I am extremely concerned about the City’s budget.  The City of Denver is experiencing the worst drop in City revenue since 1933.  We have cut more than $200 million in the past two budget years.  We are down to a bare bones the budget with difficult decisions ahead.

Prior to working on solving the budget issues with the rest of City Council, I want to ensure my constituents in District 1 have the opportunity to hear and understand the current budget.  Residents and business owners will be my first source of information about how budget cuts and sacrifices truly impact the District and we will work together on how to solve the budget problem.  The advice from District 1 residents and business owners is critical.  Our City needs new, creative solutions and I believe that those living with the day-to-day impacts of cuts can supply fresh ideas.

Second, the City must continue to focus on efficiency.  This includes identifying where resources are being wasted by surveying the City workforce and the community, and then changing wasteful practices.  In addition, applying simple, environmentally conscious practices City-wide may save money as well as improve the community we live in.

The budget situation may not improve in the short term.  If reductions to core services must be discussed, my priority will be to obtain feedback from District 1 residents and business owners prior to City Council decision-making on reducing core services.  The police, fire and sheriff departments make up more than 50% of the City’s budget, and they have already made sacrifices and concessions for the benefit of the City.

District 1 needs a strong advocate to ensure we receive our fair allocation of City resources.  We must have a knowledgeable and competent vocal representative on City Council, I am that person.