Steve O'Dorisio, candidate for Adams County Commissioner District 4

Party: Democrat

City: Welby

Profession:

Contact: steve@steveodorisio.com

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

First, creating a fiscally responsible budget that addresses the needs of the community. Second, implementing policies that promote excellent delivery of county services to our residents, businesses, and stakeholders. And finally, make sound and responsible decisions relating to land use and long-range planning that benefit the community for years to come.

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

Complete construction of the new animal shelter, establish a vision for the Aerotropolis (including the new Colorado Air and Space Port), begin phases of design-construction of I-270 (and other high-priority regional transportation projects), and resolve the DIA noise dispute.

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

The bottom line is that we have to manage growth in a way that maximizes the benefits (jobs, opportunities, improved shared amenities like parks/transit) while minimizing the burdens (congestion, aging infrastructure crime). Most of all, growth cannot happen on the backs of existing taxpayers who stuck with us through the good times and the bad times. In Adams County, we must work hard to address neglected/aging infrastructure while also preparing for more growth and opportunity.

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

With the support of my colleagues, I proposed innovative solutions such as hiring an independent oil and gas inspector and a free water safety testing program for residential water wells located near oil and gas development. We strengthened the County oil and gas regulations to increase protections for our residents while still allowing development to occur in safer areas. We must continue to engage residents, industry, and government stakeholders to find solutions that are reasonable.

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

Our challenge is to promote more development to increase supply and slow down the price increases. We cannot rely on government subsidies to provide housing so we need to work with developers, neighborhoods and government partners to drive down the costs of building homes.

I was proud to support construction defect legislation that reformed the system to encourage more multifamily homes. It is also important to maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of shared amenities.