Emma Pinter, candidate for Adams County Commissioner District 3

Party: Democrat

City: Westminster

Profession: Westminster City Councilor

Contact: Emma.pinter@gmail.com, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmmasForUs/ Twitter: @ehpinter

www.emmapinter.com

What do you see as the most important responsibilities of being a County Commissioner?

I was raised by a single mom. My mother passed away when I was 20, my sister was 16. It fell to me to ensure not only that I finished school, but that my sister was able to attend college and graduate as well. My community took care of us when we struggled.

I am running because it's critical we create opportunities for everyone to have a chance to succeed and earn a good life.

If elected, what must you accomplish in order for you to consider your term a success?

With the economy roaring, we also have big challenges like the rising cost of housing.

As we encourage economic growth, we need to keep a focus on quality jobs, locally-owned businesses, and economic opportunities for across all of Adams County.

What we need is a growing economy that builds opportunity for all who live here to build a good life.

What is the most pressing issue for a rapidly growing Adams County and how will you address it?

Affordability is the big issue facing Adams County. Housing people can afford is critical because our state has been leading the nation in annual rental rate increases. For many neighborhoods, rents have literally doubled in the past 5-6 years.

Without strong advocates in local government, growth could displace entire communities.

Access to housing and transportation are critical to healthy families and stable communities. We need to give everyone the opportunity to earn a good life.

How can you balance safety with economic development when it comes to regulating the oil and gas industry?

When I talk to residents in impacted areas I hear a deep fear for how these issues are handled at the state level.

We already have some of the strongest air quality regulations in the nation. What we don't have is a consistent emphasis on public safety, regular inspections, methane recapture and public health.

Resident concerns must be taken seriously. We must seek outcomes that preserve the Colorado way of life for future generations.

What can County Commissioners do to ease the strain of rising housing prices on Adams County residents?

Affordability is an issue for all: Seniors can't downsize, families can't buy their dream house, and young people can't get out of their parent's basement.

We need smart growth solutions that preserve the character of our community.

The County Commissioners are the advocates for Adams County. The competition for resources is fierce. My role as Commissioner would be to gather as many resources as possible to improve the lives of the people who live here.