Neighbor to Neighbor: Sharing the stories of the people who call Lone Tree home

For Tom Rundell, it all started in Lone Tree with a holiday tree lighting. 

In 2018, Tom and his wife, Jenn, were exploring communities throughout the Denver metro area when they attended Lone Tree’s Merry Days celebration. 

“It checked all the boxes,” Rundell said. “The people, the atmosphere – it just felt right.” 

A few months later, they moved from Dallas to Lone Tree after Jen accepted a position at Sky Ridge Medical Center. Before making the move permanent, Lone Tree even became their weekend home base while house hunting. 

Now, more than six years later, Rundell and Jen can’t imagine living anywhere else. 

“What makes Lone Tree special is the people,” he said. “Everyone is welcoming. It’s a business-friendly community that’s easy to get around, and it’s been planned really well.” 

He also appreciates the City’s parks, trails and recreation opportunities. 

“It’s like belonging to a country club without paying the dues,” he said. 

Rundell has always been someone who gets involved. Growing up, he was editor of his school newspaper and captain of sports teams, and community service has remained a constant throughout his life. 

After moving to Lone Tree, he looked for ways to contribute. Rundell first joined the Citizen Recreation Advisory Committee, where he has served twice as the vice-chair, and helped redefine the committee’s role. Currently, Rundell serves on the Douglas County Open Space Advisory Committee, helping preserve open space throughout the county. Today, he also serves on the Lone Tree Planning Commission and as an alternate on the Board of Adjustment and Appeals. 

“I enjoy being part of the conversations about development and being challenged in positive ways working alongside an outstanding city council and staff,” he added. “Sometimes the most important thing we do is ask good questions. Whether our recommendations are accepted or not, asking those questions becomes part of the public process. 

As Lone Tree continues to grow, Rundell hopes the City stays true to the qualities that attracted him in the first place. 

“I like the direction the City is headed,” he said. “We’ve got a good master plan. As long as we keep planning thoughtfully and stay focused on the community, I think the future is really bright. My hope is that Lone Tree continues to grow while maintaining its strong sense of community, cooperation, and shared purpose.” 

For Rundell, volunteering isn’t about recognition. It’s simply part of being a good neighbor. 

“You have to have citizens who are willing to get involved,” he said. “That’s how you keep a community moving forward.” 

His advice for anyone wondering whether to volunteer is simple. 

“Just do it. There are so many opportunities in Lone Tree and Douglas County. You’ll meet great people, learn a lot and have a chance to help shape the future of your community. Once you become involved, you’ll build relationships, contribute to the City’s growth, and discover just how special this community is. I truly believe that once you experience it, you won’t want to leave.” 

Tom and Jen have become enthusiastic ambassadors for Lone Tree, often encouraging friends and family to visit and even relocate. 

“We brag about Lone Tree all the time,” Rundell laughed.  “We tell people to come see us instead of us going to visit them. We love it here.”