Controversial UCCS pres to run for county commission

The student body president of the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, who sparked a furor last fall after he refused to approve $2,100 in student activity fees to fund a gay group's "coming out" event on campus, is running for El Paso County commissioner.

David Williams, 22, announced Wednesday that he is running for the District 5 seat now held by Jim Bensberg, who is term-limited.

"I believe that one of the greatest privileges anyone could fulfill is public service, which is an honorable and humbling task," Williams said in a statement.

"The county needs a commissioner that will stand for what's right; a commissioner that will work to ensure that everyone can enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," he said. "This county deserves representation that is dedicated to providing limited government, low taxes, adequate public safety, and fiscal responsibility."

Williams also said in the statement that he is "not a politician."

But he got a first-hand lesson in politics at UCCS.

After he refused a request for student activity fees from a gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender club on campus, citing his "personal beliefs, views and convictions," he faced a recall.

The club accused Williams of discriminating against gays. However, UCCS Chancellor Pam Shockley-Zalaback cancelled the recall election after Williams filed an appeal.

Williams was eventually impeached and lost re-election this year to Daniel Garcia, who is openly gay.

In the statement, Williams said he has "no entrenched interests, other than those that concern the average, everyday citizen.

"I know that I'm not a typical candidate, but I do know that El Paso County wants a genuine public servant; a servant who believes in what's right and has the will to act on those beliefs, regardless of the consequences," he said.

-

Call the writer at 476-1623.