Thornton City Council debates term limits and special election costs for mayor vacancies

The Thornton City Council is gearing up for significant changes regarding term limits and special elections, following a heated discussion during their planning session on June 17, 2025. The council is considering a proposal to clarify how partial terms are counted, with a strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity of term limits.

Council members expressed concerns that allowing lengthy partial terms could undermine the intent of term limits established by Colorado's constitution. Roberta, a council member, highlighted the potential for individuals to serve extended periods in power, suggesting that if someone serves more than a year in a partial term, it should count as a full term. “We need to put some limits on it,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the will of the people of Thornton.

The discussion also touched on the implications of special elections. If a mayoral vacancy occurs and the remaining term is over a year, a special election would be held, which could be costly for the city. Council members debated whether the community would support the financial burden of such elections, recalling that previous voter turnout favored the option despite costs. “Let’s just put it on the ballot and see where that goes,” suggested David, indicating a willingness to let voters decide.

In addition to term limits, the council is also reviewing the requirements for initiating a referendum or initiative. Currently, 10% of registered voters must sign a petition, which translates to approximately 8,800 signatures based on the latest figures. This requirement aligns with statewide standards, ensuring that local governance remains accessible to the electorate.

As the council moves forward, the decisions made in these discussions will shape the future of governance in Thornton, reflecting the community's values and priorities. The next steps will involve drafting proposals for the ballot, allowing residents to weigh in on these critical issues.