Republican nominee for Colorado Senate District 5 Marc Catlin grew up on a farm in Montrose County. Since 2017, he has served as the state representative for House District 58. His career has included managing the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users’ Association, a stint as a radio host of “Diversions” on KUBC AM — a talk show intersecting water, business and agriculture — and, most recently, as the Water Rights Development Coordinator for Montrose County.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Senate District 5 (SD5) covers a lot of diverse and rural areas. How do you plan to balance the needs of agricultural communities with the demands of growing resort economies?
I’ve represented resort communities like Telluride and Crested Butte. While their needs may differ slightly from rural areas, the key issues — housing, cost of living — are the same. I listen to what my constituents need and work to represent all voices.
What specific policies would you advocate for to make housing more affordable in SD5?
I believe folks in local communities need to sit down together to address workforce housing. It’s about sitting at the table and determining who has land, water taps and what can be done. Once those needs are clear, we can look to the state for grants and funding. Also, we should focus on building more attainable starter homes, not just larger, expensive ones.
What is your approach to protecting Western Slope water rights, and how would you collaborate with other legislators on this issue?
I have decades of experience working in water and agriculture, so I’d continue that work in the Senate. As vice chair of [the Agriculture, Water and Natural Resources Committee], I’ve worked on bipartisan bills like the Colorado Water [Conservation Board] Projects and the [Annual] Species Conservation Trust [Fund Projects]. I’m focused on policies that are good for the state and protect our water resources, and I’ve built relationships to get these things done.
How do you plan to address rural Colorado healthcare?
We passed a bill to bring healthcare professionals to rural Colorado while they get licensed, which improves access and affordability. Clinics in rural areas will also play an increasing role in providing healthcare, and we need more doctors and nurses in these communities.
If elected, how do you plan to work across the aisle?
I’ve always worked across the aisle, writing bills and finding Democratic co-sponsors. Protecting Western Slope water isn’t a partisan issue, and my relationships built over eight years in the legislature will help me continue this work in the Senate.
What are your priorities in terms of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability?
We need to keep water in our rivers, which is why I support purchasing the Shoshone water rights. Environmental health is tied to economic success, especially in our tourism-driven areas. I’ve passed bills like the Turf Replacement Program to save water and keep it in the environment.
What is your position on reproductive rights?
I support life, but I believe in exemptions for rape, incest and the health of the mother. These are personal decisions, and I hope Colorado can reach a consensus on these issues without continuing to battle over them.
What are your plans for economic diversification?
We need more jobs in all communities, not just resort areas. We’re working on a just transition in places like Garfield County, but we need to do better at replacing lost jobs with ones of equal quality and pay to help these communities get a leg up.
How do you plan to leverage political and working relationships to help effectively represent the district’s constituents?
I have eight years of legislative experience, and during that time I’ve built relationships that will help me be an effective representative for the district. I’m focused on common sense, not change for change’s sake. I love this part of the state — it’s my home — and that connection drives my dedication to serving this district.