Arvada Announces Finalists for Vacant At-Large Council Seat

Arvada is moving forward with the process of appointing a new at-large councilmember following Lisa Feret’s recent election to the state legislature. After reviewing a pool of 17 applicants, the City Council has narrowed the field to four finalists: Michael Griffith, Brad Rupert, Harriet Hall, and Brandon Figliolino.

Meet the Finalists

• Michael Griffith has twice campaigned for city council seats in the past, most recently in 2023. He expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to share his vision and collaborate with the council and currently sits as Chair of the Planning Commission.

• Brad Rupert brings historical perspective, having previously run for a District 2 council seat in 2007.

• Harriet Hall has experience with the Jefferson Center for Mental Health and involvement with local boards such as the Arvada Sustainability Advisory Committee. She is currently part of the team writing grants for the proposed homeless shelter at the former Early College of Arvada building.

• Brandon Figliolino currently serves on the Arvada Planning Commission as Secretary and has a history of engaging with local government policies and community development issues.

How the Finalists Were Chosen

The selection process included a detailed application reviewed over Thanksgiving weekend, with candidates evaluated based on criteria like education and prior city involvement. The top four candidates were selected based on their overall scores based on the following:

1. Educational Background

   • Relevant education in areas such as local government, leadership, teamwork, or Arvada-related issues.

2. Professional Experience

   • Work experience that demonstrates knowledge and skills applicable to City Council responsibilities.

3. Board or Committee Service

   • Prior participation in boards, committees, or commissions, showcasing experience in collaborative decision-making.

4. Availability

   • Ability to attend regular and special City Council meetings, workshops, and other commitments.

5. Willingness to Serve

   • Commitment to engaging in Council-appointed boards and commissions.

6. Participation in Training and Events

   • Indication of readiness to attend retreats, training sessions, and ceremonial obligations.

7. Interest in City Council

   • Enthusiasm and motivation to serve on the council.

8. Community Connection

   • Demonstration of ties to and understanding of the Arvada community.

9. Community Engagement

   • Active interest in supporting and improving the Arvada community.

     
     

What Comes Next

• On Dec. 13, the four candidates will participate in interviews with the City Council during a public session.

• Residents can share their feedback and preferences with the council through Dec. 10, offering valuable input into the final decision.

• The new appointee will take office on Dec. 16, serving the remainder of the term, which runs through November 2025.

Why This Decision Matters

The at-large councilmember represents the entire city, playing a key role in shaping decisions on growth, budgeting, and other important issues. This appointment is an opportunity to select a leader who will guide Arvada through its next chapter.

How to Get Involved

Arvada residents have a chance to influence this important decision. Submit your comments to the City Council and share what qualities or priorities you’d like to see in the next councilmember. Comment on the finalists either by letter to City Clerk Kristen Rush at 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, CO 80002 or email kristen@arvada.org. The deadline for public comments is 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024.  

Which candidate do you think will best represent Arvada’s needs? Stay tuned for updates and participate in the process!