Irene Bonham
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www.irenebonham.com (candidate site) www.DougCoIntegrityAlliance.com (D1 slate site)
Values & Motivation
Do you personally support or oppose the move to Home Rule? Why or why not?
I will be voting No on Home Rule personally. I do not believe that this process has been conducted transparently and with the public's best interest in mind - this is a power grab being led by the County Commissioners.
Why do you want to serve on the Home Rule Charter Commission?
I’m running because if our county is going to have this conversation about its future, it deserves to be led by people who will put the community first, ask the hard questions, and ensure every voice is heard.
Our neighbors deserve a clear, honest process and a commission that listens more than lectures. I’m committed to approaching this work with balance, pragmatism, and respect for the diverse perspectives that make Douglas County the place we call home.
This is about our future — and every one of us should have a say in shaping it.
What do you see as the most important values that should guide the charter-writing process?
Transparency, Integrity, and a community-centered approach.
Approach to Governance & Representation
How would you ensure that the charter reflects the needs of all Douglas County residents - not just those in power or politically aligned?
I believe it’s essential that the charter reflect the needs and values of all Douglas County residents — not just those in power or politically aligned. To achieve that, the process must be transparent, accessible, and accountable at every step. I would advocate for open meetings, multiple public hearings, and clear, accessible summaries of proposed charter provisions before any votes are taken. Equally important is ensuring residents know how to engage with the process and what’s at stake. That’s why I’m already soliciting questions and feedback from constituents in my district through my website, giving people a chance to share their views on Home Rule and what matters most to them. As a communications executive with over 20 years of experience in public engagement and community-centered strategy, I bring proven expertise in gathering meaningful feedback and ensuring it shapes decision-making. I’ll fight to build a charter process where every resident has a voice — and every voice is heard.
Checks and Balances
Should the County Commissioners have the power to appoint any or all elected positions such as Commissioner, Sheriff, Clerk, Assessor, Treasurer, Coroner, and/or Surveyor without a public vote as well as other boards such as library board, planning commission, water commission and others?
I firmly oppose giving County Commissioners unilateral authority to appoint elected positions like Sheriff, Clerk, Assessor, Treasurer, Coroner, or Surveyor without a public vote. These positions exist to serve the public interest, and removing them from the electoral process weakens accountability, undermines the will of the voters, and risks politicizing roles that should remain impartial and community-focused. Under a Home Rule charter, I would advocate for retaining public elections for these constitutional offices. Additionally, for boards such as the library board, planning commission, and water commission, I would push for transparent, public appointment processes that include clear qualifications, application procedures, and public input opportunities. At a minimum, appointments should require public posting of vacancies, an open application and interview process, and final decisions made in public meetings. These basic governance standards protect transparency, public trust, and fair representation — and I would fight to see them built into any charter under consideration.
Would you support or oppose charter provisions that limit the consolidation of power into the hands of a few officials?
I strongly support charter provisions that limit the consolidation of power. Douglas County’s demographics are changing, and backroom deals made by a handful of officials no longer reflect who we are as a community. It’s time for transparent, balanced leadership that’s accountable to all residents — not just a politically connected few.
Resistance to Extremism
How would you respond if fellow commissioners proposed changes that would reduce public input, centralize control, or limit democratic participation?
I’ve been standing up to bullies my whole life, and I won’t stop now. If fellow commissioners proposed changes to reduce public input, centralize control, or limit democratic participation, I’d push back — not just on my own, but by bringing the community with me. I believe lasting change happens when people come together, raise their voices, and demand better. I’d work to build coalitions of residents, civic groups, and advocates to keep the process transparent, fair, and truly reflective of Douglas County’s diverse and growing population.
Community Engagement
What specific steps would you take to engage residents across the political spectrum, including those who may not trust this process?
Earning public trust requires showing up, listening, and creating real opportunities for people to be heard — especially those who feel ignored by the system. In my current work leading community outreach for the Denver Preschool Program, I engage some of the most marginalized and underrepresented communities in our region. We build trust by meeting people where they are, partnering with trusted messengers, offering materials in multiple languages, and ensuring events are welcoming, accessible, and inclusive. I’d bring that same approach to this commission. I’d hold listening sessions in every corner of Douglas County — not just in government buildings, but in libraries, rec centers, churches, and community parks. I’d work with leaders from across the political spectrum and civic organizations to help spread accurate information and create space for honest conversations about what’s at stake. People don’t have to agree with me to know their voice matters. That’s how you rebuild trust and create a charter process that belongs to everyone.
Are there any community groups, institutions, or individuals you believe should be involved in shaping or reviewing the charter?
I believe a broad and diverse range of community groups and institutions must be actively involved in shaping and reviewing the charter to ensure it truly reflects the values and needs of all Douglas County residents. This includes neighborhood associations like the Parker Task Force and Highlands Ranch Community Association, school groups such as local PTA chapters, business organizations like the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce, civic nonprofits including AARP Colorado and the League of Women Voters, faith communities across denominations, and advocates for marginalized populations such as immigrant support groups and local disability rights organizations. In particular, engaging young families is essential. Their voices are often overlooked, yet they represent the future of our community and bring critical perspectives on education, housing, and services. Outreach efforts should include family-focused organizations like the Douglas County Early Childhood Council, childcare providers, and parent support groups to ensure the charter addresses their unique concerns. By partnering with trusted community leaders and creating multiple accessible channels for input — such as town halls, surveys, and culturally responsive forums — we can foster genuine dialogue and build a charter that is inclusive, transparent, and accountable to every corner of Douglas County.
Against home rule
YES
If home rule initiative passes, are in favor of...
Do you believe the Board of County Commissioners should retain sole authority over appointing library trustees, rather than allowing an independent library board to do so?
NO
Do you believe Douglas County should use Home Rule to opt out of the state minimum wage?
NO
Should the future Home Rule charter grant the County discretionary power to regulate local elections differently from state standards (e.g., voting access, procedures)?
NO
Do you oppose converting currently elected county positions—such as sheriff, coroner, or clerk and recorder—into appointed positions under a Home Rule charter?
YES
Do you support preserving current term limits for county commissioners and other elected officials and maintaining current campaign finance law any future Home Rule charter?
YES
In a future home rule charter, should the state, not county commissioners, retain the sole authority to approve changes to elected officials’ compensation?
YES
Do you support expanding the number of commissioners to 5, with 3 of them being elected by district and 2 at large?
YES
Are you prepared to stand alone, if necessary, to defend principles of transparency and fair representation?
YES
Is there anything else you would like voters to know?
I grew up in Rock Springs, Wyoming, a community not too different than those in Douglas County. My mom taught special education for over 30 years. My dad was an archaeologist. From a young age, my parents instilled some crucial values in me. They taught me to have a strong moral compass even when things were scary or temptation was great. They taught me to stand up to bullies for what’s right. And they taught me that our freedom is precious, but fragile, and worth fighting for. I’m a pragmatic community advocate, nonprofit leader, and proud Douglas County resident. I’ve spent over 20 years working with mission-driven organizations, helping them communicate clearly, lead responsibly, and stay accountable to the people they serve. Now, I’m stepping up to serve my own community because I believe good governance starts with listening, fairness, and transparency. As a mom raising two daughters here in Parker, I care deeply about keeping our community affordable, family-friendly, and flexible enough to meet the needs of every resident as we continue to grow. I love our open spaces and want to preserve them. I believe a community is stronger when we look out for our neighbors, even if we don’t always agree with them. As a mom, I know the decisions we make today have a significant impact on the generations that follow us. And I understand firsthand how local decisions shape the everyday lives of families, schools, businesses, and neighborhoods. That’s why it’s so important to make those decisions openly, thoughtfully, and with everyone at the table.