Vil election 2013 p

N O I T C E EL E D I U G

Your guide to the upcoming Nov. 5 elections

for Centennial, Englewood and Littleton municipal elections; Cherry Creek and Littleton Public Schools school board elections; and local and statewide ballot issues.

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE PAGE 2 • THE VILLAGER • October 17, 2013

Re-Elect Cathy Noon

A City that protects our property values A City we can be proud to call home A City that is accountable and financially responsible

Proven Leadd, Respected, Accessible

How to vote in Arapahoe County Vote by mail, drop off at multiple locations, or in person at 4 polling centers

By Peter Jones Election Day is almost here – again.

Colorado residents, including voters in Arapahoe County, will elect their city council and school board representatives and vote on a number of statewide and local issues in a largely mail-in election to be held Nov. 5.

Mail-in ballots were to be sent to active voters on Oct. 15, according to Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder Matt Crane. Beginning this week, voters also have the option of dropping off ballots at 19 locations throughout the county or casting a vote in person at one of four newly renamed Voter Service and Polling Centers, including at locations in Centennial and Littleton.

“I call them Vote Centers on steroids because we do all the things we did at normal Vote Centers, but we’ve now added the ability of people to register to vote in these locations as well,” Crane said.

Voters will also be able to update their registrations and request new mail-in, replacement or provisional ballots at the four all-purpose polling centers, including three in the metro area. [The number of locations for what the county calls VSPCs will increase dramatically during next year’s midterm election, Crane added.]

Under a new state law, such centers must be open at least eight days prior to an election, but Crane said Arapahoe County is striving to do even better.

“We’re opening 22 days before the election to try to provide greater access and convenience to our voters,” the clerk said.

Under the same law, voters will be able register as late as Election

Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder Matt Crane, right, explains procedures for this year’s election to government officials, party leaders and reporters as Chief Deputy Clerk and Recorder Mary Whitley listens. Mail-in Election Day is Nov. 5.

Photo by Peter Jones

Day at the four centers, which include the Centennial motor-vehicle office and the county’s main administration building in Littleton.

Residents will have until Oct. 28 to register to vote on the county’s election website at www.arapahoe votes.com. Mail-in voters can also check the status of their ballots and

Voter Service and Polling Centers

Residents of the metropolitan areas of Arapahoe County can vote, register to vote and drop off ballots at the following locations: • Motor Vehicle Branch Office 6954 S. Lima St. in Centennial • Arapahoe County Administration 5334 S. Prince St. in Littleton • Motor Vehicle Branch Office 490 S. Chambers Road in Aurora

Drop-off locations

• City of Centennial 13133 E. Arapahoe Road • Goodson Recreation Center 6315 S. University Blvd. in Centennial • Smoky Hill Library

CENTENNIAL CITY COUNCIL Mayor

Cathy Noon Incumbent Mayor Cathy Noon is seeking a second term as the 12-yearold city’s top elected leader. She was elected in 2009 after serving as the chair of the Centennial Charter Commission, which drafted the city charter, and as chair of the Centennial Council of Neighborhoods. Since being elected, Noon has served on the Denver Regional Council of Governments Board of Directors, the Metro Mayors Caucus, the DRCOG Area Agency on Aging Board and as vice chair of the C-470 Coalition. During her first term, Noon led efforts to create the Centennial Senior Commission and was a strong advocate for construction of the award-winning Center Park, an attraction that has helped foster an

identity for an arguably “invisible” city founded from unincorporated Arapahoe County in 2001. “In the last few years that’s really changed,” Noon said. “Some of it is because the city is getting recognized for a lot of our innovations. It also has a lot to do with [Olympic gold medalist] Missy Franklin. … We can’t take credit for her swimming capabilities, but we can take credit for a community that a family like hers wanted to live in.”

get an array of other election information on the site.

“We want to make sure we’re completely transparent and open,” Crane said.

In this special section of this week’s Villager, we are profiling many of the candidates and ballot issues for this year’s local elections in Arapahoe County.

5430 S. Biscay Circle • City of Cherry Hills Village 2450 E. Quincy Ave. • City of Greenwood Village 6060 S. Quebec St. • City of Littleton 2255 W. Berry Ave. • City of Englewood 1000 Englewood Parkway • City of Glendale 950 S. Birch St. • City of Sheridan 4101 S. Federal Blvd.

• City of Aurora 15151 E. Alameda Parkway • Altura Plaza 15400 E. 14th Place in Aurora For location and hours, call 303-795-4511 or visit www.araphoevotes.com.

our city into another Aurora? This is about the community, integrity, fairness, honesty and responsiveness with government and elected officials.” The first-time candidate has served on the Chapparal Homeowners Association Board of Directors as the secretary and as a member of the organization’s financial committee.

Bromley, who has resided in Centennial – on both ends of the city – since its inception in 2001, has cast herself as the unbridled outsider. “This isn’t about Monika,” her campaign announcement said. “She doesn’t have political or career aspirations. This is about the community. This is about integrity, fairness, honesty and responsiveness within government and elected officials. This campaign is to stand against pursuit of personal or vested interests or power grabs.”

District 1 District 1 Monika Bromley Political outsider and yoga instructor Monika Bromley is leading a pointed challenge against the incumbent. “Centennial is at a crossroads,” she writes on her campaign website.

“Do we choose a leader who will continue to follow the vision of the city when it was founded or do we reelect someone who is trying to turn

Kathy Turley Long-time

resident

Kathy

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE

Turley was an elected member of the Centennial Charter Commission, for which she co-authored a city charter she later opposed. An advocate for seniors, the City Council appointed Turley last year to serve on the Senior Commission. Gov. Bill Owens also appointed her to the Colorado Commission on Aging, for which she served as the governor’s delegate to the White House Conference on Aging. Turley is a past member of the Denver Regional Council of Governments’ Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board, where she received the Distinguished Award of Service.

She is currently part of the Arapahoe County Council on Aging speakers bureau and serves on the InnovAge Advisory Council. “Every seven seconds, someone is turning 60,” Turley said. “Ten thousand people a day are turning 65. Thirty percent of the population of Centennial is over 50. Whether you are a senior, caring for a senior or thinking about the upcoming golden years, you will need a voice at the table. I will be your voice.” Turley recently retired as a sales executive for Kaiser Permanente’s Medicare Sales and Marketing Department. She is the recipient of the Summit Award, Kaiser Permanente’s most prestigious recognition.

October 17, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 3

study the issues, show up prepared and take a critical and nonpartisan approach to decisions impacting our residents and businesses.” he said.

Hanbery’s professional background – managing people, programs and budgets in corporations and agencies – spans more than 20 years.

His community-building and volunteer activities include serving on the South Metro Denver Chamber’s Business Leaders for Responsible Government and the Board of Advisors for the Chamber’s Centennial Business Coalition. Hanbery’s platform emphasizes the city’s Question 2G, which if passed by Centennial’s voters in November would make further use of the fiber optic cable beneath the city’s streets. “If 2G passes at the ballot, as I expect it to, the city will need a business plan,” the candidate said, emphasizing his executive master’s of business administration degree from the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver.

Hanbery says his experience in developing business plans in telecommunications comes from designing and negotiating content delivery systems for video production studios and a digital signage business.

business. “Running for City Council is the next step for me to effect change in my part of the world,” she said. “Centennial is a wonderful place to live and I want to make sure that her streets are sound, her businesses thrive, her schools flourish, and she operates from a balanced budget like any of the citizens within her borders must do to provide a strong and stable foundation for their families’ futures.”

Martens holds a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and a minor in Psychology. She graduated with honors and spent 10 years doing home daycare and tutoring, five years teaching preschool, two years in general education at the elementary level and 10 years in special education at the elementary and middle school levels. “It is my goal to bring civility, integrity and respect to the table and work tirelessly to achieve fair and ethical practices for everyone without having to compromise on principles,” Martens said. “

District 2

Doris Truhlar Doris Truhlar, an attorney specializing in family law, has lived in present-day Centennial since 1983, with her home and law firm both located in District 2. A graduate of the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, Truhlar has served as president of the Arapahoe County Bar Association and the Colorado Women’s Bar Association and has received a number of awards for C

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Mike Hanbery Businessman and first-time candidate Mike Hanbery says he would represent District 1 with a strong spirit of efficiency, accountability and cooperation. “The city deserves council representatives who will

Theresa Martens In 2010, Theresa Martens became a state chair for a national political-action group and a board member of a proposed charter school in Englewood. She is now in the process of starting her own

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MONIKA FOR MAYOR City of Centennial 2013

HanberyForCentennial

Honesty & integrity Voice of the people

Theresa Martens for Centennial City Council

If elected I will:

• Strive to eliminate unnecessary ordinances/regulations • Watch our spending – Not match our budget • Work to have the West/East side become ONE City • Put the community’s best interests above personal interests or the interests of others.

• Strive to have City Council work together to provide the city with the kind of guidance and leadership that will be needed over the next four years; and • Not pretend I know everything, I will not be arrogant. I will bring honesty, integrity and accessibility to the office of the Mayor AND together we can make a better city government, that listens and cares about you – not themselves and make it a city government we are proud of.

DISTRICT 1

Monika Bromley

Let’s get this City back to what is was intended to be

Monika.bromley2013@gmail.com • MonikaforMayor.com

I am an event planner, a Charter School Board Member, a Special Education Teacher.

As a City Council Member I will bring creative, rational solutions to the table and work tirelessly to represent the citizens of Centennial.

I will work with the other council members to grow our city as a family oriented suburban landscape that is advanced and in pace with the global economy, while protecting your tax dollars.

I will endeavor to bring my experience with technology to play to help guide our city into the gigabyte, or even the terabyte realm of business and industry.

I will always work to keep our city government small and state-of-the-art to perpetuate our efficiency and national status as a leader in innovation.

It is my desire to work with our businesses and nonprofits to assist our aging, low-income, and disabled communities, especially in hard times, to ensure their quality of life.

I would appreciate your vote.

Theresa Martens

martens4centennial.com

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE PAGE 4 • THE VILLAGER • October 17, 2013 Continued from Page 3 her leadership. Her campaign has been endorsed by Colorado Attorney General John Suthers. Truhlar is the founder of a free clinic for low-income domestic-relations parties in Arapahoe County. She is also a member of the 18th Judicial District Nominating Commission, for which the members are chosen by the governor, the attorney general and the chief justice of the Colorado Supreme Court. “Issues important to Centennial will include regulation of recreational marijuana, whether the amphitheater at Center Park should be covered, and whether the business personal property tax should be modified to give small businesses a break and to attract more of them to the city,” she said. The candidate says her background is well suited to serving on City Council, as an attorney and a former newspaper reporter who covered local government.

Street, and supporting the Aging in Place initiative for seniors. As a vice president at Dish Network, Gotto says he ensured his departments performed and hit budget.

“I have been a decision maker on bringing thousands of new jobs to several markets across the U.S.,” he said. “…Even on topics where I was not the expert, I would hear both sides then make a decision that would move the department forward. There is no doubt my people skills combined with my success running large budgets will be a huge benefit for the city of Centennial.”

District 4

District 3

Mark Gotto Mark Gotto is running unopposed in District 3 after serving as a Homestead Farm II community representative to the Centennial Council of Neighborhoods.

“As a councilmember, I will work diligently to maintain our neighborhoods, property values, parks, schools and public safety that we all enjoy,” he said. “I am passionate about economic growth and the success of our city.” In 2011, Gotto was appointed to the Centennial Open Space and Parks Advisory Board, which makes recommendations for use of the Arapahoe County Open Space funds. His priorities would include improving the maintenance of neighborhood roads, widening Arapahoe Road from Waco Street to Himalaya

C.J. Whelan C.J. Whelan, a 2007 candidate for Centennial treasurer, is a 34year resident who touts his mix of business and government experience. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduate is a selfdescribed “serial entrepreneur” and co-founder of a teleconferencing services company. Meanwhile, he has served on several city committees and is the former president and treasurer of his homeowners association. He was also elected as the president of the Cunningham Fire Protection District Board. “I have a passion for local government. It is the level of government that we interface with every day but often think the least about,” he said.

“From our roads, parks and law enforcement to fire protection, snow plowing and schools, these are the public entities that really touch our lives every day.” Whelan says he is committed to efficient government and promises to promote public safety. He says he will also work to keep the council invested in maintaining Centennial’s infrastructure and fighting for maximum value in city services.

Keep Beckman on the job!

Leadership for Littleton’s Future.

Accountability Living Within our Means Healthy Economic Growth Quality of Life

“During my firstKeep two BECKMAN years of service, I on job! have acquired a deeperthe understanding of how vitally important it is that the interests of neighborhoods and people like yourself who are vested in this community are represented. Littleton deserves an effective, fiscally responsible, and accountable local government”.

Jack Tate Jack Tate spent his career managing significant capital projects related to improving infrastructure.

Besides having an executive leadership role, Tate has maintained a hands-on role that has seen him writing and negotiating contracts for cities, such as Centennial. “When working in a technical field, you get pretty used to not having all of the answers,” he said. “A core management skill of mine is the ability to bring together a team, whether of tradesmen or stakeholders, to identify possible solutions to a problem and choose the best path forward. …

I can connect with folks of all levels and interests, from the CFO to the boiler mechanic, from the civil en-

District 2

Linda Olson Incumbent first-term Englewood City Councilwoman Linda Olson is seeking re-election to represent District 2. “It has been an honor to represent District 2 in the City of Englewood these past four years,” she said. “With several key developments in process and several more on the horizon, the time is right for stability and a sustained vision that represents this geographically small but diverse set of residents and businesses.” Olson said she is pleased to devote another four years to keep lines of communication open throughout the many ongoing developments in the city and to “make clear-headed decisions in a sea of many competing values.” Olson is executive director of Learning Communities and Civic Engagement at the University of Denver, where she received her Ph.D., and is the faculty director of the university’s Pioneer Leadership Program.

She has also served on the Keep Englewood Beautiful Commission.

BECKMAN www.BeckmanForCouncil.com

Paid for by Beckman for Council

It’s About the Neighborhood!

William Turner Candidate did not submit information.

Question 2G

Centennial voters are being asked whether the city should be allowed to “indirectly provide high-speed Internet (advanced services), telecommunications service and/or cable television services … through competitive and nonexclusive partnerships with private businesses.” The city is essentially asking residents if Centennial should explore other uses for the 48 miles

ENGLEWOOD CITY COUNCIL

A ✔ BRUCE t-Large

CITY COUNCIL

gineer to the artist, as a result of my background.” Tate says he has met with citizens by going door to door, engaging homeowners associations and attending city events. “Citizens are looking for someone with my background, experience and skills to roll up my sleeves and tackle an issue in depth, acting on their behalf and best interest. However, there is also the expectation that I act according to their general will and beliefs,” Tate said. “As a councilmember I will work diligently to maintain our city’s successes, like a low-crime rate and high levels of customer satisfaction.”

Rita Russell Longtime resident Rita Russell,

who grew up in Englewood, is a retired small-business owner who says she has the proven experience to make tough judgments. “I am not a politician, but I decided to get involved because I believe our City Council has been making decisions that are eroding our basic rights and destroying the city’s economic welfare,” she said. In the wake of a recent controversial decision to sell the historic Englewood Depot in spite of protests from some residents, Russell says the city needs to pay attention to citizen initiatives and protect the rights of residents.

The candidate says she would also pursue responsible growth and focus on economic development, stressing that the city does not need to raise taxes, but should control spending instead. “Englewood can become strong economically again and return to that great place for families to raise their children,” Russell said.

of publicly owned fiber optic lines that are currently used for trafficsignal operations and connecting public facilities. Centennial would be the first larger Colorado city to take such a step, following the lead of Glenwood Springs, Fort Morgan and Leadville, among other smaller municipalities. Most City Council members think it is most likely that the city would forge partnerships with Internet and television service providers, thus offering financial benefits to the city while increasing competition and potentially providing faster and higher-capacity services to Centennial’s residents and businesses. City Council had to put the decision up to residents because of a 2005 state law that prohibits municipalities from directly or indirectly providing telecommunications services, unless voters decide otherwise. The law was intended to prevent municipal competition with the private sector.

If voters were to OK the expansion, Centennial would be empowered to sell, lease or otherwise provide commercial or public access to its fiber optic system on a nonexclusive basis.

end a perceived “good ol’ boy” network in Englewood and ensure that opportunities to serve do not depend on who one knows, but instead on one’s willingness to serve. Gillit, a perceived outsider when he was first elected, says he looks forward to continuing to serve with energy and passion.

“There needs to be a change in how the city government responds to their needs of its residents and I believe that it starts with its leadership,” Gillit said. “I’m a strong proponent for transparency and openness in government.”

At Large

District 4

Rick Gillit Incumbent District 4 Englewood City Councilman Rick Gillit is running unopposed. Gillit says he brings to the job broad experience as a business owner, an Air Force veteran and a community leader. He was elected to City Council in 2009 when he challenged an incumbent and won by a margin of 56 to 44 percent. In addition to years in the airline industry, Gillit spent more than 10 years in the manufacturing sector. Since 2001, he has owned his own real estate and financial services company. Gillit says he has worked to

Steven Yates A Colorado native, Steven Yates has lived in Englewood for the past 25 years and is raising his two teenage sons with his wife of 18 years in the city. Yates is also a business owner who has started and run multiple businesses. For the last six years, he has been active in such city issues as property rights, personal rights and community development. The candidate says he is making a bid for council in large part due to what he considered the city’s illegal sale of the historic Englewood Depot when a vote of the people was required according to the city charter, the candidate asserts. “That’s what motivated me to get in here and run for office,” he said at a recent candidate forum. “… In essence what [the City Council] did was steal your vote.” Yates says he will fight to balance the budget, protect citizen rights, follow the city charter, keep taxes low and ensure government transparency.

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE

October 17, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 5

LITTLETON Scott Gorsky Scott Gorsky is outgoing president of the Englewood Schools Board of Education. He did not submit information.

Municipal Judge Vincent Atencio Incumbent Judge Vincent Atencio did not submit information.

Question 2B

A nonbinding advisory question referred by the City Council will ask voters if they think Englewood should ban the retail sale of recreational marijuana, as well as testing and cultivation facilities, while not restricting the personal use and growth authorized by the Colorado Constitution, or the city’s existing medical-marijuana businesses, caregivers and patients. The City Council may use the results of this ballot question when creating marijuana policy in Englewood, but would not be legally obligated to do so. The city currently bans recreationalmarijuana businesses.

Question 300

This citizens initiative would amend Englewood’s municipal code to officially designate as parks all properties identified on the 2006 Englewood Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Those would include, but would not be limited to the properties called Baker, Barde, Bates-Logan, Belleview, Centennial, Clarkson, Cushing, Depot, Duncan, Emerson, Hosanna, Jason, Miller Fields, Romans and Rotolo. Passage would mean the city would need citizen approval before selling any such properties because the city charter requires voter approval to sell parkland. This initiative was the result of the city’s recent controversial sale of the historic Englewood Depot, which some city documents referred to as a park property, though city officials said it had never been formally designated that way.

us by previous generations,” he said. It is a message that he says holds meaning today in light of the significant number of recent rezoning applications and other proposed land-use modifications pending before City Council. “I understand the development side, and as a longtime and committed Littleton resident, I’d like to give back to the community by helping to forge positive alliances and to lessen the disharmony that I believe has grown considerably in our small town,” the candidate said.

District 3

James Dean Candidate did not submit information.

Question 2C

Phil Cernanec Incumbent Councilman Phil Cernanec, who is running unopposed, did not submit candidate information. Cernanec previously served as an elected member of South Suburban Parks and Recreation’s Board of Directors. According to the City of Littleton’s website, Cernanec has had a long career in the financial-services industry, serving as a product actuary for several insurance carriers and as a consultant to international firms. He has also been an adjunct professor and certified leadership facilitator. He is an alternate to the board of directors of the Denver Regional Council of Governments.

At large

District 1

Randy Stein Randy Stein, who is running unopposed, touts his experience with local government agencies and his extensive resume in litigation management. In 1990, Stein founded a real estate development company focused on the reinvigoration of underutilized assets. In 1994, he renovated eight historic buildings into a mixed-use project in Historic Downtown Littleton. “My goal at the time was to create sustainable value for the future while honoring the broad and deep history bequeathed to

man said. The candidate has also been a strong voice for balanced growth. “We cannot take development concepts and urban growth patterns from cities back on the eastern coast and automatically think that they are going to be a good fit in Littleton. One size does not fit all,” he said. Beckman says he has spent his first term working to protect, preserve and enhance the treasured High Line Canal through the Highline Canal Working Group and creating additional outreach to the community.

for funding the capital improvements.” Watson says that based on his recommendations, the City of Littleton hired an outside consulting firm to conduct a study on impact fees the city should levy on all current and future developments. Watson believes that if elected he could further protect citizens’ interests by advocating for smart economic growth. “No other candidate has my experience working with developers or my vision for Littleton’s future,” he said. “Our city is poised to be the state’s showcase in high-speed fiber optics for homes, attracting technology-based businesses and their families.” Watson’s strategy for Littleton includes “smart economic growth.” He would plan to work closely with technologybased businesses and service providers to upgrade our city to an all-fiber community.

Bruce Beckman During his first term, At-Large Councilman Bruce Beckman, a retired Littleton police officer, says he focused on community safety, fiscal responsibility, accountability to the taxpayer, protection of neighborhood property values and creating a healthy business environment. He was the leading force behind the city having a structurally balanced budget for the first time in recent memory. “The ongoing practice of dipping into city reserves to pay for our ongoing operational cost is a train wreck waiting to happen. It pushes back leadership decisions that need to be made and can be a devastating practice for businesses and governments,” Beck-

Bruce Stahlman At-Large Councilman Bruce Stahlman, Littleton’s mayor pro tem and an 18-year city resident, emphasizes his background in finance and management. His priorities include saving tax dollars and encouraging job growth.

“Littleton’s quality of life doesn’t happen by accident,” he said. “It takes vision and dedication. The City Council’s job is to represent the citizens to the best of our collective ability.” Noteworthy financial achievements cited by Stahlman include increasing the Littleton’s General Fund balance by 22 percent, despite the “Great Recession,” refinancing existing debt to save $1.6 million, successfully renegotiating the Denver Water contract, which added $2.1 million to the General Fund, and saving Littleton ratepayers $3.6 million at the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

“Of all the issues Council deals with, saving tax dollars while assuring quality of life and essential city services is always foremost in my mind. I take the citizens’ trust very seriously,” Stahlman said.

The candidate has spent 32 years in international corporate finance and serves as chief financial officer of Arc Thrift Stores.

John Watson First-time candidate John Watson says, “I’ve spent over 30 years developing commercial properties throughout the state of Colorado. As a recent retiree, I have watched our City Council struggle with the lack of requirements made on new construction and real estate developments. I do not believe that the citizens of Littleton should have to shoulder this financial burden. The developers should be responsible

If passed, Question 2C, referred to the ballot by the City Council, would change the timing of when the city regularly redraws Littleton’s four districts to after the U.S. Census every 10 years, much as the redistricting of U.S. congressional seats is in the line with the results of the U.S. Census. Currently, redistricting takes place every four years. The change to the city charter would keep in place a requirement that the districts be contiguous, compact and “as rectangular as possible.” Any changes to the district boundaries would be made by the city’s Election Commission and would have to be in place at least three months prior to an election.

Question 2D

In a second City Councilreferred question, Littleton voters are being asked to impose a 3 percent tax on all hotel and motel lodging of less than 30 days, generating an estimated $90,000 in annual revenue. The state of Colorado and Arapahoe County both collect their own lodging taxes, which average approximately 2.45 percent in the Colorado counties and municipalities that

impose them. The city of Littleton has one hotel and two motels.

Question 2E

The final City Council-referred ballot issue would create a 3 percent tax on the purchase of recreational marijuana products in addition to state taxes. The City of Littleton does not currently allow recreational-marijuana businesses, however. The city estimates it would raise an estimated $120,000 through the tax if Littleton’s four medical-marijuana establishments were to eventually convert to recreational sales. An affirmative vote would not legalize recreationalmarijuana sales.

Question 301

In a citizen-initiated question, city voters will decide whether the City Council’s ability to hold private executive sessions should be drastically curtailed. If the initiative passes, the council’s executive sessions would be limited to two areas – matters for which federal or state law requires confidentiality, and for attorney-client discussion of legal actions already filed in a court of law. Any final legal settlements would be decided by council vote in a public meeting. The council can currently hold nonpublic meetings for a limited number of other subjects, including real estate purchases, security arrangements, contract negotiations, personnel matters and legal advice.

Question 302

If passed, a second citizen-initiated question would require the seven-member City Council to pass zoning changes with the approval of at least five members under certain conditions. Such a supermajority would be required if a protest were filed with the municipal court at least 24 hours before the vote and included the signatures of the owners of 20 percent or more of the land that would be subject to the change, extending to a radius of 100 feet.

The five-member vote would also be mandated if Littleton’s Planning Board did not recommend a favorable vote.

Continued from Page 6

Vote Robert Reichardt for School Board in Littleton Public Schools Dad: 2 elementary age children in LPS Schools.

Data Geek: PhD in Policy Analysis. I have 15 years of experience helping schools, districts, and states improve.

Dedicated to Excellence: Our schools are good, they can be excellent. I will bring: • High expectations • Accountability for results • Collaboration Web: www.RoberRforEducation.com E-mail: Robert@RobertRforEducation.com www.facebook.com/RobertRforEducation

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE PAGE 6 • THE VILLAGER • October 17, 2013

CHERRY CREEK SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION Continued from page 5

District D

NOV. 5

Randy Perlis Incumbent Randy Perlis has served on the Cherry Creek Board

of Education since 2007 and has been a resident in the Cherry Creek School District since 1983. Perlis says he has been actively involved in addressing district budget cuts.

“All Cherry Creek Schools continue to rank in the two highest levels of accreditation by the Colorado Department of Education,” he said.

The candidate says he wants to provide students with the tools to get into college and “the skills to compete in a worldwide economy.” During his tenure, Perlis has served on various special district committees, including the Long-Range Facility Planning Committee, the Special Education Advisory Board and the District Accountability Committee.

Perlis jokingly refers to himself as a “triple crowner,” having children in Cherry Creek’s elementary, middle and high schools. His wife of 18 years also works with the district.

Currently, Perlis is working on his doctorate in chemistry education at the University of Northern Colorado. He also instructs first-responders about hazardous materials and teaches chemistry classes throughout the country.

Brian Arnold “I believe that education is in a unique place in its evolution,” said candidate Brian Arnold, a 1983 graduate of Cherry Creek High School. “Students are no longer competing on the local stage, but are part of a global society. Innovation and technology are the key to educate our youth in the future.”

Arnold has been part of the educational system for more than 20 years and is currently a long-term substitute teacher and coach at Cherokee Trail High School. He has taught at

all levels from kindergarten through 12th grade. “[I have] been a professor teaching teachers their craft and have also been a college administrator [who] has made eliminating the equity gap one of his biggest priorities,” he said. Additionally, Arnold has been a world-class athlete. He owned a financial-services business before moving back to Colorado in 2010. “I am a husband, father and educator. My wife Renee and I have eight amazing children. Two of them are enjoying their senior and junior years at Cherokee Trail High School,” Arnold said.

District E

Karen Fisher Karen Fisher is running unopposed to fill a vacant position.

“I have been an active member of elementary, middle and high school accountability committees, and very involved with PTCOs, booster clubs, and special events in my children’s schools,” she said.

Fisher completed the Leadership Cherry Creek program in 2008 and has been involved for more than 18 years as a volunteer and parent leader in the district. Fisher also served on the committee to pass the district’s bond election last fall.

She and her husband have lived in the district for 23 years and three of their six children have graduated from CCSD schools. Currently, Fisher has a senior at CCHS and has twins attending Campus Middle School. Fisher has a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s in business administration in finance and marketing.

Vote Kelly Perez

LPS School Board 2013 • 19 years investment of personal A Champion time as volunteer of LPS. • Parent of 5 children: 3 attended LPS system and 2 are still in it.

• District accountability committee, PTO president, PPC Board, LPS Foundation & Mill Levy. District Financial Committee, ETCA, Educational Technology Advisory Committee, Wellness Committee.

• Support enhancing LPS excellence in education by strengthening early childhood literacy programs • A good steward of LPS today and into the future.

• Protecting the financial stability of LPS • Believes that STEM initiatives will help students excel at reading,

for Excellence

writing, and comprehension • A passion for Education and the Vision for LPS to be among the best in the country

303-229-5835 www.kellyperezlps.com kellyperezlpsschoolboard@gmail.com Paid for the Citizens for Kelly Perez for School Board

LITTLETON PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION At large

Dallas Jones “I’m running for the school board to ensure LPS doesn’t simply exist, but that it continues to thrive,” said candidate Dallas Jones. “I have an arm’s length connection with the district, enabling me to offer an independent viewpoint.” Jones’s priorities are to maintain a safe and rewarding learning environment while retaining enrollment levels and attracting new students to schools with excess capacity. Jones believes that students and their families need to take responsibility for their own education and he wants to seek additional opportunities to combine instructional resources with applied technology. “This is my home,” said the 17-year Littleton resident. “My children grew up and graduated from and thrived in LPS. I bring skills and perspectives that are different, yet complementary, to the existing LPS team.” Jones has a background in information technology and industrial management and is a former small-business owner.

Kelly Perez Kelly Perez says she has invested nearly 20 years to the continued success of Littleton Public Schools with duties that have ranged from PTO president to chair of the District Accountability Committee. “I have a panoramic view of LPS,” she said. Perez is a mother of five children and has been married for 25 years. Her three older children graduated from LPS. She has a sophomore at Arapahoe High School and a sixth-grader at Powell Middle School. “I have a passion for education, especially in the area of literacy, as I believe it is the fundamental building block of student’s success,” Perez said. The candidate has two bachelor’s degrees. Her past experience includes social work and event planning Currently, Perez works as an educational consultant. “I have the vision to maintain LPS as a place where students get a world-class educational experience. My vision also extends to keep LPS financially secure,” she said.

Robert Reichardt “Littleton has always been a special place for me,” said candidate Robert Reichardt. “I read Ralph Moody’s books, particularly Man of the Family. This book guided me to what I was supposed to do as the eldest son in the family, being raised by a single mom, struggling to make ends meet in rural Colorado. It helped me find my place in the world.” Reichardt describes himself as a “data geek” and a dad dedicated to excellence.

His goals for the district are to provide an analytical and policydriven approach. He has a Ph.D. in policy analysis and works as a consultant. He has taught at Colorado State University. Reinhardt said that he would not plan a big change agenda. “Littleton was a magical place for me then. It is a magical place for me now,” he said. “I have two girls attending an LPS elementary school. I want to make sure this is a great place for families to raise their children here now and into the future.”

Jack Reutzel “I want to be part of a district that is devoted to the success of kids,” said candidate Jack Reutzel.

“As a district resident for over 23 years and a parent for 20 years, I have seen the results of great teachers and the lasting effect they have.

I have seen engaged parents, coaches and teachers provide great options for afterschool activities.” Reutzel says he would bring a diverse skillset to the board, having served within LPS for 10 years and having been involved on accountability and principal-search committees. “I understand the district and its place in the larger community,” he said.

“These skills are directly transferrable to the school board. I am a good listener and consensus builder. I ask many questions and will be well versed in the subject before I make any decision.” Reutzel’s children include a graduate of Littleton High School who attends college and a current Heritage High student.

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE

Carrie Warren-Gully “We all know that Littleton Public Schools is one of the great-

est school districts around,” said candidate Carrie Warren-Gully.

The lifelong resident of Arapahoe County has been actively involved in LPS for 12 years. She says there are many budgetary issues that will require the board’s focus, including financial constraints and unfunded mandates. “I would work to make sure we continue to be smart with our money, looking for more efficiencies and fostering community partnerships to make every dollar count,” Warren-Gully said.

“Furthermore, I would work with our legislators to make sure they understand the true economic im-

STATEWIDE BALLOT ISSUES This measure would impose a statewide sales tax of 10 percent and an excise tax of 15 percent on all sales of retail marijuana products effective Jan. 1, 2014. The General Assembly could raise or lower the tax rates, but they could never go higher than 15 percent.

The first $40 million received annually from the excise tax would go to the Public School Capital Construction Fund and 15 percent of the sales tax would be apportioned to the city, town or county where the purchase was made.

The medical-marijuana industry would not be affected. Amendment 64, the 2012 voter-approved

By Tom Barry In an extraordinary set of circumstances, the Englewood Public School District, after filling three available seats on the board, cancelled the November election on Sept. 3.

Former two-term board mem-

ber Gene Turnbull had waited four years and was then eligible to fill one of the three vacancies, as only three people filed the required paperwork. On Sept. 5, Turnbull suddenly died.

The two remaining board members Duane Tucker (elected in

Proposition AA

October 17, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 7

pacts of their decisions on our children. Through my volunteer service over the past 12 years, I have an expansive view of the district, from elementary to high school and an awareness of the diversity of schools and families we have across the district.” The 2012 candidate for Arapahoe County commissioner is the mother of an LPS graduate and two students currently in the school system.

for the upcoming election Nov. 5, to raise $80 million. The funds would be used to address building and structural issues, as the average facility is more than 50 years old.

Recently, the district refinanced it’s current bond debt with lower interest rates. The district is requesting taxpayers to approve the additional spending for structural improvements. LPS has said it will not raise the current mill levy, that taxpayers will continue to pay the same amount and just allow the additional funding to address the structural issues of aging buildings. If the bond issue is approved, construction is

slotted to begin next May, as most construction activity will require the students and staff to be out of school.

Three to four LPS employees will be assigned full time related to the construction activities.

Supporters of the bond issue have formed a group called Citizens for Littleton Public Schools Committee (www.citizensforlps.com) that is co-chaired by Amy Walker Kurtz and Heather Kelly. John Brackney, the South Metro Denver Chamber’s president and CEO is also a board member of the CLPS actively crusading for the passage of this ballot issue.

This proposed state constitutional amendment would be the

funding mechanism for education-reform legislation and would change school financing and the state income tax. The amendment would repeal the constitutional requirement that K-12 per-pupil funding grow annually by at least the rate of inflation. It would also require a minimum of 43 percent of state sales, excise and income taxes be used to pay for public education. Lastly, Amendment 66 would statutorily increase indi-

vidual income tax rates from 4.63 percent to 5 percent on federal taxable income up to $75,000 and from 4.73 percent to 5.9 percent on federal taxable income greater than $75,000. The measure would increase income taxes, but not corporate, sales or property taxes. The average family would pay about $11 more in taxes, raising about $950 million during the first fiscal year, according to estimates.

2011) and Vicki Howard (elected in 2007), serving along with the two new board members Tena Prange and Jason Sakry serving four-year terms, developed a process to fill the vacant two-year position.

Englewood residents who have been registered to vote in the city

for at least one year are eligible to be considered for the vacant twoyear school board term. The district encourages interested people to fill out the online application, which contains three written questions.

The deadline for the applications is Oct. 17, 5 p.m. An open

forum will be conducted with the qualified applicants on Oct. 29 at the administration building, 4101 S. Bannock St., at 6:30 p.m. During this forum candidates will be asked questions by the board members.

At press time, two people had submitted applications.

Cast your vote for Turley in Centennial District 1

to promote teamwork with other members of the City Council. After giving the matter some consideration I decided to help her as much as I could in her campaign. I lived in the area that became Centennial for quite a few years and cared about the area’s future.

Cathy made many friends during the campaign. In fact, many of us wore those purple Cathy Noon T-shirts when shopping in Centennial. After winning the election, Cathy was definitely ready to take up her new role in the city. It wasn’t long before the leaders of other cities nearby talked very favorably about her. It almost seemed like Cathy was everywhere in the area. In these four years, Cathy has not only been an integral part of Centennial, she has been a leader in the southeast metro area on many issues.

Centennial is very fortunate to have Cathy Noon as mayor. She should be reelected for a second term in November. Do your part and vote for Cathy in the upcoming election.

Harold Anderson, Councilman City of Lone Tree

was not certain if that really provided any limit at all. When asked that, even if it was assumed that the current make-up of the City Council did not intend for the city to be a provider of such services, what was in place to stop a future city council from getting into this type of potentially risky business, the response was: nothing right now, but perhaps the commissioned study and plan (that had yet to be devised and presented) might try to put limits on that.

In other words, no, no limit now and who knows in the future?

It appears that 2G is putting the proverbial “cart before the horse” – that is the city does not have a plan, has not defined its role, but instead is asking the voters for pre-authorization to indirectly provide services with minimal restriction or limitation. It would seem much more prudent for the city to first determine what the city proposes as its plan, what its role or limitations would be, and then the voters could make an informed decision as to whether to vote to give the city authorization to proceed. As it stands now, the voters are being asked to authorize the city to provide services without knowing what that may involve, how far the city may go, what risks may be involved, or what cost may be incurred. While some sort of plan may be a very good idea, we don’t have any idea how to decide that when we are voting on 2G. The mayor is a strong proponent of 2G. This is again another example of the current mayor’s approach: She says she wants limited government, informed electorate and fiscal responsibility, but her actions are for pushing for more governmental power, more spending and further intrusion into the lives of citizens without providing a rationale. Words and sound bites are easy, but actions speak louder. Mayor Noon doesn’t walk the talk.

Her support of Ballot Question 2G sounds like Nancy Pelosi – we have to pass it first

LPS Ballot Issue 3B

Littleton Public Schools has placed a bond issue on the ballot

measure that placed legal marijuana in the state Constitution, required the legislature to enact an excise tax on marijuana sales.

If Proposition AA fails, the state will be required to use funds from Colorado’s general fund to enforce marijuana regulations.

Amendment 66

Englewood Schools to fill one board vacancy Letters to the Editor Vote Martens for Centennial City Council

Centennial has four seats opening up in City Council and in the best interest of the people and the city of Centennial those seats need to be replaced with counselors able to look past party-lines and look for solutions.

1. Our system of government requires checks and balances to work well. We can see at the state and national level today what happens when there is a one-sided agenda at work. Gridlock, dissention, and partisanship, instead of a representative government with the people’s best interests put first.

2. To vet a topic and come up with the BEST solutions you need differing perspectives to bring out theinfluencing variables and chip away at them.

3. Variables with negative impact on specific people groups may never be recognized and considered, and time, energy, and money are wasted in implementation, litigation, removal, and redevelopment when it becomes evident that the solution in fact created additional problems.

To find equilibrium you must create disequilibrium to remove the weighty issues that holds back consensus.

Being a special education teacher, Theresa Martens understands this and can bring the “civil discourse” needed to vet out solutions that will best represent all of Centennial. She will hear your concerns and protect your interests. Even if you are of a differing ideology, we all win when there is discussion and rational problem solving in our city government.

Think about whether you want these four seats filled with people that will just “rubber stamp” the current council’s agenda, or if you want people that will listen to the constituency, question the motives and consequences of each issue, and ensure that each decision is best for Centennial.

Cherie Vaughan Greenwood Village

Vote Noon for City of Centennial mayor

The first deadline for candidate financial reports was Sept. 24. I urge Centennial voters to take a look at these reports, which are on public record, and note some of the serious issues that are in mayoral candidate Monika Bromley’s filing.

Mrs. Bromley is running for mayor of Centennial, an office that should be held by someone who understands financial reports, is detail oriented and overall an astute manager of our city’s financial resources. However, Mrs. Bromley’s report is a display of either ignorance of, or complete disregard for campaign finance rules.

Mrs. Bromley’s campaign finance report states that she had $100 on hand at the beginning of the reporting period. That is not possible, as she did not have a campaign in place before this reporting period, which began in October. We are left with no accountability or record of where the $100 came from. Looking further at the report, we find Mrs. Bromley showing contributions to her campaign, $100 + $2,470 = $3,470. Campaign finance rules can be difficult; however these errors in simple math are inexcusable.

As a candidate, Mrs. Bromley consistently talks about the need for “smart spending” and her desire “to rein in spending.” Her financial report shows a $1,331 deficit; when the math is done correctly, the actual deficit is $2,231.03. Her campaign has reportedly spent nearly twice as much as it has taken in. How is this debt accounted for? Do you want a mayor who spends money before she has it?

When you receive your mail-in ballot, please take the time to cast your vote for Mayor Cathy Noon. She has demonstrated fiscal responsibility and the utmost integrity in all matters. Mayor Noon has strong relationships with surrounding municipalities and will continue to lead our city with integrity and respect. She wants what we want – a great city to call home.

Tracy Chapman Centennial

Please vote for Kathy Turley for Centennial City Council District 1. Kathy has continually supported and participated in the success of Centennial. Actually, Kathy was appointed to the Senior Commission and has served in that capacity since its inception. In regards to the home rule charter, I agree with Kathy that the charter should have encouraged citizen involvement by electing the two positions of clerk and treasurer, thereby preventing excessive power given to a city manager. As an example, District 1 got expensive and useless bicycle lanes on Otero/Adams approved by the “manager” that had to be removed at additional expense of $60,000. After no response from my two council members and manager, I want new leadership. I want citizen led government, not government leading us. Kathy’s campaign slogan is “there will be no blank checks on my watch.” I’ve known Kathy as a friend and neighbor for many years. Centennial is a great city where I’ve lived close to 50 years, and Kathy Turley is definitely my choice.

Bonnie Percefull Centennial

Re-elect Mayor Cathy Noon

I was introduced to Cathy Noon about five years ago when she was considering running for her first term as Centennial mayor. I wanted to meet her because I had heard a number of positive things about her leadership in the Centennial Charter election, work with seniors, etc. I also knew that being mayor of Centennial might have a positive impact on the entire southeast metro area. After visiting with her over lunch, I realized that she had an excellent idea of the time and effort the position would require and that she showed every sign of having the skills to do an excellent job. I could also tell that she had the personality to get along well with others and

Centennial 2G – It’s Not Ready For A Yes Vote

At a public forum held Oct. 5, Centennial’s city attorney appeared with and on behalf of the mayor and the city in support of Centennial Ballot Question 2G. The city attorney was asked what the city’s plan was or what role the city would have for involving itself in provision of cable, Internet or telecommunication services through its fiber optics system. The response was: they were not sure and they would be proposing to perform a Request for Proposal from an outside consultant, to study and help determine what the city would propose and what role it would have in provision of the service. They did state that they had removed the word “directly” from the proposal, but that leaving in the word “indirectly” could be interpreted in many ways and it

Continued on page 8

SPECIAL ELECTION GUIDE PAGE 8 • THE VILLAGER • October 17, 2013

Letters to the Editor to see what in it! We don’t need that type of leadership for Centennial.

Monika Bromley Centennial

Vote Kathy Turley for Centennial Council

This November, Kathy Turley is a candidate for Centennial City Council, District 1. I would encourage voters in District 1 to vote for Kathy for several reasons. First, I have known Kathy for over 10 years, and I have found her to always be honest and ethical.

We need more people elected who have these qualities. Second, Kathy is a proven leader. She has served on several committees providing services to our community and has brought new ideas, improved values and insight to those groups. For several years, she chaired the Arapahoe County Senior Day Event and identified corporate sponsors, facilitated team meetings and recruited exhibitors. This is leadership that our City Council needs. Finally, Kathy is a fiscal conservative. We need our city council to listen to the citizens and then implement decisions that we, the voters, want. I encourage District 1 voters to cast their vote for Kathy.

Nancy Doty Centennial

Kathy Turley is wrong for Centennial

Looking at Kathy’s demonstrated track record of opposing everything the city has done that has made us an award winning model city, a city serving the needs of our ctizens, I cannot understand why she wants to serve on City Council. In the 13-year history of the City of Centennial, Kathy has been against everything of importance the city has done. Put another way, Kathy has consistently worked against the City of Centennial and now she is running for City Council again.

Starting with the formation of our city and on through at least 2008, she campaigned against the city forming or in-

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corporating saying, “We are not ready. We should annex in to Littleton.” She was shown to be exactly wrong by 77.8 percent of the voters. She also campaigned against every “De-Brucing” effort and the 1 percent tax increase needed due to a poor estimation by the State of Colorado. She was shown to be wrong again by the majority of the voters each time.

She was elected one of 21 Charter Commissioners (10 Republicans, 10 Democrats, and one Independent), served on the Charter Commission, signed the Charter showing approval and then actively campaigned against the Charter. She stated in a letter to the editor of The Villager Newspaper (June 5, 2008), that she decided not to support the Charter because, “Charter Commission was predominately from one political persuasion and not mine.” Kathy Turley was not the one Independent so is this another example of her indecision and faulty reasoning? She was wrong on the Charter, which was approved by the majority of the voters.

No wonder most of the Charter Commission is endorsing Mike Hanbery.

In her letter of 2008, and in her campaign this year, Kathy also stated that she disagrees with the Charter (our Constitution), which removed an elected city clerk and treasurer and replaced them with credentialed professionals who would have to be hired additionally. I personally prefer to have a professional handling my city’s financial business than someone coming into the job without credentials for, and knowledge of, the work.

Every effort of the city that Kathy has opposed in the past 13 years has been approved by the voters with significant majorities proving her wrong on each effort.

She seems almost pathological in choosing to go against common sense time and time again. The clear sense here is that Kathy Turley is wrong for Centennial. She was wrong at the start and she is wrong now.

The City of Centennial is doing great things for our citizens, our neighborhoods and our region. The City of Centennial is a

thriving model of people working together. The City of Centennial is doing very well in spite of Kathy Turley, not because of her.

Keep our city strong, growing and serving our citizens. Do not vote for Kathy Turley.

JLS Holiday Centennial

Mike Hanbery is my Choice for Centennial

I am a Centennial District 1 resident and I urge every voter to support Mike Hanbery for our City Council District 1. Mike is the only candidate with a vision that matches the vision our citizens have voiced over the past 13 years. He is the only candidate with the experience of working well with others of different viewpoints to reach the best solution for a city he cares deeply for. Mike can and will work to keep the city moving in the direction our citizens have said they want our city to go.

Mike has a history of community leadership, business development, work in education and neighborhood and commercial boards. His expertise in economic development will keep our city growing economically; helping to keep our taxes low, our property values high and our quality of life exceptionally high. Mike Hanbery is a resident of the Southglenn neighborhood and will work diligently to maintain the character of our neighborhoods.

As John Brackney, one of our City of Centennial founders and CEO of South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce has said, “Mike is exactly the kind of public servant we need in Centennial City Council. He’s hard working, smart, he listens. Mike has a passion for our community. I like Mike!” I cannot say it any better.

Additionally, Mike has other bi-partisan endorsements from current and past council members, the majority of the Charter Commissioners who wrote our City Charter, and citizens who volunteer to work for our city. These are the people who have

listened to the citizens, worked hard for the city and made this city the great place it is to live, work and play. These bi-partisan endorsers picking Mike Hanbery, exemplifies the fact that Mike Hanbery is the best candidate for District 1 City Council.

I will vote for Mike and I urge you to vote for him also for the sake of our city, our way of life and our quality of life.

Keep Centennial working for you - vote for Mike Hanbery.

William C Stokey Former Home Rule Charter Commissioner Centennial

Vote YES on Littleton Public Schools 3B

We moved here nine years ago from the South and were thrilled to live in a place where we knew we could send our kids to a quality public school; we did not come from a community where that was possible. We looked at multiple districts, their performance, ratings, etc., and spoke to parents. We selected Littleton. We have never looked back and my boys are now in middle school.

I have had the opportunity to work inside the district and get close to its leadership, processes and methods. I am incredibly impressed with not only how the district is run but also with the integrity of its staff, executives and board members. Most importantly, I see accountability.

The detailed analyses and full on work effort that has led to us voting on 3B is amazing. It was not just staff, it was citizens who volunteered to spend countless hours figuring out what was the most important to be repaired or upgraded at each school and to document and communicate those findings in a completely transparent way. There is no question that the dollars that are being requested are necessary to maintain the taxpayers’ assets, keep our kiddos safe, and make sure they can handle the technology that today’s students – and tomorrow’s – will use. All without a tax

increase. I could not be any more proud to have my kids in Littleton. Let’s keep the tradition of excellence going! Please join me in voting YES on 3B! Heather Kelly Co-Chair Citizens For LPS

Former LPS Board presidents say vote YES on 3B

As former presidents of the Littleton Public Schools Board of Education, we have a commitment to our community’s children and schools. We, too, have faced the challenge of maintaining a safe, secure and supportive learning environment for our students in our older school buildings. We have watched with great interest and satisfaction as this Board has made decisions that are financially sound and in the best interests of the entire community.

We support this board’s decision to ask voters to approve the sale of $80 million in bonds this November for school repairs.

We can each attest to the challenges LPS faces when trying to maintain its aging facilities. Keeping our schools safe and in good condition is the right thing to do for students, for employees, and for the community as a whole. The fact that this can be done without increasing the tax rate means that there is no better time. Delaying would only mean paying higher interest rates and having less funding for school improvements.

These are the kinds of responsible decisions you want your elected officials to make on your behalf. We will be voting YES on 3B this November. We strongly urge you to vote yes, as well.

Aims McGuinness BOE Term 1983-1991 Karen Kaplan BOE Term 1979-1995 William Cisney BOE Term 1993-1997 Jack Ballard BOE Term 1991-1999 Mary McGlone BOE Term 1995-2005 Diana Holland BOE Term 1999-2007

Creek school board candidates speak up

I

By Tom Barry nterested voters and Cherry Creek School District executives and staff gathered Oct. 8 to listen to the three school board candidates at a district forum.

The upcoming election will be conducted Nov. 5. Registered voters will receive ballots this week for the all-mail election.

There are three candidates vying for two open slots for directors. Karen Fisher is running unopposed for an elected position in District E. She will be filling the seat vacated by Jennifer Churchfield, who has served two terms on the board and was term limited.

In District D, political newcomer Brian Arnold is challenging incumbent Randy Perlis, who is running for his second and final term.

Candidate backgrounds and opinions

Perlis said he was a “triple crowner,” having children in elementary, middle and high schools within the district. He is a doctorial candidate earning a degree in chemistry education.

He also noted that he has served as a swimming and diving official and instructs first responders in how to handle hazardous materials.

“This is a Super Bowl week was in corporate lending. Fisher for scientists. This is when they has analyzed budgets, projecgive out the Nobel Prizes,” he tions and financial reports. She said. “… We do a lot of col- said her financial expertise laborative teaching … having would be useful on the board. worked in industry for 30 years, She said she was most proud of everything is collaborative.” her 19 years as a volunteer with Arnold said he came early the Creek school system. with his wife to the forum to tour “When you think about his alma mater, as he graduated school choice, the first thing from Creek in 1983. The couple that I think is that I want everyhas eight children with two at body’s first choice to be their Cherokee Trail High School. He neighborhood school,” Fisher Cherry Creek School Board candidates Brian Arnold, Randy Photo by Tom Barry was awarded a track scholarship said. “It was for us, and it is for Perlis and Karen Fisher. to a California university and most of our friends and neigh- relatively new Superintendent didn’t see a lot of color.” later earned a master’s degree bors, fortunately. We do of- Harry Bull and the current Arnold brought up some isin Educational Technology. Ar- fer here in Cherry Creek a few board and the teachers union. sues related to special educanold is working on his doctor- other choices [noting alternative Candidates then were given tion in the district, as he has a ate and teaching and coaching at schools].” a few minutes to share their fi- nephew who is autistic and has Cherokee. He has been a teachnal thoughts, and that is when faced some challenges in the er since 1989 and also has had a Creek district 40 percent Arnold shook things up. district. financial-services company.

“I think there are a lot of “I’m hoping that I am a perminority “We have now eight, nine issues that still need to be adson of change, I’m a person Each candidate praised the maybe 10 years of dressed, I know of innovation,” the candidate habits that kids have sometimes the said. “I don’t think the board is created and they are transparency isn’t broke. … I think they are doused to and they are always there,” he ing the best thing possible they pushing back,” Arsaid. “I see especan for kids. But sometimes I nold said the Comcially with kids of think it’s time for a new face. mon Core emphasis. color, 40 percent of “As a board memthe district is now a … I have a certain viewpoint, I ber, it will be a huge minority. ... When have a certain set of skills, I am responsibility to be I’m at the school an educator.”

During Arnold’s remarks the liaison to the during the day, at there were several people in community to kind least today when of explain what this I was there, and I attendance who shrugged their change is happenlooked through the shoulders, rolled their eyes and ing.” sea of kids, I saw a sighed softly.

According to the district’s Fisher has a maslot of color. When I ter’s in finance and looked through the website, the total ethnic popumarketing. Most of Creek Principal Ryan Silva moderates the school sea of teachers and lation for the district is 38.8 administrators, I percent. her financial career board forum.