Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

The meeting convened briefly on the morning of Tuesday, October 13, 2026, following the observance of Indigenous Peoples Day. Council members shared announcements about upcoming community events and recognitions, after which the body unanimously voted to move into an executive session to discuss pending litigation and related legal advice. Announcements - Councilwoman Alvidres announced a Halloween parade on Saturday, October 17th on South Broadway, noting she would walk with firefighters. - Council President Diana Romero Campbell announced a Fall Fest on Saturday, October 24th at Thomas Jefferson High School, rescheduled from rained-out summer concerts, featuring food, music, and city agency booths. - Councilman Gaza Oscateurs reported the first meeting of a new data center working group on the previous Friday, expressing optimism about its representation and future work. - Councilman Chris Hines announced that later that day the council would present multiple proclamations, including one commemorating Matthew Shepard, noting the tragedy and its role in galvanizing local activism credited with helping turn Colorado blue. - Mayor and council members highlighted that Monday, October 12, was the city’s first official Indigenous Peoples Day holiday, with a march in City Park. The mayor thanked council for establishing the holiday and praised the event as a powerful start to a new tradition. Key Outcomes - Council unanimously approved a motion to adjourn into executive session pursuant to DRMC 234A, sections 3, 6, and 7 to discuss settlement of pending litigation and legal advice. No further public business was conducted.

On Tuesday, October 13, 2026, the Denver City Council held its regular session from 3:30 p.m. to 7:31 p.m. The meeting included opening proclamations, a recess for general public comment, reconvening at 5:30 p.m., debate on called-out contracts, a 10-airline use-and-lease block, a large consent block, a required public hearing on a Barnum/Barnum West rezoning, and two later proclamations. Twelve members were present at roll call; Councilmember Gilmore was absent for votes after the airline block. Consent Calendar - Minutes of Monday, October 5, 2026 (26-1494) were approved without objection. - Approved en bloc, 11-0 with Gilmore absent: 26-1403 (Loretto Heights Affordable Home Ownership Program grant, $1,722,590, for 28 middle-income row homes), 26-1404 (The Delores Project rapid rehousing, adding $850,000), 26-1407 (Rising Medical Solutions workers' compensation bill review, adding $300,000), 26-1408 (Westwood Community Center lease at $10 per year), 26-1409 (A Hole In The Wall Construction emergency fencing and board-up, adding six months), 26-1411 and 26-1412 (Denver Commission for People with Disabilities appointments), 26-1413 through 26-1416 (Denver Nonprofit Engagement Commission appointments), 26-1395 (38th and Monaco safety design, $754,757), 26-1396 (Tower Road Sanitary Interceptor Phase 1, $8,178,294), 26-1397 (two alley parcels dedicated as public right-of-way), 26-1398 (TK Elevator, adding $8,000,000 for DEN conveyance modernization), 26-1399 (SkyWest ground service equipment lease), and 26-1400 (SHI International, adding $1,000,000 for Microsoft Enterprise licenses). - Also placed on final consideration and passed en bloc, 11-0 with Gilmore absent: 26-1335 (DDDA funding agreement for Midland Condominiums Unit 100), 26-1380 (University of Colorado early-childhood nutrition and food access grant, $749,694.78), and 26-1370 (revoking Triangle at Union Station Development LLC's revocable permit). Public Comments & Testimony - Required public hearing on Council Bill 26-1252 began at 7:12 p.m., with Council sitting as a Committee of the Whole. Staff report was delivered by Libby Glick of Community Planning and Development. Renee Martinez-Stone and Yvette Seerden, both representing the Denver Housing Authority, spoke in favor; no one spoke in opposition. - Martinez-Stone cited West Denver displacement and affordability pressures, including that between 2020 and 2024 the chance for a renter in West Denver to become a homeowner fell from about 1 in 10 to 1 in 20. Seerden described the pilot project: 10 permanently affordable tandem-home homeownership opportunities on scattered DHA land, with anticipated sale prices of $250,000 to $280,000, targeted to households below 100% of area median income, and a 99-year ground lease to preserve affordability. Discussion Items 26-1402 - The Salvation Army rapid resolution services - The resolution would add $100,000 to The Salvation Army contract, bringing the total to $3,336,638, for rapid resolution services for families experiencing housing instability and homelessness. Councilmember Lewis voted no because she does not support the city partnering with The Salvation Army; Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez also voted no. The resolution was adopted 10-2. 26-1373 - Citibot AI Chatbot contract - The resolution would add $3,889,784.94 to the Citibot contract for Denvergov.org AI chatbot services, for a new total of $4,339,784.94, and add five years through October 1, 2031. It failed 3-9, with only Flynn, Hinds, and Watson voting yes. - Councilmember Sawyer opposed the spending while 311 staffing remains depleted and said the Sunny chatbot gave inaccurate information. Councilmember Lewis opposed automation of constituent services, saying efficiency should not replace human trust. Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez said there was no identified budget for a voice assistant and no evidence of effectiveness. Councilmember Kashmann called AI a nightmare and said the city lacks an AI policy. Councilmember Hinds said self-service is useful but objected that the contract had already lapsed. Councilmember Sandoval objected that the prior three-year contract had expired 12 days earlier and that the new money had not been through a competitive RFP. Technology Services staff said 40% of 311 inquiries now come through digital channels and that the contract includes future-proofing for a voice assistant, including a free pilot. 26-1372 - Slalom professional services - The resolution would add $5,000,000 to the Slalom contract for business intelligence and ICT on-call services, for a new total of $18,000,000, and add three years through December 31, 2029. It failed 2-10, with only Flynn and Watson voting yes. - Councilmember Lewis opposed paying up to $380 per hour to a multinational firm while city staffing is diminished, citing an August poll in which 70% of Colorado voters were uncomfortable with local government using AI. Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez questioned why Salesforce work cannot be done in-house. Councilmember Sandoval objected to the total contract running nine years and three months through repeated use of Executive Order 8 rather than rebidding. The mayor's office said new resolution-request processes will flag Executive Order 8 extensions more clearly. 26-1348 through 26-1357 - Denver International Airport airline use and lease agreements - These resolutions approved use and lease agreements with Air Canada, Air France, Alaska Airlines, Cayman Airways, Copa Airlines, Icelandair, Key Lime Air dba Denver Air Connection, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and WestJet. Each applies rates and charges for three years with two one-year options to extend. The block was adopted 11-1, with Gilmore dissenting. - Councilmember Gilmore voted no, citing Key Lime Air's role in deportation flights and calling on the council to uphold human rights. Councilmember Flynn argued that rejecting the leases would violate FAA grant assurances, risk federal funding, and not stop ICE flights; he said Denver can only enforce contract provisions if the leases are in place. Councilmember Sawyer voted yes reluctantly, saying a no vote would not stop deportation flights and would harm airport services. Councilmember Lewis voted yes but said ongoing conversations are not the same as enforceable protections, and she demanded a written implementation plan, timeline, and public reporting. Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez said collaboration must continue and include the community. Councilmember Alvidrez asked DIA and the administration to continue reporting and to appear before the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee before the end of 2026. DIA and mayor's office staff committed to continuing those conversations and to engaging on transparency and monitoring measures. Proclamations - 26-1505, Indigenous Peoples' Day, was adopted 12-0. It commemorates the second annual paid city holiday on October 12, 2026, and recognizes tribal nations and the legacy of the Fort Wise Treaty and Sand Creek massacre. Starlene Naranjo, co-chair of the Denver American Indian Commission, accepted the proclamation. - 26-1503, 2026 Veterans Stand Down, was adopted 12-0. It recognizes the October 2, 2026 Stand Down and anticipates serving more than 150 veterans. Frank Cordova of Service Source Colorado accepted the proclamation. - 26-1464, opposing Colorado Proposition 132, was adopted 11-0 with Gilmore absent. The proclamation opposes mandatory minimum fentanyl sentences and supports a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. Councilmembers cited projections of 1,718 additional overdose deaths over five years and a $68.2 million cost over five years. Teresa Cobley, a mother who lost two sons to addiction, and Denver District Attorney John Walsh spoke against Proposition 132. - 26-1504, Matthew Shepard Day, was adopted 11-0 with Gilmore absent. It honors the 28th anniversary of Matthew Shepard's death and proclaims October 12, 2026 as Matthew Shepard Day. Representatives from One Colorado and Lavender Hill accepted the proclamation. Key Outcomes - Failed: 26-1373 (3-9) and 26-1372 (2-10). - Adopted: 26-1402 (10-2); airline block 26-1348 through 26-1357 (11-1, Gilmore dissenting); consent block (11-0, Gilmore absent). - Adopted proclamations: 26-1505 and 26-1503 each 12-0; 26-1464 and 26-1504 each 11-0, Gilmore absent. - Passed Council Bill 26-1252 on final consideration, 11-0 with Gilmore absent, rezoning 76 North Hazel Court, 80-90 North Yates Street, and 4519 West Third Avenue from E-SU-Dx to E-TU-C to allow tandem homes on Denver Housing Authority properties. The homes will be income-restricted to 80% of area median income under the first phase of DHA's single-family plus affordable home ownership pilot. - Ordered published: CB 26-1405 (740 North Washington Street landmark designation), with a required public hearing on October 19, 2026; CB 26-1406 (3343-3351 North Mariposa Street rezoning in Highland), with a required public hearing on November 9, 2026 and protests due by noon on October 26, 2026; and CB 26-1394 (wastewater easement relinquishment at East Elmendorf Drive and North Telluride Street). - Follow-up commitments: DEN and the administration committed to continued consultation with immigrant-rights advocates, transparency improvements, and a report to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee before the end of 2026. Councilmembers said they will keep pressing for concrete, enforceable measures rather than additional meetings alone. - The meeting adjourned at 7:31 p.m.

Note: The agenda and minutes list the meeting starting at 10:30 AM, but the provided timestamp indicates 5:30 PM UTC. This summary uses the timestamp given. The Denver City Council's Health and Safety Committee convened on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, to discuss a proclamation opposing Colorado Proposition 132 (fentanyl penalties) and to consider an ordinance updating the Automated Vehicle Identification System (AVIS) for traffic enforcement. The committee also approved two consent items supporting the Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) program. Consent Calendar - 26-1431: Approved a contract with Denver Health & Hospital Authority for $2,837,767.92 to provide EMTs/paramedics and vans for the STAR program through 12/31/2027 (citywide). - 26-1432: Approved a grant agreement with Caring for Denver Foundation for $2,734,639.00 to accept the Care Over Incarceration Grant and continue the STAR program through 7/31/2027 (citywide). Public Comments & Testimony - Jill Locantori (Denver Streets Partnership): Expressed strong support for expanded automated enforcement, urged Council to direct revenues from AVIS fines into the Transportation and Mobility Special Revenue Fund for multimodal and safe street improvements. - Alejandra Castañeda (community advocate): Supported automated enforcement as a less biased strategy, emphasized the need to educate the public on the difference between AVIS and license plate readers, and requested that fines be used to redesign dangerous corridors, especially in historically disadvantaged neighborhoods. Discussion Items Proclamation Opposing Colorado Proposition 132 (26-1464) - Sponsors Councilmembers Sandoval and Gonzales-Gutierrez introduced the proclamation, arguing that Proposition 132 would impose mandatory minimum sentences, reduce judicial discretion, and fail to provide a balanced, data-informed approach to the fentanyl crisis. - Councilmember Torres voiced full support, calling it an unfunded mandate that would strain the sheriff’s department (currently at 65% workforce capacity) and criminalize vulnerable populations without reducing usage. - Council President Romero Campbell and Councilmember Kashmann echoed support, stating the proposition would harm communities and that resources should go to education, prevention, and treatment rather than harsh sentencing. - Chair Watson shared an example of open drug use and overdoses in his district, emphasizing that Prop 132 would not target dealers and would be an unfunded mandate for the city. - No vote was taken on the proclamation; under council rules, it will be read at the full council meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Automated Vehicle Identification System (AVIS) Ordinance (26-1435) - Angela Casias (Dept. of Safety) and other staff presented the ordinance, which aligns Denver’s code with state law (SB 152) to expand use of speed and red-light cameras, including fixed and mobile cameras in 48 enforcement corridors. Key features: civil fines (not reported to DMV), 45-day appeal process, vendor payment based on equipment (no revenue sharing), and no license plate reader data collection. - Councilmember Torres expressed strong support from her district, noting high-speed corridors like Federal and Colfax; she asked about camera placement and highlighted the need for state coordination. - Councilmember Flynn requested detailed criteria for corridor selection and asked about estimated camera count (about 80) and cost. - Councilmember Kashmann inquired about the fine structure for low-level speeding (1-5 mph, 6-9 mph) and whether warnings or fines would be issued. Police Chief Thomas indicated a preference for warnings initially. - Pro Tem Gonzales-Gutierrez asked for a side-by-side comparison of state vs. city fines, data retention policies (state law requires 3 years from final disposition), and whether data could be used for other purposes. City Attorney clarified that data is confidential and used only for violation processing, limited law enforcement investigations, or court orders. - Councilmember Lewis recommended that no financial penalty be imposed for second/subsequent low-level violations (6-9 mph) except in school/work zones, and urged routing AVIS revenue to the Transportation and Mobility Special Revenue Fund. - Council President Romero Campbell and Councilmember Sandoval expressed enthusiasm for the program as a tool to reduce speeding and free up officers, but asked about revenue allocation and data retention. - Several council members noted that many questions remained unanswered, leading to a motion to postpone. Key Outcomes - Consent items (26-1431, 26-1432) were approved unanimously. - AVIS Ordinance (26-1435): A motion by Councilmember Flynn, seconded by Pro Tem Gonzales-Gutierrez, to postpone the ordinance to a date certain (next committee meeting, October 13, 2026) passed 7-0. The postponement was requested to allow additional time for council members to receive responses to pending questions. - Proposition 132 Proclamation: No committee vote; the proclamation will be presented to the full council on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, the Denver City Council Parks, Art and Culture Committee met at 10:30 AM in Room 391 of the City and County Building. Chair Shontel Lewis presided with Vice Chair Paul Kashmann and members Flor Alvidrez, Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, Chris Hinds, Diana Romero Campbell, and Amanda Sawyer present. The committee considered three action items: a $3,005,589.87 contract for library and cultural plaza design services, amendments to the city’s tree preservation code (Chapter 57), and a package of 15 on-call parks maintenance and construction contracts with a combined potential value of up to $287.5 million. Public Comments & Testimony No public testimony was offered on any of the agenda items, though the agenda had scheduled 15 minutes for item 26-1451. Discussion Items 26-1452 – Architectural and Engineering Design Services for Library Renovations and Cultural Plaza Mandy Vink and Patrick Riley (Denver Bond Office) presented a contract with Handprint Architecture Inc. for $3,005,589.87 to design renovations to the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library & Museum, Montebello Branch Library, and the Montbello Civic Center Park Cultural Plaza and Shade Structure. The projects are part of the 58 Vibrant Bond projects with a combined construction value of $25 million. The design scope includes HVAC, climate controls, roof and window inspections, space reconfiguration, and community-driven shade structure design. The contract has a 21% MWBE goal. Councilmember Watson asked about incorporating prior community engagement (over a year at Blair Caldwell) and avoiding engagement fatigue. Councilmember Kashmann inquired about library closure during construction; staff estimated Q2 2028 to Q4 2029 for construction, with bookmobile services and relocation to rec centers available. Councilmember Sawyer raised concerns about not overlapping library closures in Southeast Denver. The committee approved the contract 7-0 after a motion by Alvidrez and second by Sawyer. 26-1451 – Amendments to Tree Preservation Code (Chapter 57) Elizabeth Judd and Luke Killoran (Office of the City Forester) presented eight proposed changes to strengthen tree preservation and protection, stemming from the 2024 Urban Forest Strategic Plan. Key changes include expanding definition of "city tree," clarifying street tree planting requirements on private streets, enabling authority to require consulting arborists for certain development projects, creating a "Legacy Tree" program for private property listing, updating appeals processes, and establishing a payment-in-lieu fee of $1,600 per tree for infeasible planting. Councilmember Alvidrez raised equity concerns about cost impacts on low-income communities and the inclusion of invasive species like Tree of Heaven. Councilmember Kashmann questioned resident cost for dead tree removal and the value of the Legacy Tree program. Councilmember Hinds noted conflicts between forestry and DOTI over sidewalk repairs and tree root protection. Councilmember Romero Campbell asked about fee implementation and impacts on housing choices. Multiple members expressed concerns about costs to homeowners. Following discussion, Councilmember Alvidrez moved to postpone the bill to the December 2, 2026 meeting, citing a full November 3 agenda; the motion was seconded by Hinds and passed 6-0 (with Sawyer absent). 26-1436 through 26-1450 – Parks On-Call Construction Contracts Kent Sondgerath and Aratiya (Parks and Recreation) presented 15 on-call contracts for citywide parks installation, maintenance, rehabilitation, and restoration services over five years. The contracts are split into a Prime pool (10 firms, $20 million cap each, max $6 million per work order) and an SBE pool (5 firms, $7.5 million cap each, max $1.5 million per work order). Five of the firms are new to Denver Parks work. Possible scopes include concrete trails, playgrounds, irrigation, fencing, and improvements to 58 Vibrant Denver bond projects. Councilmember Kashmann asked about total potential expenditure if all contracts are maxed. A motion by Alvidrez, seconded by Hinds, to approve the 15 resolutions as a block carried 6-0 (Sawyer absent). Key Outcomes - Item 26-1452 (Library Design Contract): Approved by a vote of 7-0. Contract value $3,005,589.87, end date March 15, 2030. - Item 26-1451 (Tree Code Amendments): Postponed to December 2, 2026, by a vote of 6-0 (Sawyer absent). The proposal includes a $1,600 payment-in-lieu fee, Legacy Tree program, and new arborist requirements. - Items 26-1436 through 26-1450 (Parks On-Call Contracts): Approved in a block by a vote of 6-0 (Sawyer absent). Total contract capacity: up to $287.5 million over five years.

The weekly joint meeting of the Mayor and Denver City Council opened with announcements from council members about upcoming community events, followed by a detailed presentation from the Vibrant Denver Bond team on the status of bond-funded projects, housing investments, procurement schedules, and the closing of the Rise and Elevate programs. Council members raised questions about specific projects, timelines, community engagement, and funding processes. The meeting adjourned to a closed session. Announcements - Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutiérrez announced a Fall Fest on October 24 at Thomas Jefferson High School in District 4. - Councilman Watson announced the Nair Northeast Area Plan Advisory Committee meeting on October 7 at the Dahlia Campus for Health and Well-Being. - Councilwoman Channel noted her 24th wedding anniversary. - Councilman Alvidres promoted the Broadway Halloween Parade on October 17 and thanked the Denver Porch Fest team for a successful event in the Baker neighborhood. - Councilman Cashman promoted the annual Trunk or Treat event at Cook Park Recreation Center on October 23. Discussion Items Vibrant Denver Bond Program Update - Kelly Turner, Patrick Riley, and Maggie Thompson presented updates: - All 58 Vibrant projects have advanced; 37 are in design, 4 in construction. - Monthly newsletters continue; Denvergov.org/vibrantbond has had over 17,000 unique visitors in Q3. - Project highlights: - A $50 million water quality improvement project at Sloan’s Lake, funded in part by TIF. - Santa Fe Streetscapes construction underway by Hammond. - Park Hill Park design awarded to world-renowned landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh. - Red Rocks design NTP issued; CMGC proposals due the next day. - Housing investment: The first housing RFP was issued for 251 East 12th (former CDLE building), requiring 70 deed-restricted units at ≤80% AMI, with preference for family-sized units, community-serving space (ideally child care), and no city gap financing. - Procurement status: 7 active procurements; upcoming CMGCs for Betcher Concert Hall, Blair-Caldwell/Montbello Library bundles, and others. Five procurements expected in December. - Funding assignment agreements (FAAs): Agreements completed for DHHA Sam Sandos, West Side Family Health, Zoo, DCPA, Museum of Nature and Science; pending for Denver Art Museum, Botanic Garden, Children’s Advocacy Center, Sun Valley Riverfront Park Phase 2. - Rise/Elevate closeout: 82% of program finished; on track for substantial completion by end of 2027. 466 projects opened to public (422 Elevate, 44 Rise). Recent milestones: Morrison Road groundbreaking, Monaco Parkway bridge complete, Rossville Library ribbon cutting, West Colfax Transit improvements. - Some projects may spill into 2028 (e.g., Steetso Curtis Park pool, DP D District 6 police station, Globeville Library). The team assured no financial impact as bond dollars will be spent on time; CIP dollars will cover remaining costs. - Smith Sandown bridges over Quebec will be added to Elevate scope using reallocated savings. Council Questions and Responses - Councilman Cashman: Asked about Evans Avenue. Patrick Riley responded that a design NTP was signed Monday; Jacobs will lead intersection improvements (signals, medians, crosswalks, green infrastructure) with locations to be determined with Council. - Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutiérrez: Raised concern that citywide sidewalks under Rise for District 5 (Cramer Park) had not been delivered. The team committed to providing an answer. She also asked about the RRFB on Dayton for Emporia Park; it will be designed within Emporia Park improvements but funded under transportation. - Councilman Alvidres: Asked about Decker Library design schedule. Mandy Vink confirmed RFQ is live; community engagement likely in Q1 2027. He also questioned the housing dollar distribution process. Tony Lechuga explained the RFP is broad; preference is for no additional city funds, but the door is open for the best bid. Councilman Alvidres noted lack of a clear process for allocating remaining funds; the administration replied they are searching for opportunities and will bring proposals to Council for votes. - Councilman Watson: Asked about community engagement for bundled Blair-Caldwell and Montbello projects. Mandy Vink stated Blair-Caldwell will have higher engagement (level 3) than Montbello (consult); design scope includes public information components. The team will work to avoid community fatigue. - Councilman Sandoval: Thanked the team and noted that residents often don’t understand bond branding. He requested talking points and fact sheets for council members to use across districts. He also offered to share potential housing sites with the administration. The team indicated they welcome site suggestions. - Councilman Sawyer: Asked about the skate park project; it will go out for design RFP in December. He requested materials to share at the October 24 event; the team offered support. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or motions were recorded during the public portion. - The Vibrant Bond team agreed to provide specific answers on District 5 sidewalks and a full list of projects spilling into 2028. - Council members requested and the team committed to producing fact sheets and talking points for public engagement. - The administration reiterated that housing opportunities will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with preference for non-city-financed projects. - The meeting was adjourned to a closed session (not an executive session), with no motion required.

The Denver City Council met on Monday, October 5, 2026, beginning at 3:30 p.m., with 12 members present. Council President Romero Campbell presided. The meeting included proclamations, a block consent agenda, several individually called-out resolutions, and three required public hearings on amendments restricting spending of voter-approved sales-tax funds. The council recessed and reconvened before adjourning at 6:09 p.m. Attendance and Opening - Twelve members were present: Alvidrez, Flynn, Gilmore, Gonzales-Gutierrez, Hinds, Kashmann, Lewis, Sandoval, Sawyer, Torres, Watson, and Romero Campbell. Gilmore and Sawyer attended virtually; Torres attended the 3:30 p.m. session virtually. - Councilmember Alvidrez led the Pledge of Allegiance and Land Acknowledgement. - The September 28, 2026 minutes (26-1453) were approved. Council Announcements - Councilmember Alvidrez spoke about sexual assault and the Jane Doe incident at Cornell, offering support to survivors. - Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez shared a Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition report: 73% of people detained by ICE last year had children; 18% had U.S. citizen children; 37% had pending immigration applications; three U.S. citizens in Denver were picked up by ICE. - Councilmembers announced community events, the East Colfax ballot box, the Colfax Bus Rapid Transit opening, and an all-day budget workshop set for Thursday. - Councilmember Hinds said the Capitol-to-Anschutz Colfax BRT trip will be 30 minutes faster than driving once fully rolled out. Proclamations - 26-1467 Recognized the El Grito 5K Run/Walk; adopted 12-0. Tina Romero, a race leader, accepted. - 26-1468 Honored fallen Denver Police Officer Merle Nading; adopted 11-0, with Romero Campbell absent. Accepted by Pat Nading Ahmed and Lance Nading. Consent Calendar and Block Vote - Bills for introduction were ordered published: 26-1335 (DDDA funding for Unit 100 of Midland Condominiums), 26-1380 (University of Colorado early-childhood nutrition/food access), and 26-1370 (revoking Triangle at Union Station Development LLC revocable permit). - On a single block vote, the council approved the consent agenda 12-0, including the following resolutions: - 26-1340: $6,314,000 State Proposition 123 AHOP grant for 82 for-sale condominiums at 507 Acoma. - 26-1382: $1,900,000 add to Work Options for Women contract for micro-community meals. - 26-1383: recognize sale and loan assumption at 3755 Tennyson St. and raise subordination limit to $5,500,000. - 26-1384: $3,000,000 loan to Lincoln LLLP for 118 income-restricted units. - 26-1375, 26-1376, 26-1377: translation and interpretation contract extensions with Cal Interpreting, Propio LS, and Cesco Linguistic Services. - 26-1374: $458,123.11 add to Goserco Verint recording and workforce software supporting Denver 911. - 26-1378: $548,378.61 Healthy Food for Denver's Kids grant to Sun Valley Community Center. - 26-1379: $738,087.77 Healthy Food for Denver's Kids grant to Struggle of Love Foundation. - 26-1466: $375,000 liability settlement in Babette Norton v. Denver Police Department. - 26-1368, 26-1369, 26-1371: dedication of City-owned parcels as public rights-of-way, including North Globeville Road, Park Avenue West, and Welton Street/20th Street/Public Alley. - 26-1309: $985,000 Lumin8 traffic signal maintenance contract. - 26-1330: $6,850,000 LOYA Construction roto-mill and asphalt overlay contract. - 26-1381: $1,335,870 purchase order for Central Utility Plant Boiler 6 at Denver International Airport. - The block vote also placed the following bills on final consideration and passed them en bloc: - 26-1333 (Denver Downtown Development Authority boundary amendments), 26-1336 (DDDA funding for University Building at 900-918 16th St.), 26-1305 (voluntary collection and disclosure of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), 26-1332 (vendor name update to Avion Metropolitan District), 26-1325 (vacate a portion of Chopper Circle), and 26-1331 (revoke revocable permit at 2409 Blake St.). Individually Called-Out Resolutions - 26-1373 (Citibot AI Chatbot contract) was postponed one week to October 13, 2026 by Councilmember Alvidrez. - 26-1372 (Slalom business intelligence and ICT services) was postponed one week to October 13, 2026 by Councilmember Lewis. - 26-1303 (Sunny Side Up Solutions employment-brand video contract) was adopted 9-3; Gilmore, Gonzales-Gutierrez, and Lewis voted no. - 26-1385 (Colorado Coalition for the Homeless stability services amendment) was adopted 9-3; Alvidrez, Lewis, and Sawyer voted no. Lewis said she was voting no consistent with past votes about the contractor. - 26-1348 through 26-1357 (airline use and lease agreements at DEN: Air Canada, Air France, Alaska, Cayman, Copa, Icelandair, Denver Air Connection, Lufthansa, Turkish, and WestJet) were postponed to October 13, 2026 in a block by an 11-1 vote; Sawyer voted no. Proponents wanted more time for community organizations to engage with DEN; Sawyer said the airport should not be left waiting and that conversations could continue. DEN Interim CEO Dave Laporte said conversations would continue and two organizations had not yet responded. - 26-1343 (Wheeler Trigg O'Donnell legal services amendment) was adopted 8-4. Gilmore, Alvidrez, Gonzales-Gutierrez, and Lewis voted no. Opponents cited the firm's work for GEO Group immigration detention facilities, $800/hour rates, and process concerns. Supporters noted WTO's pro bono work with the ACLU against ICE and said replacing the firm would cost more. City Attorney Mika Brown said WTO was selected through a panel and is billed at a blended rate. Public Comments and Hearing Testimony - General public comment: The transcript includes a speaker's extended historical account of Ute land displacement, the Ute Removal Act of 1880, and the development of transportation routes through Glenwood Canyon, including I-70. The speaker's name is not identified in the minutes. - Council Bill 26-1362 public hearing: Jesse Parris spoke in favor; no one spoke in opposition. - Council Bill 26-1363 public hearing: Jesse Parris spoke in favor; no one spoke in opposition. - Council Bill 26-1364 public hearing: Angela Casamento (Latinas First Foundation co-chair), Jesse Parris, Terri Jackson (African American Trade Association executive director), and Rebecca Arno (Prosperity Denver Fund CEO) spoke in favor; no one spoke in opposition. Arno said the fund expects to spend $153 million between 2018 and 2030, projected to generate $1.25 billion in increased earnings. Required Public Hearings and Final Passage - Council sat as a Committee of the Whole beginning at 5:36 p.m. for 26-1362, 5:53 p.m. for 26-1363, and 5:56 p.m. for 26-1364. - Councilmembers Sandoval and Torres presented the three related ordinances. Changes include a dedicated 1% city administration and oversight fee; standardized expenditure controls; prohibiting alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and non-program food and beverage purchases; and allowing food and beverage for qualifying events. Caring for Denver's administrative fee was increased from 5% to 7%, and its strategic plan must be informed by public input with measurable goals and performance metrics. The Prosperity Denver name change cleans up the old Denver College Affordability Fund title. - 26-1362 (Caring for Denver tax revenue restrictions) passed 11-0; Gilmore absent. - 26-1363 (Denver Preschool Program tax revenue restrictions) passed 11-0; Gilmore absent. - 26-1364 (College affordability tax revenue restrictions and Prosperity Denver Fund name change) passed 11-0; Gilmore absent. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved. - Proclamation 26-1467 adopted 12-0. - Proclamation 26-1468 adopted 11-0. - Resolution 26-1303 adopted 9-3. - Resolution 26-1385 adopted 9-3. - Resolutions 26-1373 and 26-1372 postponed to October 13. - Resolutions 26-1348 through 26-1357 postponed to October 13. - Resolution 26-1343 adopted 8-4. - Consent agenda adopted 12-0. - Bills 26-1333, 26-1336, 26-1305, 26-1332, 26-1325, and 26-1331 passed en bloc. - Bills 26-1362, 26-1363, and 26-1364 each passed 11-0. - Meeting adjourned at 6:09 p.m. - Note: The minutes state that the 5:56 p.m. Committee of the Whole hearing was to hear speakers on Council Bill 26-1363, but the item and transcript make clear the hearing was for Council Bill 26-1364.

The Community Planning and Housing Committee met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 1:30 PM in Room 391 of the City & County Building. The committee considered three major items: a landmark designation for 740 N. Washington St. (the Stone House), a rezoning for properties at 3343, 3345, and 3351 N. Mariposa St., and a briefing on the city’s cold weather shelter plans for the upcoming season. The committee voted to forward the landmark designation and rezoning to full City Council and received an informational update on shelter operations. Consent Calendar - Item 26-1402: Approved an amendment to a contract with The Salvation Army adding $100,000 for a new total of $3,336,638 to provide rapid resolution services for families experiencing housing instability and homelessness, citywide. - Item 26-1403: Approved a contract with the State of Colorado, Department of Local Affairs for $1,722,590 for construction of 28 middle-income row homes at Loretto Heights in Council District 2. - Item 26-1404: Approved an amendment to a contract with The Delores Project adding $850,000 and extending the term by 12 months (new total $3,503,278, end date 12-31-2028) to provide rapid rehousing services for 30 families experiencing literal homelessness, citywide. Public Comments & Testimony - No public testimony was heard during the committee meeting. For the landmark designation, staff reported one letter of support from Historic Denver and two speakers in favor at the Landmark Preservation Commission. For the rezoning, 10 public comments and one letter of support were submitted during the application process, including a letter from the registered neighborhood organization (RNO) Honey (Highland United Neighbors). Discussion Items Landmark Designation – 740 N. Washington St. (The Stonehouse) - Presentation: Becca Dierschow, Senior City Planner, presented the application for owner-supported landmark designation of the Stone House, built in 1891. The property meets three of ten significance criteria: association with historic development patterns, maintaining visible characteristics of an architectural style (Queen Anne with Romanesque and Shingle style accents), and being a significant example of the work of architects Varian and Sterner. The period of significance spans 1891 to 2005 to capture the building’s conversion from single-family to apartments/office and back to single-family. - Owner Testimony: Joe Mastercoy, co-owner, explained their motivation to codify the home’s history, including its connection to General H.C. Merriam (first Union general to lead an all-African American battalion). He noted the designation ensures the story becomes public record. - Committee Questions: Councilmember Alvidrez asked about current use and motivations. Councilmember Torres clarified that the property is already in the East 7th Avenue Historic District, so design standards are similar. Councilmember Sandoval highlighted the importance of preserving stories associated with people of color. - Motion: Councilmember Sawyer moved to forward the designation to full council, seconded by Councilmember Alvidrez. Passed unanimously. Rezoning – 3343, 3345, 3351 N. Mariposa St. - Presentation: Will Prince, Senior City Planner, described the request to rezone three parcels (total 9,000 sq ft) from C-MX-5 and U-TU-B2, DO-4 to U-RX-3 to enable development of new housing as a transition between commercial and residential areas. The site is in the Highland neighborhood (Council District 1). The application aligns with the Comp Plan, Blueprint Denver, and the Near Northwest Area Plan. The zoning change is designed to support missing middle housing and affordability. - Applicant Testimony: Rob Weathers, owner of the parcels, confirmed they are being assembled. The southern parcel has a 115-unit apartment building under construction. The rezoning will allow a transition to duplex/single-family scale to the north. Community engagement included multiple meetings with the RNO Honey, distribution of 300+ flyers, and a public event. - Committee Questions: Councilmember Sawyer asked about parcel assembly and street designations. Councilmember Torres asked about the existing house (currently vacant, used as staging for the adjacent development). Councilmember Sandoval noted the rezoning supports the neighborhood plan and addresses gentrification concerns. - Motion: Councilmember Alvidrez moved to forward the rezoning to full council, seconded by Councilmember Torres. Passed unanimously. Cold Weather Shelter Briefing - Presentation: Cole Chandler (Executive Director, HOST) and Jeff Kasipsky (Deputy Director) provided an update on two topics: 1. Family Emergency Shelter at 4280 N. Columbine St. (Council District 9): A former CoreCivic site purchased in early 2025, to accommodate up to 20 families (60 individuals). It will serve as an entry point for families, with a target length of stay under 30 days. Capital improvements funded by a $1 million allocation approved in June 2026. Community engagement began in August, with a meeting on September 15. A service contract will come to committee this fall. 2. Cold Weather Shelter Season (2026-2027): Planning for up to 80 activation nights (worst-case). Capacity targets: 600 single adults in 24/7 sites and 200 families via hotel vouchers. Key data from past seasons: 70 nights activated in 2024-25, under 40 nights in 2025-26 (milder winter). Average nightly adult usage dropped from 420 to 320. Family usage from 200 to 100. - Site Locations: Primary adult sites: 2601 W. 7th Ave. (Council District 3), 375 S. Zuni St. (Council District 7), and a proposed structure at 40th & Monroe (former tiny home village, Council District 9). A community meeting for the Monroe site is scheduled for October 8 at 5:30 PM. Family sites include the new Columbine shelter and contracted motels. - Committee Questions and Concerns: - Councilmember Watson thanked staff for collaboration on the Columbine site and noted ongoing discussions about the Monroe site. - Councilmember Torres raised issues about encampments forming near shelters during activation. Jeff Kasipsky explained outreach efforts and that people are rarely asked to leave (only for violence). Torres emphasized the need for good neighbor practices and requested better coordination with schools for the Zuni site. - Councilmember Romero Campbell asked about bathroom facilities (shared, central), outdoor space, parking (street parking only), and coordination with Denver Public Schools for transporting children. Staff confirmed they are working with DPS on McKinney-Vento transport and will follow up on outdoor improvements. - Councilmember Alvidrez asked about procedures when shelters are not activated, data on why people remain unsheltered, and safety protocols for non-binary and transgender clients. Staff noted they collect case notes and are agile in meeting special needs. - Councilmember Torres asked about budget flexibility for unused activation nights (HRF funds can carry over). - No motion was taken; the briefing was informational. Key Outcomes - Landmark Designation (26-1405): Forwarded to full City Council unanimously. Public hearing tentatively scheduled for November 9, 2026. - Rezoning (26-1406): Forwarded to full City Council unanimously. Public hearing tentatively scheduled for November 9, 2026. - Cold Weather Shelter Briefing: No formal action. Staff will continue community engagement for the Monroe shelter site (October 8 meeting) and return with a service contract for the Columbine family shelter later this fall. The committee stressed the importance of good neighbor agreements, transportation, and safety protocols.

The Finance and Business Committee of the Denver City Council met on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at 10:30 AM local time (17:30 UTC) under Chair Chris Hinds. The agenda featured a briefing on the Labor Acknowledgement Update (26-1424) and three consent items. After the briefing and discussion, the consent items were advanced to the full council without objection. Consent Calendar - 26-1407: Amendment to the agreement with Rising Medical Solutions, LLC to add $300,000 (total $2,300,000) and extend one year to December 31, 2027, for medical bill review and re-pricing services for the city's self-insured workers' compensation program. Approved by consent. - 26-1408: Lease Agreement with West Community Economic Development Corporation for $10 annually, from approximately October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2029, for operation of the Westwood Community Center at 1000 S Lowell Blvd in Council District 3. Approved by consent. - 26-1409: Amendment to a contract with A Hole In The Wall Construction (AHW Construction) to add six months (new end date February 27, 2027) for emergency fencing and building board-up services for Community Planning Development and the Department of Safety, with no change to contract capacity. Approved by consent. Briefing: Labor Acknowledgement Update (26-1424) Councilmember Chantel Lewis (District 8) presented an update on the proposed labor acknowledgement originally introduced in July 2026. The initial language specifically acknowledged the forced and uncompensated labor of enslaved Africans and their descendants, co-created with community stakeholders. After previous committee discussions, alternate language from Councilmember Flynn (broadening the scope) and from Council President Romero Campbell were circulated. Lewis's office held two informal community conversations on September 15 and 16, 2026. Participants consistently expressed that the specificity of the original acknowledgement was important and that broadening the scope would risk diluting the unique harms of slavery. Based on this feedback, Lewis determined she could not proceed with an amended version and effectively withdrew the proposal. Discussion and Councilmember Comments - Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez thanked Lewis for her values and community engagement, agreeing that distinct histories should be recognized individually while solidarity can exist across struggles. - Council President Romero Campbell expressed disappointment that she was unaware of the September open sessions and shared her perspective that a labor acknowledgement should reflect the intertwined labor exploitations of multiple communities (African Americans, Chinese railroad workers, Bracero program, undocumented immigrants), arguing that inclusivity strengthens rather than diminishes recognition. She suggested internal council conversation on a broader acknowledgement. - Councilmember Lewis clarified that this specific proposal was not moving forward but acknowledged that if council members wish to pursue a different, broader labour acknowledgement, they should do so with the same intentional community listening process. She noted she will continue reading her specific acknowledgement in her own community meetings. - Councilmember Watson thanked Lewis, stated he has been using labor acknowledgments in his district meetings for three and a half years and will continue, and looks forward to engaging if a similar process returns. Key Outcomes - The Labor Acknowledgement Update (26-1424) was presented as a briefing only; no vote was taken. The proposal was effectively withdrawn by Councilmember Lewis. - All three consent items (26-1407, 26-1408, 26-1409) were approved by consent and will move to the full City Council for final approval. Note: The agenda listed the meeting at 10:30 AM local time, but the provided timestamp indicates 17:30 UTC (11:30 AM MDT), reflecting a possible time zone difference.

The Mayor and Denver City Council held a brief general session on September 29, 2026, primarily consisting of introductions, announcements from council members about upcoming community events, and a unanimous motion to enter executive session to discuss settlement, pending litigation, and related legal advice. The meeting started at 4:30 PM UTC. Announcements & Upcoming Events - Councilman Alidris (District 7) invited the public to two events on Saturday, October 3: Bake Fest at 9 a.m. with sourdough, pies, and awards, and Denver Porch Fest in the Baker neighborhood in the afternoon, featuring over 100 musical performances, food trucks, and a farmers market at Daily Park. - Councilman Watson (District 9) announced community office hours on the same day (September 29) from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. at Corner Ramen, to increase support for small businesses and provide informal discussions. - Councilman Hines noted three evening events: a town hall at the SGI USA Buddhist Temple (Spear and Colfax) on Tuesday from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.; another town hall on Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Cerebral Brewing (Congress Park); and a Delgeny Bridge fundraising event on a different date from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. - The Council President mentioned a groundbreaking ceremony for Santa Fe Yards (Summit Denver Stadium) on Thursday at 8:30 a.m., with possible pyrotechnics, and invited attendees. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously approved a motion (all in favor, none opposed) to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 23-4A sections 3, 6, and 7 for the purpose of discussing settlement, pending litigation, and legal advice. The public session then adjourned.