GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. – The Grand Junction City Council has officially placed a new question on the upcoming municipal ballot, setting the stage for a decision that could change the way local elections are held. In a unanimous 7-0 vote on February 5, council members approved a measure asking voters whether city elections should shift from April to November.
What’s on the Ballot?
Mayor Abe Herman clarified the key issue at hand: Should Grand Junction align its municipal elections with the general elections in November? The proposed change aims to streamline the voting process and potentially save the city money by consolidating election administration with Mesa County.
If approved, the measure would also extend the terms of current city council members to match the new election cycle. This adjustment ensures that future elections follow a consistent timeline without disrupting governance.
The Pros and Cons
Shifting city elections to November could have significant financial and logistical benefits. According to Mayor Herman, “There’s huge cost savings when the county can run the elections.” Currently, municipal elections require independent administration, which can be costly for the city.
Another advantage is the potential for higher voter turnout. November elections historically draw more participation than local April elections, which often see lower engagement from residents.
However, there are concerns. One major issue is the risk of city-related matters being overshadowed by high-profile national and state races. “One of the big values of city elections and city council is we are non-partisan,” Herman explained. “There is concern that putting them in November could conflate them with partisan issues.”
How This Affects City Council Terms
If voters approve the change, current city council members would see their terms extended to align with the new November election schedule. This shift would prevent mid-year transitions and ensure continuity in governance without requiring additional special elections.
For Grand Junction voters, this decision isn’t just about when elections happen—it’s about shaping the future of local government participation and efficiency.
