When Travis Leiker moved to Colorado nearly twenty five years ago, Denver was on its way to becoming a world class city. The economy was growing. New residents were moving here each month. Investing in neighborhoods was essential. The community and city leaders were united and focused on a clear vision–shaping the future of a great city.

Denver has changed, and Travis Leiker is a different kind of candidate.

Growing up, Travis moved around a lot. His father worked his way up the corporate ladder, which meant Travis attended nine schools in five states by the age of 16. During that time, Travis spent some time in the conservative south as a young, bookish, gay man. Needless to say, he was the frequent target of bullies. These experiences, coupled with the strength and confidence instilled in him by his mother, taught Travis the importance of home and why it matters to have roots in a community. His background has shaped who he is. Travis possesses a deep empathy for those who have been counted out and the determination to fight for those who have been marginalized.

Our magnificent city—the place where Travis has transplanted his roots and the community he calls home—faces unprecedented challenges. From a surge in homelessness to a housing shortage and neighborhood safety concerns and the need for investments in city initiatives, Travis Leiker is committed to rolling up his sleeves and facing these challenges head on.

But, in order to take on these challenges, we need to change how we lead. Denver does not need more elected leaders focused on building their social media brand while bringing others down. We need less policy making by Tweet, but more smart, effective government. Travis will be the first to admit that he is a bit of a wonk; he even enjoys wearing a suit and tie. Travis follows data, he makes decisions based on facts, and he brings experience to the job of city council member. Denver needs adults in the room who can make the tough calls, take on the difficult issues, and deliver results for the people of Denver.

Travis Leiker has been doing just that for nearly two decades. As senior director of development at the University of Colorado (CU), Travis has worked to grow CU’s impact through numerous public-private partnerships. Travis served six years as president of Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN), one of Denver’s largest and most effective neighborhood advocacy organizations. He led a board that transformed a nearly bankrupt nonprofit into one of the most effective, neighborhood advocacy organizations. From his role as President of the board at NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado’s board to his work at Conservation Colorado, he has fought for policies resulting in greater equity and opportunity in our city. He has never backs down from a challenge. Travis has led programs to be more effective. When organizations have been on the brink of failing, he has turned them around.

Travis Leiker will bring that same tenacity and know-how to the city council.

It is going to be hard work, but Denver will be a national model for economic growth and opportunity. Together, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of our neighborhoods through community investments. The time is now for solutions-oriented leadership and long-term, smart growth policies.

Travis believes in Denver. He believes in the rich history of our city and the need for continued progress. With your help, we will move Denver forward. Let’s get to work!