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Navigate the Ballot: Pueblo Pro-Choice Nonpartisan Election Guide

*Note from leadership team: We are still updating and adding candidate endorsements*

Welcome to our Nonpartisan Informational Ballot Guide. We want to make it clear from the outset that we do not endorse any candidates. Instead, this guide serves as a valuable informational tool designed to help you learn more about all of the candidates, ballot measures, and state propositions. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed choices in the voting booth, free from partisan bias. We believe that an informed electorate is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy, and we’re here to provide you with the facts you need to be a well-informed voter.

Key Dates:

  • Monday, October 16: Ballots begin to be mailed out to voters. Ballot drop boxes begin to open.
  • Monday, October 30: Voter Service Centers begin to open. Last day to mail ballot back, if voting by mail. Last day to register to vote online & receive a ballot in the mail.
  • Tuesday, November 7: Election Day! Be in line by 7 pm at a Voter Service Center or drop off box.

Who Can Vote?

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 serving a sentence for a felony conviction can vote in the state of Colorado.

In 2019, many people in our state had their right to vote restored. 

Click Here for More Information.

We use scorecard numbers to rate candidates from 0 to 5, reflecting their alignment with our values. We stand for the human right to control one’s sexuality, gender, work, and reproduction. A score of 0 indicates the lowest alignment, while a 5 signifies strong support for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies, families, and communities.

Candidate Profiles:

Pueblo Board of  Water Works: 

6-Year term expiring 12.31.2029 

Celeste Arellano

Background: Celeste Arellano is a retired schoolteacher with experience as an auditor at the University of Colorado, particularly within the Colorado Department of Health and Safety. She also has a background in banking and lending.

Key Priorities:

  • Water Conservation: Celeste Arellano is passionate about water conservation. She aims to ensure the responsible use and conservation of water resources.
  • Mitigation of Waste: During her time at the Department of Health and Safety, Arellano was responsible for waste mitigation in various types of labs at the University of Colorado, including chemical, biological, and radiological waste. She seeks to continue efforts to prevent health risks associated with these materials.
  • Affordability of Water: Arellano is committed to keeping the price of water as low as possible for Pueblo residents.
  • Protection of Water Supply: She advocates for proactive measures to safeguard reservoirs and protect against potential contamination.
  • Endorsed By: 
  • Candidate Website: N/A 

Scorecard: 0

Sandy Gutierrez (write-in)

Background: Sandy Gutierrez has a background in both the Pueblo Latino Chamber of Commerce and currently works at Health Solutions. She has served on the Pueblo Board of Water Works for the past six years.

Key Priorities:

  • Protecting Water Resources: Gutierrez is passionate about protecting water resources and aims to continue the legacy of ensuring water resources for future generations, along with promoting economic development in Pueblo.
  • Ensuring Continuity on the Board: One of her goals is to ensure continuity on the water board, recognizing that water projects can take years to complete.
  • Delivering High-Quality Water: Gutierrez is committed to delivering the highest quality water at the lowest cost possible for ratepayers.
  • Building on a Strong Legacy: She wishes to maintain and build on the legacy of Pueblo’s nationally recognized water quality and the dedication of water board employees in ensuring water resources reach consumers.

Scorecard: 3

City Council District 4: 

4-Year term expiring 12.31.2027

Vicente Martinez Ortega

Background: Vicente Martinez Ortega, a community organizer with a degree from CSU Pueblo, He is running for reelection as district 4’s city councilor. 

Key Priorities:

  • Improving Council Responsiveness: Martinez Ortega aims to enhance the City Council’s responsiveness to community feedback. He plans to hold quarterly town halls in District 4 to update constituents on his work and listen to their concerns.
  • Continuing Northern Revitalization: He intends to continue the revitalization efforts for Northern Avenue, leveraging funding opportunities such as the Superfund Redevelopment Initiative and American Rescue Plan Act funds. His vision includes creating a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly corridor with thriving businesses.
  • Council Member Pay: Martinez Ortega made two unsuccessful attempts to raise council member pay, which has remained unchanged for over 25 years. While these measures failed, his commitment to fair compensation for council members remains a priority.
  • Passion for Representation: Martinez Ortega’s overarching goal is to represent the people effectively, and he expressed his passion for serving his district and addressing issues related to poverty. He believes that two years is not enough time to make a meaningful impact and seeks to continue his work.
  • Endorsed By: Southern Colorado Labor Council,
  • Candidate Website: N/A

Scorecard: 3

Roger Gomez

Background: Roger Gomez holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Med/Biology and an Associate of Arts degree in Criminology with a minor in Art. Furthermore, he has worked as  Adjunct Professor in Health Care Administration and Finance at Adams State University. He was District Director for the 3rd Congressional District, where he worked for Congressman Scott McInnis. He has held various roles within the law enforcement sector. He has served as a Psychiatric Technician at the Colorado State Home and Training School and a Mental Health Worker at St. Mary Corwin and he is  the owner and artist at Mural’s Unlimited, an investing partner at Union Trading Company, and the owner/operator of Steel City Dogs and More. He has served on various boards and commissions.

Key Priorities:

  • Public Safety: Gomez advocates for the implementation of community policing, addressing violent crime, and reducing noise pollution in the community.
  • Homelessness: He acknowledges the contributing factors to homelessness and supports initiatives like affordable housing and supportive services.
  • Blighted Neighborhoods: Gomez prioritizes the renovation or demolition of blighted properties and encourages new investments within his district.
  • Improper Drainage and Street Flooding: He intends to modernize drainage systems and storm sewers to mitigate street flooding issues in his district.
  • Poverty: Gomez recognizes poverty’s role in societal issues and proposes enforcing related laws while increasing job opportunities.
  • hi Economic Development: He seeks to attract funding and private investment, focusing on the revitalization of Historic Downtown Bessemer.

Scorecard: 0

City Council District 2: 

4-Year term expiring 12.31.2027

Joe Latino 

Background: Joe Latino has an extensive background in education and community development. He holds a BA in Secondary Education & Social Sciences from St. Micheal’s College in Santa Fe, NM (1968), an MA in Educational Admin & Supervision from Western NM University (1972), and an Educational Specialist Degree from UC Boulder (1980). He has served as a principal, educator, and coach, with the majority of his career in the Denver Metro area. Joe has also been involved in various community organizations.

Key Priorities:

  • Economic Development: Joe aims to address Pueblo’s economic challenges, crime issues, and crumbling infrastructure through his experience in community development and implementing effective solutions.
  • Taxation: Joe’s priority is to ensure the efficient use of tax revenue by supporting small businesses in Pueblo, fostering their growth, and increasing local employment opportunities.
  • Public Safety: Joe advocates for increasing the number of police officers on the ground and establishing more police substations in high-crime areas. He also has experience in setting up citizen-led crime watches to enhance safety.
  • Education: As a lifelong educator, Joe emphasizes the importance of cooperation between the city council, school board leaders, and Parks & Rec to introduce innovative programs for local youth. He believes in leveraging available resources and grants to create affordable after-school programs, sports, and activities for children.
  • Food Access and Ending Food Insecurity: Joe recognizes the issue of food insecurity in District 2 and aims to end it by addressing the lack of access to fresh produce and essential food items in the area. He emphasizes the need for collaboration with investors and locals to bring businesses and solutions to the neighborhood, ensuring residents have easier access to food.
  • Endorsed By: Del Olivas, Adam Paul, Steve Pineda, Ken O’Neal, Jim Bacino, Pueblo US Postal Workers #227
  • Candidate Website: https://www.joelatino.com/ 

Scorecard: 0

Tom Carrigan 

Background: Tom Carrigan is a Vietnam-era Air Force veteran from Oregon. He moved to Pueblo in 2015 with his late husband. He has experience with nonprofit organizations in Pueblo, including the Pueblo Art Guild, the Southern Colorado Equality Alliance, and the Pueblo chapter of Veterans of Foreign Wars. 

Key Priorities:

  • Community Engagement: Carrigan aims to facilitate open conversations and address issues like drugs, crime, gangs, food deserts, homelessness, and affordable housing through community engagement.
  • Accessibility and Accountability: Carrigan emphasizes responsiveness and a commitment to helping constituents when asked. His decision-making tools prioritize residents’ well-being.
  • Sensible, Accountable, Sustainable Solutions: Carrigan’s campaign will focus on delivering solutions to key issues such as crime, food insecurity, job opportunities, and housing in a sensible, accountable, and sustainable manner.
  • Respectful and Thoughtful Dialogue: Carrigan promotes respectful and thoughtful dialogue among community members, encouraging participation and collaboration in addressing district challenges.

Scorecard: 4

Gerald Pete Madrid  

Background: Gerald Pete Madrid has been a Pueblo resident for over 45 years, 

Key Priorities:

  • Crime Response: Gerald Pete Madrid aims to address the rising crime issue in Pueblo through proactive measures and community engagement.
  • Affordable Housing: He is committed to improving the availability of affordable housing, particularly on the city’s east side, to make it more accessible to residents.
  • Transparency and Accountability: Madrid advocates for a city council that prioritizes listening to its citizens and operates with transparency and accountability in its actions.
  • Endorsed By: 
  • Candidate Website: N/A

Scorecard: 1

Samuel Hernandez Jr.

Background: Samuel Hernandez Jr. is a small business owner and the proprietor of The Pork Chop Lady and Sam’s Street Tacos food truck. 

Key Priorities:

  • Crime Reduction: Hernandez’s top priority is to reduce crime in Pueblo through a stronger police presence and force to improve safety and hold criminals accountable.
  • Homelessness: Samuel Hernandez Jr. is committed to addressing the homelessness issue in Pueblo, seeking a compassionate yet effective solution.
  • Community Unity: Hernandez emphasizes the importance of community unity, with a focus on prioritizing Pueblo’s well-being over political divisions among city leadership.
  • Youth Programs: Hernandez aims to invest in Pueblo’s youth by providing more programs and funding to meet their needs and secure a better future for the city.

Scorecard: 0

City Council at Large: 

4-Year term expiring 12.31.2027

Mark Aliff

Background: Mark Aliff has a background as a former city councilor and currently works as a manager at the Vidmar Honda car dealership in Pueblo. He previously served on the council in 2017 and did not win re-election in 2021. Aliff also identifies as “very conservative” and is involved with Forging Pueblo, a local group that organizes on faith-based, conservative politics.

Key Priorities:

  • Safety: Aliff believes that the government should focus on its key function of keeping people safe, making it a top priority.
  • Homelessness: He aims to address homelessness by offering services to those who want help, including “bolstering transitional housing” and building a larger shelter if necessary. He also supports law enforcement enforcing ordinances on those who refuse services.
  • City Cleanliness: Aliff criticizes a $1 million initiative for employing homeless individuals to clean up trash and suggests requiring garbage service for Pueblo residents as a more focused approach to cleaning up the city.
  • Anti-Choice Stance: Aliff supports anti-abortion measures, particularly opposing “full-term abortions,” which he believes Pueblo should not be recognized for.

Scorecard: 0

Elvis Martinez 

Background: Elvis Martinez, a Pueblo native and East High School graduate, has been actively engaged in the community by regularly attending and speaking at Pueblo City Council meetings since 2018. He is known for sharing his opinions during the public forum sessions.

Key Priorities:

  • Public Safety: Martinez emphasizes the importance of addressing public safety concerns, including crime and security issues within the community.
  • Homelessness Solutions: Martinez supports the construction of pallet shelters and the renovation of Val U Stay Inn and Suites as measures to address homelessness in Pueblo.
  • Crime Deterrence: Martinez is open to supporting a city ordinance that holds perpetrators of shoplifting and package theft accountable.
  • Infrastructure Improvement: Martinez advocates for the repair and maintenance of sidewalks as essential transportation infrastructure for all residents. He suggests increased community involvement in identifying sidewalk repair needs.
  • Endorsed By: 
  • Candidate Website: N/A

Scorecard: 1

Brandon Martin 

Background: Brandon Martin is a graduate of Pueblo South High School, with a diverse professional background including roles as a Manager, Bartender, Home-Health Director, and Contractor-Worker for the City of Pueblo. He was raised by two Army veterans, one of whom continues to lead the community in law enforcement.

Key Priorities:

  • Public Safety: Brandon advocates for investing in the public safety apparatus to provide the necessary resources for the fire department, police department, and community partners, ensuring efficient emergency responses and maintaining a secure environment in a growing city.
  • PEDCO and Economic Development: Brandon prioritizes the support and growth of local businesses and industries, with a focus on job creation and sustainable economic development.
  • Advocacy and Community Outreach: Brandon aims to enhance access to open forums for community members and leaders to engage in problem-solving discussions and bridge the gap between local leadership and citizens.
  • Affordable Housing: Brandon supports affordable housing initiatives to address rising housing costs and prevent gentrification in Pueblo.
  • Expanding Recreation: Brandon recognizes the significance of investing in local outdoor recreation and recreation centers to promote physical health, social cohesion, and economic growth in a growing community.
  • Public Equity: Brandon emphasizes the need for equity in access to services and equitable funding distribution, particularly in underserved areas of Pueblo.
  • Community Inclusion: Brandon believes in inclusive leadership, where leaders from diverse areas collaborate to plan for the future of Pueblo, ensuring comprehensive input in strategic city planning.

Scorecard: 3

Pueblo School District No.60 School Director At Large: 2-Year Term

Brian Cisneros

Background: Background: Brian Cisneros has a Bachelor of Science in horticulture from Colorado State University (CSU) and has over a decade of experience in the horticulture field, where he worked his way up to a management position.

Key Priorities:

  • Safety: Brian Cisneros is advocating for comprehensive safety measures in D60 schools, including updated security protocols and strong partnerships with law enforcement to ensure a secure environment for students, teachers, and the community.
  • Bring Back Trades and Vocations: Cisneros advocates for the reintroduction of vocation and trade classes to D60 schools.
  • Increase Academic Results: Cisneros is committed to ensuring that D60 schools invest in classrooms to prioritize students’ learning of the basics.
  • Spend Money Wisely: Cisneros values fiscal responsibility. He aims to prioritize spending on proven programs and high-quality staff while respecting the resources provided by Pueblo residents.

Scorecard: 0

Anthony Perko

Background: Anthony Perko has a background in law and has represented various entities, including school districts and charter schools. He attended the University of Colorado Boulder for his undergraduate studies and obtained a juris doctor from the University of Denver. In May 2020, he opened his own legal practice, Perko Law.

Key Priorities:

  • Enrollment Challenges: Perko aims to address the issue of declining enrollment in the district by finding solutions and catering to the needs of students who are opting for online charter schools. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining funding and services despite declining enrollment.
  • Facilities Management: Perko is committed to improving facilities management in the district. He believes regular reviews of all buildings, with monthly reports to the board and superintendent, can help prevent worst-case scenarios like recent school closings.
  • Endorsed By: Southern Colorado Labor Council, Pueblo Education Association,
  • Candidate Website: N/A

Scorecard: 2

Pueblo School District No.60 School Board Director At Large: 4-Year Term 

Dennis Maes

Background: Dennis Maes is a retired chief district judge for Colorado’s 10th Judicial District, He spent two years as a school teacher in Huerfano School District RE-1, holds a graduate degree from the University of Colorado School of Law, and has 40 years of legal experience in various roles, including staff attorney for Pueblo County Legal Services, deputy state public defender, attorney in private practice, and district judge. 

Key Priorities:

  • Kids First: Dennis Maes is committed to putting the interests of students and families first, free from special interests or personal agendas that could impact their future.
  • “Adopt a School” Program: Maes plans to rejuvenate the “Adopt a School” program, promoting partnerships between organizations and local schools for academic support, career readiness, school culture improvement, and wellness.
  • Pro Bono Mental Health Program: Maes spearheaded a pro bono mental health program, providing free mental health services to students, demonstrating his dedication to student well-being.
  • D60 Safe Schools and Healthy Students Initiative: Maes secured a $5 million grant for the D60 Safe Schools and Healthy Students Initiative, underscoring his commitment to student safety and overall well-being within the district.
  • Endorsed By: Pueblo Association of Realtors,
  • Candidate Website: N/A

Scorecard: 0

Roger L. Wright

Background: Roger Wright holds a doctorate of dental surgery and a master’s degree in education. He has experience as an assistant professor at the University of Iowa’s College of Dentistry and over two decades of dentistry practice in Pueblo County. After retiring, he became a volunteer science teacher at Family Worship Center Academy.

Key Priorities:

  • Academic Excellence: Roger Wright emphasizes the importance of improving core academic skills, such as reading, writing, math, science, and history, to ensure students are well-prepared for their future.
  • School Safety: Based on his personal experience with a school shooting, Wright prioritizes enhancing school security and facilities to create a safer learning environment for students and staff.
  • Parental Engagement: Wright advocates for active parental involvement in their children’s education, seeing parents as crucial partners in their academic development.
  • Educational Choice: He supports expanding educational options by promoting the establishment of charter schools and conducting a thorough evaluation of district budgets and academic programs to enhance student outcomes.

Scorecard: 0

Bill Thiebaut

Background: Bill Thiebaut, an attorney and politician, served multiple terms in the Colorado House of Representatives from 1987 to 1993 and held office in the Colorado Senate. He became the district attorney for Colorado’s Tenth Judicial District (Pueblo County) from January 2001 to 2013.

Key Priorities:

  • Education: Thiebaut advocates for safe, well-funded, and creative schools, emphasizing school safety and addressing safety concerns.
  • Fiscal Responsibility: He aims to increase state revenue to meet community needs, recognizing the shortfall in property taxes, fees, and state aid.
  • Enhancing Education: Thiebaut is committed to improving various aspects of education, including classrooms, curriculums, school buildings, activities, nutrition services, and teacher retention efforts.
  • Community Building: He seeks to build a community that encourages residents to stay, work, invest, and pay property taxes while ensuring quality education for their children, with cooperation from community leaders.

Endorsed By: Southern Colorado Labor Council, Pueblo Education Association,

Scorecard: 2

Sol Sandoval Tafoya 

Background: Sol Sandoval is a 2008 graduate of Colorado State University, Pueblo. She is fully bilingual in English and Spanish, has a background in social work, community organizing, and activism. In 2022, she ran for Congress in Colorado’s 3rd District and currently works multiple jobs, including community-based research projects with the University of Colorado Denver.

Key Priorities:

  • Mental Health and Student Wellness: Sandoval’s top priority is to provide mental health resources to prevent suicides and promote student and staff well-being.
  • Teacher Retention and Recruitment: Sandoval aims to prioritize teacher retention and recruitment, advocating for fair wages and retaining talented educators.
  • Access to Arts and World Language Programs: She is dedicated to expanding student access to arts and world language programs to provide a well-rounded education.
  • Advocating for Neglected Neighborhoods: Sandoval passionately advocates for children and families, particularly in underserved areas. She opposes the creation of high-paying administrative positions using grant funds, advocating for more equitable resource allocation.
  • Endorsed By: Southern Colorado Labor Council, Pueblo Education Association, Nick Hinrichsen, Pueblo Association of Realtors,
  • Candidate Website: N/A

Scorecard: 5

Tommy Farrell

Background: Tommy Farrell has a background in education and business. He graduated from Rye High School, earned a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University – Pueblo, and co-owns New Frontier Engineering. Tommy has also served as the chair of the Sangre de Cristo Board of Trustees and is the President of the Southern Colorado Equality Alliance. He has played a role in the construction of new schools and improvements in District 60, and has experience working with youth in Southern Colorado through the Boy Scouts of America.

Key Priorities:

  • Education Access for All: Tommy’s top priority is to remove barriers to education, ensuring all students in District 60 have access to safe, quality education.
  • Equitable Education: He envisions a district that provides equitable education, irrespective of students’ backgrounds.
  • Mental Health Support: Tommy aims to collaborate with local mental health organizations and providers to address mental health issues across the community, with a particular focus on students.
  • Increased District Funding: Farrell looks to continue advocating for more district funding from the state to support education.
  • LGBTQ Inclusivity: Tommy wants to ensure that LGBTQ students don’t face barriers to learning in the classroom, focusing on providing quality education to every student regardless of their identity or location.
  • Endorsed By: Representative Mathew Martinez, Sarah Martinez, LGBTQ Victory Fund, Southern Colorado Labor Council, Pueblo Education Association,
  • Candidate Website: https://www.tommysfarrell.com/ 

Scorecard: 4

Sue Pannunzio

Background: Background: Sue Pannunzio has 33 total years of teaching experience, starting her career as a vocational teacher at Grand Junction High School and later serving as an elementary school reading coach in Pueblo D60. She holds a bachelor’s degree in vocational education from Colorado State University and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction.

Key Priorities:

  • School Safety: Pannunzio aims to prioritize school safety as the top concern. She supports ongoing improvements to safety protocols and the deployment of school resource officers districtwide.
  • Transparency: Pannunzio is committed to upholding transparency in district matters, including curriculum, policy, and finances. She believes that parents should have clear information about what and why teachers are teaching, ensuring that it aligns with their moral, ethical, religious, or ideological values.
  • Adequate Staffing and Resources: Pannunzio recognizes the significance of adequately staffing schools and providing teachers with the necessary resources, including opportunities for professional development. She aims to ensure that schools are well-equipped to deliver quality education.
  • Parental Involvement in Education: In her words, “As a conservative”, Pannunzio supports the idea that parents should have a say in their children’s education. She opposes racial theory and advocates for the inclusion of prayer in schools; she does not want education to undermine student’s moral, ethical, religious, or ideological views.

Scorecard: 0

Dan Comden

Background: Dan Comden has a background in insurance and sales. He has 20 years of experience with the claims office at Farmers Insurance and 15 years of experience as a roof salesman with Calvin Turner Roofing LLC. Comden served on the Pueblo D60 board from 2003 to 2011. Comden has served as vice president of the Pueblo Area Council of Governments and as a representative of the Colorado High Schools Activities Association. He was a part-time instructor for the alternative high school and GED programs at Pueblo Community College. Comden was a founding director of Rocky Mountain Bible Camp.

Key Priorities:

  • Dynamic Financing: Dan Comden’s stance is to “Right Size Administration, Focus Funds in the Classroom, Increase Spending Transparency, and be Fiscally Conservative.” He aims to ensure that 80% of school district spending is focused in the classrooms and that the administration is appropriately sized. Comden also plans to increase community engagement in the budgeting process and ensure investments in increasing student opportunities.
  • Academics Mastered: Comden’s goal is to “Teach the Basics, Increase Career, Technical, and Trade Classes, and Graduate Students Ready for Success.” He prioritizes empowering teachers to teach the basics and enabling students to focus on learning while offering additional career class opportunities.
  • Nurture Success: Dan Comden seeks to “Reward Excellence, Spread Best Practices, Question Everything, and Focus on What Works.” He believes in seeking and replicating best practices across the district to ensure excellence in education.
  • Champion Education: Comden emphasizes “Respect Parents, Engage the Community, and Increase Business Engagement.” He considers delivering excellence in public schools critical for a thriving community and aims to create success.

Scorecard: 0

Pueblo Mayoral

 4-Year term expiring 01.11.2028

Nick Gradisar

Background: Nick Gradisar graduated from Southern Colorado State College and obtained his legal education at Drake University. He practiced law in Pueblo for 40 years. Gradisar served as the past president of the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the past president of the Action 22 Board of Directors, and an elected member of the Pueblo Board of Water Works. Nick was elected Mayor of the City of Pueblo in January 2019.

Key Priorities:

  • Creating a Safe City: Nick Gradisar aims to develop a well-trained and diverse police force, enforce the law rigorously, collaborate with the criminal justice system, build responsible communities, ensure public safety through effective community policing, and support small businesses with crime-deterrent measures.
  • Homeless: He plans to coordinate agencies providing services to the homeless, establish a permanent warming shelter, employ the homeless for community cleanup, develop affordable housing, and implement an effective mental health outreach program for the homeless.
  • Housing: Nick intends to implement the Vacant Property Lien Foreclosure program, work with developers and builders to construct affordable housing, and incentivize affordable housing construction by waiving utility tap fees where possible.
  • Building Fair, Equitable, and Green Communities: He seeks to promote comprehensive, inclusive community planning, work towards renewable energy and electrification of City vehicles, ensure equal access to City services and facilities, and promote efficiency and transparency in City Government.
  • Investing in Our Future, Youth: Nick plans to continue the Mayor’s Youth Council, champion public schools, work with middle school youth to mitigate social issues, and foster educational partnerships with business and industry.
  • Responsible Economic Development: He intends to support big industry, “Main Street,” and entrepreneurial businesses, make it easier to do business in Pueblo, collaborate with industry and small business leaders for sustainable futures, improve communication between City, County, and State officials, encourage living wage opportunities, and promote ethnically and culturally diverse businesses. He also prioritizes “Pueblo First” source hiring of Pueblo graduates and residents.
  • Endorsed By: International Association of Firefighters, Local #3Colorado Professional Firefighters, Southern Colorado Labor Council, Letter Carriers, Local #227, Pueblo’s Energy Future and Conservation Colorado
  • Candidate Website: https://nickgradisar.com/ 

Scorecard: 4

Heather Graham

Background: Heather Graham has a degree in Psychology with a minor in Statistics from Colorado State University Pueblo. She owns four local businesses and is currently on the city council, representing at large and serving as the council president.

Key Priorities:

  • Safety and Community Engagement: Heather focuses on improving safety by addressing staffing shortages in the public safety sector and enhancing incident response times to create a safer community.
  • Business-Friendly Community: Heather aims to establish a business-focused committee to provide insights on improving the business environment, develop a more accessible unified code for new businesses, and create a full-time development recruiter position to support new businesses.
  • Preventing and Addressing Homelessness: Heather works to increase access to affordable housing and establish wrap-around services for the homeless, emphasizing a more adequate homeless shelter with wrap-around services and policies promoting transition housing.
  • City Cleanliness: Heather’s approach includes organizing monthly city-funded pickup days for each district, offering more free trash cleanups, placing recycling bins next to trash cans on city sidewalks, and streamlining the process of disposing of electronics and hazardous waste.
  • Effective Government: Heather seeks to create a transparent, inclusive, and accessible government that works for all residents, focusing on issues like affordable housing, clean energy, and quality education while enhancing civic participation. She intends to create an inter-department strategic plan for the next four years.

Scorecard: 2

Randy Thurston

Background: Randy Thurston has a 40-year career in Real Estate and served the city of Pueblo as a city councilman for 8 years, with one year as President of the Council.

Key Priorities:

  • Zero Tolerance for Illegal Drugs: Randy advocates for a strict stance against illegal drugs in the city, proposing that the city’s “home rule” status can be used to enforce this policy if 80% of the population agrees. Note: The feasibility of this approach may be incorrect as state laws and regulations can limit what a “home rule” city can mandate.
  • Zero Tolerance for Crime: Randy emphasizes a strong stance against crime in the city.
  • Protecting Children: He aims to label children a special class, so predators targeting children are subject to more severe consequences.
  • Proper Use of Taxpayer Money: Randy intends to allocate taxpayer funds according to the desires of the taxpayers, prioritizing their preferences.

Scorecard: 0

Chris Nicoll

Background: Chris Nicoll is a former Pueblo City Council member and Cybersecurity Architect in the defense sector. 

key priorities:

  • Public Safety: Collaborating with the City Council to strengthen the police department, increase patrols, enforce tougher prosecution measures, and increase penalties for shoplifting and theft crimes.
  • Addressing Homelessness: Investing in affordable housing, creating safe spaces for the homeless, and enforcing restrictions on camping, loitering, and restricting panhandling donations from vehicles in roadways.
  • Revitalizing Neighborhoods: Proactively enforcing code regulations, expanding recycling programs, and cleaning up blighted areas.
  • Economic Development: Focusing on attracting tech and healthcare opportunities, encouraging businesses to relocate, and promoting trade school programs to retain young talent.

Position on Reproductive Rights: Anti-Choice 

Scorecard: 0

Dennis Flores

Background: Dennis Flores is currently on the city council as a representative at large. He has an extensive background in public service, having served on the Colorado State University Pueblo Board of Governors, as president of the Pueblo Latino Chamber of Commerce, and on the Pueblo School District 60 Board of Education. He also has military experience, having served in the Army Security Agency (ASA) from 1967 to 1971.

Key Priorities:

  • Job Creation: Dennis Flores is committed to promoting job creation in Pueblo, focusing on initiatives to boost the local workforce and stimulate economic growth.
  • Workforce Development: Flores aims to address the “skills gap” in Pueblo through workforce development programs and initiatives, ensuring that the community has access to the necessary skills for employment opportunities.
  • Housing Development: As part of his platform, Flores plans to tackle housing shortages in Pueblo by leveraging existing infrastructure to build “mother-in-law houses” on larger lots and supporting the construction of more multifamily housing projects.
  • Community Growth and Development: Flores envisions several key projects for Pueblo, including the construction of a convention-attracting hotel, an aquatic center, incentives for remote workers to relocate to the city, and the hiring of an internal auditor. His goal is to create a city government that prioritizes accountability, ethical decision-making, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.

Scorecard: 4

Larry Atencio

Background: Larry Atencio has been a member of the Pueblo City Council, representing District 2 since 2007. His qualifications include a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering Technology from Southern Colorado State College (now CSU-Pueblo) and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Northern Colorado. He served in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne Division and later worked for the City-County Health Department as a Health Inspector.

Key Priorities:

  • Renewable Energy: Larry is committed to leading Pueblo towards 100% renewable, green energy, saving the city millions of dollars and preserving the state’s natural beauty.
  • Park Expansion & Revitalization: He envisions more funding for existing parks and the development of new ones, complete with amenities like skate parks and clubhouses. Larry prioritizes the well-maintenance of public sports facilities.
  • City Beautification: Larry understands the importance of city beautification and aims to restructure funding for beautification projects to maintain Pueblo’s aesthetic appeal without straining finances.
  • New Community Facilities: Larry advocates for local amenities such as softball complexes, an aquatics center, and more, eliminating the need to travel to other cities for such facilities.
  • Crime & Policing: He fights for fair police officer salaries and proposes a real-time police center using existing cameras to enhance safety and law enforcement efficiency in Pueblo.

Scorecard: 2

Thomas Croshal

Background: Tom Croshal is a retired small business owner with over 40 years of experience in construction.

Key Priorities:

  • Homelessness: Croshal believes that homelessness is a pressing issue and takes up a significant portion of law enforcement’s time with harassment calls. His goal is to build additional homeless shelters and increase access to mental health resources to alleviate the problem for the police.
  • Public Safety Funding: Croshal is dissatisfied with the current administration’s decision to open a real-time crime center, which he believes will cost $2.3 million annually. He opposes this and instead aims to redirect funding to support real-time policing, potentially hiring more officers or providing bonuses to existing ones.
  • Community Safety and Infrastructure: Croshal proposes using a portion of the $2.3 million intended for the real-time crime center to install 300 solar-powered LED motion-activated streetlights in areas with crime problems, along with 300 solar-powered cameras and 20 license plate readers to enhance safety.
  • Budget Restructuring: Tom Croshal suggests that the city’s budget needs restructuring to prioritize issues such as public transportation and building shelters for the homeless over infrastructure projects. He is willing to delay these projects to address immediate community needs.

Scorecard: 1

Regina Maestri

Background: Regina Maestri, currently serving on the Pueblo City Council representing District 1, is a mayoral candidate who takes a strong anti-choice stance. Regina Maestri’s platform is rooted in the belief that municipal government should prioritize taxpayer dollars for maintenance and infrastructure, rather than social programs. She positions herself as a leader with the skills, experience, integrity, and drive to efficiently address the concerns of Pueblo’s citizens and create a thriving, safe, and productive community.

Regina’s campaign emphasizes several key points:

  • She celebrates Pueblo as a blue-collar community with a deep sense of pride in the hard work and values that define the city.
  • Regina is vocal about her faith in Jesus Christ and is dedicated to preserving the country and community’s foundation of “In God we Trust.”
  • She advocates for traditional family values and is concerned about the influence of outside leaders on Pueblo’s children.

Key Priorities: :

  • Enforcing city laws and ordinances rigorously to address issues like homelessness, excessive crime, blight, panhandling, drug use, loitering, trespassing, and littering.
  • Championing new ordinances with the city council to improve the community’s quality of life.
  • Conducting audits of city departments to ensure effective and efficient operations.
  • Contracting with skilled private contractors for public area trash cleanups.
  • Holding various entities accountable for property maintenance and cleanliness.
  • Prioritizing public safety and allocating a larger portion of the budget for law enforcement and fire departments.
  • Reducing homelessness to alleviate the strain on first responders.
  • Advocating for small businesses by addressing issues related to the homeless population.
  • Evaluating and being transparent about economic development resources.

 Scorecard: 0

Deryk Trujillo

Background: Deryk Trujillo is a young entrepreneur who runs the Podcast “Street Champs” on YouTube and Facebook. He’s 25 years old and hopes to inspire more Gen-Z and millennial Puebloans to participate in the political process. Deryk is also a mayoral candidate with a focus on community safety, marijuana policy, and encouraging younger voter turnout.

Key Priorities:

  • Community Safety: Deryk believes that crime is an issue in Pueblo and, as mayor, he aims to introduce incentives to rebuild the police force for community safety.
  • Marijuana Policy: Deryk supports the use of recreational and medical marijuana and seeks greater transparency in tracking the tax revenue generated from marijuana sales.
  • Young Voter Turnout: Deryk advocates for more progressive candidates and ideals to increase the participation of younger voters in the political process.
  • Community Engagement: Deryk actively engages with his community through conversations on his YouTube channel, “Street Champs,” as a means to connect with younger generations.

Scorecard: 3

Ballot Measures – Local

2A – Lodger’s Tax for Childcare Programs

Ballot measure 2A proposes a 1.5% increase in the City lodging tax to create a special fund dedicated to making childcare more accessible and affordable for working families in Pueblo.

Background: Pueblo families currently spend a significant portion of their income, between 18-34%, on childcare. This measure aims to address this issue by generating $630,000 per year to support families who do not qualify for federal assistance programs but still struggle to afford childcare.

Implications: If 2A is approved, it will establish a special fund for accessible and affordable childcare programs for working families in Pueblo. A local oversight committee will review applications and allocate financial awards. However, it will affect only visitors staying in Pueblo hotels and motels within the City limits, with no impact on local residents. The tax increase will sunset in five years unless renewed by voters in 2028.

Arguments for: 

  • Increased Childcare Access: 2A will make quality childcare more accessible to middle-income families in Pueblo who do not qualify for federal subsidies.
  • Families making 200% – 750% of the federal poverty line, approximately $55,200 for a family of four, will be eligible for financial assistance.
  • Financial aid for a family of four with two children in childcare could be as much as $15,396 per year.
  • Economic Support for Working Families: This measure supports working parents by reducing the financial burden of childcare, allowing them to continue working or attending school.

https://www.puebloforfamilies.com/

Arguments Against:

  • High Lodging Taxes: 2A would result in some of the highest lodging taxes in the state, potentially discouraging tourists from staying in Pueblo hotels and motels.
  • Limited Beneficiaries: Critics argue that this measure might only benefit a limited number of Pueblo families, with claims that it would help just 38 families.

Opponents:

Supporters:

PEDCO, Marisa Center for Safety (formerly known as YWCA), Early Childhood Council Leadership Alliance (ECCLA), Executives Partnering to Invest in Children Pueblo (EPIC Pueblo), Commissioner Swearingen, Commissioner Esgar, Heather Graham, Sarah Martinez, Tommy Farrell, Chris DeLuca, Nick Hinrichsen, Tisha Mauro, Matthew Martinez, NAACP Pueblo, Sol Sandoval Tofoya, Southern Colorado Labor Council

Statewide Propositions:

Proposition HH – Reduce Property Taxes and Retain State Revenue

Proposition HH aims to make changes to Colorado’s property tax and state revenue limits. It includes reductions in the residential property tax assessment rate, the creation of new property tax subclasses, and provisions for local government backfilling. Additionally, it establishes a cap on state revenue, allowing the state to retain excess revenue that would otherwise be refunded to taxpayers under the Colorado Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR).

Background: This measure was introduced in response to the need for voter approval under TABOR since it would increase state revenue. The repeal of the Gallagher Amendment in 2020 created a gap in property tax revenue, prompting the introduction of Proposition HH to address this issue.

Implications: If approved, Proposition HH would lead to reduced property tax rates, two new subclasses of residential property, backfill payments to compensate local governments for lost property tax revenue, limits on local government property tax revenue, and a new cap on state revenue. It would also affect TABOR refunds, redirecting funds to property tax reductions.

Arguments for: 

  • Balancing Property Tax Relief and State Revenue:** Supporters argue that Proposition HH strikes a balance by providing property tax relief to homeowners and businesses while allowing the state to retain excess revenue, which can fund essential services.
  • Responsible Fiscal Management:** Proponents believe that the measure demonstrates responsible fiscal management, taking advantage of a strong economy and TABOR surplus to address property tax concerns without jeopardizing funding for schools and local services.

Arguments Against:

  • Impact on Renters: Opponents contend that the measure unfairly impacts renters, who may not receive property tax relief yet contribute to the cost through their taxes.
  • Historical Concerns: Critics cite past attempts by the state legislature to divert TABOR refunds, expressing skepticism about the government’s handling of such funds.
  • Long-term Consequences: Some argue that the measure’s annual increase in the TABOR cap could have cumulative effects, potentially eliminating TABOR refunds altogether over time.
  • Failure to Address Root Issue: The measure is criticized for not effectively addressing the underlying problem of rising property taxes, with some seeing it as a short-term solution.
  • Complexity and Violation of Single-Subject Rule: Critics raise concerns about the complexity of Proposition HH and its potential violation of the single-subject rule, which aims to ensure clarity and fairness in ballot measures.

Opponents:

Barbara Kirkmeyer, Republican Party of Denver, Advance Colorado Institute, Colorado River District, Michael Fields(President of Advance Colorado Institute)

Five committees are registered to oppose the measure: Tabor Coalition (RejectHH.Com), No on HH, Taxpayers for a Better Deal, Americans for Prosperity Colorado Issue Committee, and HH-NO.com. 

Supporters:

Jared Polis, Stephen Fenberg, Democratic Party of Colorado, Bell Policy Center 

Learn More: https://ballotpedia.org/Colorado_Proposition_HH,_Property_Tax_Changes_and_Revenue_Change_Measure_(2023) 

Proposition II – Colorado Tobacco Tax Revenue Retention

Proposition II asks whether the state of Colorado can retain and utilize $23.65 million in excess revenue generated from increased and new tobacco, cigarette, and nicotine taxes, as approved by voters in Proposition EE in 2020. The alternative is to refund this excess revenue to distributors and wholesalers and reduce the tax rates established by Proposition EE.

Background: Proposition II is on the ballot because it requires voter approval under TABOR (Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights). TABOR limits the state’s ability to retain and spend revenue, and any surplus must be refunded to taxpayers unless voters allow the state to keep it.

Implications: 

If approved, Proposition II would allow the state to keep the excess $23.65 million, directing it towards the universal preschool program, which is the primary recipient of Proposition EE funds. Tax rates established in Proposition EE would remain unchanged.

If rejected, the state would be required to refund the excess revenue to tobacco and nicotine product distributors and wholesalers, leading to an 11.53% reduction in tax rates on these products.

Arguments For:

  • Funding Universal Preschool: Proposition II allows the state to keep excess revenue generated from tobacco and nicotine taxes, directing $23.65 million to enhance the universal preschool program. This helps provide thousands of children with access to additional preschool programs each year.
  • Dissuading Youth Tobacco Use: Higher taxes on tobacco and nicotine products lead to reduced usage among youth and young adults, thus helping to protect public health by keeping these harmful products out of the hands of young people.

Arguments Against:

  • Expanding Government: Critics argue that Proposition II unnecessarily expands government, as taxpayers are asked to forgo refunds and accept higher tax rates for a program that is already fully funded to the level approved by voters in Proposition EE.
  • Financial Burden on Vulnerable Populations: Detractors view Proposition II as a tax increase, which imposes a financial burden on individuals struggling with addiction, particularly those with lower incomes. Rejecting the measure would lower these taxes and provide relief to Coloradans.

Opponents:

Supporters:

Jared Polis, Rhonda Fields, Dominick Moreno, Julie McCluskie, Emily Sirota, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Bright By Text, Business and Professional Women of Colorado, Caring for Colorado, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Clayton Early Learning, Colorado Children’s Campaign, Colorado PTA, Council for a Strong America, Democrats for Education Reform Colorado, Denver Preschool Program, Early Childhood Council of Larimer County, Education Reform Now, Executives Partnering to Invest in Children, Gary Ventures Inc, Great Education Colorado, Healthier Colorado, Mile High Early Learning, Parent Possible, Pro 15, Save the Children Action Network, Spring Institute for Intercultural Learning, Stand for Children Colorado, The Women’s Foundation of Colorado

Learn More: https://ballotpedia.org/Colorado_Proposition_II,_Tobacco_and_Nicotine_Product_Tax_Revenue_Measure_(2023)

Remember that your vote is your voice! We encourage you to research further and engage with candidates directly to gain a comprehensive understanding of their positions on the issues. Make sure to vote to make your voice heard.

This guide is provided by Pueblo Pro-Choice and is intended to be non-partisan and informative. Thank you for being an informed voter!

Colorado Voter Information

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