Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

The Denver City Council met on Monday, March 3, 2025, at 3:30 PM (with a recess and reconvening at approximately 5:30 PM) under Council President Sandoval. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, council announcements, consideration of multiple resolutions and bills, two proclamations, and a public hearing on a natural medicine licensing ordinance. All 13 council members were present (Councilmember Kashmann attended virtually). Consent Calendar - Minutes: The minutes of February 24, 2025 (item 25-0265) were approved unanimously. - Block Vote (Resolutions & Bills on Final Consideration): Council adopted the following items en bloc by a 13-0 vote: - Resolutions: 25-0185, 25-0186, 25-0187, 25-0188, 25-0190 (Denver International Airport concessions), 24-1864 (Ernst & Young advisory services), 25-0177 (Kaiser health plan amendment), 25-0178 (janitorial supplies), 25-0198, 25-0199, 25-0200, 25-0202 (Mile High Montessori lease amendments), 25-0204 (WCI lease), 25-0206 (RiNo BID hearing), 25-0176 (East 16th Ave Storm Phase 2), 25-0179 (street dedication), 25-0180 (Peña Station Pointe plat), 25-0197 (Skyline Park ice rink), 25-0053 (Bluff Mercy supportive housing), 25-0159, 25-0160, 25-0161 (Volunteers of America rehousing contracts), 25-0181, 25-0182, 25-0183 (asbestos abatement), 24-1864 (Ernst & Young). - Bills on final consideration: 25-0165 (multifamily housing bonds, $29M), 25-0147 (easement relinquishment), 25-0151 (street vacation), 25-0087 (property tax rebate program transfer), 25-0094 (new fund for property tax rebate). Public Comments & Testimony Public Hearing on Natural Medicine (Council Bill 25-0132) – Ten individuals signed up to speak: - Natasha Poinset (Healing Advocacy Fund, Colorado Director) – Spoke in favor, urging passage to enable healing centers for mental health; noted concerns about setback distances but deferred to council. - Jesse Paris – Expressed support, stating psilocybin helped with depression; asked about referral process and Medicaid/Medicare coverage. - Riley Steidel (Evergreen, former Mayo Clinic scientist, sexual assault survivor) – Opposed, arguing the bill could limit access for unlicensed growers/facilitators who help people for free; feared repeal of 301 would re-criminalize personal use. - Andrew Gibbons (Denver native with bipolar disorder) – Opposed, saying regulation will make treatment too expensive and cut off access for microdosers and low-income individuals. - Kyle Dyer – Opposed, calling the bill anti-democratic, exclusionary of small businesses, and a setback for Denver’s psychedelic community. - Others (Travis Tyler Fluck, Evan Segura, Erin Spillane, Kyle Obenberger, Kelly Obenberger) signed up in opposition; they did not appear or their comments were not transcribed. General Public Comment – The meeting included a half-hour general comment session before the public hearing; no specific speakers were listed in the minutes or transcript, but a recorded segment (unrelated to the meeting) played during that period. Discussion Items 1. Resolution 25-0184 (BL Holdings lease at DIA) – Councilmember Lewis opposed, citing a 10-year lease with a one-year purchase option as too short to make an informed decision. Passed 12-1 (Lewis nay). 2. Resolution 25-0189 (Starbucks/Cruise Room concession at DIA) – Councilmember Lewis and Parady voted no; no discussion recorded. Passed 11-2. 3. Resolution 25-0175 (Stone Security IP camera maintenance) – Councilmember Parady requested postponement to gather more information on a recent $1.5M addition. Postponed to March 10, 2025. 4. Council Bill 25-0167 (Capital equipment from Climate Protection Fund) – Councilmember Lewis opposed, arguing the fund should be preserved for uses that cannot be funded elsewhere; DPD could use other funds for EV pilot. Passed 11-2 (Lewis, Parady nay). 5. Council member announcements – Various members highlighted community events, personal milestones, and the continuation of language access services in Denver (as reaffirmed by Councilmember Torres). 6. Public Hearing - Natural Medicine Licensing (Council Bill 25-0132) – Abby Soisson (Department of Excise and Licenses) presented staff report: The bill repeals Denver’s 2019 psilocybin decriminalization ordinance (301) to align with state law (Prop 122), creates a local license for healing centers (with exemptions for federally recognized tribes and clinical facilitators), prohibits outdoor advertising, and maintains state setbacks (1,000 ft from schools/daycares). Councilmembers asked about tribal exemptions, misappropriation of indigenous knowledge, affordability, personal cultivation, and enforcement. Councilmember Hinds spoke in support, calling it a natural evolution and responsible governance. Key Outcomes - Resolution 25-0184 – Adopted (12-1). - Resolution 25-0189 – Adopted (11-2). - Resolution 25-0175 – Postponed to March 10, 2025. - Council Bill 25-0167 – Ordered published (11-2). - Block Vote – All listed resolutions adopted and bills placed on final passage (13-0). - Proclamations: 25-0071 (St. Patrick’s Day Parade) and 25-0266 (Aztec New Year) adopted unanimously (13-0). - Council Bill 25-0132 (Natural Medicine) – Placed on final consideration and passed unanimously (13-0) after public hearing. The ordinance updates local regulations to align with state law, establishes licensing for healing centers, and repeals the 2019 decriminalization ordinance. - The meeting adjourned at 6:59 PM.

This weekly Mayor–Council meeting took place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, beginning at 16:30 UTC. The public portion featured a presentation by Denver’s Channel 8 team on their operations, services, and future plans, followed by a brief Q&A. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss a potential real property purchase, public financing, and legal advice. Discussion Items - Channel 8 Presentation – Mike Gallegos, Content and Creative Services Director for Denver 8, introduced the Channel 8 team and highlighted their work. He noted the studio is located in the basement of the city building (accessible via a street-side entrance or through the garage, but with limited accessibility). The team manages live broadcasts of council meetings, committees, planning boards, and other city events; produces shows such as The Gavels (weekly council highlights), Denver This Week, Elevating Denver, and neighborhood stories series; and also supports Red Rocks screen operations. Gallegos reported that the studio uses aging technology (12+ years old) and that the city is about to hire a consultant—funded through the PEG (Public, Educational, and Governmental) franchise fee from Comcast—to modernize the equipment. He also noted that Denver Community Media, a separate learning facility on 21st & Arapahoe, has a state‑of‑the‑art space with about 130 members. - PEG Fund Sustainability – Councilman Flynn asked about the long‑term outlook of the PEG fund, which comes from Comcast subscriber fees. Jenny Shavoni, Chief Digital Officer for Technology Services, explained that the fund has been declining but appears to have plateaued recently (approximately 60,000 Comcast subscribers remain in Denver County). She noted that the city renewed the Comcast franchise agreement last year (in the second year of a five‑year renewal) and will soon conduct a full audit and community engagement to assess the value of PEG‑funded channels. The city is also soliciting an over‑the‑top streaming platform to reduce reliance on cable. Operational costs come from the general fund; PEG covers only capital expenditures. - Legacy Projects and Community Use – Council President recounted past uses of Channel 8 for community documentation (e.g., a health impact assessment in Globeville, Hispanic Heritage Month features) and praised the team for their behind‑the‑scenes work, including setting up microphones for budget hearings on a Sunday (Bronco game day). Councilman Watson referenced the recent Fair Election Fund process and noted that the Clerk and Recorder’s office will work with Channel 8 on cost estimates for election debates, expected to be augmented by 2027. - Content Decisions for The Gavels – Councilman Gonzalez‑Gutierrez asked who decides the content of The Gavels. Gallegos responded that the live stream producer, Tim Senese, works with council communications staff (Robert Austin and Benita) to select the biggest topics each week. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were taken during the public portion. - Council was invited to tour the Channel 8 studio and to partner on future content. - The meeting then moved into executive session pursuant to DRP 234 sections 3, 4, and 6, to discuss the city's potential purchase of real property, securing public financing, and related legal advice. A motion was carried unanimously (voice vote) to enter that session.

The Denver City Council met on Monday, February 24, 2025, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations, multiple consent agenda items, and three public hearings on zoning changes. Key actions included the unanimous approval of a zoning correction in Washington Virginia Vale, the approval of a contested rezoning in City Park West after mediation, and the failure of a rezoning in Platt Park due to inconsistency with adopted plans. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of February 18, 2025. - Adopted resolutions en bloc (24 items) including contracts for Denver International Airport financial consulting (Protiviti Government Services, Inc. – $3,000,000; AvAirPros, Inc. – $5,000,000), T-Mobile/Sprint spectrum consolidation and addition ($1,305,000 added), Denver Fire Department uniform contract amendment (Skaggs Companies Inc. – $900,000 added), Infield Mix master purchase order (DuraEdge Products – $650,000), non-congregate sheltering amendment at 4849 Bannock Street (Central Lodging, LLC – $2,745,600 added), RTD grant for Federal Boulevard BRT TOD plan, several street/alley dedications, revocable permits, Empowerment Program supportive housing grant ($634,880), St. Francis Center day shelter amendment ($1,175,000 added), and others. - Approved bills for final consideration en bloc: Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant ($2,800,387), Denver Great Kids Head Start budget ($11,571,248), Denver Downtown Development Authority agreement renewal, and Denver Golf fee schedule amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - General public comment session (5:00-5:30 PM): Several residents spoke on various city matters; not detailed in transcript. - Public hearings on zoning bills: - 25-0097 (5401 E Dakota Ave): One speaker (Jesse Parris) spoke in favor, representing Black Star Action Movement and other groups, supporting the rezoning as consistent with criteria. - 25-0013 (1709 N Williams St): Two speakers: property owner Mike McAtee (available for questions), Jesse Parris opposed, expressing concerns about lack of details on use, affordability, and traffic study. - 25-0030 (1628-1630 S Ogden St): 18 speakers signed up. 11 spoke in favor (neighbors, applicants, community members) highlighting need for multi-generational housing, existing duplexes in area, and consistency with neighborhood character. 3 spoke in opposition (neighbors Christy Leach, Nancy Rice, John McKenna) citing concerns about density, parking, precedent, and applicant’s real estate background. Opponents noted the property has only one address in assessor’s records and the rear structure was originally a professional office. Discussion Items - Proclamations: - 25-0243: Honoring William H. Whitsell, first Black man born in Colorado. Unanimously adopted (13-0). - 25-0166: Celebrating Denver International Airport’s 30 years of operation. Unanimously adopted (13-0). Speakers noted DEN’s 41,000 employees, 1.5 billion passengers, 229 non-stop destinations, and its role as economic engine. - 25-0244: Honoring Denver’s African American libraries (Blair-Caldwell, Pauline Robinson, Ford-Warren, Bob Ragland) and their namesakes. Adopted 12-0. - 25-0246: Uplifting Black History Month and the fight for freedom and justice. Adopted 12-0. Councilmembers spoke about resistance to erasure, importance of DEI, and commitment to equity. - Called-out resolutions: - 25-0141 (Denver Fire Dept uniforms): Councilmember Paridy asked about the $900,000 increase. Emily Locke (Public Safety) explained COVID replenishment, recruitment surge in 2023, and vendor challenges. Council President Sandoval asked about PFAS chemicals; Locke confirmed uniforms are not bunker gear and follow-up on PFAS would be provided. - 25-0158 (St. Francis Center day shelter): Councilmember Watson asked about contract use. Christopher Lowell (HOST) stated funds are for operational costs only, not building purchase. - Called-out bills for introduction: - 25-0167 (Police EV purchase from Climate Protection Fund): Postponed to March 3, 2025, after Councilmember Lewis expressed concern about using climate funds. Two vehicles (Chevy Blazer EV police pursuit and Silverado EV) at issue. - 24-1312 (Auraria zoning): Postponed to March 17, 2025, at applicant’s request. - Noise ordinance (25-0044): Passed 12-1 (Councilmember Flynn opposed). Discussion included commercial trash collection start time change from 7 AM to 6 AM. Denver Solid Waste confirmed they will not change their start time. Councilmember Hinds asked about pre-event sound checks for festivals in Cheesman Park; DDPHE and Parks agreed to coordinate. - Zoning public hearings: - 25-0097 (5401 E Dakota Ave): Rezone from R-1 to E-SU-Dx to correct a clerical error in the Near Southeast Area Plan. Staff reported error; rezoning consistent with plans. Passed unanimously (12-0). - 25-0013 (1709 N Williams St): Rezone from B-2 WVRS to G-MS-3 for redevelopment. Staff recommended approval. Mediation with adjacent business (Weather Vane Cafe) resulted in MOU on dust control and potential business closure compensation. 22 letters of opposition (mostly about Googie architecture) were submitted before mediation. Passed unanimously (12-0). - 25-0030 (1628-1630 S Ogden St): Rezone from U-SU-C to U-TU-C to allow duplex. Staff recommended denial, citing inconsistency with Blueprint Denver’s guidance on two-unit uses in low residential areas (zoning pattern is single-family, despite existing two-unit use). Planning Board had recommended approval (5-1) citing need for density. Applicant had two legal single-unit dwellings on one lot; wanted to build attached duplex for multi-generational living. Protest petition signed by 45% of land area within 200 feet (exceeds 20% threshold, requiring 10 votes). Council debated plan consistency vs. housing need. Failed 2-10 (Alvidrez and Parady in favor; Flynn, Gonzales-Gutierrez, Hinds, Kashmann, Lewis, Romero Campbell, Sandoval, Sawyer, Torres, Watson opposed). Key Outcomes - Proclamations adopted: 25-0243 (Whitsell), 25-0166 (DEN 30 years), 25-0244 (African American libraries), 25-0246 (Black History Month) — all unanimous. - Resolutions and bills en bloc adopted/passed: 24 items approved without objection. - Postponements: Bill 25-0167 (police EV purchase) postponed to March 3, 2025. Bill 24-1312 (Auraria zoning) postponed to March 17, 2025. - Noise ordinance passed: 25-0044 passed 12-1 (Flynn nay). Effective upon publication. - Zoning approvals: - 25-0097 (5401 E Dakota Ave) passed 12-0. - 25-0013 (1709 N Williams St) passed 12-0. - Zoning denial: 25-0030 (1628-1630 S Ogden St) failed 2-10 (needed 10 votes due to protest). - Next meetings: March 3, 2025 (public hearing on natural medicine ordinance – 25-0132); March 17, 2025 (public hearing on Auraria rezoning – 24-1312).

The Denver Mayor and City Council held a weekly session on February 18, 2025. The meeting included announcements from council members and a motion to enter executive session. No public testimony or substantive discussion items were heard. Announcements - Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell (District 4) reminded residents of a community survey, directing them to the district website or office for hard copies. - Councilman Hudson (District 10) announced an annual survey for district residents, accessible via denverperfect10deck.com/survey. - Councilman Darrell Watson (District 9) invited constituents to February community hours on Friday, February 21, from 1:00 to 2:15 p.m. at Voodoo Tavern (22nd and Bruce Randolph). - Councilwoman Jamie Torres (District 3) shared a personal update about adopting a dog named Ruka from the Denver Animal Shelter, noting the dog is a blue heeler mix. - Councilman Paul Cashman (District 6) thanked the mayor for remarks at Mr. Richie's memorial celebration, praising the event's tone. - Council President announced that the City Council as a whole will receive the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's public achievement award on March 1, 2025, for supporting Latino and small businesses. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (all ayes, no opposition) to move into executive session pursuant to DRMC 234A4 and 6 to discuss the city's potential purchase of real property to secure public financing. The meeting ended for the public at that point. No other business was conducted during the open session.

The Denver City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, starting at 3:30 PM and adjourning at 10:15 PM. The meeting included a consent agenda, several resolutions, bills for introduction, a proclamation honoring a retired police officer, and three public hearings on zoning changes, gas station restrictions, and campaign finance reforms. All 13 council members were present. Consent Calendar - Minutes of February 10, 2025 (25-0201) – Approved. - Resolution 25-0212 – Approved expenditure of $120,441 from City Council Special Revenue Fund for mobile home park improvement surveys. - Resolution 25-0129 – Approved a $2,134,566 contract with Comcast for ENS services to 29 Denver Public Library branches and an offsite data center (through June 2028). - Resolution 25-0112 – Approved a $769,218.77 purchase order with Insight Public Sector for anti-malware and identity protection solutions (March 2025 – March 2026). - Resolution 25-0124 – Approved Mayor’s appointments to the Denver Women’s Commission (8 appointees, term 02/01/2025 – 01/31/2027). - Resolution 25-0125 – Increased maximum spend with Purcell Tire & Rubber Company by $2.5 million (new total $3.5 million). - Resolution 25-0128 – Approved reappointments to the Santa Fe Business Improvement District (Tom McLagan and David Brehm, term through 12/31/2027). - Resolution 25-0130 – Approved $1.8 million purchase of the fifth floor of the parking garage at 1375 Delaware Street (District 10) from School District No. 1. - Resolution 25-0134 – Reappointed Lila Hailey to the Head Start Policy Council (term through 1/29/2026). - Resolution 25-0174 – Approved up to $2 million agreement with Covington & Burling LLP for legal representation in a congressional inquiry by the U.S. House Committee on Government and Reform. - Resolution 24-1859 – Approved $1,172,690 contract with JALISCO INTERNATIONAL, INC. for concrete medians and curb ramps on Evans Avenue Vision Zero Project (District 2). - Resolution 25-0114 – Dedicated a city-owned parcel as public alley (bounded by N Julian St, W 44th Ave, N King St, W 45th Ave, District 1). - Resolution 25-0115 – Amended contract with WILSON & COMPANY for Larimer Street Bridge final design (added $26,160, new total $1,070,053.23, extended to 12/31/25). - Resolution 25-0121 – Amended contract with Maloney Tree Care for tree maintenance (no change in amount or length). - Resolution 25-0122 – Approved $500,000 pass-through from GOCO grant to Bluff Lake Nature Center for improvements (District 8). - Resolution 25-0123 – Approved $2.7 million grant agreement with High Line Canal Conservancy for trail improvements in Windsor and Green Valley Ranch (Districts 5 and 11, through 09/01/2027). - Resolution 25-0135 – Approved $1,142,160 purchase order for 24 Ford Interceptor Hybrid EV/Gas patrol vehicles for Denver Police Department ($47,590 each). - Resolution 25-0117 – Approved $1,824,414 contract with Colorado Village Collaborative for La Paz Micro-Community shelter operations (District 7, through 12/31/2025). (Called out at 2/10/25 meeting for postponement to 2/18/25; adopted.) - Resolution 25-0133 – Amended contract with Find Solutions LLC for mediation services (added $88,500, new total $700,625, extended to 06/30/2025). - Resolution 25-0209 – Approved $2.5 million settlement for claims related to Tejas Cousik, et al. v. City and County of Denver (Denver Police Department case). Postponed Item - Resolution 25-0116 – Funding for Continuum of Care Bedrock Program ($634,880, through 10/31/2025) was postponed one week by Councilmember Flynn due to an $8 discrepancy in the contract amount. Proclamation - Proclamation 25-0208 – Honored retired Denver Police Officer Robert Simmons for Black History Month. Adopted 13-0. Speakers included Chief Ron Thomas and family; Simmons was awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery in 1973. Public Hearings & Discussion Items Zoning Change for 4507 N Rifle Way (Council Bill 24-1794) - Staff Report: Tony Lechuga (CPD) presented a rezoning from PUD 319 to S-MX-5 (suburban mixed use, up to 5 stories) on a 12-acre vacant parcel in Gateway – Green Valley Ranch (District 11). The site had maxed out its residential allowance under the PUD. The rezoning includes an affordable housing agreement requiring 8% of for-sale units at 80% AMI or less (or 15% of rental units at 70% AMI) with 99-year covenants, and an open space agreement including a regional trail connection. No RNO or public comments received in opposition. - Public Testimony: Jesse Parris (speaking for multiple organizations) expressed support but asked about AMI levels and traffic studies. Councilmember Gilmore noted the project will produce for-sale duplexes by KB Home, addressing missing middle housing needs. - Outcome: Passed 13-0. Gas Station Zoning Limitations (Council Bills 24-1866 and 24-1867) - Staff Report: Alisa Childress and Andrew Webb (CPD) presented a text amendment prohibiting new retail gas stations within 1/4 mile of a rail transit station, within 1/4 mile of an existing gas station, and within 300 feet of a protected residential zone district. Exemptions for non-retail fueling (government fleets, etc.) and for gas stations associated with retail stores over 20,000 sq ft. Existing gas stations would become compliant (can operate, transfer, renovate, but cannot expand number of pumps). Cutoff date for in-process applications: May 13, 2024. Planning board recommended approval 5-0. Public comments: 36% support (including Colorado Wyoming Petroleum Marketers Association), 48% opposition. - Public Testimony: 29 speakers. Supporters (e.g., Megan Williams, Jill Osa, Chris Nicholson, Richard Loope) cited health risks (benzene, childhood leukemia), overcrowding along transit corridors, and need for housing. Opponents (e.g., Fred Glick, David Foster, Sandy Hecomovich, Robert Hatch) argued retroactive application unconstitutionally impairs property rights, kills contracts (seven affected applications), and sets bad precedent for business confidence. QuickTrip representatives noted they bring competition and upgrades to aging stations (average build year 1984). Councilmembers questioned the legality of retroactivity; City Attorney stated they believe it is constitutional. - Council Discussion: Sponsors (Romero Campbell, Sawyer, Kashmann) defended the May 13 cutoff as balanced, noting that 18,000 property owners were notified and stakeholders were engaged. Council President Sandoval noted map pushes gas stations into industrial corridors along the Platte River, historically impacting communities of color. Councilmember Gilmore urged inclusion of parks and waterways. Councilmember Flynn expressed reservations about retroactivity but voted yes. Councilmember Alvidrez voted no, citing business unpredictability and food desert concerns. - Outcome: Passed 12-1 (Councilmember Alvidrez dissenting). Bills 24-1866 and 24-1867 approved as a block. Campaign Finance Ordinance (Council Bill 24-1676) - Sponsors: Councilmembers Watson and Sawyer. The amendment unifies and simplifies campaign finance code, bans anonymous donations (except $50 cash with tracking), clarifies debate requirements (mandatory for Fair Elections Fund candidates, must be neutral, ADA accessible, with 10 business days notice), establishes neutral hearing officers for complaints, and lists prohibited FEF expenditures (e.g., alcohol, marijuana, gift cards). CPI adjustments to contribution limits were included. - Amendments: Councilmember Sawyer moved amendments to correct typos, adjust aggregate limits to match CPI (e.g., Mayor limit to $895,095; Council at-large to $298,365; District to $149,180), and change “days” to “business days” (two places). Passed 13-0. - Public Testimony: Owen Perkins (Clean Slate Now Action) supported banning anonymous donations but objected to dual standards for FEF vs. private candidates and urged funding debates from sources other than FEF. Jesse Parris criticized the 2023 FEF implementation (matching issues, ballot access). Dianne Thiel suggested a solo candidate opportunity for a broadcast if only one FEF candidate. - Council Discussion: Clerk’s Office (Andy Scaris, Nick Mann) confirmed debates will be better coordinated, possibly with Denver 8; costs estimated under $150,000 from FEF. Councilmember Hinds shared personal experience with inaccessible debate stage in 2023. Councilmember Kashmann noted overall benefits outweigh concerns. - Outcome: Passed 13-0 as amended. Key Outcomes - Resolutions and consent items adopted en bloc (13-0) except one postponement. - Rezoning of 4507 N Rifle Way to S-MX-5 approved 13-0. - Gas station zoning restrictions approved 12-1, effective February 25, 2025, with retroactive cutoff date of May 13, 2024 for pending applications. - Campaign finance ordinance approved 13-0 as amended, effective immediately. - Next Meeting: Public hearing set for March 17, 2025 on Council Bill 25-0086 (zoning for multiple properties in Chaffee Park, Sunnyside, Highland, Jefferson Park). Protests due by noon March 10, 2025. - Future items: Pending rezonings for 1709 N Williams Street (Feb 24), 1628 S Ogden Street (Feb 24), and 5401 E Dakota Avenue (Feb 24). Note: The meeting included a break for public comment on unrelated matters and a video segment about dinosaurs at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science (not part of council business).

The weekly session of the Denver Mayor and City Council convened on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 4:30 PM local time. The meeting began with brief audio technical difficulties, then proceeded with councilmember announcements and a single update from the Mayor regarding a recent agreement between Comcast and Kroenke Sports & Entertainment to end a six-year blackout of Nuggets and Avalanche games. The meeting then moved into executive session to discuss the city's response to recent federal actions. Announcements - Councilman Sawyer announced a District 5 community open house at George Washington High School on February 11, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, despite expected snow. - Councilman Gonzalez Gutierrez, on behalf of Councilwomen Gilmore and Parody, announced the 10th annual District 11 town hall on Thursday, February 13, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Eve Garriott campus in Green Valley Ridge. - Councilwoman Mero Kim announced a District 4 survey being distributed by phone and text, with hard copies available. She also promoted a community event on February 21, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM, featuring food, games, and information from city departments, co-hosted with the Mayor. Update on Nuggets and Avalanche TV Access - The Mayor reported that after a six-year lockout, Comcast and Kroenke Sports & Entertainment reached an agreement to restore broadcasts of Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche games on all TV providers in the Denver market. The Mayor noted that the Nuggets had won seven consecutive games since the deal, and expressed excitement that Denver fans can now watch both teams’ potential championship runs at home. Key Outcomes - The Council voted unanimously (no opposition noted) to move into executive session under DRMC 234A, sections 1, 2, 3, and 7, to discuss the city's response to recent federal action and receive related legal advice. The public session was then adjourned.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included a proclamation honoring Negro League history, individual call-outs and discussions on several resolutions and bills, a block vote on numerous consent items, and postponements of a micro-community contract and a rezoning bill. Council adjourned at 4:38 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of February 3, 2025 (25-0163). - Adopted en bloc (13-0) the following resolutions: 25-0075 (Bibliotheca self-check machines), 25-0079 (Lipski Group public art at DEN), 25-0080 (AtkinsRéalis financial consulting at DEN), 25-0081 (G2 Secure Staff lease amendment at DEN), 25-0082 (Frasca & Associates financial consulting at DEN), 25-0085 (APTIM climate rebate administration), 25-0072 (Tymesha Watkins reappointment to Citizen Oversight Board), 25-0073 (TruePoint Solutions Accela support), 25-0074 (Verizon cellular service), 25-0076 (EP Blazer auto parts), 25-0083 (UKG Kronos for Sheriff's Dept), 25-0084 (UKG Kronos for Police/Fire), 25-0095 (land purchase at 1060 S. Emporia Street), 25-0077 (Center for African American Health grant), 25-0088 (Volunteers of America family shelter), 25-0089 (The Delores Project rapid rehousing), 25-0118 (Monroe Village micro-community), 25-0119 (Steele Village micro-community), 25-0093 (Merrick & Company design at National Western Center). - Placed on final passage en bloc (13-0) the following bills: 25-0040 (classification and pay plan changes), 25-0061 (Morrison Road property acquisitions), 25-0026 (Denver Health opioid pain management), 25-0027 (Denver Health addiction medicine phone line expansion), 25-0028 (DPS substance misuse support positions). - Ordered published the following bills for introduction: 24-1676 (campaign finance), 25-0096 (parks legacy fund transfer), 25-0090 (Denver Health child welfare medical services), 25-0091 (Medicaid eligibility incentive). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard during the meeting. Discussion Items - Proclamation 25-0164: Councilmember Watson sponsored a proclamation honoring Denver's role in Negro Baseball League history and its connection to the Historic Five Points neighborhood. Former Council President Elber Wedgeworth and Lashida Sayers accepted the proclamation, highlighting the African American Heritage Calendar and the 2021 All-Star weekend displays. The proclamation was adopted unanimously. - Resolution 25-0095 (Parkland Purchase): Councilmember Sawyer called out the resolution to celebrate the city's purchase of 1.94 acres at 1060 South Emporia Street in the Windsor neighborhood for $750,000, funded by the Parks Legacy Fund and a $75,000 contribution from Denver Parks Trust. She noted this was the first such acquisition in District 5 and a promise kept to voters. No further questions were raised. - Resolution 25-0077 (Center for African American Health): Councilmember Lewis called out the resolution but offered no substantive comments or questions. - Resolution 25-0088 (Volunteers of America): Councilmember Lewis asked about the program's location. Chris Lowell (HOST) confirmed the program operates at the Sand and Sage Motel and will shift to the new Theodora Family Hotel in May 2025. Lewis had no further questions. - Resolutions 25-0117, 25-0118, 25-0119 (Colorado Village Collaborative Micro-Communities): Councilmember Alvidrez called out the three resolutions as a block, focusing on 25-0117 (La Paz Micro-Community). She questioned the 120-person capacity figure, which Chris Lowell explained as 60 units flipping once per year. Alvidrez noted that as of December 2024, only 97 people had been served and 12 exited to housing, expressing confusion about projections. Midori Higa (HOST) described the new Housing Central Command model that will integrate referrals from all All In Mile High sites, aiming for 950 housing resources. Alvidrez also cited an underspend due to delayed opening and the absence of a safety manager position in the current contract. She moved to postpone 25-0117 to the next regular meeting, which was granted. - Bill 24-1676 (Campaign Finance): Councilmember Lewis called out the bill for questions. She expressed concern about the lack of a cost estimate for debate facilitation. Andy Secaris (Clerk's Office) and Councilmember Sawyer explained that the “shall” language requiring an RFP was removed to allow flexibility, and that costs could be covered by the Fair Elections Fund or contingency, with two budget cycles available before the 2027 election. Councilmember Parady asked about the conflict-of-interest language for debate moderators; Assistant City Attorney Shabaga stated it derived from federal presidential debate rules. Parady requested the federal regulation. The bill was ordered published with a required public hearing on February 18, 2025. - Bill 25-0086 (Zoning Reclassification): Councilmember Parady called out the bill to postpone it. She explained she needed to connect with a property owner in the affected area (Chaffee Park, Sunnyside, Highland, Jefferson Park) and did not want to amend the application on the night of the vote. The bill was postponed to February 18, 2025. Key Outcomes - Proclamation 25-0164 adopted unanimously (13-0). - Resolution 25-0117 (La Paz Micro-Community) postponed to February 18, 2025, per Councilmember Alvidrez's call-out. - Bill 25-0086 (Zoning) postponed to February 18, 2025, by a unanimous vote (13-0). - Block vote for all other resolutions and bills on final consideration passed unanimously (13-0). - Bills for introduction (24-1676, 25-0096, 25-0090, 25-0091) ordered published. - Next meeting: Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 3:30 PM (due to Presidents' Day holiday on February 17), with a required public hearing on Bill 24-1676 (campaign finance).

This meeting of the mayor and Denver City Council on February 4, 2025, began with announcements from council members regarding upcoming district events, followed by a detailed presentation of the city's six 2025 citywide goals by the mayor. Council members then raised questions and offered comments on various goals, including concerns about retail theft sentencing, tree canopy gaps, interagency coordination, wildfire evacuation planning, and retail theft prevention strategies. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to enter executive session to discuss the city's response to recent federal action. Announcements - Councilmember Sawyer announced the District 5 annual open house on Tuesday, February 11, 5:30 p.m. at George Washington High School library. - Councilmember Watson announced a Fair Election Fund Town Hall that evening (February 4) from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Glenarm Rec Center, featuring food from Taco Uprising. - Councilmember Hines announced the District 10 annual survey (DenverPerfect10.com/survey) and a monthly coffee and conversations event on Thursday, February 20, 12:30–2:00 p.m. at Populous. - Councilmember Torres thanked attendees for Lunar New Year celebrations and promoted a Paletero stories event on Friday, February 7, 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the Revision campus on Morrison Road. - Councilmember Lewis announced a District 8 town hall on Saturday, February 8, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at Hiawatha Davis Jr. Recreation Center to discuss district vision and a community-driven process for allocating $500,000. - Council President Sandoval highlighted a major rezoning initiative (Council Bill 25086) covering four neighborhoods (Traffee Park, Sunnyside, Highland, Jefferson Park) as implementation of the Blueprint Denver neighborhood plan, describing it as the largest rezoning she has led. Discussion Items - Mayor presented 2025 citywide goals (six goals, 27 departments, aligned budgets): 1. Vibrant Denver – A comprehensive plan for strategic investments, full reopening of 16th Street Mall, deploying Downtown Denver Development Authority dollars, converting commercial property to residential for affordable housing. 2. Affordability – Bring online 3,000 new affordable housing units (at all income levels, 0–80% AMI) through building, acquiring, preserving, and rental supports, aiming to close the long-term 45,000-unit gap. 3. Safety – Continue decreasing shootings (23% reduction in past year) and homicides (20% reduction); focus on nonviolent crime (retail theft, property crime) through a coordinated public health and enforcement approach. 4. All in Mile High – Move 2,000 people from street homelessness into transitional housing and 2,000 exits into permanent housing (all new individuals). 5. Climate Resilient – Add 2,000 heat pumps, EV chargers, and solar arrays; plant 4,500 new trees; reduce water usage by 20 million gallons; develop a citywide fire resiliency plan. 6. Family Friendly – Connect 5,000 more middle-school kids to out-of-school programming; expand summer and permanent jobs for youth; plan for expanding childcare access in 2026. - Councilmember Parady expressed support for a public health-oriented approach to nonviolent crime but raised concern about the mayor's letter supporting local control over sentencing, noting that Denver's maximum sentences for low-level offenses (e.g., 300 days for petty theft) are far higher than state law (10 days). She worried about racial equity and unintended consequences. - Mayor responded that local autonomy is important, and that retail theft is a real problem threatening store closures; the city is exploring non-incarceration remedies but needs enforcement options. - Councilmember Torres asked for details on: 1. A timeline assessment of delayed capital bond projects (due to COVID). 2. Clarification that affordable units target all income levels. 3. Neighborhood-level data on shootings and violent gun crimes. 4. Whether the 2,000 housing placements are all new individuals (mayor confirmed yes). 5. A flag that tree canopy partners (e.g., Denver Urban Gardens) rely on federal grants now held up. 6. Exploring family, friend, and neighbor childcare licensing as an anti-displacement strategy. - Councilmember Sawyer stressed that interagency coordination failures have undermined past goals, citing a recent issue with funding and safety implications. He urged that city agencies communicate before implementation. - Mayor acknowledged and committed to improving multidisciplinary coordination. - Councilmember Cashman praised the climate goal and highlighted the Office of Children's Affairs' work on a UNICEF child-friendly city designation, which involves assessing current conditions and centering children's voices. - Councilmember (unidentified, likely District 8 or 11) raised two points: 1. Push for policy requiring CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) plans as part of business licensing for high-theft retailers, shifting some burden from police to businesses. 2. Urgent need for a comprehensive wildfire evacuation plan for Central Park, Montbello, Green Valley Ranch, and Park Hill, given proximity to Rocky Mountain Arsenal and lack of transportation options. - Mayor agreed, noted they are already working on CPTED partnerships in retail corridors, and thanked the council member for the wildfire concern. - Councilmember Hines noted a 6% shrinkage rate for a major retailer on 16th Street Mall and suggested placing a police substation in an empty storefront; also requested small business support along 16th Street Mall and Colfax during BRT construction, referencing a budget amendment championed by Councilmember Sawyer. Key Outcomes - The council unanimously voted to enter executive session (DRMC 234A sections 1, 2, 3, and 7) to discuss the city's response to recent federal action and related legal advice. - Council President Sandoval will individually contact each council member to assign them to one of the six goal teams, aiming to have appointments finalized by the following week. - The mayor committed to providing follow-up information on capital bond project delays, neighborhood-level crime statistics, and coordination with council members on goal implementation.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 3:30 PM and adjourned at 6:40 PM, with all 13 members present. The meeting included council announcements, approval of minutes, receipt of a mayoral veto, consideration of numerous resolutions and ordinances related to homelessness services, airport operations, and a major public hearing on updating the city's rezoning criteria (Council Bill 24-1797). Multiple contracts with the Salvation Army and Colorado Coalition for the Homeless sparked debate about service quality and provider diversity. Consent Calendar - Minutes of January 27, 2025, were approved (25-0140). - Communication 25-0069 (mayoral veto of CB 24-1791) was received and filed; no motion to override. - The following resolutions and bills were adopted on a single block vote (13-0): - 24-1705 (Urban Institute – STAR/Co-Responder evaluations) - 24-1855 (Family Promise – temporary housing) - 25-0029 (Naloxone Project – harm reduction pilot) - 25-0047 (Volunteers of America – Sinton's Sanctuary shelter) - 25-0049 (The Gathering Place – micro-community site) - 25-0050 (Bayaud Enterprises – Denver Day Works) - 25-0051 (Bayaud Enterprises – cold-weather shelter staffing) - 25-0052 (Denver Rescue Mission – shelter services) - 25-0059 (Sierra Detention Systems – jail/court security maintenance) - 25-0054, 25-0055, 25-0056, 25-0057 (Denver International Airport contracts) - 25-0045 (Vision Service Plan – employee vision benefits) - 25-0062 (Denver Preschool Program board appointment) - 25-0063 (arbitrator panel appointments) - 25-0043 (Westwood Recreation Center construction) - 25-0060 (Big Truck Rental – refuse truck rentals) - 24-1648 (Salvation Army Lambuth Center shelter) - 24-1649 (Salvation Army – Stone Creek shelter staffing) - 24-1650 (Salvation Army – 4040 Quebec shelter management) - 25-0014 (RTD EcoPass for DIA concessionaires) - 25-0018, 25-0019, 25-0020 (HIV/AIDS services contracts) Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (5:00 PM session): No speakers signed up; the half-hour session proceeded without testimony. - Public Hearing on Council Bill 24-1797 (Rezoning Criteria Update): Four speakers addressed council: - Monica Martinez (Executive Director, FAX Partnership) – spoke in favor, noting the three-year task force process and the importance of notifying renters. - Caitlin Quander (Planning Board Chair) – spoke in favor, highlighting improved transparency and tenant notification; recommended continued council involvement in implementation. - Joel Noble (Curtis Park resident) – spoke in favor, urging passage and noting the need for future steps like accessible online notifications and pre-recorded staff presentations. - Jesse Parris (District 8 resident, multiple community groups) – spoke in opposition, arguing the changes would enable gentrification and lack meaningful equity metrics; expressed skepticism about council's predetermined votes. Discussion Items - Salvation Army Contracts (24-1648, 24-1649, 24-1650, 24-1703, 24-1775): Councilmember Lewis called out these items, questioning service quality and provider responsiveness in District 8. Midori Higa (HOST) provided performance data: Best Western shelter served 307 clients in 2024, 125 exited to permanent/stable housing; DoubleTree served 557 clients, 155 exited to stable housing. Cole Chandler (All In Mile High) committed to a task force examining shelter concentration in the Quebec corridor by end of March. Councilmembers Watson, Romero Campbell, and others raised concerns about large providers and lack of diversity. Council President Sandoval urged the Salvation Army to meet regularly with Councilmember Lewis. - Colorado Coalition for the Homeless Contracts (25-0022, 25-0048): Councilmembers Lewis and Parady questioned the quality of services and staff morale, suggesting contracts create a