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Jake Bockenfeld Republican
Residence: Parker
Profession: Commercial Operations – Precast Concrete
Education: BA human communication, minor in economics – University of Northern Colorado
Experience: 16+ years of private sector experience in the medical and construction industries. Involved in local and state politics as a citizen. Son of former County Commissioner and State Rep. Rod Bockenfeld.
What are your top three priorities, if elected?
Public safety – When crime in Colorado has risen over the years, I will ensure the DC Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s office has the means necessary to keep our community safe.
Fiscal responsibility – Reduce unnecessary waste and ensure county government runs efficient. Reduce the county tax burden on its citizens in a time when Democrat state leadership continues to waste it.
Responsible Growth – ensuring the county does not develop faster than its infrastructure, essential services and scarce resources, i.e. water, can handle. Protect our designated rural and open space.
What specific actions would you support to address residents’ affordability concerns and to increase the availability of housing in your county?
The overall affordability issue must be addressed at the state level to really make a difference. At the county level, I support reducing government inefficiencies that create unnecessary costs or delays. Establishing consistent permitting timeframes and reducing unnecessary or duplicative reviews are a few examples. The more we can reduce the cost and delays associated with building homes in Douglas County, the more we can make homeownership more attainable at the local level.
What specific opportunities do you see for collaboration with Denver or state government to take on common challenges?
I believe the county should collaborate with state and surrounding municipalities when it benefits the residents of Douglas County.
As Commissioner, I will focus on limiting our reliance on state or federal funding to cover long term operating costs as well as protect local policy making decisions from state overreach. The more we can insulate Douglas County from costly or ineffective policies imposed at the state level, the better off our residents will be.
Irene Bonham Democrat
Residence: Parker
Profession: Nonprofit executive specializing in communications
Education: BA Arts Management, University of Redlands; MS Organizational Leadership, University of Denver
Experience: Respected nonprofit leader with 20+ years of professional experience and a record of civic leadership, public engagement, community advocacy, strategic planning and cross-sector collaboration.
What are your top three priorities, if elected?
1. Good Governance: Increase transparency, restore meaningful public participation, strengthen accountability, and make county government more accessible to residents.
2. Affordability: Address rising household costs by expanding access to affordable childcare, supporting workforce needs, and examining county policies that affect housing and everyday expenses.
3. Smart, Responsible Growth: Prioritize infrastructure, water, public safety, and community impacts before approving major development; improve regional coordination; and establish clearer standards for large-scale projects such as data centers.
What specific actions would you support to address residents’ affordability concerns and to increase the availability of housing in your county?
Housing is a key part of affordability, but we must also consider other rising costs families face, like childcare. I propose forming a bipartisan task force to improve access to affordable childcare in Douglas County. Additionally, I will strengthen partnerships to expand attainable workforce and senior housing and review permitting processes to increase housing supply. I support housing choices that align with community needs and infrastructure while preserving character. Expanding transportation options to connect residents with jobs and services is essential. Douglas County should leverage resources and partnerships to help families thrive in their communities.
What specific opportunities do you see for collaboration with Denver or state government to take on common challenges?
There’s always an opportunity to build on existing partnerships. Douglas County already works well with Denver-area communities and the State on transportation, infrastructure, and wildfire preparedness. I would build on those partnerships. I would also partner with Universal Preschool Colorado, the state-funded preschool program, and local providers to expand affordable childcare options. Challenges like water, housing, transportation, and responsible growth don’t stop at county lines. I would strengthen regional coordination on emerging issues such as large-scale data centers. Collaboration means bringing resources, expertise, and governments together while ensuring Douglas County has a strong voice at the table.
