Edgewater is a special place, and I am so thankful that I have lived here for over 26 years. I’m also thankful for longtime residents and those that have moved here more recently. I’m thankful for our vibrant business community, our wonderful volunteers and City Council members and for the great City staff.
In my first year as Edgewater Mayor, I’ve had many chances to share with others how special Edgewater is. Whether it’s talking to members of the other 58 municipalities in the Denver Regional Council of Government, the other Mayors in the Metro Mayors Caucus, hosting the other Jeffco Mayors for lunch in Edgewater or talking with the many area businesses in the Jeffco Economic Development Corp., it is fun talking about the great things going on in our small community. I was also able, with our City Manager Dan Maples, to welcome a state department delegation from Kosovo to Edgewater as part of their visit to many area municipalities to learn about cooperation between cities and counties. They spent some time playing basketball at the Rec center, taking a break from all the meetings they had. I think they’ll remember Edgewater!
Two of our biggest successes this year were the work at both Citizens Park and on 25th Avenue. The city team and their partners did a great job with improvements at the park. The work along 25th between Sheridan and Benton is transformational. I am so thankful to the businesses for their patience and understanding as the streetscape project was inconvenient for them, but hopefully long term with the hassle. I’ve heard so many positive comments about 25th from both residents and visitors.
We had some great events this summer, especially the Hometown Festival! Thanks to all the volunteers, staff, vendors, entertainers and attendees for being a part of a great event.
If you want to get involved in Edgewater, be sure to check out www.EdgewaterCO.gov for details on boards and commissions openings. We’re also now in the process of filling an open City Council seat.
Finally, I want to recognize two Edgewater employees for their efforts. Jennifer Schartz has been with the city for over 20 years. I remember she was one of the first staff members I really got to know. Her enthusiasm and dedication really made a difference. Jennifer just retired and is moving out of state. Edgewater won’t be the same, and we are in her debt for her efforts through the years. Also, Police Chief Eric Sonstegard is returning to California. While the Chief was here for only a short time, he really advanced community policing in Edgewater. He helped maneuver through some difficult issues that he inherited and brought a special approach to his role. On a regular basis, he made it to our Friday Coffee and Conversation and really connected with many of our senior residents. I also was able to do a ride along with the Chief not too long ago, and it was great seeing how many residents he knew on a first name basis. His efforts are appreciated, and I know from the many comments I’ve gotten from residents and businesses in Edgewater, he will be missed. The Chief will be here until early December, and City Manager Maples is responsible for selecting his replacement with community input. Stay tuned for more details.
