Boulder is dying because of homeless problem

I just read the article, “Boulder Chamber View: Boulder’s economic future — Innovation fuels growth amid key challenges.” Is “persistent local challenges” a thinly veiled way of saying “the homeless problem”? All of the jobs and new tech companies can’t fix the fact that Boulder is dying because of the presence of the homeless, drug-addicted and mentally ill population.

I have had first-hand experience with this issue as a citizen and as a volunteer with TGTHR’s residential home for youth (I am not a NIMBY). My husband and I have been personally threatened in public spaces by mentally ill or drug-addicted persons. We have had our cars broken into numerous times, while parked in our SE Boulder driveway.

The Boulder Chamber and city officials need to grasp the seriousness of the damage that has been done to Boulder’s reputation. I have heard countless times from people who reside in neighboring areas that they will NEVER come into Boulder because of the crime, murders, drug-addicted and mentally-ill homeless population.

We are seriously considering moving. We are sick to death of seeing homeless encampments when we ride our bikes on the SoBo Creek trail. I found a guy OD’ing on the same trail and called the police. I found his black tar heroin baggie lying in the middle of the trail! The same trail middle school students use to ride their bikes to Platt MS. Enough is enough. I’m tired of pleading with the City Council. Police need the authority to jail these people (not just relocate them) to get them the help they need. We need to start talking about it or all the work being done to improve Boulder’s economic vitality won’t matter, if people don’t feel safe enough to visit and live in Boulder.

— Lawrie Bolger, Boulder

Rep. Junie Joseph is a champion of LGBTQ rights

I was disappointed by the article published about Representative Junie Joseph by the Daily Camera on March 4, 2025. Representative Joseph has consistently fought for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in Colorado. She co-sponsored Senate Bill 129, which provides additional protection for gender-affirming care, and sponsored HB24-1170 to protect the rights of incarcerated LGBTQIA+ youth — both crucial pieces of legislation.

Moreover, Representative Joseph’s bipartisan approach highlights her commitment to effective governance. She worked with Republican Representative Brandi Bradley on House Bill 1158, which ensures that digital education materials in public schools are free from harmful advertisements, prioritizing a safe learning environment for students. This bill reflects a shared commitment to student welfare, regardless of party lines.

It’s essential to recognize that legislative collaboration involves working with diverse colleagues to address complex issues. If associations with certain individuals are grounds for judgment, then by that logic, every elected Democrat in Boulder County who has worked with House Minority Leader Ty Winter — linked to the Proud Boys — would also be implicated. Representative Joseph’s collaborations should be viewed within the context of her legislative responsibilities and her dedication to her constituents.

In times when public education is under threat, the Boulder Valley School District should focus on protecting education. Representative Joseph has consistently stood up for LGBTQIA+ rights and fought against efforts to undermine public education and student welfare.

Regarding House Bill 1158, while concerns from the Boulder Valley School District are valid, protecting students from inappropriate advertisements on school devices is a goal all schools should support. A focused, distraction-free learning environment is in the best interest of students.

Representative Joseph has proven to be a leader in standing up for LGBTQ+, including the growing attacks on education, and should be supported in her efforts to keep Colorado’s values intact.

— Chris Okere, Boulder