On December 16, 2025, City Manager Harold Dominguez addressed the Longmont Rotary, presenting a vision of Longmont as a "collective ecosystem" rather than just a government entity. He emphasized that the city’s health is defined by the interconnectedness of its nonprofits, schools, businesses, and residents.
Infrastructure and Utilities
Dominguez highlighted Longmont’s independence and stability. Unlike neighboring areas facing proactive power shutoffs from Xcel Energy during wind events, Longmont Power & Communications maintains a resilient "Level 11" system that manages risks in real-time without de-energizing the city. He also touted Longmont’s status as a national leader in internet service (NextLight) and its top-tier water and public safety departments.
Dominguez highlighted Longmont’s independence and stability. Unlike neighboring areas facing proactive power shutoffs from Xcel Energy during wind events, Longmont Power & Communications maintains a resilient "Level 11" system that manages risks in real-time without de-energizing the city. He also touted Longmont’s status as a national leader in internet service (NextLight) and its top-tier water and public safety departments.
Economic and Housing Challenges
The city faces significant "financial headwinds," including decreased property tax revenue and a 30% drop in use tax due to interest rates and tariff uncertainties. To combat the housing crisis, Dominguez highlighted the True North project—a pioneering partnership providing 185 affordable and workforce for-sale homes. He noted that currently, only 40% of city staff can afford to live within Longmont.
The city faces significant "financial headwinds," including decreased property tax revenue and a 30% drop in use tax due to interest rates and tariff uncertainties. To combat the housing crisis, Dominguez highlighted the True North project—a pioneering partnership providing 185 affordable and workforce for-sale homes. He noted that currently, only 40% of city staff can afford to live within Longmont.
Looking Ahead
Major upcoming initiatives include:
* Transit: The development of a new RTD transit hub and the success of the RideLongmont microtransit system.
* Regional Growth: Preparing for the regional impact of the Sundance Film Festival in Boulder.
* Public Safety: Continuing innovative diversion programs like "CORE" to prioritize mental health and restorative justice.
Dominguez concluded by reinforcing that while the city manages the foundation, it is the collective partnership of the community that drives Longmont forward.
Major upcoming initiatives include:
* Transit: The development of a new RTD transit hub and the success of the RideLongmont microtransit system.
* Regional Growth: Preparing for the regional impact of the Sundance Film Festival in Boulder.
* Public Safety: Continuing innovative diversion programs like "CORE" to prioritize mental health and restorative justice.
Dominguez concluded by reinforcing that while the city manages the foundation, it is the collective partnership of the community that drives Longmont forward.