Longmont’s Search to Fill Ward 2 Little Council on the Prairie
Tara Menza Aims to Shape Longmont’s Future While Preserving Small-Town Appeal
Marcia Martin’s tenure as the Ward 2 representative on the Longmont City Council officially ended on December 31, 2024, leaving the seat vacant as the city prepares to select her successor to avoid the expense of a taxpayer-funded election.
The City of Longmont invited qualified Ward 2 residents to submit their applications by January 8. The vacancy has attracted significant public interest with 18 out of 22 qualified applicants in the mix.
Among the applicants vying for the position is Tara Menza, a Longmont resident with a wealth of parenting experience and a deep commitment to her community.
Menza, who moved to Longmont with her husband and six children six years ago, expressed how the city quickly became home.
“When I first visited, it was that small-town community feel, without being part of a suburb, that was extremely attractive,” Menza said. “We found the house, and I just knew—this was it. We’re staying here.”
Menza emphasized the importance of creating a community where future generations can thrive.
“I want a community where my kids can grow up, and their kids can grow up, knowing we’ve put down roots in a place that feels like home,” Menza said.
As a former doula for military spouses, a substitute teacher, and co-owner of a small aerospace business, Menza’s life has been defined by service and adaptability. She also serves as Secretary for the Longmont Symphony Board of Directors, Vice Chair of the Longmont Chamber of Commerce’s Public Policy Committee, and a League of Women Voters member.
“I want to see Longmont grow successfully. I want to help contribute to that growth while maintaining the small-town feel that makes this place special,” Menza said. “It’s about thoughtful planning, innovative thinking, and addressing big-picture issues like housing and homelessness without compromising our community’s character.”
Menza’s background in policy, including her previous run for Colorado’s House District 11, has equipped her with an understanding of how governance impacts residents’ lives.
“State legislature affects the entire state, but city council decisions impact people here and now,” Menza explained. “I want to use my experience to ensure Longmont continues to thrive.”
On addressing the challenges of growth and housing in Longmont, Menza noted the need for comprehensive planning and zoning.
“It’s not just one problem; you can’t solve everything by addressing a single issue. We need to look at zoning, infrastructure, and diverse housing options—like condos and townhomes—for first-time buyers and seniors wanting to downsize. These solutions can help keep people in their homes without raising taxes or the cost of living,” Menza said. “We need to respect property rights while finding areas for density housing that help address the housing shortage without affecting the charm of our neighborhoods or lowering property values.”
Menza’s approach includes balancing the pressures of growth with the city’s appeal.
“Do we stifle growth like Boulder and push people out, or do we thoughtfully grow while maintaining our charm?” Menza said. “It’s such a great place to live, and we need to ensure that as we grow, we keep that sense of community.”
Addressing the challenges posed by homelessness, particularly in north Longmont, Menza advocates for thoughtful, community-driven solutions.
“We need to handle the homeless situation with grace and tact,” Menza said. “There are small businesses affected, and we need to figure out how to help the unhoused members of our community while also addressing the needs of local businesses.”
Menza highlighted the importance of wraparound services and partnerships with nonprofits, churches, and the private sector. Citing the Veterans Community Project as a model, she praised its success in housing and supporting veterans.
“Their program addresses mental health, addiction, and other challenges, resulting in an 84 or 86 percent success rate. It’s incredible,” Menza said. “That kind of out-of-the-box thinking—like tiny homes and comprehensive care—needs to be part of our solution.”
When asked about the skills she would bring to the council, Menza emphasized her ability to listen and think creatively.
“Very active listening skills are key,” Menza said. “I always try to look at the big picture, focusing on what serves the community as a whole, not just individual agendas. It’s about applying conflict resolution, problem-solving, and out-of-the-box thinking.”
Menza also highlighted her leadership style, which centers on engaging with others.
“I always go back to listening,” Menza said. “I take a thoughtful approach to what people have to say and make the best decisions based on what I hear from the community. I want people to feel like their opinions, concerns, and thoughts matter, just as I’d want someone to listen to me.”
Menza emphasized the importance of collaboration with other council members and the community.
“Collaboration will be key in aligning the needs of Ward 2 with the vision for the entire city. Together, we can thoughtfully grow while maintaining what makes Longmont special,” Menza said.
Menza’s appreciation for Longmont’s community spirit and livability drives her vision.
“It doesn’t matter what side of the political spectrum you’re on—people love being part of Longmont because they all want the same things,” Menza said. “It’s one of those communities that I just tell everybody that Longmont is the best place to live because it has all the accouterments you need for a big city, but it’s got that small-town feel where you can walk in the grocery store and see at least one or two people you know.”
Reflecting on the unusual circumstances of her potential appointment, Menza acknowledged the challenges and opportunities of stepping into the role mid-term.
“I wish the citizens could have had a voice in this. That’s democracy,” Menza said. “It’s definitely interesting to apply for a role where people would usually vote you in, but my approach will be the same—I’ll act as though I was voted in, representing the community with dedication.”
With a bevy of interested applicants having submitted applications by the January 8 deadline, the Council is set to interview applicants in a public meeting on January 21, before the swearing-in of the new representative scheduled for January 28.
Longmont residents can share their thoughts on candidates like Tara Menza by addressing the council by emailing them beforehand. The open forum to address the city council previously scheduled for January 21, will be replaced with an interview session of candidates and the appointment of a selected candidate.