News Release
City of Wheat Ridge selects Jill Mendoza as Economic Development Manager
WHEAT RIDGE, CO – (June 1, 2026) – The City of Wheat Ridge has selected Jill Mendoza to serve as economic development manager and executive director of Renewal Wheat Ridge. In this role, she will lead implementation of the Wheat Ridge Prosperity Plan by advancing redevelopment efforts, supporting business retention and recruitment, and leveraging urban renewal tools to catalyze strategic investment throughout the community.
Mendoza brings more than 15 years of experience working at the intersection of marketing, economic development, and business development. Throughout her career, she has led transformative projects across the Denver metro region, including development of a new downtown district, regional mall redevelopment, wildfire disaster recovery efforts and mixed-use projects that have revitalized communities and strengthened local economies.
A strategic and collaborative leader, Mendoza is recognized for building partnerships among businesses, community leaders and stakeholders around shared goals that drive sustainable economic growth. Her work has focused on community-based economic development strategies that enhance quality of life, support resiliency and strengthen place.
“Jill brings a strong vision for community-centered economic development and an impressive track record of leading impactful projects across the region,” City Manager Patrick Goff said. “Her experience building partnerships and advancing strategic investment will help continue Wheat Ridge’s momentum as we move into our next chapter.”
Mendoza is also actively involved in advancing the economic development profession through service on boards, committees, and statewide organizations focused on collaboration, policy, and sustainable growth across Colorado.
She succeeds Steve Art, who retired earlier this month after 15 years of service to the City of Wheat Ridge.
“Steve’s impact will continue to be felt across the city and beyond,” Goff said. “His leadership, dedication and collaborative spirit helped move Wheat Ridge forward in meaningful ways, and we are deeply grateful for the foundation he built over the past 15 years.”
Mendoza said she is excited to join the city and begin building relationships with local partners, businesses and community leaders.
“I’m honored to join the City of Wheat Ridge at such an exciting time and look forward to helping implement the Wheat Ridge Prosperity Plan while supporting the continued growth and success of the community,” Mendoza said. “Wheat Ridge has a strong sense of identity, momentum, and opportunity, and I look forward to collaborating with community partners, businesses, and residents to help support and shape the city’s Next Chapter together.”
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About The City of Wheat Ridge
Wheat Ridge, a vibrant community of 33,000 just west of Denver, combines unique neighborhoods with thriving retail and commercial spaces. Named an All-America City in 2022 and consistently ranked in the top ten of best places to live in Colorado, Wheat Ridge continues to earn national recognition, including a 2024 induction into the National League of Cities Hall of Fame.
With crime rates back to pre-pandemic levels and a strong financial outlook, the City of Wheat Ridge is well-positioned for growth. Backed by voter-approved investments, Wheat Ridge is making major strides in infrastructure, parks, and sustainability while delivering exceptional quality of life for its residents.