Former Mayor Herman criticizes city council for bypassing public input on impact fees

The Grand Junction City Council meeting on May 21, 2025, featured significant discussions regarding transparency and public engagement in local governance. Former Mayor Abraham Herman addressed the council, expressing concerns over a recent decision-making process that he described as a circumvention of public input.

Herman highlighted a contentious issue surrounding impact fees, which had undergone a lengthy review process involving various stakeholders. He noted that the council had previously reached a consensus on lowering certain fees, including the affordable housing linkage fee. However, he criticized the council for placing a related item on the consent agenda with minimal notice, effectively limiting public discussion and input.

During his remarks, Herman emphasized the importance of transparency and community involvement, urging the council to acknowledge the mistake and work towards rebuilding trust with residents. He pointed out that the lack of public engagement in this decision led to frustration among community members who felt their voices were ignored.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges local governments face in balancing efficient decision-making with the need for public participation. As the council moves forward, the call for greater transparency and community involvement remains a critical issue for residents of Grand Junction.