Evans elections looming

EVANS -- When Evans mayor Sherry Melby received her first paycheck from the city she thought there was a clerical error.

"When I got on (council), I didn't even know you got paid," Melby said. "The first time, I thought it was a mistake."

The check wasn't much. But then again, Melby has never been mayor for the money.

Since 1995, when Melby was appointed mayor, she has represented the community because she cares for it and what's the best for it.

"It's a wonderful experience, but it's a lot of work," Melby said. "You really have to care about the city you live in."

In April, Evans city officials will hold their election, and Melby, who is out of terms, will step down.

Melby said she has enjoyed every moment of being in office, but she looks forward to having the chance to spend more time with family and friends.

Her legacy to council, if she had to choose one, would be that she never once missed a meeting in her tenure as mayor.

<strong> Important dates</strong>

Feb. 8 - Candidate nomination packets available
Feb. 22 - Candidate nomination packets due
Week of March 17 - Ballots mailed out
April 8 - Mail-in ballots due
Candidate nomination packets may be picked up at the Evans Community Center, 1100 37th St.
Ballots may be dropped of at the Evans Community Center, 1100 37th St.
For more information call: (970) 475-1104

"I've loved every minute of it, and I wouldn't trade a minute of it," Melby said. "It's kind of bittersweet, but I'm ready. I'm ready to move on to the whatever is next."

What's next for the city of Evans is a mail-in ballot election on April 8. Four seats will be open on council, said Kim Betz, city clerk. Aside from mayor, seats in wards 1, 2 and 3 will be open this election.

Councilman Lyle Achziger, 60, is the only person who has officially announced a run for mayor.

"I've gotten very interested in city government. I saw the need in change and direction of the city," Achziger said. "I've been involved in public service most of adult life and saw this as an opportunity to continue after being retired."

Achziger retired from the Evans Fire Department in 2004 and the Weld County paramedics ambulance service in 2005. He has served on the Evans City Council since April 2006 and believes in that time he has made progress.

"We have accomplished a lot as far as budget and city development," Achziger said.

If elected, Achziger said the economy would be a primary focus for him.

"Economic development is something I would really like to emphasize for the city of Evans," Achziger said. "There are a lot of big issues for Evans ... but at the end of the day, you have to pay the bills."

Responsible growth, water rights and transportation are other issues Achziger noted.

Melby said she supports Achziger and thinks he would make a good replacement.

"I admire his qualities, and I feel very relieved that I am leaving it in capable hands," Shelby said.

As for running unopposed, Achziger said he would prefer people have a choice in their city officials, and said he encourages residents to get more involved.

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David Young