Issues
WATER
Water is one of the most pressing issues facing Southwest Colorado and I will work to focus our efforts on building a better future for everyone. This includes investing in sustainable agricultural practices and community design. I will stand up for Southwest Colorado by pushing for the re-evaluation of trans-mountain diversion projects that pull water from the western slope to the front range. We need solutions that will prepare us for long term decreases in snowpack and water levels, not more water pipelines to support unsustainable development on the front range. I’ll also fight to make sure that the Lower Basin is doing their part to conserve Colorado River water.
HOUSING
High demand and limited housing inventory have led to soaring housing prices, pushing many hardworking individuals and families out of our communities. We need thoughtful planning to preserve the unique character of southwest Colorado while addressing the need for affordable housing for our workforce. Collaborative efforts between government, local businesses, and community organizations are needed to develop sustainable, affordable housing stock and ensure that families, teachers, and first responders can live in our community.
RURAL HEALTHCARE
In the sprawling landscapes and close-knit communities of Colorado, healthcare must be accessible and affordable for all families. Yet, our rural areas must navigate significant barriers, including transportation issues, long travel distances, limited facilities, and healthcare worker shortages in order to access essential medical care. I believe that everyone, regardless of their zip code, deserves reliable and accessible healthcare. I am committed to doing everything possible to make rural hospitals thrive, so that they can continue to serve our communities. Access to healthcare must include mental healthcare as well, so that everyone can live fulfilling lives, but rural Colorado also faces an acute shortage of mental health professionals. At the state house, I will advocate for expanding telehealth services and incentive programs for healthcare professionals to practice in rural areas.
PARTNERING WITH NATIVE NATIONS
HD59 includes the sovereign nations of the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribe. I am committed to building partnerships with these nations to create sustainable relationships that benefit Native communities in Southwest Colorado. I will work to uphold Colorado’s ongoing commitments to Native communities, as well as working with leaders and community members to improve access to healthcare, sustainable food systems, and their senior water rights to Lake Nighthorse. Protecting Native sovereignty is crucial – and includes everything from supporting economic development initiatives to ensuring that Native communities have the power and resources they need to educate their children in the way that is best for them.
PUBLIC EDUCATION
Fully funded public education is integral to Colorado’s future, but our education funding lags behind national averages. State budget limits have impacted our ability to invest in classroom resources, teacher hiring and retention, professional development, and facilities maintenance. As a member of the Durango school board, I have spent years navigating funding challenges and I am committed to working towards adequate and equitable funding for education at the state level. I believe these efforts must include collaborating with educators, legislators, and community members to craft effective solutions. As Colorado implements the new public education formula next year, I will work to ensure that funds are spent wisely for rural Colorado.
AGRICULTURE AND RANCHING
Agriculture and ranching are crucial parts of Colorado’s economy and way of life, contributing more than 170,000 jobs and billions to the economy every year. However, drought, wildfires, and wolves have put incredible pressure on small and medium farms and ranches across HD59 and the state. Farmers and ranchers are the stewards of the land and I am committed to working with them to find the best path forwards towards a sustainable, profitable future.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Rural Colorado needs serious investment in infrastructure to improve our internet access, transportation, water systems, and more. I will fight to continue expanding broadband access Southwest Colorado, so that everyone can have reliable internet, all the way to the last mile. Infrastructure projects are long term investments in this community, which is why I am committed to pushing for sustainable development that will prepare us for a rapidly changing future.
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE
Access to reproductive healthcare is a fundamental right and Colorado has become a leader in providing care in the mountain west. However, just as rural Colorado has limited access to other healthcare services, many residents struggle to access comprehensive reproductive and maternal health services. Expanding the availability of full reproductive and maternal healthcare needs to be an integral part of our efforts to expand healthcare access more broadly in rural Colorado and I am committed to working to ensure that everyone is able to receive the care that is best for them.
THE JUST TRANSITION
As Colorado transitions to a more renewable future, I believe it is elected officials’ responsibility to build strong, comprehensive transition plans, and I will work to make sure that no one is left behind. Oil and gas are still core parts of the rural economy in Southwest Colorado, and the transition to renewables will take time and serious investment. I have two priorities for our current stage. First, I will collaborate with community and workforce stakeholders to spread information about existing opportunities for grants, training resources and community support, which are available across Colorado as coal mines and plants close. Second, I will work to support Colorado’s efforts to secure and expand state, federal and private funding to create opportunities in communities impacted by the changing energy sector.