As a long-time Weld County resident, Barney Hammond's commitment to local governance runs deep. He has been actively participating in community affairs for decades and now, in semi-retirement, finds fulfillment in his civic duties as a member of the Weld County Planning Commission.

On the first Tuesday of each month, Hammond joins eight other volunteer Planning Commission members at the Weld County Administration Building. Together, they convene to deliberate on various land-use applications throughout the county. For Hammond, these meetings represent a departure from his days working as a landman in oil, gas, and development — a welcome change that allows him to make meaningful contributions to his county's future.

"I used to work those 65-hour weeks," Hammond chuckled, reflecting on his career shift. "Now, Zoom meetings fill my mornings, and I consult a few days a week. Coming here gives me a sense of purpose, especially in retirement. It feels good to be part of something bigger."

Hammond believes that government is most effective when the public is actively involved. His role on the Planning Commission is crucial for fostering effective governance and public participation in decision-making. "It's not just about showing up," Hammond explained. "It's about actively engaging and making a difference wherever possible.

"I was drawn to apply, because I wanted to contribute to the county,” Hammond reflected. It's a mutual exchange: I volunteer my time on the Planning Commission and, in return, stay informed about developments in Weld County Code and planning regulations, which helps me understand aspects I might not otherwise grasp or agree with."

While the opportunity to give insight on or understand future planning decisions drives Hammond to serve, others find value in their involvement because it’s a way to give back to the community that raised them. 

“Volunteering my time on the Fair Board allows me to help kids who were just like me when I was in 4-H,” said Bailey Naibauer, Weld County resident and Weld County Fair Board member since 2022. “I remember showing pigs at the Weld County Fair growing up and looking up to those in charge. The fair is a tradition in my family, and now here I am helping to put on the Weld County Fair so other kids can showcase their efforts. It’s really rewarding.”

Aside from the opportunity to improve government services, serving on boards and commissions has also helped people understand how they can have an impact on local government.

“Serving on the Fair Board has also allowed me to understand the county processes and what needs to be done to get something approved. A lot of what we do for the fair must be presented and voted on by the Fair Board and board of county commissioners. There is a whole process I didn’t even know about, and now I get to give my input,” explained Naibauer.

The opportunity to give input and learn more about county services is a critical benefit of boards and commissions, regardless of the mission and interest they cater to. For example, some boards and commissions focus on bettering programs aimed at older adults, providing recommendations on septic applications, giving advice on proposed building code changes, offering insight about how to control the growth of noxious weeds and much more.

"By serving on a board, you gain an inside look at the decision-making process and how county government and its departments work for the community and residents," said Karla Ford, Office Manager for the Weld County Board of Commissioners. For the past 10 years, Ford has been coordinating Weld County’s 20 boards and commissions, which currently have a total of 212 members.

Ford explained, "Each volunteer brings a unique background and perspective, which is why these boards and commissions exist — to ensure those we serve have a voice at the table."

While each advisory board and commission may have a different focus, they each offer residents the opportunity to learn more about a particular topic or service and offer recommendations on how they can be improved. Some volunteer commissions require experience or a deep background on a topic, but many others require no experience at all. The biggest prerequisite for volunteering is the desire to help services provided by Weld County Government be as beneficial as possible.

Hammond encourages others to explore these opportunities.

"There's a place for everyone to contribute," he insisted. "Whether through expertise or life experience, our communities benefit when we get involved. Many Weld County residents possess life experiences and knowledge that can positively impact our communities."

As Hammond continues his tenure on the Planning Commission, he remains dedicated to making a tangible impact on Weld County's future. His story illustrates the transformative power of civic engagement, demonstrating how individuals can actively shape their communities for the better by participating in local government rather than observing from the sidelines.

The new senior center at Hill N' Park is far more than a building. It's a focal point of the community. Learn about the partnership that made it possible in the next issue of County Roots.