I, Jeremy Fey, am running to be your next Gilpin County District 1 Commissioner. Serving as Mayor of Central City has been the most fulfilling work of my life, and now, I am ready to serve all of Gilpin County with the same dedication and passion. I humbly and respectfully ask for your confidence and your vote.

My Vision for Gilpin County

Gilpin County is rich in historical and cultural heritage, blessed with a beautiful mountain environment, and sustained by our vibrant hospitality and entertainment enterprises. My vision is to build on these strengths to create a community that fosters an exceptional quality of life for all residents. This means ensuring that our local government is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people.

Transparency and Accountability

Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of my platform. I believe that trust between the electorate and their elected officials must be restored, starting with me. To achieve this, I propose a comprehensive approach to government transparency that goes beyond what has been done before.

I will hold virtual town halls every Monday before Commissioners’ meetings at 6:00 pm. During these town halls, we will discuss the exact agenda items, and everyone will have the opportunity to speak. This is not just about hearing your voices; it’s about making sure your voices guide the decisions we make.

I will also conduct in-person community outreach meetings for at least two hours per month in each of the three districts, ensuring that no matter where you live in Gilpin County, your concerns and ideas will be heard and addressed.

To ensure transparency, I will fully disclose all meetings, including participants and agendas. Every meeting will be announced upon scheduling, and the proceedings will be shared live or recorded for public review. For those who do not wish to be recorded, access to me will be limited to required meetings for county purposes or executive sessions.

Additionally, I will publish a monthly summary in both local newspapers and on social media, detailing our goals, actions, and outcomes. This will provide you with a clear understanding of what your government is doing and why, allowing for greater accountability and informed community participation.

I think you would agree that there is no elected official at any level of government dedicated to this level of Transparency and Accountability. I believe this will have the coupling effect of gaining trust from residents and businesses alike, and that this will foster robust economic development.

Economic Development

Economic activity is the backbone of Gilpin County’s future. Our public services, infrastructure, and future demand that we have a primary focus on our economy. I believe that with the right leadership, Gilpin County can thrive economically without placing an additional burden on its residents.

Black Hawk and Central City

Black Hawk is the economic engine of Gilpin County, accounting for 80% of our local economy. I will continue to express gratitude for what Black Hawk contributes and ask how the county can support its continued success.

Central City with the right support, has the potential to match Black Hawk in taxable commerce and commercial property. If we succeed in this growth, all county-wide departments, services and organizations will be fully funded in perpetuity. It may even be possible that the residents would no longer have any property tax liability.

Unincorporated Areas and Rollinsville

The businesses in our unincorporated areas are vital to our county’s economic health. From standalone restaurants and retail shops to campgrounds and home businesses, these enterprises deserve our full support. I am committed to discovering and supporting these hidden gems to ensure our county’s prosperity.

Rollinsville has great potential, from its current food and beverage offerings to the possibility of a regional commuter rail station. We need to start by asking the residents and businesses what they desire and then determine how the county can help make these desires a reality.

Safety, Security, and First Responders

The safety and security of Gilpin County residents are non-negotiable. Our first responders are the backbone of our community, and they deserve our full support. I will ensure that they are fully equipped, trained, and supported to handle any situation.

I am also passionate about creating a veteran transition program in Gilpin County. Veterans bring invaluable skills and experiences to our community, and we should welcome them with open arms. I envision a program that not only provides a smooth transition to civilian life but also integrates veterans into our emergency services, law enforcement, and other critical roles. This program would honor their service and address pressing needs in our community.

Community Health and Wellness

Health and wellness will be my number one area of focus! Where I spend the most time and energy, on this crucial aspects of a thriving community. I believe Gilpin County should help our residents to transition from reactive to proactive healthcare and resilience. Ensuring food security for all residents is a critical part of this. I will work to make sure that everyone has access to nutritious food and that our community is equipped to support long, healthy lives.

Gilpin Proud

Being Gilpin Proud means more than just living here—it means taking an active role in making our community the best it can be. I’m committed to initiatives that will inspire pride in every resident, such as doubling our community’s total volunteer hours within the next four years. I also want to make Gilpin County a top community for adoption, encouraging a culture where every child finds a loving home, and improving our county’s ranking as one of the best places to live in Colorado. Currently, we are ranked 14th, but with concerted efforts in community health, safety, and economic development, I am confident we can climb the ranks.

Learn More Online

Since the paper cannot possibly allow me to have the whole issue for a more detailed discussion of my platform and policies, I invite you to visit my campaign Facebook page, Jeremy Fey for Gilpin, where you can find a comprehensive version of my platform. I encourage you to reach out with any questions or concerns—your feedback is vital to shaping a Gilpin County for all residents.

Closing Statement

I will not be taking any contributions for this campaign, and I do not plan to spend any money. Campaign financing and influence has gotten out of control in our country, and I want to set an example. I am confident that a clear, positive message shared throughout our intimate community can carry us over the finish line.

Furthermore, I believe that our community is best served by having me, an unaffiliated candidate, and Corey Marshall, a Republican, join Susan Berumen, a Democrat, as the three commissioners for Gilpin County. Having no partisanship will allow us to work together for all residents of Gilpin County without regard to a D or R next to our names.

I thank you with all of my heart for your attention and your confidence. Together, we can create a future of ever-growing Gilpin Pride!