Press Release

City of Aspen appoints Kate Johnson as new city attorney

ASPEN, CO – The city of Aspen is pleased to announce the appointment of Katharine A. Johnson as the new city attorney. 

Following an internal recruitment process, Aspen City Council approved this week an employment contract with Johnson, who has served as an assistant city attorney for the city since 2020.

Johnson will succeed Jim True, who announced his retirement in December of 2024, after nearly 13 years in the role.  True will remain with the city on a part-time basis as zpecial Counsel at least through the upcoming election and thereafter as needed by the City Attorney’s office.   

The Council considered options for the recruitment and selection process and decided to seek applications from internal candidates. After reviewing Johnson’s qualifications and conducting an interview, the Council determined that her extensive legal experience and deep understanding of municipal law make her the ideal choice to serve as city attorney.

“Kate has been a dedicated legal advocate for Aspen, and her knowledge of municipal law, combined with her commitment to public service, makes her a natural fit for this role,” said Aspen Mayor Torre. “We look forward to her leadership as we navigate the legal complexities that come with serving our vibrant community.”

Johnson has been licensed to practice law in Colorado for over 15 years and has worked as legal counsel for local governments in the Roaring Fork Valley throughout her career. Since joining the city, she has played a vital role in advising on key legal matters affecting the municipal government and the Aspen community. Having lived in the Roaring Fork Valley for more than a decade, Johnson brings a strong connection to the community she will now serve in this leadership capacity.

“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the city of Aspen in this new role,” Johnson said. “Aspen is a unique and dynamic community, and I look forward to working with City Council and staff to provide the legal support necessary to accomplish the city’s vision and goals.”

As required by the City Charter, the city attorney serves at the pleasure of the City Council and must be licensed to practice law in Colorado. The City Council is responsible for determining the city attorney’s compensation and ensuring alignment with the City’s legal and governance needs.

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For more information, please contact:
 Kate Johnson, city attorney
 (970) 987-3443
 Kate.johnson@aspen.gov
 Carolyn Sackariason, communications co-manager
 (970) 319-2791 
Carolyn.sackariason@aspen.gov