The Arvada City Council voted to appoint Arvada Chamber of Commerce Chairman, Gerald `Jerry' Marks, to the District 1 seat, Jan. 10.
“I'm a tad overwhelmed,” Marks said after being appointed to council, “You never know until you're in something; I feel I'm up to the task and will give it my best.”
The candidate forum was held 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Jan. 10, in the Arvada City Council Chambers, 8101 Ralston Rd. The five chosen candidates, Rebecca Anderson, John Crouse, Kathleen Drulard, Jerry Marks, and Nancy Murray were asked to present an opening statement, and respond to a list of questions presented by Mayor Marc Williams.
“We do the people's business in this room,” said Mayor Marc Williams. “I take great pride in our ability to make decisions, but it comes down to how do we add a seventh person who will work well with the citizens, the city of Arvada, and the six of us?”
The forum asked candidates a variety of key questions to ensure the person chosen was familiar with the community and the key issues in Arvada. The questions were regarding their commitment, being a face for the city of Arvada, their experience and a variety of key city issues, such as the Gold Line, Olde Town revitalization, governance of the Arvada Center, and recreational and medical marijuana.
“We are making a decision for our community that is sound, and it may be liked or not liked, but we have to do what is best for the community and the constituents of this city,” Councilman-At-Large, Bob Fifer said.
Following the forum, the council reported their thoughts on the candidates, and then took a vote by ballot. After 4 rounds of voting, Jerry Marks gained the majority of the vote, and was appointed to council.
Marks was congratulated by his fellow candidates and the councils following the appointment.
Marks said he was looking forward to taking on the responsibilities of his new post, and learning more about his district.
As part of his plan to know District 1, Marks said he wishes to meet with each council member, the city manager, the city's department heads, and hear their perception of the district and where they believe his focus should be.
“I hope to have that done in the first 30-60 days,” Marks said. “Then, at the King Soopers at 80th Ave. and Wadsworth Blvd, I want to have an event with the community, to hear their concerns.”
He will be sworn in at the next City Council meeting, at 6 p.m., Jan. 13, in the Arvada City Council Chambers, 8101 Ralston Rd., prior to that evening's workshop.