Fort Collins City Council discusses ranked choice voting and future ballot measures

During the Fort Collins City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, a significant focus was placed on the upcoming implementation of ranked choice voting, set to begin with the November elections. This new voting system allows residents to rank candidates in order of preference, enhancing voter choice and ensuring that elected officials have majority support.

City Clerk Dylan and Clerk Tina Harris presented the community report on ranked choice voting, explaining its mechanics and benefits. Under this system, voters can select their first, second, and third choices among candidates in races with three or more participants. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the votes in the initial count, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their supporters' votes are redistributed to their next choices. This process continues until a candidate achieves the majority.

The council emphasized that this change stems from a 2022 ballot measure approved by 58.15% of voters, reflecting the community's desire for a more representative electoral process. The city is actively educating residents about how to navigate the new voting format, including how to fill out their ballots correctly to ensure their votes count.

In addition to the ranked choice voting discussion, the council also proclaimed June 8, 2025, as Race Amity Day, highlighting the city's commitment to fostering inclusivity and community engagement. This proclamation will be celebrated at an event at the Fort Collins Senior Center.

The meeting also included a review of the agenda, which featured 19 items on the consent calendar and plans for a work session to discuss charter amendments and upcoming ballot measures. The council's commitment to transparency and community involvement was evident, as they encouraged public participation and respectful dialogue throughout the meeting.

As Fort Collins prepares for these changes, the city council's efforts aim to enhance civic engagement and ensure that every resident's voice is heard in the electoral process.