Every time I have a client thinking about moving to Wheat Ridge, I ask them straight up: “Are you moving here because of how we are… or because of how you want us to be?” That question never lands softly.
The City and Council are constantly trying to balance both sides. Improvements with no change. Updates everywhere but keep everything exactly the same. We all say we want progress — just not if it touches our quiet block, our amazing view, our crazy taxes, our precious routine. Sound familiar?
Last night’s council meeting had a little of everything. The “just moved here five minutes ago” crowd. The “I’ve been here 40 years” crowd. Somewhere in the middle? Respect. Some understanding, and yes — sometimes compassion for one group while completely ignoring the frustration of another. That’s long been the story.
Some councilors speak from a place of “we know better.” Others are still learning in real time. That’s the arena.
Larson stepping into the Xcel issue? Timely piece for sure. Our readers responded loud and clear. Hultin continues pulling a multitude of issues out of the shadows — always pushing for broader participation. Stites — now Mayor — has probably put in more visible work than anyone. Showing up. Leading from the middle. Taking the hits in District 3 and now citywide. And Mokada? Just dipping his toes in. First of what I hope are many contributions.
Every time the Councilor Corner column runs in the Neighborhood Gazette, the feedback pours in. People are paying attention.
And let’s be clear — city staff have been invaluable. Quick with facts. Cutting through rumors. Zoning, crime stats, development updates — on the ball. We don’t always agree. But the door is open. That matters.
Now let’s talk about the elephant… Change.
It’s everywhere. Wadsworth changed over five long years. 38th Avenue was, is, and will continue to change. Speed detectors popping up that feel more like revenue generators than safety tools. Businesses playing shell games with names to dodge taxes. A hospital moving across town after 100 years. That’s not minor. That’s seismic.
But do I love the speed traps? No. Was I thrilled with the Wadsworth project? Not exactly. Am I sold on a $17M pool or an expensive new city hall? Let’s just say… I have questions. But I am excited about Main Street on 38th. I love the Green on 38th Park. The Lutheran Campus redevelopment. Clear Creek Crossing. The new schools. New leadership stepping up. A new city clerk who understands the assignment. Change is all around us. It has been. It will be. What fascinates me is how often “change” is automatically framed as a dirty word. As if freezing Wheat Ridge in 1969 is somehow the goal.
Bowie sang, “Time may change me…” Whether we like it or not — it changes cities too. The real question isn’t whether change is coming. It’s whether we’re strong enough to shape it…
As always, thanks for reading.
~ Guy
