Election Day is April 1st — this is a mail only election and ballots must be received by 7pm on Election Day! Last day to return by mail is 3/25, or find a secure drop box anytime, and make sure your voice is heard. If you don’t receive your ballot you may request a replacement at the City Clerk’s office at 30 South Nevada Ave. Voters with audio or visual impairments should also go to the Clerk’s office to use an accessible voting machine.
Only the six districted council seats are up for election this year; no at-large seats will be on your ballot, and there are no ballot questions in this year’s election.
Colorado Springs City Council makes many impactful decisions about our everyday lives, on issues like housing, utilities, transportation, public safety, and more. Councilmembers are limited to two four-year terms and serve without pay, but receive a small stipend of $6,250 per year.
Candidates were offered five possible questions and asked to respond to three of their choosing. No edits were made by Citizens Project except to shorten responses over the maximum word count.
Questions Issued to Candidates:
Q1: What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Q2: Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
Q3: Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
Q4: What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
Q5: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities are often neglected in considerations for city development. How do you plan to ensure these communities are included when managing city growth?
District 1 – Dave Donelson
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Transparency in Governance means ensuring that the process of policy formation and decision making is open or “transparent” to citizens. There are some state and local laws that attempt to ensure this — the “sunshine” and “open meeting” laws requiring noticing of meetings and not more than two council members to discuss policy items outside of a noticed meeting. I personally hold District town halls quarterly, answer emails, return phone calls and meet with constituents individually to discuss issues that they are interested in. Yesterday, I met and walked with a constituent who is concerned with the creek along Sinton Trail.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
I worked with a “marginalized or underserved” neighborhood just south of Platte Ave and just west of Academy. There was a bar that faced onto Platte which had had a series of shootings and car and motorcycle racing on the street just behind the bar which houses from the neighborhood were on. There had been shootings and deaths on that street. I worked with those neighbors, located an attorney who worked “pro bono” (for free) to represent them in Municipal court, and I went and testified on their behalf. We eventually got the bar shut down.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
In a recent letter to the editor of the Gazette I was referred to as “the honorable Dave Donelson, Councilman for the people”. I have a reputation as the council member who listens to the citizens, answers their emails, and takes their side in issues before city council. This has happened on many issues but here are two more examples (besides the one above) — working with citizens (Bon neighborhood) to stop a four lane extension of Constitution from going through their neighborhood, and working with citizens to try to get a downtown building height limit on the ballot.
District 1 – Lee Lehmkuhl
I was commissioned into the Air Force as a Second Lieutenant where I served as a Scientific Analyst. The Air Force then sent me to graduate school where I earned a Master of Science in Operations Research from the Air force Institute of Technology and a Doctor of Science in Operations Research from George Washington University. During my time in the Air Force I put my mathematics background to work doing applied research for issues ranging from inventory control to the real time movement of forces in combat theatres across the globe.
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensur your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Transparency is a relationship and trust building process. This means being available and proactive in reaching out to constituents. I will be a City Councilor who is in consistent communication with residents, responds to input, and makes sure dialogue runs both ways.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
I have volunteered for 5 years in the area of suicide prevention. I presently serve on the County Suicide Prevention Collaborative and on the State Commission for Suicide Prevention as the Commissioner for Active US Military and Veterans. This is a crisis that disproportionately impacts marginalized and underserved communities and is an issue I will continue to elevate and call attention to on City Council.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
I am committed to holding regular townhall meetings and proactively reaching out to constituents to receive feedback on the issues that come before city council. Accountability means not shying away from the tough conversations, but leaning into them and ensuring every voice in the City is heard when it comes to the decisions city council makes.
District 2 – Frank Chrisinger / Tom Bailey
Candidates did not reply prior to press deadline.
District 3 – Brandy Williams / Richart Gillit
Candidates did not reply prior to press deadline.
District 3 – Maryah Lauer
Grassroots organizer, Friends of the Earth US Campaign manager, Stop Cop City COS
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Transparency means information about governmental decisions and processes is readily available to the public. It also means that constituents should have equal access to elected officials, rather than prioritizing donors or special interests. I intend to share my calendar so residents know what events I’m attending, host frequent town halls and listening sessions, and continue to knock doors after the election to speak directly with voters regularly.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
I helped organize the Chinook Center into an emergency warming shelter a year ago for unhoused people. We were not equipped initially to temporarily shelter dozens of people. We were lacking resources and volunteers, so we put out a request and received donations which allowed us to buy food and other supplies. We also created a calendar for meal donations and volunteer shifts, and asked people directly to volunteer or contribute. We successfully kept several dozen people alive in the Arctic freeze through old fashioned organizing methods.
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities are often neglected in considerations for city development. How do you plan to ensure these communities are included when managing city growth?
I think all development projects should require a community benefits agreement, which would provide predominantly BIPOC communities the opportunity to advocate for their own interests and priorities by negotiating a legally binding contract. If buy-in is a requirement at the beginning of a project, it ensures people aren’t forgotten or ignored.
District 3 – Greg Thornton
30 years experience in the financial services industry along with 6 years of service on the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Citizen Advisory Board.
ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Firstly, as the only candidate refusing developers or any dark money, I want the electorate to know that I will be impartial whenever any large development or annexation proposals come before cancel. Secondly, I will recuse myself from any business involving any citizen who donated to my campaign.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
I will hold regular town hall meetings, “cruising with Council” bike rides or hikes, and always be accessible via email, phone, or if you see me out and about in town.
District 3 – Christopher Metzgar
I am not a politician. I am a long time District 3 resident, a business owner, a former Marine, a former professional athlete, and an entertainer.
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
The City Council board member is supposed to represent the voters and residents of their district. That means that they are supposed to listen to the issues, and resolve these issues in a manner agreeable to the residents. There should never be a case of the city council NOT upholding any proposition voted on a ballot. In my opinion, our current city council is not doing their duties. As the District 3 City Councilman, I plan to DO WHAT THE VOTERS WANT. It’s really that simple.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
In the past I have worked with several organizations to help move and clean up homeless camps in and around our city. I also am a part of the local LGBTQIA+ community where I manage a Safe Space club (La Burla Bee) for our city’s nightlife. I have been the spokesperson at several charity events for Bisexuality Awareness as well as charity events for Pikes Peak Pride. I have also consulted for Pikes Peak Pride. I have also run fundraisers for our local animal shelters. I also teach self defense classes to Transgender folks who fear for their safety daily.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
As a bisexual sex worker, I am a part of the marginalized communities being affected. I will work towards equal rights for women, minorities, and queer humans within our community.
District 4 – Kimberly Gold
Kimberly Gold is a dynamic leader with 20 years of experience in nonprofits, social services, and business development. She’s a fierce advocate for military families and marginalized communities—including BIPOC, LGBTQIA2+, religious minorities, and people with disabilities—working to create real, lasting change.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
In my role as the Colorado Springs Black Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, I launched the 2024 inaugural Women’s Entrepreneurship Program, which graduated 25 women, equipping them with business skills and local resources. A major challenge was securing funding, but through strategic partnerships, we made it happen. By leveraging local and out-of-city organizations and supporters, we provided training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, ensuring these women had the tools to succeed as they moved forward with their businesses, which in turn added diversity, value, and economic growth to the community.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
Despite federal cuts, local organizations that I have partnered with and/or served on boards with, like El Pomar’s Elevating Leadership Development; The Independence Center; Inside Out Youth Services; identity-based chambers; and more continue supporting DEI efforts.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
Accessibility to leadership is key. Too often, we expect constituents to come to leaders instead of leaders meeting them where they are. I will stay engaged with strong Southeast voices like Solid Rock CDC, RISE Southeast, CONO, and Thrive. To expand outreach, I secured the Southeast Strong domain and social media handles, creating direct communication channels across generations of leaders and constituents. Additionally, I plan to launch a podcast to share Southeast residents’ stories, amplify their concerns, and ensure their voices shape city decisions. Our community’s stories deserve to be told—by us, for us.
District 4 – Sherrea Elliot-Sterling
Candidate did not reply prior to press deadline.
District 4 – Chauncy Johnson
I’m 25 yrs old. I was raised in Colorado Springs, CO, all my life. I Collaborated with local organizations on Statewide Proposition FF in 2022 here in El Paso County, CO. Our efforts helped us secure free meals for all students, regardless of their economic status. We won here in El Paso by 2%, which in turn helped the statewide measure pass by 5%+. Helped spearhead a coalition to vote No on 2A, a ballot measure brought by the mayor and city of Colorado Springs. Together Chauncy & Stop Cop City org began to build a coalition of groups and concerned citizens to build a campaign. We had 25,000 dollars raised against us. We won 52.2% to 47.8%, while we made the community aware. This was a community effort! Worked as a Legislative Intern 2 times for the Chair of the Judiciary Committee at the state level. Worked as a legislative aide for State Rep. Marc Snyder (D) HD-18 for 1 yr +.
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
A specific instance I can point at where I worked to address the need of the martialized is after the death of a good friend shot by the CSPD. Some the challenges were lack of trust in the community, lack of citizen knowledge about the event, and anger as a community. We overcame this by hosting a weeklong protest where we brought acknowledgment to this incident in our community and other in city. As well time working for legislators to help change the laws, as to educate other on their rights with law enforcement.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
I would prioritize these changes by working with state officials within the cities home rule authority to seek state funding that can be used here at the local level, also speaking with that authority there is opportunity to use this to codify regulations to make fuds for our most vulnerable. Like looking at making a city take for our most wealthy citizens and corps to fund a housing assistant program or other things. I also think there is reason to look at what legal challenges are available, as I this federal admin is cause irreparable harm to our citizens.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. ow do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
Some practices I would implement to hold myself accountable to constituents would be to use the off weeks that we don’t meet as a council, instead meet with constituents by hosting learning sessions about what is going on in council regarding our neighborhood. In order to make feedback meaningful use a sort of anonymous suggestion box on things I can do better on my website and in council chambers.
District 5 – Nancy Henjum
I am running for re-election to Council. I moved to Colorado Springs 35 years ago and have lived in the same house since 1991. It was a homecoming for me. My dad, Joe Henjum – an Air Force pilot who taught at the Academy when I was a kid – retired in Colorado Springs, where his legacy of community service inspires me every day. I’ve been a social worker and the COO for a partnership managing Medicaid behavioral health for most of Colorado’s counties. After that I ran my own business as an executive leadership coach and organizational consultant serving diverse industries.
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Voters need to know 1) how campaigns are funded – I have made that information available on my website 2) who their elected officials are – I have answered numerous questionnaires and made information available on my website 3) clear and consistent communication – I share the rationale for my votes for the record, I read and return virtually all emails, voicemails and texts and value all input from constituents. I will meet and talk with virtually anyone who asks. I have also been sending a monthly newsletter since elected to keep constituents apprised of my thinking and seeking input.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
Concrete Couch reached out to me when they learned that a transmission line was planned to be pIaced directly through Concrete Coyote, their property that works with underserved populations. I arranged and facilitated a meeting with the CSU leadership that ultimately resulted not only in a solution that works for everyone but also educated a new group of leaders about the great work they do. I have also worked closely with OneBody ENT to advance the incredible work they do, whether in violence interruption or building community. There is no challenge when you build trust and relationship.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
The practice of transparency as outlined in a different question makes accountability possible. I have a record I’m very proud to run on. I am a listener and a question-asker. I invite feedback and engagement. I hold town halls, go to neighborhood meetings and invite people to City Hall. I meet with both individuals and neighborhood groups to understand concerns and connect people with City resources. My constituents also know why I vote the way that I do. During Council meetings I not only ask questions, I take the time to explain my decisions. I also publish a monthly newsletter.
District 5 – Cass R. Melin
I have a background in Federal Contract Law, plumbing, college student, board member of The Ridge at Sand Creek, husband, father, and long time resident of Colorado Springs.
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Transparency in government to me means, communicating with the people of my district about what is going on, what decisions are being made or coming up. It means being in regular contact with the press to issue press releases, news letters and townhalls regularly. As a City Council member you are the channel for the voice of the people.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
I would prioritize listening to concerns and reviewing data driven suggestions in order to improve the community in the best way possible for the most people possible.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
I would implement regular news letters, press releases, polls on my website and townhalls about any decisions affecting the community.
District 5 – Christopher Burns
Retired City Police Officer, retired Army National Guard Officer, 4 year degree in Business, Masters Degree (MBA), volunteer with multiple non-profit organizations, raised a family in Colorado Springs.
of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
As a police officer, I frequently had to address crime issues to underserved members of our community. In one instance, an apartment community was experiencing a large increase in multiple crimes (burglaries, auto thefts, assaults). I was able to use legal investigations to address the crime. Then also worked with City Codes to improve the building environment, multiple assistance services to help some residents who’s housing was unstable due to finances, and faith-based organizations to provide further assistance. By understanding and using these resources, I was able to greatly improve the quality of life for these residents.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
I believe in treating all individuals with fairness, respect, and equal opportunity. My priority is to support policies that uplift our entire community based on merit, hard work and need. If a group is identified as not having this opportunity, I will work to correct this. I will focus on expanding access to quality education (including school choice), skilled training, affordable higher education and job opportunities for everyone. By fostering a culture of accountability and personal responsibility, we can create a thriving community where everyone has the resources to succeed.
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities are often neglected in considerations for city development. How do you plan to ensure these communities are included when managing city growth?
I believe every community deserves a voice in city development. I will prioritize community needs based on merit and impact, not identity. If an identified group has been neglected, I will seek redress. I will engage with groups through public forums and citizen input to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. By focusing on improving public safety, infrastructure, and economic opportunities for all residents, we can create growth that benefits the entire city with fairness. Every decision should be guided by what best serves the whole community.
District 5 – Jim Miller 
Jim Miller is a Marine Corp Veteran, loving father, radio personality, small business owner and community leader. During the 2023 Mayoral Race, wanting nothing to do with politicians, Jim became known as the representative of the hard working class.
Sick of the same old politicians masquerading as fighters, he began his campaign fighting for regular people tired of the same old nonsense.
Jim was tired of being brushed off by politicians getting nothing more than I’ll look into it with no further response. It became evident to Jim, that those presently serving did not care about the freedoms, rights, and safety of those they served, limiting the ability for everyday citizens to present their concerns.
When 4 convicted pedophiles moved next door to his house, adjacent to a church, the city ignored the issue. Wanting to protect his daughter, who is a survivor, and others from the threat, Jim embarked on a mission to ensure that pedophiles cannot live near churches, parks, daycares, schools or anywhere children congregate.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
I work with the underserved community daily, serving in the unofficial role of being a good neighbor. I will never pass by a stranger on the street who needs help. We shouldn’t be looking to the government to solve our problems, the government should be empowering the people to be neighborly toward one another. Instead we have created a system, where if you help someone you can be held liable or in some cases harassed by authority.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion programs are being defunded at the federal level. How do you plan to prioritize communities affected by these changes?
The law is clear do not discriminate, yet many of these programs did discriminate. If we want to provide equality for all, we must treat everyone the same.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
My door will always be open, I want to hear from my constituents and I will fight to ensure every voice is heard.
District 6 – Aaron D. Schick
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
By not taking any money from special interest groups like my opponents, I commit to working 100% for the people and by the people. I am the only candidate dedicated to remaining free from lobbyists or corrupt influences that have plagued our political system for too long. My campaign finance is transparent. It’s time we take back our democracy and prioritize the voices of our communities over the interests of a few. I urge you to examine each candidate’s financial backing closely.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
I am embarking on a bold social experiment: refusing all donations and fully dedicating myself to serving the people. By relinquishing financial contributions, I can ensure my conscience remains clear and my actions are untainted by outside influence. This approach grants me total free agency to advocate for my constituents and truly implement their will. Campaign finance laws, riddled with loopholes, serve only to obscure the rampant corruption that undermines our democracy. It is time to strip away the barriers that compromise our political integrity and restore trust in our governance by prioritizing the needs of the people above all
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities are often neglected in considerations for city development. How do you plan to ensure these communities are included when managing city growth?
This question is flawed; all men and women are created equal. To suggest that one individual is lesser than another and deserving of neglect only fuels future problems. We must advocate for systems that ensure every person is treated equally, as this is the only path to stem the tide of racism that costs us dearly as a society. Equal representation must be a priority in our policies, as all taxpayers contribute equally to our nation’s prosperity. It is imperative that we stand together to ensure fairness and justice for everyone, regardless of their background.
District 6 – Dr. Parth Melpakam
I am a husband, father, long-time Colorado Springs resident, community leader, an engineer with a Doctorate in Chemical & Petroleum Engineering and over 25 years of experience working in the oil and gas industry. The worrisome state of public education led me to run for the District 11 Board of Education in 2019, and for re-election in 2023. I’ve served as the Board President for the past three years, focused on improving student outcomes and overall district performance. I am approaching City Council with a simple goal: Colorado Springs First. As your representative, my decisions will be guided by the best interest of our families and the economic vitality of our city. I will bring proven leadership skills with a commitment to common-sense solutions to the challenges facing our city.
What does transparency in governance mean to you and how will you ensure your constituents will be a part of your policy-making process?
Transparent communications and robust community conversations are foundational components of public governance. A transparent government facilitates people to participate in the democratic process so they can keep informed of budgets, spending, and projects. Additionally, transparency promotes accountability. It helps alleviate community concerns, builds trust, and generates reasonable solutions to controversial projects.
Can you share a specific instance where you worked to address the needs of a marginalized or underserved community? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
I’ve served as the D11 Board President for the past three years, focused on improving student outcomes and overall district performance. During that time, schools with significant needs based on academic performance, socioeconomic conditions, and underserved student populations were provided with supplementary support and resources. Specifically, for the current school year, the board approved additional support to teachers at Adams Elementary, Galileo Middle School, and Mitchell High School to help close academic gaps. I also supported the life-changing D11 Promise Scholarship program which provides free postsecondary education to students who may otherwise not be able to afford it.
What practices will you implement to hold yourself accountable to constituents and to allow for meaningful feedback?
As an elected public official, I take with utmost seriousness my obligation to represent the best interests of all my constituents and the laws that I am sworn to protect. It requires engaging in civil discourse with diverse voices, respecting the views of all while avoiding personal attacks. Serving on the D11 School Board, I have a proven track record of listening respectfully, collaborating thoughtfully, and weighing all perspectives objectively while making informed, balanced decisions. I will bring the same professional work ethic as a councilmember, be readily accessible and actively engaged in responding to the needs of all residents.
District 6 – Roland Rainey, Jr.
Candidate did not reply prior to press deadline.
