William L. “Bill” Carlson
Occupation:
Small business owner and accountant. I own Columbine Liquor and Sunshine Laundromat in downtown Palisade, and employee five people in this area. I am also a veteran, serving our country for three years in the U.S. Army.
How long have you lived in Palisade?
I have been a permanent resident for six and a half years, and a part-time resident since 2001.
Why are you running for a position on the Town Board?
I believe that smart growth and retaining our town’s water rights are crucial. I understand governmental accounting and want to help see that our funds are spent wisely to keep our town safe and ensure that it remains a desirable place to live, work, and visit.
Are you willing to commit to attending a majority of the Town Board meetings, missing meetings only in extreme cases?
Yes. I already attend most of these meetings since I believe it is important for ordinary citizens, not just elected officials, to be involved in local government.
Are you ready to put the time in to read and understand the packets prior to meetings and doing the other work that a Board member should do?
Yes. I already procure a copy of the packets and review them prior to the board meetings.
How many Town Board meetings have you attended to date?
I have attended seventy-five to eighty percent of the Board of Trustee and Planning Commission meetings in the past year.
What do you think are the big issues Palisade is presently facing?
— We must develop an updated Comprehensive Plan to guide the town’s future growth while at the same time preserving its unique character.
— We need to ensure Palisade retains its water rights.
How are you presently involved in the community of Palisade?
–I own two businesses and employ five people.
–I am an active member of the Palisade Chamber of Commerce and support local businesses.
–I am a sponsor of the Palisade Plunge Bike Trail (COPMOBA) which will bring more visitors and tourist dollars to our town.
–I am a sponsor of the Grand Valley Disc Golf Club at Riverbend Park.
–I participate in town events: for example, we have a table set up to give out candy at our annual Halloween Main Street Trick-or-Treat for the town’s children.
What would you do to promote economic development in Palisade?
I would advocate for further improvements to Riverbend Park, and work to enhance the quality of the festivals that we already have. The quality and logistics of our festivals can be improved to enhance visitors’ experience so they will keep coming back. I have experience in both of these areas.
What intrigues you about Palisade’s history?
The peach orchards. I have been coming here for Palisade peaches since I was six years old.
How does it apply to Palisade’s future?
Agritourism is vital to maintain a sustainable economy in Palisade. Our orchards and vineyards, along with the Colorado river, attract visitors to our area.
What do you see in Palisade’s future?
It is important to support policies that keep our orchards, farms, and vineyards intact, as they are the lifeblood of Palisade. They provide the scenery and the delicious fruit and wine that draw thousands to our area. As stated above, we can improve upon and expand our existing festivals, and also bring in new events, such as the inaugural arts festival that is scheduled for the end of September this year.
What would you do to guide/direct it?
–Ensure infrastructure is upgraded in our town to keep it safe, and make it easy to navigate for cyclists and pedestrians
–Upgrade and maintain our parks and the Veterans Center
–Improve and enhance our festivals
–Promote sustainable tourism
