Name: Christen Ritchey
Office sought: Boca Raton City Council, Seat A
Campaign website: www.christenritchey.com
Date, place of birth: 12/29/1979 in Louisville, KY
Generally speaking, is Boca Raton on the right track or the wrong track, and why?
Boca Raton is generally on the right track, although we are not immune to issues created by Washington and Tallahassee. The city continues to provide strong public safety, high-quality parks, and a stable economic environment that supports property values and local businesses. However, residents are increasingly concerned about traffic, flooding, infrastructure capacity, and maintaining neighborhood character. Thoughtful planning, transparent decision-making, and continued investment in infrastructure will be essential to ensuring the city stays on a positive path. And most importantly, having the revenue and action-oriented approach needed to get results and a responsible timeline.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 1, and why? (Police headquarters, public safety improvements)
I am voting yes on ballot question No. 1. Investing in public safety infrastructure is a core responsibility of local government. Doing so will ensure our police department has modern facilities and resources helps maintain safety, supports recruitment and retention, and protects quality of life for residents. The main police station should be centrally located and enhanced to support the increased number of residents since the current station was built in 1988.
How will you vote on ballot question No. 2, and why? (Lease of downtown land, public improvements, Memorial Park)
The revised plan is responsive to what the community has demanded, but the public vote is critical in having the final say. As long as the project remains transparent and fiscally responsible, I believe strategic public-private partnerships can enhance public spaces, create long-term community benefits, and improve downtown amenities while preserving important civic areas like Memorial Park. I will vote yes.
Are you satisfied that the ballot language approved by the City Council accurately reflects the details of the ballot questions?
I believe the ballot language reflects the general intent of the questions, but I also support continued transparency and public education so residents clearly understand the scope, costs, and long-term impact of each proposal before voting. I think the language could be written better with the financial benefits included, but that is probably true of most ballot questions.
The Florida Legislature is considering proposals to reduce or eliminate property taxes. Do you agree the taxes are too high, and what tax cut proposals do you support?
Boca Raton, for the services we receive, has struck a reasonable balance on taxes. Remember, less than 25% of your tax bill is for the city, the rest is for the school district, county, and special districts. Property taxes are a concern for all residents, particularly those on fixed incomes. At the same time, these revenues fund essential services like police, fire, parks, and infrastructure. I support thoughtful, responsible tax relief that does not undermine public safety or city services. Any changes should be balanced, data-driven, and sustainable over the long term.
What most distinguishes you from your opponent(s)?
I have simply been much more involved in our community, with a far more positive approach. First, my experience serving the city from the Community Advisory Panel, the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and Boca Raton’s Planning & Zoning Board give me direct insight into how city policy affects neighborhoods, infrastructure, and quality of life.
Second, as a family law attorney and mediator I approach leadership with transparency, professionalism, and a commitment to listening and building consensus. Finally, I am not hyper-focused on one singular issue as my opponent is. I have a well-rounded view of what the City needs going forward.
List in reverse chronological order, starting with most recent, colleges and universities attended with years of attendance and degrees held.
University of Florida Levin College of Law — Juris Doctor
University of Florida — Bachelor of Science
List in reverse chronological order your work history for the past 10 years.
Johnson Ritchey Family Law, Co-Founder/Family Law Attorney — 2014 to the Present
Have you ever been a party to a lawsuit, including bankruptcy or foreclosure? If so, provide details and disposition.
No.
Have you ever been charged or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, including an adjudication of guilt withheld? If so, provide charges, dates and terms of sentence.
No.
