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Lisa Cutter Democrat
Residence: Littleton
Profession: State Senator
Education: Bachelor of Science in Marketing
Experience: Industry leader in PR for nearly 30 years, including founding and operating a succuessful PR firm. Served as a state legislator for eight years.
What are your top three priorities, if elected?
Working to prepare residents for wildfire and building resiliency. Many parts of Jeffco are at serious risk of catastrophic wildfire. The county has done remarkable work, but community members individually are still largely unprepared.
Supporting and fully executing Jeffco’s sustainability plan. Respecting our resources and building a more circular economy can help blunt impacts of climate change, including the impacts of extreme weather, air quality, water and increased wildfires.
I will prioritize smart growth and affordable housing. Growth intersects with issues such as economic and environmental impacts, increased traffic and other factors and I will look for the best balance.
What specific actions would you support to address residents’ affordability concerns and to increase the availability of housing in your county?
I will continue the work to collaborate with local governments and outside organizations to work together to prioritize need and identify funding. I will also support regulatory reform (e.g. zoning) when necessary to provide options for more density and preservation of existing housing stock. The county has a very robust 15 year strategic housing plan, and I will advocate for, and participate in, its full implementation. It is critical to the continued health and vibrancy of our community to prioritize affordable housing for seniors as our community ages and our workforce – people that help our communities thrive.
What specific opportunities do you see for collaboration with Denver or state government to take on common challenges?
Eight years of experience in the legislature working closely with Jeffco commissioners has helped me understand the ways state and county governments can work together. Considering local needs is important, but collaboration, particularly on issues that don’t have boundaries, such as climate, sustainability and wildfire, can ensure better outcomes. I believe affordable housing, transit and tax policy are areas in which we can also work with the state government to create better communities for all of us.
Stephanie Vandenberg did not return the questionnaire.
