Long Serving Trinidad Councilmembers Offer Farewell Remarks, Urge Civic Engagement

Members of the Trinidad City Council spent part of their December 16 meeting acknowledging transitions, expressing gratitude and urging continued public participation as three long serving officials prepare to leave office. Outgoing mayor Karen Griego and councilmembers Erin Ogletree and Eli DeBono each recounted milestones from their terms, highlighted the work of city staff, and thanked family members for support. Their terms end at the end of the calendar year.

Speakers reflected on a record that included navigating multiple city manager changes and the upheaval of the pandemic, noting that those stressors shaped policy priorities and administrative capacity. They portrayed public service as a privilege and emphasized that council decisions were driven by the community's needs rather than personal agendas. The tone at the meeting was one of gratitude and reflection, with emotional thanks directed to staff and family for their roles in sustaining municipal operations during demanding periods.

Continuing councilmembers commented on mentorship and continuity as the council prepares to welcome new members. They described efforts to smooth the transition, preserve institutional knowledge and maintain momentum on ongoing projects. The turnover comes at a time when long term initiatives, from infrastructure planning to budget decisions, depend on consistent administrative leadership. Multiple city manager changes during recent years have complicated implementation of the council's priorities, and the council will face the task of reestablishing steady governance.

For residents of Las Animas County, the changes on the Trinidad City Council have practical consequences. Shifts in council composition can alter policy emphasis and affect timelines for local projects. Institutional continuity will hinge on how quickly the incoming council and administration can align on priorities and on civic engagement that informs those priorities. The departing members called for community involvement and cooperation with the incoming council, underscoring the role of citizen participation in shaping municipal direction.

As the calendar turns, the council transition will be a focal point for local governance. The council and city administration will need to balance respect for recent accomplishments with renewed attention to administrative stability, so that ongoing work moves forward efficiently for the benefit of residents.