About Chris Burns
I'm retired Colorado Springs Police Officer, and retired Colorado Army National Guard Army Officer, Christopher Burns, and I am running to represent Colorado Springs City Council's 5th district.
When I came to Colorado Springs in 1987 to train at the Olympic Training center for Judo and wrestling, I fell in love with our city! I am running because I have led a life of service both in the jobs I have had, and the volunteer programs I have participated in, and have devoted myself to causes I believe in.
In 1998, I became a Police Officer with the Colorado Springs Police Department. I spent the next 24 years as a police officer working in all areas of our city and in many of our high schools as a School Resource Officer.
My #1 priority will be Public Safety – I will champion proper staffing, training, and retention of police officers to help make Colorado Springs safe.
My police career has given me an insight into public safety and emergency management that is crucial as our community grows and faces new challenges. Toward the end of my police career, I saw many things regarding public safety that troubled me with CSPD, such as, officer retention, supervisor training, and insufficient use of force training.
I first became involved with Colorado Springs City Council two years ago when I decided to volunteer for the City Council Sub-committee, Law Enforcement Transparency and Advisory Council (LETAC), as my way to improve the department I retired from.
I find myself in a stage of life where I have the time and resources to devote to a full-time endeavor like the Colorado Springs City Council. Colorado Springs is a great city, but it is facing a host of challenges, including declines in public safety, growing housing costs, and growing pains.
My next priority will be Infrastructure – I will work on smart growth initiatives that sets forth a responsible growth plan that includes a water and public service plans. I will support plans that provide additional revenues, more housing units, and provide affordable municipal energy for our citizens.
We need practical and pragmatic solutions that work for our growing community. The guiding questions should be; What is best for the people of this city? And what will work within the budgets we have?
I have the time and energy to research city issues and policies. I will seek to make the best decisions for the citizens of Colorado Springs based on researched data.
I raised three children here in Colorado Springs so I am very familiar with the dynamics of family life including schools and the challenges facing parents. I have two daughters in college and know how important it is for them to be able to afford to live in this great city!
Lastly, I will Reduce Housing Burdens – I will support having adequate housing stock for all incomes focused on continuing to make Colorado Springs a great place to live and raise families. I will support visions of the future that are adequately planned and developed to enhance the strengths of our communities.
I'm Chris Burns and I am asking for your support and vote. I believe Colorado Springs needs my experience to achieve future success and only with your help can we make this happen together!
Public Safety
Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community, and I am committed to making Colorado Springs safer for all residents. With 24 years in law enforcement and a military background in emergency management, I understand the challenges we face—officer retention, training, rising crime, school safety, increased traffic and homelessness. As a former police officer and military leader, I will advocate for better resources, training, and retention strategies to strengthen our police force. I will work to improve emergency preparedness, address homelessness, and support responsible growth that ensures safe neighborhoods. We need practical, informed leadership to make real improvements in public safety.
Infrastructure
A strong infrastructure is the backbone of a thriving city. As Colorado Springs continues to grow, we must invest in roads, public services, and utilities to support residents and businesses. My experience in law enforcement and emergency management has shown me the importance of well-maintained infrastructure for public safety and economic stability. I will advocate for efficient maintenance of roads and adoption of technologies which improve traffic flow. I also will advocate for responsible growth that includes sustainable water management, affordable energy, and efficient transportation. We need practical, long-term solutions that enhance our quality of life without excessively burdening taxpayers.
Reducing Housing Burdens
Housing affordability is a growing challenge in Colorado Springs, and we must take action to reduce the burden on families. This is especially true for our young people who are making their first move from home into independence. As a longtime resident, I understand the impact of rising housing costs firsthand. I will advocate for responsible infrastructure development, to include low-income housing, that ensures sustainable growth while maintaining the quality of life that makes our city great. We must expand housing opportunities, improve public services, and support residents and businesses. Smart, data-driven policies will help balance growth and affordability, ensuring Colorado Springs remains a vibrant place to live.
