During a recent Boulder City Council meeting, community members voiced strong opinions on critical issues, including police leadership and transportation safety.

Alexi Davies, representing Community Cycles, advocated for \"Alternative B\" in the Iris Avenue improvements, emphasizing the need for safer streets for cyclists. Davies highlighted that reducing travel lanes from four to three would significantly enhance safety, as Iris Avenue is part of a high-risk network with an average of one crash per week. The proposed changes aim to calm traffic, reduce speeds, and improve conditions for both cyclists and emergency responders.

The discussion then shifted to policing in Boulder, with Casey Mendoza from the NAACP raising concerns about interim police chief Stephen Redfern. Mendoza presented survey results indicating that 72% of respondents felt Redfern was unfit for the role, citing issues such as altered call logs and a controversial history with the Aurora Police Department. Tamara Sturtz echoed these sentiments, arguing that Redfern's past actions, particularly regarding the treatment of Elijah McLean, disqualified him from leading Boulder’s police force.

Supporters of Redfern, including Lisa Spaulding, defended his qualifications, noting his role in implementing progressive policing strategies that have led to a drop in crime. Spaulding urged the council to recognize Redfern's integrity and commitment to community safety.

The meeting also touched on broader community concerns, including the need for transparency in the police chief hiring process and the importance of addressing systemic issues within law enforcement. Several speakers called for a more competitive search for the next police chief, emphasizing the community's desire for accountability and ethical policing.

As discussions continue, the Boulder City Council faces the challenge of balancing community safety, effective policing, and the need for infrastructure improvements that prioritize all residents.