for capital improvement tax Yes No Question 2O: Charter requirement for vote before electric construction debt Yes No
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Longmont ballot issues Issue 2H: Public safety tax Yes No Issue 2I: Retail marijuana tax Yes No
Question 2J: Water system improvements bond Yes No Question 2K: Retain Municipal Judge Robert J. Frick Yes No
Louisville ballot issues Issue 2F: Historic preservation sales tax extension Yes No Question 2G: High-speed internet authorization Yes No
This election is about our energy future, and much is at stake. We have a choice. Do we continue with the status quo, where energy decisions are made by an investor-owned, vertically-integrated monopoly based in Minnesota? Or do we want a say in our own future, unleashing the innovation, flexibility, and local values that represent our community? It’s the difference between owning our home or paying rent to a landlord. This much we know: the future is electric. Sierra Club believes our community deserves clean, affordable electricity. We urge you to vote YES! on ballot measures 2L, 2O, and 2P. Let’s take ownership of our renewable energy future today.
YES on 2L Paid for by the Sierra Club IPG Issue Committee
ELECTION 2017 VOTER GUIDE • OCTOBER 15, 2017 • 47
“It’s time for our generation to lead the change we envision for the world. I will do this, by putting our Future First.”
WHAT I'M COMMITTED TO Effective Governance Geographic representation through districting Evidence-based decision making Council should focus on “less is more” to ensure “quality over quantity”
Affordable Housing Boost housing inventory for middle income & young working families Efficient and effective zoning and land-use Explore Community Land Trusts
Renewable Energy I do not support continuing municipalization but I strongly support our goals Invest in local renewable energy & energy efficiency programs Get rid of outdated rules that limit safe and reliable energy production
“Matt Benjamin is a quick study, thinking deeply about the issues that the community faces... he is one of the hardest-working candidates this year.” – BOB YATES
“Vote for @MBforBoulder for #Boulder City Councilbecause new eyes on old problems is an asset! #datadriven” – DAN POWERS
Endorsed by The Boulder Daily Camera and Best Democracy
Transportation Prepare for the transit revolution of electric and autonomous vehicles Continue partnership with the University to reduce the bottlenecks on Broadway City-wide Eco-pass to increase local ridership
Growth & Development Work with small business to keep commercial real estate affordable Sub-Community Plans to identify areas of change and areas of stability Maintain the 1% growth rate with smart and balanced opportunities
@MattBenjaminFutureFirst | www.mattbenjaminfuturefirst.com Paid for by the Committee to Nominate Matt Benjamin for City Council
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