Johnston’s Bond Package Facing Challenges

Park Hill Golf Course Photo via Colordo Golf

Denver voters will be asked on November 4th to vote on a $935 million five bond package for buildings, roads, bridges, parks, and recreational centers/libraries. Over the last twenty years, Denver mayors have won voter approval for many bond packages, often at or in excess of half a billion dollars but not without challenges, and this year they are formidable.

Denver voters are concerned about the economy and especially the cost of living, and feeling powerless to stop or influence the direction of the national government.

• Economic uncertainty has people cautious about their finances and especially concerned with the cost of living.
• Denver’s city government is in financial hard times exacerbated by the federal government causing a budget shortfall, a hiring freeze and layoffs.
• The mayor, two years into his term, is dealing with a down economy, poor city financials and considerable criticism from various civic factions. Polls show his approval rating is low. In 2024, his affordable housing proposal lost a city-wide vote.
• The bond package assemblage process and major elements received criticism from various stakeholders, especially city council.

A view of the Park Hill Golf Course in northeast Denver, which closed in 2018. Photo via Colorado News Online

However, Denver city government and various interest groups will conduct a major campaign, or even several. Early polling is positive. The Denver Post has endorsed it and a major theme is repairing and investing in what Denver has. History suggests it should pass even handily, but many observers today are cautious.