In 1891, what began as the fledgling town of Fletcher established by former Chicago resident Donald Fletcher, has grown into Colorado's third largest city with a diverse population exceeding 398,000 residents. Originally incorporated as a four-square-mile frontier settlement of farmers and ranchers just east of Denver, the community was renamed Aurora in 1907. The vision of those early pioneers created not merely a town, but the foundation for what would become one of Colorado's most dynamic and diverse municipalities, spanning nearly 100 square miles and embodying the moniker "The World in a City" with over 300 dining establishments representing cultures from around the globe.
Today, Aurora operates as a home-rule municipality under a council-manager form of government, combining the political leadership of elected officials - including a mayor, six ward members, and four at-large members - with professional administrative management. The city delivers comprehensive public services through more than 20 departments ranging from public safety, water utilities, and public works to library services, parks and recreation, and housing. With a dedicated workforce guided by the CORE 4 Values of Integrity, Respect, Professionalism, and Customer Service, Aurora continues to evolve while maintaining its commitment to being an inclusive community where innovation in public service creates opportunities for all who call this city home.