AKAD's Political Guide 2025

Tuesday, November 4, is Election Day! Advocacy and Politics are important here at AKAD, so for the third year in a row, we wanted to share this guide with you to learn more about the candidates running this year in Pueblo and the different ballot initiatives there are. Below, you can find interviews with some of the candidates in Pueblo and A Kindness A Day's endorsements for each race. Remember to VOTE!

Head To Each Race:

Pueblo City Council At-Large Race (Vote for Two):

We asked each at-large candidate the same 4 questions:

1. What are the top three priorities you would focus on during your first year in office if elected to the Pueblo City Council?

2. In what ways will you ensure that young people in Pueblo have a voice in the decisions being made?

3. How will you incorporate kindness and empathy into your approach to city leadership?

4. Describe an ethical dilemma you've faced. How did you resolve it?

Tom Croshal & Regina Maestri did not respond to our questionnaire.

Candidate Interviews:

Brett Boston:

1. "My top priorities are public safety, economic growth, and expanding community amenities. I will focus on public safety by working to expand our DICE and Impact teams, seek grant funding for neighborhood camera programs, and strengthen partnerships between city/county law enforcement and the community. I will also push for programs that support victims of crime while holding offenders accountable. On economic development, I'll begin discussions with PURA, PEDCO, and local businesses to streamline processes for new development, reduce red tape, and set clear goals for housing growth and business expansion. Finally, I'll launch an amenities initiative that builds on Pueblo's strengths, starting with expanding events at the Riverwalk and pursuing opportunities that attract visitors, boost tourism, and create more reasons for families to enjoy our city. By taking immediate, measurable steps in these areas, we will set the tone for a council that listens, acts, and delivers for Pueblo quickly."
2. "As the youngest person to hold my position, I know how important it is to involve younger voices in shaping Pueblo's future. I want to inspire young leaders to "Be Involved" by showing them their voices matter and that they can make a difference in local politics right now, not years from now when they are older. I will create more opportunities for youth to be involved in local government to for example, to serve on boards and commissions, learn how the city functions, and participate in learning our roles as City Councilors. I will also seek their input on issues that affect their lives, and we make changes that affect Pueblo's future."
3. "Leadership is not just about policy; it is about representing the people in everything you do. I will always listen first and consider how decisions impact our neighbors, families, and businesses. Empathy means understanding challenges like affordability, safety, and opportunity from the perspective of those living them. By approaching every issue with respect and compassion, while still making tough decisions, I will ensure Pueblo's government leads with both strength and heart."
4. "One ethical challenge I faced was during the fight against problem hotels that were harming businesses and neighborhoods. As a business owner directly impacted, I had to balance my personal stake with my responsibility to represent the whole community fairly. I resolved it by being transparent about my involvement, focusing on facts, and working with the city to make decisions that served all of Pueblo. The outcome improved safety, fairness, and accountability citywide."

1. "1. Bringing leadership to the council to reset and level set expectations for the council that will support building a team culture, accountability, and responsibility for members of the council to support building relationships with the council and rebuilding relationships with the community. 2. Bringing my expertise as a mental health clinician to address the root causes of issues impacting Pueblo, such as public safety, housing, economic development, and addressing the city's budget concerns. 3. Celebrating Pueblo for its strengths."
   
2. "The consequences have become far to high when our voices are not heard or at the table. An observable pattern of members of the council invalidating public opinion and disenfranchising participation has caused immense harm to the prosperity of Pueblo. I have been there and so have many of you! Pueblo deserves leaders who represent all of us. Pueblo deserves leaders who will listen to our collective voice and encourage inclusive participation at the decision-making table. I will offer an opportunity for young people to participate in conversations regarding the impact of how proposed policies being presented to the council for a vote will impact their lives before they are going to be voted on. I understand that the people are the best experts in their own lives and it is their voice we need to hear! I will also work to invest in our future leaders by hosting opportunities for school aged youth to young adults to feel empowered in the space of their government by inviting them to meet and become familiar with their representative, engage in activities that help bridge knowledge and understanding of the importance of civic process and involvement and serve as a mentor to build the next generation of leaders."
3. "This election represents the perfect opportunity for the council to reset and level set. I accept that even though we may not agree on all issues, I will engage my colleagues on the council with respect, openness, and with a spirit of service. I have already worked on breaking the ice and building relationships with members of council who will remain seated and those who are seeking to be elected. I have expressed to them how excited I am to be on their team. I will work to foster a team culture for our council. By working to develop this rapport now and moving past the election with a spirit of kindness and empathy, my hope is that it will open a path to building rapport and dialogue that will support building cooperation to support the common objective of working to best serve our citizens of Pueblo. As we begin to reset and level set a new council, the time is now to work to develop accountability standards that bring clarity to the expectations of behavior for members who represent Pueblo on the council. As we commit to working to uphold the highest standards of behavior for this office, I will challenge my colleagues to be mindful of the consequences of accountability. When behaviors misalign with our common objective to serve the best interest of Pueblo with kindness, empathy, wisdom and compassion I will take responsibility to have constructive con ersations with my colleagues on the council and support identifying ownership and finding a positive path to move forward and resolving the issue with a sense of humility, transparency and honesty that works to set the example how decisions for government needed to be founded in kindness directed at members of our community."
4. "My mother comes from a family of 16 brothers and sisters. After about a year of my mother and aunts tried to support caring for my eldest aunt, who is 82 years old. Unfortunately, the outcome was the best solution for managing her care needs was to place her in a long-term care facility. On September 7th, another one of my aunts passed away unexpectedly. There was a conversation over whether or not to tell my aunt, who lived in the nursing home, that her sister had passed away, and who would do it. After much discernment, I encouraged my mother and my sister to consider the pros/cons and reality of what meets the moment about presenting this information to my aunt. The ethical dilemma at hand was that the facts were that my aunt was still her own decision maker. So, no one really had any control over who would deliver this information or not, or when. I felt it was important to advocate for my aunt as she deserved to know about her sister's passing and make a decision as to what steps she wanted to take to respond to the news of her sister's passing. Ultimately, my family and I supported making a visit to the facility and advising the staff what had happened, and enlisted their support in doing what was necessary to provide this information to my aunt and collaborating to execute her wish to safely attend her sister's funeral. Ethical dilemmas challenge our courage, ask us to reflect on our values, and be wise in doing the right thing with integrity. That is the case in what happened here in this very difficult time."

Nathan Harper:

1. "My top 3 priorities I will be focusing on are: • Addressing the City budget shortfalls, and coming up with options that will help fix the ongoing issues, without negatively impacting our community with regressive taxes such as taxes on groceries. • Working to address the root causes of crime, such as food insecurity, lack of stable housing, and inability to access mental health resources. Right now, we have multiple food deserts in our community, and face a critical shortage of mental health resources. • Finding solutions to the lack of affordable child care for families in our community. I support the proposition of a city-county childcare center, and am open to other solutions to ensure families in our community have safe, affordable options."
2. "Young people are our future, and I believe strongly in ensuring they have a voice in the direction our community will go. Engaging young people in the civic process is essential, and their voices can bring fresh perspectives to the work the City Council does. Many younger people in our community feel as though they are forced to move out of Pueblo either to obtain education or career opportunities, and we should be working to keep this young talent in our communities. I believe it is very important to bring younger voices into the conversation as we work to increase opportunities for young people."
3. "Kindness and Empathy are integral parts of my personality, and I bring those qualities to everything I do. I work well with people and can relate to people from all walks of life. I believe different perspectives are essential to building a strong community. The political rhetoric recently has become so heated and so divided, it feels as though some people have forgotten that we all belong to one community. I am committed to working with people, no matter their political views, and having conversations with community members to address issues we all have in common. All people deserve dignity, empathy, and respect."
4. "I have faced many ethical dilemmas throughout my life. I have a very strong moral compass, and I approach all decisions through that lens. I hold myself to a high standard of professionalism and strive in all areas to be transparent, accountable, and ethical."

Colleen Grahek-Clark:

1. "Organizing and linking services for the house while investigating causes and finding solutions for long-term housing employment, treatment, and counseling services"
2. "Focus on creating a safe and clean environment for the youth of our community to thrive. Develop a youth council/committee that would work closely with city Council members in regards to issues that affect our youth in the future, as well as their needs. Push for more community centers that offer after-school care and a weekend place for them to go."
3. "Kindness and empathy have been lost in our society today; however, I believe kindness and empathy are part of our human nature. They just need to be reawakened by showing unity and crossing the political boundaries for the betterment of the community. Show leadership by listening and caring truly about what the community has to say, and involve the council by participating in community activities. And perhaps we need to institute a "share the kindness week" where community and leadership are encouraged to share an active kindness, such as more of the neighbor's grass, preparing meals for the unhoused, donating money, or material items."
4. "We are faced with ethical dilemmas daily when we see someone on the street in need of resources. It takes but a minute to buy food or offer them information on services. This should be a natural response for us all. Unfortunately, many choose to turn away. I will always offer something when we are faced daily with simple tasks, responding to the needs of fellow community members housed or unhoused, opening the department door for someone unable to, or help someone who has tripped and fallen, offer to help carry groceries, or reach for something that someone cannot reach. If I see someone who does not have enough money to pay for the groceries, I will pay for them. The list of ethical behaviors ranges from holding the hand of someone in a car wreck while awaiting emergency response to the simple helping of an elderly person to unload groceries to letting a car merge from the on-ramp, but we have to understand that humankind needs to be both human and kind. We are all on this earth for such a short time; simple kindness could change the world as we know it. It is not a complicated recipe, just one that we all need to learn."

Evans Auden Gonzalez Garcia:

1. "My first priority is making sure Pueblo's small businesses and working families have the support they need to grow. I built Super Market Gonzalez from the ground up with my own savings, and I know how hard it is when resources and opportunities aren't easily available. I want to fight for micro-loans, training, and city programs that put Pueblo money back into Pueblo-owned businesses instead of sending it to outside corporations. Second, I will focus on our youth and their future. That means creating a Pueblo Youth Advisory Board that works not only with the City Council but also has a seat with PEDCO so young people can see how tax dollars, from their families and even their own purchases, are invested into roads, sidewalks, parks, and community projects. At the same time, I want to build a "Big Brother, Big Sister" style program, where business owners, leaders, and neighbors mentor our youth, guiding them toward opportunity and success. Third, we need to take care of our homeless population with compassion. Too many people are left on the streets without support. Housing must be paired with counseling, addiction recovery services, and job training. If we don't address the root causes, we'll never break the cycle. I believe every person deserves dignity, and helping them get back on their feet makes Pueblo stronger for everyone."
2. "Young people are the future of Pueblo, and their voices need to be heard. I will create a Pueblo Youth Advisory Board that connects directly with the City Council and PEDCO. This way, youth will learn where their community's money is being spent and have real input on how investments are made in their neighborhoods. They should be part of deciding how their tax dollars are returned into parks, streets, sidewalks, and programs they use every day. Beyond that, I want to make mentorship a cornerstone of my approach, a citywide effort similar to a "Big Brother, Big Sister" program, where leaders, business owners, and neighbors step up to mentor youth. It's not just about giving them a seat at the table; it's about walking beside them and preparing them to lead Pueblo into the future."
3. "Kindness and empathy aren't just words to me; they're how I run my life and my business. Every day at Super Market Gonzalez, I meet people from all walks of life. Some are celebrating, some are struggling, but every single one deserves dignity and respect. I carry that into everything I do. As a city leader, kindness means listening first, making space for others, and treating people's struggles as if they were my own. Empathy means pairing policies with compassion, whether it's housing the homeless with counseling support, mentoring youth so they feel seen and valued, or making sure small businesses get the same shot at growth as big corporations. Pueblo needs leaders who care enough to act, and that's exactly the kind of leadership I'll bring."
4. "One of the hardest dilemmas I've faced as a business owner and community advocate is deciding whether to stay quiet when I see unfairness or to speak up and risk retaliation. I've learned that standing up for what's right sometimes makes things harder; you lose support, you get pushed back against, but silence only allows injustice to keep repeating. I chose to stand my ground. I spoke out for fairness even when it wasn't easy, because I'd rather take the hits than let the next small business owner or the next neighbor go through the same struggle without a voice. I resolved it by choosing courage over comfort, and that's the same spirit I'll bring to Pueblo City Council."

AKAD Endorsements for Pueblo City Council - At-Large: Selena Ruiz-Gomez & Nathan Harper

Pueblo City Council District 1 Race:

We asked each District 1 candidate the same 4 questions:

1. What are the top three priorities you would focus on during your first year in office if elected to Pueblo City Council?

2. In what ways will you ensure that young people in Pueblo have a voice in the decisions being made?

3. How will you incorporate kindness and empathy into your approach to city leadership?

4. Describe an ethical dilemma you've faced. How did you resolve it?

Elvis Martinez:

1. "My top 3 priorities are to focus on our Budget, Blight, and Infrastructure. A collaboration will need to take place on all three. The budget's main priority is public safety for the community. Lowering blight will improve neighborhoods and lower the crime rate. Infrastructure is working with public works on identifying where the older pipes are so they can be replaced with up-to-date pipes that will last, and fixing our sidewalks. An honorable priority is a great working relationship with the mayor and other council members."
2. "I would love to create a youth council that works with the city council to hear their ideas and bring items to the agenda. Similar to the Mayor's youth council. The youth are the future leaders of Pueblo."
3. "Kindness is a factor for leadership and treating others as you would like to be treated. Respectful disagreement is ok, but never to insult them, because of their beliefs or ideas. We all think differently. I would also add that I would hold town halls and city department town halls to hear directly from those who keep our city running 24/7."
4. "I can't say that I have experienced an Ethical Dilemma."

Dianne Danti:

1. "A. Address homelessness B. Policing inefficiencies C. Repair neighborhood streets"
2. "I will have town halls to listen to the residents, both young and old, to voice their priorities. I would try to recruit young residents to city boards and commissions."
3. "I would listen to the residents and deliver results on their priorities. I would not look down on anyone who wants to participate in our city government, no matter what the question is. Although, I would contact them later to explain the issue in a one-on-one situation."
4. "Being asked to do something that was not ethical by my boss. Basically, said I would not do it, and if that meant I had to resign, then I would resign."

Kassidy Hall:

1. "* My first priority will be getting my arms around the process and procedure for the city. I am sure that there is much to know. But I have developed prior relationships with members of the city government that will be very beneficial in gaining knowledge. But always. . . always, like with my campaign, I have enjoyed talking to people, hearing the things they like about our city, and the concerns they have. We all want safety and civility. I will start there. * I plan to hold quarterly meetings with my district and to stay connected to the business community that is vital not only in this district but for Pueblo as a whole. Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economic structure, and staying in contact with those business owners will be important. * It is a wish of mine that our children, the youth of this community, know and understand civic responsibility and what part individuals play in the fabric of our communities. I am sure there are fun ways for us to incorporate that into a learning program that rewards outstanding achievement in that area. Along with the ability to have freedom of speech comes a responsibility to participate in the process civilly. We have forgotten how to talk to one another and how to listen. We need to find programs that teach respect and civic involvement."
2. "First and foremost, I feel that we as a council need to set up more public forums. At the council meeting, speakers are limited to a certain number. I understand the need for that, but many people have felt unheard and unseen. Perhaps just citizen open mic days for Q&A twice a month might give them more opportunities to be involved."
3. "I think leadership sets the pace for how we address one another. I have watched how voices in the public square get raised in an effort to be heard. We have to set the example of compassion and truly listen to understand, not just listen to answer. The world is growing more and more hostile, and we need to be the adults in the room. We have standards and need to live up to them."
4. "As a licensed financial strategist and representative, I need to make sure that whenever I talk to my clients and work with them,  they understand the process, products, and strategy behind our methods of wealth accumulation. I have in the past worked with families that are divorcing, and a spouse who wanted to hide assets from the other. I cannot be party to that. I did sit down with the client and calmly explained that during the course of their marriage, they trusted me to give them my best advice and counsel. I took an oath that I would do that. After a long discussion, the client agreed that not only would it be a disadvantage to the children of the marriage, but it would put me in a position of having to be less than honest and damage a relationship I had felt we had built. We solved by recalling the good things that came from that union - the children, the intertwined families, and how keeping that kind of secret would stain everyone. I understand the client was hurt. But I feel like we reached a breakthrough at that moment. It was emotional but ultimately worth the triumph."

Tiffany Estrada:

1. "My top three priorities that I would like to focus on are professional development, public safety, and quality of life."
2. "I will work with the youth groups in Pueblo and see what their needs and passions are. I would like to ensure the youth have a voice since they are the future of this community. As a mother of a teenager, it's important to listen and advocate for their needs."
3. "It is important to use kindness and empathy in everyday situations. Whether it is in my day-to-day life or in city leadership, it is important to have that respect for not only your community but for yourself as well."
4. "I cannot think of an ethical dilemma that I've faced. It is important to always do the right thing and have that conscience in the workplace and in life."

AKAD Endorsement for Pueblo City Council - District 1:
Tiffany Estrada or Dianne Danti

"A Kindness A Day is proud to endorse a vote for Tiffany Estrada or Dianne Danti for Pueblo City Council District 1. Both candidates bring valuable experience, commitment, and compassion to the table. We believe either would serve Pueblo with integrity and genuine dedication to improving our community for everyone. We encourage you to learn more about each candidate, their priorities, and their vision for Pueblo before casting your vote."

~ Devin Klock, AKAD Founder

Pueblo City Council District 3 Race:

We asked each District 3 candidate the same 4 questions:

1. What are the top three priorities you would focus on during your first year in office if elected to the Pueblo City Council?

2. In what ways will you ensure that young people in Pueblo have a voice in the decisions being made?

3. How will you incorporate kindness and empathy into your approach to city leadership?

4. Describe an ethical dilemma you've faced. How did you resolve it?

Ted Hernandez did not respond to our questionnaire.

Joseph Perko:

1. "Beginning with the upcoming meeting on October 20th, I will become directly involved with the budgeting process for the city, as a lack of information among council members is the primary cause of so much disagreement right now. I will then, beginning with a meeting I am hosting as of the night of this letter being sent, host regular town hall meetings at a public location within my district so that constituents may come and have a public forum to address grievances and concerns. Depending on whether a mayor prevails or a city manager takes office, I will begin to communicate with them on prioritizing and allocating finances to non-profit organizations throughout the city."
2. "I want to reach out more to organizations such as this to find engaged local youths who can help inspire their peers to see the importance of politics and get them involved more as well."
3. "Kindness and empathy to me are the most important qualities for a candidate to have these days. The issues I see come from a lack of trust, and it is up to each of us individually to show trust to others first to restore order in our day."

AKAD Endorsement for Pueblo City Council - District 3: Joseph Perko

Pueblo Civil Service Commission:

We asked each Civil Service Commission candidate the same 4 questions:

1. What are the top three priorities you would focus on during your first year in office if elected to the Civil Service Commission?

2. How will you ensure that Pueblo's civil service hiring and promotion processes remain fair, transparent, and accountable to the public?

3. How will you incorporate kindness and empathy into your approach to public service and decision-making on the Commission?

4. Describe an ethical dilemma you've faced. How did you resolve it?

Steven Rodriguez did not respond to our questionnaire. 

Erick Javaneau:

1. "My three key goals are as follows: A) create and distribute to all people filing an appeal with the Commission a fact sheet explaining the process and their burden of proof. As well as the criteria we are required to follow in our decision-making. This is to even out the playing field, as there is a city attorney present at the appeal hearing. B- institute l/formalize a formal request for a hearing for those filing an appeal. Now left solely to the discretion of a majority of the commissioners. C- not only to maintain the existing transparency and fairness of the recruiting l/ hiring process, but to further expand the recruitment process."
2. "Transparency and fairness are built into the process via notice of and recording of commissioners' hearings and the petition for records for discoverable documents from the City Clerk. Additionally, I have always made myself available for questions. That being said, I plan to petition a specific period for public comment and hope to have adopted a form for written comment and questions."
3. "Either you have or don't have kindness and empathy, or you don't. The best I can do is to try to put into practice the above-suggested reforms."
4. "As to ethical issues, they arise every time we decide on an appeal. As to those that arose when I worked as an attorney, I have been terminated for not agreeing to follow actions which I viewed as unethical by the law firm I worked at."

AKAD Endorsement for Civil Service Commission: Erick Javaneau

Pueblo Board of Water Works Race (Vote for Two):

We asked each Board of Water Works candidate the same 4 questions:

1. What are the top three priorities you would focus on during your first year in office if elected to the Board of Water Works?

2. What role do you think the Board should play in educating the community about water use and conservation?

3. How do you plan to include kindness and empathy in your leadership style as a BOWW member?

4. Describe an ethical dilemma you've faced. How did you resolve it?

Michael Cafasso, Chris Woodka, & Dave DeCenzo did not respond to our questionnaire.

Philip Reynolds:

1. "The biggest issues facing Pueblo Water currently are working with the City of Pueblo to maintain and improve the Waterworks Park on the Arkansas River in town. Also, it is working on a lead pipe problem for many older homes in Pueblo. Pueblo Water can pursue federal grants to help with the issue of replacing these problematic water lines. Pueblo Water is looking at enlarging and making improvements at Clear Creek Reservoir. This entails coordinating with many Federal and State agencies and takes a long time. This is an area I have many years of experience, having when I was Project Manager for SECWCD. There, I worked with Federal legislators and lobbyists to obtain legislation and funding for the Arkansas Valley Conduit. Finally, BWWP is working to handle and protect the Bessemer Ditch water rights that it has obtained. I have experience in water rights operations and protection during my time working for the Division of Water Resources. Finally, BWWB needs to keep its maintenance of the water delivery system going strong. This will entail proper budgeting and cost control. Two items that I have handled throughout my career, especially as a CFO."
2. "I believe the Board should be out front providing water education to the citizens of Pueblo. Water is a very complicated resource that is vital to our community. In my years working in the Water Industry, I have given many classes, presentations, and tours on water as a resource throughout the Arkansas River Basin. There are many opportunities for the Board to engage in water education. The State Fair is a great venue for outreach as well as many civic outreaches during the year."
3. "Ways to include kindness and empathy in leadership are to take time to listen to the employees who so valiantly serve at the Water Works and make sure they are treated fairly when the contract comes up for renewal. As a Board Member, it is important to give each Board member the attention and respect they are entitled to when they speak and \or give their input at the monthly meetings and during work sessions."
4. "An ethical dilemma I faced when I was a coach for a youth soccer team was that a parent was being very aggressive about their child getting more playing time. Instead of caving to the parents' pressure, I sat down and talked with the parents about their position. By taking time to engage with them in a calm, quiet manner, I was able to get them to understand how youth sports are more about learning, exercising, and self-confidence than about getting more playing time. I explained that all the kids had a right to time to play and improve themselves in a positive manner."

AKAD Endorsements for Board of Water Works: Mike Cafasso & Chris Woodka

Pueblo School District 60 Race (Vote for Two):

We asked each school board candidate the same 5 questions:

1. What are the top three priorities you would focus on during your first year in office if elected to the D60 Board of Education?

2. How will you ensure that the perspectives of teachers and students are meaningfully included in decision-making at the district level?

3. What steps will you take to strengthen and expand opportunities in Career and Technical Education (CTE), as well as arts programs like choir, theatre, and band?

4. How will you work to foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive school environment where every student and family feels valued?

5. Describe an ethical dilemma you've faced. How did you resolve it?

Lucretia Robinson, Daniel McHenry & Derion Ibarra did not respond to our questionnaire.

Tommy Farrell:

1. "My top three priorities in my first year (and every year) on the D60 Board of Education would be: • Student Success and Achievement - Focusing on improving academic outcomes by supporting evidence-based instruction, expanding access to early literacy and math interventions, and ensuring every student has the tools they need to thrive. • Safe and Supportive Schools - Strengthening school climate so every student, family, and staff member feels welcomed, respected, and safe. This includes investing in mental health support, addressing bullying, and creating inclusive learning environments. • Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency - Ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and in ways that directly benefit students. I will advocate for transparent budgeting, efficient use of resources, and strong community engagement in financial decision-making."
2. "I believe that the voices of teachers and students must be at the center of decision-making. To ensure this, I would: • Strengthen teacher input by continuing to work closely with the Pueblo Education Association. The union represents the collective voice of our teachers, and I value the role they play in advocating for classroom needs. I will support regular collaboration between the Board and PEA leadership so teachers are truly part of the decision-making process. • Elevate student voices by supporting the creation of a student advisory council to the Board, expanding leadership opportunities, and actively seeking student feedback on issues that affect their learning and school experience. • Build a culture of collaboration where teachers, students, families, and staff all feel heard and respected. Decisions are strongest when they are shaped by those closest to the classroom. By working alongside the Pueblo Education Association and creating formal channels for student input, we can ensure decisions are not made for teachers and students, but with them."
3. "I believe that CTE and the arts are essential to preparing students for success in school, in careers, and in life. Too often, these programs are treated as extras, but they are central to keeping students engaged and building real-world skills. To strengthen and expand these opportunities, I will: • Advocate for investment in CTE pathways by partnering with local businesses, higher education, and workforce leaders, as well as expanding apprenticeships with local unions. These partnerships provide students with hands-on training, industry-recognized skills, and direct connections to good-paying careers. • Protect and grow arts programs such as choir, theatre, and band by ensuring they are valued in budget priorities, supporting access across all schools, and celebrating student performances as key parts of the school experience. • Pursue equitable access so that every student, regardless of which school they attend, has the chance to participate in high-quality CTE and arts opportunities. By investing in both CTE and the arts, we can give students more ways to discover their passions, connect to their community, and prepare for their futures."
4. "Creating safe, supportive, and inclusive schools is at the heart of why I am running for the Board of Education. Every student and family deserves to know they belong in our schools. I will prioritize policies and training that give educators the tools to build positive school climates, address bullying, and support students' mental health. Expanding access to social-emotional learning and mental health resources will ensure students not only succeed academically but also feel seen and supported as individuals. I will also work to strengthen equity and inclusion by uplifting diverse voices, including LGBTQ+ students, English language learners, and students with disabilities, and by fostering strong partnerships with families so they feel welcomed and respected in every school."
5. "During my time on the Pueblo School District 60 Board of Education, we faced the difficult decision of whether to outsource food service. On one hand, I strongly believe that public dollars should stay in our schools and support district employees. On the other hand, our food service program was struggling, and we needed to ensure students had consistent access to quality, nutritious meals. I worked closely with the union representing our food service employees to make sure their needs and priorities were heard and reflected in the contract negotiations. I also took time to meet with families and stakeholders, evaluate the realities of the program, and carefully weigh the options in front of us. While outsourcing was not my first choice, I made the best decision I could in that moment with the information we had, while also holding the new company accountable for following through on its promises. For me, the ethical responsibility was twofold: protecting the dignity and voices of our employees while never losing sight of the ultimate priority, our students' access to healthy meals."

Rae Carnavale:

1. "My top priorities would be investing in mental health and social-emotional support for students and staff, ensuring that our schools are places where everyone can thrive academically and emotionally. I also want to focus on recruiting, retaining, and supporting highly qualified teachers by providing competitive compensation, professional development, and a supportive work environment. Another priority is bringing a student representative to the board to ensure that student voices are part of decision-making, helping the board stay connected to the experiences and needs of those it serves."
2. "I believe decisions are strongest when they are informed by those most directly affected. I will create regular opportunities for student and teacher voices to be heard through advisory councils, open forums, and surveys so that their feedback directly informs policies and initiatives. Collaboration and transparency will be key."
3. "I will advocate for increased funding, staffing, and community partnerships to expand both CTE and arts programs. These programs are critical for developing a wide range of skills and ensuring students can pursue diverse career paths and creative passions. I want to make sure that every student, regardless of background, has equitable access to these opportunities."
4. "Safety and inclusivity are foundational to learning. I will support policies that prioritize anti-bullying initiatives, mental health services, and culturally responsive practices. Partnering with families, teachers, and community organizations will ensure every student and family feels welcomed and respected in our schools."
5. "As a clinician and community advocate, I have often faced situations where multiple stakeholders have competing needs. One example was navigating confidentiality concerns while supporting a family in crisis. I resolved this by following ethical guidelines, engaging in open communication, and prioritizing the client's best interests while keeping all parties informed appropriately. This approach reinforced trust and ethical accountability in a complex situation."

AKAD Endorsements for Pueblo School District 60 School Board: Tommy Farrell & Rae Carnavale

Ballot Initiatives:

Statewide:

Proposition LL, Allow State to Retain Revenue From Proposition FF Measure

Information from Ballotpedia:

"Without raising taxes, may the state keep and spend all revenue generated by the 2022 voter-approved state tax deduction limits on individuals with incomes of $300,000 or more and maintain these deduction limits in order to continue funding the Healthy School Meals for All program, which pays for public schools to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students in kindergarten through twelfth grade?"

A "yes" vote supports allowing the state to retain and spend tax revenue collected above the $100,727,820 annual estimate for Proposition FF and continuing to dedicate revenue to the Healthy School Meals for All Program.

A "no" vote opposes allowing the state to retain and spend revenue collected above initial estimates for the Healthy School Meals for All Program created by Proposition FF, thereby requiring the state to refund $12.4 million to taxpayers.

AKAD endorses a YES vote for ballot measure Proposition LL, Allow State to Retain Revenue From Proposition FF Measure

Proposition MM, Tax Deductions and Revenue for School Meals Measure

Information from Ballotpedia:

"Shall state taxes be increased by $95 million annually by a change to the Colorado revised statutes to support access to healthy food for Colorado kids and families, including the Healthy School Meals for All Program, and, in connection therewith, increasing state taxable income only for individuals who have a federal taxable income of $300,000 or more by limiting itemized or standard state income tax deductions to $1,000 for single tax return filers and $2,000 for joint tax return filers for the purposes of fully funding the healthy school meals for all program to continue paying for public schools to offer free breakfast and lunch to all public school students while also increasing wages for employees who prepare and serve school meals, helping schools use basic, nutritious ingredients instead of processed products, and ensuring that Colorado grown and raised products are part of school meals; supporting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that helps low-income Colorado families afford groceries; and allowing the state to retain and spend as a voter-approved revenue change all additional tax revenue generated by these tax deduction changes?"

A "yes" vote supports lowering the state income tax deduction limits for taxpayers earning $300,000 or more from $12,000 to $1,000 for single filers and from $16,000 to $2,000 for joint filers, generating an additional $95 million annually for the Healthy School Meals for All Program.

A "no" vote opposes lowering state income tax deduction limits to provide an additional $95 million annually Healthy School Meals for All Program, thereby leaving in place the current limits of $12,000 for single filers and $16,000 for joint filers.

AKAD endorses a YES vote for ballot measure Proposition MM, Tax Deductions and Revenue for School Meals Measure

Local:

Question 2A - City of Pueblo Sales and Use Tax Increase for the General Fund

"Shall the City of Pueblo sales and use tax be increased an estimated $26,142,985.56 annually in the first fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2026, and by such amounts as are raised annually thereafter, by an increase in the city's sales and use tax rate from 3.7% to 4.7%, by adopting Ordinance no. 11000, and such additional 1% in sales and use tax revenue to be collected, retained, and spent as a voter approved revenue change notwithstanding any revenue or expenditure limit contained within Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution, or any other law?"

AKAD is neutral for ballot measure Question 2A - City of Pueblo Sales and Use Tax Increase for the General Fund

Question 2B - Extension of the One-Half cent Sales Tax for Economic Development

"Without raising additional taxes, shall the existing one-half percent city sales and use tax rate for economic development be extended for a five-year period from its current expiration of December 31, 2026 through December 31, 2031 by adopting ordinance no. 11001, and the revenues therefrom to be spent together with all investment income thereon as a voter-approved revenue change and an exception to the limits which would otherwise apply pursuant to Article x, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution or any other law, and by continuing to dedicate the revenues from the one-half percent sales and use tax rate for primary jobs, creating capital improvement projects within the city and the Pueblo Memorial Airport boundaries, creating a special fund for the deposit of such revenues, and by continuing to deposit revenues from the one-half percent sales and use tax rate into a special fund for the deposit of such revenues to be used consistent with the criteria established for use of such funds, and finding and determining that the expenditure of such revenues are public purposes and municipal functions?"

AKAD is neutral for ballot measure Question 2B - Extension of the One-Half cent Sales Tax for Economic Development

Question 2C - Change Form of Government to Council-Manager

"Shall the Charter of the City of Pueblo be amended to change the form of government from a Council-Mayor government to a Council-Manager government, and in connection therewith: requiring that the City Council - City Manager form of government not be changed except by Charter Convention upon majority vote of qualified voters; eliminating the office of City Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Chief of Staff and establishing the office of City Manager to be selected by City Council, in which all executive and administrative powers of the City shall be vested; giving City Council the power to appoint all City Boards and Commissions whose members will be limited to four-year terms; removing the prohibition against City Council interfering in the removal of members of City Boards and Commissions; recognizing the President of the City Council as head of City government for all ceremonial purposes and authorizing the President of the City Council to execute and authenticate legal documents as may be required; giving the City Council the right to enforce its own ordinances; giving City Council the power to appoint the City Clerk and Municipal Court Judges; allowing current and former members of the City Council to become City Manager or City Employees after the first year following the expiration of their terms of office; authorizing City Council to direct the City Attorney to institute lawsuits; allowing the functions of the Department of Aviation be determined by Resolution; mandating that the City Council - City Manager form of government take effect immediately upon approval of this Charter Amendment by the registered Electors of the City of Pueblo and providing that the City Council shall appoint an Interim City Manager?"

AKAD endorses a NO vote for ballot measure Question 2C - Change Form of Government to Council-Manager

Question 2D - Require Binding Interest Arbitration instead of vote of the people for the other Classified Employee Bargaining Unit

"Shall the Charter of the City of Pueblo relating to collective bargaining for the other classified employees bargaining unit be amended to require all unresolved issues relating to wages and other terms and conditions of employment be decided by binding arbitration instead of by vote of the qualified electors of the City of Pueblo, and to provide that the arbitrator shall choose either the final offer of the City or the final offer of the Employee Bargaining Agent on each such issue?"

AKAD endorses a YES vote for ballot measure Question 2D - Require Binding Interest Arbitration instead of vote of the people for the other Classified Employee Bargaining Unit

Question 2E - Municipal Officer Salary Increase

"Shall Section 2-1 of the Charter of the City of Pueblo be amended to allow Municipal Officer salary increases take effect immediately?

AKAD endorses a NO vote for ballot measure Question 2E - Municipal Officer Salary Increase

Question 2F - Making it easier for City Employees to run for Public Office

"Shall Section 8-9 of the Charter of the City of Pueblo be amended to remove the requirement that city employees within the classified service must take a leave of absence in order to run for public office?"

AKAD endorses a YES vote for ballot measure Question 2F - Making it easier for City Employees to run for Public Office

Voter Information:

To be eligible to vote in Colorado, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen
• Be 18 years old or older by Election Day
• Live in Colorado at least 22 days before Election Day
• Not currently be serving a sentence for a felony conviction

It's important to know your voter rights and requirements before casting your ballot. Take time to confirm your registration, find your polling place, and review your options for mail-in or in-person voting. If you've recently moved, make sure you know the specific requirements for your new location, as your ballot may differ.

You can find everything you need to know about registering, voting by mail, or voting in person on trusted websites like Vote.org, Ballot Ready, and Go Vote Colorado. These resources provide accurate, up-to-date information to ensure your voice is heard.

Remember, you must turn in your ballots to a drop-off location or be in line to vote in person at a polling center by 7 P.M. on Election Day to have your vote counted.

Remember: you must turn in your ballot to a designated drop-off location or be in line to vote in person at a polling center by 7:00 P.M. on Election Day for your vote to count.

If you're under 18, you can still make a difference! Show your support for candidates, spread the word about the importance of voting, and visit Vote16USA to learn about the national campaign to lower the voting age to 16.

We hope this voting guide has provided valuable information and insight. You have a powerful perspective on how the decisions of elected leaders impact your community. Voting is how you support the leaders who share your vision for positive change, and hold accountable those who don't. Make sure your vote counts!

"The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all."

~ John F. Kennedy

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