McDonald says Greeley council backs communications team after Cascadia criticism

Mayor Pro Tem Melissa McDonald said Tuesday that the Greeley City Council is united in supporting the city’s Communications and Engagement Department as it moves forward under new leadership after criticism over communication during the Cascadia and Catalyst process. McDonald, speaking during council reports, said she and Ward III Councilmember Johnny Olson had been outspoken about poor communication around those projects, but argued the communications staff had unfairly taken the blame.

McDonald said the city had hired a consultant during the process and that promised media outreach, including radio interviews and podcasting, never materialized. She also said the communications department had been directed by past leadership not to get involved. “I was really upset with the lack of communication when it came to West Greeley and the Catalyst Project,” McDonald said.

Reading what she said was a statement on behalf of the full council, McDonald said council members have “full confidence” in the Communications and Engagement Department. The statement said the council supports the team’s work to keep residents informed, engaged and connected to local government, while encouraging “creativity, innovation and fresh ideas” in how the city communicates internally and externally.

McDonald said the council wants the department to explore new approaches and emerging tools to reach residents more effectively. The statement also called for efforts to build trust, strengthen relationships and foster “open, transparent communication” as the city moves ahead.

“The council’s message is simple,” McDonald said. “We have confidence in our team. We support innovation and new ideas, and we are focused on the future.”