Keeping the promise of commuter rail to Longmont and beyond.
The time is NOW: TWENTY YEARS AGO, in 2004, RTD came to Boulder and Broomfield county voters, asking for a tax increase to build rail, promising 50 Denver to Longmont trips per day. Voters resoundingly said YES. Let’s not allow RTD to walk away from their promise to Longmont, Boulder, Broomfield, Louisville, and surrounding communities!
Why NOW?:
NEW STATE MONEY — 2 bills passed last year with funding earmarked for RAIL & TRANSIT!
$190 MILLION — RTD sitting on UNCOMMITTED funds!
PUEBLO TO FORT COLLINS RAIL — Broomfield to Longmont is the missing link! let’s do this!
My name is Karen Benker, and I’m running for RTD, District I. I’ve served on Longmont City Council (was Mayor Pro Tem), and served on RTDs board from 1992–2000, where RTD was voted “Best Transit Agency in the US” (American Public Transportation Association). Before that, I was Senior Budget Analyst for Governor Romer’s office — so I know how large infrastructure budgets work.
I’m a problem solver. For the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, I was the Budget Director. As Regional Workforce Director, I ran the Second Chance workforce program in Fort Morgan, eventually creating a humane society for that area. I’m passionate about dogs, and have fostered over 30. I created Furry Friends Biscuit Bakery in 2011, and have been selling homemade biscuits to happy dogs ever since.
A lot can happen in 20 years. Unfortunately, rail for Northern Front Range communities hasn’t. Since 2005:
$87 million paid by Longmont taxpayers
$85 million paid by Broomfield taxpayers
$21 million paid by Lafayette taxpayers
$24 million paid by Louisville taxpayers
Meanwhile, every rail corridor built out south of us, but nothing in Broomfield and Boulder Counties!
Also, we must:
RESTORE bus service that’s been cut
keep transit SAFE to ride
improve customer SERVICE & address needs
There is HOPE. I’ve got the passion, but I also have the experience. I’m anxious for commuter rail to finally happen in our community, aren’t you?
I’ll be on your November 5th ballot — and I hope to earn your vote! — Karen