Ken Casey appointed to Colorado Springs City Council District 2 after 5–3 vote amid dispute over questioning rules

Colorado Springs City Council appointed Ken Casey to represent District 2 on April 6, filling a vacancy created earlier this year. The council voted 5–3 after nominations and a roll-call election; members previously debated and approved a rule restricting each council member to one, identical question per candidate during the interview process.

The meeting began with the council president explaining an altered interview order and timing: each candidate would have five minutes to speak and members would each be allowed one question, with three minutes for a candidate’s answer.

Casey, who serves as chair of the Colorado Springs Planning Commission, told the council he would seek reelection in April 2027 and described experience he said prepares him to “hit the ground running,” including planning-commission work, military service and public-sector management. After nominations, the council held a role-call election for the four nominated candidates; Casey secured the required majority and the council voted to appoint him.

The appointment followed earlier controversy at the dais about whether council members should be allowed follow-up questions. Councilman Williams moved to limit each member to a single, identical question for every candidate; Councilman Risley seconded. Supporters said the rule ensured fairness and consistency across interviews; opponents argued follow-ups are important to probe candidates’ qualifications. City Attorney Sarah Bruin advised the body that council rules and the city charter govern procedure and that discussion should precede any vote on process changes. The council approved the motion 5–3.

Several council members who opposed Casey’s appointment said they were concerned about his ability to devote time to the council because he currently holds a full-time position, while supporters pointed to his preparation and planning experience. Council discussion noted a reported city budget shortfall and the workload of councilors, with one member saying, “we need someone who has full time to devote to the position.” Another council member said Casey had “done his homework” and demonstrated the level of knowledge needed for the seat.

Public comment included more than a dozen speakers. MJ Beninati, appearing for the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC, urged an appointee with private-sector experience to help grow the tax base. Several residents voiced support for Anita Miller and for Casey, citing trust, local service and planning experience.

Following the roll-call vote, the president announced Casey received five votes and the council moved and seconded to appoint him. The meeting concluded with the motion to appoint passing 5–3 and the council adjourning.

What happens next: Casey will serve as the District 2 council member and, per comments on the dais, indicated he plans to run in the April 2027 election. Council members who raised concerns about availability said they will monitor attendance and engagement as he assumes the role.