John Glenn
Non-partisanQ1 What advisory mechanisms will you implement to ensure that evidence and scientific findings play a crucial role in your policymaking process?
“I recognize that the RTD Board does not control agricultural or water policy, but I believe public agencies should make evidence-based decisions that protect our natural resources.
Colorado farmers face growing pressure from water scarcity, rising costs, and development. Smart growth and transit-oriented development can help reduce sprawl, preserve agricultural land, and make better use of existing infrastructure.
As an architect, I look at how transportation, housing, land use, and economic development are connected. I would bring that systems-based approach to the RTD Board and support investments that help RTD work better while contributing to a more sustainable Colorado.”
Q2 Colorado farmers are facing multiple threats, amidst water scarcity and rising prices for fertilizer and other imported materials. As agriculture is our #1 export sector, in what ways do you imagine using your role to support evidence-based advancements to protect and support our farmers and natural resources in the years ahead?
“As a candidate for the RTD Board, I want to be clear about what this position can and cannot do. RTD does not set agricultural or water policy. But transportation, land use, economic development, and natural resources are deeply connected, and public agencies should consider those connections in every major decision.
Colorado’s farmers face growing pressure from water scarcity, rising costs, and the loss of agricultural land to development. One way RTD can help is by supporting smarter growth. Investing in reliable transit and encouraging housing and development near existing infrastructure can reduce sprawl and help preserve agricultural land and open space.
As an architect, I have spent my career thinking about how individual decisions affect entire systems. I believe public policy should be grounded in evidence, long-term planning, and measurable outcomes—not ideology or short-term politics.
On the RTD Board, my primary responsibility would be making transit work better. But I would bring a broader perspective to that work. How we invest in transportation affects where we build, how we use land, and the resources we consume.
I want to help build a more sustainable Colorado for future generations.”
Q3 America has a growing AI industry, supporting cutting-edge innovation but raising issues of resource use, privacy, and economics. What is the right balance of costs and benefits for new data center construction in Colorado, and how would your policies accomplish that balance?
“Colorado should welcome innovation, but growth cannot come at any cost. We need to honestly evaluate the impacts on water, energy, land, and surrounding communities—and ensure the economic benefits justify those costs. Unfortunately, I don’t think the RTD Board has much oversight in this area.
As an architect, I believe good development requires looking at the entire system and planning for long-term impacts. While the RTD Board does not regulate data centers, transportation and land use are closely connected. I would support smart growth that makes the best use of existing infrastructure while protecting Colorado’s natural resources.”