Liberal and Loving It

Question 8: If you could pass 1 bill

You got elected to the Council and the upcoming meeting is on your birthday. As a birthday present the other 8 council members have said they will pass one bill you propose, regardless of what it does. What would that bill do? Why this specific bill?

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

Hmmm… many of the bills that I would consider would require a charter amendment; however if given this one opportunity, I would pass legislation that would grant free access to our Recreation Centers for all minors (minors defined as all citizens of Boulder under 21 years of age).  This would allow all children regardless of socio-economic status an opportunity to be at these vital community centers.  It would teach a lifetime oof positive activities and keep them engaged in the city.

Susan Peterson

I would pass a bill that would fund a new program focused on making Boulder energy independent, with maximum use of renewable resources,  by 2050.  I would choose this bill, because I know that energy is going to be an incredibly scarce resource in my son’s lifetime, and that the best legacy I could leave him and his kids is a city that is not only clean, but incredibly prosperous due to the forward thinking actions of City Council in 2007.

Larry Quilling

I would declare a city “Cake Day”.  Let everyone eat cake!
Seriously, I would propose an ordinance to line the Whitemeyer ponds for additional water storage which would be used to restore winter flows to South Boulder and Middle Boulder Creeks through water exchanges.  I am very passionate about conserving, protecting and restoring our creeks and streams.  Our 1st hard freeze will kill most all remaining fish, frogs and other aquatic life in South Boulder Creek this fall because of lack of flows.  I’d really like a flowing stream for my next birthday.

Tom Riley

This bill would provide housing for all low/moderate middle working class. The ones Boulder is proving to forget. This bill would allow that the middle-class working in Boulder and are invested in Boulder’s future would be allowed the opportunity to live here.

The middle-class are the backbone of our society and the next generation’s answer to our current problems, issues, and unfortunate disagreements which continue to promote anti-diversity. The middle-class is the most divers of classes and its presence should be celebrated and supported.

In socioeconomic diversity we will find the ideas necessary to support our ideals.

Eric Rutherford

The bill would be called “Empowering the Hispanic Community to Vote”.  My wife is Mexican, and I would like to see at least 50 percent the legal immigrant population vote and see that their vote can and does make a difference in our community.  The bill would sponsor bilingual advertising to the Hispanic community.

Thanks for the present, guys!

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

Really..This is the best present I have ever received (next to my back pack, and fly rod...any way)  I would see a stronger economic incentive package passed. both for reduction of paper work when a business enters the city but more importantly I would see that the incentives for solar energy( PV or hot Water intstaliation made to be accessible to ALL the residence in Boulder not just the hand full that first apply. ohh and reduction of the land use codes so it is not 600+ pages long( that is a bear to read and after the first 200 any person would lose track)

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

Hard question as the issue always change, I guess If I had to pick a "blank policy check" on one current issue it would be to stop spending 150K a year studying municipalization. I feel that money is better spent directly on reducing the city's carbon footprint. 150K goes a long way to subsidizing windsource for low income families, assisting residents and businesses find ways to conserve energy and save money.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

We have so very many ordinances on the books as it is, I think I would choose to revisit or improve some existing ordinances now that we have more data and experience to see what works and what doesn't. Ah, but perhaps I would pass a "bill" to end Council meetings at 11 p.m. It just seems as though effective discussion should be able to happen within that timeframe if we exercise a little discipline and do our homework.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

Not a bill, but a resolution.  The City would not expend any resources in detaining or rounding up any undocumented individuals within the city boundaries.  I would suggest the City does not have the resources to comply with any federal or state mandate related to undocumented individuals.  Individuals who have warrants or felons would be exempted from this resolution.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

I would ask that they pass a bill that increases the amount of affordable housing from 10% to at least 40%.  The best communities are integrated, thus instead of having all the workers live on the outskirts of town, I would propose that affordable housing be made available in all the neighborhoods.  It is a travesty that people who work in Boulder can not afford to live in Boulder.  Many of the people who paid taxes for many years in Boulder to pay for roads, schools etc. have been driven out.  This needs to be changed or else Boulder will become a stale, uninteresting city.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

at the bilingual forum on sunday, i proposed that i would immediately work to direct the city staff to implement the recommendations of the inclusivity task force recommendations. if you want to know what those are, in general, it has to do with institutionalizing culturally competent practices in city government. i'll send them to you if you want to read those.

Question 9: Public vote on the convention center

Our next question is from John Adams

Would the council you be willing to put to a vote on a public ballot, whether or not the people of Boulder want a convention center in the proposed 13th and Canyon location or another location(proposed or not)?

Susan Peterson

I think that a convention center in the proposed 13th and Canyon location is an incredibly bad idea – akin to “cutting off your nose to spite your face”, and would advocate that we shut that discussion down without even going to a vote.

Further, I am not in favor of a “conventional convention center” in any location.  I would like to see us develop a facility that is more in alignment with our unique spirit and our Target Market.  If we think about the types of industry that are attracted to Boulder – natural products, outdoor equipment, academia, science, creative arts, etc – then we might come up with a very different concept for the types of groups we would like to attract.  Perhaps we should be thinking more about a “World Community Center”, rather than limiting ourselves to a conference center. We could create a place that leverages our Chatauqua heritage -- a place that attracts free thinking and expression by its very design.

Larry Quilling

Yes, I support a public ballot for a new conference center.  Other surrounding communities are building and booking their centers while Boulder debates the location.  Our opportunity to place a conference center near downtown is sadly closing as many of the possible sites have been recently developed.  I do not support the 13th and Canyon location for all the reasons stated by concerned citizens. 
Why not locate the conference center in our new Transit Village?  It seems to be the logical site with easy access to Foothills Parkway, within walking distance of 29th St. and a straight connection west to the Pearl St. Mall.

Tom Riley

Yes. It should defiantly be put to vote. The 13th street and Canyon is a poor choice. The Farmer’s Market, BMOCA, Central Park, and the Boulder creek path should not be overshadowed by a convention center. 

The 29th street mall or perhaps the Daily Camera lot would be better placements. Both these locations are adjacent to ample shopping and hotel accommodations.

In addition, the conference center should also be a cultural center. To maximize profit and visitation, we should strive to create a conference/cultural center that showcases the ideals of Boulder. We have the forefront of natural foods, bio-technologies, software, outdoor sports, matrixes in this nation. A convention center will allow us to shape the direction of our nation.

Eric Rutherford

Boulder must build a convention center, so the question of “want” should not be put to a public vote because it is too difficult to outline all the value to the City.  However, the location question should be put to a public hearing of some fashion, whether a vote or through a designated committee.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

This question is hardly legible. but I think it has to do with the proposed location of the convention center. I will not support the current location. I think that it is in a place that is already stressed beyond its means transportationaly(made up a new word) and parking wise not to mention the traffic I would support a different location that is already existing and is still in proxy to many of the features of Boulder.

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

It's actually very likely that this issue would have to go to the ballot as it will likely require a bond which needs voter approval.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

I'm not sure I actually could do that, legally. However, it certainly is a burning issue for many people, and one on which they would like to weigh in and have a deciding vote. It will be important as we consider the convention center question, that we provide an open and accountable process for making decisions about it. It do us no good to push forward if there is not public support for the project.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late.

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

Yes.  My preference for a location is in the transit village area.  This facility would serve not only as a convention/conference center but as our performing arts center as well.  I would suggest we would have to build a monorail to move people to our downtown business area and to the University.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

Yes, I would be willing to put to a vote first whether or not the voters even wanted a convention center in the first place and then whether or not the people want a convention center in the downtown area.  Additionally I would have a space for voters to write in their idea for a location if they did not favor a location down town.  I have been getting an enormous amount of feedback on this question and have talked with people who have some great ideas for locations.  I think on a matter this important the people of the city should have a voice.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

first, mr. adams assumes that the city council is set on passing a conference center at some undetermined location. i'd say that if the citizenry feels that strong about this or any issue, there is an initiative process to get questions on the ballot - it is onerous, but none-the-less possible, it just happened in longmong on an annexation. i encourage john adams to get the effort to happen. by the way, 13th and canyon isn't the only location for a conference center.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

This is absolutely essential for a proper debate on the issue.  The economic impact study that was prepared several years ago showed a potential operating deficit of between $250,000 and $500,000 a year for the center.  I am a proponent of a conference center because I think it will generate more in revenue for the city than this if done properly.  If these operating costs are defrayed by another entity then a vote may be less necessary because there wound not need to be as large a fiduciary impact on the city budget; although, to generate the capital needed would most likely require a vote of the people.  A conference center could serve as a cultural asset to the community.  The Dairy Center is consistently expressing a desire for more performance space in the community for instance.  I think that the increased revenue to the city could more than offset a subsidy if done properly.  I also think that if a collaborative partnership is made with CU to build the conference center, the university could help defray any operating costs.  The merging of the idea of an Executive Training Center that CU seeks with a conference center and cultural facility could help fulfill many community needs.  In addition a conference center would assist CU, the National Labs, and our burgeoning natural products industry be more successful in promoting discoveries and innovations.

Question 7: South Boulder floodplain

Our next question is from Casey Mulligan

Several years ago, the city commissioned a study concerning the South Boulder Creek floodplain.  That study concluded that the previously drawn FEMA map erroneously excluded large tracts of residential neighborhoods that are north of Table Mesa and east of 30th from the 100-year floodplain. 

Given that the new floodplain map shows that several thousand more people in East Boulder are now at risk of injury or death as well as catastrophic property damage in the next 100-year flood, what would you do to re-focus city council attention on prevention and mitigation efforts?

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

the study to which you refer found a number of errors, not just at cu south. this is a tool that can be used to stop development, it also is a tool to guide development as the city and landowners adapt to the new flood plain boundaries. while i was on the planning board, we reviewed these new fema documents and want to work with property owners to do what we can to redefine the way water flows around boulder and boulder county.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

Given better and more current techniques we should examine the zoning in the flood plain and limit development in this area.  This should certainly affect decisions made regarding CU-South because development in this area will negatively affect downstream property owners who are currently there.  I will be a person who can bring the University to the table to develop a solution for relinquishing the South Campus Property in exchange for a negotiated solution.  The city should leverage all of its assets to set this issue to rest once and for all.

Susan Peterson

I am not a flood hazard expert, but my civil engineering background leads me to believe that we should start by ensuring that the current berm is certified by FEMA. If so, the portion on the west side of the berm would not be subject to flooding which, from a flood safety perspective, would be a good thing.

Protecting Boulder citizens from natural disaster is an important part of governance, and I would re-focus efforts on prevention and mitigation by setting some time limits for making decisions and implementation of plans.

Larry Quilling

I encourage everyone to visit the Boulder Creek Watershed Initiative website and view the pictures of flooding in the South Boulder Creek Basin in the late 1950’s where South Boulder Creek closed US 36 and splaked out in every direction.  This is an issue of public safety and we cannot allow short-sided gains to obscure future realities.  The Big Thompson flood can and will happen in our community.   Maybe not in my lifetime but it will happen.  Prevention and mitigation are essential public service mandates for our council.

Tom Riley

I propose a moratorium on any future building in the floodplain. I come from California where the army CORP of engineers constructed hundreds of miles of levies to contain that which cannot be contained. I feels strongly that given the example of New Orleans that it is prudent of us not to allow building in the flood plane. So many insured have found themselves uninsured and un-reimbursed for the damages of nature.

In addition to this, I feel that assurances should be obtained from insurance companies perhaps a emergency fund should be built so that in the event of a 100 year flood, that no one’s dreams are washed out.

Eric Rutherford

We can recognize that  this is a potential problem and be prepared for the 100 year flood.  However, it is equally important to bear in mind that it is called a “100 year flood” for a reason and re simply cannot relocate everyone in the area.  Unfortunately, to a degree we will have to be reactive rather than proactive.  That having been said, the planning for the problem should happen to ensure safety and protection of property.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

Nothing. the cost to the home owner, and the city would divert funding from much needed programs.( libraries, rec. centers, etc.) I would however reconsider any development plans in these areas(not that there are any) to conform to flood safety standards.

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

Again this is going to require cooperation with the County as the City alone cannot finance and man the entire mitigation effort. This will require building flood mitigation capital improvements (channels, maintaining wetlands, etc.) and also maintaining sufficient emergency responder staff in the event of emergency and ensuring that responders which in such a scenario would be from several different agencies have the ability to communicate, which I contend the county must be a partner in this.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

I had the pleasure of attending a disaster-preparedness seminar for businesses at the Chamber of Commerce recently, and they did a great job of scaring the bejeezus out of us, particularly with relation to the 100 and 500 year floods. That said, I was very impressed with our current disaster readiness staff, and I think we are in pretty good hands. We need to make sure our critical services, computer backup systems, first responders, and so on, are out of the floodplain, and those plans are complete or in the works. It's something we have to keep our eye on, even though no one likes to think about it for very long.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

We first have to distinguish between the land that would be flood plain which is land that will be under more than three feet of water in a 100 year flood and the remaining land that would be receive some flooding but not as catastrophic.  I am not an engineer but I would think building berms to direct the water could protect areas that might suffer flooding.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

This question ties in with the one concerning development of the CU South Campus which was notated as being in the "floodplain" until a few months ago when it was suddenly listed as being a potential building site and it was stated that the berm would keep it dry while at the same time the residential neighborhood that are north of Table Mesa and east of 30th are now listed as suddenly being "in" the floodplain and the residents have to come up with $1200.00 flood insurance.  AS to all this talk of floodplain, I grew up in Boulder.  There is lots of sudden building on areas that were listed as floodplain for decades - the St Julien for one and parts of the downtown area for another (the library).  Building in these areas is asking for a catastrophe. 
Buildling on the CU South Campus area would increase the danger because if the earth is replaced by asphalt and cement it will retain water and not allow it to soak into the earth.  During one of the floods along the Mississippi River it was notated that the cement and asphalt that replaced the dirt which acted as a sponge, was one of the main reasons for the flooding.  Thus the city council needs to re-evaluate building plans and return to the practice of limiting building in dangerous areas.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Question 6: If you could ask 1 Question

If we have to hire a new City Manager (I am not suggesting we should) and you could ask each candidate one question, and only one question, what would that question be? How does that question illuminate which is the best candidate?

Kathryn Kramer

The question I would ask is in what direction do you want Boulder to go as far as future growth and middle class residents are concerned?  I think the question is vital to whether Boulder becomes another Aspen or Beverely Hills or if we find a place for the "worker bees" in our community.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

i've been through tim honey, ron secrist and now frank bruno they have all served the people of boulder well. we need top city staff who implement city policy unflinchingly and with vigor. as a city council member, i know how to keep issues in the political system long enough to ensure strong public policy. i won't send half-baked policy for staff to try and implement.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

I would ask what adversity they have faced in their lives.  This would illuminate something about the integrity of the individual, and understanding of what may be a perspective on how they deal with the most difficult social sustainability aspect of the triple bottom line and how it affects individuals in the community.  They may not have faced a lot of hardships in life, but one can discern an understanding of those less privileged in the community from the answer.

Susan Peterson

I would ask the City Manager where he or she grew up, what they liked about it, and what they didn’t like.  While no single question can illuminate the best candidate, this question would give great insight into the values the person formed early in life, and the values they might seek to instill in our Town.

Larry Quilling

What are the top five goals and accomplishments this year for each of the city department heads and how do they fit into the plans of our council and boards?  How will they be measured and in what timeframe will they be completed?
Focus and accountability must be connected between the elected, appointed and city staff to achieve true representative governance.

Tom Riley

Do you think that you will become a puppet? Do you think that you have the mental sensibilities to protect that for which we are hiring you for? It is expected that anyone awarded this position have the highest ethical and moral standards. It will be your job to hold yourself accountable to Boulder. In no way can you sell short the needs of Boulder. This does not mean that you will make decisions based upon a squeaky wheel. It is expected that you become the most informed individual when negotiating contracts. And should you feel as if you are unable to be the most informed you should call upon whatever authority necessary to make the most informed practical and prudent decisions  for Boulder’s future. We have high standards for environmental concerns, business concerns. But most importantly, you shall never forget that the citizens of Boulder will hold you accountable to Boulder.

Eric Rutherford

My question to the candidate would be this – would you ensure that ever person in the City government will do his/her job, accept responsibility and account that the money they spend is valued as much as their own salaries.  There must to be measured goals and consequences based on clear job descriptions.

Let’s bring the ROI associated with top businesses worldwide to help Boulder work better.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

How long have you lived in Boulder? I think that any time you ask this question you will find out why a person is acting. whether it be for love, money, or some agenda, this question will give me (if elected) an idea of the person that is going to represent the city at the ground level. it will also ring a level of authority when they make decisions that are (implied by council)

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

How long have you wanted to live in Boulder?

What this question would illuminate to me is; Is this a person who is interested in serving this community, and maintaining what makes Boulder great? or is this a person simply looking for a job? It's of immense importance for a City Manager, (and city attorney which the next council will be hiring for that matter) to have a vested interest in the best interest of the City of Boulder, is someone is simply looking at the job as a stepping stone to a better job, then they are likely to make decisions to impress a "future" employer. I want a City Manager that wants to be a a part of Boulder.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

"What do you see as your role in relationship to the City Council?"

This illuminates the character of the candidate. It shows whether he or she wants to run the show, or understands him/herself as part of the team in relationship to the elected councilmembers. The council is accountable to the people, and the manager is accountable to the council, and in that way, the people have a significant say in what happens in their town. A manager should be managerially competent, but should not think him/herself to be the mayor. (no reflection on current manager intended).

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

How you as a City Manager bring forth your disagreement with the City Council?

I would use this question to measure the integrity, personal strength, pursuavsiveness, ability to articulate position and forward looking and big picture approach. 

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Question 5: CU South campus plan

Our next question is from Richard Hockett

What is your opinion of the proposed CU South campus plan? Do you support building on this site. If the city can acquire the land would you (a) want to see the area remain openspace or (b) would you want affordable high density housing built?

Philip Hernandez

First, we need to recognize that this is CU property and the university will do want it wants.  Given that, my preference is that part of the land be used for wind and/or solar energy.  The remaining land would be utilized for recreational ball fields, soccor fields, bike trails and remaining in its natural state.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

It is really unfair me to even answer this one because my back yard borders the CU open space.  I am opposed to any building there because it is wetlands (and was once a gravel pit) and it is also in the floodplain (or was until it was said that the magical "berm" would keep it dry).  It is also the gateway to Boulder.  It was only because of a mistake on past city council's part that the land was not acquired as Boulder open space.  Why not swap CU for other land and keep it as it is with hiking trails and wild life. 
Would I want affordable high density housing built - ablsolutely NOT.  That would ruin the first view that visitors have of Boulder. 

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

this was a conversation that a bunch of us had at the bmoca event that many of us attended. i fought tooth and toe nail against the tennis court project. the best way to avoid flood plain issues at cu south is to keep it as open space. we need people on city council who understand sovereignty issues. i worked for tribal government and have hand on understanding about sovereignty. i know about the 'diplomacy' which is necessary in dealing with state and national governments.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

I have the distinction of having voted three times against proposals to build on the CU-South campus.  It is not good for students and it is not good for the community.  I would like to see the area remain open space.  I share this opinion with CU Regent Cindy Carlisle and CU Regent Candidate Joseph Neguse who also opposed any development on the property.  If the city could engage in a land swap with the university I would propose it being a swap for space perhaps in the transit village area.  We need to do what is congruent with that neighborhood and consider what is in the best interest of the collective community – students and permanent residents.

Susan Peterson

I am not a fan of more population growth in Boulder, either at the University or in the town.  Thus, if the City could acquire the land, I would want to see the area remain OpenSpace, and I would seek other ways to add affordable housing inventory from existing housing stock.

Larry Quilling

I believe Boulder and Boulder County made a mistake by not purchasing the site when the opportunity was available. The South Campus property is in the flood plain the existing earthen dam that surrounds the property will simply push flood waters onto to open space and other private properties. We should work with CU to find alternative "trade" sites for their growth and limit South Campus development.

Tom Riley

It is a horrible idea. No longer should we allow CU to impose upon our infrastructure. In no way will I ever support building on this site. I feel strongly that given that riparian plants are indigenous to this area and that cannot be replaced, that in no way will I ever support building on this site. I propose that we withhold any connection to sewer or water connections to CU at this site. In exchange for water connections and sewer connections I would support that this space be committed to open space and that CU be permitted to build any perceived structures on its already large enough main campus including family housing.

Eric Rutherford

The South Campus is an Area Two, meaning it can be used for residential development, and I would not dismiss out of hand the idea of building there.  Our need for affordable housing is so great that this could provide an excellent solution.   There are only three Area Twos that can be developed – we need an emphasis on quality not quantity to help ease the burden on our communityy members needing housing support.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

Again the 3 part question. 1 No I do not support building on this land. It doesn't make sense for transportation(buses) the surrounding communities (the new Hill) or the city. I would want to see the area remain open space. affordable housing poses the same problems as building with the university does if not worse.

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

Of course high density housing would not be the best and highest use of CU south. IF any development happens there it must be remembered the serious flood plain issues there. This issue will require working with CU, and the County. Co-operation, rather than antagonism is the best way to ensure a positive outcome for all parties. Perhaps a land exchange is possible, but there are few people in the city who don't want to preserve our gateway as open space, and working with the university I suspect they would generally feel the same, co-operation with this state entity is the best way to find a positive outcome.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

I am not aware of an plan for south campus that is intended to start any time soon. It certainly fits the bill for an open space area, defining the boundary of town. Affordable housing, is a priority for me, though, so I would have to consider carefully the merits of a specific proposal. It would have to offer a very great deal of "community benefit" to be worth sacrificing the open space buffer at the entrance to town on 36.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Question 4: Your top issue

If you say you have 10 top issues, that is the same as saying you have no top issue.

What is the number 1 issue you will concentrate on as a council member? Why this specific issue? What will you try to accomplish on this issue?

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

I would focus on basic service needs for the City.  The Council needs to spend time in addressing basic needs.  This is important to regain the confidence of the voters who may be dissatisfied with the handling of parks and recreation, police, etc. issues, i.e. the Frazier Meadow pond, more police presence in our neighborhoods and downtown.  We can't ignore other areas like the Climate Action Plan and other environmental concerns, but I think the best way to deal with those is to create an advisory group who would decide how best to address the issues and spend tax dollars.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

I am concerned about the future economic vitality of Boulder.  The Blue Ribbon report states that there is concern for future tax revenues.  The baby boomers (of which I am one) and the lack of their slowing down their spending is listed as being one of the major factors.  I know first hand that there is age discrimination in the work place and that if this continues it will throw the future of these "once great spenders" into being off kilter.  So I think that the issue of facing the problem of the "boomers" and their employment (how about giving businesses incentives to hire older workers and also bridge the generation gap and have those who have experience).  Boulder needs to recognize that the citizens are getting older and we need to really think about what this is going to mean and then address the problems head one.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

i think the top issue that transcends all has to do with those that help folks get along better. if we want to be more engaging in disenfranchised communities. i can make that happen. we need a balanced economy that expands opportunities for all, not just to those who are already here and have 'made it.' there are plenty of new folks in town who drive the economy and they deserve to make a go of it too.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

If absolutely limited in scope I would exclusively concentrate on the human services in the community – specifically finding increased funding for the non-profit community.  They are most adept at finding the best market based solutions for the issues facing Boulder and are also the most efficient consumers of resources in the community.  We can tackle a whole host of issues by taking the approach of finding and expanding the support of the non-profit and human services community.  We can highlight them on the city website – send information through the communication apparatus of the city and ultimately tackle the issue that Boulderites give much less per capta than people in other communities of similar size and affluence.  We need to ensure that we provide the best opportunities to our citizens with the lowest overhead.  Supporting the non-profit community will achieve this goal – even the affordable housing quandary.

Susan Peterson

If you could see the range of question that have been posed to candidates as a part of this campaign, you would seriously doubt whether any council member will have the luxury of focusing on just ten issues, much less one.

That being said, the first issue I would focus on is improving Council and Staff efficiency and responsiveness.  The impression that I get in talking with the various constituencies around Boulder is that the citizens of our town feel under-represented by our current staff and council.  Evidence of this problem includes the extremely divisive outcome of the process to develop the Washington School property, and the continued disagreements about the appropriate use of Open Space. My approach to rectifying this situation would be to challenge staff to include more formalized citizen input resulting in more consensus building before decisions ever reach the council or board level.  I will also challenge council to more actively manage staff, and to set a clear vision for Boulder against which expedient decisions can be more readily made.

The reason I choose this issue, is that it will impact our effectiveness to make progress against all of the other issues we tackle.  I will know that we are making progress when more disagreements getting solved at the community and commission level, and when we have fewer completely polarized issues on the Council agenda – which will free us up to move onto focusing on the important issues that will impact future generations.

Larry Quilling

I am running as Larry The Water Guy.  We must give our watershed the same policy priorities as we do our Open Space and Climate Action Plans.  The Boulder Watershed is in trouble an needs our help:

• Restore flows in our creeks & rivers through cooperative diversion delays and water trades
• Increase our storage capacities
• Promote conservation
• Monitor our watershed water quality
• Find solutions to bio med wastes that morph our fish into bi-sex mutants

Tom Riley

Identity. I feel strongly that government, especially the idealistic Boulder government should strive to hear Boulder’s voice. Boulder’s voice should be one of diversity and every individual voice must be made to be heard.

By organizing our neighborhoods into districts if you will, made up of no more than 5,000 citizens, we will be able to educate and make aware everyone who is interested in being heard.

It would take very little money to fund such a program. The members of the board of each group, say 20 people, could get by on $5,000 a year. This would far exceed even the results of the misguided $100,000 survey sent out to 3,000 of Boulder’s residents.

I feel that an informed citizenry will help hold Boulder’s city government accountable to Boulder.

Eric Rutherford

As a City Council member I will take the very noble Environmental Action Plan and get all the commercial real estate and apartment building owners together to implement this crucial plan to help prevent the devastation on continued and increasing global warming.  As a member of this business group, I am in a unique position to help drive this imperative effort.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

Wow 3 parts. issue economic health. the city can only provide the level of service that we all enjoy with a sound economy. I want to make sure that we can continue to support the business of the city drains (you probably know of one that is clogged, roads, open spaces, recreation, the arts all of these are provided for by the economy and our business base. I want to simplify government so that the cost of doing business in Boulder is lower and that more businesses will consider locating here. a year and 1/2 is too long for your permits to be a green contractor in Boulder. (real gripe from citizen)

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

Economic vitality. The reason this is paramount for me is that we must find more reliable ways that are also legal with the State constitution to finance our suite of municipal services. This is also important to ensure that we can maintain a vibrant and diverse community. Economic and ethnic diversity frequently go hand and hand so if we are serious about maintaining a diverse community we need to have opportunities for people to work, be self-sufficient and full members of our community. Open space, police, fire, libraries, and social sustainability are all tied into our economy, the national situation isn't getting better, we need to act locally.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

My answer to this question is the same as the biggest issue facing Boulder, the increasing fragmentation of our community into the wealthy and the poor, with all the social and environmental problems that entails. (see Question #2)

Question 3: Recreation vs conservation on Open Space

This question is from Julianne McCabe (our champion question suggester)

Do you think there is conflict between recreation groups and conservationists regarding OS management?  Whether you answer yes or no, please explain.  If you think there is a conflict, what do you recommend the City should do to help resolve it?

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

Clearly there is conflict between some individuals in recreation groups and some conservationists regarding OS management. However, I do not think that recreation and conservation interests must inherently conflict. In fact, I think they depend on one another. Without protection and care, the land can offer no enjoyment. But if we cannot enjoy it, we lose the opportunity to form a personal relationship with the land that inspires our commitment to protect it. Boulder Open Space and Mountain parks define Boulder for many residents, whether we enjoy it just by living in our beautiful mountain setting, or by getting out there on the trails. As hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers, preservationists, or just occasional strollers, most of us share a common goal; to be able to enjoy these precious natural areas we have deliberately set aside, while preserving them for the future. How to achieve that balance is somewhat trickier, with increasing numbers of visitors, particularly from outside the city. The Visitor Master Plan attempts to balance input from various interested groups to arrive at an effective management strategy. I support implementing the strategies outlined in that plan.

This is going to require leadership and trust building among the people who are presently embroiled in the conflict, but I think that reasonable and effective solutions can be reached.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

Yes, to be honest there may be no reconciliation between conservation and recreation groups.  The city will have to decide what, in my opinion, we value more.  My opinion is we error on the side of conservation.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

Yes, there is a conflict and I have heard from voters who say they will not vote for open space because they are not going to get their way.  This is not good for anyone involved and will mean that future  potential open space could be developed instead of remaining undeveloped.  I think the city should look at opening up more trails because people should be able to enjoy the beauty that is Boulder (and take their dogs with them).  However, I would propose that there should be  a few more guidelines put in place to make certain that visitors (particularly those from out of town) do not put the land in danger (such as starting a fire or endangering wildlife).

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

Did not participate.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

No I think that the conflict is often a matter of perception and rooted in a system that forces a false dichotomy between these values.  City open space lands should be managed so that human uses are as compatible as possible with habitat and wildlife values.  I would like to see a comprehensive inventory of all trail maintenance needs.  Before any new trails are approved, I would like the opportunity to determine if we can meet the need to ensure that our current system is environmentally sound.  This project should ensure that we can meet these needs in a timely fashion with current staffing levels.  We must put this as the top priority while recognizing that yesterday’s $1 problem has already become today’s $100 problem may very well become tomorrow’s $1,000 problem in terms of habitat restoration due to improper trail construction or maintenance.  My general philosophy of my appreciation of public lands will guide me when we get down to the nitty gritty details and in resolving conflicting demands.  When I visit our open spaces I know that I am entering a wonderful habitat and I am there to commune with nature – not to conquer it.  When I recreate I want to ensure that the habitat that I am entering is one that allows me to experience a wild space.  There are some areas that must be off limits for this to occur so that wildlife has their space and some areas that I am able to enjoy the presence of other beings.

Susan Peterson

I think that if you ask most Boulder-ites where they would put themselves, on a scale from 1-10 (with 1 being 100% preservation and 10 being 100% recreation), they would say somewhere in the 4-6 range.  The idea that everyone in town is totally polarized between recreation and preservation does not serve us well, particularly when there is so much that both sides of the issue have in common.  My impression is that the constituent groups I have spoken with feel under-represented and un-welcome to participate in our OSMP direction and management, and that in the absence of information or participation, they assume the worst case scenario.  My suggestion to resolve conflicting demands would be to formalize input from the constituent groups on a quarterly basis, so that people felt vested in the process and well informed.  And by the way, in case you were wondering…I would put myself at a 3 or 4 on the “preservation” side of the scale.

Larry Quilling

The Open Space & Mountain Parks Department is the steward of our open space lands. With that designation comes an important responsibility to weigh the goals of conservation, protection and restoration against the public right and desire to enjoy our open space. This requires an openness to hear concerns from the public while also communicating the basis for limiting access. The responsibility for stewardship demands greater responsibility for openness and leadership than any other city department. There is conflict between conservation and recreation groups and I believe our Open Space & Mountain Parks Department must be the ones who strike a balance between usage interests.

Tom Riley

Yes and no. I think that the perceived conflict is almost disingenuous. This is evidenced by the varying interest groups recommending/endorsing the same candidates. I think this almost false conflict allows the varying groups to continue to have a more heard voice than they might have separately. I applaud these groups for their working together. However, at this time I think the city of Boulder has acquired almost 90% of the open space it should. We should work diligently at acquiring this last 10 %. It cost $35 an acre to manage open space but over $3,000 an acre to acquire it. At this time I think it would be prudent for us as a caring people to reevaluate our priorities. When dedicated sales taxes sunset in the next 5-10 years we should approach Boulder’s citizens and ask them for their approval to support non-profits and other services that support the disenfranchised.

Eric Rutherford

No.  This contentious issue has more or less been solved.  The issue remaining is the 10 percent of the Open Space that is most heavily utilized, ie. Chautauqua Park and Mt. Sanitas.  We must

We must have communication between the recreation groups and the conservationists about this 10 percent of the Open Space and seek common ground.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

Yes. I think of Goldie locks ( some think it is too hot others to cold) we need to preserve areas where we can and stop fussing about areas that have been greatly effected by the actions of the community. i.e mountain bikes, dogs, (people) should be allowed on areas of high use and areas that are lower recreation areas should be maintained. I would also like to see more utilization of our open space for renewable energy. the wind blows the same in open space in the east. we could utilize this land for preservation (farming) and energy creation.

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

The conflict is not resolved and finding the most equitable solution will be vital to ensuring the public continues to support open space at the ballot. Finding this balance will involve an ongoing dialogue with open space users, and appointing a BALANCED open space board of trustees to ensure that decisions made about implementation of the open space visitor master plan are based on sound science, as opposed to political whim. The best way to forward the values of conservation is exposure to open spaces. It is vital that the public has enough access to open space so that they value the cost and are understanding of conservation closures. Further we must ensure we can adequately maintain our open space lands, this needs to be a higher priority

Question 2: The biggest Issue facing Boulder

What is the single biggest issue facing Boulder over the next 10 years? Why is this the most critical issue? And how will you try to address this issue?

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

The biggest issue facing the City of Boulder's government is revenue shortfalls. This might not be the most important issue to particular individuals but the role of government is to provide services for the community, primarily public safety, and not being able to afford even current levels of service is the most important challenge to address. The solutions include, creating efficiency in the delivery of service, and yes some cutting in programs. But also finding ways to generate more revenues like investment in the arts, tourism, and economic vitality, that provide a net return on investment. To maintain the high level of services Boulder residents have come to expect, we will need to work both locally and regionally to ensure we can continue to pay for them.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

The biggest issue facing Boulder right now is the increasing fragmentation of our community into the wealthy and the poor, with all the social and environmental problems that entails. One of my goals on Council would be to strengthen our diverse community. For people with lower and middle incomes, it becomes increasingly difficult to afford rent, much less a mortgage in Boulder. And there are few places within city limits to buy inexpensive jeans for kids who will grow out of them in a year.

As the wealthier population grows and the middle class declines we have an increasing barbell distribution of income groups which is neither environmentally nor socially sustainable. With the loss of cohesiveness that a balanced diversity of income groups brings, we will see continued socio-economic and cultural fragmentation, intolerance, and polarity. As a councilmember, I would look to reverse this trend by addressing the lack of retail and housing options for these groups which is a primary obstacle to social sustainability.

How we handle this difficult question in the next several years will speak to our fundamental values as a community. Every option we have to preserve existing or create new affordable retail and housing comes at a cost, but so does failure to act. Right now there are a lot of people thinking about and working on this in different ways, but we lack a unifying vision and strong leadership. I would prioritize hiring an innovative Planning Director who can bring the parties to the table and bring forward a renewed commitment to move forward toward our common goals as a community.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

The biggest issue facing Boulder over the next 10 years will be the projected revenue shortfall which will manifest itself in a relatively short time. 

The city will have to make decisions between funding basic services (police, fire, sewer, streets, parks, libraries, etc.) and the demand for more open space and recreational programs.

The city has historically relied on sales tax to pay for its programs.  Query, would an additional increase in sales tax place our business community at a disadvantage in competing with surrounding communities.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

I think the biggest issue facing Boulder is the rampant growth and development which threatens the very essence of Boulder.  Generations that came before us realized the danger of growth and how it would ruin Boulder and put in place the blue line, the Danish Plan, and height restrictions to keep at least a measure of control.  Had they not done that I would not have been able to grow up in an incredible town.  As I always say, I owe them a debt of gratitude. I have talked with a great many people and 90% of them are against all the development that is taking place.  In fact that is one of the reasons I am running for city council. As to what I would do to addres this issue, I think there should be a difference made between those who want to add on to their homes due to a family growing and those who are only motivated by profit.  Boulder will grow but we need smart growth and need to keep our perspective.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

getting folks to get along. i have the ability to work with people from all ideologies. i'm not beholden to special interests and have a track record of being able to find what people have in common and unite them around those assets. this is an approach that can be applied to just about any issue - dogs on open space or not. prairie dogs or not, conference center or not or where. etc.

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

The biggest issue that is facing the community in the next 10 years is planning to ensure that Boulder remains affordable for the retiring population and for young professionals.  I look at the permanently affordable housing program ad the first step on a ladder of home ownership.  For many people, the house is their greatest single asset.  Allowing people to build equity for the first time through home ownership and getting out of the entrapment that is renting is a major step along the housing continuum.  After permanently affordable I would hope that an individual could purchase a market rate condo and then perhaps one day a market rate house.  This progression to market housing requires that Boulder ensures that it maintains a variety of housing stock.  In terms of moderate income households the city needs to be proactive in addressing the issue of scrape-offs because a family of moderate means simply cannot afford a 6000 square foot house.  We must find solutions that regulate the excessive size of newer homes in Boulder so that they remain affordable and don’t wildly drive up the home prices of neighboring homes so that people can enter the market rate housing.  New homes should be limited in size to some extent using a market based approach that increases city revenue.  An luxury tax or fee structure could be implemented to make it progressively more expensive to build a house above 2000 square feet for instance and the money be made available to increase the amount of affordable housing stock available in the city.

Susan Peterson

I think that the biggest issue facing Boulder is ensuring that we don’t “love it to death”.  I’m concerned that in our rush to embrace somebody else’s picture of prosperity, and in our fear of being different, we might inadvertently undo the hard work of previous generations who had the courage to make unique choices and to limit our growth.

Larry Quilling

The most important issue facing Boulder over the next ten years in city and regional growth.  Boulder is fortunate to have a good jobs base and we need to to continue to build our economic vitality by attracting quality employers to our community.  I believe firmly we need to plan for the regional growth by competing for economic resources regionally and to plan for the resulting transportation infrastructure.  We cannot hide behind high density plans for everyone.  We must plan for the commuting nature of those who choose to live outside our community and commute to Boulder. 

Not everyone wants to live in the Transit Village, with little parking and right next to busy railroad tracks.  We need to plan for better timed traffic lights, staggered employer work shifts and improvements to our major traffic corridors.

Tom Riley

Identity. Boulder’s identity has become schizophrenic. We have too many different interests and desires and a complete lack of communication and agreement. This is the most critical issue because continued disagreement will get in the way of our creating a vibrant and cohesive community. Our schisms continue to create false problems and arguments and differences of thought that allow others to take advantage of our uninformed citizens. I propose that a portion of property taxes collected from neighborhoods goes to create neighborhood associations. These groups would be made up of up to say 5,000 citizens. A very little amount of money would be required to organize these citizen groups to hold Boulder accountable to Boulder. The disenfranchised, the voices we never hear because they do not present in a way that our current city government whose inclination is to govern by busybody, could become organized and informed and could present a unified voice to city government to hold counsel accountable to Boulder’s average citizen.

Eric Rutherford

One third of Boulder’s sales tax rate will start to expire by 2001.   In addition, a large part of retail business has moved out of the City.  50 percent of our revenue comes from sales tax.

The bottom line is that we need to attract the right type of businesses that fit with our valued culture and will help fund the services and programs that make Boulder so special and unique.

Just as you have a mortgage or lease for your house and you need a salary to pay for it, the City needs income to pay its bills.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

economic vitality(sunsetting taxes)... jobs creation(simple government)...business retention... oh yeah accessible government that is down to Earth, realistic, and driven by the desire to do good for the community

Question 1: Height Restrictions

Welcome to the Online Debate. Our first question is from Brownie Marshall

What is your position on maintaining the height restrictions in Boulder, particularly in the downtown area and areas that would impede the mountain view. Are there any conditions that would prompt you to make an exception?

Matt Appelbaum

Did not participate.

Philip Bradley

Height restrictions are important and I support them full heartedly.
However I think back to the new mall days when Boulder said No to a 3'
variance for an air conditioning unit that was shot down resulting in part to our economic downturn, and I think that was un-necessary to get after them and ultimately hurt the city more than giving a variance on a building that backs onto industrial space.

Seth Brigham

Did not participate.

Shawn Coleman

Preservation of the mountain back drop is what gives Boulder it's sense of place. The preservation of height limits is important as not only a quality of life issue, but also an economic tool. That said, it is important to realize that this ordinance is not without consequence, i.e. the high cost or real estate. Any exceptions would need to meet a significant community goal. At this moment I can't think of what that benefit would be. I am not anti-growth, the issue is the growth making Boulder better. If there is a project worthy of consideration than it should be considered in it's context, but I don't think anybody in Boulder is in a rush to have skyscrapers as far as the eye can see I for one am not.

Macon Cowles

Did not participate.

Angelique Espinoza

The height restrictions in Boulder have done a very important job in preserving both views and access to the sun's solar energy that can be captured by rooftop panels. In the downtown areas, in particular, it will be important to maintain these restrictions. We are facing a real crisis, however in affordable housing, which may require us to consider the possibility of adapting these restrictions in certain areas, perhaps on the east end of town. Another consideration would be to look at form-based zoning as a way to preserve light and openness in certain areas. Denver has had some success with this strategy and I think it is worth looking into.

Crystal Gray

Arrived late

Andrew Harrison

Did not participate.

Philip Hernandez

In general, there is no area in the area west of Folsom where it would be appropriate to go above the 55 height limitation.  The only exception might be if the decision to build a convention/conference center in the downtown area, but I would want to fully explore the pluses and minuses of this exception.

Areas east of Folsom might be appropriate.  For example, the diagonal plaza if it is developed or in the transit village area if a trade off between higher heights and more greenbelt area would make sense.

Nabil Karkamaz

Did not participate.

Kathryn Kramer

My position would be to definitely maintain the height restrictions.  As someone who grew up in Boulder I remember when the height restrictions were put in place to curb developers who had their eye on building skyscrapers.   We have a beautiful mountain backdrop that is one of the things that draw people to Boulder. This backdrop would be ruined by tall buildings (and has been ruined already in some instances).  I recently visited the offices of our "mother company" in Beverly Hills and although the office building was state-of-the art and very impressive, it did not have the mountain views that some office buildings in Boulder afford.  That mountain backdrop is one of the reasons that draws businesses here and in fact is notated as one of the "perks" that all those in my company who have had to re-locate to Boulder have mentioned as a reason to really love it here despite the fact that they had to give up the ocean.  Are there any conditions that would prompt me to make an exception.  If I am on council I would be open to reviewing any exceptions.  The problem with exceptions, however, is that once an exception is made, other entities want an exception made for them as well.

Adam Massey

Did not participate.

Lisa Morzel

Did not participate.

Alan O'Hashi

I’m at the dems congressional debate. I’ll be trying to webcast it while answering. I agree with the 65 ft requirement downtown, but think there are possible exceptions that could happen in the east side of town, particularly by where the existing dorms are built

Susan Osborne

Did not participate.

Eugene Pearson

In terms of the height restrictions I am in favor of them in the downtown area and in general west of 28th.  I think that there may be opportunities for going above the restrictions in areas like the transit village that do not impede the views of anyone in the community currently.  I am looking for a high level of mixed use development and would consider sending a ballot initiative on to the voters to exceed the height limits in this area if the percentage of affordable housing required could be correspondingly increased.  The intent would be to mitigate some to the affordability issues and sprawl that Boulder is inducing in neighboring communities and outside the county.  The area should address some of the shortcomings we face currently in the city.  It is a perfect location to increase the percentage of affordable housing available as well because it allows for transit options that benefit low and middle income people. 

Susan Peterson

I cannot think of any conditions that would prompt me to make an exception to the current height restrictions.

Larry Quilling

I believe the Boulder height restrictions are one of the most important aspects of preserving our city from the plight of “New Ubanism”.   Our restrictions are reasonable and fairly administered across all commercial and private interests.  I cannot think of any exceptions I would support at this time.

Tom Riley

Generally speaking, I support the 55 foot height restrictions. I think Boulder has an obligation to protect the mountain views. That said, I can see that a variety of skyline in terms of architecture may add to our mountain views. Frank Lloyd Wright is a prime example of how we as intelligent and creative people, may build structures that add to our surroundings. I think height restrictions should be afforded variances when it makes sense and should be presented to Boulder’s voters for such variances. We should always keep in mind that these buildings are all but permanent and a 55’ restriction variances should not be taken lightly. All due diligence and due process should be followed.

Eric Rutherford

Respect thy neighbor on a case by case basis.  And more weight should be given to the accommodation of growing families rather than developers creating gigantic spec homes.

One exception that should be raised is the fact that commercial real estate brings in 3x more property tax than residential development and those taxes fuel our schools, so we should focus on a case by case basis on what is best for our overall community.

Rob Smoke

Did not participate.

Ken Wilson

Did not participate.

Tonight's Online Debate

Welcome to Boulder's first online debate and thank you candidates for participating. And welcome and thank you to everyone viewing this. We're trying something new here and the participating candidates deserve a big thank you for trying this.

The structure of this debate is designed to allow all to "talk" at the same time while keeping with the debate framework where they are given the question and must answer immediately and in a limited time frame. Here's how it will work:

1. The first question will be posted at 7:00 pm.
2. A question is emailed to all the candidates and posted to this blog.
   1. Therefore, you will first see just the question and then about 5 minutes later, if you refresh your browser, you will see the candidate answers added, and the next question.
3. Each candidate must respond within 5 minutes, answering on their own, and in under 300 words.
4. Answers are emailed to me and I then add all of the answers to the question at the same time and post that to the blog. So every candidate answers before seeing the answers of the other candidates.
5. The next question is emailed/posted.

Some questions came from suggestions posted to this blog. Others are questions I came up with. There are a total of 11 questions. Selecting which questions was difficult. I tried to find the 11 questions that best fit the format of this debate (can be read and answered in 5 minutes and 300 words), were of a wide interest, and would provide new information on the candidates. There were about 20 questions that fit those criteria and picking from those was painful.

All candidates except Adam Massey originally agreed to participate in this debate. For those that subsequently dropped out, I invite you to contact them as to why.

If you have comments about the debate in general, please post them to this entry. I would like feedback on how good it was, what could be done better, etc.

If you have comments on any specific question, please post them in the comments for that question. And thank you everyone for watching the debate.