Andy Kerr
Jeffco County Commissioner District 2
2024 – Answered the following questions from APA:
Andy Kerr
Learn more about Andy Kerr at kerrforjeffco.com
What is the greatest single problem you see facing Jeffco residents today? How would you solve this problem?
Affordable housing and climate impacts, especially combined together, are the most pressing issues facing Jefferson County today. As the climate changes, it impacts our most vulnerable populations, who have also been priced out of housing in much of the Metro Area. We need to collaborate regionally with non-profits, municipalities, and other counties to alleviate the affordable housing issue in the short term, and focus attention and resources on sustainability for long-term climate solutions.
As more and more unincorporated land is bought with an eye toward development, how would you ensure adequate Open Space?
Our Parks and Conservation Department is actually one of the better funded entities within JeffCo, as they have a non-TABOR limited dedicated sales tax. We need to balance the needs of finding infill and appropriate spaces for affordable and workforce housing, while continuing our strong traditions of expanding our Open Space parks and trails.
How do you plan to help citizens have a voice in decisions about that development?
All of our land use decisions are made in public Hearings. The public is able to weigh in with our Planning Commission and with the BCC in open, public meetings. I also meet with individuals and groups on a regular basis to discuss matters like these.
What is your thinking about the Jefferson Parkway at this time?
It is not needed, and we should make transportation plans for north JeffCo that look at alternatives.
What would you do as a County Commissioner to bolster both mental and physical health in Jefferson County?
Our robust Parks and Conservation Department, covering 252 miles of trails, 27 parks, and approximately 56,000 acres is of great mental and physical health benefit to our community. Also, I work closely with our Public Health Department and with Jefferson Center for Mental Health to make sure our community is being served to the best of our abilities.
What is your position regarding the ballot issue related to revenue retention, and how would you communicate that position to voters and persuade them that your position should influence how they vote?
I voted (as County Commissioner) to put it on the ballot, so my position is quite clear. I’ve spoken about this at community forums, and will continue to make sure our voters are informed. As a current candidate myself, I am unable to completely engage in a separate campaign, but I am open about my support.