As the April 4th city election approaches in Colorado Springs, voters are presented with opportunities to delve deeper into the platforms and visions of the candidates vying for City Council and mayoral positions. A series of events scheduled in the coming weeks aim to facilitate this engagement.
The ballot features four slots for City Council, including three at-large seats and the unexpired term in District 3. This vacancy arose following the resignation of Richard Skorman in late 2021, with his appointed replacement, Stephannie Fortune, declining to run due to health reasons. A total of eleven candidates are competing for the at-large seats, while two contenders are seeking the District 3 seat.
In the mayoral race, which marks an open seat due to Mayor John Suthers’ term limit, twelve candidates are contending for the position.
Here are the upcoming events:
Wednesday, February 22:
- Church For All Nations, located at 6540 Templeton Gap Road, will host a City Council candidate forum at 6:30 p.m., organized by the Culture Impact Team.
Thursday, February 23:
- The Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC will host the Mayoral Debate for 2023 Candidates, featuring Sallie Clark, Andrew Dalby, Darryl Glenn, Longinos Gonzalez Jr., Yemi Mobolade, Tom Strand, and Wayne Williams. The event, moderated by Sixty35 Managing Editor Helen Lewis and Gazette Editor Vince Bzdek, will commence at 5:25 p.m.
Monday, March 6:
- The Southern Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce will host “Speed Networking with the Next Mayor” from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at New Altitude Coworking & Office Space, 6385 Corporate Drive, Suite 200. Registration is required, and doors open at 4:20 p.m.
Tuesday, March 7:
- The Palmer Land Conservancy will host the “Mayoral Candidate Forum for Conservation” from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. at Ivywild School Gym, 1604 S. Cascade Ave. Candidates will discuss their perspectives on land conservation, outdoor recreation, and water in the community.
Thursday, March 9:
- The League of Women Voters and Sixty35 Media will organize an at-large City Council candidate forum from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The event will be held in person at the KRCC meeting room, 720 N. Tejon St., and will also be available online via YouTube, Facebook, and StreamYard.
Monday, March 13:
- A mayoral candidate forum hosted by the League of Women Voters and Sixty35 Media will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Library 21c event room, 1175 Chapel Hills Dr.
These events offer valuable opportunities for voters to engage with the candidates, gain insights into their platforms, and make informed decisions come election day.