Suthers sworn-in as Springs’ 41st mayor

Colorado Springs officially has a new mayor.

John Suthers was sworn-in as the city’s 41 st mayor on the south lawn of the Pioneer’s Museum Tuesday morning (6/2/15)

The former Colorado Attorney General said he believes it might be the toughest job he has ever had.

“Colorado Springs has some real major challenges,” Suthers said. “Infrastructure in particular, new job creation and I when I look at the tough jobs I’ve had in the past, I’m convinced this is going to be the toughest.”

Infrastructure issues like potholes and stormwater are among the biggest challenges facing the new administration.

Suthers said a half-cent sales tax increase for potholes could generate up to 40 million dollars a year. He also said bringing new jobs to the city is a top priority.

Suthers beat former Colorado Springs Mayor Mary Lou Makepeace in a runoff election last month. He replaces Steve Bach, who served one term as the city’s first strong mayor.

Suthers thanked Bach Tuesday morning, saying he changed the mindset of city management. Suthers said he brings a different style to the job and that he will be reaching out more to city council.