Current Affairs

The City of Longmont is receiving $12.9m in ARPA funds. In initial conversations, Council discussed utilizing these one-time funds for necessary areas such as housing, early childhood services, and infrastructure development. To ensure that these funds are used to truly meet the community needs, community members must be involved in not only determining where funds will be spent, but also the ongoing implementation of funding and evaluation of its utilization. We have amazing cultural brokers within Longmont who can be tapped into to help with this process.

We know COVID had disproportionate impacts on certain populations. We can ensure that the recovery serves them first and best as we develop a Longmont where everyone can truly thrive.

I support the continued fracking ban and will ensure we monitor the well closure in and around Longmont.

Living in Longmont has never been more expensive. We need real solutions, not just rhetoric. This means looking closely at our codes and policies to find ways to increase inventory and access.

Homes are considered affordable when rent and utilities in an apartment or monthly mortgage payment and housing expenses for a homeowner total less than 30% of a household’s gross monthly income.

• In 2019, the median household income in Longmont was $74,242. To be affordable at that level, monthly housing expenses would have to be under $1,856.

We have a significant gap of rental units available to voucher-holders in Longmont. Because of the rental housing market, landlords are opting out of vouchering programs, leaving fewer and fewer units available. If this continues, Longmont will lose additional voucher eligibility, causing further harm.

• COL must continue to find ways to incentivize landlords to remain in the program.

• The inclusionary housing requirement (12%) is a fantastic first step. Closing loopholes and exceptions is critical.

I believe in smart growth and development. Smart development means continuing to assess the myriad impacts of growth on the community; from transportation and infrastructure needs to environmental and quality of life considerations. In order to continue to be a thriving community, growth must occur, but not without bonds or careful assessment.

The 2030 plan, adopted by the City of Longmont, is one of the most aggressive shifts to renewable energy of comparable cities. The plan takes into account major infrastructural changes, budgeting needs, and citizen engagement to ensure it can occur successfully. This also helps ensure that equity considerations are not forgotten and the needs of already marginalized residents are upheld.

Transportation issues in Longmont don't just revolve around big, public transit, but also our first and final mile solutions and connecting major arteries. I will work collaboratively on the council and with other communities to bring funding and people centered solutions to Longmont.

We also need to look beyond RTD solutions. In the wake of COVID, our partners at RTD are financially strapped at time when Longmont is asking for additional services.