Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, adoption of numerous resolutions and bills via consent agenda, a required public hearing on a zoning change for affordable housing, a courtesy public hearing on the National Western Center Equestrian Center project, and a separate discussion and vote on an intergovernmental agreement for a women's soccer stadium. The meeting adjourned at 9:50 PM. Proclamations - 25-0715: Recognized May 2025 as Myositis Awareness Month. Sponsor: Sandoval. Adopted 13-0. - 25-0716: Recognized World Facility Management Day 2025. Sponsor: Alvidrez. Adopted 13-0. - 25-0719: Honored Denver’s First Crime Director Joseph Moomaw (consent). Adopted en bloc 12-0 (Sawyer absent). - 25-0717: Honored the Powers family for multi-generational service to the Denver Police Department. Adopted 12-0 (Sawyer absent). - 25-0718: Recognized Michelle Jeske for 23 years of service to the Denver Public Library. Adopted 12-0 (Sawyer absent). Consent Calendar (Resolutions and Bills on Final Consideration Approved En Bloc) The following items were approved in a block vote (12-0, with Councilmember Sawyer absent): - Resolutions: - 25-0584 (purchase of eight EV shuttle buses for DIA, $3,097,772.88) - 25-0585 (program management support for Consolidated Rental Car Facility at DIA, $150M, 10 years) - 25-0586 (purchase of five support vehicles for DIA Fire Department, $9,615,640) - 25-0571 (reappointment of Stacie Loucks to DURA) - 25-0582 (aggregate raw materials purchase for Denver Asphalt Plant, $1.2M) - 25-0587 (aftermarket auto parts purchase, $3M, 3 years with extensions) - 25-0590 (lease amendment for storage at 4650 Steele Street, $16.3M total) - 25-0565, 25-0566, 25-0567 (dedication of public alleys) - 25-0572 (staff augmentation for traffic engineering, $3M, 3 years) - 25-0573, 25-0574 (sign replacement on-call contracts, $5.99M and $4.42M) - 25-0576 (concrete panel replacement, $820,190) - 25-0578 (pavement marking on-call, $10.7M) - 25-0580 (revocable encroachment permit for patios at 1616 Market Street) - 24-1871 (access agreement for groundwater monitoring, non-financial) - 25-0588 (Crime Victim Compensation grant, $1M) - 25-0641 (land acquisition for 4280 N. Columbine Street, $3.74M) - 25-0568, 25-0569, 25-0570 (dedication of street parcels in Council District 9) - Bills on Final Consideration: - 25-0520 (reappointment of Jane Feldman to Board of Ethics) - 25-0550 (multifamily housing revenue bonds for The Rose on Colfax Project, up to $8.5M) - 25-0551 (amendment to correct fund name for capital equipment purchase) - 25-0553 (amendment to add Medical and Dental Self Insurance funds) - 25-0589 (property exchange with ACM Park Hill JV VII LLC) - 24-1728 (amendatory agreement with Denver Public Schools for behavioral health programming, $1.72M) - 25-0546 (amendatory agreement with University of Colorado Hospital for HIV/AIDS services, $598,299 added) Public Comments & Testimony No general public comments were recorded. Public testimony was heard during the required and courtesy public hearings (see below). Discussion Items 1. Council Bill 25-0600 (Scrap Metal Regulation) - A bill to amend Chapter 45 of the Municipal Code to regulate scrap metal purchases by junk dealers. Councilmember Watson moved to postpone to May 19, 2025, for additional stakeholdering. Postponed 13-0. 2. Council Bill 25-0455 (Fleet Equipment Purchase) - A bill authorizing capital equipment purchases from the Planned Fleet Special Revenue Fund. Councilmember Parady questioned the lack of electric vehicle alternatives. DOTI’s Nick Williams responded that charging infrastructure limitations prevented EV adoption at this time. The bill was ordered published. 3. Council Bill 25-0469 (Housing Code Enforcement – Relocation Assistance) - A bill amending Chapter 27 to allow the manager of public health and environment to order relocation assistance when a dwelling is unfit for habitation. Sponsors Lewis and Watson expressed support, noting collaborative work with tenant groups and DDPHE. Ordered published. 4. Council Bill 25-0555 (IGA with Broadway Station Metropolitan District No. 1 – Women's Soccer Stadium) - This intergovernmental agreement (IGA) provides a framework for the city to support a new women's soccer stadium and associated infrastructure near South Broadway, with a total potential investment of $70 million (land acquisition and infrastructure). The IGA does not appropriate funds but signals city commitment. Council debated extensively: - Supporters (Sandoval, Alvidrez, Watson, Torres, Romero Campbell, Flynn, Kashmann, etc.) argued the project would spur economic development, create jobs, advance gender equity, and leverage private investment. They noted the IGA is only an initial step; future appropriations and community benefits agreements (CBA) would be needed. - Opponent (Parady) argued the economic impact projections are overstated, that $70 million could be better spent on housing and infrastructure, and that the process lacked transparency regarding potential future tax increment financing (TIF) requests. She voted no. - Key points: The city would purchase land and provide infrastructure; the stadium would be owned by the Broadway Station Metropolitan District, not a private entity. A future CBA is anticipated. The vote does not obligate future funding. - Vote on final passage: 11-1 (Parady nay, Sawyer absent). Passed. 5. Required Public Hearing – Council Bill 25-0411 (Rezoning for Affordable Housing at 589 & 595 S. Lincoln Street) - A proposal to rezone two parcels from U-TU-B2 UO-3 to U-RH-3A to allow a three-story affordable apartment building (up to 20 units) by the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless (CCH). The city’s Department of Housing Stability confirmed a signed affordable housing plan requiring at least 20% of units at 70% AMI for 99 years. Public testimony: - Support: Multiple representatives from neighborhood associations (Baker Historic, West Washington Park, Lincoln Broadway Corridor) spoke in favor, noting a negotiated agreement with CCH. Some expressed hope for a long-term partnership. - Concerns: One resident (Catherine Fontaine) criticized the negotiation process, saying reasonable design requests (street trees, front porches, smoking areas) were dismissed by CCH, and that the agreement only requires 20% affordability, leaving future owners unaccountable. - CCH response: They committed to ongoing collaboration but noted that codifying certain design features could conflict with city codes and financing constraints. - Councilmember Alvidrez (District 7) supported the rezoning, citing the urgent need for deeply affordable housing. The bill passed 12-0. 6. Courtesy Public Hearing – Council Resolution 25-0548 (National Western Center Equestrian Center Project Support Agreement) - The resolution approves a Project Support Agreement between the city and the National Western Center Authority to provide up to $23.3 million annually (plus a contingent loan of up to $3 million) for design and construction of the equestrian center, hotel, housing, and community facilities. The agreement would run for 35 years post-construction (estimated total $800 million over time). Community benefits include a 1% hotel room night fee (estimated $9 million over 35 years), a 4,000 sq ft community building, and roundup programs. - Public testimony was mixed: - Support (Maria Alcala, Jocelyn Hittle, Kari Black, Nancy Santos) highlighted community engagement, job opportunities, and the dedication of community space. - Opposition/Concerns (Candi CdeBaca, Harmony Cumming, Amanda Morian, Jen Winkle, Alfonso Espino from GES Community Investment Fund) argued that the community benefits are insufficient, that the CIF needs more reliable upfront funding (they requested 1% of total investment, about $16 million), and that the process lacked transparency, particularly regarding the hotel fee negotiations. They urged postponement for better terms. - Councilmembers Parady and Gonzales-Gutierrez called out the resolution for a one-week postponement under Council Rule 3.6 to allow further review. The resolution was postponed to May 19, 2025. Key Outcomes - Approved via En Bloc Vote: 16 resolutions and 7 bills on final consideration (all listed above) were adopted unanimously (12-0, Sawyer absent). - Council Bill 25-0555 (Women's Soccer Stadium IGA): Passed 11-1 (Parady nay, Sawyer absent). The IGA moves forward but does not appropriate funds; future council approvals are needed for rezoning, TIF, and community benefits. - Council Bill 25-0411 (Rezoning for Affordable Housing): Passed 12-0. The property at 589 & 595 S. Lincoln Street is rezoned to U-RH-3A, enabling a 100% affordable housing project (minimum 20% units at 70% AMI for 99 years). - Council Resolution 25-0548 (National Western Center Equestrian Center): Postponed to May 19, 2025, per Council Rule 3.6 request. - Council Bill 25-0549 (Companion fund for NWC): Postponed to May 19, 2025, to align with the resolution. - Council Bill 25-0600 (Scrap Metal): Postponed to May 19, 2025, for additional stakeholder input. - Bills for Introduction: All ordered published, including those on micromobility (25-0599), housing code enforcement (25-0469), and RiNo BID renewal (25-0640). - Next Steps: The required public hearing for the RiNo BID renewal is scheduled for May 19, 2025. The zoning change for 1060 S. Emporia Street will have a public hearing on June 9, 2025.

This weekly session of the Mayor and Denver City Council featured briefings on two family-friendly goals: connecting 5,000 children to high-quality out-of-school time programs and connecting 2,500 young adults to summer jobs, alongside an update on the UNICEF Child Friendly City Initiative (CFCI). Council members provided feedback on program accessibility, youth employment challenges, and opportunities for deeper youth engagement. Discussion Items - Summer Out-of-School Time Programs: Jess Ridgeway of the Office of Children's Affairs presented the goal to connect 5,000 additional kids to quality programs, with a focus on middle school students. The city has launched a website (DenverGov.org/youth) as a one-stop shop for program and job listings. Funding comes from reallocating existing dollars and an RFP to community organizations; no new city investment was mentioned. Council member McCallby expressed concern about inaccurate listings on the dashboard (e.g., a dentist's office listed as a program) and requested better vetting. She also noted she and Council member Romero Campbell were assigned to the family-friendly goals but had not yet been included in meetings; Ridgeway agreed to reach out to include them. - Youth Works Summer Jobs Program: The goal is to place 2,500 youth ages 14–21 in summer jobs. Youth who work 100 hours receive a $500 retention bonus. Employers hiring youth (up to 10) can receive $1,000 per youth as an incentive. Council member Sword highlighted that Denver's minimum wage ($19/hour) discourages employers from hiring inexperienced teens, though an exception allows a $2/hour discount for first-time seasonal high-school workers plus the $1,000 employer incentive. He noted many employers are unaware of the incentive. Council member Hinds noted the $1,000 per employee equates to roughly $10/hour for 100 hours, calling it significant help. Council member Cashman suggested the city provide coaching to employers on positive youth development and peer cohort models to improve retention; Ridgeway confirmed they are already training Denver Parks and Rec and Denver Libraries staff. - UNICEF Child Friendly City Initiative (CFCI): Council member Cashman credited constituent Sarah Morgan for the idea. Ridgeway explained that CFCI is a global framework for embedding youth voices in governance. Denver already has the People's Budget and the Mayor's Youth Commission, but CFCI will help create a local action plan by fall 2025 through community engagement and surveys. Council members are invited to co-host community conversations to gather feedback. Cashman emphasized the need to elevate youth participation beyond the initiative. Key Outcomes - The city will send out a newsletter to council members to distribute to their constituents to promote summer job and program sign-ups (800 jobs still open as of the meeting). - Council members McCallby and Romero Campbell will be included in regular family-friendly goal update meetings. - The Office of Children's Affairs will reach out to council members to partner on CFCI community engagement events over the summer. - No formal votes were taken; all actions were informational or directive.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber (1437 Bannock Street, Room 450) with 12 of 13 members present (President Sandoval absent). The meeting included a proclamation, several contract resolutions (including two that were voted down), bill introductions, and a final consideration of a marijuana ordinance. The meeting recessed for public comment and adjourned at 5:40 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of April 28, 2025 (Item 25-0633) by acclamation. - Adopted Proclamation 25-0654 recognizing National Interpreter Appreciation Day (unanimous 12-0). - Approved the following resolutions en bloc (vote 11-0, with Gonzales-Gutierrez and Sandoval absent): - 25-0542: Agreement with BEN Colorado, Inc. for the Inclusive Impact Catalyst Program ($1,119,465) - 25-0544: Purchase order for an EV Paint Truck at Denver International Airport ($1,271,803.09) - 25-0518: Reappointment of Christina Carlson to the Caring for Denver Board - 25-0522: Chilled water service amendment at the Webb Municipal Building - 25-0525: Standard Insurance Company employee benefits contract ($78,000,000) - 25-0526 and 25-0529: Master purchase orders for aggregate materials for asphalt plant (Martin Marietta and Holcim, each $15,000,000) - 25-0539: Legal counsel contract amendment with Garnett Powell Maximon Barlow & Farbes - 25-0543: Skillsoft Percipio Compliance Suite software contract ($1,562,398) - 25-0552: Criminal Justice Early Intervention Grant agreement ($1,660,696.90) - 25-0523, 25-0530, 25-0531, 25-0528: Dedication of public alleys/streets in various districts - 25-0524: Purchase of a robotic system truck ($543,887.92) - 25-0532: Caretaker agreement for 987 Lookout Mountain Road - 25-0533 and 25-0534: Pool repair and maintenance amendments (Aquatic Chemical Solutions and CEM Sales & Service, each +$800,000) - 25-0535: Athmar Park Neighborhood Association agreement for solar lighting and art in the Tennessee Utility Corridor - 25-0537: SEMA Construction amendment for emergency wastewater repairs - 25-0527: Center for African American Health grant amendment - 25-0541: Dream Center Denver outreach contract amendment (+$693,000) - 25-0547: Colorado Health Network HIV/AIDS services amendment (+$1,455,453) - 25-0650, 25-0651, 25-0652: Liability claim settlements ($40,000, $20,000, and $200,000 respectively) involving Denver Police Department cases - 25-0528: Alley dedication bounded by 30th, Larimer, 29th, and Walnut Streets Public Comments & Testimony No public comments are recorded in the provided transcript or minutes. A general public comment session was held during the recess, but the content was not included in the supplied materials. Discussion Items - Flock License Plate Recognition Cameras (Resolution 25-0413): Failed. Council members Parady, Flynn, Lewis, Gonzalez-Gutierrez, and Hinds spoke against the $666,000 contract amendment, citing concerns about mass surveillance, data sharing with other agencies (including ICE), lack of transparency, and potential civil liberties violations. Councilmember Parady noted that “less than 4% of car thefts solved by DPD in 2024” had a contribution from Flock. The mayor’s office reversed its position and asked for a no vote; the resolution failed 0-12. - Suncor Energy Asphalt Contract (Resolution 25-0538): Failed. Councilmembers Sawyer, Lewis, Torres, and Hinds opposed the $25,000,000 master purchase order for liquid asphalt, citing Suncor’s environmental and public health harms to Denver communities. Street Maintenance Interim Director John Essex explained that Suncor was the lowest responsive bidder, and the next bidder (Husky) would cost an additional $60,000 per year. The resolution failed 0-12. - Towing Services Contract (Resolution 25-0556): Passed. The amendment added $10,000,000 to an existing contract with Ferkam Inc., raising the total to $21,500,000. Councilmembers Lewis and Parady voted no, expressing concerns about towing of RVs and lack of oversight on whether vehicles are inhabited. Councilmembers Flynn and Hinds defended the contract, noting it serves all city agencies and is essential for accident clearance. The resolution passed 10-2, with Lewis and Parady dissenting. - Athmar Park Neighborhood Association Amendment (Resolution 25-0535): Discussed. Councilmember Alvidrez asked about maintenance responsibilities. Jessica Anderson (Denver Parks and Recreation) clarified that the neighborhood association would not handle mowing; Parks and Xcel Energy would remain responsible. The item was approved en bloc later. - Liability Claim Settlements (25-0650, 25-0651, 25-0652): Councilmember Parady expressed interest in learning from claimants about their experiences. Councilmember Lewis noted the total 2025 settlement expenditures would reach $4,687,500. - Park Hill Golf Course Property Exchange and Rezoning (Bills 25-0589 and 25-0234): Councilmember Lewis highlighted the importance of these steps for creating a community-driven park, and cautioned against displacement and gentrification. Proclamation - Proclamation 25-0654 recognized May 7, 2025, as National Interpreter Appreciation Day. Speakers from the Division of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs and Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services accepted the proclamation. Councilmembers Torres and Hinds praised the city’s progress on language access. Bills for Introduction All bills were ordered published: - 25-0520: Reappointment of Jane Feldman to the Denver Board of Ethics - 25-0550: Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds for The Rose on Colfax Project (up to $8,500,000) - 25-0551: Amendment to correct fund name for capital equipment purchase - 25-0553: Add Medical and Dental Self Insurance funds to Municipal Code - 25-0589: Property exchange with ACM Park Hill JV VII LLC - 25-0234: Rezoning 4141 East 35th Avenue from OS-B to OS-A (future public hearing on June 2, 2025) - 24-1728: Denver Public Schools behavioral health programming contract amendment - 25-0546: University of Colorado Hospital Authority HIV/AIDS services amendment - 25-0549: New fund for National Western Center Revenue Projects - 25-0555: Intergovernmental Agreement with Broadway Station Metropolitan District No. 1 Bills for Final Consideration - 25-0500: Ordinance amending Chapters 6 and 32 to modernize marijuana licensing regulations and clarify receiver requirements. Passed en bloc (11-0, Gonzales-Gutierrez and Sandoval absent). Key Outcomes - Failed Resolutions: 25-0413 (Flock) and 25-0538 (Suncor) both failed 0-12. - Passed Resolutions: 25-0556 (towing) passed 10-2; all other resolutions on the consent calendar passed 11-0. - Proclamation Adopted: Unanimously. - Bills Introduced: All bills were ordered published, with a required public hearing for 25-0234 scheduled for June 2, 2025. Protests must be filed by noon on May 27, 2025. - Final Consideration: 25-0500 passed. - Adjournment: Meeting ended at 5:40 PM.

The meeting on April 29, 2025, began with announcements from council members and a discussion of the stadium IGA (item 250555) regarding potential tax increment financing (TIFF) for a proposed women's soccer stadium. The majority of the session was dedicated to a quarterly update from the mayor on the city's 2025 goals across six strategic pillars. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation. Announcements - Councilwoman Sawyer announced a successful community cleanup with over 80 volunteers, upcoming East Park and traffic study meetings, and a personal birthday note. - Councilman Watson promoted the Colfax Marathon weekend (May 16-18) and challenged the mayor's team to a relay race. Discussion Items Stadium IGA (Item 250555) - TIFF Reimbursement Discussion Councilwoman Sandoval called off the item to seek clarification on a follow-up email from the Department of Finance indicating the ownership group's intent to seek TIFF reimbursement for the stadium itself (estimated $150–200 million) once existing infrastructure obligations are satisfied. - Tracy Huggins, Executive Director of DURA, explained that the existing urban renewal plan prioritizes reimbursement to the metropolitan district for infrastructure. Any reimbursement for stadium costs would require amendments to the infrastructure master plan and other documents, which would come before council. - Dan Barrett, advisor to the ownership group (CAA Icon), confirmed the group intends to seek TIFF reimbursement for the stadium and will engage DURA on eligibility. - Councilwoman Sandoval noted the economic impact study projected $135 million in sales/use tax revenue and $359 million in property tax revenue, but Chief Economist Lisa Martinus Templeton confirmed those figures do not account for substitution effects (only 10% net new revenue estimated). - Councilman Sawyer clarified that the infrastructure master plan is not directly approved by council but is referenced in documents that council will vote on, allowing future discussion. Quarterly Update on Citywide Goals (Q1 2025) Mayor presented progress on six goals, noting the data reflects activity through March 30, 2025. - Vibrant: 10 community meetings held, over 3,000 survey responses for the comprehensive plan (Vibrant Denver Bond). 16th Street reopening targeted for May 31, with final blocks by July. - Affordable: 170 affordable units brought online (target 3,000 for the year); most projects open in H2 2025. Applications open for commercial-to-residential conversions downtown. - Safe: Shootings down 16% year-to-date; homicides down 56%; homicides involving firearms down 65%. Downtown Action Plan launched with mounted patrol, bike patrol, and STAR responders. - All In Mile High: 1,000 people experiencing homelessness brought indoors in Q1; 500 exited to permanent housing. Councilwoman Lewis raised concerns about service quality at sites, urging partnership with smaller nonprofits and faster invoice payments. Councilman Watson requested tracking of housing retention ("stickiness"). - Climate Resilient: 616 clean energy systems installed (heat pumps, solar arrays, EV chargers). Tree planting planned in spring and fall; none in Q1. - Family Friendly: 12,000 of 60,000 kids in high-quality out-of-school programming. Summer job fairs: 660 high school students hired toward 2,000 goal; $500 bonus for youth, $1,000 stipend for employers. Councilman Cashman raised concern about rising chronic absenteeism in DPS (37.6% in 2022-23). Key Outcomes - The stadium ownership group confirmed intent to seek TIFF reimbursement; DURA will evaluate eligibility for public purpose costs. Any amendments to the urban renewal plan will require council approval. - No formal votes were taken on the stadium or quarterly update. - The council unanimously voted to enter executive session (5-0? All in favor, none opposed) pursuant to DRMC 234A to discuss pending litigation and legal advice. - The next quarterly update will occur in Q2.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber, with 13 members present (Councilmember Torres attending virtually). The meeting featured two proclamations, a block vote on 30 resolutions and bills, and council announcements. All items were approved unanimously (13-0). The meeting adjourned at 4:16 PM. Council Announcements - Councilmember Gilmore announced the disappearance of a community member and urged continued sharing of information. - Councilmember Sawyer thanked about 80 volunteers for a District 5 cleanup day, and promoted upcoming meetings for East Park (April 29) and the Holly traffic study (May 6). - Councilmember Lewis announced a District 8 town hall on May 10, the Quebec Corridor Task Force survey, and a Park Hill Golf Course survey closing May 18. - Councilmember Torres invited the public to Cinco de Mayo celebrations in Westwood on May 3-4. - Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez announced a coffee conversation in District 4 on May 2. - Council President Sandoval promoted First Friday on Tennyson Street on May 2. Proclamations 25-0604: Proclamation for Renaming Civic Center Station to Wade Blank Civic Center Station - Sponsored by Councilmember Hinds, co-sponsored by Councilmember Parady. - Honored Reverend Wade Blank, founder of ADAPT, for his disability rights activism, including the 1978 "Gang of 19" sit-in that led to Denver becoming the first U.S. city with accessible buses. - Councilmembers Hinds and Parady spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and honoring the original activists. - Representatives from Atlantis Community and RTD accepted the proclamation, noting it will be used as part of RTD's formal renaming process, with a committee expected to begin work next week and a recommendation by end of summer. - Adopted unanimously (13-0). 25-0605: Proclamation Recognizing National Youth Violence Prevention Week (April 28 – May 2, 2025) - Sponsored by Councilmember Lewis. - Noted that an average of 700 young people under 25 are directly affected by gun violence annually in Denver, and that firearm violence is the leading cause of death for children and teens in the U.S. - Councilmembers Lewis, Gonzales-Gutierrez, Gilmore, Watson, Alvidrez, and Sandoval spoke, calling for investment in youth, affordable housing, healthcare, and community programs rather than detention. - Youth leaders from Denver Game Changers (Imani Shannon, Chloe Yazar, EJ) accepted the proclamation, emphasizing the need for action and resources. - Adopted unanimously (13-0). Consent Calendar All resolutions and bills on the consent agenda were approved en bloc by a 13-0 vote. The block included: Resolutions (25 items): - 25-0493: Fourth amendment with McKinstry Essention, LLC for community solar and EV chargers – increase of $2,460,000 (new total $46,760,000). - 25-0495: Grant agreement with CDOT for guardrail upgrades on Peña Boulevard – $890,487 through 2035. - 25-0496: Contract with Hensel Phelps Construction Co. for Central Utility Plant maintenance at DIA – $7,000,000 for 5 years. - 25-0497: Contract with UPM Mechanical, LLC for CUP maintenance – $3,000,000 for 5 years. - 25-0498: Contract with Diversified Body Acquisition LLC for auto body repair at DIA – $2,500,000 for 5 years. - 25-0499: Second amendment with Marsh USA LLC for airport insurance program – increase of $16,300,000 (new total $52,809,586). - 25-0428: Amendment with Gartner, Inc. for technology contract optimization – increase of $550,000 (new total $1,000,000), extended to Oct 31, 2025. - 25-0480: Appointment of David Berton to the Board of Adjustment (terms through June 2025 and 2028). - 25-0481 through 25-0487: Appointments and reappointments to the Santa Fe Business Improvement District (Michael Vela, Sasha Zanabria, Andrea Barela, George Lim, Jim Stevens, Kristina Sablatura, Russell Brown) – terms through March 2028. - 25-0501: Amendment with Xerox Corporation for copier and managed print services – increase of $3,000,000 (new total $10,500,000), extended to Dec 31, 2029. - 25-0502: New contract with Xerox Corp. for copier services – $7,000,000 through July 31, 2034. - 25-0503: Third amendment with KG Clean, Inc. for janitorial services – increase of $1,700,000 (new total $6,925,000), extended to Apr 20, 2026. - 25-0504: Third amendment with Roth Property Maintenance, LLC for janitorial services – increase of $9,100,000 (new total $40,650,000), extended to Apr 30, 2026. - 25-0505: Contract with KONE Inc. for conveyance maintenance – $3,000,000 through Mar 21, 2028 with two one-year options. - 25-0458: Contract name change from Flatiron Constructors, Inc. to Flatiron Dragados Constructors, Inc. – no change in amount or length. - 25-0488: Street dedication of a parcel as West 10th Avenue near Xavier Street (District 3). - 25-0489: Street dedication of two parcels as North Speer Boulevard near 14th Avenue (District 10). - 25-0494: Third amendment with J&K Trucking LLC for hauling services – increase of $1,000,000 (new total $11,000,000), extended to Nov 8, 2025. - 25-0492: Amendment with Diversified Body Acquisition LLC for firetruck repairs – increase of $500,000 (new total $950,000). - 25-0506: Contract with The Gathering Place: A Refuge For Rebuilding Lives for micro-community operations at 1375 Elati Street – $1,100,000 through Dec 31, 2025. - 25-0540: Loan agreement with The Empowerment Program, Inc. for 70 permanent supportive housing units at 1777 Franklin St – $3,150,000 for 60 years. - 25-0490: Street dedication of a public alley bounded by 29th Ave, Firth Court, Speer Blvd, and Bryant St (District 1). - 25-0491: Street dedication of a public alley and North Santa Fe Drive near 3rd Ave (District 7). Bills for Final Consideration (2 items): - 25-0457: Ordinance extending sunset dates in Chapter 28 to October 31, 2026. - 25-0456: Ordinance authorizing purchase of a Type 3 Wildland Fire Engine from the Wildland Fire Reimbursement Fee Program Special Revenue Fund. Bills for Introduction (1 item): - 25-0500: Ordinance amending Chapters 6 and 32 to align marijuana licensing with state law and clarify receiver requirements – ordered published. Key Outcomes - All 30 items on the consent agenda were approved unanimously (13-0). - Two proclamations were adopted unanimously (13-0). - The meeting adjourned at 4:16 PM.

The meeting began with roll call and announcements from council members, followed by a presentation on the Denver International Airport's Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) program. After the presentation, the meeting was adjourned, but the transcript also includes pre-recorded informational segments on Denver Mountain Parks, the airport baggage handling system, and native plant gardening. Announcements - Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer (District 5) wished Denver's NBA and NHL teams (Nuggets and Avalanche) well in the playoffs and announced a District 5 community cleanup on Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. at Montclair Rec Center. - Councilman Darrell Watson (District 9) promoted a virtual community meeting on scrap metal theft and regulated sales from 6-7 p.m. the same evening, with sign-up through his office. - Councilman Kevin Cashman (District 10) recognized Earth Day, criticized the federal administration's climate policies, and praised Denver's environmental efforts. - Council President Amanda Sawyer (a different member? Actually the transcript shows "Madam President" – likely the council president) offered condolences on the death of Pope Francis and shared a quote about serving others. Presentation: CATS Program - Stacey Segman, Senior VP of Customer Experience at DEN, introduced therapy dog Olaf and his handler Brian Sieber (Denver Parks and Rec employee). - The Canine Airport Therapy Squad (CATS) launched in October 2015 with 28 teams; it now has 115 teams that donate over 3,500 hours annually. - Dogs are certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and Pet Partners, must pass tests including riding the train and ignoring distractions, and must be at least one year old. - Volunteers commit to a minimum of 10 hours per quarter, with sessions up to two hours between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. - The program holds the Guinness World Record for the largest animal therapy program at any airport, a title they actively maintain. - Dogs participate in community events such as Rocky Mountain Honor Flight, Denver Human Services Adoption Day, and hospital visits. - Council members expressed appreciation; Councilwoman Sawyer shared a personal story about her mother's anxiety being relieved by a therapy dog at the airport. Informational Segments (Pre-recorded or other meeting components) - Denver Mountain Parks History: A narrated segment described the origins of Winter Park ski area, purchased by the city in 1939 with private and federal funds. It highlighted the role of George Cranmer, the construction of the first rope tow, the historic Balcony House (built 1955), the invention of slope grooming, and the National Sports Center for the Disabled (established 1970). The segment noted funding challenges and the protective city charter that prevents sale without a vote. - DEN Baggage Handling System: An explanation of the automated system measuring nearly 10 miles long with over 5,000 conveyors, processing more than 2 million bags per month (up to 12,000 bags per hour). It described the journey from check-in (Level 6) to screening (Level 3), sortation, and underground cart transport to gates, averaging 20 minutes from check-in to aircraft. DEN has 18 domestic and 3 international baggage carousels plus 6 oversized carousels. - Native Plant Gardening: Grace Johnson, Assistant Manager of Horticulture at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, discussed low-water native plants adapted to Colorado. She highlighted species such as Echinacea palata (regionally native), pearly everlasting, prairie dropseed, bee balm (Monarda fistulosa), milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), and Cleome serrulata (called the "fourth sister"). She provided advice on converting turf to garden, watering schedules, leaving stems for pollinators, and avoiding fertilizer. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken. The meeting served as an informational session where council members received updates on the CATS program and other city services. The council adjourned without an executive session.

The Denver City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, April 21, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 4:16 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included council announcements, two proclamations, approval of minutes, and adoption of 28 resolutions and one bill via a single block vote (12-0) with Councilmember Lewis absent. Three bills were introduced for publication. Council Announcements - Councilmember Torres announced a public meeting on Saturday, April 26, to review the draft Southwest Area Plan (covering Westwood, Marley, Ruby Hill, Athmar Park, Overland) at Goldrick Elementary School, 10 AM to noon. - Councilmember Gonzales‑Gutierrez condemned the detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an immigrant with legal status, and urged support for immigrants and due process. - Councilmember Sawyer invited residents to District 5’s biannual community cleanup on Sunday, April 27, at 8:30 AM at Montclair Rec Center (over 60 volunteers signed up). - Councilmember Alvidrez thanked colleagues for visiting the future soccer stadium site and echoed concerns about human rights; announced an event at Athmar Park Rec Center on Saturday, 10:30–11:30 AM. - Councilmember Hinds thanked thousands who attended a democracy rally at the state capitol; announced a legislative town hall on Wednesday, April 23, at 5:30 PM at Central Presbyterian Church. - Councilmember Watson invited residents to a virtual town hall on proposed scrap metal legislation on Tuesday, April 22, 6–7:30 PM. - Councilmember Parady noted that subcommittee meetings for the 2025 Vibrant Bond issuance are open to public observation; encouraged following the 2025 Vibrant Bond subcommittee schedule. - Council President Sandoval invited residents to an Earth Day cleanup at Sloan’s Lake Park on Friday, April 26, 9–10 AM, and acknowledged the passing of Pope Francis. Proclamations - 25‑0561 – Earth Day 55 (April 22, 2025) – Councilmember Kashmann read the proclamation, which highlighted the urgency of climate change, criticized the current federal administration for exacerbating the crisis, and recognized local actions (Office of Climate Action, expanded recycling/composting, microtransit, Green Code, etc.). Councilmembers Kashmann and others expressed support for local climate efforts. Liz Babcock (Director of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency) accepted the proclamation, noting continued progress despite federal challenges. Rachel Hutchins (Bluff Lake Nature Center) and Derek McCoy (Groundwork Denver) also spoke in support of environmental stewardship. Adopted 12‑0. - 25‑0562 – Child Abuse Prevention Month (April) – Councilmember Gonzales‑Gutierrez read the proclamation, emphasizing prevention through family strengthening, home visiting, and community partnerships. She thanked Denver Human Services staff and community providers. Councilmembers Gilmore, Pro Tem Romero Campbell, and others spoke about the need for mental health and substance misuse programs to break cycles of trauma. Anne‑Marie Braga (Director of Denver Human Services) accepted the proclamation, reminding the public to call 844‑CO4Kids if concerned about a child. Adopted 12‑0. Consent Calendar (Block Vote) All resolutions and bills below were adopted or placed upon final consideration en bloc by a 12‑0 vote (Lewis absent). No items were called out for separate votes. Business, Arts, Workforce, Climate & Aviation Services Committee: - 25‑0344 – Grant agreement with U.S. Department of Labor for $6,250,000 to fund H‑1B job training (Building Pathways to Infrastructure). - 25‑0449 – Concession agreement with Mission Yogurt, Inc. (d/b/a PF Chang’s) on Concourse A at DEN; minimum rent $792,000/year plus percentage rent; 10‑year term. - 25‑0450 – Concession agreement with Mission Yogurt, Inc. (d/b/a Que Bueno! Suerte) on Concourse B at DEN; minimum rent $540,000/year plus percentage rent; 10‑year term. - 25‑0451 – Concession agreement with MB Creation, LLC (Timberline Steaks & Grille / Einstein Bros Bagels) on Concourse C at DEN; minimum rent $2,200,860/year plus percentage rent; 10‑year term. - 25‑0452 – Concession agreement with InMotion DEN‑B, LLC for kiosks on Concourses A and C; minimum rent $656,549/year plus percentage rent; 9‑year term. - 25‑0453 – Contract with Apex Multifamily Builders, LLC for exterior painting/coating at DEN; $5,000,000 over 5 years. - 25‑0454 – Contract with Quality Linings & Painting, Inc. for exterior painting/coating at DEN; $5,000,000 over 5 years. - 25‑0462 – Amendment to contract with Sukle Advertising for climate action marketing; extends end date to July 18, 2027 (no cost change). Finance & Governance Committee: - 25‑0429 to 25‑0432 – Reappointment of Jonathan McMillan, Dr. Jennifer Gafford, Lisa Thompson, and Orlando F. Salazar III to the Crime Prevention & Control Commission (terms through 2027). - 25‑0433 – Emergency on‑call security services contract with Aquila Services Corp. (Denver Metro Protective Services); $1,000,000 through April 30, 2028. - 25‑0436 – Third amendatory agreement with American Mechanical Services for emergency plumbing; add $250,000 (new total $750,000). - 25‑0437 – Third amendatory agreement with Solutions Mechanical for emergency appliance maintenance; add $100,000 (new total $600,000). - 25‑0448 – Second Amended Revival Amendatory Lease with Quebec Hospitality LLC for non‑congregate sheltering at 4685 Quebec Street; add $5,067,360 (new total $17,432,700) and extend to December 31, 2025. - 25‑0461 – Purchase of insurance policies for FY2025‑26; not to exceed $14,002,905. Land Use, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee: - 25‑0373 – On‑call professional services contract with CONSOR North America for traffic engineering/Advanced Mobility; $3,000,000 over 3 years. - 25‑0435 – Purchase order with Wagner Equipment Co for a cold planer asphalt paver; $584,934. - 25‑0438 – Food/beverage concession license with Legacy Hospitality & Entertainment Group at Evergreen Golf Course; $100,000 minimum annual guarantee plus 15% of monthly gross; 12‑year term. - 25‑0439 – Amendatory agreement with Bedrock, LLC to increase vendor fee rate by 3% for material placement in parks/medians (no total amount change). - 25‑0443 – Street dedication: East 23rd Avenue near North Uinta Street. - 25‑0444 – Alley dedication bounded by West 45th Avenue, North Julian Street, West 44th Avenue, North King Street. - 25‑0446 – Street dedication: North Yates Street near West 13th Avenue. - 25‑0460 – Name change on bridge construction contract: Flatiron Constructors, Inc. to Flatiron Dragados Constructors, Inc. (no financial change). Safety, Housing, Education & Homelessness Committee: - 25‑0434 – Amendment with Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver to expand summer programs; add $30,000 (new total $925,500). - 25‑0440 – Amendment with SoundThinking, Inc. (formerly ShotSpotter) for gunshot detection; decrease contract amount by $200,000 (new total $4,500,000). South Platte River Committee: - 25‑0445 – Contract with BNSF Railway for construction access/easement at Jewell Avenue pedestrian bridge; $988,757. Bills for Final Consideration (en bloc): - 25‑0417 – First amendment to the property exchange agreement with Allied Waste Systems, extending due diligence through May 2025. Bills for Introduction (Ordered Published) - 25‑0457 – Ordinance extending sunset dates in Chapter 28 (Business, Arts, Workforce, Climate & Aviation Services Committee) to October 31, 2026. - 25‑0456 – Ordinance authorizing purchase of a Type 3 Wildland Fire Engine from the Wildland Fire Reimbursement Fee Program Special Revenue Fund. - 25‑0335 – Ordinance changing zoning at 4634 & 4638 North York Street (Elyria Swansea) from E‑TU‑B to U‑RH‑2.5. A public hearing is scheduled for May 19, 2025; protests must be filed by noon on May 12, 2025. Key Outcomes - All items on the consent calendar (28 resolutions plus 1 bill) were adopted or placed upon final consideration and do pass by a vote of 12‑0 (Lewis absent). - Three bills were ordered published; the zoning bill (25‑0335) will have a public hearing on May 19, 2025. - The meeting adjourned at 4:16 PM.

The mayor and Denver City Council held their weekly session on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. The meeting featured council member announcements and a special tribute to outgoing City Librarian Michelle, who has served the Denver Public Library since 2001 and as Executive Director since 2015. No formal votes or public testimony occurred. Announcements - Councilmember from District 5 announced two upcoming meetings for Cherry Creek residents and businesses regarding a potential General Improvement District: an online informational meeting for residents inside the Cherry Creek Business Improvement District on April 15 at 5:30 p.m., and a business information session on April 17 at 12:30 p.m. for businesses outside the district. - Councilmember Abbey announced a community meeting on April 17 at 6:00 p.m. at Ratio Brewery (2030 South Cherokee) about creating a General Improvement District, and constituent hours on April 18 from 3:30–5:30 p.m. at Table Public House. - Councilmember Watson (District 9), along with Councilwoman Alvidras (District 10) and Councilmember Parody at-large, announced a virtual town hall on modernizing parking requirements on April 15 from 6:00–7:30 p.m. (Zoom link available via district offices). - Councilmember Lewis announced District 6’s Academy in the Community on April 16 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at Cook Park Rec Center (7100 Cherry Creek South Drive), noting potential road closures. - Council Pro Tem Romero Campbell announced a final community conversation about the Elevate Go Bond on April 16 at 5:15 p.m. at Hamilton Middle School. - Madam President announced a community Easter egg hunt on Saturday at Regis University (50th Avenue and Lowell) at noon. Recognition of City Librarian Michelle - Mayor and council members delivered heartfelt remarks thanking Michelle for her 24-year career. Mayor praised her transformative leadership: expanding the library’s website to include Arabic (now with Vietnamese, Spanish, English, and Arabic), eliminating overdue fines, embedding social workers, reinventing the Central Library, and opening three new branches (Ragland, Archilletta, and a future Globeville location). - Councilmembers shared personal stories: Councilmember Watson recalled her early support when he ran for office; Councilmember Sandoval highlighted the bookmobile’s impact in Northwest Denver; Council Pro Tem Romero Campbell noted Michelle’s work to include informal caregivers after a past incident; Councilmember Kines (District 10) praised her communication during the Cherry Creek Library closure and her citywide approach. - Michelle outlined upcoming library programs: Día del Niño celebrations in April, the Eleanor Garys Awards on May 5 honoring reporter Kevin Beatty, Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month programs in May, Summer of Adventure starting in June, and the Silent Pages Society (quiet book club) events. Key Outcomes - The meeting adjourned after the tribute. No formal actions or votes were taken.

The Denver City Council met on Monday, April 14, 2025, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included two proclamations, several resolutions and bills, and two required public hearings on rezoning applications. Twelve members were present, with Councilmember Parady absent. The meeting adjourned at 6:24 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of April 7, 2025 (25-0507). - Approved Proclamation 25-0516 recognizing Jane Potts and Gertie Grant during National Volunteer Month (12-0). - Approved Proclamation 25-0517 honoring Deputy Chief Joseph Montoya for his service to the Denver Police Department (12-0). - A motion to suspend the rules to allow late filing of Resolution 25-0441 (St. Francis Center shelter amendment) passed 11-0 (two absent). - A block vote approved the following items in a single motion (12-0): - Resolutions: 25-0412, 25-0416, 25-0418, 25-0419, 25-0400, 25-0404, 25-0421, 25-0422, 25-0447, 25-0401, 25-0402, 25-0403, 25-0406, 25-0414, 25-0405, 25-0415, 25-0442, 25-0441 - Bills: 25-0384 (final consideration) - Bills for introduction: 25-0417 and 25-0411 were ordered published. Proclamations - 25-0516: Recognized Jane Potts and Gertie Grant for decades of volunteerism including neighborhood organizing, tree planting (Denver Diggs Trees distributed over 75,000 trees, Trees Across Colorado planted 33,000 shade trees), and historic preservation. Both spoke in acceptance. - 25-0517: Honored Deputy Chief Joseph Montoya, a Denver native and Lincoln High School graduate, for his 34-year career in law enforcement, including roles at Northglenn PD and Denver PD, where he held numerous command positions and received a Distinguished Service Cross. His wife Joanne and family were present. Council members praised his leadership and service. Discussion Items - Resolution 25-0420: Purchase of eight electric shuttle buses for DEN ($3,097,772.88). Councilmember Lewis noted that DEN requested the item be voted down due to incorrect language in the purchase order. The resolution failed 0-12. - Resolution 25-0327: $15 million on-call contract with HNTB Corporation for sidewalk program administration. Councilmember Hinds raised concerns about lack of specificity and use of on-call contracting. Councilmember Sawyer questioned DOTI staff. DOTI explained the need for flexibility. Councilmember Kashmann expressed support. Passed 11-1 (Hinds nay). - Resolutions 25-0447 and 25-0441: St. Francis Center non-congregate shelter operations at 4685 Quebec St. Councilmember Lewis commented on the importance of diversifying service providers and praised St. Francis Center's work. These were included in the block vote. - Resolution 25-0415: Amendatory agreement with Colorado Nonprofit Development Center for health access facility. Councilmember Lewis highlighted support for community-based organizations. Included in block vote. - Bills for Final Consideration: Bill 25-0384 (rescission and appropriation for electrified mobility maintenance) passed as part of block vote. Public Hearings Council Bill 25-0249: Rezoning at 3419 West 5th Avenue, Barnum - Request: Rezone from E-SU-Dx to E-RH-2.5 to allow rowhouse development. - Staff Report: Will Prince, CPD, presented. The site is approximately 13,000 sq ft. The application includes an affordable housing plan requiring 12% of units at 70% AMI (or one unit) for rent, or 90% AMI if sold. The West Area Plan memo was considered. - Public Testimony: No speakers signed up to testify. - Council Questions: Councilmember Torres asked about the affordable housing agreement. Laya Mitchell (HOST) confirmed a 99-year covenant for one on-site affordable unit. Applicant Eric Grepliz described plans for 10 for-rent units (1,400-1,600 sq ft), all with three bedrooms. - Vote: Passed 12-0. Council Bill 24-1312: Rezoning at 500, 501, and 551 Wazee Street, Auraria - Request: Rezone from C-MX-8 to D-CPV-C (Downtown Central Platte Valley Auraria Center) to allow higher density mixed-use development. - Staff Report: Tony Lechuga, CPD, presented. The site is approximately 2.5 acres near Ball Arena, currently with a two-story office, soccer fields, and surface parking. The proposed zone district allows up to 150 ft with incentives, with enhanced building design standards. The applicant has entered into a voluntary affordable housing agreement with HOST and an MOU with the Auraria Higher Education Center for a community healing garden. - Public Testimony: Three speakers in favor: - David Olguin (Auraria Higher Education Center) supported the rezoning and noted a significant donation for the Ninth Avenue Peace and Healing Garden. - Sean Maley (applicant representative) described the voluntary affordable housing plan (treating the site as high-cost market area) and the agreement with Auraria Foundation. - Landon Scott (property owner) expressed gratitude and had no further comments. - Council Questions: Councilmember Torres asked about timing of the Auraria funding (upon rezoning completion) and the viewplane. Councilmember Flynn asked about transit richness (proximity to two light rail lines). David Olguin clarified community coordination for the healing garden. - Council Comments: Councilmember Torres appreciated the added benefits and community engagement. Council President Sandoval thanked the Scott family for slowing the process and supporting reconciliation. - Vote: Passed 12-0. Key Outcomes - The electric shuttle bus purchase (25-0420) failed due to administrative error; will be resubmitted. - The sidewalk program contract (25-0327) passed despite concerns about oversight; quarterly reports to council will be provided. - All other resolutions and bills on the consent agenda passed unanimously. - Two rezoning applications (Barnum and Auraria) were approved, each with affordable housing commitments. - The next required public hearing is scheduled for May 12, 2025, on Council Bill 25-0411 (Washington Park West rezoning). Protests must be filed by May 5, 2025.