Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

The Budget and Policy Committee of the Denver City Council held an informational session on June 8, 2026, to receive an update on the proposed 20-year electric franchise agreement with Excel Energy and the companion Energy Partnership Agreement (EPA). City staff and Excel representatives presented progress on community engagement, negotiations, and key priorities. No votes were taken; the item is scheduled for action at the Governance Committee on June 30, 2026, with a potential ballot referral in November 2026. Discussion Items - City Staff Presentation (Cindy Patton, Johnny Rogers, Shannon, Dominic Moreno): The EPA (formerly the D Dig) focuses on affordability, sustainability, and reliability. Five priority areas were highlighted: shareholder contributions, energy assistance support, pilot programs, substation design, and reporting/transparency. Staff noted that Denver’s electric rates are 37% below the national average, and Excel has approved plans for an 88% carbon emission reduction by 2030. The city emphasized that the franchise agreement itself provides $30 million annually in franchise fees, an estimated $150 million per year in infrastructure relocation benefits, and a 1% fund (about $10 million annually) for undergrounding distribution lines. The EPA will include a public dashboard, a community advisory committee, and regular council briefings. - Excel Presentation (Holly and team): Excel reported extensive community outreach since February 2026, including over 1,500 contacts to 189 RNOs/JIDs/BIDs, 31 in-person presentations, and 47 Red Truck events. Major customer concerns identified: street light outage reporting, planned outage communication, vegetation management, undergrounding interest, and substation landscaping. Excel established a rapid response team four months ago to address these issues and is simplifying the street light reporting process. Excel also noted that the franchise agreement provides operational certainty and coordination benefits for the company. - Councilmember Q&A: - Councilmember Cashman asked about regular check-ins and whether the working group would continue. Staff confirmed regular briefings and a new advisory committee. - Councilmember Alvidres inquired about the shareholder contribution amount. Staff indicated Denver currently receives $250,000 from shareholders, but negotiations aim for a higher amount (potentially $1 million per year) directed toward energy assistance navigators or pilots. Excel requested clarity on the desired use of funds. - Councilmember Hines raised concerns about accountability mechanisms if Excel fails to meet commitments. Staff cited PUC quality-of-service plans, customer bill credits for outages, and potential fines. Excel noted that 2024 outage minutes reached a decade high due to public safety power shutoffs and wildfire mitigation, but corrective actions are underway. - Councilmember Flynn asked about the city’s policy on removing gas lines. Staff explained that avoiding duplicative gas infrastructure is part of the energy transition, but acknowledged cost burdens on households. A memo was requested. - Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez questioned conditional language in the shareholder contribution and alignment on substation beautification. Staff and Excel discussed exploring a minimum budget percentage for community-driven design. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken at this informational meeting. - The city and Excel continue negotiations on the EPA, with a goal to finalize language by late June 2026. - The franchise agreement and EPA will be presented to the Governance Committee on June 30, 2026, for a vote on referral to the November 2026 ballot. - The working group, including Councilmembers Parody and Watson, will provide written recommendations on shareholder contribution use and substation design expectations before June 30. - Councilmembers requested follow-up information on gas line removal policy, low participation rates in energy assistance programs (currently 15–35% of eligible households), and power restoration metrics.

The Denver City Council met on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 3:30 PM, with 11 members present (Councilmembers Parady and Sandoval absent; Councilmember Torres arrived late and was absent for the zoning votes). The meeting included approval of a consent agenda, several individual items, and two required public hearings on zoning changes. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of June 1, 2026. - Approved en bloc the following resolutions and bills: - 26-0709: Fourth amendatory agreement with Denver Rescue Mission to add $602,016 for 20 additional family shelter units at The Crossing (total 30 units), absorbing families from the Salvation Army Lambeth closure. - 26-0710: Amendatory agreement with Work Options for Women ($219,321.47 added) to provide meals to micro-communities. - 26-0506: Janitorial services contract with Roth Property Maintenance ($500,000, through 2029). - 26-0682: Lease amendment with Fax East Colfax Redevelopment ($2,715,937.41 added, 38 units). - 26-0696 through 26-0702: Mayoral appointments to various commissions. - 26-0694: Tobacco Education Prevention and Cessation grant ($910,238). - 26-0695: Amendatory agreement with Advocates for Recovery Colorado (opioid misuse services). - 26-0707: Amendatory agreement with Colorado Health Network (harm reduction). - 26-0705, 26-0711: Street dedication for West 1st Avenue and North Federal Boulevard. - 26-0706: CDOT grant for air pollution mitigation ($1,000,000). - 26-0713, 26-0714, 26-0717: $50 million contracts each with AECOM, AtkinsRealis, and J.A. Watts for project delivery support at Denver International Airport. - 26-0715, 26-0716, 26-0718, 26-0719, 26-0720, 26-0721: Airport lease/use amendments (British Airways, Delta, Prospect International, Southwest Airlines cargo and GUB, Smiths Detection). - 26-0678: IGA with Denver Public Schools for Youth Employment Program ($1.5 million, flat since 2022). - 26-0684: Ordinance requiring businesses to comply with all applicable laws. - 26-0615: Donation of retired police horse “Maverick” to Ride and Shine Equine Assisted Therapy. - 26-0636: Alley vacation at 3800 West Colfax Avenue. - 26-0659: Tax credit IGA amendment for Downtown Denver District Thermal Network study. Public Comments & Testimony - A half-hour general public comment session was held at 5:00 PM; the content consisted of a recorded promotional announcement about Denver parks, events, and the Red Bull Soapbox Race. No individual public testimony was provided. Discussion Items - Council Announcements: Councilmember Alvidrez thanked Parks & Recreation for a healing space at Montbello Recreation Center. Councilmember Lewis thanked participants in the Welshire 100 golf tournament and promoted the High Line Canal Conservancy summer scamper. - Resolution 26-0709 (Denver Rescue Mission): Councilmember Lewis asked whether the 20 added units required construction or were existing space repurposed. The mayor’s office confirmed it was absorbing families from the Salvation Army Lambeth closure into existing space; no additional capacity beyond 30 units. - Settlement Resolutions (26-0815 through 26-0827): Councilmember Lewis noted these 13 items approved $2,865,000 in settlements related to a police civil case (Marquis Dominick, et al. v. City & County of Denver, 22-cv-01343). She stated that the 2026 total for city settlements now stands at $3,867,000, funded by a liability claims pool and a $3 million rescission from the general fund contingency. - Bill 26-0615 (Horse Maverick): Councilmember Flynn praised the animal’s service and noted it has Cushing’s disease; retirement will be at a Wyoming facility. - Bill 26-0678 (Youth Employment): Councilmember Lewis asked about funding trends; Tony Anderson confirmed flat funding at $1.5 million for three years, highest level ever. Councilmember Torres asked about expenditure history; staff promised a breakdown of rollover amounts. - Bill 26-0684 (Business Compliance): Councilmember Lewis clarified that the ordinance is not aimed at any specific business, contrary to a news article, and that she requested a retraction. - Bill 26-0704 (Park Creek Metro District): Councilmember Lewis explained the IGA will support city attorneys in conveying roads from the metro district to the city, addressing long-standing infrastructure issues in Central Park. - Bill 26-0686 (Lobbyist Regulation): Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez moved an amendment adding individuals appointed by the mayor, auditor, or clerk and recorder to the definition of “covered official” and applying post-service lobbying restrictions. The amendment passed 11-0. Councilmember Sawyer commended the sponsors. The bill was ordered published as amended. - Recess and General Public Comment: Council recessed after the block vote; a recorded promotional segment aired during the public comment period. - Public Hearing – Zoning 26-0176 (17600 E 56th Ave & 4991 N Telluride St): A public hearing had been held on April 6, 2026; the item was postponed to this meeting. No further testimony was taken. Council voted 10-0 to approve the rezoning from C-MU-10/C-MU-30 to S-MX-5/S-MX-8. (Torres absent). - Public Hearing – Zoning 26-0557 (8401 E Belleview Ave): Staff presented the rezoning from B-8 with waivers to S-MX-8 (suburban mixed-use, up to 8 stories) to allow a mixed-use development. Eric Hecox (Shea Properties) spoke in favor, noting the site is underutilized and adjacent to the Marina Square redevelopment. Skye Stuart was available for questions. Councilmember Romero Campbell asked about preserving mature trees; the applicant committed to preserving as many as possible. No opposition. Council voted 10-0 to approve. (Torres absent). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: All 24 resolutions and 6 bills on final consideration were approved en bloc unanimously (11-0). The consent agenda included contracts, grants, appointments, and settlements. - Amendment to 26-0686: Adopted 11-0. - 26-0686 (Lobbyist Regulation): Ordered published as amended. - Zoning 26-0176: Passed 10-0 (Councilmembers Parady, Torres, Sandoval absent). - Zoning 26-0557: Passed 10-0 (same absentees). - Total Settlements Approved: $2,865,000 for 13 claims against the Denver Police Department. - Next Steps: The meeting adjourned at 5:56 PM. The next regular Council meeting within the 30-day review period for many items is June 22 or June 29, 2026.

The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee of the Denver City Council met on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 1:30 PM under Chair Shontel Lewis and Vice Chair Chris Hinds. The committee considered an action item to approve a 10-year advertising concession agreement with JCDecaux Airport, Inc. at Denver International Airport, received a briefing on the Front Range Passenger Rail (Colorado Connector) project, and approved three consent agenda items. Consent Calendar - 26-0738: Approved a contract with KEENE CONCRETE, INC. for $3,424,371 to replace deficient sidewalk citywide to ADA standards (term: NTP + 220 days). - 26-0739: Approved a contract with HDR ENGINEERING, INC. for $964,000 through June 1, 2028, to assess the Welton Street Corridor and develop transportation recommendations (Council District 9). - 26-0740: Approved a revocable permit for Clifford Lee Beem and Kristi Conway Beem to encroach 1.1 feet into the right-of-way at 661 N. Williams Street (Council District 5). Discussion Items 26-0755 – JCDecaux Advertising Concession Agreement at Denver International Airport Denver International Airport (DEN) staff presented a proposed 10-year concession agreement with JCDecaux Airport, Inc. (JCDecaux) valued at over $184 million in guaranteed base rent, with a minimum capital investment of $16 million. The agreement would replace existing advertising assets with fewer, modern digital screens to reduce visual clutter and improve passenger wayfinding. The base rent is guaranteed regardless of sales performance; additional percentage rent will be paid at 72.5% of gross sales, dropping to 62.5% after $30 million in gross sales is achieved. The current incumbent, Clear Channel Airports, had a minimum annual guarantee (MAG) of $3.3 million, with actual airport revenue of $16.5 million in 2025. The new contract’s year one MAG is $15 million. Council members raised concerns about the lack of a finalized Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) goal, as the contract only includes language for an “up to 2%” goal pending recertification of firms after the U.S. DOT’s interim final rule. Council President Sandoval expressed strong discomfort, noting the city’s own ordinances could set goals and that the "up to" language allows zero percent. She also questioned the selection process, the international location of JCDecaux (France), and the adequacy of local economic benefit. Councilwoman Alvidrez and Councilman Hines requested additional information on competitor bids and contract details. Committee members also discussed the scoring criteria, with JCDecaux scoring nearly 15 points higher than the incumbent. Council President Sandoval made a motion to postpone the resolution (26-0755) to the next committee meeting on June 17, 2026, to allow time to address concerns about ACDBE goals. The motion was seconded by Vice Chair Hinds and passed unanimously (7-0). The committee will reconsider the item on June 17. 26-0761 – Front Range Passenger Rail (Colorado Connector) General Update Sal Pace, General Manager of the Front Range Passenger Rail District, and Board Chair John Putnam provided a briefing. The district is planning a phased intercity passenger rail service branded “Colorado Connector” (Coco) from Fort Collins to Pueblo. Phase one, funded via a partnership with RTD and the state, will provide three round trips daily from Denver to Fort Collins by January 2029, serving eight stations at 79 mph. A term sheet has been signed with BNSF Railway, a novel arrangement where BNSF will contract Amtrak to operate the service. Phase two would expand to 10 round trips daily between Pueblo and Fort Collins, requiring a new revenue source via a potential ballot measure in 2026. The district is contemplating a sales tax of one-third of a cent within its boundaries (2.5 million residents across 20-25 municipalities). A “local return” program would send nearly 20% of tax revenue back to local communities for station area development, first/last mile connectivity, and infrastructure. For Denver, this could mean hundreds of millions of dollars. The district has engaged over 40,000 residents and is exploring special event stops at the new Broncos Stadium and South Broadway. Council members asked about rail safety, quiet zones, single-track constraints, and lessons learned from RTD’s Fastracks project. The briefing served as an informational update; no action was taken. Key Outcomes - Resolution 26-0755 (JCDecaux contract) was postponed by a unanimous vote (7-0) to June 17, 2026, to address council concerns about ACDBE goals and contract details. - Consent items 26-0738, 26-0739, and 26-0740 were approved without objection. - The Front Range Passenger Rail briefing was concluded with no formal action; further updates are expected.

On June 3, 2026, the Denver City Council's Health and Safety Committee (Vice Chair Kevin Flynn presiding, Chair Darrell Watson absent) heard a briefing from Denver Fire Department Chief Desmond Fulton on audit findings related to the department's Intergovernmental Agreements (IGAs) with Glendale, Englewood, Sheridan, and Skyline. The audit recommended improvements in documentation, cost tracking, and advisory board compliance. Chief Fulton agreed with all recommendations and committed to implementation by July 1, 2026. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were presented. Discussion Items - Chief Fulton presented the financial details of the IGAs: Englewood ($7.3M/year, 3% escalator, through 2035), Glendale ($3M/year, 3% escalator, through 2038), Sheridan ($2.6M/year with tiered escalators, through 2028), and Skyline ($445,000, mills-based, reviewed every three years). He highlighted that these stations also serve Denver—76% of Glendale’s calls and 55% of Sheridan’s calls are within Denver—and provided a cost-benefit analysis showing a net positive revenue for the city after accounting for personnel and equipment costs. - Council members expressed strong support for the value of the IGAs beyond pure financials. Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer noted the critical role of the Glendale station in responding to a large January 2026 fire in District 5, emphasizing that relationships and response times are invaluable. Council President Amanda Sandoval discussed the risk of losing IGAs impacting Denver's ISO 1 accreditation and insurance rates, noting that some audit recommendations may not account for intangible benefits. Councilman Kevin Flynn questioned the cost allocation for calls into Englewood from the Sheridan station and confirmed reopeners exist in the contracts. Chief Fulton reiterated that the audit focused on process, not the strategic value of the IGAs. Key Outcomes - The committee received the briefing as informational; no votes were taken. - Chief Fulton committed to implementing all audit recommendations, including formalizing renewal processes, tracking costs, and establishing joint advisory boards, by July 1, 2026. - Council members acknowledged the importance of maintaining the IGAs and suggested future contract language could reduce administrative burdens while preserving flexibility for dispute resolution.

On Tuesday, June 2, 2026, the Denver City Council's Community Planning and Housing Committee convened at 1:30 PM in Room 391 of the City & County Building. The committee considered two action items: a large-scale map amendment to implement the Southwest Area Plan (26-0741) and a landmark designation for the Federal Garages (26-0742), along with four consent items. The meeting concluded with unanimous approvals on all votes. Consent Calendar - 26-0743: Approved a $4,750,000 loan agreement with Green Valley Vistas Owner, LLC for 19 years to finance 156 income-restricted apartments (30%–80% AMI, 99-year covenant) at 5000 Tower Road (District 11). - 26-0744: Amended a contract with Archdiocesan Housing, Inc. (dba Catholic Charities) to change the final unit mix at 2595 S. Federal Blvd (District 2); no change to capacity or term. - 26-0745: Amended a loan agreement with 18th and Penn Building I, LLC to correct the legal land description at 1799 North Pennsylvania Street (District 10); no change to term or capacity. - 26-0746: Approved a $1,050,000 loan agreement with Kappa Housing, Inc. (60-year covenant) to finance 30 income-restricted senior units (30%–50% AMI) at 9095 East 48th Ave (District 8). All consent resolutions were approved without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - For the Southwest Area Plan rezoning (26-0741): - Written comments were received from the Westwood Community Action Team RO, expressing support with protections for existing residents and businesses. - Nine members of the public submitted comments: four had questions about property inclusion, five opposed. - One resident near the Evans station opposed allowing up to eight stories, citing concerns about apartments, dog owners, and parking. - Two property owners along LaPan Street (business owners) opposed rezoning to Main Street. - One resident in Athmar Park opposed rezoning from mixed-use to solely industrial. - One resident in Mar Lee requested a fenced-off dog park. - For the Federal Garages landmark designation (26-0742): - No written comments were received by CPD. - At the Landmark Preservation Commission hearing, John Deffenbach of Historic Denver spoke in favor. Discussion Items 26-0741 – Southwest Area Plan Map Amendment Libbie Glick (CPD) presented a comprehensive rezoning across Council Districts 2, 3, and 7 (Westwood, Athmar Park, Marley, Ruby Hill, Overland) to implement the adopted Southwest Area Plan (March 2026). Key components: - Centers & Corridors: Rezoning along Federal Boulevard (including removal of billboard overlay UO-2, adding Design Overlay 8 near future BRT stations, heights up to 5 stories south of Mississippi), Mississippi Avenue (adding DO8 for pedestrian-friendly design), Broadway (rezoning to Main Street districts), Morrison Road (rezoning old code properties to EMX-3), and Evans Station area (up to 8 stories for transit-oriented development). - Riverside Communities: Rezoning LaPan Street to Main Street and Row House districts; converting value manufacturing areas to Light Industrial (IA); rezoning Santa Fe corridor to industrial mixed-use 5 stories. - Housing Opportunities: Rezoning 16 single-unit properties owned by Habitat for Humanity and Denver Housing Authority (DHA) to two-unit; four DHA properties to mixed-use/multi-unit. - Institutional Properties: Rezoning Denver Health Westwood Family Health Center to campus health care and Westwood Library/Community Center to multi-unit. Process: The application was complete in March 2026; Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval on May 6, 2026. Over 9,000 postcards were mailed twice to property owners and renters. Staff confirmed the rezoning meets all three review criteria (consistency with adopted plans, public interest, and zone district intent). Council Discussion: - Council President Sandoval (District 1) commended the work and expressed full support. - Councilmember Alvidrez (District 7) highlighted the removal of billboard overlays, the shift to “river side communities” focusing on the river, inclusion of South Broadway, and engagement with the Colorado Asian Pacific United group regarding the Asia Center. She noted potential floor amendments to exclude a few industrial properties with existing residential uses. She also requested DHA representatives attend the final City Council hearing to discuss wraparound services for new dense housing. - Councilmember Sawyer (District 5) asked about non-conforming uses created by rezoning industrial mixed-use to light industrial or row house. Libbie Glick confirmed non-conformities exist but existing uses can continue. Councilmember Sawyer raised concerns about food truck prohibitions under urban context zoning and urged prioritizing text amendments to allow food trucks, citing a specific taco truck that had to move. Elizabeth Weigel (CPD) noted the text amendment is on the work program. - Council President Sandoval also queried the interaction between the Design Overlay 8 and the 20-foot parkway setback on Federal Boulevard (managed by Parks and Recreation), suggesting a need for CPD and Parks to reevaluate outdated setbacks. - Councilmember Alvidrez noted that a previous rezoning in Athmar Park near a park was denied; the new row house designation addresses that concern. 26-0742 – Federal Garages Landmark Designation Becca Dierschow (CPD) presented an owner-supported landmark designation for the two bus garages built in 1925 and 1947 (2100 California St. and 2101 Welton St.), historically known as the Denver-Rio Grande Garages. The property, owned by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), is being sold; the GSA initiated the designation as part of the disposal process. The garages meet three of ten significance criteria: association with development of intercity bus transportation (Denver-Colorado Springs-Pueblo Motorway, carrying over 1,500 people daily at peak), architectural style (Spanish Colonial Revival with tile roof, tower, stucco), and rarity as remaining industrial buildings in a heavily redeveloped area. The period of significance is 1926–1961. Potential adaptive reuse aligns with the Downtown Area Plan’s 5280 Trail and ground-floor activation goals. Council Discussion: - Councilmember Sawyer asked about the “widespread change” notation under setting integrity. Dierschow clarified that while location, design, materials, and workmanship remain intact, the surrounding setting has changed drastically (urban renewal, parking lots), which reinforces the rarity criterion. - Councilmembers noted the parallel to the VA property sale in District 5; the GSA representative was available but no additional questions were asked. Key Outcomes - 26-0741: Motion by Vice Chair Sawyer, seconded by Councilmember Alvidrez, to approve the rezoning for filing. Approved 5–0 (Aye: Alvidrez, Lewis, Romero Campbell, Sandoval, Sawyer; Nay: 0; Absent: Torres, Parady). A floor amendment may be offered to remove a few industrial properties with existing residential uses before City Council consideration in mid-July. - 26-0742: Motion by Councilmember Alvidrez, seconded by Councilmember Lewis, to approve the landmark designation for filing. Approved 5–0 (same vote tally). The designation will go to full City Council for final deliberation. - All four consent items were approved by consent without discussion. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 2:45 PM.

This was a regular weekly joint meeting of Mayor Mike Johnston and the Denver City Council. The meeting opened with announcements from council members regarding upcoming community events and recognitions. There was no general session; the council promptly moved into an executive session to discuss legal matters. Announcements - Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell (District 4) announced the Welshire 100 celebration on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Welshire Golf Course. The event celebrates the 100th anniversary of the public golf course designed by Donald Ross, the only such course west of the Mississippi. Activities include a golf tournament in the morning and a community celebration from 5 to 8 p.m. - Councilman Darren Watson (District 9) proclaimed June as Pride Month and encouraged participation in Pride events, including a walk with his team. He also announced the Juneteenth parade on June 20, 2026, starting at Manual High School. - The Council President expressed gratitude for the support shown for Councilman Parody, who made a significant announcement the prior evening. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously voted to move into an executive session under DRMC 234A, sections 3, 6, and 7 to receive legal advice regarding potential settlement of pending litigation against the city. The motion passed with all in favor, no opposed. Note: No public comments were heard, and no other discussion or votes took place during the open session.

The Denver City Council held its regular session on June 1, 2026, at 10:30 AM (UTC). The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, a land acknowledgment, and roll call (13 members present). The council approved the minutes of May 18, 2026, with a correction regarding a communication about on-call contract spending reports. Key announcements included Councilmember Parady’s resignation effective August 5, 2026, due to health reasons, and her removal as committee chair. The meeting featured a proclamation for Gun Violence Awareness Month, a block vote on numerous resolutions and bills, separate votes on several called-out items, and three public hearings on land use and redevelopment projects. Consent Calendar - The minutes of May 18, 2026, were approved with a correction (adding departments that reported on on-call contract spending). - Council Communication 26-0768 (Treasury Tax Rule 007 update) was filed. - Proclamation 26-0766 (Gun Violence Awareness Month) was adopted unanimously (13-0). - Proclamation 26-0767 (Honoring Raabe Family Dentistry) was adopted (9-0, four absent). - The block vote adopted 30+ resolutions and placed three bills on final passage, all with 13-0 votes. Items included funding for affordable housing at 817 W. 8th Ave., a grant for first-generation homebuyer assistance, contracts for airport design and engineering services, liability claim settlements totaling $217,500, and various intergovernmental agreements. Public Comments & Testimony - Landmark Designation (CB 26-0602): Five speakers (Charles Foster, Jesse Parris, Ron Sladek, John Deffenbaugh, Terri Gentry) spoke in favor of designating 3535 E. 26th Ave. Parkway as a historic structure. No opposition. - Rezoning (CB 26-0521): One speaker (Jesse Parris) spoke in favor of rezoning 361-363 W. Evans Ave. No opposition. - Rossonian Project TIF (CB 26-0634): Six speakers (Paul Books, Joel Noble, Jesse Parris, Robert Price, Norman Harris, John Deffenbaugh) spoke in favor of amending the Welton Corridor Urban Redevelopment Plan to add the Rossonian project and create tax increment financing districts. No opposition. Discussion Items - Councilmember Parady’s Resignation: Councilmember Parady announced she will resign effective August 5, 2026, to allow a special election in November. She cited chronic health challenges. Council President Sandoval expressed support and announced committee chair changes (Parady removed as Community Planning & Housing chair; Councilmember Flynn named Vice Chair of South Platte River Committee). - Gun Violence Awareness Month Proclamation: Councilmembers Watson, Hinds, Gilmore, Romero Campbell, Parady, Kashmann, Alvidrez, and Sandoval shared remarks emphasizing the need for public health approaches, youth programming, and sustained funding to address gun violence. A representative from the Department of Public Health and Community Engagement also spoke. - Called-Out Items: - Resolution 26-0622 (HUD grant for energy efficiency): Councilmember Alvidrez asked about the grant’s scope; staff clarified it targets existing multifamily affordable housing. - Resolution 26-0673 (HDR Engineering contract): Adopted 12-0 (Romero Campbell abstained due to family ties). - Resolution 26-0120 (Purchase of 251 E. 12th Ave.): Councilmember Alvidrez voiced concerns about future affordability; staff noted plans for affordable housing at 60% AMI with deep affordability components. Adopted 12-1 (Alvidrez nay). - Resolution 26-0614 (Denver Health IGA for HIV/AIDS services): Councilmember Watson called for a no vote because the item was incorrectly filed as a resolution; it failed 0-13. - Council Bill 26-0684 (Business compliance ordinance): Councilmember Lewis introduced it, stating it affirms obligations to follow laws. No vote taken (part of block). - Council Bill 26-0686 (Lobbyist regulation): Postponed one week to June 8, 2026, by Councilmember Lewis for further work. - Council Bill 26-0328 (Criminal penalties update): Postponed to June 22, 2026, by Councilmember Alvidrez for additional stakeholder input. - Liability Claim Settlements (Resolutions 26-0723, 0724, 0725): Councilmember Lewis noted the combined $217,500 in settlements (Denver Police Department cases) and urged fiscal awareness. - Public Hearings (final passage): - CB 26-0602 (Landmark – Harris-Cousins House): Staff report highlighted four of ten criteria met. Councilmembers Watson and Kashmann spoke in support. Adopted 10-0. - CB 26-0521 (Rezoning Overland): Staff confirmed consistency with adopted plans. Councilmember Alvidres supported as transit-oriented. Adopted 9-0. - CB 26-0634 (Rossonian TIF): Staff and developer detailed a $15.5 million TIF to rehabilitate the historic hotel, add an eight-story tower, and include community governance (advisory board, local hiring, cultural programming). Councilmembers Watson, Hinds, and Sandoval spoke in favor. Adopted 10-0. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved with correction. - Proclamations Adopted: Gun Violence Awareness Month (13-0) and Raabe Family Dentistry (9-0). - Called-Out Resolutions: - 26-0673 (HDR Engineering) adopted 12-0. - 26-0120 (Property purchase) adopted 12-1. - 26-0614 (Denver Health IGA) failed 0-13. - 26-0682 (Lease amendment) postponed to June 8. - Called-Out Bills: - 26-0686 (Lobbyist regulation) postponed to June 8. - 26-0328 (Criminal penalties) postponed to June 22. - Block Vote: All remaining resolutions adopted and three bills placed on final passage (all 13-0). - Public Hearings: - CB 26-0602 (Landmark designation) adopted 10-0. - CB 26-0521 (Rezoning Overland) adopted 9-0. - CB 26-0634 (Rossonian TIF) adopted 10-0. - Future Hearings Scheduled: June 29, 2026, for CB 26-0619 (DIA rezoning) and CB 26-0654 (Harvey Park South rezoning); protest deadline June 22. - Councilmember Parady’s Resignation: Effective August 5, 2026; special election in November 2026. Committee chair changes effective immediately.

The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee of Denver City Council met on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at approximately 2:00 PM. The meeting included an action item to approve a security contract for Denver International Airport (DEN) and a briefing from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) on its 2026 work plan. The committee also received updates on a recent perimeter security breach at DEN and other airport matters. Action Item: Contract with ACTS Airport Services - The committee considered a five-year contract (three base years with two one-year options) with ACTS Airport Services for comprehensive security services at DEN's curbside, public areas, parking facilities, and other locations. The total contract value is $79,553,656. - The contract covers security guard services, terminal traffic management, access control, patrols, incident resolution, and enforcement of trespassing rules. It aligns with DEN's Vision 100 pillar of maintaining existing assets. - The MWBE goal is 5%, with current contractor averaging over 6% through subcontractor Advanced Professional Security (APS). The DSBO approved the plan on December 17, 2025. - The selection process involved a competitive RFP with eight bidders; ACTS was ranked first by the panel. - Council members asked about coordination with Denver Police, communication protocols, training requirements, and accountability for third-party security personnel. Councilmember Parsons raised concerns about name badge visibility and past incidents with private security. The airport team committed to follow up on contract language regarding identification. - The committee voted to move the contract forward to the full City Council. Councilmember Hines moved, Councilmember Alvidres seconded, with no dissension. Briefing: DOTI 2026 Work Plan - Director Amy Ford and her team presented the department's goals for 2026, focusing on maintenance, project delivery, climate goals, and safety. Key areas included: - Capital Program: Over $200 million invested in preservation, safety, and modernization, with $126 million for transportation and mobility (including $33 million for the new sidewalk fund). - Fleet Management: 2,500 pieces of equipment; more than half are beyond or nearing useful life. Fleet availability is at 86% (goal 87%). The department is reclaiming underutilized vehicles and testing new electric vehicles. - Paving: Using Pavement Condition Index (PCI) to prioritize preservation; goal PCI of 73. - Sidewalk Program: Over 30 miles of poor-condition sidewalks repaired; 10 miles of bond-related sidewalks completed. In 2026, focus on implementation plan and Clayton neighborhood work. - Colfax BRT: On schedule and under budget; substantial completion Q4 2027. Early opening of exclusive lane from Broadway to Colorado in September 2026. Anticipated ridership increase of 10,000 daily trips. - Solid Waste: 99.8% route completion; 28% diversion rate (2025); contamination rate for compost at 1%. Volume-based trash pricing serving 180,000 customers. Contract with Denver Public Schools ends June 2026. - Denver Connector Microtransit: Three zones (Montbello, GES, West Denver) averaging 6 passengers per hour; wait times under 30 minutes for majority; 4.8-4.9 out of 5 stars. - Safety/Vision Zero: Pedestrian fatalities down 50% year-to-date, but vehicle fatalities up. Goal of 18 miles of slow/safe streets in 2026. Speed safety program ordinance coming in July for automated cameras on Colorado, Federal, and Alameda. - Right-of-Way Services: Hired 12 new enforcement agents (94% strength); launching online parking citation dispute portal in late summer. Consolidated permitting team and Prop 123 affordable housing fast track process. - Councilmembers raised concerns about project communication and responsiveness. Council President Flynn expressed frustration with lack of responses to constituent inquiries, particularly regarding speed limit changes and legacy projects. DOTI acknowledged the issue and committed to improving closure of communication loops. Airport Updates (Director Phil Washington) - Perimeter Security Breach: On May 11, 2026, a breach occurred related to Frontier Flight 4345. DEN has initiated a perimeter physical security assessment, including law enforcement, security consultants, and peer review from other large airports. A full update will be provided to the committee on July 1, 2026. - Community Advisory Committee: Four new members added to the airport's ad hoc volunteer committee. - DEN Reserve Program: Being sunset due to success of new East and West Security checkpoints, resulting in cost savings. - Southwest Airlines: Celebrated 20 years at DEN; event at National Western Center on June 25. - RTD A-Line: 10-year anniversary; nearly 60 million riders since April 2016. The Eagle P3 project opened $300 million under budget, funding rail in Aurora. - Councilmember Gilmore requested information on the energy RFI (31 proposals received) and asked for details on the community advisory committee. Key Outcomes - The contract with ACTS Airport Services was approved by the committee and will be forwarded to the full City Council for final approval. - DOTI's 2026 work plan was presented and discussed; no formal vote was taken. - Director Washington committed to providing a detailed perimeter security update on July 1, 2026. - DOTI acknowledged communication shortcomings and pledged to improve responsiveness to council and constituent inquiries.

The Health and Safety Committee, chaired by Councilmember Darrell Watson, met on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, to receive two briefings: the 2026 work plan from Denver Human Services (DHS) and a collaborative presentation from the Mayor's Office of Social Equity and Innovation (OSEI) and the Office of Children's Affairs (OCA) on youth and community safety. The meeting also included the adoption of a consent calendar with three routine items. Consent Calendar - The committee approved the consent calendar, which contained three items that were not pulled for discussion. Discussion Items Denver Human Services 2026 Work Plan DHS Executive Director Anne Marie Braga, Chief Program Officer Mimi Sherman, and Chief Administrative Officer Clint Woodrow (absent) presented the agency's three-year strategic roadmap. Key points included: - Goal 1 – Amplifying Reach: Target: reduce payment error rates for benefits to 6% (currently 6.06% as of December 2025). Efforts include expanding access to services via outreach case coordinators in schools and libraries, and measuring customer well-being outcomes. - Goal 2 – Uplifting the Team: Focus on increasing trust in agency leadership from 53% to 56% (a 3% increase) by improving visibility, communication, and wellness supports. A new wellness policy will allow employees up to four hours per month for wellness activities. - Goal 3 – Innovative Approaches: Target: increase the percentage of customers who feel easily connected to services. Strategies include breaking down silos, centering customer voice (800 surveys collected so far), and using data dialogues. - HR1 Impacts: SNAP work requirements (community engagement activities) are already in effect for able-bodied adults aged 18–64 without dependents under 14. Medicaid work requirements begin January 2027. DHS is partnering with food banks and volunteer portals to help residents meet requirements. - Legislative Update: A new state bill (county administration of public assistance programs) creates county cohorts and shared services (e.g., call centers) but centralizes fraud investigation. DHS will seek a seat on the implementation committee. Councilmembers asked about exemptions from work requirements (Mimi Sherman confirmed exemptions remain unchanged), the impact of budget cuts on caseworkers (no caseworkers were laid off; cuts hit support roles), and ADA accessibility at the DHS building (planned renovation will move public entrance to first floor). Councilmember Amanda Sandoval emphasized the need for the city budget to support human services given federal and state funding reductions. OSEI and OCA Briefing on Youth and Community Safety Dr. Ben Sanders (Chief Equity Officer, OSEI) and Jess Ridgway (Executive Director, OCA) presented their shared theory of change: ensuring youth thrive to create safer communities. Key examples of collaboration: - Mayor's Youth Commission: Equity mapping led to three times as many applicants this year. Selection process underway to make the commission more representative. - Youth Violence Prevention Middle School Pilot: Launched this year, focusing on root causes of violence. Measures of success include improved on-time school attendance and connections to trusted adults. - Community Safety Grants Program: Funded by a $3 million city council budget amendment (repurposed Bronco Fund). Prioritizes human-centered supports: workforce development, mentorship, mental health, and wraparound services. Guided by community input emphasizing one-to-one adult relationships for youth. OSEI also highlighted its Office of Neighborhood Safety programs (e.g., HYPE youth leadership, urban farm food truck) and racial equity action plans (REAPs) across city agencies. Councilmembers asked about: - Definition of public safety (Councilmember Paul Cashman called for budget alignment with values). - Partnering intentionally with communities (Dr. Sanders affirmed it as both a current commitment and area for growth; Councilmember Diana Romero Campbell requested a list of OCA's 63 contracts and more details on evidence-based practices). - Expanding youth violence prevention to younger ages (Councilmember Amanda Sandoval suggested starting with 4th/5th graders given Colorado's age of prosecution at 10). - Child Friendly Cities Initiative alignment with budget (Councilmember Amanda Sawyer noted the initiative calls for child-responsive budgets). - Councilmember Sarah Parady requested a list of all organizations receiving youth violence prevention funding this year vs. previous years. Preston Adams (Youth Violence Prevention Administrator) reported four organizations received $90,000 each (S.O.A.R., Royal Mentoring Group, Colorado Lifted, Servicios de la Raza) from 18–19 applicants. Key Outcomes - Committee members expressed strong support for the collaborative work but stressed that current funding levels are insufficient to meet community needs. Multiple councilmembers (Cashman, Gonzalez-Gutierrez, Parady) called on the administration to meaningfully reflect youth and safety investments in the upcoming city budget. - DHS will provide handouts (leadership trust survey results, customer experience data) to councilmembers. - OSEI/OCA will provide a follow-up list of funded organizations and applicant data for youth violence prevention grants, and continue working on Mayor's Youth Commission expansion and community safety grants RFP. - No formal votes were taken on the briefings; they were informational.