The Wheat Ridge City Council recently appointed 24-year-old Nicholas Scotella to the city’s election commission.
Scotella, a senior sociology major at the University of Colorado at Boulder, said he enjoys public policy and thinks young people are in a unique position to influence government.
New opinions can help invigorate communities that may be unsure of their future, he said.
“I was looking for the best place I could most logically get involved,” Scotella said. “I don’t know if I’d have as many opportunities available on a federal level. I have family in Wheat Ridge, I work here and I’ve lived here most of my life, so it seemed like a good place to start.”
Scotella has lived in Wheat Ridge since 1980 and graduated from Wheat Ridge High School in 1997. He now works there as an assistant music teacher.
Scotella said Wheat Ridge is an enjoyable place to live, work and raise a family because of its many opportunities for education, entertainment and social and family support.
“It’s a pretty well-rounded city, considering it’s surrounded by some larger cities like Lakewood and Arvada,” he said. “It’s still got a small-town feel to it, which is nice.”
Scotella, who enjoys playing the trumpet, painting and outdoor activities, said he isn’t sure if he’ll pursue a career in politics but is fascinated by the public sector of government.
“It’s something I’ll be involved with for the rest of my life, definitely,” Scotella said.
Councilman Mike Stites said he’s pleased with Scotella’s initiative to become involved in government.
“It’s always a good thing whenever anyone gets involved in government, but it’s especially good to see a young person get involved,” Stites said. “We’re happy to have him.”
The election commission, comprised of the city clerk, who serves as chair, and two registered electors of the city, assists the city clerk in election procedures and processes, establishes proof of residency qualification when necessary, and participates in county election campaigns.
Pam Anderson, city clerk and chairwoman of the election commission, said Scotella’s application was the only one received to fill the vacancy. One vacancy remains.
For more information or to apply, registered voters should call Anderson at 303-235-2823.