Welcome to Delano
By Mayor Dale Graunke
It is an exciting and optimistic time in Delano. The future is bright and our community is certainly headed in a positive direction.
In recent years, a number of challenges have faced Delano. Road construction, floods, and the international economic downturn are a few such hurdles. Yet despite these challenges, the strengths of Delano’s strong community have led the way.
Delano has a rich tradition and a strong presence today of civic participation and community organizations. While many communities around the country struggle with decline in these areas, Delano is blessed. Numerous studies have shown community participation nationally to be on the decline, but in Delano the trend is much different.
Delano is blessed with the conviction of its residents and business owners to pitch in and lend a helping hand. This attitude has led to forming task forces and working groups to find creative ways to meet community.
Civic participation is nothing new to Delano. Its strong community organizations and civic groups have been a hallmark of the community for many decades. The community’s ability to work towards a common purpose and a greater good make Delano a unique and special community.
As an example, the city’s annual festival – Delano’s Fourth of July Celebration – is run by a collaboration of organizations and community members. The fact that it has become the state’s oldest and largest Fourth of July celebration is a testament to the efforts of the organizations and community members that keep this tradition so strong.
There are too many organizations in Delano that are vital to the community’s well-being to list. It’s the collection of these entities that provide many different levels of community services and activities.
The city council’s goals and objectives for the coming year reflect the desire to assist and continue fostering the success of the many community organizations.
Working together, the community can continue the efficient delivery of services and protection of the high quality of life. This collaboration will help keep property taxes amongst the lowest in the area, encourage new investment in the community, and further sustain the great small-town feel Delano has worked to build.
As mayor, I am excited to continue being part of this Delano tradition in a new role. I encourage all residents and business owners to continue their contributions to the community and look for other areas to take part.
