Close-up of a smiling woman with brown curly hair wearing a black top with intricate pink embroidery and jewelry, standing indoors with artwork and furniture in the background.

Meet Benita

I am a Fifth Generation Coloradan. I have spent the past 30+ years living, raising my family, caring for loved ones, volunteering, serving and working in Boulder.

I bring a decades-long career of public service in local government, fighting to ensure that everyone has a seat at the table and that local government reflects the communities it represents. From working to open the doors of the Denver Mayor’s office under Denver Mayor Federico Pena to working as Assistant City Manager for the City of Boulder, I bring the unique ability to bridge true community engagement with pragmatic policymaking. 

From my work on affordable housing, economic development, and homelessness, I have spent my time in Boulder volunteering and serving on Boards and Commissions including: the State Economic Development Commission, Community Foundation of Boulder County, Boulder Shelter for the Homeless, Boulder Community Health, YWCA of Boulder, Intercambio, and Attention Homes. 

Personally and professionally, I am passionate about working across Boulder’s communities, to advance and bring about real solutions on affordability - which starts with housing - in our community, while protecting our open spaces that are so central to our Boulder identity. As a long-time Boulderite, I love that we intentionally value our outdoor spaces, the arts and innovation. Through my experience with the Boulder Shelter for the Homeless, the YWCA of Boulder, and the Family Learning Center, I also know we have work to do to protect the most vulnerable in our community while ensuring that all are welcome and have a voice at the table as we move Boulder forward. 

I hold a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Colorado. My son was born while I employed as the Assistant City Manager, so my connection to Boulder has always felt unique and personal. My professional and personal life has been devoted to public service and community building.

I am a Trustee of the Boulder Library District and current Board Treasurer. I also served on the Library Commission for three years before the transition. I am the Vice Chair of the Colorado Educational and Cultural Facilities Finance Authority, (CECFA), appointed by the Governor in 2024. My B.A. in Economics and Public Affairs is from University in Denver and I hold a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Colorado.

I’m kicking off my campaign with a sense of hope and promise because I believe deeply in Boulder’s future. We can remain progressive while becoming more affordable, inclusive, economically sustainable and effective. I have the experience to help bring these pieces together.

My values in the public arena are grounded in a simple belief: good governance starts by listening to people, particularly to those voices that are too often dismissed. Listening doesn’t mean we will always agree. It means people deserve to be heard, respected and considered as we make decisions about the future of Boulder.

WHY NOW?

I’m pursuing this role — a job at the City Council table - because I want to give all I can to help this city at one of the most important moments in its history. I know serving on Council deserves serious commitment, and it will not be fun or easy. I wouldn’t be taking this step if I wasn’t fully invested in the opportunity. I am ready to take my passion for public service to a different level — with your support!

I am ultimately standing for a Boulder where working families, artists, students, immigrants, small business crafters, tech creators, and longtime residents all have a place. I want Boulder to continue leading on important issues while becoming more inclusive and accessible to everyone who calls this community home.

For me, it comes down to leadership, collaboration and practical results.

Meet me. Talk with me. Tell me what you’d like to see addressed, where you might play a role, and — most importantly — why it matters to YOU!

I look forward to meeting you, listening to you, and asking for your vote.