Gradual growth, pleasant parks, and family festivals are what make Lone Tree an attractive community, mayor Josh Spilman tells Emily Marner. As he enters his final year in office, he takes time to reflect.

Amidst the wild roars of 2024, Lone Tree was the eye of the storm. Mayor Josh Spilman attributes the success of the town over the past year to the community and its ability to run things smoothly. In a time where life moves fast -- sometimes too fast -- Lone Tree is taking it slow and focusing on what means most.

For Spilman, what means most is feeling secure.

“Looking back over last year -- it sounds boring to say -- but I’m most proud that nothing bad has happened,” he says.

Lone Tree, like its namesake, sustains a quiet, steady growth. Every once in a while, it flashes with spirit, whether it’s celebrating a town tradition, a successful sports season, or supporting a new local business.

Every year, Lone Tree hosts its annual Fall Festival and Winter Festival. Both events garner a significant crowd, with parades, live music, and a plethora of activities. Holding large events such as these draw people in who may eventually become interested in moving to Lone Tree.

“Over the past year, we have done some work on developing land for new homes,” Spilman says. “We have torn down a few outdated houses and are working on renovating them.”

The mayor emphasizes his plans to continue that endeavor, making Lone Tree look more “attractive,” and it seems to be working. Spilman noted that there are no vacant houses in Lone Tree, and houses up for sale, do not remain on the market long.

What makes a town thrive is its community. The Lone Tree Community Foundation has done a lot of work with the city this past year to update the town’s parks. The newest addition is the freshly renovated ABC Park, with a Dr. Suess/wonderland inspired design. The Foundation has also created new murals and benches, making Lone Tree feel more like a destination despite its size.

2025 is set to be Spilman’s last year in office. There are many things that have gone exceedingly well, and some things that might have missed their mark.

“I didn’t take this job with an agenda, but the most important thing to me and to the community, at heart, is to grow”, Spilman comments.

There is still work to be done, like creating more opportunities for local participation like senior dining, or exciting events such as the Lone Tree Flyers’ RC airshow at the American Legion in June. Spilman hopes to improve relations with the local school, creating more connections and bolstering a better line of communication.

Lone Tree’s success over the past year reflects balanced, steady development. By focusing on preserving its charm, it draws in residents and visitors alike through thoughtful events, renovated spaces, and a strong community spirit. All of this in effort to ensure Lone Tree continues to be a small town with a big heart.