UPDATE: Alex Kalkhofer has emerged as the only candidate for Longmont’s Ward 3 special election, following the 5 p.m. deadline on December 18, 2023. The City Clerk’s office confirmed that Kalkhofer submitted the necessary nomination petitions, securing 30 verified signatures from local voters.
The urgency surrounding this development comes as city officials deliberate whether to proceed with the special election or cancel it altogether. Longmont Communications Director Lindsay Diamond stated that a decision on the election’s status will be made public by December 30, 2023. “This topic is currently under legal review,” Diamond explained, emphasizing that an official resolution will clarify if the election can advance with a single candidate.
Candidates for Longmont’s ward positions must gather signatures from at least 25 qualified electors residing in their respective wards. Despite receiving an additional petition, which was not verified since the required signatures were already met, Kalkhofer remains the sole contender.
Kalkhofer, who has lived in Ward 3 since 2008 and currently chairs the city’s Transportation Advisory Board, previously finished as the runner-up in the city’s at-large council race with 14.6% of the vote. He expressed gratitude for the community’s support and eagerness to serve, stating, “If all goes well, and the 30th comes and goes and I’m the one, then I’m excited and ready to roll up my sleeves.”
This election was prompted by the vacancy left after former Councilmember Susie Hidalgo-Fahring was elected mayor in November. If the election is indeed canceled, Kalkhofer will be appointed to fulfill the remainder of Hidalgo-Fahring’s term, which extends to November 2027.
As Longmont awaits clarity on the election process, residents remain engaged and hopeful for their community’s leadership. The city’s decision on the election will be pivotal for local governance and community representation.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the December 30 deadline approaches.
