Dear Friends and Neighbors of Pitkin County,

After careful thought, and many conversations with longtime community members, I am announcing my intention to run for Pitkin County Commissioner in 2026.

I previously had the honor of serving as your County Commissioner, and that experience continues to shape how I view leadership, responsibility, and public service. During my time on the Board, we worked through complex land-use decisions, environmental protections, budget challenges, and the constant balance between preserving what makes Pitkin County special while ensuring it remains livable and functional for the people who call it home.

Pitkin County is at a crossroads once again.

We are facing real and growing challenges:

• Housing affordability and availability for working residents
• Protecting our public lands and water while managing growth responsibly
• Infrastructure and transportation pressures
• The long-term sustainability of our local economy
• Ensuring government remains transparent, fiscally responsible, and responsive

These are not abstract issues to me. I have lived here for decades, built businesses here, and worked alongside countless residents who keep this community running—teachers, service workers, small business owners, first responders, and nonprofit leaders. I understand both the opportunities and the tradeoffs that come with decision-making in a place as unique as Pitkin County.

My approach to leadership has always been practical, collaborative, and grounded in facts—not ideology. As Commissioner, I believed then—and believe now—that the best outcomes come from listening first, respecting differing viewpoints, and making thoughtful, well-informed decisions that serve the long-term interests of the entire community.

I am running because I care deeply about the future of Pitkin County. I want to help ensure that it remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive, while protecting the natural environment we are privileged to steward. I bring experience, institutional knowledge, and a steady hand—along with renewed energy to meet today’s challenges with clear eyes and common sense.

Over the coming months, I look forward to listening, learning, and engaging with residents across the county. Your voices, ideas, and concerns will shape this campaign and the work ahead.

You can follow and engage with the campaign at VoteRobIttner.com.

Thank you for the trust you placed in me in the past and for the conversations to come.

With appreciation and commitment,

Rob Ittner