Briefly describe the single most urgent issue facing the city of Denver and how it should be addressed.
Denver can do better by addressing the root causes of many of our current struggles. From homelessness to housing affordability and public safety, we have been trying – and failing – to apply “quick fixes” to highly complicated problems that are, in fact, interconnected. As mayor, I’ll put people over politics and focus on solving many of these root causes including education disparities, financial inequalities, housing affordability, and healthcare accessibility. I’ve successfully bolstered Denver’s mental health services through Caring for Denver and improved criminal justice by launching alternative policing programs. I’ll bring that record of accomplishment to the mayor’s office.

What should Denver leaders do to address the city’s lack of affordable housing?
Safe, healthy, accessible, affordable housing is a human right, yet a home has become a luxury many in Denver cannot afford. We need diverse housing options to reduce costs while ensuring people can afford to live in the neighborhood they grew up in. Last year, I led the creation of the Colorado Middle Income Housing Authority that will deliver thousands of attainable housing units for families. As mayor, I will fight for resources to create truly affordable housing and end chronic homelessness; zoning reforms to prioritize fair housing; protections to stabilize tenants; and ways to expand permanent affordability.

Do you support redevelopment at the Park Hill golf course property? Why or why not?
Candidate’s answer was not responsive to the question.

What should Denver leaders do to revitalize downtown Denver?
A city is only as strong as its downtown. Returning the center city to its full vibrancy is one of my top priorities. In the first 100 days, we will host a Downtown Summit with downtown advocates, residents, and business owners. We must increase public safety, get our unhoused neighbors into safe spaces, and make housing more affordable. The 16th Street Mall has to be reimagined again to reflect a post-COVID life. We will incentivize local restaurants and shops in other parts of town to open second locations, and work to attract back the businesses and employees who have left.

What is Denver’s greatest public safety concern and what should be done about it?
Every person in Denver deserves to feel safe. My record working with law enforcement and the community on innovative solutions to reduce crime is unmatched. I funded the Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) program which has improved policing and mental health support. I created the first bipartisan law enforcement integrity bill with law enforcement support. This same innovation is found in my Community Safety plan that outlines solutions for enforcement, curbing youth violence, getting guns off our streets, reducing hate crimes, alternatives to jail, and addressing theft and vandalism. Together, we can make Denver the safest city in the nation.

Should neighborhoods help absorb population growth through permissive zoning, or do you favor protections for single-family neighborhoods?
Smart density is key to Denver’s future growth and to quality planning for the future. Denver has a 50,000 unit housing gap. In order to provide these additional units, I believe Denver must leverage vacant and underutilized land and buildings it already owns and partner with communities on projects that will help provide additional housing opportunities at all levels–ensuring that we revitalize and renew our neighborhoods while preserving their unique character and not pricing residents out. We must also eliminate the development permit backlog in order to keep up with the pressing housing demand.

Should the city’s policy of sweeping homeless encampments continue unchanged? Why or why not?
It’s time to rethink how we address living space for our unhoused neighbors–the current situation is not working for them or for the city. Helping people get back on their feet requires stable housing, but the first step is getting people inside to safe places–ones where they feel comfortable and secure. We’ll expand street outreach, substance use disorder treatment, and harm reduction to ensure that people facing a crisis are aware of new solutions. I will create the progressive change this city needs, and make Denver into a city that works for everyone.

Should Denver change its snow plowing policy? Why or why not.
When it comes to snow removal, Denver can do better. Pedestrians, especially people with disabilities, seniors, and those without other means of transportation, rely on clear walkways and crosswalks. As mayor, I will bring together neighborhood leaders and community advocates to map out exactly where our city resources should be focused, while ensuring we aren’t hurting our environment and making sure that our snow removal workers are supported and have the appropriate equipment they need to succeed.

What’s your vision for Denver in 20 years, and what would you do to help the city get there?
I love this city and I know we can do better. Denver can be a safe, affordable city that works for everyone. I envision a Denver where: we have thriving arts and culture; people that need mental health or substance use disorder care can get it before it becomes a crisis; and we put people first in every decision the city makes. Denver is going through a period of change and I have a track record of accomplishment putting results over politics and moving us forward on important issues. It will take grit and determination, but we will make Denver better.

How better can city officials protect Denver’s environment — air quality, water supply, ground contamination? And should the city take a more active role in transit?
Climate change and air and water quality issues are deeply linked. We’ve all experienced the dreaded brown cloud. Pollution is causing ill health effects, especially in our most vulnerable communities. I have a strong record of supporting renewable energy incentives and protecting water sources. To truly be a Green City, we must focus on improving air and water quality, increasing transit options, and reducing carbon emissions through renewables and energy efficiency, all while ensuring that communities of color are not disproportionately impacted by these changes. Denver is ready to protect its future.

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