A Ward 3 Campaign Update
Hey friends and neighbors! Months ago, when I was first grappling with the decision to run for Manitou Springs city council in Ward 3, I promised myself that I would only run if I thought that was good for the residents who I would represent.
In the last few days with the field of Ward 3 candidates growing, I’ve considered what it could mean to split the vote three (or more?) ways.
After learning more about Gloria Latimer, and spending a couple hours talking with her about her background, her views on the challenges facing Manitou, and about the importance of community engagement in how we face those challenges together, I have come to see how aligned we are on our values and intentions.
I do not want to run against anyone who I would happily vote for to represent me on council, if I wasn't running myself. She is a serious and committed candidate who will make the time needed to be present and do a good job on behalf of residents.
With so much gratitude for the family and friends who have advised me, and for all the wonderful Manitoids who have taken the time to talk with me, and share your concerns and hopes for our community, I am withdrawing my candidacy for Ward 3 city council. I believe that Gloria would be a great councilperson, and I will be happy to vote for her in November.
Learn more about Gloria at gloriaformanitou.com.
Thank you, Ward 3
I have withdrawn my candidacy for Ward 3 to keep residents’ interests first and avoid splitting the vote as the field grows. I’m supporting Gloria Latimer for City Council.
I remain deeply committed to our community and will stay engaged as a neighbor. Please reach out any time with your ideas or questions.
Top Priorities
Improve Parking & Calm the Streets
Resident-friendly permits, with clear rules and simple processes; targeted traffic-calming where people live.
Safe, Livable Neighborhoods
Enforce the rules to protect residential character; support community-oriented policing and fire mitigation.
Environment, Water, and Wildfire Resilience
Conservation programs, expanded chipping and more support for fire mitigation. Finish implementing Resolution 1919 for the environment.
Budget in the Open
Protect essentials (police, fire/EMS, streets, water); optimize visitor-based revenue sources first; budgetary oversight and transparency. Residents should be able to answer "Where does the money go?"
Leverage Community Expertise
Do a better job of tapping and honoring resident expertise, volunteers, and boards; strengthen City Hall's policy analysis capacity to turn good ideas into actionable, funded plans.
Support Arts & the Local Economy
Keep Manitou's creative economy strong because it's central to our quality of life. Visitors are welcome here, but residents come first.
About Mark
Professional Experience
Director of Web & Digital Experience at Colorado College - nearly two decades of experience improving complex systems for real people.
Board Service
Manitou Art Center (2016–23, incl. Treasurer & President); Citizens Project (2008–12); currently Manitou Arts, Culture, and Heritage (MACH) Board.
Community Leadership
Leadership Pikes Peak graduate (year-long civic leadership program); Manitou Springs Citizens Academy graduate.
Community Builder
Photographer, Pikes Peak Bulletin contributor, involved in countless community events; member of Manitou Springs Climate Action Working Group (CAWG).
Local Family Roots
My wife Kristin was born and raised in the Pikes Peak region; she is also very community-involved (Manitou Springs Women's Club and MAC boards).
Manitou Resident & Parent
10 years in Ward 3; our kid attended MSSD14 from kindergarten through high school graduation.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology; Master of Education in Instructional Technology.
Stay in Touch
I’d love to stay connected. Reach out with your questions or ideas for Manitou Springs.
