Mayor Johnston on Raising Your Taxes, Crime at Natural Grocers, and Struggling Restaurants

Mayor Mike Johnston just hit his goal of getting 2,000 people off the streets before the end of the year. However, the housing fight is far from over — he’s also been hard at work pushing Ballot Issue 2R , which, if passed, would increase the city’s sales tax to fund a new affordable housing plan. But with Mile High residents already struggling with the cost of living, is a regressive tax really the answer? The mayor joins host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi for his regular check-in to make his case for higher taxes. Plus, Mayor Mike wades into the minimum wage debate, explains why he thinks adding more police officers to the force will mean fewer people of color being incarcerated, and answers listener questions about crime on Colfax and dangerous drivers. Are you going to vote for Mayor Johnston’s sales tax hike to fund affordable housing? Why or why not? We want to hear from you! Text or leave us a voicemail with your name and neighborhood, and you might hear it on the show: 720-500-5418‬ For even more news from around the city, subscribe to our morning newsletter Hey Denver at denver.citycast.fm . Follow us on Instagram: @citycastdenver Chat with other listeners on reddit: r/CityCastDenver Support City Cast Denver by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/denver Learn more about the sponsors of this October 23rd episode: Denver Public Library - RSVP to the grand Reopening here Denver Art Museum Looking to advertise on City Cast Denver? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise