A Voice for Every Neighbor

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Meet Irene Bonham

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I’m Irene Bonham, a pragmatic community advocate running for the Douglas County Home Rule Charter Commission for District I. No matter where you stand on Home Rule, this process affects us all. I’m running to make sure it’s fair, transparent, and truly reflective of our community.

What Is Home Rule?

Home Rule allows counties and municipalities to create their own governing charter, giving them more control over local decisions rather than following state statutes. In Colorado, voters authorized Home Rule governance for counties through an amendment to the State constitution in the 1970s.

Only two counties in Colorado – Weld and Pitkin – have adopted a Home Rule charter, all through voter-led efforts, not top-down government mandates.

As Douglas County considers Home Rule, it’s critical that all residents understand the issue and have a voice in shaping a government that’s fair, accountable, and truly serves the entire community.

The bottom line is that the Home Rule can provide counties greater flexibility, but it also requires careful oversight to ensure it reflects the community’s values and protects essential services.

“If this Home Rule process isn’t transparent and accountable, it will be nothing more than a power grab. The people of Douglas County deserve better.”
— Irene Bonham, Candidate for District I

Why does it matter?

Home Rule matters because it could fundamentally reshape how decisions are made in Douglas County — affecting everything from how your tax dollars are spent to how leaders are chosen and how your voice is heard. A Home Rule charter could change how elections are handled and even give county commissioners the power to appoint positions like Sheriff, Coroner, or County Clerk without a public vote.

While Home Rule can offer counties more local control, it can also be used to consolidate power, bypass public input, and quietly rewrite the rules of local government. The stakes are high. This process will decide who holds authority in our community, how transparent our government will be, and whether everyday residents, not just a politically connected few, get a real say in the future of Douglas County.

3% Cover the Fee

Chip in.

Fair representation and government transparency start with a process that reflects the entire community. Help ensure every voice is heard in the Home Rule Charter conversation.

Chip in to support a fair, open, and community-driven process.

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This is a grassroots campaign, and we need your help.

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