El Paso County, Colorado could face serious economic threats if a sudden influx of migrants strained local resources and housing, based on the situation unfolding in Denver and Aurora.
Over the past year, Denver has struggled to cope with nearly 30,000 migrants bussed from the southern border, overwhelming shelters, and services. As Denver runs out of capacity, they are now housing migrants in hotels in Aurora, displacing vulnerable locals. One man lived in an Aurora hotel for a year before being forced to live in his car when the hotel rooms were leased to house migrants. This highlights the housing crisis a migrant influx could spur, displacing residents and driving up rents.
Caring for migrants has already cost Denver over $33 million in just one year. If El Paso County had to suddenly provide food, housing, and services for thousands of migrants, it could mean diverting funds from other local needs. Denver is pleading for federal assistance. Smaller municipalities like El Paso County could experience even more acute budget strains.
Additionally, if migrants can't get work authorizations, their job prospects are limited. This could increase demand for social services and public assistance. And if migrants turn to under-the-table jobs, that could undermine local wages and tax revenue. An unexpected influx of migrants could jeopardize housing, health services, budgets, and jobs in El Paso County.
If elected, my priority is to prevent illegal migration in El Paso County. I firmly believe that we should support legal immigration and make sure that we are looking out for those who follow the rules and procedures to enter the country lawfully. We must also remain committed to upholding the public safety and security of all residents in our community. It is unfair to burden those who pay taxes and abide by our laws with the consequences of illegal immigration.
