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Gregg Palmer, Mayor
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| Gregg Palmer , Mayor |
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Phone (970) 244-1504
Fax (970) 244-1456
E-mail the Mayor
Message from the
Mayor
"You must give some time to your fellow man. Even if it is a little thing, do something for others - something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it."
Albert Schweitzer
I am often asked, as an elected official, "Why would you ever do that?" - the answer is easy, and it's complicated. For those of us who choose to serve our community, we do so because of a variety of reasons, but at the core are a few truths we each hold close. We have an obligation to give something back - giving of our selves is the truest form of caring, and we believe we can make a positive difference. I have never met an elected official who did not have in the depth of their heart a desire to help others. It is a trait shared by anyone who has ever coached a youth sports team, volunteered at church, or belonged to a service club. There are countless other examples, but the common spirit of helping is the centerpiece of being involved in your community.
Grand Junction is a community blessed with generosity and special people. I continue to be impressed with my fellow Councilmembers, and the many other boards and commissions on which they serve, in addition to their Council responsibilities. When I look at the continuing success each year of fund raising by the Lions Club, Kiwanis, and others, as well as the incredible success of Partners, the United Way, and so many others, I cannot help but feel pride in the community we call home. It is this spirit of everyone helping everyone that makes this a community, not just a city.
The opportunity to be involved in your community exists everywhere. The City takes applications for the many boards and commissions to which we appoint members. If you have interests in the arts, trails or riverfront, parks, historical preservation, or planning we have opportunities to serve. The County has an equal number of opportunities as well. Many local organizations also seek volunteers, so if you like gardening, coaching, mentoring or teaching, there are ample ways to share your passions and your talents. It truly is the people who make this community the place we cherish, and wish to call home.
I want to encourage all of you to share in the growth and success of our community. As we continue to grow in size, it becomes more important that each of us do what we can to keep the small town feel of a caring and interactive community. There is an abundance of talent and compassion in each of us, and it should be shared and given freely. Let's each do our part for our fellow citizens.
Sincerely,
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. "
Margaret Mead
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