UPDATE: Alex Kalkhofer has emerged as the sole candidate for Longmont’s Ward 3 special election, confirmed just before the 5 p.m. deadline on Monday, according to the City Clerk’s office. This development comes as the city prepares to decide if the election will proceed or be canceled, a decision expected on December 30, 2023.
Officials report that Kalkhofer submitted a verified total of 30 signatures from qualified electors, surpassing the minimum requirement of 25 signatures needed for nomination. While an additional petition was submitted, it was not verified because Kalkhofer had already met the necessary criteria. The City Clerk’s office is currently deliberating whether to hold the election with only one candidate or cancel it entirely.
Longmont Communications Director Lindsay Diamond emphasized that the topic is under legal review, stating, “We won’t have the official answer until then.” According to state law, a nonpartisan election can be canceled if there are not more candidates than the offices available, potentially resulting in Kalkhofer being declared elected by default.
Kalkhofer, who previously ran for Longmont’s at-large City Council position, finished with 14.6% of the vote and is well-known in the community, having lived in Ward 3 since 2008. He currently chairs the city’s Transportation Advisory Board and is eager to continue his service to the community. “I’m honored by the support I’ve received and ready to roll up my sleeves,” he stated in a phone call.
If the election proceeds, it is scheduled for March 3, 2026. However, if canceled, Kalkhofer will be appointed to complete the term of former Councilmember Susie Hidalgo-Fahring, who was elected mayor in November and left the Ward 3 seat vacant.
The community is eagerly awaiting the city’s decision, as the outcome will shape the leadership in Ward 3 for the coming years. Residents have shown strong support for Kalkhofer, with many encouraging his candidacy following his earlier election run.
This situation highlights the critical intersection of local governance and citizen engagement, as the community’s voice could be consolidated under a single candidate. Stay tuned for further updates as the city confirms its next steps on December 30.
