Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

This meeting of the Mayor and Denver City Council focused on updates to the city's solid waste program, including an accelerated compost rollout, changes to recycling and large item pickup schedules, and related operational and environmental impacts. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) team presented their plan and answered council questions. Discussion Items - Accelerated Compost Rollout: DOTI Executive Director Amy Ford announced that compost service citywide would be completed by March 15, 2025, ahead of the original end-of-2025 target. Residents must opt in by January 10, 2025, to receive a compost cart. The city will hold “come and get it” events and use a contractor to deliver approximately 40,000 carts. Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell questioned the opt-in approach, noting it may lead to low participation and more trash. The team explained that an opt-out model in a previous rollout led to high contamination, so opt-in was adopted to ensure better composting practices. - Bi-Weekly Recycling: Starting January 6, 2025, recycling will be collected every two weeks instead of weekly. DOTI cited that recycling bins are only 50–58% full on average, and weekly recycling adds 170,000 truck miles and uses 50,000 gallons of fuel annually (vehicles get 3 mpg). Residents who need extra capacity can request a second recycling cart. Council President Amanda Sandoval expressed concern that less frequent recycling could cause problems for high recyclers. - Large Item Pickup Change: Large item pickup will shift from every four weeks to every nine weeks. Amy Ford noted that the program was originally intended for large items, not general trash, and that the longer interval may reduce landfill waste. Council President Sandoval raised strong concerns that this change will increase illegal dumping, especially in areas near other jurisdictions, and pointed to existing problems under bridges. Rich, Solid Waste Director, responded that the city will deploy a full-time illegal dump truck crew working 40 hours a week to address complaints faster. Sandoval questioned the effectiveness of enforcement in high-risk areas. - Cart Backlog: DOTI acknowledged a backlog of cart requests (e.g., size changes, damage replacements) with wait times of 2–6 weeks. A surge effort during January–February 2025 aims to reduce waits to under 30 days. - Other Topics: A pilot program for electric solid waste vehicles will begin in 2025. Council members also discussed options for disposing of tree branches after a snowstorm; the Cherry Creek drop-off site (7301 East Jewell) accepts branches, and the city is considering adding Monday hours. Key Outcomes - Approved Plan: The city will implement the new schedule starting January 6, 2025: weekly trash, bi-weekly recycling, weekly compost (for those who opt in), and nine-week large item pickup. The compost rollout will be completed by March 15, 2025. - Council Concerns: Multiple council members voiced worries about increased illegal dumping, the opt-in compost model, and the impact on residents who rely on frequent service. No formal vote was taken on the plan itself; it was presented as an administrative decision. - Executive Session: The council voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss litigation settlement and collective bargaining, pursuant to DRMC 23-3 C(1) and 23-4 A(3) and (6).

On November 12, 2024, the Denver City Council convened at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included the adoption of the Mayor's Proposed 2025 Budget, two proclamations honoring veterans and a historic fire station, and approval of a large consent agenda of resolutions and bills. All votes were unanimous (13-0) with 13 members present. Consent Calendar - Mayor's Proposed 2025 Budget (24-1453): Adopted unanimously (13-0) after Council President Sandoval thanked Councilmember Torres for leading council efforts to incorporate community priorities, noting increased support for rental assistance, youth programs, and local businesses. - Resolutions and Bills: A block vote approved all remaining resolutions (24-1177, 24-1475, 24-1481, 24-1431, 24-1456, 24-1457, 24-1463, 24-1485, 24-1459, 24-1460, 24-1482, 24-1484, 24-1489, 24-1275, 24-1276, 24-1474, 24-1476, 24-1477, 24-1479) and bills for final consideration (24-1441, 24-1447, 24-1388 through 24-1401) en bloc. All passed 13-0. Discussion Items - Proclamation Honoring Veterans (24-1629): Sponsored by Councilmembers Flynn and Watson. Councilmembers shared personal military family stories. Councilmember Flynn noted that Fort Logan National Cemetery in District 2 holds approximately 150,000 veterans. Councilmember Sawyer acknowledged the lasting trauma of war, referencing her great-grandfather's struggle after WWI. The proclamation was adopted 12-0 (Alvidrez absent). - Proclamation Recognizing Fire Station 3 (24-1630): Sponsored by Councilmembers Lewis and Watson. Fire Station 3, Denver's oldest continuously used firehouse, was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 14, 2024. Councilmembers highlighted its history as the first all-black fire company (1897) and its role in Five Points. The proclamation was adopted 13-0. - Resolution 24-1456 – Foreclosure Case Management Software: Councilmember Lewis asked whether the new software ($800,000, ending 10-14-2029) would improve the system or just track data. Ben Schler, Clerk and Recorder's Office, explained that Denver is the last county in Colorado using the outdated "benchmark" software, which will soon lose vendor support. The new system, used by 57 other counties, will be a significant upgrade for tracking foreclosures and public access. No opposition. - Resolution 24-1275 – Charter School Kitchen Upgrades: Councilmember Lewis confirmed that the $549,020.39 contract with the Colorado League of Charter Schools (part of the Healthy Food for Denver's Kids Initiative) also partners with Denver Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services for installation and training. Jess Mearson, program fiscal and contract admin, elaborated that DPS FNS will assist with kitchen upgrades. Key Outcomes - Adopted the Mayor's Proposed 2025 Budget (13-0). - Adopted two proclamations: Veterans Day (12-0) and Fire Station 3 historic designation (13-0). - Approved all consent agenda resolutions and bills en bloc (13-0). - Ordered publication of multiple bills for introduction (including classification and pay plan changes, a Downtown Development Authority fund, a traffic signal condemnation at Federal Boulevard and Amherst Avenue, and a park contribution in District 11). - Announced a public hearing on December 9, 2024, for Council Bill 24-1314 (rezoning 1401 North Fairfax Street in Hale). Protests due by noon on December 2, 2024. - Adjourned at 4:33 PM.

Note: The official minutes for this meeting are dated Monday, November 4, 2024, but the instruction for this summary requires using the date November 7, 2024. This discrepancy is noted. The Denver City Council convened to adopt a proclamation, consider a series of amendments to the Mayor’s Proposed 2025 Budget, hear public comment, and hold a public hearing for a zoning change. The meeting ran from approximately 3:30 PM to 9:48 PM (MT). All budget amendments brought by Councilmembers failed to secure majority support, except those withdrawn. Several items were approved en bloc, and a zoning map amendment for 10353 East Mississippi Avenue was passed after a public hearing. Proclamation - 24‑1584: A proclamation honoring former reporters Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt for their investigative work exposing white nationalism, culminating in the book The Silent Brotherhood and its movie adaptation The Order. The proclamation was adopted 12‑0‑1 (Councilmember Flynn abstained after initial vote, but the final tally shows 12 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstain (Flynn)). Councilmember Flynn and Nancy Gerhardt (Gary’s widow) offered remarks. Mayor’s Proposed 2025 Budget – Amendments Council considered a series of amendments to the 2025 budget. All were either withdrawn or defeated. Key amendments and outcomes: - 24‑1564 (Parady Amendment No. 1): Withdrawn. - 24‑1565 (Parady Amendment No. 2): Would have transferred the Aid Center from the Office of Neighborhood Safety to DDPHE to support the Roads to Recovery program. Failed (5 ayes, 8 nays). - 24‑1567 (Parady Amendment No. 4): Would have moved the Street Engagement Team (SET) and its funding from the Department of Safety to the Department of Housing Stability (HOST). Failed (5 ayes, 8 nays). - 24‑1573 (Parady Amendment No. 10): Would have eliminated one police recruit academy class ($3.2 M). Failed (3 ayes, 10 nays). - 24‑1572 (Parady Amendment No. 11): Would have added $500,000 for the STAR program. Withdrawn after the Mayor’s office committed to a future supplemental. - 24‑1575 (Lewis/Parady/Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 1): Would have directed $3 M from CASR energy conservation funds to HVAC upgrades at four library branches with frequent closures. Failed (3 ayes, 9 nays). - 24‑1577 (Lewis/Parady/Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 3): Would have provided $2.5 M + $250,000 for acquisition and operation of a safe RV parking site. Failed (3 ayes, 9 nays). - 24‑1576 (Lewis/Parady/Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 2): Would have added $500,000 and 4 FTEs for behavioral health services at All In Mile High sites. Failed (5 ayes, 7 nays). - 24‑1578 (Lewis/Parady/Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 4): Would have added $2.5 M for the Denver Basic Income Project. Failed (6 ayes, 6 nays; tie = fail). - 24‑1579 (Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 1): Would have added a public health investigator position. Withdrawn after an agreement with the Mayor’s office to add $400,000 for two positions in DDPHE. - 24‑1580 (Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 2): Withdrawn (replaced by next). - 24‑1587 (Gonzales‑Gutierrez Amendment No. 3): Would have added $233,000 for a digital equity program manager and 500 devices. Failed (5 ayes, 7 nays). Consent Calendar / En Bloc Approval A block vote of 31 resolutions and bills from various committees was approved 11‑0‑2 (Alvidrez and Watson absent). Items included: - Contract amendments for mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and restoration services (multiple vendors). - Grant agreements for workforce development (EV technician training), healthy food programs for children (EKAR, Jovial Concepts, Urban Peak, Urban Symbiosis), and affordable housing projects (4340 S. Monaco, 1350 N. Logan, 1135 Logan). - Dedication of public alleys and street rights‑of‑way. - Appointment of Clarence Low to the Denver Commission on Aging and Taemy Kim‑Mander to the Asian American Pacific Islander Commission. - Issuance of up to $29 M in multifamily housing revenue bonds. - A microtransit contract with Montbello Downtowner, LLC ($5.99 M for 3 years). - A property exchange with Allied Waste Systems (18‑acre parcel for 25‑acre parcel near DIA). - Approval of 2025 assessments for several local maintenance districts (Tennyson, Skyline Park, 15th Street, etc.). - First amendment to a loan agreement regarding DUS Project Mill Levy Pledge. - Amendments to intergovernmental agreements for Medicaid eligibility work. Public Comments & Testimony (General Comment Session, 5:00–5:30 PM) - Several business owners and citizens spoke in opposition to a proposed flavored tobacco ban, citing economic harm, risk of illicit markets, and the loss of tax revenue for pre‑K programs. - A speaker urged moving the Street Engagement Team to HOST, arguing it would improve outreach outcomes. - A Skinner Middle School principal urged full funding for Vision Zero and Safe Routes to School after a student was hit by a car near the school. - Other speakers addressed anti‑Semitic vandalism at a park and the conditions at the Pisa Studios apartment complex. Public Hearing – Zoning Change (Council Bill 24‑1209) - 10353 East Mississippi Avenue (Windsor neighborhood): Rezoning from B‑1 (drive‑through ATM only) to S‑MX‑3 (suburban mixed‑use, up to 3 stories). The applicant (Red Mountain Group) and neighborhood association representatives spoke in favor, noting a plan for dental, coffee, and pet‑vet uses, and a recorded covenant limiting height to two stories. No opposition speakers appeared. The Council sat as a Committee of the Whole, heard staff report, and voted 10‑0‑3 (Alvidrez, Lewis, Watson absent) to pass the ordinance. Key Outcomes - Proclamation 24‑1584: Adopted. - All budget amendments: Failed or withdrawn; the Mayor’s Proposed 2025 Budget will be approved without these changes. - Consent agenda: Approved en bloc (11‑0‑2). - Council Bill 24‑1209: Passed (10‑0‑3). - Future public hearings announced for December 2, 2024, on two other zoning cases (3719 N. Wolff St. and 1079 S. Hooker St.). - Councilmember announcements: Veterans Day events, encouragement to vote in the November 5 election, and a birthday acknowledgement for Councilmember Kashmann.

The Denver City Council met on November 6, 2024, to adopt a proclamation honoring former Rocky Mountain News reporters Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt, hear public comment on a proposed flavored tobacco ban and the future of the Street Engagement Team (SET), debate and vote on several amendments to the mayor's proposed 2025 budget, and pass a zoning change at 10353 East Mississippi Avenue. Most budget amendments failed due to fiscal concerns and lack of administration support. Proclamation - Council adopted Proclamation 24-1584 recognizing Kevin Flynn and Gary Gerhardt for their investigative reporting on white nationalism and the murder of Alan Berg, which inspired the film "The Order." The proclamation passed unanimously with 12 ayes. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers opposed a proposed flavored tobacco ban, citing economic harm to local businesses, loss of tax revenue (over $27 million at risk), and increased black market activity. Andrew Krieger, Javier Castanon, Ress Cohen, and Mary Zarmak (Smoker Friendly) voiced opposition. - Therese Howard and Amy Beck supported moving the SET team from the Department of Safety to the Department of Housing Stability (HOST), arguing it would improve outreach and reduce enforcement-focused responses. - Art Wei raised concerns about the ban's impact on public health and potential police interactions. - Nathan Edelson discussed anti-Semitic vandalism at City of Carmel Park and criticized his district councilmember's response. - Julie Stephens urged full funding for Vision Zero and Safe Routes to School after a student was hit by a driver. Discussion Items - SET Team Amendment (CB 1567, Amendment 4): Councilmember Parady proposed moving the SET team to HOST. After debate on enforcement vs. outreach roles, the amendment failed 5-8. - Police Academy Funding (CB 1573, Amendment 10): Parady proposed cutting $3.2 million for a third police academy in 2025, citing concerns about academy culture and response times. The administration argued it would worsen response times. Failed 3-10. - STAR Program Expansion (CB 1572, Amendment 5): Parady withdrew her amendment after the mayor's office agreed to fund the expansion once an Urban Institute study is complete. - Library HVAC Upgrades (CB 1575, Amendment 1): Lewis, Parady, and Gonzalez Gutierrez proposed $3 million from CASR funds for HVAC at four libraries with frequent closures. Opponents noted the funds were already allocated for energy compliance projects. Failed 3-9. - Safe RV Parking (CB 1577, Amendment 3): Lewis proposed $2.5 million for land acquisition and $250,000 operations for a safe RV parking site. Concerns over lack of identified site and cost. Failed 3-9. - Behavioral Health at All-In Mile High Sites (CB 1576, Amendment 2): Proposed $500,000 for four FTEs at DDPHE. Questions about duplication with upcoming contracts. Failed 5-7. - Denver Basic Income Project (CB 1578, Amendment 4): Proposed $2.5 million from reserves. Debate over program effectiveness and fiscal impact. Ended in a 6-6 tie (fails). - Digital Equity (CB 1587, Amendment 3): Gonzalez Gutierrez proposed $233,000 from Technology Services for devices and a program manager. OSEI director said devices could be obtained through partnerships. Failed 3-7. - Other amendments were withdrawn or not considered. Key Outcomes - Proclamation 24-1584 adopted (12 ayes). - All budget amendments failed except those withdrawn. - Council Bill 24-1209 (rezoning at 10353 East Mississippi Avenue) passed (10 ayes) after a public hearing, allowing development with use restrictions. - Meeting adjourned after approximately four hours.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. for a regular session that included a proclamation honoring journalists, consideration of twelve amendments to the Mayor’s Proposed 2025 Budget, and a public hearing on a zoning change. All proposed budget amendments either failed or were withdrawn. The meeting also featured a block vote approving numerous resolutions and ordinances, and the adoption of a zoning map amendment. Consent Calendar - Approved a consent calendar of over 30 resolutions and ordinances, including: amendatory agreements for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, painting, restoration, and sewer services; grant agreements for the Opportunity Now grant ($1,538,593), healthy food access programs (EKAR, Jovial Concepts, Urban Peak, Urban Symbiosis), and microtransit services ($5,991,681); affordable housing funding (bonds up to $29,000,000 for 4340 South Monaco Street, $1,020,000 for 1350 N. Logan Street, $810,365 for 1135 Logan Street); and appointments to the Commission on Aging and Asian American Pacific Islander Commission. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on Council Bill 24-1209 (Zoning Change at 10353 East Mississippi Avenue): - Tim Dolander (Red Mountain Group) presented plans for a dental office, coffee shop, and pet vet; noted negotiations with the neighborhood and a CCNR restricting uses to two stories. - Eric White (Belco Credit Union) expressed support for the development. - Keith Singer (Rangeview RNO) thanked council and the developer for working with the community. - Jesse Parris (candidate for HD8) asked about AMI levels, traffic studies, and community benefits agreements. - Roger Miller (Rangeview RNO president) detailed the history of fighting inappropriate developments and asked for approval. - Michelle Palmquist (Rangeview RNO vice president) reported a formal poll showing 44 support, 1 oppose, 1 abstain; stated the RNO supports the rezoning with recorded use restrictions. Discussion Items - Proclamation 24-1584: Honored former reporters Kevin Flynn (now councilmember) and Gary Gerhardt for their book The Silent Brotherhood about white nationalism and the Alan Berg murder. Councilmembers Kashmann and Watson sponsored. Kevin Flynn and Gary’s widow, Nancy Gerhardt, spoke. Adopted 12-0. - Budget Amendments (12 items): - Councilmember Parady proposed five amendments: - 1565 (Transfer Aid Center from ONS to DDPHE): Failed 5-8. - 1567 (Transfer Street Engagement Team to HOST): Failed 5-8. - 1573 (Reduce police academy funding by $3.2M): Failed 3-10. - 1572 (Additional $500K for STAR program): Withdrawn after Mayor’s office agreed to a supplemental. - (One further amendment withdrawn.) - Councilmembers Lewis, Parady, and Gonzalez-Gutierrez co-sponsored four amendments: - 1575 ($3M for library HVAC upgrades): Failed 3-9. - 1576 ($500K and 4 FTEs for behavioral health at All In Mile High sites): Failed 5-7. - 1577 ($2.5M for safe RV parking acquisition and $250K operations): Failed 3-9. - 1578 ($2.5M for Denver Basic Income Project from fund balance): Failed 6-6 (tie). - Councilmember Gonzalez-Gutierrez sponsored three amendments: - 1579 (Public health investigator): Withdrawn after agreement with Mayor’s office for $400K and two FTEs. - 1580 (Withdrawn). - 1587 ($233K for digital equity program): Failed 7-4. - Throughout, extensive debate occurred on public health vs. enforcement approaches, fund balance concerns, and program effectiveness. - Block Vote: Councilmember Gonzalez-Gutierrez moved adoption of resolutions and final passage of bills on the consent agenda. Passed 11-0. - Council Bill 24-1209 (Final Consideration): After the public hearing, Councilmember Sawyer moved final passage. Passed 10-0. Key Outcomes - Proclamation 24-1584 adopted unanimously (12-0). - Mayor’s Proposed 2025 Budget passed as originally submitted; all amendments failed or were withdrawn. The final budget includes $1.538 million for electric vehicle training, $5.991 million for microtransit, $29 million in multifamily housing bonds, and $1.295 million for affordable housing rehabilitation. - Minutes of October 28, 2024, approved. - Bills for introduction ordered published. - Council Bill 24-1209 (rezoning 10353 East Mississippi Avenue from B-1 to S-MX-3) passed 10-0, with recorded use restrictions. - Pre-adjournment announcement: Required public hearings on December 2, 2024, for zoning cases 24-1373 (3719 North Wolff Street) and 24-1448 (1079 South Hooker Street). Protests must be filed by noon on November 25, 2024.

This weekly session of the mayor and Denver City Council began with introductions and announcements, followed by a motion to enter executive session. The meeting was brief, with no public comments or discussion items beyond voter reminders and a community event announcement. Announcements - Council members urged voters to participate in the upcoming election (November 5, 2024), noting the ballot is longer than usual. Mail-in deadline had passed as of October 28; voters were directed to drop off ballots at voter service centers by 7:00 PM on Election Day. Councilman Hines added that same-day voter registration is available in person. - Council President announced a Dia de los Muertos celebration at La Rasa Park on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The event includes a memorial garden dedication at 39th and Shoshone, Aztec dancers, food, and ofrendas, hosted in collaboration with Servicios and Nita Gonzalez. Executive Session - The council voted unanimously to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 2-34-A-8 for discussion of investigation or discipline proceedings regarding alleged violations of personnel rules and/or department policies. A two-thirds vote of members present was required and obtained. Key Outcomes - Motion to Enter Executive Session: Approved unanimously (no opposition). The council then proceeded to closed session.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, October 28, 2024, at 3:30 PM for a regular session that included the approval of consent items, four proclamations, and two required public hearings – one on a zoning change for 401 North Delaware Street in Baker and the other on the Mayor's Proposed 2025 Budget. The evening session featured extensive public testimony on the budget, with over 50 speakers addressing homelessness, enforcement, guaranteed income, and transportation funding. The meeting adjourned at 8:38 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes of October 21, 2024 (24-1503) approved. - Resolutions (en bloc, 12-0 vote, with Councilmember Lewis absent): - 24-1346 through 24-1353: Concession agreement extensions for Quiznos, Hotch Potch Snack Shoppe, Villa Pizza, McDonald's (multiple), Mod Market, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory at Denver International Airport (DIA) as part of the Excellence in Service (EIS) Program. - 24-1354: Amendment with Street Source Marketing & Communications, LLC adding $9,700,000 (new total $14,700,000) for joint marketing at DIA. - 24-1355 through 24-1359: Amendments with FCI Constructors, Hensel Phelps, Milender White, PCL Construction, Turner Construction each adding $10,000,000 (new total $30,000,000) for on-call construction at DIA. - 24-1360: Contract with Alstom Transport USA, Inc. for $288,709,933.55 to operate and maintain the Automated Guideway Transit System at DIA through 2031. - 24-1378: Amendment with Keller Rohrback LLP to continue as special counsel for opioid multi-district litigation through 2026. - 24-1380: Resolution setting a public hearing on December 2, 2024 for exclusion from Colfax Mayfair Business Improvement District. - 24-1386: Appointment of Temi Osifodunrin to the Human Rights and Community Partnerships Advisory Board. - 24-1240: Grant from Colorado Division of Criminal Justice for $869,384 for East Colfax Safer Streets Collaborative (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design). - 24-1363: Dedicating parcel as North Tennyson Street right-of-way (District 3). - 24-1364: Amendment with SP Plus Corporation adding $4,500,000 (new total $9,500,000) to manage seven parking lots and three garages in District 9. - 24-1365, 24-1366: Contracts with U.S. Engineering Construction and Murphy Company for $15,000,000 each for citywide mechanical services. - 24-1374: Contract with Village Exchange Center, Inc. for $820,511 to facilitate food distribution for newcomers. - 24-1371: Dedicating a public alley in District 1. - Bills for Final Consideration (en bloc, 12-0 vote): - 24-1334: Authority to acquire property for Mill Levy 20 Signals Project (Monaco: Magnolia to Mexico) in District 6. - 24-1335: Authority to acquire property for Sanderson Gulch Trail Multi-Modal Safety Improvement Project in District 7. - 24-1150: Discontinuing Human Services Citizen Review Panel (state law compliance). - 24-1277: Amendment with Denver Health and Hospital Authority for WIC services under Healthy Food for Denver's Kids Initiative. - 24-1288: Amendment with Regents of University of Colorado adding $291,289.28 (new total $759,081.50) for healthy food programs. - 24-1305: Agreement with Denver Health for $999,900 to coordinate care for homeless persons connecting to Roads to Recovery project. - 24-1296: Contract with Mile High Flood District for $2,500,000 for Weir Gulch drainage design (District 3). Public Comments & Testimony - Proclamation 24-1504 (Afterschool Programs): Lakeisha Hodge (Struggle of Love Foundation) and parent Sierra Don expressed gratitude for out-of-school-time programs, noting 90% of youth served are eligible for free/reduced lunch, and 720 hours of programming annually. - Proclamation 24-1505 (Spina Bifida Awareness): Nan Alonso (Executive Director, Spina Bifida Association of Colorado) highlighted that approximately 1,700 Coloradans live with spina bifida, and the association is the only resource in the state. - Proclamation 24-1506 (Dale Coski): Family and colleagues (Chief Thomas, James Marseille, Aisha Rousseau, Lori Kaczynski) shared memories of her advocacy for disability rights, including creation of the Denver Disability Parking Enforcement Program, which became a national model. - Proclamation 24-1508 (Day of the Black Girl): Dr. Plashawn McCune, youth board members, and parent Veronica Crespin Palmer spoke about the African American Young Ladies Summit (AAYLS) program, describing it as a safe space for Black girls. Youth speakers shared personal experiences of bullying and loss, emphasizing the program’s transformative impact. - Public Hearing on Mayor's 2025 Budget (54 speakers): The majority of speakers urged Council to defund the Street Enforcement Team (SET) and transfer funds to the Department of Housing Stability (HOST), citing data that in 2023 SET made 2,134 contacts with only 41 instances of resource provision (1.9%). Speakers also advocated for funding the Denver Basic Income Project ($2.5 million), the STAR program (additional $650,000), rental assistance (increase to $25 million), and adding residential health inspectors. Some speakers, including business owners and residents, testified in support of SET, saying it improved safety and provided compassionate outreach. A few speakers also addressed transportation funding, climate protection fund, and affordable housing. Discussion Items - Bill 24-1376 (Downtown Development Authority fund): Councilmember Sawyer moved to postpone to November 12, 2024, to avoid confusion with election ballot measures. Motion passed 12-0. - Bill 24-1370 (Manufactured Home Community rezoning): Councilmember Alvidrez initially moved to postpone one week but withdrew the motion; the bill was ordered published with a public hearing set for November 25, 2024. - Public Hearing 24-1093 (Rezoning 401 N Delaware Street, Baker): Staff report by Rob Haig (CPD); applicant Bruce O’Donnell and owner Amanda Precourt spoke in favor, noting 13 community meetings and a Good Neighbor Agreement. One speaker, Jesse Parris, opposed, citing lack of AMI level and traffic study. Council voted 13-0 to approve the rezoning from U-RH-2.5 to U-MX-2X. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (12-0). - All resolutions and bills on final consideration passed en bloc (12-0, with Lewis absent for initial vote; later votes included Lewis). - Proclamations adopted: - 24-1504 (Afterschool) – 12-0. - 24-1505 (Spina Bifida Awareness) – 12-0. - 24-1506 (Dale Coski) – 13-0. - 24-1508 (Day of the Black Girl) – 13-0. - Bill 24-1376 postponed to November 12, 2024 (12-0). - Bill 24-1093 (zoning change) approved 13-0. - Mayor's 2025 Budget: Public hearing held; no vote taken. Council will consider amendments on November 4, 2024; mayor may accept or veto by November 8; final adoption (or override) on November 12, 2024. - Next steps: Council announced a required public hearing on November 25, 2024 for the Manufactured Home Community zone district (Bill 24-1369) and related rezoning (Bill 24-1370). Protests for 24-1370 must be filed by noon on November 18, 2024.

This morning, the Mayor and Denver City Council received a detailed presentation from Shannon Dennison, Director of Denver Mountain Parks, on the history, operations, and future priorities of the city's mountain park system. The briefing covered the system's century-old legacy, current assets, conservation efforts, and ongoing challenges around equitable access. Council members shared announcements, asked questions, and offered feedback on indigenous plant gathering, transportation barriers, trail accessibility, and bison repatriation. Announcements - Councilman Watson announced a community discussion on Friday, October 25, from 5–7 p.m. at Johnson Recreation Center (4800 Race Street) regarding a proposed data center in the Globeville neighborhood. - Council President (District 3) announced a Tennyson Halloween crawl at Fire Station 17 (4500 Tennyson Street) this Saturday, with firefighters and ballot issue discussions. - Councilwoman Sawyer listed weekend Halloween events in District 5, including a DPD 3 Halloween carnival, Hilltop Halloween parade, and Montclair Halloween extravaganza. - Councilman Hines announced “De los Muertos” celebration at Civic Center Park on Saturday, October 26, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Presentation: Denver Mountain Parks System Shannon Dennison, Director of Denver Mountain Parks, presented an overview of the system, emphasizing its unique history and value. Key points: - The Denver Mountain Parks system was created in 1912, four years before the National Park Service, making it the oldest municipal mountain park system in the U.S. - It comprises 46 parks and conservation areas spanning 5 counties (Clear Creek, Douglas, Gilpin, Jefferson, Grand) and nearly 15,000 acres—67% of all Denver Parks and Recreation land. - Notable parks include Genesee (first park, home to a conservation bison herd), Summit Lake Park (highest city park in the U.S., a National Natural Landmark with rare alpine plants), Red Rocks Amphitheatre (National Historic Landmark, voted best concert venue 10 times), and Echo Lake Park. - The system manages 119 facilities, 21 miles of road, 75 miles of trails, 19 bridges, 341 cultural resources, and 76 vehicles. - Conservation initiatives include bison herd management (117 bison returned to 5 states' tribal governments/nonprofits since 2020), reintroduction of the rainbow scarab dung beetle with Denver Zoo, forest health and wildfire mitigation, and historic preservation (e.g., Red Rocks CCC camp). - Environmental education programs launched in 2023 attracted over 800 participants in the first year, including bison tours, toddler treks, and birding. - A 2003 community survey found that 78% of Denver residents consider the mountain park system important. Discussion and Questions - Councilman Parady thanked the team and asked about indigenous access to the parks for gathering medicines. Dennison noted that Tall Bull Memorial Council members are permitted to harvest traditional plants across the system, but others are not currently allowed. Councilman Hines requested expanding access to all indigenous community members. Mayor Johnson and Director Clark committed to exploring a policy change that would require City Council approval. - Councilman Watson praised the presentation and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve transportation access from Denver to the mountain parks, particularly Red Rocks, describing a year-long series of meetings with Jefferson County, Golden, and Morrison. He indicated a pilot proposal would be brought to Council soon and expressed interest in full partnership. - Councilwoman Campbell shared personal connections to Genesee Park and asked about cultivating land donations. Director Clark clarified that current acquisition focus is on closing gaps in urban park access (10-minute walk), but strategic mountain park additions are considered; recent acquisitions include Axton Ranch (donated, 450 acres near Gross Reservoir) and Tobalo (connecting trails). - Councilwoman Torres thanked the team for the bison repatriation program, recalling the urgency of moving pregnant bison during the pandemic. She noted the personal significance of free mountain access for low-income families and requested continued focus on equity. - Councilman Hines asked about trails accessible for people with disabilities. Dennison confirmed no such list exists but agreed it is a good idea. He noted Visit Denver is developing marketing materials for travelers with disabilities and invited collaboration. - Mayor Johnson concluded by expressing the administration's long-term vision for equitable access to the mountain parks, calling it a “unique historic opportunity.” Director Clark emphasized the importance of consistent Denver park signage to help residents feel welcome and know the parks are theirs. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - Director Clark and Mayor Johnson will work with Councilman Hines and Visit Denver to create a list of accessible trails and features in the mountain parks. - The City will explore expanding indigenous plant gathering policies beyond Tall Bull Memorial Council members, requiring future City Council action. - Transportation access proposals, including a pilot for Red Rocks, will be developed and presented to City Council in the coming months. - The bison repatriation program will continue; future donation events will be communicated to Council members. - A ribbon-cutting for the new medicine wheel garden at Daniels Park is planned for spring 2025. - Environmental education programs will expand with continued support from partners like Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance and Denver Mountain Parks Foundation.

This weekly session of the mayor and Denver City Council featured a presentation from Denver International Airport (DEN) on the Center of Equity and Excellence in Aviation (CIA), followed by Q&A and announcements from council members. The meeting took place on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. Announcements - Councilmember Paul Cash (District 6) announced the Broadway Halloween parade on Saturday at 6 p.m. and a virtual academy on roadway safety at 6:30 p.m. that evening. - Councilmember Matt Watson announced a delegation from Austin, Texas focusing on homelessness resolution visiting the Dream Center, and a ballot preview event in Globeville on Thursday, October 17 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at KOMAL Heritage Food Incubator. - Councilmember Serena Gonzalez Buquerez announced a similar ballot discussion event at Brother Jeff Cultural Center on October 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. Presentation: Center of Equity and Excellence in Aviation (CIA) Denver International Airport Chief of Staff Maria Meliandes presented an update on the CIA, which is both a physical space (under construction, nearing 50% completion, expected by 2026) and a suite of programs launched in 2022. The presentation covered three main areas: - Business Development Training Academy (BDTA): A nine-week program for minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses, with 100/200/300 level courses. Since 2022, 32 student businesses had graduated; in September 2024, the largest cohort graduated 66 businesses. Tracks include concessionaires and AEC (architecture, engineering, construction). - Career Pathways: 15 workforce development programs, including: - DEN Academy: Summer program for 95 high school students each year. - Internship program: 28 annual interns (high school and college) completing 1,500 hours with a 10-week research project. - New Heights program (with Bayod Enterprises): 14-week program for justice-impacted individuals; 70 graduates with a 57% placement rate. - Leadership DEN: 7-month leadership academy; 81 employees served since 2022. - Eno Air Max program: First-of-its-kind knowledge exchange with other airports (Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia). - Research and Innovation: Focus on mega trends, innovation learning, and piloting. An innovation council was launched in 2024. Meliandes also noted that CIA is part of DEN's Vision 100 strategic plan to prepare for 100 million annual passengers (up from 78 million in 2023 and an anticipated 82 million in 2024). A child care feasibility study is underway in three phases, with a small facility planned within the physical CIA space, and the study aims to address the broader child care desert. Discussion and Q&A - Councilmember Amanda Sanval (District 1) asked how to ensure access for the most in-need residents from the west side. Meliandes responded that the team engages with community advisory committees and shares information via website and council. - Councilmember Manuel Metal Campbell (At-Large) asked about procurement training for small businesses and partnerships with higher education. Meliandes confirmed that procurement professionals are involved in BDTA, and that the research and innovation team works with CU Denver and other local universities. Campbell also suggested collaboration with Metro State's aviation program. - Councilmember Matt Watson inquired about DEN's community-facing partnerships with nonprofits. Meliandes explained that corporate responsibility is handled by the government affairs team, but there is collaboration with the CIA team. - Watson also asked about the child care study's progress. Meliandes stated that the team is still in the assessment phase, forming an advisory committee that includes council members, airline partners, and employers, with no data yet to share. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken; the presentation was informational. - Next steps: Continued development of CIA programming and physical space, with completion expected in 2026. The child care feasibility study will proceed with advisory committee engagement. Council members expressed interest in broader outreach and collaboration with local educational institutions.