Editor’s note: Active voter registration numbers are current as of Sept. 25, 2024, according to the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office. The candidates’ responses have been edited for clarity and brevity. 

Arapahoe County, which has more than 650,000 residents in 13 towns and cities, is holding elections for three of five Board of County commissioner seats.

Commissioners serve as the legislative and administrative body for the county. They oversee departments, hire the management team, administer county services, adopt ordinances and approve land use decisions within unincorporated Arapahoe County.

The county is made up of five districts, each represented by a commissioner.

Voter registration: Democrats: 121,761; Republicans: 81,389; Unaffiliated: 199,776. Total active voters: 411,379

District 1

The district includes the cities of Sheridan, Bow Mar, Columbine Valley, Englewood, Littleton, Cherry Hills Village, western Centennial and parts of unincorporated northern Arapahoe County.

Carrie Warren-Gully (incumbent)

Website: carrie4commissioner.com

Education: Bachelor’s degrees in Biological Sciences and Political Science, Mount Holyoke College, Massachusetts; Master’s in Public Administration, University of Colorado Denver

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them?

Affordability is one of the biggest issues facing Arapahoe County. The cost of living is so high, causing many residents of Arapahoe County to have to make decisions about whether to pay rent or put food on the table. I have been at the forefront in support of making affordable housing more accessible, finding people high-quality jobs that provide a living wage and benefits to support their families, and a proponent of every resident having access to a good education.

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

We are in a housing crisis in Arapahoe County and in the state. Two years ago, I worked very hard to bring our 13 cities together to determine how many housing units we had collectively approved to be built, how many were in production, how many were not being built and why. We also worked to determine the types of housing units that were anticipated to be built and did we have any gaps in type of housing. What we learned is we have close to 110,000 units approved to be built and most are either for rent apartments or single family homes. Additionally, many units are not moving forward at this time due to interest rates and/or the high cost of supplies and lack of labor supply. Arapahoe County needs to work with all the cities in our county to work with developers that are willing to help us build housing units that fill specific gap areas such as small studio units that can be used as transitional housing, we need to build units that are subsidized for families that can not afford full market value. We need to consider housing that will support individuals that may need accessible homes due to mobility issues. We need entry level units for first time home buyers such as condominiums and townhomes and lastly we need to be planning for our large growth in population that is over 65+ and may wish to downsize or need additional assistance. This can only be done by everyone coming together to build a regional model. That includes our cities, businesses, home developers, affordable housing developers and our state and federal legislators to advocate for additional funding since there has been a steady decrease in housing at the federal level.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future? 

Arapahoe County is one of the fastest growing counties in our state. By 2030, it is estimated that we will be the largest and while that brings some wonderful opportunities it also creates some very complex and difficult issues. We need to be planning for that growth so that we can support or infrastructure, our businesses, our public safety and our residents. In Colorado we have chosen to support many of our government entities through our property taxes. Arapahoe County general fund is supported almost solely by property taxes. We only have one sales tax which the voters approved for open spaces. Additionally, we are only one of 10 counties out of 64 in our state that are still constrained by TABOR. Although we are growing we can not keep up with growth due to these constraints. Now put into place property tax reductions made by the state legislature over the past two legislative sessions and our residents will see reductions in services across the community. Our backlog in capitol construction and road maintenance will grow, the ability of our sheriffs department to respond in a timely manner will be effected, funding availability to tackle regional issues, including housing, with our cities will decrease and support of our partners to provide mental health services in our community will diminish. In Arapahoe County, we are asking our voters to retain our full funding amount in order to provide these services and I ask our voters to support 1A so that we are able to make investments in our community. Even with the support of 1A, the reduction in taxes from the legislature will impact our ability to provide services. As a member of the executive budget committee I pride myself on making sure that we make budget decisions in a thoughtful manner with the least impact to the services we provide our residents. This includes using technology more to augment our work, to collaborate on regional projects so that we can pool our resources, and to stick to the mandated and essential and mandated services required of the county. We will always structurally balance our budget! However, I will continue to have community conversations with our residents and businesses to determine the the types of investments needed in our growing county to make sure that we have a thriving community for the Arapahoe County of 2030!

Josh Lallement

Website: josh23airness.wixsite.com/joshualallement

Education: Heritage High School, Liberty Toastmasters Denver

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them?

The same issues facing society of polarization, division, and the differing ideas of how to create a more harmonious and free society. The county is facing a budget shortfall, and the only current plan is to increase taxes. My solution: First, honesty. Knowing that I don’t know everything, I will work to listen to others especially the citizens of Arapahoe. And, then find areas to mix in and steer towards some of my own libertarian principles. As leadership is about communication and half of communication is listening.

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

Find what part of the county government can be revised, repurposed or cut. My big idea to this end to start is the Arapahoe County Open spaces. Arapahoe County Open Space program along with the 32,000 acres of open space, trailheads and parks except for the Arapahoe County fairgrounds be returned to the Northern Arapaho Tribe of the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming under the framework of a leasing agreement. For the purpose of management and conservation of the open space land. This will take no funds as it will allow the county to cut the sales tax that currently pays for the open space management.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future?

I support lowering property taxes and other county taxes or fees to one dollar. The nickel and dime taxation adds up and punishes longtime citizens of the county and makes it harder for young, migrating people to achieve and prosper. Setting property taxes to one-dollar, as well as reducing other county taxes, and fees to one-dollar. Cutting taxes and fees will open up free market innovations, competition, and choices.

Tyler Linnebur

Website: tyler4commissioner.com

Education: Bachelor’s in Business Administration Finance with minor in Business Ethics and Legal Studies, University of Denver; Master of Accountancy, University of Denver; Working on master’s degree in Mineral and Energy Economic, Colorado School of Mines

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them?

Arapahoe County’s biggest challenges include tight budget constraints, rising living costs — especially housing affordability — and a growing homelessness crisis. Solving these problems will require a range of solutions. To address the budget issues, I will advocate for a thorough audit of all county programs to identify those that aren’t delivering sufficient results and shift funding to more effective initiatives. For instance, despite a significant increase in spending, homelessness has risen from 240 in 2020 to 650 in 2024, according to the Point-in-Time count by the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative. By reallocating funds to more effective programs and focusing on core local government functions — like public safety, infrastructure, and a well-funded court system — we can better serve the community. Budget management will also involve reducing administrative costs and returning services to pre-COVID levels, before the influx of federal funds.

To address the rising cost of living and housing, I will streamline the permitting process for new construction, reform restrictive zoning and building codes, and work to lower insurance costs. By reducing the expenses associated with permitting, zoning, and building regulations, we can lower construction costs and, in turn, reduce the costs passed on to homebuyers. Smarter zoning policies will also improve the economics and encourage mixed-use developments and low to middle-income housing projects. The current economic conditions have driven developers to focus on building luxury, high-income housing, but I aim to reverse this trend. To reduce insurance costs, we’ll need to reevaluate the county’s requirements and adjust them where possible. Many of the insurance requirements are from the state of Colorado, and as commissioner I would utilize my platform to advocate for more reasonable state insurance policies. Additionally, a risk-reduction initiative could help improve construction safety and lower insurance premiums.

Homelessness is a growing issue that requires both immediate and long-term solutions. I plan to collaborate closely with local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and mental health services to provide comprehensive support for the homeless population. This includes ensuring adequate shelter space for temporary housing while offering the necessary resources to address the root causes of homelessness. Services such as skills and job training, mental health care, and substance abuse treatment will be key to helping individuals rebuild their lives. Our goal should be to help people transition from temporary shelter into stable, permanent homes that they own, rather than relying on government-owned housing. We’ll also look to successful models from places like El Paso County in Colorado and San Diego, California to guide our efforts. By tackling these challenges holistically, we can not only improve the lives of those affected but also strengthen our community and manage our resources responsibly.

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

The county has a $316 million infrastructure backlog due to years of poor budget management; it is imperative we address this core responsibility of county and prioritize our budget to closing this gap.

One of my top priorities as county commissioner will be to address the $300 million infrastructure backlog that has accumulated over the years. Our roads, water systems, and public services are suffering due to years of deferred maintenance, and if we don’t act soon, these issues will become even more costly to fix. Infrastructure is the backbone of a healthy, functioning community, and neglecting it jeopardizes not only our daily lives but also the long-term economic growth of the county. Improving roads and public transportation systems will help alleviate traffic congestion, improve safety, and support the county’s growing population.

To fund this infrastructure overhaul, I will take a balanced approach to ensure taxpayer money is used efficiently. I support a temporary repeal of the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) to allocate funds specifically for these critical infrastructure projects. This temporary measure would last for 4-5 years or until the infrastructure gap is closed, whichever comes first. This is similar to the 2003 Referendum C the State of Colorado passed that offered a 5-year pause. I will ensure that this initiative is accompanied by clear accountability and a transparent timeline, so taxpayers know exactly how their money is being spent and when they can expect the measure to end. Additionally, we may propose a limited, single-purpose sales tax — similar to the one for Open Space — that would expire after 4-5 years, giving voters the option to extend it if necessary. This approach allows us to address the infrastructure needs without creating long-term financial burdens.

Our county should be recognized not only for maintaining its current infrastructure but for excelling in key areas that enhance quality of life. This includes providing superior internet access, reducing commute times, and increasing walkability, all while ensuring safe streets for pedestrians and cyclists. We must also aim for cleaner air, lower traffic noise, and high-quality, safe drinking water that can sustain us for generations. Additionally, we should prioritize clean streets and parks free of litter, and work to build a more resilient community prepared for natural disasters such as flooding, wildfires, and tornadoes. By achieving these goals, we can create a county that sets the standard for livability and economic vitality.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future?

In light of the compromise deal between the governor, lawmakers, and the two organizations – Advance Colorado and Colorado Concern – on property taxes, I plan to take a balanced approach that respects the rights of taxpayers while addressing the county’s budget needs. As County Commissioner, I will prioritize protecting the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR), ensuring that residents have a say in any future tax increases and that places restrictions on rapid increases in tax increases and government spending. TABOR has long been a safeguard for taxpayers, and I am committed to preserving that protection while finding ways to meet the county’s growing financial needs.

However, the reality is that Arapahoe County faces significant budget challenges, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and public safety. To balance these competing priorities, I will push for more efficient management of the county’s budget, including cutting administrative waste and conducting regular audits to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being used responsibly. By reallocating funds from inefficient programs, with lower performance and/or high admin to programmatic cost ratios, to critical needs like infrastructure, public safety, and affordable housing, we can make better use of the revenue we already have without overburdening residents with higher taxes.

If tax adjustments become necessary, I will ensure that any changes are carefully structured to minimize the impact on homeowners, particularly those already struggling with the high cost of living. Any proposal for additional revenue must be presented to voters for approval, with clear and specific details about how the funds will be used. This transparency will help build trust and ensure that the county spends taxpayer money responsibly. Ultimately, I believe that responsible fiscal management, paired with open communication and active community involvement, is essential for ensuring that taxes remain fair and the county’s budget stays sustainable. Much of the urgency surrounding the current budget stems from the Board of County Commissioners’ efforts to expand the scope of government and maintain the elevated spending levels made possible by federal COVID relief funds. Before accepting the notion that we need to raise taxes or remove TABOR restrictions, we must first evaluate whether these expansions are truly necessary.

District 3

The district includes portions of Centennial, Aurora and Bennett, Deer Trail and unincorporated eastern Arapahoe County. 

Jeff Baker – incumbent

Website: committeetoelectjeffbaker.org

Education: Bachelor’s in Government and Politics, University of Maryland; Master of Public Administration, University of Colorado Denver.

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them?

Arapahoe County has sustainable funding concerns which are the basis for a ballot measure on the November ballot. The Board of County Commissioners referred a revenue retention question that voters will have an opportunity to approve or reject in the upcoming election. The long-range financial stability of the county impact everything we do: roads and streets, human services, law enforcement, development and license plates. If the ballot measure is rejected we will need to cut services. If it passes we will have the option of retaining revenue that currently, under Colorado law, would need to be returned to the taxpayers. Other issues include funding for mental health, substance abuse treatment and affordable/attainable housing. I will continue to collaborate and work with all community partners, including the thirteen cities and towns in Arapahoe County, on a variety of solutions underway and being contemplated.

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

My priorities are primarily transportation related — improving the conditions of our roads and streets, bridges and interchanges. This vision led me to become more involved in the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG,) a fantastic organization of 58 member jurisdictions who dive into those issues and others. Think about a group of 58 elected officials in the Denver metro region all working on solving these issues! What a powerful and focused mission. As a federally designated “Metropolitan Planning Organization,” DRCOG receives federal funding for transportation projects, along with services for senior citizens (Area Agency on Aging.) DRCOG has also recently received an almost $200 million grant to be used to decarbonize and electrify homes of lower income and under-served residents. A second priority of mine is supporting our County Sheriff’s Office employees in their operations and advocating for increasing their salaries and benefits.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future?

Property taxes are a local issue. The state legislature got it right this time, maybe for the first time in a long time. Each local government and many special districts receive property taxes calculated at a different mill levy rate, some of which are restricted by state laws and some of which have had restrictions removed. Property value is assessed at different rates based on locations (e.g. west slope, mountains and eastern plains) and land uses such as residential, commercial, industrial or agricultural. How can the state legislature consider a single law or constitutional amendment that would accurately meet the needs of all local governments and the expectations of all residents? Our ballot measure will be the first effort that Arapahoe County has undertaken in decades to address long-term funding of county services to our growing population of residents.

Scott Brown

Website: scottbrown4Arapahoecounty.com

Education: Associates in Aviation Maintenance

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them?

The biggest issues are the income to the county and balancing the upcoming budget. If the ballot measure is passed by the citizens of the county, then we can address our public safety concerns, roads and facilities that need repaired and continue to fully fund the services the county provides today.

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

Public safety is the first priority. Funding will be from the general fund first, county savings, then any grant monies that can be applied for. It’s no secret that Arapahoe county is in financial trouble right now. They kicked the can down the road as far as they could, under TABOR. If we are unsuccessful in passing 1A, tough choices will need to be made in the level of services, the county can provide.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future?

It’s all the ingredients for a perfect storm at the county. We can only wait to see how that will affect our future income. If it’s substantial and 1A isn’t passed, then we are back to seeing where reductions in county services will be made.

District 5

The district includes northern portions of the city of Aurora and unincorporated Arapahoe County. 

Currently, Bill Holen represents the fifth district. He was appointed in January 2012, elected to his first term as commissioner in January 2013 and sworn into his third term in 2021.

Rhonda Fields

Website: fieldsforcommissioner.com

Education: Associates in Human Services, Pikes Peak Community College; Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, University of Northern Colorado; Master’s in Counseling, University of Northern Colorado

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them?

Cost of living and housing affordability. The escalating cost of living and lack of affordable housing are pressing issues in Arapahoe county. I am committed to implementing targeted strategies that address these challenges, including increasing the availability of affordable housing and supporting policies that stabilize rent and property prices. By collaborating with local developers and community organizations, I aim to ensure that every resident can access safe, affordable housing without sacrificing their quality of life.

Public safety. Ensuring the safety and security of our communities is paramount. I will advocate for enhanced public safety measures, including community programs that foster trust and collaboration between officers and residents. Additionally, I will work to address the root causes of crime through education and prevention initiatives, creating a safer environment for all.

Managing growth and expanding economic opportunities. As our county grows, we must manage this expansion thoughtfully to create sustainable economic opportunities. I will champion policies that support small businesses, providing the resources and infrastructure needed to thrive. By fostering a vibrant local economy, we can create well-paying jobs that enhance our residents’ quality of life. Additionally, I will advocate for environmentally sustainable practices to ensure that growth benefits both our community and our planet

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

My top priority is tackling the cost of living and the housing affordability crisis that affects so many residents, including renters, in our county. To address these issues, I will implement a multifaceted approach that increases the availability of affordable housing and stabilizes housing costs for both homeowners and renters through strategic partnerships with developers and community organizations.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future?

I propose implementing de-Brucing, a solution successfully adopted by many other localities in Colorado facing similar population growth challenges. De-Brucing requires voter support and would alleviate the local revenue cap imposed by TABOR, enabling the county to make strategic investments aligned with residents’ priorities. This approach would help stabilize property taxes and ensure that we can adequately fund essential services without imposing significant tax increases, allowing for a more balanced and sustainable county budget.

Eliseo Gonzalez

Website: gonzalez4acc.com

Education: Bachelor’s in philosophy and political science from Fort Hays State University

What are the biggest issues facing your county and do you intend to solve them? 

The biggest issue facing the county is the $147 Million dollar budget deficit the county is facing. My goal is to save the county and the taxpayers money so I will run a financial audit of all departments to ensure that taxpayer money is properly spent, Review and renegotiate contracts with vendors, review land leases. I will also explore unique funding opportunities and empower businesses to give back to the community.

If elected, what is your top priority and how will you fund it?

My top priority is safety. I will work in conjunction with Aurora PD as well as the Sheriffs office to ensure that public safety goals are met. I plan on promoting attracting more businesses to come into the county and will heavily rely on larger businesses to help with funding.

Following the compromise deal reached by the governor, lawmakers and two groups, how do you intend to deal with property taxes and county budgets in the future?

Protect TABOR, make sure law enforcement has the proper training, equipment, funding they need to protect our residents, ensure that additional programs meet demand requirements before launch and invest in new technologies that will help automate many mundane services.