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Council approves ‘‘Water Runs Back’’ as name for new open space after consultation with Cheyenne and Arapaho tribal representatives
Summary
After outreach with tribal representatives and a public survey that drew community backing, the council unanimously approved the name "Water Runs Back" for a newly acquired 32‑acre open space property. Staff said signage will include Indigenous language translations and the site may include a native plant garden.
The City Council unanimously approved a resolution to name a 32‑acre open space property at 18100 County Road 7 "Water Runs Back Open Space," citing community engagement and consultation with Indigenous partners.
Kluge Leek, the city’s open space and trails specialist, described the multi‑step naming process: staff solicited public comment through multiple newsletters and an online poll (158 responses, 86% in favor), consulted the Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee, and engaged tribal representatives following the sister‑city outreach with the Cheyenne and Arapaho community. Leek said tribal representative Mr. Mosqueda visited the site and suggested the English name in keeping with Indigenous naming conventions — a place name tied to a notable natural feature. "As we were walking around the site, community ditch is a very prominent feature... he kind of looked at that and nodded at all of us and was like, I think you should name it Water Runs Back," Leek said.
Leek told council the action responders also asked that the name be translated into Indigenous languages (Ute, Cheyenne and Arapaho) and that the city would plan signage and a native plant garden to reflect the cultural and ecological significance of the property. The council’s Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee had unanimously recommended adoption of the name.
Ending: The resolution passed by unanimous vote; staff said they will follow up with indigenous language translations, design and signage and continue to coordinate programming when tribal delegates and youth groups visit the site.
