DENVER, CO — The be well Health and Wellness Initiative celebrates the results of this week’s election, which signal major wins for healthy communities, economic opportunity, and inclusive governance across Colorado, Denver, and Aurora. Colorado: Continued Commitment to Healthy School Meals Colorado voters approved Propositions LL and MM, ensuring that the Healthy School Meals for All program will continue to thrive. These measures will:
• Provide free breakfast and lunch for all K–12 public school students.
• Support higher wages and stipends for school cafeteria workers.
• Expand school-based healthy food programs, including pantries and farmers markets.
• Prioritize Colorado-grown ingredients and reduce processed foods in school meals.
• Allow the state to use extra tax revenue to strengthen SNAP (food stamps) amid federal funding cuts.
Funding for these programs comes from limiting state tax deductions for households earning over $300,000, ensuring those most able contribute to healthy futures for all Colorado kids. Denver: Investments in Health, Equity, and Safer Communities
Denver voters approved several measures that will directly benefit community wellbeing:
• “Vibrant Denver” Bond Package: Nearly $1 billion in citywide investments for transportation, parks, housing, and health services.
• Flavored Tobacco Ban: Voters upheld the ban on flavored tobacco and vaping products with 72% support, helping protect youth from nicotine addiction.
These results represent a shared commitment to healthier neighborhoods and more accountable local government. Aurora: New Leadership and Strong Community Development Ahead
• Aurora voters supported new voices for City Council and approved the creation of a Downtown Development Authority (DDA) along the East Colfax corridor.
The DDA will help revitalize Northwest Aurora through investment, planning, and local partnerships—opening the door for stronger community-driven development across the be well zone.
Staff contact:
Samuel Valeriano
be well Policy Manager S
Valeriano@FSUCommunities.org
