Aspen City Council candidate to remain on ballot despite announcing withdrawal from race

Maryann Pitt announced her withdrawal from the March 4 Aspen City Council race on Jan. 17. However, her name will still appear on the ballot, according to Aspen City Clerk Nicole Henning.

“According to Colorado law, section 31-10-303 of the Colo. Rev. Stat., a candidate who has been nominated and accepted the nomination may cause their name to be withdrawn at any time prior to 63 days before the election,” Henning explained. “Ms. Pitt filed her affidavit accepting her nomination and did not withdraw within the time allowed by statute.”

Henning confirmed that Pitt’s name was certified on the ballot with Dominion on Jan. 10. The withdrawal came later that same week.

“On Friday, Jan. 17, at 5:01 p.m., there was an email sent to me from Ms. Pitt stating that she is withdrawing from her candidacy,” Henning said.

In her email, Pitt wrote, “It is with careful consideration and appreciation to the Aspen community that I have decided to withdraw my city council candidacy. I look forward to serving our community in the future.” 

She explained her decision further to The Aspen Times, emphasizing her inability to dedicate the focus she felt the role required.

“I ran to best serve our community by providing diligence, care, and preservation of our landscape and history. Like all of us Aspenites, I care deeply for our community. A council member must provide the brightest, most innovative, efficient stewardship for our community today and for future generations to come,” Pitt stated. “At this time, I am unable to provide that laser point focus. I wish everyone on the trail my best.”

Henning and Aspen Assistant City Attorney Kate Johnson met with Pitt on Tuesday, Jan. 21 to inform her that her name would still appear on the ballot. Pitt was also reminded of her obligation to submit financial reports on Feb. 11, 21, and 28, despite the fact she is no longer running.

Pitt’s withdrawal follows that of Peter Fornell, who withdrew earlier and will not appear on the ballot due to the timing of his decision. 

This leaves six candidates vying for two city council seats: Mayor Torre, who is termed out of his mayoral position; incumbent John Doyle, running for re-election; and challengers Christine Benedetti, Scot Woolley, Emily Kolbe, and Tyler Wilkinson Ray.

Meanwhile, Rachel Richards and Katy Frisch are the only candidates who successfully submitted petitions to run for mayor.