UPDATE: In a surprising turn of events, Alex Kalkhofer has emerged as the only candidate to officially submit nomination petitions for Longmont’s Ward 3 special election before the 5 p.m. deadline on December 18, 2023. This confirmation comes from the City Clerk’s office, raising immediate questions about the future of the election.
The City Clerk verified that Kalkhofer submitted 30 valid signatures from qualified electors in Ward 3, surpassing the minimum requirement of 25 signatures. However, an additional petition with unverified signatures has also been filed but remains on record, as it is not necessary for nomination.
As the situation develops, Longmont’s Communications Director, Lindsay Diamond, stated that city officials are currently reviewing whether the special election will proceed with a single candidate or be canceled altogether. “This topic is currently under legal review, and we’ll have an update on the 30th,” Diamond said.
“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,” Kalkhofer expressed, highlighting his eagerness to serve the community.
Under state statute and Longmont’s Fair Campaign Practices Act, a nonpartisan election may be canceled if there are no more candidates than offices available by the close of business 63 days prior to the election. If the election is canceled, Kalkhofer would automatically be appointed to fulfill the remainder of the term of Susie Hidalgo-Fahring, who was recently elected mayor.
Kalkhofer, who previously finished as the runner-up in Longmont’s at-large City Council race this fall with 14.6% of the vote, has been a resident of Ward 3 since 2008 and currently chairs the city’s Transportation Advisory Board. He announced his candidacy for the special election scheduled for March 3, 2026, shortly after Hidalgo-Fahring’s departure.
Community response to Kalkhofer’s candidacy has been overwhelmingly positive, as he reports receiving numerous endorsements and encouragement from residents. His commitment to the community is evident, and he is ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
The city’s decision on whether to proceed with the election or appoint Kalkhofer is expected on December 30, 2023, making this an urgent and pivotal moment for Longmont residents.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds, and don’t miss the official announcement that could shape the future of Longmont’s leadership.
