Beginning as a Traffic Engineering intern in Englewood in 1989 and leaving as the Assistant City Manager 5 years later, Chuck Reid also served as Fraser’s town manager from 1995-2004 and Federal Heights’ City Manager from 2004-2007. Hopping then to the private sector, he spent 13 years at CliftonLarsonAllen providing outsourced management to mainly Title 32 entities, and then spent two years working full-time for the Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority. Following the pandemic, Chuck took a couple years off from work, and this year opened The Choice Is Yours, LLP, which provides contract services to local governments and nonprofit organizations.

What inspired you to pursue a career in public service?

A “show-cause” hearing regarding the Buffalo Rose’s liquor license.

What has been most meaningful to you about your career?  

Whoa! Hard question. Top 5 most meaningful projects:

- The Fraser River Trail

- The Federal Heights Elementary School Dental Program

- Improved Water Quality Relations

- A well-lit Millenium Bridge

- Jamestown – post 2013 flood

What part of your education at the School of Public Affairs has had the greatest impact on your work? 

Dr. Allen Wallis and Dr. Franklin James impacted my world view and provided me with the tools to blend my world view into my professional life and work.

What is your favorite memory of the School of Public Affairs?

Meeting and growing professionally with my classmates.

Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest challenges that your field faces? 

The potential loss of political neutrality.

What advice would you give to current students and/or professional development program participants at the School of Public Affairs?

At least once, do something that is completely outside of your comfort zone.