When I think of one word that best describes Hayden, it is passion.  Our citizens are passionate about living here, each for their own reasons.  Some enjoy the close proximity to our natural resources, including Hayden Lake, our neighboring forests and rivers, ski and snowboard lodges within an hour, and the regional aquifer.  Still others are passionate about maintaining the quality of life we know and love while navigating inevitable change that accompanies time.

For me, I feel lucky.  We moved to Hayden in 2012 after concluding my first career as a Naval Officer.  As we didn’t know the area as intimately as we do now, we could just have easily “dropped anchor” in Post Falls, Rathdrum or Coeur d’Alene.  But I am honored to be able to expand my passion as Hayden’s Mayor.  It is an exciting time to be here, as I’ve watched over the past decade how small businesses have developed and supported our local economy.  Our central business district is slowly getting the facelift it needs, thanks to our urban renewal district and to adventurous businesspeople finding Hayden a great place to set up shop.  Additionally, our light industrial area has grown and contributed to providing our citizens jobs and to attracting new business.

Hayden is challenged by a post-COVID influx of new citizens and we are working hard with our community partners to improve opportunities for younger families.  As our entire region has experienced significant growth, we are learning that our roads weren’t built for the number of cars that traverse the city daily.  Honestly, there are many challenges ahead for our city, but we have a fabulous team working at City Hall.  The two most impressive traits they’ve demonstrated to me is how they all work so well as a team, and how they bring ideas to improve their products and services.

I hope that you will visit Hayden and explore your own passions as you enjoy our restaurants, recreational opportunities and unique small business offerings.

- Mayor Alan Davis