This week, as the George Floyd trial begins, we as a community must evaluate our commitment to racial justice and how we have responded to the events of last year. With the passage of the Senate bill 217 last year, we (Colorado) definitely responded strongly to the criminal justice and policing concerns of the people.

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.

I want to take a moment to update you on some significant changes happening here in Colorado regarding gun safety and community well-being. This year, our state legislature passed a dozen new laws aimed at strengthening gun regulations — all signed into law by Governor Jared Polis.