About ME

Hi, I’m Raphael. I am running as a write-in candidate for the Boulder County Commissioner Race in District 1. I am passionate about serving my community, protecting our environment, and making much needed change on Boulder’s Board of County Commissioners. My goal is to help foster the process of policy that reflects the values of our Boulder County residents. I’ve lived in the county my whole life, and want to make a difference for the county.

I graduated from CU Boulder with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology. For the past five years, I’ve worked as a Therapeutic Housing Manager in the mental health field, helping clients transition from illness to mental stability and independence. A healthy environment is key for everyone to thrive. With a foundation in the community, I plan to work on policy that mitigates the climate crisis, preserves our natural world, supports equity, and leads the way in progressive change. I am interested in hearing  what is important to you. 

Environment

• Boulder would not be the same without its natural beauty. I will introduce policies and open-burn regulations that preserve and protect habitats, while designating areas for outdoor recreation.
• Decarbonization is crucial to our future. I will make policy changes for transitioning to renewable energies, electric vehicles, and public transportation. Additionally, I will put forth policies that incentivize changes that drive a carbon neutral platform. I will also promote reducing gas and oil extraction to the maximum extent possible and cap existing wells. 
• Pesticides have resulted in increased rates of cancer, disruption to our endocrine and nervous system, and other adverse health effects, as well as harming the ecosystem.  Defending a pesticide free environment is vital. I will take action to remove pesticide use from our open spaces. 

Affordable and Attainable Housing

• Housing must be available for both low and moderate income families. I will support legislation that moves us towards our goal of 12% affordable housing in Boulder County and prevents and reduces homelessness.

Mental Health Services

• Mental health and addiction services should be available to everyone throughout the county. It is crucial that people with mental health challenges receive appropriate treatment instead of ending up in the criminal justice system. Too often, vulnerable populations are neglected; investing in early and consistent mental health resources is more cost effective and aids the homeless population and those in low income communities. I will support a budget that prioritizes public health. More specifically, I will advocate for programs, such as the co-responder model (when law enforcement is accompanied by a clinician in response to a behavioral health crisis, leading to a reduction of harm, fewer arrests and reduced hospitalizations), addiction treatment centers, and accessibility. 

Rail 

• I support RTD's position on bringing rail to Longmont and Boulder, and adding much needed bus routes back to Longmont that were taken away during COVID.