The City of Wheat Ridge Let’s Talk Resident Engagement Program received the Metro Vision Award from DRCOG for 2023. The Let’s Talk program is being recognized for its successful efforts to engage with the community and because it serves as a model that can be replicated by other communities.
The program began in 2020 as a result of hearing that residents were seeking to weigh in on topics that impact their neighborhood. During these neighborhood focused engagement periods (a “blitz”), residents answer questions like “what do you love about your neighborhood?” and “what improvements would you like to see?”. The answers from these questions are evaluated, and a set of potential action items are presented to residents for more feedback.
Over 1,800 residents have participated so far, and their input has led to responsive budget requests (e.g., street improvements), new or expanded programs (e.g., neighborhood cleanup events), and new projects (e.g., an affordable housing strategy).
“This is not a traditional planning effort; it doesn’t span many months, doesn’t require consultant staff, and doesn’t result in dust‐collecting formal plans. It’s back‐to‐basics planning, listening, and relationship‐building. The city is honored to have received this award and we are looking forward to continuing this effective engagement method,” stated Community Development Director Lauren Mikulak.
Learn more about the Let’s Talk Resident Engagement Program on What's Up Wheat Ridge.
About the City of Wheat Ridge
The City of Wheat Ridge offers a mix of retail/commercial businesses and unique residential neighborhoods with easy access to the Denver metropolitan area. The community of nine square miles is located immediately west of Denver with a population of 33,000 residents. This home rule city was incorporated in 1969, however, its rich heritage extends back to the 1800s.