RANGELY I A surprise luncheon was held for Rangely town manager Peter Brixius and his wife Colleen in the banquet room at Betty’s Cafe Friday last.
The Rangely mayor, all the trustees and a few staff members commented on how Brixius has been a positive influence since June 2008 and presented him with a plaque, a weekend spa getaway and a bonus check for $1,000 for his leadership and accomplishments since 2008.
“It’s a pleasure to come to work every day,” Chief of Police Vince Wilczek said of the attitude around Rangely Town Hall.
“A lot of people were praying for someone to come help us,” said trustee Elaine Urie, who picked up the tab for the luncheon. “You come on the wings of prayers. We have never taken a loss since you’ve been here and it’s because of your leadership and taking care of things. You make our job as council and mayor easier.”
“We’re financially sound, the employees are happy and the town looks beautiful,” added Mayor Paula Davis.
“I’m very pleased to be here and support this community,” Brixius said. “I appreciate the support from staff and council, it’s been a good ride.”
“Peter Brixius first serves our community and puts all his efforts towards making Rangely a great place to live,” read a proclamation. “Today in recognition of this valued trait, of Peter’s loyal dedicated service, his faith and trust in God and his leadership we, the town council expresses our appreciation. Peter has accomplished so much in just a few short years … thank you, Peter.”
A list of some Brixius’ accomplishments for the community include:
– Improving the standard of living: School Street property and others, streets master plan, Striegel Park, police department and municipal building remodel.
– Marijuana moratorium.
– Shop and Dine, gas utility rebates and Rangely community survey.
– New businesses: Betty’s Cafe, Kum & Go and Family Dollar
– Won a battle with the State of Colorado to keep the town’s water rights safe.
– Advocate for community boards and districts working together.
– Diligently looks for ways to comply with forced state regulations in the simplest, most cost-effective way for the taxpayer.
– New water intake for the water plant.
– Looking into the future to upgrade or replace water plant.
– White River Village improvements: HVAC system, weatherization grant, new refrigerator, insulation and lighting.
– Working trails grant with Vicky Pfennig.
– Saving taxpayers money through improved efficiency of labor force, successful grant writing and good leadership affecting the bottom line.
Listed as leadership and employee accomplishments were:
– Peter leads by example with honesty, faith and trust.
– Works to help employees be more customer-oriented, instills professional work and provides the right tools and equipment.
– Enhanced employee benefits.
– Restructured labor to complete capital projects.
– Oversees and works with the chief of police improving services: drug enforcement, animal and code enforcement.
– Diligently keeps the council informed of current issues and honors the budget and guidance of the council.
Peter and Colleen have been married for 34 years.