Key Issues
Don’s Campaign Platform
Don: I promise to make Lakewood a better community. Here’s how:
ONE: I’ll improve safety and reduce crime.
Unfortunately, Lakewood is ranked as one of the least safe cities in Colorado, and our residents no longer feel safe in parts of town. The current administration is not supporting law enforcement to the extent needed to regain order and safety.
My plan to reduce crime includes:
Redirecting city budget resources to better support law enforcement
Supporting the hiring of many more law enforcement officers
Encouraging citizens to proactively support our men in blue to build morale
Stationing regular guards by our light rail stops to protect passengers
Partnering with private and public organizations on strategies or technologies that may help reduce theft
TWO: I’ll curb irresponsible development.
Lakewood citizens are concerned about the new high-rise residential buildings and have voiced their opinions that we need responsible – not reckless – development. A glut of high-density housing will degrade our small-town feel, increase congestion and potentially lower long-term property values.
My plan to make development more responsible includes:
Maintaining a high level of knowledge about developers’ future plans
Ensuring that developments have City Council approval and public support via public hearings that give citizens a voice
Supporting City Council in adopting new development restrictions
Collaborating with developers to ensure their projects fit the goals of our community, Lakewood’s Comprehensive Plan and its citizens’ wishes
Exploring work-arounds to Colorado’s HB 1255, which overturned Lakewood’s Strategic Growth Initiative
THREE: I’ll protect your rights.
Unfortunately, legislation often diminishes citizens’ constitutional rights and most people don’t even realize it. For example, Lakewood’s current administration supported legislation proposed by our governor that would’ve given the State first right of refusal to buy a homeowner’s property, then tear it down and build high-density affordable housing. This would’ve taken away homeowners’ rights to sell on their terms, would’ve negatively impacted neighborhoods and property values, and would’ve likely increased taxation to pay for the government’s affordable housing developments. Colorado also passed HB 1255, which effectively takes away the ‘home rule’ authority of home rule cities to control land within their jurisdiction. These are the issues I’ll fight for on behalf of citizens.
My plan to protect citizens’ rights includes:
Staying informed about state and federal issues that may impact Lakewood
Working with other municipal leaders to fight against future legislation like Colorado’s HB 1255, which negates the authority of home rule cities
Advocating for the defeat or modification of state legislation that reduces or eliminates residents’ rights
Fostering a positive relationship with Senators and the Colorado House of Representatives to ensure they consider how state issues impact Lakewood
Watch Heidi’s Interview
Heidi Ganahl, the former republican candidate for Colorado Governor in 2022, endorses Don for mayor. Watch the clips from Heidi’s interview to learn about Don’s perspectives on the top issues facing Lakewood and how he will address them.
Denver 7 News Interview
Watch the video or read the Denver 7 news interview on October 27th with Don Burkhart and the other mayoral candidates on key issues that are a top concern with Lakewood residents. Don takes a strong stance on irresponsible development and other issues. He has a more conservative vision for Lakewood.
