Mayor Michael Hancock spoke like a leader this afternoon, not about beer or the 16th street mall which are worthy topics indeed, but about the 9th and Colorado Fuqua/Walmart development which we so desperately wanted to hear.

First, the Mayor was for the stakeholders:

     “The redevelopment of the site at 9^th and Colorado is a priority for Denver.  Through a collaborative process, the stakeholders have convened to explore the options of this site, and the neighborhoods have been heard.  Together we will work to deliver a project that serves the community and will create jobs and prosperity in a central corridor of the city. “Walmart remains a valued partner to the city, serving many of our neighborhoods and providing thousands of jobs. “Moving forward, the city remains steadfast in its commitment to see this site redeveloped.  We will continue to support the stakeholders – the University of Colorado, City Council, residents, local businesses and the developer – and communicate with the neighborhoods in an inclusive and transparent manner.”  The previous statement was from John Rebchook’s Site

Then, in the meeting tonight, he acknowledged that opposition had succeeded in driving Walmart from the 9^th and Colorado project thereby forcing Fuqua to look for alternatives.

     “We received confirmation today that Walmart will not be part of the planned redevelopment of the site,” Hancock said as neighbors burst into cheers. “Walmart heard you, (developer Jeff) Fuqua heard you.”

Then, he was not dictating:

     “We’re not dictating one way or the other if it’s a series of small boxes, junior boxes or big boxes.”

Then, he said his goal is to deliver:

      “Deliver a project that serves the community and will create jobs and prosperity in a central corridor of the city.”

(Note he said his goal. We like it when he is accountable and takes charge.)

Then, when asked if he supports public financing, he spoke like a political leader.

     “You know, the bill has to make sense for the city. If it grows jobs, if it grows our tax base, then we take a very serious look at it.”

Thank you Mr. Mayor.  Now you are doing your job.

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