Winter Park Town Manager Keith Riesberg has announced his resignation after nearly seven years of leadership. During his tenure, the town of Winter Park saw advancements in community housing, transit infrastructure and trail management. 

Since Riesberg’s appointment in 2018, Winter Park has experienced significant growth in tourism and winter sports. Most recently, the town has been involved in Winter Park Unlocked: a $2 billion redevelopment plan led by Winter Park Resort.

The multi-year initiative will add more than 350 acres of new skiable terrain, a gondola connecting the downtown area to the resort and new hotels and restaurants. Once the expansion is completed, Winter Park will be the third-largest ski area in Colorado behind Vail and Steamboat.

“The biggest challenge the town has faced has been balancing growth while maintaining the character and feel that makes Winter Park so special,” Riesberg said.

One of Riesberg’s top priorities was expanding affordable housing. Projects under his guidance included the Hideaway Junction and Fireside Creek Apartments, which provided new affordable units with both ownership and rental options.

He also helped establish the Fraser River Valley Housing Partnership, a regional housing authority formed in late 2021 and funded by a voter-approved property tax. The partnership provides a long-term solution for funding affordable housing in the Fraser River Valley.

Riesberg has over two decades of experience in city management. Before coming to Winter Park, he worked as the city manager of Rio Rancho, New Mexico. His next role will be in Rolla, Missouri, where he will serve as the city administrator.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to be closer to family and friends, but leaving Winter Park has been a challenging decision,” Riesberg said.

His final day will be Sept. 12. The Town Council will begin a search process to identify a new town manager for Winter Park.

“The future of the town is very bright,” Riesberg said. “We have a strong strategic partnership with the resort and the advancement of their plans. It’s a great opportunity for the next town manager to continue building on the progress that has been made over the past several years.”