In Aurora, Colorado, voters are gearing up for one of the toughest elections in recent memory. On November 7th, residents across Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties will cast their ballots to determine the direction of the city's government for the next four years.

This election carries significant weight, as the winners will be tasked with tackling crucial issues such as homelessness and public safety, which are currently among the most pressing concerns for Aurora. Additionally, the outcome will determine the political leanings of the city council, which currently holds a conservative majority.

Aurora operates under a council-manager government, where the city manager oversees day-to-day operations instead of “a strong mayor.” The 11-member council consists of the mayor and 10 council members, making it a central battleground for political power.

Seeking re-election is Republican Mayor Mike Coffman, who narrowly won the seat in 2019. Coffman's approach to curbing homelessness has included enacting an urban camping ban and supporting a move to adopt a strong-mayor system like Denver's. However, he faces tough competition from two Democratic challengers.

One of his opponents is Aurora council member Juan Marcano, a progressive on the council who has been critical of Coffman's policies. Marcano has emphasized a housing-first approach to homelessness and advocates for the revival of a citizen group to make recommendations to local police.

While changing Aurora from a city manager-controlled government to a “strong mayor” has been controversial for some, for others, they believe a strong elected mayor will be much more accountable to Aurora’s voters.

The other challenger is Jeff Sanford, a political newcomer and U.S. Air Force veteran with no prior political experience. Sanford aims to develop a comprehensive master plan to improve the city's infrastructure and promote environmental sustainability.

In addition to the mayoral race, there are ten candidates vying for five city council seats, including two at-large positions. The candidates for the at-large positions are Alison Coombs (D), Curtis Gardner (R), Thomas Mayes (D), and Jono Scott (R). In Ward IV, Jon Gray (D) and Stephanie Hancock (R) are competing. Ward V sees Angela Lawson (U) and Chris Rhodes (D) as the candidates, while Ward VI has Francoise Bergan (R) and Brian Matise (D) in the running.

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These council races are crucial, as they will determine the balance of power within the city council and shape the policies and decisions that impact Aurora's residents.

As the election draws near, candidates are actively campaigning, working to win over voters and secure their support. The outcome of this high-stakes election will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the future of Aurora and its residents.