Colorado Springs
Election Day is April 1–so mark your calendar and remember to vote or be in line by 7 p.m.!
Why vote in local elections? City councils are one of the most powerful forces shaping our daily lives. They have the power to shape our futures by increasing the minimum wage, creating affordable housing, and deciding how to spend your tax dollars. It’s important to turn out and vote for the candidate who will fight for you!
How to Vote in Colorado Springs
Ballots are mailed out to all registered voters on March 7, so check your mailbox and confirm you get yours! Here are the three ways to vote and have your voice heard this election:
1. BALLOT DROP BOX.
Make sure your vote is counted by dropping off your completed ballot at a dropbox by 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1. Drop boxes are open 24/7 through 7 p.m. on Election Day. There are 29 drop boxes around town so find your nearest drop box locations here!
2. MAIL.
Another option to return your ballot is by mailing it back to your county clerk. If you choose this option, don’t forget to add stamps (we always recommend two, just in case) and put it in the mail by Monday, March 24, to ensure it arrives at the County Clerk’s Office by Election Day.
3. IN PERSON.
If you didn’t receive your ballot in the mail, need a new ballot, or need to register to vote, you can vote in person at the City Administration Building, which is located at 30 South Nevada Ave., Suite 101, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.
The hours of operation are:
- Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Election Day (Tuesday, April 1), 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
If you’re going to vote in person, remember to bring an accepted form of ID, which you can find here.
Which District do you live in?
You’ll be voting for the council member to represent you in your district.
Who to Vote For
Maryah Lauer
City Council District 3
District 3 candidate and University of Colorado – Colorado Springs alumna Maryah Lauer is a bold advocate for working people, renters, and young Coloradans. She has a deep commitment to expanding renter protections, banning algorithmic rent inflation, and preventing private equity from driving up housing costs. She is also fighting for increased government accountability and more accessibility, ensuring that all residents, especially young people, can engage in local government.
Maryah has a proven track record of grassroots organizing, including managing the successful campaign to defeat Ballot Question 2A in 2023, which stopped nearly $5 million in funding for a new police facility. She has also led efforts to support immigrant rights and created the “Garbage Gang” initiative, which provides sanitation resources to unhoused communities.
Maryah understands the financial challenges facing students and young people. Her leadership style is rooted in community engagement, progressive change, and amplifying the voices of young residents in Colorado Springs.
Chauncy Johnson
City Council District 4
District 4 candidate Chauncy Johnson has spent his life advocating for his community through organizing, legislating, and mobilizing people to create real change. At just 25 years old, his impact already surpasses those of many lifelong politicians, proving that leadership isn’t about age; it’s about action.
His work at the Colorado State Capitol has given him firsthand experience in shaping policy, holding lawmakers accountable, and making government work for the people. Johnson’s platform, centered on public safety reform, housing affordability, and innovative transportation solutions, reflects both his deep policy knowledge and his lived experience as a young leader who cares deeply about the Colorado Springs community.
From leading 2020 protests against police violence, including the killing of his close friend, to managing the campaign with Lauer to defeat 2A, to working on Prop FF in El Paso County to secure free school lunches for kids, Johnson has consistently fought for policies that improve lives.
Candidate Scorecard
- District 1
- District 2
- District 3
- District 4
- District 5
- District 6
| Candidates | Dave Donelson | Lee Lehmkuhl |
|---|---|---|
| Do you support enacting policies that limit excessive rent increases to ensure affordability for renters? | ? | ? |
| Do you support the fundamental right to reproductive health care and protecting access to and funding for abortion care and services? | ? | ? |
| Do you support setting a minimum wage for the city that is higher than the state’s $14.81/hr so people can afford their basic needs? | ? | ? |
| Do you support collective bargaining and unionization by all workers including but not limited to teachers, custodial staff, grocery store workers, and city workers? | ? | ? |
| Will you stand in solidarity with the Colorado Springs immigrant community and advocate for the community’s safety & wellbeing? | ? | ? |
| Will you be a leader in enacting policies that address the housing affordability crisis in addition to supporting statewide legislation that addresses housing affordability? | ? | ? |
| Do you support moving the date of the Colorado Springs Municipal elections from April to November to align with state and federal elections when the majority of people vote? | ? | ? |
| Do you support a statewide progressive income tax where the wealthiest people and corporations pay their fair share so that the state has adequate funding for critical services like public education, housing, and health care? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose Ballot Issue 1, which both overturns the results of Ballot Question 300 in the Nov 2024 election and makes marijuana sales illegal in the city of Colorado Springs? | ? | ? |
| Do you support putting a tax measure on the ballot that would increase public transit services and walking/biking infrastructure? | ? | ? |
| Do you support creating local programs or incentives to help residents manage or reduce student debt? | ? | ? |
| Do you support the expansion and/or reallocation of police funding to restorative justice or social programs as an alternative to traditional punitive measures? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose increasing the number of officers and funding allocated for the Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T)? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose using city resources/local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement efforts such as ICE raids, detentions, and deportations? | ? | ? |
| Will you advocate for policies that create safe, inclusive environments for queer and trans students in public schools and city spaces, ensuring their rights and identities are affirmed regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation? | ? | ? |
| Candidates | Frank Chrisinger | Tom Bailey |
|---|---|---|
| Do you support enacting policies that limit excessive rent increases to ensure affordability for renters? | ? | ? |
| Do you support the fundamental right to reproductive health care and protecting access to and funding for abortion care and services? | ? | ? |
| Do you support setting a minimum wage for the city that is higher than the state’s $14.81/hr so people can afford their basic needs? | ? | ? |
| Do you support collective bargaining and unionization by all workers including but not limited to teachers, custodial staff, grocery store workers, and city workers? | ? | ? |
| Will you stand in solidarity with the Colorado Springs immigrant community and advocate for the community’s safety & wellbeing? | ? | ? |
| Will you be a leader in enacting policies that address the housing affordability crisis in addition to supporting statewide legislation that addresses housing affordability? | ? | ? |
| Do you support moving the date of the Colorado Springs Municipal elections from April to November to align with state and federal elections when the majority of people vote? | ? | ? |
| Do you support a statewide progressive income tax where the wealthiest people and corporations pay their fair share so that the state has adequate funding for critical services like public education, housing, and health care? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose Ballot Issue 1, which both overturns the results of Ballot Question 300 in the Nov 2024 election and makes marijuana sales illegal in the city of Colorado Springs? | ? | ? |
| Do you support putting a tax measure on the ballot that would increase public transit services and walking/biking infrastructure? | ? | ? |
| Do you support creating local programs or incentives to help residents manage or reduce student debt? | ? | ? |
| Do you support the expansion and/or reallocation of police funding to restorative justice or social programs as an alternative to traditional punitive measures? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose increasing the number of officers and funding allocated for the Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T)? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose using city resources/local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement efforts such as ICE raids, detentions, and deportations? | ? | ? |
| Will you advocate for policies that create safe, inclusive environments for queer and trans students in public schools and city spaces, ensuring their rights and identities are affirmed regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation? | ? | ? |
| Candidates | Maryah Lauer | Christopher Metzgar aka Romeo Uncaged | Greg Thornton | Brandy Williams | Richard Gillit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Do you support enacting policies that limit excessive rent increases to ensure affordability for renters? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support the fundamental right to reproductive health care and protecting access to and funding for abortion care and services? | Y | Y | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support setting a minimum wage for the city that is higher than the state’s $14.81/hr so people can afford their basic needs? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support collective bargaining and unionization by all workers including but not limited to teachers, custodial staff, grocery store workers, and city workers? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you stand in solidarity with the Colorado Springs immigrant community and advocate for the community’s safety & wellbeing? | Y | Y | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you be a leader in enacting policies that address the housing affordability crisis in addition to supporting statewide legislation that addresses housing affordability? | Y | Y | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support moving the date of the Colorado Springs Municipal elections from April to November to align with state and federal elections when the majority of people vote? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support a statewide progressive income tax where the wealthiest people and corporations pay their fair share so that the state has adequate funding for critical services like public education, housing, and health care? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose Ballot Issue 1, which both overturns the results of Ballot Question 300 in the Nov 2024 election and makes marijuana sales illegal in the city of Colorado Springs? | Y | Y | N | ? | ? |
| Do you support putting a tax measure on the ballot that would increase public transit services and walking/biking infrastructure? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support creating local programs or incentives to help residents manage or reduce student debt? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support the expansion and/or reallocation of police funding to restorative justice or social programs as an alternative to traditional punitive measures? | Y | Y | N | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose increasing the number of officers and funding allocated for the Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T)? | Y | N | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose using city resources/local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement efforts such as ICE raids, detentions, and deportations? | Y | Y | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you advocate for policies that create safe, inclusive environments for queer and trans students in public schools and city spaces, ensuring their rights and identities are affirmed regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation? | Y | Y | Y | ? | ? |
| Candidates | Chauncy Johnson | Kimberly Gold | Sherrea Elliot-Sterling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Do you support enacting policies that limit excessive rent increases to ensure affordability for renters? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support the fundamental right to reproductive health care and protecting access to and funding for abortion care and services? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support setting a minimum wage for the city that is higher than the state’s $14.81/hr so people can afford their basic needs? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support collective bargaining and unionization by all workers including but not limited to teachers, custodial staff, grocery store workers, and city workers? | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you stand in solidarity with the Colorado Springs immigrant community and advocate for the community’s safety & wellbeing? | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you be a leader in enacting policies that address the housing affordability crisis in addition to supporting statewide legislation that addresses housing affordability? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support moving the date of the Colorado Springs Municipal elections from April to November to align with state and federal elections when the majority of people vote? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support a statewide progressive income tax where the wealthiest people and corporations pay their fair share so that the state has adequate funding for critical services like public education, housing, and health care? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose Ballot Issue 1, which both overturns the results of Ballot Question 300 in the Nov 2024 election and makes marijuana sales illegal in the city of Colorado Springs? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support putting a tax measure on the ballot that would increase public transit services and walking/biking infrastructure? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support creating local programs or incentives to help residents manage or reduce student debt? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support the expansion and/or reallocation of police funding to restorative justice or social programs as an alternative to traditional punitive measures? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose increasing the number of officers and funding allocated for the Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T)? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose using city resources/local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement efforts such as ICE raids, detentions, and deportations? | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you advocate for policies that create safe, inclusive environments for queer and trans students in public schools and city spaces, ensuring their rights and identities are affirmed regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation? | Y | ? | ? |
| Candidates | Nancy Henjum | Cass R Melin | Christopher Burns | Jim Muller |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Do you support enacting policies that limit excessive rent increases to ensure affordability for renters? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support the fundamental right to reproductive health care and protecting access to and funding for abortion care and services? | Y | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support setting a minimum wage for the city that is higher than the state’s $14.81/hr so people can afford their basic needs? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support collective bargaining and unionization by all workers including but not limited to teachers, custodial staff, grocery store workers, and city workers? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Will you stand in solidarity with the Colorado Springs immigrant community and advocate for the community’s safety & wellbeing? | Y | ? | ? | ? |
| Will you be a leader in enacting policies that address the housing affordability crisis in addition to supporting statewide legislation that addresses housing affordability? | Y | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support moving the date of the Colorado Springs Municipal elections from April to November to align with state and federal elections when the majority of people vote? | Y | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support a statewide progressive income tax where the wealthiest people and corporations pay their fair share so that the state has adequate funding for critical services like public education, housing, and health care? | Y | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose Ballot Issue 1, which both overturns the results of Ballot Question 300 in the Nov 2024 election and makes marijuana sales illegal in the city of Colorado Springs? | N | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support putting a tax measure on the ballot that would increase public transit services and walking/biking infrastructure? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support creating local programs or incentives to help residents manage or reduce student debt? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support the expansion and/or reallocation of police funding to restorative justice or social programs as an alternative to traditional punitive measures? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose increasing the number of officers and funding allocated for the Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T)? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose using city resources/local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement efforts such as ICE raids, detentions, and deportations? | ? | ? | ? | ? |
| Will you advocate for policies that create safe, inclusive environments for queer and trans students in public schools and city spaces, ensuring their rights and identities are affirmed regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation? | Y | ? | ? | ? |
| Candidates | Aaron Schick | Roland Rainey Jr | Parth Melpakam |
|---|---|---|---|
| Do you support enacting policies that limit excessive rent increases to ensure affordability for renters? | Y | N | ? |
| Do you support the fundamental right to reproductive health care and protecting access to and funding for abortion care and services? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you support setting a minimum wage for the city that is higher than the state’s $14.81/hr so people can afford their basic needs? | Y | Y | ? |
| Do you support collective bargaining and unionization by all workers including but not limited to teachers, custodial staff, grocery store workers, and city workers? | ? | ? | ? |
| Will you stand in solidarity with the Colorado Springs immigrant community and advocate for the community’s safety & wellbeing? | Y | ? | ? |
| Will you be a leader in enacting policies that address the housing affordability crisis in addition to supporting statewide legislation that addresses housing affordability? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support moving the date of the Colorado Springs Municipal elections from April to November to align with state and federal elections when the majority of people vote? | Y | N | ? |
| Do you support a statewide progressive income tax where the wealthiest people and corporations pay their fair share so that the state has adequate funding for critical services like public education, housing, and health care? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose Ballot Issue 1, which both overturns the results of Ballot Question 300 in the Nov 2024 election and makes marijuana sales illegal in the city of Colorado Springs? | ? | N | ? |
| Do you support putting a tax measure on the ballot that would increase public transit services and walking/biking infrastructure? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support creating local programs or incentives to help residents manage or reduce student debt? | Y | ? | ? |
| Do you support the expansion and/or reallocation of police funding to restorative justice or social programs as an alternative to traditional punitive measures? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose increasing the number of officers and funding allocated for the Police Department Homeless Outreach Team (H.O.T)? | ? | ? | ? |
| Do you oppose using city resources/local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement efforts such as ICE raids, detentions, and deportations? | Y | N | ? |
| Will you advocate for policies that create safe, inclusive environments for queer and trans students in public schools and city spaces, ensuring their rights and identities are affirmed regardless of their gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation? | ? | ? | ? |
Candidate Q & A
Learn more about the candidates! Check out the Q&A for the candidates in your district to learn more about them, their top priorities, and the ways they’ll fight for you if elected.
Candidates who did respond:
Maryah Lauer – District 3
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
3.5 years
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
Housing
- Expand renter protections
- Ban landlords from using algorithmic software to price fix and inflate rents
- Guarantee free legal representation to residents facing eviction
Protect housing stock
- Restrict the purchase of housing stock by private equity and investment firms
- Require people to primarily reside in housing used for short-term rentals such as Airbnb
Local Government Accountability and Accessibility
- Raise City Council pay to a living wage to enable working-class residents to serve their community
- Convene City Council meetings at times beyond the typical 9-5 workday, thereby allowing more residents to participate in their local government without missing work or school
- Respect the democratic outcome of ballot questions
Public Safety
- Create alternative crisis response teams of paramedics and social workers to respond to mental health calls
- Expand the Fire Department’s Homeless Outreach Program
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
- I managed the successful grassroots campaign to defeat ballot question 2A in 2023, which would have allocated nearly $5M in seed funding for a new police training facility.
- I created a Colorado Springs DSA project called ‘garbage gang’ which picks up trash from homeless camps while providing basic supplies. The goal is to get the city to provide basic sanitation services to unhoused people, rather than stealing what they rely on for survival.
- I have helped organize various actions in support of immigrant rights, such as a protest when the City Council was passing an anti-sanctuary city resolution.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
I’m privileged enough to own my home, but I’m very aware it’s due to three factors; my workplace unionized which led to me becoming staff instead of a contractor, the student loan pause allowed me to pay down debt, and I lived with my in-laws rent free for three years.
I will work to support the development of a city-wide tenants union as much as possible, as well as using my office to inform renters of their rights. I will also try to curtail the power of developers however I can to address the housing crisis and high rents.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
I’m an alum of University of Colorado Colorado Springs and currently know many faculty there. I was a student worker in the Office of Sustainability as well.
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
The largest barrier is the absurd $6,250 annual stipend that City Council receives, which is designed to prevent young, diverse and working class people from running. City Council regular meetings occur at a time that many young people are at school or work, and there is only a 3 minute public comment to engage. These are two crucial pieces of my platform, and I also want to introduce participatory budgeting to the city.
Greg Thornton – District 3
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
12 years
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
I would concentrate on protecting our parks and open spaces and adding to them when opportunities present themselves. Our park system is vital to the health and wellness of our city and continued growth and attracting new citizens and industry.
Secondly, speaking of growth, I would protect our older neighborhoods from the ADU (Alternative Dwelling Units) growth and densification. I would allow the downtown area to continue its’ growth, but am concerned about the city losing her historical character and would support a vote on building height restrictions if the voters want that.
Thirdly, relating to density, I would improve drastically our fire mitigation efforts and our evacuation modeling. We also have a quarter of our residents signed up for emergency alerts. We need to double or triple those numbers. This is our biggest threat to the City. We could easily have the same results as Los Angeles if we don’t improve all these efforts and more.
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
- I have served on the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Citizen Advisory Board for the last six years.
- I led the adoption of a section of the Midland Trail and have been doing cleanups there for over 8 years. I also pick up trash at Memorial Park on a regular basis.
- I advocated for the Velodrome to not be closed or reduce their hours. Happily, they finally negotiated with the City, USOTC, and Cycling USA and are now offering more programs for kids and adults. The Velodrome is literally where champions are made.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
I am currently renting, which I am pretty sure would make me the only Councilmember that would be doing so. I will fight for affordable housing throughout the city, particularly downtown where one can move about if you don’t have or choose to have a vehicle.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
No, other than my son attended Pike Peak for a while.
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
I’m not so sure there are barriers. You have social media skills beyond what people my age have in most cases. You have energy. I think the only thing holding young people back is a feeling that whatever you do, it won’t make a difference. That is a fallacy. I see young voters in Colorado vote in far higher amounts than nationwide. That is half the battle. Keep voting and you will get a seat at the table.
As a first-time candidate, I know how hard it is to jump in this maelstrom called politics. Your ideas are fresh and needed. Let’s face it. The Boomers messed up this world in many ways. If you want change, it’ll have to come from you. Be brave, go out on a limb, run for office! Do it with compassion and integrity and you’ll be rewarded.
Christopher Metzgar aka Romeo Uncaged – District 3
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
12 years
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
Allowing recreational MMJ in city limits. Parking situation in District 3. Downtown Business Taxes and extra fees.
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
I have attended multiple demonstrations, I have hosted advocacy groups at the club that I manage, I attend every community event possible.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
I own my home. I have been a renter for many years though and fully understand the difficulties involved. I am not a supporter of Rent Control. I believe the current rent situation in our community stems from bigger issues within our economy. Those issues will need addressed even at the smallest level in order to start seeing changes in our economy.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
I am a former Olympic team member so I have an affiliation with the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs.
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
Young people can often be intimidated by intentionally confusing writing methods on important issues on our ballots. These need simplified and spelled out. We also need more accurate information distributed from our City Council via methods such as social media. Currently the City Council puts out a printed annual report. Our younger generations are prefer digital publications that are more easily shared.
Chauncy Johnson – District 4
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
25 years
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
My top three policy priorities that I will focus on accomplishing are Public Safety, Housing, and Transportation. This means holding law enforcement accountable while deterring lawsuits. Ensuring housing is affordable and adequately built. Finally, looking at innovative ways of transportation, whether that is new routes, cleaner buses for eco emissions, etc.
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
My first example of demonstrating advocacy for my community is when I had the opportunity to lead protest here in 2020 to shed light on the slaying of Black lives in America, while shedding light on a police involved shooting that killed a community member and individual I knew personally. Second, working on Prop FF in El Paso County to help get free school lunch for kids. Finally, helping lead the campaign on 2A to stoping the city from using taxpayer money to build a Police Training Academy.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
I live with my great grandfather who I help take care of with my brother. He is still paying a mortgage, which me and my brother help towards the budget to help out with bills. So, I would put myself in the rent category.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
I did attend for about two years the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
I think the barriers for young people participating in local civics or the political process, is not seeing someone that reflects their generation. I would also say fundraising is always an issue that I’ve seen with other young people running across the country.
Nancy Henjum – District 5
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
34 years
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
As I build on my first term in City Council, my top policy priorities are related to our city’s single most important issue: growth, which impacts housing, neighborhoods, public safety, parks and open space, among other aspects of our lives here. Growth brings opportunities (like more jobs and amenities) but also challenges, especially when it comes to housing and impact on neighborhoods. I favor a balanced approach to development that rejects so-called “flagpole” annexations that compromise public safety by increasing emergency response times for everyone and threaten resources like our non-renewable water supply. I will continue to support annexations that remove County enclaves in our city as well as appropriate densification (like the redevelopment of The Union Printers Home, the Launchpad, and the 2525 Concord Street Infill Project) that increases our stock of housing. I will continue to advocate to address the extensive backlog we have of maintenance to our parks and open spaces. And I will prioritize potential legislation or improve our city’s waste management systems with an environmental focus.
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
I have had the incredible opportunity to advocate for a variety of community concerns in my first four years on Council. Working with the support of four Mayor’s Fellows, a key priority of mine in the latter half of my first term was addressing the need for revitalization of the Citadel Mall. I facilitated various gatherings of community members that have catalyzed positive impacts to the Mall including removal from an off limits order to the military. I have advocated for and with OneBody ENT whose mission is to serve youth and adults by helping prevent criminal offenses and re-offenses through their network. I care deeply about the environment and have advocated for increased multi-modal transportation, improvements in our trails and open space system by hosting events like Legacy Loop rides with Allen Beauchamp of the Trails and Open Space Coalition. I meet with and continue to uplift the work of the Homeless Union and other homeless-related organizations to address system needs such as more public restrooms.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
It is correct that renters are not often represented on City Council, largely because with an annual stipend of $6,250, Councilmembers are typically retired or run their own businesses, circumstances that often go with owning a home. My husband and I have owned and lived in the same house in Colorado Springs for well over 30 years—though I’ve rented earlier in my life and know the challenges. Unfortunately, some of the factors at play here are those that a City Council generally can’t affect: inflationary pressures, interest rates, and ballooning construction and insurance costs. A recent article in the Gazette also noted that “El Paso County and the nation continue [to experience] a housing shortage the market hasn’t yet built itself out of after a national pause on homebuilding between 2008-2012, during and following the Great Recession.” But this doesn’t mean Council can do nothing. Far from it. Council’s main power in this area is to approve good development plans that increase housing stock, especially those with measures to increase attainability. In terms of my own record, for example, I championed and worked to pass legislation that incentivizes local builders in various ways to provide more affordable housing. Infill projects often produce such rental properties. The recent densification in our downtown has generally been a good thing. There are some signs that the market may be a little overbuilt, and we are seeing moderation of rents in some areas.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
As the Representative for District 5 for the past four years, I have worked directly with the leadership and students of Pikes Peak State College, UCCS, Colorado College and The Air Force Academy in various contexts.
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
Elected officials need to listen to young people – and not assume we know anything for sure! During my first term, I’ve prioritized reaching out to our younger residents, including students. In various forums, I’ve met with students at and from UCCS, Colorado College, the Deaf and Blind School, Pikes Pike State College, Coperni 3 Middle School, and Palmer, Mitchell, and Doherty high schools. School groups and individual students have also come to City Hall to discuss the work of local government and how they can be involved. Connecting, showing interest, and genuinely listening are ways elected officials can show young people we care and want to be responsive. This may not be obvious, but one barrier has to do with Council pay (mentioned previously). Few young adults can afford to serve (none are serving now), and this means their concerns are rarely at the forefront of discussions in City Hall. (Please note: Even if a living-wage-for-Councilmembers initiative were to gain traction, it would come too late to benefit me personally.) That said, Council does hear from younger adults, who write to us or make comments during Council meetings. I’m very pleased to welcome them, and I always respond to individual messages. It’s important to vote and to stay engaged in local government, which often has more impact on the daily life of residents than national politics which get more attention. Many decisions that Council makes will affect lives for years to come.
Elected officials need to listen to young people – and not assume we know anything for sure! During my first term, I’ve prioritized reaching out to our younger residents, including students. In various forums, I’ve met with students at and from UCCS, Colorado College, the Deaf and Blind School, Pikes Pike State College, Coperni 3 Middle School, and Palmer, Mitchell, and Doherty high schools. School groups and individual students have also come to City Hall to discuss the work of local government and how they can be involved. Connecting, showing interest, and genuinely listening are ways elected officials can show young people we care and want to be responsive. This may not be obvious, but one barrier has to do with Council pay (mentioned previously). Few young adults can afford to serve (none are serving now), and this means their concerns are rarely at the forefront of discussions in City Hall. (Please note: Even if a living-wage-for-Councilmembers initiative were to gain traction, it would come too late to benefit me personally.) That said, Council does hear from younger adults, who write to us or make comments during Council meetings. I’m very pleased to welcome them, and I always respond to individual messages. It’s important to vote and to stay engaged in local government, which often has more impact on the daily life of residents than national politics which get more attention. Many decisions that Council makes will affect lives for years to come.
Aaron Schick – District 6
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
Grateful for all 15 years here.
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
- Keeping taxes as low as possible while boosting safety and police.
- Revealing and ending corruption.
- Representing the actual tax payers in district 6 as opposed to selling out to special interest groups. (See number 2)
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
- I have spoken before city council regarding land use issues and met with HOA’s. I have seen the corruption first hand and am prepared to counter it at every step.
- I have met with citizens and organized groups to speak out against certain land use issues. I am part of 2 of such groups right now. We need to take this up a notch and get people in office who can make a difference.
- I am and always will stand for lower taxes while maintaining the highest levels of crime prevention and critical services.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
I have both owned and rented here in Colorado Springs. I will represent renters by hearing and learning from them as well as properly representing the renters voices in my community. 40% is a lot, renters should be given an equal voice.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
I have no past affiliations with our fine universities in town. I hope to continue my education at one of these in the future, and am grateful for seeing and being part of events at these in the past.
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
Being fairly young myself I feel it is mainly the opportunity cost associated with extremely low compensation in this position. Not paying a livable wage for politicians service was intended to bring only good intentioned people and ideas. The exact opposite is what has happened – Special interest groups are effectively “buying” these seats for people who will represent them. That is what the system seems to be set up to do. This can be fixed by offering a competitive wage to the role. This will greatly affect young people participating in public positions. This problem is economic and can be solved by using economics.
Roland Rainey Jr – District 6
How long have you lived in the district that you are running to represent?
17 Years
What are your top three policy priorities that you will focus on accomplishing if elected to city council? Be as specific as possible.
- Public Safety and enhancing our Emergency Operations Center; our law enforcement agencies must be supported with adequate resources to protect our families and neighborhoods so we can become the Safest City in America!
- Work with City Planning Commission, home builders, and other designated local groups to identify ways to ensure infrastructure remain in lock-step with our city growth. I want to help lead the completion of the Marksheffel expansion effort.
- Continue to work with our Congressional members to advocate and craft legislation to keep US Space Command here in Colorado Springs, while supporting our military families.
Please provide three specific examples of ways you have demonstrated advocacy for community issues you care about.
- Continuously participate in town hall sessions and advocate for our law enforcement. I also was appointed by the Governor to the 4th Judicial District Nominating Commission to vet, interview, and nominate judges to uphold the law in El Paso and Teller Counties.
- I volunteer and fulfill the role of Chairman, Pikes Peak Area Council of Government Community Advisory Committee to advise and recommend appropriate courses of action to the PPACG Board of Directors on regional issues directly related to transportation, water, military and community land use.
- I drafted legislation language for Congressman Crank to articulate to the President’s administration on why US Space Command should remain in Colorado Springs.
About 40% of Colorado Springs residents rent their home yet those perspectives are often not represented on City Council. Do you rent or own your home? What will you do to represent and advocate for the interests of renters on city council?
A fluctuating economy and inflation has driven the high costs in the housing market, which I believe we all understand at this point, but how do we combat this issue? First, let’s understand affordable housing is a market driven issue and we need to allow the free market to operate and answer the supply and demand of affordable housing with the least amount of government interference. In addition, various Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs will help low-income households locate affordable housing and pay for rent.
Do you have any association with any of the universities in Colorado Springs, such as being a current or former student, alumni, or employee? If so, what are those associations?
Graduate of University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS), 2017, awarded Masters of Art Degree in Counseling and Leadership Development, 3.91GPA
What do you think are the barriers for young people to participate in local civic and political processes in your district and what will you do to address those barriers?
Young people feel they are not being heard. Thus, this leads to disengagement from local government issues. I aim to establish relationships with political youth organizations and build an education platform that chips away at participation barriers.
Candidates who refused to respond:
- District 1: Dave Donelson, Lee Lehmkuhl
- District 2: Frank Chrisinger, Tom Bailey
- District 3: Brandy Williams, Richard Gillit
- District 4: Kimberly Gold, Sherrea Elliot-Sterling,
- District 5: Cass R Melin, Christopher Burns, Jim Muller
- District 6: Parth Melpakam
Remember: In Colorado, it is never too late to register to vote. You can register to vote or update your registration online by March 23 here to receive your ballot in the mail.
After that, you’ll need to register in person at the Colorado Springs Administration Building. Just be in line by 7 p.m. on Election Day.