by Blaine Howerton | NorthFortyNews.com
Decision 2026: Wellington Mayor Series
See how all three candidates answered the same questions → Read the full coverage
Focus on economy, water, and long-term planning
WELLINGTON, Colo. — Ed Cannon is seeking the mayor’s seat in Wellington, emphasizing commercial development, fiscal sustainability, and long-term water solutions as key priorities.
Cannon, a current trustee and former town administrator, points to decades of municipal experience and a focus on strengthening Wellington’s tax base as central to his campaign.
Editor’s Note: North Forty News sent identical written questions to each Wellington mayoral candidate. Responses are published in full, unedited except for minor formatting and clarity adjustments. Word limits were applied equally to ensure balanced coverage. Advertising inquiries are handled separately from editorial coverage and do not influence reporting decisions.
Question 1 – Vision
My vision for Wellington is to create a strong economy supported by job creation and retail development while securing a diversified, sustainable, and affordable water supply.
Each year, Wellington residents spend more than $114 million on goods and services in other communities because those services are not available locally. That represents an estimated $3.8 million in lost sales tax revenue annually — funds needed to support town services as our population grows.
For decades, Wellington has focused on building rooftops while largely ignoring commercial development. Our population is now around 13,000 and growing, and every new subdivision increases demand for services such as law enforcement, street maintenance, parks, and public infrastructure. Without commercial development, we lack the tax base to support those services.
We must also diversify our water supply to reduce reliance on expensive contract water. The cost of contract water has increased significantly in recent years, placing pressure on utility bills for residents and businesses.
My vision extends beyond a single term of office. Success would mean Wellington establishing a strong foundation for the future through business-friendly policies and investments in sustainable water solutions.
Question 2 – Water Strategy
Water security requires two key steps: negotiating a new contract with North Poudre Irrigation Company and building a diversified water portfolio.
Wellington currently receives water from three primary sources: the town-owned Wilson Wells, the irrigation company contract, and the town’s owned shares. While serving as Town Administrator in 2018, I recommended that the town begin purchasing shares, and Wellington now owns 75 shares.
For the past three years, the town has also been negotiating to secure a new contract that would reduce the cost of contract water. Additionally, Wellington has been exploring opportunities with another water provider that could help reduce reliance on expensive contract water.
Together, these efforts would create a more stable and affordable water supply for the community.
As we move forward, we should continue seeking ways to reduce water costs while maintaining long-term sustainability. Wellington must avoid repeating past decisions that solved short-term needs but created higher costs over time.
Question 3 – Economic Development
Wellington should use every tool available under Colorado law to encourage commercial development. One step toward achieving this would be exploring whether Wellington should become a home rule municipality, allowing the town to adopt ordinances tailored to local needs and provide greater flexibility in attracting investment.
Another important tool is tax increment financing, commonly implemented through Downtown Development Authorities and Urban Renewal Authorities. These programs allow municipalities to create incentives that help overcome barriers to commercial development.
While serving as City Manager in Illinois, I used these tools to support retail, housing, and industrial projects that expanded the local tax base.
Wellington can maintain its character by establishing development and façade standards that reflect the community’s identity, particularly in the downtown district. With the right tools and planning, Wellington can grow its commercial base while preserving what residents value.
Question 4 – Fiscal Stewardship
Municipal budgets must be balanced by law, but they include multiple revenue sources such as grants, loans, and fund balances. Responsible budgeting requires adherence to state law, sound financial policies, and a focus on long-term sustainability.
Budget planning should align with the town’s strategic and capital improvement plans. Projects should only move forward when they have a sustainable funding source.
Wellington’s financial practices have received recognition for budgetary excellence, and previously outstanding audits have been completed with clean results.
The town’s budget process includes public meetings, hearings, and opportunities for community input, helping ensure transparency and accountability.
Question 5 – Community & Growth
Wellington’s growth should be balanced by strengthening commercial development alongside residential expansion. Planned subdivisions will increase demand for town services, making a stronger commercial tax base essential.
The town has made progress in planning infrastructure, including expanding water and wastewater capacity. Continued diversification of water sources will be important for long-term needs.
Community feedback shows interest in amenities such as a community center, recreation programs, and expanded trails. Providing these will require a stronger economic base supported by commercial growth.
Question 6 – Closing Statement
Wellington should continue developing into a strong, independent community for residents and businesses.
I have spent more than 40 years working in municipal government and community development, and I believe that experience provides valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Wellington.
Leadership and experience matter when making decisions that affect the long-term future of a community.
Contact:
[email protected]
edcannonforwellingtonmayor.com
Explore all candidates:
→ Ed Cannon Q&A
→ Rebekka Dailey Q&A
→ Christine Gaiter Q&A
→ Full election coverage: Decision 2026: Wellington Mayor
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