There was a time when you could attend a city council meeting and witness transparency in action. Actual debates on issues that affected this town and every resident. Emotions ran high, logical explanations were offered, and options were weighed by councilors and city staff. You heard your district representative express opinions and voice concerns. Financial consequences were considered, solutions explored, and occasionally compromises reached. And believe it or not, not all councilors voted the same way. Gasp.
I had been asking about the loss of debate and the lack of transparency and was told to attend the business meetings for council. These, of course, are not advertised, and while some discussion can be heard, there is very little debate and almost no disagreement. We’re not looking for a fight, but at minimum, we’re looking for someone to stand up and say that spending 17 million dollars on a swimming pool is absurd. That perhaps selling one or two unused parks (out of the 24 we have) could fund meaningful programs for our aging population and maybe even a city-run, much-needed daycare center in one of the unused schools that’s been shut down. Something creative. Something needed. And then I heard the words, “Substitute motion.” A term I had never heard before.
What’s this? Fresh ideas? Creative solutions? Councilor Hultin and Mayor Stites throwing a wrench into the wheel of tranquility? Simply considering a Plan B. My friend Chad is rolling his eyes at my use of that term, but for those who know me, I’m all about Plan B. What if?
Hultin and Stites ushering in a new era of city council meetings. I spoke with Hultin, and she promised more debate and discussion—actually showing residents how and why decisions are made. More accountability. More understanding. And while it’s great to thank one and all for their work and efforts, it’s also okay to point out when things aren’t good enough and to consider what new options can and should be explored. Finally, a substitute motion.
Starting fresh in ’26 means so much. I’ve always preached that you get a “do-over” whenever you want one. Such is the environment and country we live in. Setbacks and hurdles generally exist in our minds, but reality still has to play a role. You can’t just wish for something better without working for it.
We have a great year planned for the Gazette. I’m incredibly excited about the new columns and writers joining us this year. Diane Allison bringing a sense of fashion and style to the Gazette is something I’ve wanted from day one. I’ve watched Diane take amazing photographs for years, and more recently open her thrift shop on 38th Avenue. Walking into her shop feels like time travel. I’m confident her column will be something we all enjoy.
I’m also over the moon to welcome our former Mayor Bud Starker and his wife Mary, who will be joining us with monthly reminders of “What’s Good in Wheat Ridge.” I challenged Bud to share the incredible things happening all around us—from new and improved retail shops to fabulous restaurants and the interesting personalities walking among us. I’m still working on a few more additions, including bringing back City Beat, a recap of happenings at our city council meetings. Now that transparency, debate, and discussion are finally being shared with the community. I’m also hoping to bring back Zach Urban for more regular contributions, especially after his recent victory over a $40 speed camera ticket.
Happy New Year to everyone. From all of us at the Neighborhood Gazette to all of you, here’s to a healthy and successful 2026.
And as always, thanks for reading.
~ Guy
