UPDATE: Alex Kalkhofer has officially emerged as the sole candidate for Longmont’s Ward 3 special election, with the nomination deadline closing at 5 p.m. on December 25, 2023. This surprising development leaves Longmont with a pivotal decision on whether to proceed with the election or cancel it altogether.
The Longmont City Clerk’s office confirmed that Kalkhofer submitted 30 verified signatures from qualified electors, exceeding the minimum requirement of 25 signatures. In a statement forwarded by Longmont Communications Director Lindsay Diamond, officials noted that an additional petition was received but not verified since the threshold was already met.
As the city grapples with the implications of having only one candidate, officials are currently reviewing whether the special election, scheduled for March 3, 2026, will take place or be canceled. According to state statute, nonpartisan elections can be called off if there are not more candidates than offices to fill by the close of business on the 63rd day before the election. The city plans to announce its decision on this matter by December 30, 2023.
Kalkhofer, who has lived in Ward 3 since 2008 and currently chairs the city’s Transportation Advisory Board, previously ran in Longmont’s at-large City Council race, finishing with 14.6% of the vote. He expressed gratitude for the community support he has received since declaring his candidacy for the open seat, which became available after former Councilmember Susie Hidalgo-Fahring was elected mayor in November.
In a recent phone call, Kalkhofer stated, “I’m honored by the support I have received and am eager to continue serving the community. If all goes well, I’m excited and ready to roll up my sleeves.”
If the election is canceled, Kalkhofer would automatically be appointed to fill the remainder of Hidalgo-Fahring’s term, which extends through November 2027. The urgency surrounding this decision makes it crucial for residents and stakeholders to stay informed as the situation develops.
Residents and interested parties are advised to monitor updates closely, as the city prepares to clarify its position on the election and the future of Ward 3 representation. The implications of this election extend beyond a single candidate; they reflect the community’s engagement and the ongoing need for effective local governance.
