DENVER — Calling it "a grown man's childhood dream come true," Denver Mayor Michael Hancock reflected on his time in office in his farewell address Wednesday.
Hancock touted various accomplishments of his administration over the past 12 years in an approximately eight-minute long speech.
The outgoing mayor cited progress on the economy, infrastructure, affordable housing, police reform and climate action among other things, but acknowledged there is still plenty of work to be done.
"We made meaningful progress and yes, challenges remain," he said, "and they always will."
Hancock also addressed the political climate of our country, and said that polarization drowns out honest debate and fosters toxic mistrust in our systems of governance. He also decried attacks on the freedoms of women and the LGBTQ+ community.
"Progress on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in our society must remain secure everywhere for the good of all our futures," he said.
FULL SPEECH: Michael Hancock delivers farewell address
He also stressed the importance of voting, calling participation in democracy "the responsibility of all of us" and said it is a cause he will continue to support after he leaves office.
Hancock said Denver is heading in the right direction, calling it a city "brimming with opportunity, partnerships and collaborations."
He ended with a look to the next administration, and said he has confidence that Mayor-elect Mike Johnston "will achieve great things" and wished him luck.
Hancock's third and final term ends with Johnston's inauguration Monday, July 17.
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