Mayor's Message, April 2024

Friends and neighbors,

April has arrived and, with that, it’s time to spring into action! Spring is a time for planning and projects, and the Palmer Lake Parks and Trails Commission is no exception. They are hard at work not only creating trails but building bridges. The first breakaway bridge at Elephant Rock is near completion! The Parks and Trails Commission in collaboration with the USAFA engineering Cadets, have designed, built, and installed the first of three bridges, allowing creek side crossing and access to the Elephant Rock property. The vision of Parks and Trails is coming to fruition. As we take Spring hikes and jump on our bikes, let’s be reminded to thank a Parks and Trails Commission member for their dedication to making Palmer Lake trails accessible.

The Board of Trustees recently held a joint workshop with the Planning Commission and the Parks and Trails Commission to brainstorm a collaborative approach to planning the Elephant Rock property. The three bodies agreed to slow down, take a step back, and create a vison for a sustainable future for this gift. An advisory committee, authorized by the Board of Trustees, will be established to consider a sustainable vision for the entire Elephant Rock property site. This group will be tasked with looking at viable options for the property while incorporating citizen input and taking a hard look at the financial feasibility of the structures that currently exist on the property. This advisory committee will be led by Planning Commission member Susan Miner and will include two members of Parks, Planning and Board of Trustees along with several citizens. Please reach out to Susan Miner if this committee is something you are led to be involved in. In the wise words of C. Everett Koop, “Life affords no greater responsibility, no greater privilege, than the raising of the next generation.” Years from now, as our children and grandchildren are raising their own children in this community, my greatest desire is that they see that we established a path forward and a lasting legacy for generations to come.

I want to extend a huge thank you to all the wonderful people who supported the Fire Association’s pancake breakfast and came together to make this year’s Easter Egg Hunt the best ever! From the many candy donations and local business sponsorships, we stuffed about 7,000 eggs and were able to hire a phenomenal balloon artist and face painter. The joyful smiles of children running from treat to treat and taking pictures with the Easter Bunny will create lasting memories for many. One of the things I love most about this event is that multi-generation families come together in celebration. It is a true testament to our community. A hopping good time was had by all!

Staff is in the midst of conducting interviews for key town positions. Just a reminder to be both patient and forgiving during this time. All departments are working long hours to serve our community and keep up with the daily demands. Thank a town employee when you have the opportunity!

As always, please reach out if you would like to sit down and chat or have something on your mind. Working together is paramount to the future success of our community. We all have visions to share. Vison without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Visions with action can change the world. We are Palmer Lake and together we can move mountains.

Mayor Glant