I began my career in public service by serving ten years (1994-2003) in the Colorado legislature as a State Representative and a State Senator from districts made up mostly of working families. I sponsored bills to address the day-to-day needs of people in my district by cracking down on predatory lending, supporting child care, creating school-to-career programs for students and improving job training and economic opportunity for all.While in the State Legislature, I served on committees that addressed grassroots concerns – including health, education, and criminal justice. I also served as Chairman of the Legislative Audit Committee and Chairman of the Majority Caucus in the Senate.One of my top achievements in the Legislature was working with others to create a 50% state child care tax credit for contributions to nonprofit and private organizations operating child care or after-school programs. In addition to child care agencies, groups like the United Way, Boys and Girls Club, YMCA and Colorado Children’s Campaign have benefited from the credit, with an estimated $17 million a year impact.After being elected to the City Council, I began a series of sessions called Jumpstart Denver. This led to the creation of Mile High Holidays to encourage tourism and spending in downtown Denver.I believe we should look for ways to invest in people and create long-term economic prosperity. That means investing in alternatives to incarceration. Jails cost more than just incarceration dollars – the associated economic impacts to the city are enormous. To reduce costs, I initiated the Crime Control and Prevention Commission, which last year alone saved the city over $6 million and 258 prison beds per day.Specialties: Current City Council responsibilities include: