Patty Calhoun, Editor-in-chief of Westword, and Deep Singh Badhesha, a savvy lobbyist and campaign consultant, dive into the intricacies of Denver's pressing ballot measures. They tackle topics like proposed tax increases for healthcare and affordable housing, exploring their implications for the community. The conversation touches on the controversial slaughterhouse ban and collective bargaining rights for city employees, while also predicting how these measures might shape Denver's political future and reflect the city's priorities.
Denver voters will decide on a dozen ballot measures, including a significant sales tax increase for affordable housing amidst rising living costs.
The Healing Denver Campaign proposes funding for vital health services, sparking debate over the hospital's role in housing assistance and healthcare.
A proposed expansion of collective bargaining rights for city employees indicates a growing consensus on labor rights within Denver's local government.
Deep dives
Denver's Untitled Artist Takeover Event
An upcoming event at the Denver Art Museum, the Untitled Artist Takeover, features Slam Nuba, a renowned collective of artists known for their slam poetry. Scheduled for October 25th from 6 to 10 p.m., the event is included with general admission and free for members, promoting an evening of interactive fun. The event not only showcases local talent but also aims to engage the community in the arts, creating opportunities for cultural enrichment. This presentation of local artistry highlights the museum's commitment to being a dynamic space for both visitors and residents.
Understanding Denver's Election Ballot
With less than two weeks until election day, the focus shifts to understanding Denver's lengthy ballot, which includes twelve critical ballot questions. The discussion takes place against a backdrop of a live event hosted at Town Hall Collaborative, where experts break down the various measures voters will decide on, from sales tax increases to regulatory changes. Engaging the community through this live analysis allows voters to grasp the implications of their choices and enhances informed decision-making. This effort reflects a broader initiative to increase voter awareness and participation in local governance.
Examining the Healing Denver Campaign
One key initiative on the ballot is the Healing Denver Campaign, proposing a 0.34% sales tax increase to fund Denver Health, which serves as a crucial safety net hospital for the city. Advocates argue that the additional funding, expected to generate around $70 million annually, is vital for maintaining and expanding services essential to underserved populations. Opponents, however, raise concerns about the hospital's expanding role in providing housing assistance alongside healthcare and question the appropriateness of such responsibilities for a healthcare institution. This debate highlights the intertwined issues of healthcare funding and broader social service needs within the community.
Debate on Affordable Housing in Denver
Another major ballot issue concerns a proposed 0.5% sales tax aimed at funding affordable housing initiatives, projected to raise $100 million annually for the next 40 years. Discussions revolve around whether local voters can be persuaded to embrace this tax, especially in light of rising costs for everyday services such as sidewalk repairs and trash collection. Skepticism exists among voters who have become weary of continuous tax hikes without clearly defined benefits. The outcome of this measure will reflect not just attitudes toward affordable housing, but also the level of trust Denverites have in their local leadership.
Shifts in Collective Bargaining Rights
A proposed measure on the ballot seeks to expand collective bargaining rights to more city employees, currently limited to police and firefighters. Supporters, including city council members and labor organizers, advocate for fair working conditions and improved wages. The notable lack of organized opposition suggests a growing consensus among city leaders that broadening rights for city employees is a necessary step. This initiative appears to be a response to a broader trend of increased unionization and collective action within various industries across the country.
There’s less than two weeks until Election Day, and Denverites have been tasked with deciding a dozen measures and amendments. So if you’re dragging your feet to fill out your ballot, don’t worry — we’re here to help! Last week in front of a sold-out crowd at Town Hall Collaborative, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi were joined by Westword editor-in-chief Patty Calhoun and political consultant Deep Singh Badhesha to discuss the biggest issues facing Mile High voters. From collective bargaining for city employees to the proposed fur ban, we dug into the ballot, made some predictions, and talked about what the outcomes could say about Denver’s future and our priorities.
Paul mentioned our episode with Denver Health CEO Donna Lynne in which she made the case for a “yes” on Ballot Question 2Q, as well as this article from the New York Times by Ted Genoways about undocumented workers in the meat industry. Mayor Mike Johnston was on the show yesterday advocating for Ballot Question 2R, his sales tax hike to fund affordable housing.
What do you think about all these ballot questions? We want to hear your hot takes, questions, or last-minute arguments for or against! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418