2021 Council Candidate Questionnaire
About City Council Elections
Although state and federal elections may get more headlines, local elections matter too - and likely have a larger impact your daily life! In the combined city and county government of Broomfield, mayors are elected for a two-year term and councilmembers are elected for a four-year term. The city limits are divided into five wards, and each ward elects two councilmembers (alternating every two years).
On your ballot this fall you'll be able to choose one candidate for mayor and one councilmember for the ward where you live. For more information on elections and candidates, including ensuring your voter registration is up-to-date, please see https://www.broomfield.org/153/Elections and https://www.broomfield.org/1069/Candidate-and-Campaign-Information.
Do you have an opinion on which candidates will be best for biking in Broomfield? Start a civil discussion on our social media pages!
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The Questions
Broomfield Bikes emailed all candidates for office the list of questions below. Candidates were given ten days to respond and their responses are posted below. Broomfield Bikes is not endorsing any specific candidates and the information below is provided so that residents are able to make a more informed decision while voting. Candidates are ordered alphabetically by last name.
The Responses
Guyleen Castriotta (mayoral candidate)
I appreciate your engagement on the issue of bike safety and I am one of those residents that don’t bike as much as I want to because I just don’t feel safe.
1. The last time I rode my bike was about a year ago and the weather changed dramatically from beautiful and sunny to monsoon winds. It wasn’t a pleasant experience and I’m not a fan of these erratic weather shifts.
5. The parking ratios in our code are a guideline and can be adjusted with variances for individual projects that may require less. An underparked development can cause safety issues if residents can’t park close to their homes. I don’t think removing the parking minimums is the solution but rather to approach project proposals on a case by case basis.
6. This Council has enacted concrete goals to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions in Broomfield. We also participate in the AQCC and Transportation rule making process to tighten regulations on GHG emissions.
7. We definitely need dedicated, separated bike lanes on Midway. I’m not a super confident cyclist and unless there is a dedicated lane, I will ride on the sidewalk. I will continue to advocate for safer bicycle lanes on Midway.
Thank you for the opportunity to engage with the Broomfield Bikes Community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have further questions.
In gratitude,
Guyleen
Kimberly Groom (mayoral candidate)
No response received
Chriss Hammerschmidt (Ward 1 councilmember candidate)
No response received
James Marsh-Holschen (Ward 1 councilmember candidate)
Thank you for the opportunity to answer your questions on this vital topic. Please find my answers below.
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
We ride bikes sporadically with our kids in the trailer. Also, my 1st grade daughter, Virginia rides her bike to school with me every morning. The last time I rode a bike was from our house in Brandywine to the Northside Tavern
2. What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red light cameras and speed cameras?
I have privacy concerns regarding adding to cameras in the community. That being said, the increase in traffic related issues warrants further study of speed and red light related enforcement cameras to see if could have an impact on traffic safety.
3. Are you in support of road diets in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
Yes
4. Are you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so, where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
Yes. I do believe our open space tax should be utilized to purchase open spaces, as well as utilizing developer fees. Infill developments can provide opportunities for additional open spaces and parks.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
I am in favor of reevaluating the current parking requirements to take into consideration the needed changes in density, public transportation, and looking into the future, the advent of driverless technology.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
At the local level, I intend to do everything we can to reduce pollution such as from oil & gas operations as well as move the CCOB buildings and vehicles to 100% clean energy as quickly as possible. I also plan to encourage public transportation, including working towards a Broomfield circular between areas such as Arista, Flat Irons, the new Town Square, and the Athem/Baseline development, to encourage less traffic and the need for parking. At the regional/state level, I will work with our partners to work towards a movement away from oil and gas development in Colorado as well as encouraging public transsportation such as Front Range Rail.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
I would like to see Midway move away from a major arterial through the heart of Broomfield to more of a local road. Reducing the speed on midway, especially between Sheridan and 287 where it is bordered by front-facing home. Speed control devices, such as narrowing at the crosswalks, and a possible light at Ash St where both Northmoor and Highland Park exit onto Midway. In addition, dedicated protected bike lanes along all of Broomfield major roads, especially Midway.
8. Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
Absolutely
9. As a councilmember, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield?
I believe the ACES committee's mandate should be divided and/or expanded to require an approval process during the development process for all plans.
10. The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
To be completely honest, I had not read through the Assessment prior to filing out this questionnaire. As it is a well thought out and detailed assessment, I would do it disservice to speak on it prior to reading it through carefully. That is something I will do in the coming weeks, and I am committed to implementing its recommendations in order to ensure that Broomfield is a community which prioritizes multimodal transportation systems and moves away from car-centric suburban mindset that has dominated development for far too long.
11. We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
As mentioned above, commit to 100% renewable energy sources. Move Broomfield's vehicle fleet to all electric vehicles as soon as is technologically feasible. Work with our federal, state, and regional partners to commit to end Oil & Gas production in Colorado as quickly as is possible while encouraging and incentivizing sustainable building and retrofitting existing homes and businesses with solar, gray water, etc, through local incentives.
12. What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a councilmember?
RTD has not served the residents of Broomfield well at all. We have paid more than our share of Fast track, with little to show for it. We were promised rail and we have not received it due to mismanagement an unrealistic cost projections. I will work with our partners that the promises are kept to the residents of Broomfield, including a rail stop. Realistically, that might occur through the upcoming Front Range Rail proposal, but I will push for the line to be built along I-36 between Denver and Boulder, and will insist on a stop at the First Bank Center park and ride.
Thank you for the opportunity to speak on these issues and I look forward to working with you moving forward.
Brent Hultman (Ward 2 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Austin Ward (Ward 2 councilmember candidate)
Thank you for the opportunity to answer your questions regarding bikes and bike infrastructure in Broomfield. This issue is very important to me because I use my bike to get almost everywhere I go. I bike to work (Broomfield to Boulder) about 95% of the time, and most of my campaign events I have biked to. Below are my answers to your questions.
1.The last time I rode my bike in Broomfield was Saturday the 9th of October, I rode to a campaign canvass kickoff event in First Filling from my apartment complex by the intersection of Wadsworth and HWY 128. The ride wasn't terrible, but crossing Wadsworth at HWY 128 is tedious and at times scary. I have to do a U shape pattern to follow the sidewalks as there is no dedicated crossing of Wads on the north side of 128. The sidewalk west of Wads on the south side of 128 is littered with rocks, plants, sand, and other debris making biking hazardous.
2. I think the use of red light cameras and speed cameras would be a positive thing to have. The IIHS reports that red light running decreased substantially when those cameras were put in place and front to side impact crashes with cars were down. They did note that in some studies, rear end collisions were up slightly but not enough to outweigh the benefit from the reduced side impact collisions. While these studies did not talk about the rate of collisions between cars and bikes at intersections, I think it is safe to deduce that those collisions would also decrease. Personally I have seen that speed cameras significantly reduce speeders, as I drive for RTD in Boulder and Boulder uses a speed camera on Moorehead Dr. frequently.
3. Part of my goal is to ensure no roads are widened in Broomfield, and we rework our current roads to allow for Bus only lanes, and protected bike lanes. Most of the time I refuse to ride on the road, unless I'm on a side street that doesn't see much traffic, because I don't feel protected from the 4000 lbs of steel being hurled down the road. Our side streets could have narrow lanes for cars, which would help slow down traffic, use parked cars as a buffer between moving traffic and bikes (allowing for a small buffer room between parked cars and bike lanes so opening doors do not interfere with bike traffic), and making sidewalks along busy roads wider so they become multimodal paths and have vegetation to act as a buffer from traffic and noise.
4. I am supportive of more open space, and increased connectivity to those open spaces. To pay for the open space, I would first require that a certain amount of land on new residential builds be set aside for open space that will be paid for by the developer, and second I would like to work with existing businesses to convert part of their parking lots to open space in exchange for a temporary tax reduction or other financial incentive.
5. Another goal of mine is to eliminate parking minimums and institute parking maximums. We have a lot of wasted space dedicated to parking lots that could be repurposed for housing, open space, etc.
6. While I recognize that a portion of the poor air quality this summer was from wildfires on the west coast, it would be arrogant of me to say that most of our poor air quality is from those fires and assume that we cannot help in reducing our contribution of ozone from volatile organic compounds (VOC's) into the atmosphere. My plan is multi pronged to address this issue, and includes reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT's), increasing the availability of public transit, increasing protected bike lanes and bike parking, increasing the public charging infrastructure, quickly transitioning the cities fleet of vehicles to all electric or other renewable energy sources, such as hydrogen fuel cell, and increasing the use of solar panels on residential and commercial buildings.
7. For Midway Blvd, I would like to see the street narrowed to help with traffic speed by using the parked cars on one side to act as a barrier for a bike lane, and widen the sidewalks on both sides to allow for pedestrians, mobility devices, and bikes. Expanded public transit service, both regional and local bus services are also a necessity. Lastly, I would like to see more mixed use development over the parking lots that surround Midway Blvd and US 287.
8. I am in favor of using roundabouts, ballards, and on streat diagonal parking to increase safety. Roundabouts not only slow down traffic, but they allow for traffic to keep moving which helps reduce the number of idling cars and thus reduce, to a small degree, pollution.
9. As a councilmember I will carefully look over all reports from the ACES committee, and see how they overlap with current proposals facing the council. If they don't have significant overlap I will push for reasons as to why they don't, how we can help ensure more recommendations are met, and if need be, vote against the proposals.
10. According to the study, in my Ward 120th/US287, connectivity to transit hubs from the 36 bikeway, and industrial lane had the most comments for improvement. I will regularly request updates from staff about where progress is, talk with stakeholders in the region to help with funding, and meet with constituents to give them updates and send emails to staff if necessary.
11. My goals for my term in office to address climate change will be to require all new buildings to be LEED certified, use renewable energy sources to the greatest extent possible, increase the walkability and bikeability of our community. Working with current building owners to convert them to renewable energy sources is even more important. I will also work to expand public charging infrastructure, convert our city fleet to all electric, start a bike share program, eliminate single use plastics, start a city wide composting program, and lobby RTD to provide more service (if they will not, then work to start our own city wide service while RTD only does the regional and airport service.
12. As a fervent rider of RTD, a current RTD bus operator, and a former RTD Board of Director candidate, I do not think Broomfield's relationship with RTD is the best. RTD has continually shorted Broomfield, as well as every other Northwest Metro city and town, of services we pay for. Even before the pandemic forced RTD to reduce service we still were not receiving the level of service we deserved or paid for. As a councilmember I will work with our District I candidate to lobby RTD to increase regional and airport bus services and further the completion of the B Line to Longmont. I will also work with them to increase available bike parking at stops and stations, increase bike capacity on buses, and formally allow for transport of e-bikes on buses (while following Federal DOT rules).
Brian Peotter (Ward 3 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Deven Shaff (Ward 3 councilmember candidate)
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
Just this last week on October 6 was Walk and Bike to School Day. My kids and I rode from our house to Kohl Elementary. I am located near the intersection of Kohl Street and Daphne Street. For the fastest and quickest route, we took Kohl Street all the way to Kohl Elementary. One of the most challenging issues with this route are the various intersections along the way where cars do not stop at the stop sign. Instead either they stop into the intersection or roll on through the stop sign without actually stopping at all. Because of the recent bike accident near the middle school, we are slowing way down as we come upon an intersection. Also, there is no bike lane marked on Kohl from the water towers all the way to 11th Street (and really not until Midway Blvd). Without some type of dividing marker, my kids tend to feel more confident on the sidewalk which adds to the vulnerability at intersections lacking in good sight-lines and also conflicts with pedestrians on the sidewalk. Lastly, the small width sidewalk and the number of cars parked on the streets from 11th to 10th street make this section very tricky to navigate for my kids and less experienced bikers. Riding on the sidewalk presents issues with cars closely parked near the sidewalk or in some cases extending over the sidewalk. Another possible route to school would be near the middle school, but this doesn't eliminate the tricky stretch from Miramonte Blvd to 10th street.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
For too many years, the life of the single occupant vehicle has dominated the transportation and land use policies of Broomfield. There are standards which have been well constructed and are in-line with developers. However, there are occasional instances where our parking minimums and the developers parking standards are different. In those instances, I am likely to question how to find the best number for the parking standard. I also take into consideration the ability for customers, employees, and visitors to take alternate means of travel. In light of climate change and the non-attainment zone, the number one contributor to air pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions is transportation and burning of fossil fuels. We must build our developments with access to alternative transportation means. At the same time, we must implement and construct alternative transportation means to our existing developments.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
For the past 4 years as a Councilmember serving the City and County of Broomfield, I have participated in state legislation and rulemakings to change state law or give Broomfield the ability to have local control over decisions when it comes to ozone, emissions, and oil and gas development. At the same time, I have been working with CCAT: Counties and Commissioners Acting Together to ensure we address the growing need for wildfire mitigation and widespread wildfire prevention. Lastly, I have worked with CC4CA: Colorado Communities for Climate Action to begin to implement sustainability measures at the state level to mitigate the effects of climate change.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
Midway Boulevard is an important corridor for Broomfield as it stretches east and west through Broomfield and divides the residential core of the City and County. Because of a large number of residents within a mile of this corridor, it offers the potential to minimize the first and last mile divide for people to safely access transit and other alternative modes of travel. This corridor should be built out with separated bike lanes as much as possible and remove the conflicts between vehicles and bicycles. I look forward to continuing moving this plan forward and working with the community to understand the very localized needs and issues along the corridor.
Bruce Leslie (Ward 4 councilmember candidate)
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
I ride a mountain bike and love the trails that are directly accessible from Anthem Ranch, riding to Erie, Lafayette or Lewisville. Mostly I ride for the beauty of the trails, to ride with a friend or on my own, taking photos along the way. I last rode about a month ago before I entered the race for Broomfield City Council, Ward 4!
2. What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red light cameras and speed cameras?
Because I don't ride on the streets, I'm less knowledgeable about vehicle traffic issues. In fact, I prefer the trails in order to avoid the risk of riding on the streets. I support strategies that increase safety of bicyclists such as the red light and speed cameras. Perhaps some day I'll feel safe enough to ride the streets.
3. Are you in support of road diets in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
Again, I support safety features, including re-striping to separate bicyclists and busses.
4. Are you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so, where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
Yes, we moved to Broomfield because of the open spaces, wildlife, flora and the views, which are so accessible along our many bike trails.. Acquiring additional open spaces, reaching the 40% County Open Space goal, is one I hear often from Broomfield residents. By including this goal in all new developments, especially by purchasing private properties, we can achieve the goal as we fully build out Broomfield's remaining undeveloped land.
I admire the many bicyclists we see using our roads and trails and would like to see bike use expanded both for health and environmental enhancements. I agree that strategies to separate riders from drivers is a crucial approach to protecting bicyclist's lives. I support strategies to make bicycling safer and will encourage more people to use their bikes, either on the street or along our trails.
Funds to achieve these goals should be derived from oil and gas revenues, most of which go into Broomfield's General Fund. A small amount currently also goes into the Open Space Fund. Increasing this amount for bicycle safety and trail expansion would provide the necessary funds to implement these strategies while also benefiting our environment, hikers and our views.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
Updating the codes makes sense, especially as parking is often a challenge. However, greater use of bikes could help reduce the demand for single car parking.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
Colorado is not meeting its Ozone requirements. Some of the problem is a result of this year's Western fires. The greater problem is the extensive oil and gas drilling, continued use of coal and automobiles. Tri-State and its energy producers must, as Mark Gabrial, President of United Power recently wrote, establish a new business model that increases the use of alternative energy. Colorado should continue its electric car incentive and collaborate with RTA, VIA and others to increase public transportation. Incentives to increase bicycle usage and open space, which helps filter the air and water are also significant strategies that should be pursued.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
With the advent of City Center and Baseline, increasing bicycle routes that encourage bicycle use will enhance our residents' safety and pleasure of community and shopping by bike. I envision pubs and restaurants along the bicycle routes that will invite couples and families to use their bikes to travel to different destinations, such as the new Butterfly Pavilion by bike, stopping for a pleasant meal or shopping experience along the way.
8. Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
Yes, Europe has long favored these approaches to auto safety and we are seeing more of these strategies applied in the US. Certainly, more of these approaches can be installed each time a road is being expanded or resurfaced in order to continuously improve safety - for both the driver and bicyclist.
9. As a council member, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield.
Bicycling is one of the most effective ways to enhance our air and environmental quality. Electric bikes are becoming more popular and extend the reach of the average bicyclist. We must do all we can to reduce ozone and other particulates and enhance our water resources. Bicycling, along with expanding electric vehicle use, are two key strategies to achieve environmental targets.
If elected, I will work with those coalitions seeking sustainable strategies to protect our air, water, wild life, flora and open land. Once these resources are tainted or gone, they may never be fully recovered. Nature has a way of filtering and reinvigorating our precious resources and we must do all we can to allow nature to perform its tasks and ensure the health and quality of life we all desire.
10. The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
I will collaborate with our Anthem Ranch Bike Club to support scheduled and future improvements and expansions. These neighbors and friends, along with our HOA and Broomfield Bikes, will provide the support and guidance I need to support these initiatives.
11. We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
I have always achieved goals through partnerships and collaborations. We can never achieve our goals alone. Thus, I will work with Broomfield Bikes and related associations to help me understand both the challenges and opportunities so that I may help achieve collective Quality of Life goals.
12. What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a council member?
There are many residents who have long envisioned expansion of RTD services, both bus and light rail. A new transit station along Rt 25 and Baseline is planned, which will help. But there is increasing frustration that an extension of light rail seems as far away today as ever. Senior's in particular are in need of individual transportation services, especially as they lose their ability to drive. VIA Mobility Services offers a potential solution, which I look forward to promoting should I be elected. Other entrepreneurs are developing similar services, leading me to anticipate solutions beyo9nd those provided by RTD; while concurrently, RTD needs to be more aggressive in expanding services, especially light rail, to better serve the growing population of our region.
Mindy Quiachon (Ward 4 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Todd Cohen (Ward 5 councilmember candidate)
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
Last weekend. I typically like to bike in the Dry Creek corridor down to Westminster City Park as well as other trails in Broomfield. I avoid riding on the streets as I don’t trust drivers and don’t feel protected enough yet.
2. What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red-light cameras and speed cameras?
Generally support as I have seen studies that suggest they reduce red light running, which is particularly dangerous for bicyclists. However, it seems they need to be matched with longer yellow lights to avoid sudden braking that can cause accidents. I have seen too many people running red lights without consequences so there is a need to address this, either with more patrol officers or automatic enforcement. If the automatic enforcement works, we can divert officers to other needs.
3. Are you in support of road diets in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
Yes, I especially like the green paint to denote bike lanes. We need to make bike lanes more visible to drivers and paint is the most inexpensive step we can take. I also like the idea of speed buttons or some kind of rumble strip (like you see separating the main lanes and the express lanes on I-25) to make drivers more physically aware of the bike lane line. Increased signage will help but people tend to become blind to them.
4. Are you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so, where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
Yes. I was a member of the Open Spaces and Trails Advisory Committee for five years before being appointed to the City Council. I also previously worked at Great Outdoors Colorado, a land conservation agency that funds trails, parks and other recreational amenities. Broomfield has a dedicated sales tax to fund open space acquisitions. About 20 percent of the city is undeveloped, mostly in the northeast corner of the City (and Ward 5) so there are opportunities there, mostly on the east side of I-25. There are some other opportunities where
developments have fallen through, or where we need to purchase land to complete trail connections. For instance, we need an underpass for Sheridan/120 where an incomplete trail behind the Kings Soopers runs between the city center to the open space at Lowell/120. There are barriers to complete this trail that also need to be acquired.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
I don’t think removing all the minimums is a good idea as it could result in people parking in neighborhoods or on streets that could impact traffic flow and the driver’s vision of upcoming bikers, walkers or other users. However, we do need to encourage developers to provide space for bike parking, dedicated trails and improve public transportation so people are encouraged to get out of their single-user car and find other means of transportation where possible. We also need to revise our EV parking requirements so there are
more charging locations throughout Broomfield.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
Climate change and an additional one million people (and their cars) moving into Colorado in the last decade are certainly combining forces to create the bad air, as well as wildfire smoke. We were very fortunate there were no major fires in Colorado this past summer. The pandemic visibly demonstrated how we could enjoy much cleaner our air would be if there were fewer cars on the road on a daily basis. Thus we need to encourage more remote or hybrid working where possible, recruit more high paying employers in Broomfield so
people can work closer to home (presently 86% of working Broomfielders commute out of the city), improve public transit, and increase multi-modal transportation options to encourage less use of cars. Won’t happen by next summer but once we get started I hope public support to keep the efforts going.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
This is challenging because of the limited options on “Speedway Blvd” but I think we need better crossings with flashing lights and possibly traffic cushions to help pedestrians and bicyclists get to the Commons in one piece. Any bike lane on Midway needs enhanced protection such as bollards, buttons and rumble strips. Particular attention needs to be paid to the straight stretch between Zuni and Lowell where drivers are becoming accustomed to driving at a higher rate of speed and don’t adjust when they go west past Lowell despite
the presence of the Commons and more pedestrian crossings.
8. Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
I think roundabouts reduce braking and accelerations for cars, thus smoothing traffic and reducing exhaust. But I recognize they are not very safe for bicyclists, who often need to use crosswalks with pedestrians to safely get through them if it’s a busy roadway. I think they are okay for quieter, slower neighborhood traffic but not for higher speed arterials unless there is an overpass or underpass for bikes. I do like bollards to keep cars from crossing into another lane.
9. As a councilmember, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield?
I am very receptive in their work and very gratified that the city has the foresight to create the committee. It will force the city to pay more attention to sustainability goals and initiatives, so it’s a good move. We have to make our way of life more sustainability, particularly our energy sources. ACES is sending a Zero Waste plan to Council in December. We need to increase recycling as our diversion rate now is too low as most trash haulers in the city don’t offer curbside. I also would like to explore having one service for the entire city to reduce the number of trash trucks on our streets. This would be safer, quieter, and remove trucks from our streets which also would reduce wear and tear on roads. ACES is
also sending a Greenhouse Gas reduction strategy to council in January, which I look forward to seeing.
10. The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
A good portion of Ward 5 is yet to be built out so there are several opportunities, notably the improvements to Huron Street going north which will improve bike access to the Northeast Corner of the city – and make it possible to get over the Northwest Parkway more safely. I will advocate for more safety measures on Sheridan’s curve at the Parkway and crossing as well. There are plans underway for a major regional trail along State Highway 7 to connect Boulder to Brighton through Broomfield including a connection to a coming transit hub at I-25. This will increase opportunities for residents in NE Broomfield to bike and bus to work and other destinations. I will work to see these projects are multi-modal. Land for a new open space and park north of Highway 7 has already been purchased so I hope they will become hubs for a network of trails. My stated goal is for the city to meet its 40% open lands goal and work to ensure every resident is within a 10 minute walk of open space or parks.
11. We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
To be concise, support sustainability goals as developed by ACES; support improvements to public transportation and non-vehicular traffic infrastructure; support recruitment of high wage employers so more people can work closer to home in Broomfield (or work remotely); and support policies that require more EV charging stations (with the hope EVs become less expensive this decade).
12. What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a councilmember?
I am not intimately familiar with the city’s relationship (yet) though I have been learning more now that I am on council. I do know RTD’s reputation is not good since the Northside has not received what was promised to it in terms of mass transit routes. By its location, Broomfield is in the middle of several major multimodal transportation projects, so we will have some leverage on the design and execution of those projects. I know the current Council majority – which includes me – is very interested in ensuring expanded bike lanes and trail connections as these projects progress.
Grayson Hofferber (Ward 5 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Although state and federal elections may get more headlines, local elections matter too - and likely have a larger impact your daily life! In the combined city and county government of Broomfield, mayors are elected for a two-year term and councilmembers are elected for a four-year term. The city limits are divided into five wards, and each ward elects two councilmembers (alternating every two years).
On your ballot this fall you'll be able to choose one candidate for mayor and one councilmember for the ward where you live. For more information on elections and candidates, including ensuring your voter registration is up-to-date, please see https://www.broomfield.org/153/Elections and https://www.broomfield.org/1069/Candidate-and-Campaign-Information.
Do you have an opinion on which candidates will be best for biking in Broomfield? Start a civil discussion on our social media pages!
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The Questions
Broomfield Bikes emailed all candidates for office the list of questions below. Candidates were given ten days to respond and their responses are posted below. Broomfield Bikes is not endorsing any specific candidates and the information below is provided so that residents are able to make a more informed decision while voting. Candidates are ordered alphabetically by last name.
- When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
- What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red light cameras and speed cameras?
- Are you in support of road diets
in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and
allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
- Are
you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so,
where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and
where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
- Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
- This
summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a
record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category.
This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture
outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for
everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports
that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from
cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your
plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer
is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
- The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
- Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
- As a councilmember, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield?
- The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
- We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
- What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a councilmember?
The Responses
Guyleen Castriotta (mayoral candidate)
I appreciate your engagement on the issue of bike safety and I am one of those residents that don’t bike as much as I want to because I just don’t feel safe.
1. The last time I rode my bike was about a year ago and the weather changed dramatically from beautiful and sunny to monsoon winds. It wasn’t a pleasant experience and I’m not a fan of these erratic weather shifts.
5. The parking ratios in our code are a guideline and can be adjusted with variances for individual projects that may require less. An underparked development can cause safety issues if residents can’t park close to their homes. I don’t think removing the parking minimums is the solution but rather to approach project proposals on a case by case basis.
6. This Council has enacted concrete goals to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions in Broomfield. We also participate in the AQCC and Transportation rule making process to tighten regulations on GHG emissions.
7. We definitely need dedicated, separated bike lanes on Midway. I’m not a super confident cyclist and unless there is a dedicated lane, I will ride on the sidewalk. I will continue to advocate for safer bicycle lanes on Midway.
Thank you for the opportunity to engage with the Broomfield Bikes Community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have further questions.
In gratitude,
Guyleen
Kimberly Groom (mayoral candidate)
No response received
Chriss Hammerschmidt (Ward 1 councilmember candidate)
No response received
James Marsh-Holschen (Ward 1 councilmember candidate)
Thank you for the opportunity to answer your questions on this vital topic. Please find my answers below.
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
We ride bikes sporadically with our kids in the trailer. Also, my 1st grade daughter, Virginia rides her bike to school with me every morning. The last time I rode a bike was from our house in Brandywine to the Northside Tavern
2. What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red light cameras and speed cameras?
I have privacy concerns regarding adding to cameras in the community. That being said, the increase in traffic related issues warrants further study of speed and red light related enforcement cameras to see if could have an impact on traffic safety.
3. Are you in support of road diets in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
Yes
4. Are you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so, where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
Yes. I do believe our open space tax should be utilized to purchase open spaces, as well as utilizing developer fees. Infill developments can provide opportunities for additional open spaces and parks.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
I am in favor of reevaluating the current parking requirements to take into consideration the needed changes in density, public transportation, and looking into the future, the advent of driverless technology.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
At the local level, I intend to do everything we can to reduce pollution such as from oil & gas operations as well as move the CCOB buildings and vehicles to 100% clean energy as quickly as possible. I also plan to encourage public transportation, including working towards a Broomfield circular between areas such as Arista, Flat Irons, the new Town Square, and the Athem/Baseline development, to encourage less traffic and the need for parking. At the regional/state level, I will work with our partners to work towards a movement away from oil and gas development in Colorado as well as encouraging public transsportation such as Front Range Rail.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
I would like to see Midway move away from a major arterial through the heart of Broomfield to more of a local road. Reducing the speed on midway, especially between Sheridan and 287 where it is bordered by front-facing home. Speed control devices, such as narrowing at the crosswalks, and a possible light at Ash St where both Northmoor and Highland Park exit onto Midway. In addition, dedicated protected bike lanes along all of Broomfield major roads, especially Midway.
8. Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
Absolutely
9. As a councilmember, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield?
I believe the ACES committee's mandate should be divided and/or expanded to require an approval process during the development process for all plans.
10. The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
To be completely honest, I had not read through the Assessment prior to filing out this questionnaire. As it is a well thought out and detailed assessment, I would do it disservice to speak on it prior to reading it through carefully. That is something I will do in the coming weeks, and I am committed to implementing its recommendations in order to ensure that Broomfield is a community which prioritizes multimodal transportation systems and moves away from car-centric suburban mindset that has dominated development for far too long.
11. We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
As mentioned above, commit to 100% renewable energy sources. Move Broomfield's vehicle fleet to all electric vehicles as soon as is technologically feasible. Work with our federal, state, and regional partners to commit to end Oil & Gas production in Colorado as quickly as is possible while encouraging and incentivizing sustainable building and retrofitting existing homes and businesses with solar, gray water, etc, through local incentives.
12. What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a councilmember?
RTD has not served the residents of Broomfield well at all. We have paid more than our share of Fast track, with little to show for it. We were promised rail and we have not received it due to mismanagement an unrealistic cost projections. I will work with our partners that the promises are kept to the residents of Broomfield, including a rail stop. Realistically, that might occur through the upcoming Front Range Rail proposal, but I will push for the line to be built along I-36 between Denver and Boulder, and will insist on a stop at the First Bank Center park and ride.
Thank you for the opportunity to speak on these issues and I look forward to working with you moving forward.
Brent Hultman (Ward 2 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Austin Ward (Ward 2 councilmember candidate)
Thank you for the opportunity to answer your questions regarding bikes and bike infrastructure in Broomfield. This issue is very important to me because I use my bike to get almost everywhere I go. I bike to work (Broomfield to Boulder) about 95% of the time, and most of my campaign events I have biked to. Below are my answers to your questions.
1.The last time I rode my bike in Broomfield was Saturday the 9th of October, I rode to a campaign canvass kickoff event in First Filling from my apartment complex by the intersection of Wadsworth and HWY 128. The ride wasn't terrible, but crossing Wadsworth at HWY 128 is tedious and at times scary. I have to do a U shape pattern to follow the sidewalks as there is no dedicated crossing of Wads on the north side of 128. The sidewalk west of Wads on the south side of 128 is littered with rocks, plants, sand, and other debris making biking hazardous.
2. I think the use of red light cameras and speed cameras would be a positive thing to have. The IIHS reports that red light running decreased substantially when those cameras were put in place and front to side impact crashes with cars were down. They did note that in some studies, rear end collisions were up slightly but not enough to outweigh the benefit from the reduced side impact collisions. While these studies did not talk about the rate of collisions between cars and bikes at intersections, I think it is safe to deduce that those collisions would also decrease. Personally I have seen that speed cameras significantly reduce speeders, as I drive for RTD in Boulder and Boulder uses a speed camera on Moorehead Dr. frequently.
3. Part of my goal is to ensure no roads are widened in Broomfield, and we rework our current roads to allow for Bus only lanes, and protected bike lanes. Most of the time I refuse to ride on the road, unless I'm on a side street that doesn't see much traffic, because I don't feel protected from the 4000 lbs of steel being hurled down the road. Our side streets could have narrow lanes for cars, which would help slow down traffic, use parked cars as a buffer between moving traffic and bikes (allowing for a small buffer room between parked cars and bike lanes so opening doors do not interfere with bike traffic), and making sidewalks along busy roads wider so they become multimodal paths and have vegetation to act as a buffer from traffic and noise.
4. I am supportive of more open space, and increased connectivity to those open spaces. To pay for the open space, I would first require that a certain amount of land on new residential builds be set aside for open space that will be paid for by the developer, and second I would like to work with existing businesses to convert part of their parking lots to open space in exchange for a temporary tax reduction or other financial incentive.
5. Another goal of mine is to eliminate parking minimums and institute parking maximums. We have a lot of wasted space dedicated to parking lots that could be repurposed for housing, open space, etc.
6. While I recognize that a portion of the poor air quality this summer was from wildfires on the west coast, it would be arrogant of me to say that most of our poor air quality is from those fires and assume that we cannot help in reducing our contribution of ozone from volatile organic compounds (VOC's) into the atmosphere. My plan is multi pronged to address this issue, and includes reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT's), increasing the availability of public transit, increasing protected bike lanes and bike parking, increasing the public charging infrastructure, quickly transitioning the cities fleet of vehicles to all electric or other renewable energy sources, such as hydrogen fuel cell, and increasing the use of solar panels on residential and commercial buildings.
7. For Midway Blvd, I would like to see the street narrowed to help with traffic speed by using the parked cars on one side to act as a barrier for a bike lane, and widen the sidewalks on both sides to allow for pedestrians, mobility devices, and bikes. Expanded public transit service, both regional and local bus services are also a necessity. Lastly, I would like to see more mixed use development over the parking lots that surround Midway Blvd and US 287.
8. I am in favor of using roundabouts, ballards, and on streat diagonal parking to increase safety. Roundabouts not only slow down traffic, but they allow for traffic to keep moving which helps reduce the number of idling cars and thus reduce, to a small degree, pollution.
9. As a councilmember I will carefully look over all reports from the ACES committee, and see how they overlap with current proposals facing the council. If they don't have significant overlap I will push for reasons as to why they don't, how we can help ensure more recommendations are met, and if need be, vote against the proposals.
10. According to the study, in my Ward 120th/US287, connectivity to transit hubs from the 36 bikeway, and industrial lane had the most comments for improvement. I will regularly request updates from staff about where progress is, talk with stakeholders in the region to help with funding, and meet with constituents to give them updates and send emails to staff if necessary.
11. My goals for my term in office to address climate change will be to require all new buildings to be LEED certified, use renewable energy sources to the greatest extent possible, increase the walkability and bikeability of our community. Working with current building owners to convert them to renewable energy sources is even more important. I will also work to expand public charging infrastructure, convert our city fleet to all electric, start a bike share program, eliminate single use plastics, start a city wide composting program, and lobby RTD to provide more service (if they will not, then work to start our own city wide service while RTD only does the regional and airport service.
12. As a fervent rider of RTD, a current RTD bus operator, and a former RTD Board of Director candidate, I do not think Broomfield's relationship with RTD is the best. RTD has continually shorted Broomfield, as well as every other Northwest Metro city and town, of services we pay for. Even before the pandemic forced RTD to reduce service we still were not receiving the level of service we deserved or paid for. As a councilmember I will work with our District I candidate to lobby RTD to increase regional and airport bus services and further the completion of the B Line to Longmont. I will also work with them to increase available bike parking at stops and stations, increase bike capacity on buses, and formally allow for transport of e-bikes on buses (while following Federal DOT rules).
Brian Peotter (Ward 3 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Deven Shaff (Ward 3 councilmember candidate)
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
Just this last week on October 6 was Walk and Bike to School Day. My kids and I rode from our house to Kohl Elementary. I am located near the intersection of Kohl Street and Daphne Street. For the fastest and quickest route, we took Kohl Street all the way to Kohl Elementary. One of the most challenging issues with this route are the various intersections along the way where cars do not stop at the stop sign. Instead either they stop into the intersection or roll on through the stop sign without actually stopping at all. Because of the recent bike accident near the middle school, we are slowing way down as we come upon an intersection. Also, there is no bike lane marked on Kohl from the water towers all the way to 11th Street (and really not until Midway Blvd). Without some type of dividing marker, my kids tend to feel more confident on the sidewalk which adds to the vulnerability at intersections lacking in good sight-lines and also conflicts with pedestrians on the sidewalk. Lastly, the small width sidewalk and the number of cars parked on the streets from 11th to 10th street make this section very tricky to navigate for my kids and less experienced bikers. Riding on the sidewalk presents issues with cars closely parked near the sidewalk or in some cases extending over the sidewalk. Another possible route to school would be near the middle school, but this doesn't eliminate the tricky stretch from Miramonte Blvd to 10th street.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
For too many years, the life of the single occupant vehicle has dominated the transportation and land use policies of Broomfield. There are standards which have been well constructed and are in-line with developers. However, there are occasional instances where our parking minimums and the developers parking standards are different. In those instances, I am likely to question how to find the best number for the parking standard. I also take into consideration the ability for customers, employees, and visitors to take alternate means of travel. In light of climate change and the non-attainment zone, the number one contributor to air pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions is transportation and burning of fossil fuels. We must build our developments with access to alternative transportation means. At the same time, we must implement and construct alternative transportation means to our existing developments.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
For the past 4 years as a Councilmember serving the City and County of Broomfield, I have participated in state legislation and rulemakings to change state law or give Broomfield the ability to have local control over decisions when it comes to ozone, emissions, and oil and gas development. At the same time, I have been working with CCAT: Counties and Commissioners Acting Together to ensure we address the growing need for wildfire mitigation and widespread wildfire prevention. Lastly, I have worked with CC4CA: Colorado Communities for Climate Action to begin to implement sustainability measures at the state level to mitigate the effects of climate change.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
Midway Boulevard is an important corridor for Broomfield as it stretches east and west through Broomfield and divides the residential core of the City and County. Because of a large number of residents within a mile of this corridor, it offers the potential to minimize the first and last mile divide for people to safely access transit and other alternative modes of travel. This corridor should be built out with separated bike lanes as much as possible and remove the conflicts between vehicles and bicycles. I look forward to continuing moving this plan forward and working with the community to understand the very localized needs and issues along the corridor.
Bruce Leslie (Ward 4 councilmember candidate)
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
I ride a mountain bike and love the trails that are directly accessible from Anthem Ranch, riding to Erie, Lafayette or Lewisville. Mostly I ride for the beauty of the trails, to ride with a friend or on my own, taking photos along the way. I last rode about a month ago before I entered the race for Broomfield City Council, Ward 4!
2. What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red light cameras and speed cameras?
Because I don't ride on the streets, I'm less knowledgeable about vehicle traffic issues. In fact, I prefer the trails in order to avoid the risk of riding on the streets. I support strategies that increase safety of bicyclists such as the red light and speed cameras. Perhaps some day I'll feel safe enough to ride the streets.
3. Are you in support of road diets in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
Again, I support safety features, including re-striping to separate bicyclists and busses.
4. Are you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so, where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
Yes, we moved to Broomfield because of the open spaces, wildlife, flora and the views, which are so accessible along our many bike trails.. Acquiring additional open spaces, reaching the 40% County Open Space goal, is one I hear often from Broomfield residents. By including this goal in all new developments, especially by purchasing private properties, we can achieve the goal as we fully build out Broomfield's remaining undeveloped land.
I admire the many bicyclists we see using our roads and trails and would like to see bike use expanded both for health and environmental enhancements. I agree that strategies to separate riders from drivers is a crucial approach to protecting bicyclist's lives. I support strategies to make bicycling safer and will encourage more people to use their bikes, either on the street or along our trails.
Funds to achieve these goals should be derived from oil and gas revenues, most of which go into Broomfield's General Fund. A small amount currently also goes into the Open Space Fund. Increasing this amount for bicycle safety and trail expansion would provide the necessary funds to implement these strategies while also benefiting our environment, hikers and our views.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
Updating the codes makes sense, especially as parking is often a challenge. However, greater use of bikes could help reduce the demand for single car parking.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
Colorado is not meeting its Ozone requirements. Some of the problem is a result of this year's Western fires. The greater problem is the extensive oil and gas drilling, continued use of coal and automobiles. Tri-State and its energy producers must, as Mark Gabrial, President of United Power recently wrote, establish a new business model that increases the use of alternative energy. Colorado should continue its electric car incentive and collaborate with RTA, VIA and others to increase public transportation. Incentives to increase bicycle usage and open space, which helps filter the air and water are also significant strategies that should be pursued.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
With the advent of City Center and Baseline, increasing bicycle routes that encourage bicycle use will enhance our residents' safety and pleasure of community and shopping by bike. I envision pubs and restaurants along the bicycle routes that will invite couples and families to use their bikes to travel to different destinations, such as the new Butterfly Pavilion by bike, stopping for a pleasant meal or shopping experience along the way.
8. Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
Yes, Europe has long favored these approaches to auto safety and we are seeing more of these strategies applied in the US. Certainly, more of these approaches can be installed each time a road is being expanded or resurfaced in order to continuously improve safety - for both the driver and bicyclist.
9. As a council member, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield.
Bicycling is one of the most effective ways to enhance our air and environmental quality. Electric bikes are becoming more popular and extend the reach of the average bicyclist. We must do all we can to reduce ozone and other particulates and enhance our water resources. Bicycling, along with expanding electric vehicle use, are two key strategies to achieve environmental targets.
If elected, I will work with those coalitions seeking sustainable strategies to protect our air, water, wild life, flora and open land. Once these resources are tainted or gone, they may never be fully recovered. Nature has a way of filtering and reinvigorating our precious resources and we must do all we can to allow nature to perform its tasks and ensure the health and quality of life we all desire.
10. The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
I will collaborate with our Anthem Ranch Bike Club to support scheduled and future improvements and expansions. These neighbors and friends, along with our HOA and Broomfield Bikes, will provide the support and guidance I need to support these initiatives.
11. We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
I have always achieved goals through partnerships and collaborations. We can never achieve our goals alone. Thus, I will work with Broomfield Bikes and related associations to help me understand both the challenges and opportunities so that I may help achieve collective Quality of Life goals.
12. What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a council member?
There are many residents who have long envisioned expansion of RTD services, both bus and light rail. A new transit station along Rt 25 and Baseline is planned, which will help. But there is increasing frustration that an extension of light rail seems as far away today as ever. Senior's in particular are in need of individual transportation services, especially as they lose their ability to drive. VIA Mobility Services offers a potential solution, which I look forward to promoting should I be elected. Other entrepreneurs are developing similar services, leading me to anticipate solutions beyo9nd those provided by RTD; while concurrently, RTD needs to be more aggressive in expanding services, especially light rail, to better serve the growing population of our region.
Mindy Quiachon (Ward 4 councilmember candidate)
No response received
Todd Cohen (Ward 5 councilmember candidate)
1. When was the last time you rode a bicycle in Broomfield? Where did you go, and what was your experience like?
Last weekend. I typically like to bike in the Dry Creek corridor down to Westminster City Park as well as other trails in Broomfield. I avoid riding on the streets as I don’t trust drivers and don’t feel protected enough yet.
2. What are your thoughts on automated enforcement for vehicle traffic, such as red-light cameras and speed cameras?
Generally support as I have seen studies that suggest they reduce red light running, which is particularly dangerous for bicyclists. However, it seems they need to be matched with longer yellow lights to avoid sudden braking that can cause accidents. I have seen too many people running red lights without consequences so there is a need to address this, either with more patrol officers or automatic enforcement. If the automatic enforcement works, we can divert officers to other needs.
3. Are you in support of road diets in Broomfield, whereby roads are re-striped to increase safety and allocate more space for other road users such as bicyclists and buses?
Yes, I especially like the green paint to denote bike lanes. We need to make bike lanes more visible to drivers and paint is the most inexpensive step we can take. I also like the idea of speed buttons or some kind of rumble strip (like you see separating the main lanes and the express lanes on I-25) to make drivers more physically aware of the bike lane line. Increased signage will help but people tend to become blind to them.
4. Are you in support of funding for additional open space purchases? If so, where do you see opportunities to expand Broomfield's open space, and where do you suggest these funds be sourced from?
Yes. I was a member of the Open Spaces and Trails Advisory Committee for five years before being appointed to the City Council. I also previously worked at Great Outdoors Colorado, a land conservation agency that funds trails, parks and other recreational amenities. Broomfield has a dedicated sales tax to fund open space acquisitions. About 20 percent of the city is undeveloped, mostly in the northeast corner of the City (and Ward 5) so there are opportunities there, mostly on the east side of I-25. There are some other opportunities where
developments have fallen through, or where we need to purchase land to complete trail connections. For instance, we need an underpass for Sheridan/120 where an incomplete trail behind the Kings Soopers runs between the city center to the open space at Lowell/120. There are barriers to complete this trail that also need to be acquired.
5. Are you in favor of reducing or removing the parking minimums that are specified in the Broomfield Municipal Code and letting the free market decide how much automobile parking a business should have, rather than ordinances written in the 1970s?
I don’t think removing all the minimums is a good idea as it could result in people parking in neighborhoods or on streets that could impact traffic flow and the driver’s vision of upcoming bikers, walkers or other users. However, we do need to encourage developers to provide space for bike parking, dedicated trails and improve public transportation so people are encouraged to get out of their single-user car and find other means of transportation where possible. We also need to revise our EV parking requirements so there are
more charging locations throughout Broomfield.
6. This summer residents of Broomfield suffered from terrible air quality as a record number of days reached into the "unhealthy for all" category. This kept many residents indoors, either unwilling or unable to venture outside due to poor air quality, but sadly this was not an option for everyone. Colorado Public Radio reports that this summer's dangerous air quality has more to do with ozone from cars & oil and gas development, than from wildfires. What is your plan to improve air quality for Broomfield residents so that next summer is not a repeat of this summer's dangerous air quality?
Climate change and an additional one million people (and their cars) moving into Colorado in the last decade are certainly combining forces to create the bad air, as well as wildfire smoke. We were very fortunate there were no major fires in Colorado this past summer. The pandemic visibly demonstrated how we could enjoy much cleaner our air would be if there were fewer cars on the road on a daily basis. Thus we need to encourage more remote or hybrid working where possible, recruit more high paying employers in Broomfield so
people can work closer to home (presently 86% of working Broomfielders commute out of the city), improve public transit, and increase multi-modal transportation options to encourage less use of cars. Won’t happen by next summer but once we get started I hope public support to keep the efforts going.
7. The Midway Boulevard Plan is currently underway. What is your vision for this corridor that runs through the center of the city?
This is challenging because of the limited options on “Speedway Blvd” but I think we need better crossings with flashing lights and possibly traffic cushions to help pedestrians and bicyclists get to the Commons in one piece. Any bike lane on Midway needs enhanced protection such as bollards, buttons and rumble strips. Particular attention needs to be paid to the straight stretch between Zuni and Lowell where drivers are becoming accustomed to driving at a higher rate of speed and don’t adjust when they go west past Lowell despite
the presence of the Commons and more pedestrian crossings.
8. Are you in favor of traffic calming devices such as roundabouts, on-street diagonal parking, and bollards that have been proven to increase safety?
I think roundabouts reduce braking and accelerations for cars, thus smoothing traffic and reducing exhaust. But I recognize they are not very safe for bicyclists, who often need to use crosswalks with pedestrians to safely get through them if it’s a busy roadway. I think they are okay for quieter, slower neighborhood traffic but not for higher speed arterials unless there is an overpass or underpass for bikes. I do like bollards to keep cars from crossing into another lane.
9. As a councilmember, how will you consider recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Environmental Sustainability (ACES) when developing plans and goals for Broomfield?
I am very receptive in their work and very gratified that the city has the foresight to create the committee. It will force the city to pay more attention to sustainability goals and initiatives, so it’s a good move. We have to make our way of life more sustainability, particularly our energy sources. ACES is sending a Zero Waste plan to Council in December. We need to increase recycling as our diversion rate now is too low as most trash haulers in the city don’t offer curbside. I also would like to explore having one service for the entire city to reduce the number of trash trucks on our streets. This would be safer, quieter, and remove trucks from our streets which also would reduce wear and tear on roads. ACES is
also sending a Greenhouse Gas reduction strategy to council in January, which I look forward to seeing.
10. The Broomfield Bicycle & Pedestrian Assessment is now available. What improvements are planned for your Ward, and how will you work to see these come to reality to serve your Ward's constituents?
A good portion of Ward 5 is yet to be built out so there are several opportunities, notably the improvements to Huron Street going north which will improve bike access to the Northeast Corner of the city – and make it possible to get over the Northwest Parkway more safely. I will advocate for more safety measures on Sheridan’s curve at the Parkway and crossing as well. There are plans underway for a major regional trail along State Highway 7 to connect Boulder to Brighton through Broomfield including a connection to a coming transit hub at I-25. This will increase opportunities for residents in NE Broomfield to bike and bus to work and other destinations. I will work to see these projects are multi-modal. Land for a new open space and park north of Highway 7 has already been purchased so I hope they will become hubs for a network of trails. My stated goal is for the city to meet its 40% open lands goal and work to ensure every resident is within a 10 minute walk of open space or parks.
11. We have seen a number of events and disasters related to climate change, such as the heat dome in the Pacific Northwest, fires in California, Oregon, and elsewhere globally, flooding in New York, and the hottest summer recorded since record-keeping began. In addition, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released a stark report informing us all that without urgent and significant action now, humanity will face a disastrous future. How do you plan to address climate change issues during your term?
To be concise, support sustainability goals as developed by ACES; support improvements to public transportation and non-vehicular traffic infrastructure; support recruitment of high wage employers so more people can work closer to home in Broomfield (or work remotely); and support policies that require more EV charging stations (with the hope EVs become less expensive this decade).
12. What are your opinions on Broomfield's relationship with RTD? How well is RTD currently serving the residents of Broomfield? What would you like to see from RTD in the future, and how will you work towards that as a councilmember?
I am not intimately familiar with the city’s relationship (yet) though I have been learning more now that I am on council. I do know RTD’s reputation is not good since the Northside has not received what was promised to it in terms of mass transit routes. By its location, Broomfield is in the middle of several major multimodal transportation projects, so we will have some leverage on the design and execution of those projects. I know the current Council majority – which includes me – is very interested in ensuring expanded bike lanes and trail connections as these projects progress.
Grayson Hofferber (Ward 5 councilmember candidate)
No response received
