I want to update you on critical community issues discussed at the recent planning meeting regarding the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) expansion along East Colfax Avenue. This project, supported by DRCOG in partnership with Aurora, Arapahoe and Adams counties, RTD, and CDOT, promises to enhance transit connectivity and align with our regional transportation goals. However, it also brings challenges that impact every aspect of our community and my state house district —from small business sustainability to housing, safety, and access to essential goods and services.

At the meeting, I listened closely and provided comments alongside many residents who courageously shared their concerns, pain, and hopes. Their voices made clear: our community deserves better protections and investments.

I am calling on residents, business owners, community leaders, and our local and state officials to unite with me in urging the Aurora City Council and the Boards of Commissioners for both Arapahoe and Adams counties to fully fund and implement the GLC’s comprehensive policy recommendations developed for Northwest Aurora. These recommendations include:

Supporting and stabilizing our small businesses with grants, safety improvements, and policies that protect tenant rights and prevent displacement.

Expanding access to affordable, fresh food, household necessities, safe public spaces, and reliable, safe public transit.

Improving housing conditions through stronger code enforcement, rental licensing, and home repair programs.

Investing in long-term housing affordability and preventing displacement with policies like “No Net Loss,” Community Land Trusts, and increased housing vouchers.

Enhancing community safety with better infrastructure, pedestrian protections, community programs, and alternatives to policing.

These issues affect all of us, especially our most vulnerable neighbors. The recent veto of crucial municipal legislation aimed at aligning local and state sentencing laws is a profound disappointment, undermining justice consistency and protections for residents. As your community leader and aspiring legislator, I pledge to govern with empathy, transparency, and a relentless commitment to equity—fighting for policies that protect families, empower businesses, and build safer, healthier neighborhoods.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Equity

As an educator and former school board member, I also want to address the important conversation around Colorado’s artificial intelligence (AI) anti-discrimination law. AI holds tremendous potential to improve education, hiring, healthcare, and more, but without strong safeguards, it risks perpetuating bias and inequity—especially against historically protected groups. The law’s provisions for transparency, risk mitigation, and the right to appeal AI-driven decisions are vital to ensuring technology serves all fairly.

While I understand concerns from businesses and educational institutions about compliance and costs, protecting our students and community members from discriminatory practices must remain a top priority. We need thoughtful policies that balance innovation with fairness and accountability, so AI empowers rather than excludes.

Municipal Courts and Public Safety

Regarding municipal courts and public safety, I share deep concerns about the recent veto of legislation aimed at aligning municipal sentencing laws with state standards. This veto hampers efforts to provide consistent, fair justice and undermines community trust. I support calls for increased transparency and accountability in municipal courts and urge our elected officials to prioritize reforms that protect residents’ rights and ensure equitable treatment under the law.

Rideshare Safety and Legislative Action

While I respect the importance of rideshare services, I am concerned about the veto of House Bill 1291, which sought to improve safety measures for drivers and passengers. The bill, championed by Rep. Jenny Willford and others, would have introduced necessary protections like background checks and ride recording options. Despite opposition from rideshare companies and the governor’s veto citing privacy and regulatory concerns, I stand with advocates pushing for stronger safety standards and will continue to support efforts to hold rideshare companies accountable.

Education Funding Breakthrough

On a brighter note, I want to highlight the significant bipartisan achievement in education funding this year. Governor Polis recently signed House Bill 1320 into law, introducing a new school funding formula that will direct an additional $500 million to Colorado schools over the next seven years. This formula prioritizes students with the greatest learning needs, including those from low-income families and English language learners.

I commend the leadership of House Speaker Julie McCluskie, Senate JBC Chair Sen. Jeff Bridges, Sen. Paul Lundeen, and many others for their tireless work to create a more equitable funding system. This new formula ensures that every child, regardless of background, receives the resources needed to succeed — a cause I have long championed as an educator and former school board member.

Honoring Our Veterans and Community Connections

I was honored to attend the Colorado Remembers memorial event at the Colorado Freedom Memorial, standing alongside fellow veterans and community members to honor the sacrifices of those who served, especially our World War II heroes.

I also want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to CCA President Dr. Brownlee for receiving special recognition in the presentation of the United States flag. His dedicated work supporting members of the armed forces exemplifies true commitment and service to our veterans and active-duty personnel. This well-deserved honor reflects his tireless efforts to uplift and advocate for those who have served our country.

In related news, Governor Polis unveiled the design for the Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway, an inspiring new public space that will connect the State Capitol to Lincoln Veterans Park. This project celebrates Colorado’s rich history and honors our veterans by enhancing accessibility and featuring artwork from local artists. The walkway’s design draws inspiration from Colorado’s diverse topography and flowing rivers, incorporating regional materials like sandstone, marble, and granite to pay tribute to our state’s geology. With viewing platforms, sculptural monuments, play elements, and educational storytelling opportunities, the walkway will offer an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

This initiative represents a meaningful public-private partnership led by the Governor’s Office, the P3 Office at the Colorado Department of Personnel & Administration, and History Colorado. It is a key part of ongoing efforts to revitalize Denver’s Civic Center area alongside other projects such as the Denver Central Library renovations and Denver Art Museum upgrades. Completion of the Colorado 150 Pedestrian Walkway is expected in the summer of 2026.

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Together, these developments demonstrate the power of community advocacy, thoughtful policy, and dedicated leadership committed to equity, safety, opportunity, and honoring those who serve. I remain steadfast in my commitment to represent your interests with empathy, transparency, and determination.

Please stay engaged and share your voice on these vital issues. Our future is strongest when we work united.

With gratitude and resolve,

Eric