As I approach convening my final council meeting as Woodland Park’s Mayor, I want to reflect briefly on why I first chose to run and what we set out to accomplish together.

When I entered office as a member of the Woodland Park City Council in 2018, my overarching goal was simple but important: to restore fiscal accountability and put our city back on a path of recovery. I believed then—and I still believe today—that a strong community must be built on a solid financial foundation. From a fiscally conservative, small-government perspective, our focus was not on expanding government for the sake of expansion, but on making smart, disciplined decisions that would allow our community to thrive long into the future.

Today, I am proud to say that together we have made real, measurable progress. We have paid down a meaningful portion of the city’s debt. We have strengthened our financial position so that we are no longer reacting to challenges, but planning confidently for what lies ahead. That kind of stability does not happen overnight or accidentally—it comes from careful stewardship, responsible budgeting, and a commitment to living within our means.

At the same time, fiscal responsibility never meant standing still. We made thoughtful investments where they mattered most. The city has secured significant open space that will benefit our residents and visitors for generations. We have continued beautification efforts that enhance both the character of our community and the pride people feel when they call this place home. We reorganized staffing to make operations more efficient and effective, and today the city is running smoothly, responsibly, and with a clear sense of direction.

What matters most to me is not any single project or decision, but the position we are in today. We are moving into the future financially secure. We are stable, prepared, and able to take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves—without putting future taxpayers at risk. That was the vision from the beginning, and it is a vision I believe we have honored together.

But every generation of leadership is given not only accomplishments to celebrate, but responsibilities to carry forward. So, I want to leave the city with a few challenges for the future.

First, protect the financial discipline we have worked so hard to restore. It is far easier to spend than it is to rebuild trust and stability. Continue to prioritize responsible budgeting, long-term planning, and decisions that respect the taxpayers who make everything possible.

Second, be thoughtful about growth. Growth will come, but the challenge is to ensure it reflects the character and values of this community. Protect our open spaces. Support local businesses. Plan infrastructure wisely so that growth strengthens the city rather than straining it.

Third, continue investing where it truly matters. Invest in the people who serve this community every day. Invest in the beauty and livability of our city. And invest in projects that create lasting value—not short-term headlines.

Another important challenge for the future is to continue nurturing the relationships that have been built with our partners in government. Strong cooperation with the county, the school district, regional organizations, and neighboring communities is essential to long-term success. When we communicate well, work together, and respect each other’s roles, we accomplish far more than any one entity can on its own. Those partnerships must continue to grow and remain a priority for future leadership.

And finally, never lose sight of what makes this city special. Communities don’t succeed because of government alone—they succeed because residents care, volunteer, support one another, and take pride in where they live. That spirit is our greatest strength, and it must always come first.

Before I close, I want to leave you with one final thought. No matter what challenges or opportunities lie ahead, I hope we continue to treat each other with kindness and respect. Support one another. Encourage one another. And just as importantly, take the time to celebrate the successes—big and small—that make this community such a special place to live. When we choose to lift each other up, everything else becomes easier, and our city becomes stronger in ways that no budget or policy ever could.

I want to thank the City Council and previous City Councils I have had the honor of serving with, our dedicated and talented city staff, community leaders, local businesses, and most importantly, the residents who have trusted us to do this work on your behalf. Progress like this only happens when people care deeply about their community and are willing to work together for something larger than themselves.

It has truly been an honor to serve. I leave this role confident in the direction of our city, proud of what we have accomplished, and optimistic about what is still ahead. The foundation is strong, the future is bright, and the best chapters of this community are still to come. And, rest assured, I am not going anywhere any time soon!

Thank you, and may this city continue to grow with responsibility, purpose, and pride. I love and cherish you all!