This online forum is going to allow you, THE VOTERS, to ask all the questions you would like to ask of ALL THE CANDIDATES. This November in 2009 and next November in 2010, we have some very important seats to fill and issues to decide. We have a mayor in Brighton, city council seats in Brighton and Commerce City and director seats in school districts 27J and ACSD14, and county, state, and federal seats next fall. Also, there could be bonds to pass (or fail) and issues to be decided.When you post your question, please let us know which candidate the question is for, or if it is for all candidates in a certain race, or for all candidates in general. Candidates we encourage you to visit often, you can pick and choose which questions to respond to or just use the forum to understand your future constituents concerns. If you have a problem blogging, please call us at 720-221-7352 or fax to 720-221-8317 or email to dustie@coloradobusinessalliance.com or just come up to us at any city event and tell us directly.
Periodically, we will print questions and answers in the print version of the Gateway News.
254 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 254 of 254Only way tobe fair to the entire city is 2 per ward. Also, candidates, NO MORE POLITICAL SIGHNS!
Anne, Vicky, Odius, Commerce City
Hello-
As many of you know, I am running for one of the two open at-large council seats in this November's municipal elections. To get elected, I need your help and support!
First and foremost, know that I will not be asking for campaign donations. I understand the difficult financial times we are living in and hope to fund my campaign on my own. With that said, however, I do need your help and support to run an effective campaign.
I am looking for assistance in any of the following areas:
* Delivering fliers.
* Editing/reviewing campaign materials.
* Circulating emails to registered voters.
* Sharing emails of registered voters with me to distribute election information.
* Holding a voter registration drive.
* Spreading the word through your neighborhoods and friends (e.g., verbally or email).
* Helping me stay up-to-date on neighborhood gatherings and events I should attend.
* Providing me with your insights in making Commerce City a great place to live.
* Voting!!!!
* Hosting a neighborhood party where I could be introduced to your neighbors.
Before deciding whether or not you would like to assist me, please go to my webpage at http://colbytrullforcouncilman.com and learn more about me, including my priorities, inspiration, and projects.
If you agree with what you read and would like to help, please respond to this email and tell me what specific area(s) you could help me with.
Also, I ask that you pass the link to my webpage to your neighbors so they can learn more about me as well. Bonding together, I know we can continue to make Commerce City a great place to live, work, and raise a family. I'm excited about the opportunities that lay ahead.
Very Respectfully,
Colby (303-949-5217)
There is not much growth in south Commerce City of citizens that are eligible to vote in this country. The north is growing and expanding and as it grows will get more representation. With the anticipated increased population growth the existing northern wards will split again creating more “north” representatives. What then? Too many people here are saying “vote for my friend candidate U! vote for candidate X, he lives in our ward! Vote for candidate Y, he lived in the city longer and one of us! Vote for candidate Z, he’s black, white or Hispanic. Some want to vote for someone that was there in the past. I have to ask: What did he do for the south when there? Did property values increase? Has your neighborhood become more desirable? What have you gained?
We need to make sure the candidates are not self serving and can benefit the community.
This election is very important for the development of our city as a “city of one” We need to vote in candidates that are qualified by education, character, integrity and ability to work with the current members of the council because things need to get done, deals need to be made. If your council person don't get the others to vote on his/her projects guess who loses.
The economy is starting to pickup and we need to get as much business as we can. Council persons are the face to face with the fortune X companies looking for a home. I say again we need candidates that are qualified by education, character, integrity to ensure them that we as a city can handle their needs.
Let’s all get rid of the drama and the drama queens and make Commerce City one of the most desired cities in Colorado. Together it can be done; one city just different neighborhoods.
My presumptuous opinion
Very well put! I am with you all the way!
Tim Dalton
Word on the street is that Mr. Sean Ford, former Mayor, pulled a petition packet for concilman at large. Looks like Sean will be busy all weekend if he wants to have it turned in by COB Monday.
Better watch out Robert, it looks like it's team Sean and Rene, all over again!!! Look out for the Development Money, heere it comes.
Candidates, we have Orval Lewis talking about raising the taxes, city looking at mortgaging property, city looking at municipal fees,
What are you takes on this?
Vicky, Core Resident
Hate to be the one to stir up something, but how can Sean Ford run if he has only been out for 2 years?
Tim Dalton
Gateway,
Can Sean run?
Gina
I thought we had term limits and you had to sit out one term, why can ford run?
Candidates, Weigh in!!!!!!
why did Mr. Ford get a packet? how can he run, he just got off.
Clarification:
Reported that Former May Sean Ford Picked up a packet, nothing more as of yet.
Gateway News Twitter: # Former Commerce City Mayor Sean Ford picks up candidate packet for November 2009 elections. about an hour ago
How bogus, that Ford is planning to run. I don't see how that can be allowed! He wasn't off council for 4 yrs.
I have had enough of the Ford family regime.
Now we have to deal with both Rene and Sean all over again.
I hope not!!
Larry Quintana
Monaco Neighborhood Improvement Committee
What is your formula to create a "One Community" thinking for the total of Commerce City. While the Core community and the Northern community have different perspectives on their areas, we are all Commerce City must realize we need each other to move forward when the ecconomy moves in a positive direction. We cannot let a handful of individuals determine what is best for all of Commerce City.
My next question is where do you stand on bring the unincorporated portion of our community into Commerce City?
Larry Quintana
Communications Director, MNIC
I thought I heard that phrase kids helping kids before. Trull ripped it off?
ccSpeaks
Romine,
You got to be more careful.
Tim Dalton
Candidate Romine,
Where did you get your info from about the robbing water man?
how did you get tthe idea that the Denver DA had it as a case?
Ryland. Dazed and Confused
Thank God, I was on my porch all weekend looking for water con artist.
Unitas
The following is a list of Commerce City 2009 Candidates who have submitted sufficient petitions and whose names will be on the ballot in November.
Commerce City Ward 1 Candidates Include: Gene Leffel, Mac McFarlin, Dominick Moreno.
Commerce City Ward 3 Candidates Include: Kerstin Berlinski, Jadie Carson, David Pocs, Joseph Sandoval, Guillermo Serna.
Commerce City At-Large Candidates Include: Jason McEldowney, Rene Bullock, Steve Douglas, Andrew Hahn, Robert Romine, Colby Trull.
Good Luck to all the Candidates.
The election is important for the city and as a voter I would like to know the financial stability of the candidates. How a candidate manages their finances relates to character and will carry over into decisions made for the benefit of the city. We definitely don’t want someone who has financial difficulties and just in need of the money. Those are the people we read about after they are busted for taking bribes to push a cause and or they stole a bunch of money from the city. Can you publish this info Gateway news? I would think since they are running for public office the info can be published??
Thanks,
C_City Voter
The following are my responses to questions I’ve seen asked on this forum. I would encourage you to contact me at 303-949-5217 or trull.colby@gmail.com for further explanations.
Part 1
Nothing for Northern Commerce City youth to do?
I’m not sure what age your children are and as such have some difficulty providing the best answer to your question. However, I believe many opportunities are currently available within our community. I also believe the City can do a better job cooperating with Northern metro districts/communities to provide more organized youth and elder activities. Please give me a call and I connect you with local youth groups and volunteer organizations.
Need for two comprehensive plans – northern development and southern re-development?
I think one comprehensive plan is sufficient to support the needs of a city our size. The most critical part of a comprehensive plan is the active involvement of all residents. One plan can both encompass re-development and new development. I would also suggest that businesses, at least partly, determine where they will build or relocate based on the cohesiveness of the city as a whole and the current make up and interaction of the city council.
More money for council members?
I absolutely do not believe more money is needed for city council members. I don’t believe an effective city council needs to be full-time or necessarily paid. Oftentimes, councils can get bogged down in the minutia that is better left to the professional staff to decide.
Colby Trull's response to questions Part 2:
Term Limits?
I generally believe term limits are a good idea. I don’t like the idea of a career politician. Term limits can help elected officials stay honest (not as much motivation to compromise your ideals if you can’t run for re-election) and ensure new and exciting ideas are considered. Term limits should be staggered, however, so that some historical knowledge and continuity can be maintained.
Why are Brighton/Denver getting all the businesses?
This is probably the most difficult question to answer. I don’t think there is one, easy answer to why other cities have gotten businesses and parts of Commerce City have not. I think our best bet is to focus on the future, minimize threats or obstacles to development, and capitalize on our strengths. With time and a little luck, development will come. I would also suggest that we don’t give away the bank in our rush to develop the north. I’ve seen other cities provide outrageous tax breaks to businesses that eventually left without repaying the debt owed. The cities gained very little form these deals. I think one of the greatest economic development opportunities is related to the North Metro FasTracks route. I am a huge proponent of transit-oriented development. I for one will not vote for additional FasTracks tax increases, however, unless RTD promises all the stations currently scheduled for Commerce City.
What is one promise you will make and stick with?
I think the 800 lb. gorilla that is in the room of every conversation I’ve had and every meeting I’ve attended is the divide or chasm that exists between the core city (south) and the north. I believe the strongest and most successful cities are those that have a shared and common vision for the future. Disagreements will always exist and are a necessary part of a democracy. In the end, however, we need to know which direction the city is going and embrace that. With that said, my one promise to you is that I will work to develop this shared vision and attempt to break down the barriers that exist and divide us as a city. Will I accomplish it? I don’t know, but I’ll definitely give it my best. On this same note, I strongly encourage you to vote based on the person running and not because they reside in the south or the north. If a person from the south is more qualified and responsive to your needs than me (I admit living in the North), then I recommend you vote for them. However, I would suggest you give me call to chat because I think I have a lot to offer as well.
Hobbies; favorite color, food, and book; Most Inspirational Person?
Hobbies: playing with my daughters
Color: U.S. Navy Blue
Food: Thai and a good steak
Book: The Shack
Inspirational Person: Mother Theresa
Colby Trull
C C Voter is looking into everyone's underwear, without letting us know who he or she is!!!!!!!!!!!!
This question does not deserve to be on three blog sheets!!!!
I think CC voter has valid questions.
What the financial situation of the candidate may show some of their motivation.
I certainly have seen past council members who were directed by their pocket, or lack of funds therein.
I am concerned about a few of those running, who I see as people looking to gain, either directly from city funds or indirectly.
People keep talking about transparity....lets shine the light!!
I do not feel that 9 City At Large Members would be a good idea. We still need Members to represent their Wards so community members have one specific person they know they can go to address issues locally in Wards.
I’m not sure if this is directed at me or someone else who may be running for city council but in the recent past I have had an issue with my financial situation and I will offer my explanation now, to allow all the voters to make their decision if they feel that this has tainted my character and would alter my decisions for personal gain. On July, 18th 2007 by no fault of mine I was in an automobile accident. Because of this accident I received medical treatment for over 8 months. Thru my treatment I was unable to dedicate much time to my job. After 9 months I did get behind on my house payment and nearly lost my home. For nearly 2 years I was in the fight of my life I was not going to lose everything I worked for. I am not a quitter, I worked harder and my family sacrificed and we came back. This chapter in my life has made me a better person; it has made my resolve stronger. It has taught me to not be judgmental of people but to lend a helping hand and not to put a person down but to help him up. I have been humbled and have a greater sense of compassion for people faced with adversity. That’s why I say I am a candidate that can help turn adversity into opportunity. I feel it is how a person works through adversity that makes up his or her character and in turn helps a person make decisions in a more thoughtful and thorough way. I would not assume that a person who has had financial difficulties is a bad person. Bad and unfortunate things happen to good people. I hear the stories of the people that have survived tough financial times and have come back and have the resolve to help others. I prefer to look at the positive in people and not try to drag people down with the negativisms that surround a few people. I know most of the candidates they are all good people wanting to throw their hat into the ring to help make Commerce City a better place for all. It’s not about the money, it’s because we care. Good luck to my fellow candidates. Please before you judge me, meet me; ask me your questions and learn who I am and then make a judgment where my heart is.
Andrew Hahn 303-331-8040 or my email ha101@comcast.net
Dusty please publish this right under the post that address’s this matter
Gateway,
I would now consolidte all of the important questions and make a final version of 2009 issues and concerns.
Candidates,
What do you think of the third term brought by Council person Teter and now will be on the ballot!
Scott, Reunion Resident
Candidates, do you think going to the zoo, makes you a zookeeper?
Does going to the art gallery make you an artist?
If not, then does going to council meetings make you a qualified person to sit on council, or just someone who has nothing to do?
RE: Term Limits
I am of the opinion that the proposed increase in term limits is an issue that should go to the people of Commerce City. Limitations of two terms has been an accepted practice, and I feel it has worked successfully. It has allowed for fresh approaches and new ideas as more individuals get involved in the political process.
The argument against a two term limit is that many resources, including time, are spent in an effort to get council members up to speed and knowledgeable on the issues that affect the people of Commerce City. This is all the more reason to elect individuals who already know the issues that affect our great city, and have the experience and resources available to propose viable solutions to these very issues. This is what it takes to be an effective council member from the start.
I am a candidate who will not require a significant amount of time and resources to get up to speed on the issues that affect the people of Commerce City. I have a variety of experiences including, but not limited to, working on a bond re-issuance as a board member of our Dunes Metro Tax District, and years of experience on the Zoning Board of Adjustments.
I have several years of experience working in economic development and in affordable housing, having built a clear understanding of tax credit financing and working with federal, state and local housing agencies. I have worked for a retail developer and have attended the ICSC Las Vegas conference.
Whether you, as a voter, decide that term limits should be limited to two or increased to three, rest assured that you will not have to wait for me to become an effective representative for Commerce City. I will be ready from day one.
David
Candidates,
What do you all think of Romine's shameless attempts of getting free media?
Syubble
Hi All, Kudos to Dustie, for letting this sheet continue since June 14th. I just finished rereading this sheet from start to finish, and I realized I've not responded to this sheet since, Aug. 11th, when I broached the sign challenge idea, anonymously.
Your responses to this were amazing!! I'm glad to report that I've only seen a few signs, by one other candidate, other than Mr. Romine, stuck in the ground.
If you would like one of my window signs, you can contact me, I'll be happy to print and deliver one to you. If you don't wish to have one, that's great for you and me and our fair city. One less dead tree and LESS PSP to PICKUP!!
Seriously, after my reread of this thread, I would recommend rereading all the Election blogs, and then ask specific Candidates, to either answer all or specific questions. Hopefully we'll get some answers from some of the other Candidates who've been absent from these rather enlightening and entertaining blogs.
Catch you all later, Mac
Common Sense for the Common Good
mac4ccw1@q.com
maclona@msn.com
720-220-4323
Candidates,
As a member of the council voting to create a new position that was thoroughly researched and empirically proven to help cities increase employee productivity, attract future revenue while lowering overall operation costs. The average national wage for such full time position pays 100K per year plus incentives. Would you as a council person who let’s say, “never earned this salary yourselves” have a problem paying this salary to get the best?
Thanks
C_City voter
Thank you, all of you who are watching the blog these days. I am working hard on the campaign like 8-10 hours a day; you may have noticed a sign or two around town. And, any of you who know me know I'm not afraid to speak my mind! If I'm right I'll put it right out there. If anyone wants to meet me... I at The City Council Meeting every week; and, have been for the last 240+ meetings. We all go out after and eat. Everyone in welcome. And, please check out my web site. voterobertromine.com it was a lot of work too. Robert Romine At Large Candidate.
Gateway,
Make a master list of all the good questions asked here.
Unitas, Commerce City
It is one of the MOST complete list of good questions I have ever seen in the history of the city.
no rock left uncovered!
a very strong list of issues in Commerce City
Tim Dalton
Yes, I will be make a final list of all the questions and concerns and then will give to all of the candidates.
I am too, also impressed with the list.
Dustin, Gateway
To candidate Serna,
You do a lot of things for the south part of the city, and that is a good thing. But, if you are elected ward 3 council member, are you going to fight for us, or continue only doing things for the south.
Ward 3 needs more parks, a city rec center, something for the children to do, more development and most important, a grocery store.
Scott, Ryland, Hyde
Three ward 3 voters, Commerce City
Robert,
Why so many signs?
Why not spend time on making a platform and answering some of the questions that are being asked?
Julius, Commerce City
All the candidates who are so proud of NOT taking any money, I ask you this.
I see your signs all over town, on residents and businesses. How is that any different then taking money?
DO you think if your a council member and something comes up with one of those businesses, they are not going to expect that you treat them with preferential treatment, because they allowed you to put your sign on their property?
Yuri, Northern Range Voter
Never thought of it that way!
Good comment Yuri
Yuri, get thought process...the next thought:
(if they get elected )should they vote about issues regarding someone who's property had their sign?? Real can of worms!!
Why are some candidates trying to change history? I was told the New High School actually had some of you against it?
Land to be used for retail instead of school?
clarification!!!
Robert,
Do you own a sign company?
Hyde, Commerce City
Yuri,
I have heard the same thing. The old city manager didn't want the land to go for the high school, thought it should be retail.
Two of the OLD council members were supporting the city manager in that stand.
Neither of those people are on our current council, but one is running to return to council.
I find if you repeat a lie often enough people forget the truth, that is what has happened here.
It's the old "don't look at the things I did, look at the promises I am making now"
interesting!
Yuri
some people re-write history to fit their current situation.
Happens all the time!
We just need to keep calling them out on it.
Dalton
gateway,
are you going to make a master list of all the questions?
Concern for this election
Yes, I will have it by the beginning of next week.
Dustie
METRO NORTH REGION, COLO --- The Metro North Chamber of Commerce in partnership with
the MetroNorth Newspapers is hosting a local candidate forum on Wednesday, September 16th from
4:30 – 10:00 p.m. at the City of Thornton Council Chambers (9500 Civic Center Dr., Thornton).
This forum will be taped for rebroadcast on, Cable Channel 8 broadcast. Filmed live, the forum will
be moderated by Scott Perriman and Mikkel Kelly from the MetroNorth Newspapers.
Please find the city and time schedule below. The forum is open to the public.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009:
Broomfield: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Brighton: 5:30 – 6:45 p.m.
Northglenn: 6:45 – 7:15 p.m.
Thornton: 7:15 – 8:15 p.m.
Commerce City: 8:15 – 9:30 p.m.
I HAVE A CANDIDATE CHALLENGE FOR ALL CANDIDATES! SUBMIT A PICTURE OF YOUR PROPERTY TO THE NEWS SOURCES IN COMMERCE CITY AND GIVE THEM PERMISSION TO PUBLISH THEM.
VOTER IN WARD 1
Candidates,
What do you think of the image of Commerce City, do we have an image problem and if we do, how do we address it?
Clyde, Voter
I would like to know why some of the candidates did not show up at the Forum that was held by the Metro North Chamber of Commerce and the Metro North Newspapers?
Sybian, Commerce City, CO
I agree with Rene
We need new heads and he is not one of them. Why bring back someone who caused most of the problems before?
Pit Bulls!?
Candidates, what do you think!?
Wes
RE: Pit Bulls
After reading a story this morning about a 70-year old woman being mauled by a pair of pit-bull mixed dogs in Adams County, I can not in good conscience vote to lift a ban on vicious dogs.
I would not be able to live with myself if such an incident were to occur in Commerce City.
David Pocs
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