Parker honors Civic Academy graduates as residents press council on Clark Road parking, road safety

Parker's town council opened its regular meeting with a recognition of the town’s newly revitalized Civic Academy, presenting certificates to program participants and inviting them to a post‑meeting reception.

Mayor Rivero described the program as an effort to “educate, engage, and empower those who live, work, or own a business in Parker,” and called graduates “community ambassadors” as council members posed for a group photo.

During the public comment period, lifelong resident John Copz told the council he owns property on Clark Road and said tenants were recently told by a police commander they can no longer park there. Copz asked the town to inspect and upgrade the street, saying it is narrow and has received only “band‑aid” repairs for decades and is not built to current standards. “Please drive that road and tell me if you think it’s up to the standards of this town,” Copz said.

A youth delegation that identified itself as Audrey Jackson and Bailey Menhal urged the council to address road safety across Parker. Presenters said Parker Police Department data for January–July 2025 showed “505 non‑injury crashes, 54 injury crashes, two fatal crashes, and eight with a non‑motorist involved,” and proposed stiffer penalties for repeat offenders, graduated sanctions for probationary drivers, stronger enforcement of jaywalking laws, and more visible signage.

Mayor Rivero and staff reminded speakers that the council does not engage in extended dialogue during the public comment period but said staff would review the concerns and follow up. Council members expressed appreciation for the Civic Academy participants and for community members who brought safety and infrastructure concerns to the meeting.

The council recessed briefly for photos and announced a reception for the Civic Academy graduates at the end of the meeting.