Lakewood’s Special Election
I want to interrupt my normally scheduled weekly blog post to discuss something important that is happening in our city. Next week, Lakewood residents who are active voters (click here to check on the status of your voter registration) should be receiving ballots in the mail that have four questions on them.
These questions ask voters whether or not the city should repeal four ordinances that were passed at the end of last year that updated our city’s zoning code. You can learn more about that on the city’s website by clicking here, the city’s FAQ describes the purpose of zoning codes, why it is being updated, and a summary of the proposed changes.
I have an opinion on what I think the outcome of this election should be, which should shock none of you. But our congregation has taken no position in this election.
I hope that if you are a Lakewood resident that you will vote. Special Elections like these that aren’t on national election day suffer from abysmal voter turnout, and it is so important for us to make our voice heard every time a question about the future of our city, state, or country comes before us. Here are some important dates to remember about this election:
✓ March 23rd: Latest date all active, registered Lakewood voters receive a ballot by mail
✓ March 27th: Last day to mail in your ballot (you can drop it off in a drop box later than this date)
✓ March 30th: Last day to request a ballot be sent to you by mail
✓ April 7th: Last day to register and last day to pick up a ballot in person at the city clerk’s desk
If you don’t receive a ballot by March 23rd, contact the Lakewood City Clerk ASAP at 303-987-7080 or visit the Clerk’s Office at 480 S Allison Pkwy. They are open 8AM-5PM Monday through Friday normally, and 7AM-7PM on April 7th.
There is a bunch of information flying around these days about this election. People are knocking on doors, people are handing out flyers at grocery stores, literature is being mailed or left on doors and there will be at least one ad on television.
I will confess that I solidly land on the side of voting against repealing this zoning code—I will be voting NO on all four questions.
But I hope you take some time to inform yourself if you are a lakewood resident and come up with your own conclusion.
The most prominent website for the NO campaign is: www.makelakewoodlivable.com
The most prominent website for the YES campaign is: www.lakewoodcitizensalliance.com
And finally, please consider watching the forum this week where both campaigns will join together in a forum moderated by the League of Women Voters to make their case and share their sides. I am also always personally willing to chat with you about why I land where I do on this question as well. You can schedule a conversation with me by clicking here.
Getting informed and voting is a part of how we make our neighborhood better! Political engagement at all levels of government is a spiritual practice and a form of prayer. Thank you for raising your voice as people of faith.
Onward!
