What Do Longmont City Council Candidates Propose at the Forum?

The Longmont City Council candidates recently engaged in a lively discussion covering sustainability, land use, and the impact of the Sundance Film Festival during a forum hosted at Left Hand Brewing Company. This event marked the first of three “Meet the Candidates” forums, allowing residents to gauge their perspectives ahead of the November elections.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Candidate Forum

• Ward 2 candidate Matthew Popkin emphasised the importance of council members engaging effectively with city staff.
• Candidate Teresa Simpkins highlighted the need for holistic sustainability that benefits both the environment and local businesses.
• At-large candidate Riegan Sage stressed the importance of rebuilding trust within the community and protecting land resources.
• The upcoming Sundance Film Festival in Boulder presents economic opportunities for Longmont.
• Further forums are scheduled to continue the dialogue with the community.

Overview of the Forum

The forum held on Thursday night featured Ward 2 candidates Matthew Popkin and Teresa Simpkins, alongside at-large candidate Riegan Sage. The session lasted approximately two hours, during which candidates addressed questions about the city's current and future needs. Organised by the School of Statesmanship, Stewardship and Service (SOSSAS), the event aimed to foster community engagement prior to the elections.

Matthew Popkin's Insights on City Council Responsibilities

Popkin, leveraging his experience on the Longmont City Council, discussed the significant time commitment required from council members. He underscored the importance of asking questions and actively engaging during meetings. “You can digest information, but it’s how you show up to those meetings that really matters,” Popkin stated, highlighting the role of city staff in navigating complex issues.

Impact of the Sundance Film Festival on Longmont

A notable topic raised by Popkin was the impending relocation of the Sundance Film Festival to Boulder. He expressed optimism about the potential economic benefits this could bring to the surrounding areas, suggesting that Longmont could play a supportive role. “That is an opportunity unlike, really, any other we have had in this region for generations,” he remarked. This sentiment captures the excitement surrounding the festival and its implications for local economies.

Teresa Simpkins on Comprehensive Sustainability

Simpkins shared insights from her extensive work with the city of Longmont and the town of Nederland. She articulated a vision of sustainability that encompasses not just environmental considerations but also the economic viability for businesses and residents across different income levels. “I take a really holistic look at what we mean when we talk about sustainability,” she explained, noting that this perspective influences her policy decisions.

Addressing Unfulfilled Plans

During her discussion, Simpkins acknowledged that there are still unfulfilled aspects of the Envision Longmont comprehensive plan, especially concerning redevelopment initiatives like the sugar factory buildings. “There are a lot of great ideas in there that we still have an opportunity to dig into,” she said, while also recognising the financial constraints that complicate these efforts. Her comments highlight the delicate balance between ambitious planning and practical limitations.

Riegan Sage's Vision for Community Trust

At-large candidate Riegan Sage, who has over 20 years of experience serving on nonprofit boards, emphasised the need for elected officials to honour their commitments. She pointed out that the city must do a better job of protecting land resources, such as conservation easements, which are vital to maintaining Longmont's character and environment. “We need to do a better job of earning the trust of people who live here,” she asserted, acknowledging that community trust has been eroded in recent years.

Building Community Connections

Sage also envisioned a Longmont where residents of all ages can interact and connect in person. “Get out from behind your screens and really connect with people, because the people here are amazing,” she encouraged. This call for community engagement underscores the candidates' recognition of the importance of fostering relationships among residents and enhancing the city's social fabric.

Upcoming Forums and Community Engagement Opportunities

The forum was part of a series of events designed to help Longmont residents make informed decisions before the elections. The next two forums will focus on at-large candidates and then mayoral candidates, scheduled for October 2 and October 16, respectively. Both events will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at Left Hand Brewing, located at 1265 Boston Ave.

Conclusion

The discussions at the forum highlighted the candidates' diverse perspectives on critical issues facing Longmont, from sustainability to community trust. As the city approaches the election, these forums serve as vital platforms for candidates to share their visions and for residents to engage in meaningful dialogue. The outcomes of these conversations could significantly shape the future of Longmont.

As Longmont prepares for the upcoming elections, one must consider how these candidates' policies and visions align with the community's needs. What role do you believe Longmont should play in supporting initiatives that enhance both local sustainability and economic growth? #LongmontElections #CommunityEngagement #Sustainability

FAQs

What topics were discussed at the Longmont City Council candidate forum?

The forum covered various topics, including sustainability, land use, and the economic impact of the Sundance Film Festival relocating to Boulder.

Who participated in the Longmont City Council forum?

Ward 2 candidates Matthew Popkin and Teresa Simpkins, along with at-large candidate Riegan Sage, participated in the forum.

When are the next candidate forums scheduled?

The next two candidate forums will be held on October 2 and October 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Left Hand Brewing.

What is the significance of the Sundance Film Festival moving to Boulder?

The move is expected to bring economic benefits to the surrounding areas, including Longmont, presenting unique opportunities for local businesses.

How did candidates address community trust issues during the forum?

Riegan Sage specifically highlighted the need to rebuild trust with residents and emphasised the importance of elected officials following through on their commitments.