By Robyn Carnes | Guest Commentary, Rocky Mountain Voice
Five candidates. Over 500 miles walked. One vision for Centennial.
That’s what this election is about: neighbors coming together, rolling up their sleeves, and doing the hard work to keep Centennial strong. We’ve walked the neighborhoods, knocked on doors, and met families across the city. And with every mile, our commitment has grown—not just to win an election, but to build a brighter future for the community we all love.
We are proud to stand together as a conservative team—Mayoral candidate Don Sheehan (donforcentennial.com), District 1’s incumbent Robyn Carnes (carnesforcentennial.com), District 2’s Carrie Penaloza (carrieforcentennial.com), District 3’s Patty McKernan (patty4centennial.com), and District 4’s Jeffrey Gilliam (jeffreyforcentennial.com).
United, we are “C5,” and together we bring a joyful spirit of service and determination to keep Centennial thriving.
Pictured from left: Dr. Jeffrey Gilliam, Patty McKernan, Don Sheehan, Carrie Penaloza and Robyn Carnes
Why Local Government Matters Most
Some may wonder why city elections matter so much. The truth is, City Council is the closest level of government to you. The decisions we make affect your roads, zoning, parks, safety, and the quality of everyday life. Unlike state or national offices, local leadership is where your voice has the most impact—and where elected officials can be the most responsive.
This November is a turning point. Out of nine Council seats, five are open, including the Mayor’s since Stephanie Piko is terming out. That means a clear majority of the Council will be chosen in this election, setting the direction for Centennial’s future.
Centennial: Colorado’s #1 City
It’s no accident that U.S. News & World Report recently named Centennial the #1 city to live in Colorado. We are a safe, family-oriented, innovative, and welcoming community. But success is not a finish line; it’s something we have to work to maintain every day. We want to build on that momentum, safeguard what makes Centennial special, and continue investing in the future that our residents deserve.
And speaking of the future, 2026 marks Centennial’s 25th Birthday. What better way to celebrate than by strengthening our city’s leadership team and ensuring our next quarter-century is as strong—or stronger—than our first?
Unity and Joy in Service
We’ve met thousands of residents by knocking on doors, hosting events, and walking neighborhoods. And here’s what we’ve found: Centennial is full of hardworking people who care deeply about their city. The joy of campaigning together as a team is that we share a bond—not just with one another, but with the people we’re asking to serve.
It’s refreshing to see that when neighbors come together, politics doesn’t have to divide. Our unity is our strength. Together, we balance experience, perspective, and commitment. This is what Centennial deserves: leaders who stand shoulder to shoulder, lifting one another up, and putting residents first.
How You Can Help—From Anywhere
Even if you don’t live inside Centennial’s city limits, you can still play a critical role in shaping its future. That’s because this final week before the election is when campaigns are won or lost. Whether you’re sitting on your couch or driving in your car, there are ways to help. Share our message on social media, reach out to friends and family who live in Centennial, or support our efforts financially so we can get the word out.
Most importantly, take a few minutes to watch and share our campaign video: “And We Have Walked 500 Miles.” It captures the energy, joy, and commitment we bring as candidates and as neighbors.
A Call to Action
As C5, we are not just running for office—we are running for our community. For safer streets. For stronger neighborhoods. For keeping Centennial #1 in Colorado. For honoring our city’s 25-year history and preparing it for the next 25 years.
We’ve walked the miles. We’ve knocked on the doors. We’ve listened to the people. And now, we humbly ask for your support. Together, we can ensure Centennial remains a shining example of what local government can be when it is rooted in service, unity, and joy.
Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in commentary pieces are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management of the Rocky Mountain Voice, but even so we support the constitutional right of the author to express those opinions.