Michael P. Griffith

  Arvada’s population has increased over 15% in the past 10 years. Once sleepy side roads have become main thoroughfares. Safe and handicapped accessible sidewalks should exist all over Arvada to walk or safely ride a bike, and we all agree that we need access to fresh, clean water. The residents of Arvada overwhelmingly approved the 3F bond initiative to fix 72nd Avenue and Ralston Road. Projects like these ensure pedestrian safety and more efficient travel. Using my professional insight, input from the public, the Land Development Code, the Comprehensive Plan and City staff - I look forward to overseeing future infrastructure investments to ensure communities are heard and city transportation needs are met. 

 Over the last 10 years the average home price in Arvada has increased 140%. Wages have mostly stagnated, and our population has increased dramatically. Simply put, the word is out that Arvada is a great place to live, and there is more demand for housing in our city than there is supply. Infill development is better for open space preservation but can result in undesirable density. New housing developments are necessary to keep up with demand. Balancing the need for affordable housing and maintaining our great parks and open spaces requires knowledge and expertise. The most effective way to increase access to housing for all of Arvadans is to build a greater supply of diverse housing options while not at the expense of our community’s character and charm.  

 The City of Arvada consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Colorado and in the country. Our Arvada Police Department has consistently met and exceeded benchmarks set by City Council to keep Arvada safe because of its dedication to the recruitment of highly qualified professionals, rigorous training and constant community engagement to improve its practices year after year. 

 Arvada has a unique and resilient small business ecosystem thoroughly tested during the pandemic. With the strong support and leadership from the City and a dedicated community, the Arvada business community grew by 3.5% last year. Projects such as the extended street closures in Olde Town Arvada provide additional outdoor retail space and have proven to increase revenue and foot traffic. I will continue to advocate for our business community and encourage the spread of these creative solutions to other corners of the City of Arvada to ensure that our local businesses thrive!