Russell Weisfield
Age: 36
Family: Jackie (spouse)
Occupation: I.T. Specialist at U.S. Department of Agriculture
Education: B.S. Computer Science, Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin – Madison; M.S. Computer Science from the University of Colorado – Denver;
Previous elected office: n/a
Website: RussellForFireBoard.com
On Facebook: RussellWeisfield
On Twitter: @rweisfield
Why are you seeking office?
Currently there exists great difficulty in obtaining information regarding the activities of the Fire Board. Podcasts of the meetings are non-existent, documents remain un-posted to the website, and distribution of pertinent information to the community is low. As a strong proponent of open government, I find the lack of such information problematic. Furthermore, I held and continue to hold concerns about why the election regarding the mill levy increase was done through a private company at a cost in excess of running it through the county and resulted in a turnout that was less than the election held by the county. This concern was intensified when the board asked for an elimination to term limits which was rightly and soundly defeated by the voters.
How have you contributed to the community?
I have long been active in Arvada and its surrounding environs including volunteering at veterans functions. I have experience working with committees, boards, and budgets by serving as chair for the Combined Federal Campaign and acting as president of several community organizations such as Arvadans for Responsible Transportation. Additionally, I have contributed to the Arvada Center and performed at the Arvada Festival Playhouse.
What are the biggest issues facing your constituency?
– Maintaining top ISO ratings and accreditation throughout the district
– Adjusting to changes in boundaries that may include less of Wheat Ridge (south of I-70) and more of Arvada (Adams county)
– Preparing for the impact of the Gold Line completion and associated Transit Oriented Development (TOD)