In April of 2022, Woodland Park elected Hilary LaBarre as Mayor. Hilary was elected to the honorable role of serving her community, the first woman to hold the position in Woodland Park’s 132 year history. March is Women’s History Month, and Mayor LaBarre reserved a few moments of her busy schedule for a get-to-know-your-Mayor opportunity…

Hilary grew up in the Denver area and is a fourth-generation Colorado native. As a child, her career aspirations were to become a veterinarian. She is a devoted pet owner, partial to poodles. As many young people do, new opportunities sparked new interests, and the Mayor followed a different path in her life and pursued law. Her focus was the field of criminal law, working in a child and family investigative firm. This particular niche requires a lot of heart and soul, helping families navigate incredibly difficult circumstances. When asked to describe herself in just three words, empathy was one she offered, and certainly this is a key contribution to her former and current roles. After meeting her husband, Mayor LaBarre entered the field of real estate, where she’s gone on to become a successful investor and agent across the Front Range. 

Mayor LaBarre began her service to the Woodland Park community by first serving on the City Council in 2018, later being appointed as Mayor Pro-Tem in 2020. She was encouraged to run for Mayor by the City and many members of the Woodland Park community. Choosing to run for Mayor also means choosing to share your time, energy and character freely. One arduous component to the role of Mayor, is addressing misinformation in the media and community. Mayor LaBarre, when speaking recently at the Citizens Academy, shared with students that having “thick skin” and patience are essential, and some of her greatest assets she utilizes in her role as Mayor. 

Hilary is passionate about protecting her community from large government overreach, and shared that this is a primary focus she’s held during her term. When considering additional personal goals and aspirations for the Woodland Park community, Mayor LaBarre hopes to expand citizen participation and volunteer efforts, as well as endeavors to beautify our community for generations to come. Mayor LaBarre expressed her gratitude towards the City and staff and her friends and family alike. Together, they all weave an essential support system, contributing to her success and that of the wellbeing of Woodland Park. She acknowledged that having family support to share responsibilities and roles is particularly essential to help create better balance as a woman in today’s workforce. 

Many will know Hilary as our Mayor, outstanding agent, and volunteer in our community, but like each and every one of us, Hilary is also a private citizen with a flourishing life outside professional boundaries. She is a compassionate caregiver to her aging mother suffering with Alzheimers. This is the one role she is most proud of. Hilary has artistic talent. She designs exquisite costumery, which can be seen at Reserve Our Gallery locally. To support other developing artists, she will soon be featuring ‘The Mayor’s Corner’ in the Gallery, offering artists the opportunity to showcase their work, without the worry of affording gallery space. She enjoys traveling, and Venice is her favorite destination for food, culture and architecture. One of her most beloved authors is Ann Rice, and she cherishes her generous signed collection.

When asked what one piece of advice have you given or received that sticks with you above all others? “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”  Maya Angelou. 

Mayor LaBarre is committed to doing better for Woodland Park.