Posted Nov. 9, 2026

With the 2026 state and federal elections behind us, it's time to turn our attention closer to home. Local elections may not generate the same headlines as national races, but the decisions made by locally elected leaders have a direct impact on our everyday lives.

On May 4, 2027, Highlands Ranch Water customers will have an opportunity to elect three members to the district's five-member board of directors. The board is responsible for making decisions that help ensure safe, reliable water and wastewater service for the community, today and for generations to come.

At its Oct. 26 meeting, the Highlands Ranch Water board of directors adopted Resolution 26-142, formally calling for the May 4, 2027 special district election and appointing General Manager Sam Calkins as the district's designated election official. The resolution also established the Highlands Ranch Senior Center, 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway, as the district's polling location.

While national elections often dominate the conversation, local elections offer residents an opportunity to influence decisions made right in their own community.

Highlands Ranch Water is a special district, a form of local government established to provide specific services to the community. Its five-member, resident-elected board of directors sets policies, approves budgets and rates, and makes long-term decisions about water supply, infrastructure investments and the delivery of essential services. All authority for governing the district lies in the board of directors.

"Local elections are an opportunity for customers to have a direct voice in the decisions that shape their community," said Sam Calkins. "Our board members are your neighbors. They live in the community, receive the same water services and share an interest in ensuring we have a safe, reliable water supply for years to come. We encourage customers to learn about the candidates, ask questions and participate in the election."

Three board seats will be up for election in May 2027, each serving a four-year term.

Residents interested in serving on the board can submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form beginning Jan. 1, 2027. The deadline to submit the form is 5 p.m. on Feb. 26, 2027. The form will be available on the district’s website, highlandsranchwater.org/vote, in December.

Even if serving on the board isn't for you, there are many ways to get involved. Learn about the role of the board, attend a public meeting, get to know the candidates and, most importantly, make your voice heard by voting.

The Highlands Ranch Water election will take place Tuesday, May 4, 2027, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voting will take place at the Highlands Ranch Senior Center, 200 E. Highlands Ranch Parkway. If you prefer to vote by mail, registered voters who live in or own property in Highlands Ranch or Solstice can request an absentee ballot. The Application for Absentee Ballot form is available now on the district’s website or can be picked up at their office at 62 Plaza Drive, Highlands Ranch during normal business hours.

Visit the district’s website, highlandsranchwater.org/vote, for information about the upcoming election, candidate requirements, important dates and voting procedures.