Help shape the city and its policies by running for City Council in the 2023 municipal election. The city’s nine council members create the vision for Commerce City, pass laws, and review and approve the annual budget. Six seats are up for election this year, with all incumbents eligible for re-election. Voters will elect a mayor, council members for Ward II, Ward III, and Ward IV, as well as two individuals to represent the city At Large.

Councilors are elected to serve four-year terms (this year the Ward III seat will be elected to a special two-year term due to the resignation of the councilor elected in 2021). Regular City Council meetings take place on the first three Mondays of each month, while the fourth Monday consist of a study session allowing for more in-depth discussion of topics. Meetings typically start at 6 p.m. Council members also regularly participate in city events and serve on boards and commissions.

Residents interested in elected office must meet the following requirements:

• Citizen of the United States.
• 18 years of age or older.
• City resident for at least 12 months preceding appointment.
• Resident of ward for 25 days immediately preceding appointment (not applicable for at-large seats).
• Cannot be serving a felony conviction, including probation or parole.

To become a candidate, residents must file a notarized candidate affidavit with the city clerk within 10 days of publicly announcing their intent and either accepting a donation or expending funds in support of their candidacy. To be placed on the ballot, candidates must submit a completed nomination petition, signed by at least 25 registered electors within the ward or city, by 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 28.  Nomination petitions are available starting Tuesday, Aug. 8 at 8 a.m. in the City Clerk’s Office at the Civic Center, 7887 E. 60th Ave.

Dates to note for prospective candidates interested in running for city council in the 2023 municipal election:

Aug. 8: Nomination petitions available at 8 a.m. in the City Clerk’s Office
Aug. 8: Informational meeting for potential candidates, 6 p.m. at the Civic Center, 7887 E. 60th Ave.
Aug. 28: Nomination petitions due to the City Clerk’s Office by 5 p.m.
Sept. 6: Lot draw to determine candidate positions on the 2023 ballot
Nov. 7: Election Day

Commerce City will host an information session for potential candidates on Tuesday, Aug. 8 at 6 p.m. at the Civic Center. While not mandatory, the meeting provides all candidates with details on campaign rules and regulations. Information about the city’s structure, budget, and current activities also will be provided so candidates have information on current city operations and projects.

A ballot draw will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. at the Civic Center to set the order of candidate names on the ballot. The ballot draw will be broadcast live at c3gov.com/Video and on CCTV Channel 8 (HD 881) for Xfinity customers.

Learn more at c3gov.com/Elections. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7