Following Councilwoman's Paula Sandoval's decision not to run for re-election, I am thrilled to announce that I am back in the race for Denver City Council District 1!

I decided to get back in the Council race because Northwest Denver deserves a strong leader. A leader who understands the need to forge strong relationships with a new Mayor, administration and collegues on City Council. A leader who will be there in neighborhoods and community meetings listening to your concerns and working in partnership to develop solutions. A leader who understands strong local schools form the backbone of our community. A leader who understands the important role neighborhood business districts have with healthy communities in better sustaining our quality of life. A leader who works full time on your behalf.

I've been busy since our strong 2nd place finish in the City Council Spring 2010 special election. I have joined the city of Denver's Sustainable Food Policy Council and the Board of Feed Denver, helped develop and write a funding proposal for a community wellness initiative with Sloan's Lake and Jefferson Park neighbors, served on Denver's Elections Model Advisory Committee, and participated in meetings on important neighborhood issues such as the library site selection and the Federal Boulevard Partnership's Streetscaping effort.

I will be reaching out to all my northwest neighbors in the coming weeks. If you'd like to contact me and the campaign, use our Take Action page to submit a request. I'd be happy to meet in your home or business to discuss issues of importance to you and your neighbors.

The decision to seek elected office came naturally to me.  I derive a deep sense of satisfaction from community service.  With a wealth of nonprofit organizations in Denver and Council District 1 particularly, limitless opportunities abound to get involved, help others and establish deeper roots within our neighborhood. Mi Casa recently featured work I did as a volunteer helping children learn how to grow their own vegetables (read about it here). As an elected official, I will carry forward that volunteer spirit, and encourage others to get involved.  If you are a go-getter, too, then join me in this campaign, volunteer here.

Schools as Community Centers

As the parent of a two-year old, the quality and position of the public schools in Denver City Council District 1 informs the heart of my campaign.  Why do the lights go out in our neighborhood schools when the final bell rings?  Rather than abandoning these places each afternoon, let's turn our neighborhood schools into vibrant activity centers that include community gardens, meeting spaces for social clubs and classrooms for adult education. Let's take a more active role in our schools and make them special places for all of us.  Pledge your support to get involved, click here to learn more. 

Local, Independent Businesses

I live in Northwest Denver in large part because unique and wonderful Mom & Pop establishments characterize our historic streetcar shopping districts.  Spaced throughout our neighborhood, I can walk or ride my bike to charming and unusual venues for entertainment, cultural events, dining, shopping and services.  These places reflect the diverse make-up of our neighborhood. It feels terrific to spend my money close to home where those dollars will have a bigger impact in our local economy.  I encourage you to join me and buy local, learn more about my support for local businesses here.