A handyman reacts to growth; an architect plans for it. My blueprint for our local economy is proactive and built on a simple principle: the city must be a partner to our local businesses, not an adversary. My plan outlines a clear, three-part strategy to cut red tape, support our thriving downtown, and fix our infrastructure first.

1. A Partner to Our Thriving Downtown & Local Business

Golden’s historic downtown is a powerful economic engine. My plan is to protect and enhance this vital asset by cutting bureaucratic red tape and ensuring the city is a responsive partner with local businesses. We will empower our Chamber of Commerce, create a true “one-stop-shop” for permits and licenses, and ensure that any new projects are built at a human scale that complements the historic character of our downtown.

2. A “Fix it First” Infrastructure Philosophy

New development must not come at the expense of our residents’ quality of life. My approach is rooted in financial responsibility and a simple promise: we will fix what’s broken before we build what’s new. We will prioritize maintenance for our existing roads, parks, and utilities before taking on new, debt-inducing expansion projects. My plan will also require that all Traffic Impact Studies for new developments are fully independent, ensuring developers are held accountable for their impact on our community.

3. A Common-Sense Approach to Housing

Preserving Golden’s character means ensuring the people who make our community special can afford to live here. My approach is to allow for modest, “context-sensitive” housing choices that fit the scale and character of our existing neighborhoods. This isn’t about dramatic change; it’s about providing options—like accessory apartments or duplexes—that allow seniors to age in place and young families to put down roots. My plan is to lead with a community-driven process to ensure any new housing enhances our community, not detracts from it.

This is the Architect’s forward-looking approach: a resident-first plan, built in partnership with our community, to grow our local economy while protecting the Golden we all love.

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