Interview with Matt Appelbaum, Mayor of Boulder [Video]

If you want to know what's happening in Boulder, it helps to ask the right person. In many ways, that person is our Mayor, Matt Appelbaum. Earlier this week, we sat down for an interview.

In his living room with the camera rolling, we covered topics ranging from politics to downtown development. The interview lasted well over an hour. To make it more viewer friendly, I've broken the full length video into five segments.

-----------

1. INTRODUCTION

How Matt originally got involved in Boulder government and how local politics have changed over the last 3 decades.

---

2. SUSTAINBLE STREETS AND CENTERS

Designed to make Boulder's streets more walkable and bike friendly, this initiative could bring into play new planning tools (i.e. rules) for development along major transportation arteries. It also has the potential to stir controversy. Depending on the outcome of the elections, it might be the next big thing for City Council.

---

3. TRANSIT VILLAGE AND FASTRACKS

The city describes its vision for Transit Village as a vibrant and sustainable center in Boulder. The hope is that it will be a catalyst for revitalization and redevelopment with a new transit center, new neighborhoods, improved business and industrial districts, transportation improvements, and public spaces. Meanwhile, funding to complete FasTracks is derailed. How will it all come together?

---

4. THE CITY BUDGET AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING

a. The city is currently facing revenue shortfalls. How will the budget gap be closed? Will there be new sources of revenue (taxes) and where will cuts to the city's budget be made?

b. Our economic vitality is dependent on keeping existing employers and encouraging new ones to consider Boulder. How is the city encouraging businesses to make their home here?

c. Density and affordable housing in the city. What does the future look like?

---

5: CONTROVERSY

In a fast paced wrap-up, we covered a variety of controversial topics.

a. City Council has been criticized for fostering a bad relationship with CU. Most recently, CU's plans for Grand View Terrace have been a source of tension.

b. The owners of 1580 Canyon (formerly Robb's music) had plans to build a four-story structure with 14 condos and 3,000 square feet of retail space. Planning Board approval was granted in late 2008, but then City Council voted 6-3 against the proposal. The plans conformed with existing zoning - did City Council overstep its bounds?

c. One idea being tossed around is developing a conference center to attract more visitors to Boulder. Is there a need and how would the city benefit from having one?

---

The COMPLETE INTERVIEW (SEGMENTS 1 -5)

This is the full 1hr 20 minute interview.

---

Silver Fern Homes can help you make a smarter real estate decision. To learn how, call us at 303.746.6896.
---
Note: Our goal is to provide exceptional service to our clients. The ideas and strategies in this blog are the opinion of the writer and subject to market uncertainties. Silver Fern Homes recommends careful and complete due diligence before buying or selling real estate or other investments. Consult with your professional advisers before making financial decisions. This article is not intended as legal, tax, or investment advice. Silver Fern Homes will not be held liable for investment choices derived from this article.