On this episode of EngagingCommunities, join host Kelly Hickler as she chats with Abe Herman, the outgoing mayor of Grand Junction, Colorado — and possibly the only rock climbing mayor you’ll meet. Abe shares how he went from outdoor educator and small business owner to elected office, and how he’s navigated community engagement as a policymaker without a traditional planning background.

We dive into the challenges of balancing vocal public feedback with broad community needs, navigating polarized conversations with respect, and rolling out a controversial traffic calming pilot in Grand Junction’s award-winning downtown. Abe brings honesty, humility, and humor to a conversation that reminds us what true public service looks like, and why local government can be both frustrating and inspiring.

Welcome to the very first in-person episode of EngagingCommunities (formerly known as EngagingCities Fireside Chats) the official podcast of the APA Community Engagement Interest Group.

Join host Kelly Hickler as she chats with Nora Bland and Laura Doherty from Cushing Terrell, a multidisciplinary design firm based in Denver. Together, they explore what community driven design really looks like in practice, from creative outreach methods to project wins (and missteps) that shaped better outcomes.

Don’t forget to join the Interest Group at https://apacommunityengagement.org It’s free and open to all!

Join Kelly on scene at the American Planning Association National Conference in Denver for a fun pop-up podcast.