Question 1: What is a council decision that you’ve disagreed with, and why?

I believe there have been times where decisions were made without fully considering the downstream impacts on local businesses. While infrastructure improvements and development projects are important, the timing and execution can create real challenges for locally owned businesses, especially during peak seasons when they rely on consistent access and foot traffic.

As a local business owner, I’ve seen how disruptions like limited parking, access constraints, or prolonged construction can directly impact revenue and staffing. My concern isn’t with progress itself, but with how we plan and implement it.

Moving forward, I would advocate for more proactive communication, better phasing of projects, and stronger consideration of business impacts before decisions are finalized. We can continue to improve our town while also protecting the businesses that make Frisco what it is.

Question 2: What is a council decision agree with, and why?

I agree with the town’s continued investment in workforce housing. It recognizes one of the biggest challenges we face: supporting the people who live and work here.

A strong community depends on having a stable, local workforce. When employees can live in the community they serve, businesses are more reliable, service improves, and the overall quality of life increases for residents and visitors alike.

I support efforts that expand housing opportunities while maintaining balance with free-market housing. Thoughtful development that includes deed restrictions, along with policies that support long-term residents, helps ensure Frisco remains a place where people can build a life.

Question 3: Do you agree with the town’s approach to deed restrictions for workforce housing projects? Why or why not?

I support deed restrictions as an important tool, but I don’t believe they should be the only solution. They are effective at creating long-term affordability, but we also need to ensure flexibility and balance within the system.

Too many locals who are financially capable of buying a home still cannot do so in Frisco due to limited deed restricted inventory and high free-market prices.  Existing deed restriction rules need to be continually monitored and adapted if their intention does not accurately reflect reality in today’s economy.

Right now, many residents in deed-restricted housing feel stuck. They can’t easily move as their needs change. We should create better opportunities for people to transition within workforce housing, whether that’s growing families needing more space or residents looking to downsize.

At the same time, we need to continue encouraging free-market development alongside workforce housing. A balanced approach supports both community stability and economic investment.

The goal should be a housing system that is accessible, flexible, and sustainable. One that supports our workforce without limiting long-term opportunities.

Question 4: Many readers have listed cost of living as a key concern this year. How would you use your position to help folks who are struggling to pay bills and meet their necessities?

Cost of living is one of the biggest challenges facing our community, and housing is at the center of it. Increasing attainable housing options is one of the most direct ways we can make a meaningful impact.

Beyond housing, we also need to support the systems that allow people to live and work here (like childcare and stable employment). Expanding access to childcare helps families stay in the workforce, while supporting local businesses helps maintain reliable jobs.

Ultimately, helping residents manage cost of living comes down to strengthening the foundation of our community: housing, jobs, and essential services.

Question 5: Coming off of a low-snow season, with much of Summit County listed in extreme or extraordinary drought, how will you use your position to protect public safety and residents quality of life?

Drought conditions impact everything from wildfire risk to water supply and our local economy. Public safety must be the top priority.

I would support proactive wildfire mitigation efforts, including smart forest management, defensible space programs, and community education. These steps help reduce risk and protect both residents and property.

Water conservation is also critical. We should continue investing in efficient infrastructure, encouraging responsible water use, and supporting landscaping practices that are appropriate for our mountain environment.

At the same time, we need to balance conservation with maintaining the outdoor spaces that define our quality of life. Thoughtful planning can help us protect our natural resources while still ensuring residents and visitors can enjoy them.

Question 6: What are the core roles that local government should focus on?

At its core, local government should focus on maintaining a safe, functional, and livable community.

That includes essential services like infrastructure, water, public safety, and responsible land use planning. It also means addressing key community needs like housing and supporting a stable local economy.

Local government should create an environment where residents can build a life and businesses can succeed. That requires thoughtful decision-making, responsible budgeting, and policies that reflect the needs of the community.

Just as importantly, it should preserve what makes Frisco special: It’s character, natural environment, and sense of community. Growth is inevitable, but it should be managed in a way that strengthens, rather than changes, the identity of our town.

TJ Paulus is a candidate for Frisco Town Council. For all candidate columns, articles and Q&As, visit SummitDaily.com/election.