The League of Women Voters believes that democratic government depends upon informed and active participation in government. In order to work on that principle, the League forms teams that study various issues and topics. The topic teams then use the information to educate other members, the public, establish positions and take action.
Every year in January our members meet to propose topics for discussion to form teams for the following year. Questions that are asked about any proposed topic include (1) there something in this topic that the Jefferson County League can influence (2) is this topic relevant? The Board culls the proposed topics and presents to membership at the Annual meeting a list of proposed topics for the coming year, which membership ratifies.
Want to learn more about a topic? Join one of our teams!
Ongoing Topic Teams
Immigration: The Immigration Team is exploring different facets of immigration. Last year we dispelled the myth that it is easy to become a US Citizen. We also devoted a unit meeting to a topic called the Invisible Wall which explored the ongoing administrative changes being made to immigration. Congress is the only entity that can make permanent long-term changes to immigration. This year the team is evaluating some of the proposals for change. The Immigration team is also considering a panel discussion. Kathy Fleming (flemingkl49@gmail.com) is the team Leader.
Special Districts: How is Colorado structured so that we have all these special taxing districts. The Special Districts team was tasked with researching special districts in general and in specific Jefferson County. Units will be asked to conduct research located within their areas, looking for potential voter activity. Jane Cates janegcates@gmail.com and Bette Seeland blseeland@yahoo.com are the team leads.
Jeffco Budget: Last year the voters of Jefferson County failed to pass A-1 which would have exempt Jefferson County from TABOR. The initial proposal for this team was to explore the effects of this action by the voters on the Jefferson County Budget. Covid will be affecting the county budget as well. This team will be an important source of information for county actions. This team is just forming please contact Marg Gostic marfra29@comcast.net to participate.
Housing Team: The housing team is charged this year with discussing the housing situation for the mentally ill. The housing team has also been working on a video about low income housing. Jill Armstrong jarm444@gmail.com is the contact person for housing.
Education Team: The education team has been dormant for the three years. However, there will be a search for a new superintendent, budget issues and of course how the schools are reacting to COVID. If you are interested in being part of an education team let Christina Manthey camanthey@gmail.com know.
New Topic Teams Forming
Other topics that were proposed and approved at the annual meeting are:
Review of the League’s positions and advocacy efforts
The Regional Transportation District and public transportation in Jefferson County
Explanation of the Rule of Law
Gun Safety
Outdoor Recreation Industry and its effect on Jefferson County
Voting Rights - voter suppression, election integrity and gerrymandering (Redistricting in Colorado) advocacy
If you are interested in being a member of a team on any of these topics please contact Christina Manthey or the office.