Paula’s Policy Platform: A Stronger, Smarter Lakewood

🏘️ Protecting Neighborhoods & Zoning Integrity

• Oppose blanket upzoning that disregards neighborhood character.

• Champion thoughtful, neighborhood-based planning that reflects the voices of residents.

• Create a development committee for thoughful development discussions

🚓 Safe & Resilient Communities

• Prioritize investments in community policing and crime prevention.

• Expand mental health crisis response teams and domestic violence support services.

• Strengthen emergency preparedness and wildfire mitigation in vulnerable areas - with a city grant committment.

🌳 Sustainability & Clean Air

• Advocate for cleaner air through strategies like Vehicle Miles Traveled reduction.

• Support tree planting, urban canopy protection, and wildfire-resistent landscaping.

• Push to reauthorize the new Lakewood Sustainability Committee in 2026 to guide sustainable investments.

🛣️ Infrastructure & Mobility

• Invest in road maintenance, expanding sidewalk funding, and pedestrian safety infrastructure.

• Expand access to RTD and micro-mobility options like bike and scooter infrastructure.

• Improve pedestrian and cyclist safety through better street design and traffic calming.

🏢 Responsible Growth & Development

• Support balanced growth that aligns with Lakewood’s infrastructure capacity.

• Require new developments to contribute to community benefits like open space and affordable housing.

• Promote redevelopment of underutilized and abandoned commercial corridors and buildings instead of encroaching on established neighborhoods.

💼 Economic Development

• Support local businesses through streamlined permitting and small business grants.

• Encourage job creation through partnerships with industry, education, and workforce training providers.

• Prioritize redevelopment projects that increase Lakewood’s tax base.

🏠 Housing Affordability

• Incentivize affordable housing near transit and services—without weakening neighborhood zoning protections.

• Expand first-time homebuyer support and diverse housing options.

• Explore partnerships for transitional housing and homelessness prevention.

🎓 Youth, Education & Families

• Strengthen partnerships with Jeffco Schools to support safe, high-quality education.

• Fund and look for opportunities to support youth programs, recreation, and after-school initiatives.

• Reinvest in our recreation centers, parks, pool, and other city and community assets.

📣 Transparent, Accountable Government

• Keep residents informed with accessible city data, budgets, and public meetings.

• Oppose state mandates that remove local control over planning and zoning.

• Maintain open lines of communication with residents, neighborhood groups, and HOAs.