EDITORIAL: Hillman for treasurer.(Editorial)

Sep. 20--COLORADO VOTERS will elect a new state treasurer in this year's election. Seeking the position are Cary Kennedy, a Democrat, and Mark Hillman, a Republican.

Mr. Hillman is the clear choice.

A staffer for former Gov. Roy Romer. Ms. Kennedy has worked on a number of state issues, including Amendment 23 and Referendum C.

Mr. Hillman is one of the bright stars in Colorado public service. A wheat farmer from Burlington, he made his mark early as a state senator from District 1, which encompasses a great swath of Southeastern Colorado. He fast became regarded as one of the most thoughtful, hard-working legislators in recent memory.

While serving as Senate minority leader, he was known for his bipartisan approach in getting legislation passed. For example, he teamed with Rep. Buffie McFadyen of Pueblo West to sponsor legislation giving preference to state agricultural products when all other factors are equal.

He sponsored legislation creating the "Hall of Shame" which posts on the Internet the names of people who avoid paying their state taxes. He also was sponsor of legislation to preclude lawsuits against the food and drink industry by people claiming those businesses caused their obesity.

Mr. Hillman already has experience running the State Treasury. In 2005 Gov. Bill Owens named him acting treasurer during the leave of absence taken by Treasurer Mike Coffman who did his second stint of military service in the Middle East. Mr. Hillman served that office well.

As state treasurer, Mr. Hillman will serve on the board of the Colorado Public Employees' Association overseeing state retirement funds. He's a firm believer that that program needs to be on sound financial footing to protect state employees' pensions so the funds are secure when retirement comes.

We urge voters to elect Mark Hillman state treasurer.

Copyright (c) 2006, The Pueblo Chieftain, Colo.

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