As the Greeley election approaches, many believe that there is a pattern of poor representation among council members.
This year’s election is revolving around key figures such as the mayor, council member at large, council member Ward II and council member Ward III.
University of Northern Colorado students have discussed their displeasure in the lack of a diverse representation and have pointed out that there are no people of color on council.
This lack of diversity is not the only conversation about race in this election. Paul Wood, a council member at large candidate, has had a history of using social media to voice his opinions in ways that some see as racist and insensitive. On July 28, Wood took to Facebook with a “Paul opinion” and voiced his views without filter.
“If I was the sheriff of any border state, and I found out that a local citizen shot and killed an illegal immigrant who could be carrying COVID or who was threatening his or her life or property, I would probably turn a blind eye. Just saying,” Wood wrote.
The council member at large position is currently held by Kristin Zasada, who is not seeking re-election, has had her own run-ins with racist Facebook posts. This pattern is concerning to voters, and they are tired of public officials getting away with racism.
“It’s strange to me that now, in this day and age, we’re so comfortable being so vocal about things that we know the large majority won’t accept… and we’re gonna let you be in this position of power and hope it doesn’t make people worse than they were before,” said Maddy Carpenter, a UNC senior.
Several residents also brought up the issue regarding unclear agendas for those running. Voters feel in any election there should be easy access to the beliefs of candidates and what they are running for, yet none of the candidates seem to be vocal about why they are running or whom they will represent.
Residents do have access to the official statements of those running for a council position, but none of them list their political party. This may be an issue for some, but others see this as a new way to vote in order to ensure less bias within elections.
“It enables people to know more about issues,” said AJ Vacik, a UNC junior.
Voting will come to an end tomorrow at 7 p.m., and ballots can be dropped off at polling stations around Weld County. For more information about candidates and where to vote visit https://greeleygov.com/government/cc/elections/election-basics.
