My name is Steven Arauza. I’m a working parent, a career public servant, and a proven labor champion living and working in Rifle. I am running as a Democrat for Garfield County Commissioner in 2024 to bring a fresh perspective, the lived experience of young families, and strong working class values into office.
The residents of Garfield County deserve to be represented by someone who understands the daily challenges faced by workers, someone with integrity who will work to build a resilient community in the face of a dynamic future. I know firsthand the increasing challenges faced by residents in our community. Every month we’re faced with difficult decisions when healthcare options are limited, expensive grocery bills are eating the monthly budget, and saving to buy a house is impossible due to continued increases in rent.
Working people make up the backbone of our economy. Families are raising our future leaders. Elders deserve to live in our community with comfort and security. We all deserve Garfield County Commissioners who will prioritize programs that allow Garfield County residents to thrive. As County Commissioner, I’ll work across all levels of government to improve access to healthcare, childcare, and mental health care to residents of our communities and promote programs that offer people a pathway to home ownership and financial security.
We need Commissioners to anticipate the future needs of our community and to be willing to make necessary changes to meet those needs. Oil and gas production remains a significant source of property taxes to the county. Having worked in oil and gas regulation for over a decade, I will bring a unique and nuanced perspective to the Board of County Commissioners. By working to identify new energy and economic opportunities for Garfield County while prioritizing training programs to meet these opportunities with our existing workforce, I will lead Garfield County to a thriving future where our jobs are secure, our economy is strong and diverse, and our health and public resources are protected.
Learn more about my campaign and support me today!
This is a grassroots campaign. Your investment will help to bring new ideas and leadership to Garfield County!
Donate Today!
Get Involved!
Sign up to volunteer!
Upcoming Events
News
-
Commission candidate column: Garfield County needs new leadership on housing
October 9, 2024: Read my column about my opponent’s voting record and the need for new leadership to address the housing crisis.
-
Garfield County Commissioner - Candidate Forum
October 4, 2024: Watch the Garfield County Commissioner Candidate Forum hosted by the Glenwood Springs Association of Realtors for a discussion among all County Commissioner Candidates centered primarily on the housing issue.
-
Garfield County Commissioner Debate
October 3, 2024: Watch the Garfield County Commissioner Candidate Debate hosted by the Colorado River Valley Chamber of Commerce on RifleTV.
-
2024 Issues and Answers Forum
September 26, 2024: Watch my televised debate with my opponent as we discuss our positions and goals for Garfield County.
-
County District 3 interview: Steven Arauza
September 25, 2024: Read a condensed version of my conversation with Amy Hadden Marsh of the Sopris Sun about why I’m running for County Commissioner and my thoughts on recent BOCC decisions.
-
Steven Arauza: Garfield County Commissioners District 3 Democratic candidate
March 7, 2024: Read my responses to policy and priority questions from the Post Independent.
-
Meet Steven Arauza: District 3 candidate for this year’s Garfield County Commissioners election
February 16, 2024: Read my interview with the Post Independent discussing my background and reasons for running.
-
Wednesday letters: Arauza for commissioner
February 7, 2024: Read my Letter to the Editor about why I am running for Garfield County Commissioner.