Katy Frisch announces run for Aspen mayor

Katy Frisch, a former longtime Aspen School District Board of Education president and member, announced Monday she is running for Aspen mayor.

Frisch said her campaign platform will focus on fresh ideas, community-centered solutions, and a commitment to continuing her proven leadership, according to a news release.

“After much reflection, I am excited to announce my campaign for the Mayor of Aspen,” Frisch said in a prepared statement. “Over the past few weeks, I have had many encouraging conversations about the future of our community, and I strongly believe that our best days are ahead of us. I’m looking forward to expanding my policy platform as I continue to engage with and learn from various perspectives.”

Monday’s announcement comes after Rachel Richards, a former longtime Aspen City Council member and one-term mayor, submitted her mayoral bid last week to replace Mayor Torre, who will be termed out but plans to run for a council seat in the March 2025 municipal election. Current City Council members Sam Rose and John Doyle have also collected mayoral petitions.

Doyle, however, who also looks to retain a council seat in spring, confirmed Monday he is still undecided on an official mayoral bid.

“I heard that Katy Frisch picked up a petition, and that does throw a new wrinkle into things,” Doyle said Monday of whether he still intends to run. He expects to make a decision by Monday, Dec. 23, the petition deadline. “I still intend to talk to as many longtime locals to get their view.”

Rose, who’s current seat is not up for election in March, confirmed Monday he will not be running for mayor.

“Katy is incredibly qualified and would make a tremendous mayor,” he told The Aspen Times. “So, I am truly happy to support her candidacy.”

Frisch’s campaign priorities include critical infrastructure and land-use issues, such as fixing Castle Creek Bridge and opposing the transfer of control of the Marolt Open Space to state agencies. 

She plans to develop the historic Armory Building into a community-centered gathering space and advocate for policies that ensure sustainable, community-appropriate growth aligned with the Aspen Area Community Plan, according to the release. Additionally, Frisch emphasized her commitment to maintaining Aspen’s leadership in environmental stewardship.

In addition to the Aspen School Board, Frisch’s leadership experience extends to roles with the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club, Aspen Public Radio, the Aspen School District Financial Advisory Board, and the Roaring Fork Youth Orchestra. She also volunteers at Aspen Thrift Store on Tuesday nights.

Frisch and her husband, Adam, are proud parents of Felix, Quintessa, and their dog, Padmé.