Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

The Denver City Council convened on October 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM to address routine approvals, proclamations, and significant contract resolutions. The meeting included a presentation on the Denver Colfax Marathon, adoption of two proclamations, a failed purchase agreement for a reentry facility, and approval of numerous contracts and agreements via a block vote. All 13 council members were present, with Councilmember Lewis attending virtually.

The mayor and Denver City Council convened on October 8, 2024, for a briefing from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) on the Denver Connector microtransit program. The session included an overview of existing services in North Denver and the Northeast (Montbello/GES), performance statistics, and plans to launch a new West Side service zone by the end of 2024. Council members discussed equity, service gaps, community engagement, wait times, and long-term sustainability. No formal votes were taken; the briefing was informational. Announcements - Councilmember Alvidras announced the Public Health and Safety Active Collective Trauma Summit on October 10–11, recognizing healers and mental health workers. - Councilmember from District 6 announced a virtual District 6 Academy on October 15 focusing on street safety, with participation from DOTI, Police Chief Ron Thomas, Denver Streets Partnership, and Transportation Solutions. - Councilmember Sawyer coordinated a citywide "Celebrity Crossing Guard" event on October 9 at various elementary schools to raise awareness about school zone safety. Multiple council members shared the schools where they would participate. Discussion Items - Denver Connector Program Briefing (presented by Amy Ford, DOTI; Justin Beckley, DOTI Planning Supervisor; David Krutzinger, Transit Director) - The program is a free, on-demand microtransit service operating within defined neighborhoods to fill gaps in RTD fixed-route transit. Rides can be booked via a phone app or call center. Trips are shared and typically under 10 minutes. - Existing services: - North Denver zone: 60,000 trips since inception; average wait times 20 minutes; 2–4 vehicles in operation. - Northeast zone (Montbello/GES): 161,000 trips since inception; 2–4 vehicles; high usage noted at schools and the Montbello Recreation Center. - West Side launch: Planned for December 2024. Two service zone alternatives under consideration: a smaller zone with lower wait times (serving central Westside) and a larger zone including Ruby Hill and Westwood but with slightly higher wait times. The final zone will be decided after a focus group meeting in late October. The West Side is identified as an equity priority area with limited transit access. - RTD grant funding: An Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with RTD provides $1.5 million over three years ($300,000 in 2024 for a half-year, then $600,000 per year in 2025 and 2026) to supplement city special revenue funds. The city’s total budget for the three service zones is $2 million per year for 2025–2026. The IGA requires that 50% of trips have a response time under 30 minutes. - Cost efficiency: Per-ride cost is approximately $10, which is low compared to the industry average of $20–30 for microtransit. Projected annual ridership for 2025: approximately 150,000 trips across all zones. - Vehicle fleet: A third of vehicles are fully electric, a third are hybrid, and larger vehicles are gas-powered. DOTI is working to increase electric capacity. - Council questions and comments: - Councilmember Torres: Expressed strong support, noting the program aligns with DOTI’s mission to fill transit gaps. Asked about mid-year adjustments to service zones; confirmed modifications are possible after six months of data. Expressed desire to eventually include all of Westwood and suggested exploring a community-owned driver cooperative model for future implementation. - Councilmember Alvidras: Raised concerns about community engagement—only one focus group meeting occurred, and some constituents did not receive the link. Questioned the exclusion of Overland and Ruby Hill. Noted the Westside is a food desert and asked about grocery store access (currently a Safeway is accessible via the proposed zone; Walmart at Evans is not due to distance). Inquired about inclusion of the animal shelter (not planned). - Councilmember Parody: Requested a follow-up analysis of other city areas for potential connector expansion, including circulator or loop models connecting to RTD. - Councilmember Romero-Campbell: Asked about demographic data of riders; learned that in Montbello, youth are the primary users (school trips), and in North Denver, trips to Walmart and apartment complexes are common. DOTI is conducting a rider survey. - Councilmember Watson: Acknowledged the service’s value in Gateway/Green Valley Ranch. Asked about load balancing and wait times—DOTI uses shared trips and dynamic scheduling. Requested data sharing with his office to help manage community expectations. Mentioned interest in a Five Points connector. - Council President: Suggested expanding service to connect neighborhoods to Auraria Campus, noting that current RTD passes are underutilized and that a connector could boost downtown economic activity. Also noted that she voted for the DOTI restructuring to enable such municipal transit initiatives. - Councilmember Lewis: Asked about capacity in existing zones—DOTI will add one vehicle in Montbello/GES to reduce wait times. Queried about advocating RTD for dedicated shopper routes; DOTI is in ongoing discussions with RTD about service improvements. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made; the briefing was for informational purposes and to seek council input. - The West Side connector launch timeline remains: final focus group in late October, transition to preparation in November, and service launch in December 2024. - DOTI will consider council feedback on the service zone alternatives (e.g., inclusion of Ruby Hill, focus on grocery access) in its final planning. - The RTD grant agreements (IGAs) are expected to be executed to secure funding for existing and new services. - Councilmembers will receive follow-up data on rider demographics and a list of analyzed areas for potential future expansion.

The Mayor and Denver City Council met on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, for a weekly session that included announcements and a detailed briefing on the Denver Connector microtransit program. The meeting focused on the program's performance, expansion plans, and two proposed intergovernmental agreements with the Regional Transportation District (RTD) to fund existing and new service zones. Council members raised questions about equity, coverage areas, wait times, and sustainability. Announcements - Councilman Alvidas announced the Public Health Republic Safety Active Collective Trauma Summit on Thursday and Friday, October 10-11, recognizing healers and mental health workers. - Councilman Cashman announced a virtual District Six Academy on October 15, focusing on street safety, with speakers from TOD, Police Chief Ron Thomas, Denver Streets Partnership, and Transportation Solutions. - Councilmember Sorscher coordinated a "celebrity crossing guard" event for the next morning, with multiple council members participating at schools across the city including Montclair Elementary, Cheltenham Elementary, Colfax Elementary, Steel Elementary, Brown Elementary, Samuels Elementary, Whittier K-8, Valverde Elementary, and Garden Place. - Councilmember Apple announced an open house at Thomas Jefferson High School on Wednesday, October 16, from 6-7:30 p.m. for residents to learn about city projects in Southeast Denver. Discussion Items - Denver Connector Microtransit Briefing: Amy Ford (Dottie) introduced the briefing, emphasizing the program's role in affordable transportation and sustainability goals. Justin Begley (Planning Supervisor, Dottie) and David Kretzinger (Transit Director, Dottie) presented. - What is the Denver Connector? A free, app- or call-in-based microtransit service filling gaps in RTD fixed-route coverage, operating seven days a week (weekdays only? Not explicitly stated, but typical schedule mentioned) with shared rides and 20-minute average wait times. - Existing Service Zones: North Denver (since 2021) and Northeast (Montbello-Gateway and Green Valley Ranch). Combined ridership: 60,000 trips in North Denver, 161,000 trips in Northeast since inception. Peak vehicles: 2-4 per zone. - Performance: Average 2-3 passengers per hour, exceeding typical microtransit benchmarks. Most popular destinations: Walmart, Montbello Rec Center (after-school use), and Walmart in North Denver. Cost per ride $10, lower than many comparable services (typically $20-30). - Funding: Two RTD IGAs request council approval to accept $300,000 (first IGA) and $1.5 million over three years (second IGA) to supplement city funds. Cost share: 20% RTD, 80% Denver. Total budget for all three zones in 2025: $2 million, with RTD contributing $600,000 per year for each zone. - West Side Expansion: Proposed new service zone covering parts of Westwood and Ruby Hill (two alternatives under consideration). Launch targeted for December 2024. Zone designed to provide access to food, medical, schools, parks, and libraries. Challenges include distance to grocery stores (food desert) and balancing wait times. - Electrification: About one-third of fleet is electric, one-third hybrid, rest gas. Preference for electric but operational constraints limit full transition. Key Questions & Responses - Council Torres: Asked about fine-tuning zones based on usage data and long-term sustainability of RTD funding. David confirmed RTD grants are renewed every three years; current funding covers through 2026. Also inquired about community-owned driver co-ops; staff expressed interest in exploring models. - Council Alvidres: Raised concerns about exclusion of Overland and parts of Westwood, and noted the existing Platte Valley Flex Ride service. Justin explained that distance prevents inclusion without degrading service, but they will monitor. Also noted Ruby Hill exclusion; Justin said they may revisit. Councilwoman Alvidres highlighted food desert status and need for grocery access. - Council Parody: Requested analysis of other city areas and a potential circulator model connecting RTD. Staff agreed to follow up. - Council Bruton: Asked about user demographics and number of vehicles. Justin noted highest users: youth (especially to schools and rec centers) and adults (to Walmart). Vehicles: 2-4 per zone depending on time. - Council Watson: Raised wait time increases in GES and asked about load balancing. Justin described shared trips to improve efficiency. Council Watson also expressed interest in a Five Points connector and asked for survey data sharing. - Council President: Discussed potential for connector to serve Auraria Campus and downtown, noting that many students do not use RTD passes due to access barriers. - Council Lewis: Asked about grocery store access (Safeway vs. Walmart), animal shelter exclusion, and whether capacity constraints in existing zones might be exacerbated by expansion. David explained that RTD's grant structure required simultaneous application for both existing and new service. Staff are prioritizing service quality. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken during the briefing; it was an informational session. Council members expressed general support for the program and its expansion. - The two RTD IGAs were presented for council consideration; no action recorded. - Staff will provide follow-up data on user demographics and explore co-op models, additional service area analyses, and potential Five Points connector discussions. - The West Side service zone is expected to be finalized after a focus group meeting in late October, with launch in December 2024.

The Denver City Council met on October 7, 2024, with all 13 members present. The meeting opened with a land acknowledgement and approval of the September 30th minutes. Councilmembers made announcements about upcoming events, including celebrity crossing guard participation, community cleanups, and a virtual safety academy. A presentation recognized the Colfax Marathon's community impact, and two proclamations were adopted honoring the Chicano movement and Servicios de la Raza. One resolution failed while a consent block passed. Consent Calendar - Minutes from September 30, 2024, approved without correction. - A block of resolutions and bills on final consideration was adopted 13–0, including Resolution 24‑1344 (liability claim settlement). Councilmember Lewis had previously called out that resolution, noting that the $95,000 settlement brought the total 2024 city settlement expenditures to $4,978,411.29. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard during the formal meeting. A general public comment session was scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. Presentation - Denver Colfax Marathon Government Relay: Andrea Dowdy, representing the Colfax Marathon, presented. She noted the marathon is in its 18th year, with 25,000 runners in 2024 and an economic impact of approximately $4 million. It is a top‑25 marathon weekend in the U.S. and the largest in the Rocky Mountain region. Over the last five years, participating charities raised more than $3 million, and the marathon gives $150,000 annually to charity. City and Denver Public Schools teams won multiple awards; the Denver Fire Department team earned the brass nozzle award for the fifth consecutive year. Checks were presented to the Denver Fire Department Foundation and Sobriety House. Proclamations - Proclamation 24‑1237: Honoring Rudolfo “Corky” Gonzalez and the legacy of the Chicano movement. Co‑sponsored by Councilmembers Gonzalez Gutierrez (granddaughter of Corky Gonzalez) and Alvidres, the proclamation recognized his work founding the Crusade for Justice, his poem “Yo Soy Joaquin,” and the movement’s impact on civil rights and cultural pride. Several councilmembers spoke, highlighting their own connections to the Gonzalez family and the movement. The proclamation was adopted 13–0. - Proclamation 24‑1345: Honoring Servicios de la Raza in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month. The proclamation noted that 199,460 Denverites identify as Hispanic/Latino and that the organization served 93,643 individuals last fiscal year, with 94% of its 118 staff identifying as Latino/Hispanic/Chicano/Indigenous. CEO Rudy Gonzalez accepted, describing the organization’s growth from near dissolution to the largest Chicano‑founded grassroots nonprofit in Colorado. The proclamation passed 13–0. Discussion Items - Resolution 24‑1164: Approving a purchase and sale agreement for a residential re‑entry facility at 5070 West 44th Avenue. Councilmember Torres questioned Director of Real Estate Lisa Lumley, asking whether the city would proceed if the purchase price were not supported by an appraisal. Lumley replied “maybe” and stated that in this instance the appraisal did not meet criteria, but the city’s lease (through June 2034) would remain in effect regardless of the sale. The mayor’s office requested a “no” vote. The resolution failed with 0 ayes and 11 nays. Key Outcomes - Proclamation 24‑1237 adopted 13–0. - Proclamation 24‑1345 adopted 13–0. - Resolution 24‑1164 (re‑entry facility purchase) failed 0–11. - Consent block (including Resolution 24‑1344 and multiple other items) adopted 13–0. - A public hearing on Council Bill 24‑1209 (zoning change for 10353 East Mississippi Avenue) was scheduled for Monday, November 4, 2024, with protests due by October 28, 2024.

The Denver City Council and Mayor met on October 1, 2024, for a weekly session. The meeting included announcements from council members, an update on the recent Den AI Summit, and a motion to enter executive session to discuss ongoing litigation. Announcements - Councilman Catherine wished a happy 100th birthday to former President Jimmy Carter. - Councilwoman Parady announced a community forum on great government and permitting at Glenarm Breck Center (5:00–6:30 p.m.) that evening. - Councilman Hines announced the Colfax BRT groundbreaking on Friday and a town hall on Thursday (5:30 p.m., Zoom) to discuss the residential parking permit program. - Council President announced a three-day tribal convening this week, with events at Daniels Park, Chief Hosa Lodge, and Auraria Campus, aimed at developing relationships with indigenous tribes. Discussion Items Den AI Summit Update Mayor provided an overview of the inaugural Den AI Summit held the previous week. The summit brought together public entities, private sector innovators, and showcased 10 startup companies; more than 50% of founders were people of color and/or women. Highlighted companies included: - CivCheck: AI to accelerate permitting. - RITR: tools for heat pump installation. - Hazel: technology to expedite government procurement. - Pad Split: platform for renting out rooms to increase affordability. - Boltwise: AI to source hardware parts to avoid project delays. Councilman Hines asked about Colorado’s 2024 AI bill and its potential unintended consequences. Mayor noted the bill’s sponsors have committed to revisions, and no requirements take effect until 2026. Councilwoman Parady expressed concerns about AI use in legal contexts (e.g., asylum paperwork), the need for governance and guardrails, climate impacts from increased data center energy use, and recommended consulting the Open Data Institute (ODI). Mayor responded that no asylum tool exists and no regulation is planned at the city level; the city is focused on partnerships and efficiency. He noted that a Denver-based startup is capturing methane from landfills to power data centers, potentially creating climate wins. He offered to consider an executive order on AI provider controls but saw no immediate need, preferring to evaluate contracts case by case. Key Outcomes - Motion to move into executive session (pursuant to DRMC 234A3 and 6) to discuss ongoing litigation was approved unanimously.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, September 30, 2024, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included council announcements, the adoption of two proclamations (supporting gig economy workers and recognizing Blood Cancer Awareness Month), approval of numerous resolutions and bills en bloc, introduction of new zoning legislation, and public hearings on two bills for final consideration: a zoning change at 4050 North Colorado Boulevard and amendments to the West Globeville Metropolitan District service plans. All 13 council members were present. Consent Calendar - Resolutions adopted en bloc (13-0): - 24-1266 & 24-1267: Liability claim settlements totaling $30,000 for cases involving the Denver Public Library (Antonio Estrada-Barda et al. v. Melvin Fubler and City/County of Denver). - 24-1119: Amendatory agreement with Rider Kafer, P.C. for legal defense (name change from Morgan Rider Riter Tsai P.C.). - 24-1162: Second amendatory agreement with Kraemer North America, LLC (extending preconstruction services for Colfax BRT project through 2-28-2025, no cost change). - 24-1175: Amendatory agreement with Stanley Consultants, Inc. (adding $195,298.37 for a new total of $1,019,845.73 to reconstruct six traffic signals along Alameda Avenue, new end date 10-12-2026). - 24-1176: First amendatory agreement with Stantec Architecture, Inc. (adding $338,524 for a new total of $1,043,512 for design services for the 5280 Trail on 21st Street, new end date 8-29-2025). - 24-1181: Amendatory agreement with University System of New Hampshire (adding $24,072 for a new total of $623,174 for START program consultation/training, new end date 6-30-2025). - 24-1205 & 24-1206: Fourth and fifth amendatory agreements with Securus Technologies, LLC (extending phone services and video visitation/tablets for incarcerated individuals at Denver County Jail and Downtown Detention Center through 3-31-2025; no cost increase for phone services; $210,000 added for video/tablets, new total $2,242,000). - 24-1268: Liability claim settlement of $125,000 (Scott Carey v. Mark Matthews, involving Denver Police Department). - 24-1269: Liability claim settlement of $15,000 (Humberto Quintero claim from August 9, 2021, involving Denver Police Department). - 24-1163: Contract with JV LoDo Denargo LLC (city funding up to $3,000,000 to build a public park in Denargo Market redevelopment, Council District 9). - 24-1174: Dedication of a parcel of land as a public alley bounded by West 40th Avenue, North Fox Street, West 39th Avenue, and North Galapago Street (Council District 9). - Resolution 24-1164 (purchase agreement for residential reentry facility at 570 West 44th Avenue, $26,200,000) was called out by Councilmember Sawyer and postponed for one week to October 7, 2024. - Bills for Final Consideration passed en bloc (13-0): - 24-1116: Mayoral reappointment of Elizabeth Macy to the Denver Commission on Cultural Affairs (term 9-01-2024 to 8-31-2027). - 24-1154: Ordinance amending Chapter 27 (Housing) of the Denver Revised Municipal Code regarding negotiated alternatives and high impact developments (correcting typos, clarifying language, granting parking exemptions and incentive height, citywide). - 24-1146: Amended and Restated Denargo Market Development Agreement with JB Denargo, LLC and Denargo Market Metropolitan District (amending environmental standards on city property not ROW or Parks, Council District 9). - Bills for Introduction ordered published: - 24-1093: Zoning map amendment for 401 North Delaware Street in Baker (from U-RH-2.5 to U-MX-2X). Public hearing scheduled for October 28, 2024. Protests due by noon on October 21, 2024. - 24-1207: Vacation of a portion of right-of-way at 901 North Navajo Street without reservations (Council District 3). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on Council Bill 24-1168 (West Globeville Metropolitan District): Three speakers signed up in favor; none in opposition. Karen Gerwitz (resident of North City Park, President/CEO of World Trade Center Denver) spoke in support, citing delays from EPA cleanup and zoning challenges, and requested streamlining to move the project forward. Anthony Cistone (lives/works in Fox Park for seven years) expressed strong support, praising community outreach and investment. Carla Padilla (descendant of generations of Globeville residents) supported the bill, noting environmental remediation costs and that the special improvement district (SID) would not pass taxes on to residents. One speaker, Jesse Paris (candidate for State House District 8), asked questions about project funding, AMI levels for housing, community engagement, and environmental concerns but did not explicitly oppose; council did not answer questions at that time. Discussion Items - Proclamation 24-1265 – Supporting Denver's Gig Economy Workers (sponsored by Councilmembers Parady, Gilmore, Kashmann): Recognized over 25,000 rideshare workers in the metro area, the Drivers Cooperative Colorado (first worker-managed on-demand rideshare co-op in the U.S.), and Colorado Independent Drivers United (CIDU). Councilmembers spoke about worker exploitation, the need for fair wages and human resources access, and the co-op model. Adopted 13-0. Representatives from the co-op and CIDU accepted, noting 2,000 drivers and 6,000 riders have joined the app. - Proclamation 24-1271 – Recognizing September as National Blood Cancer Awareness Month (sponsored by Councilmember Watson): Cited statistics: approximately every three minutes one person in the U.S. is diagnosed with blood cancer; estimated 187,000 new cases in 2024; more than 80% of Hodgkin's lymphoma patients can be cured. Councilmember Watson shared his personal survivorship story (non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2011). Adopted 13-0. Courtney Kinney (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) accepted, noting LLS has advanced over 70% of blood cancer treatments and provided $700 million in co-pay assistance. - Council Announcements: Multiple council members announced upcoming events, including a community cleanup, voter registration events, town halls, a ground-breaking for Colfax Bus Rapid Transit, and a tribal convening for the indigenous context study. Key Outcomes - Council Bill 24-0983 (zoning change for 4050 North Colorado Boulevard and associated properties in Northeast Park Hill, from B-3 with waivers/conditions to C-MX-5 and C-MX-8) was placed upon final consideration and passed 10-2 (Flynn and Sawyer opposed; Watson absent). A public hearing had been held on September 16, 2024. - Council Bill 24-1168 (First Amendments to the First Amended and Restated Service Plans for West Globeville Metropolitan District Nos. 1 & 2) passed 13-0 after a public hearing. The amendments provide statutory authority to create special improvement districts for short-term financing of horizontal infrastructure. Staff reported the district is approximately 41 acres, at full build-out will encompass 6.2 million square feet of mixed-use development with a daytime population of 3,300. Councilmember Watson noted a community benefit agreement with specific reinvested dollars (upwards of $6.5 million) seeded into community organizations, and that toxic soil was routed outside the community per resident requests. - City settlement totals: Councilmember Lewis reported that with the approval of resolutions 24-1266, 24-1267, 24-1268, and 24-1269, the 2024 total for taxpayer dollars in city settlements reached $4,883,411.29. - Postponement: Resolution 24-1164 (residential reentry facility purchase) was postponed to October 7, 2024. - Future hearing: A public hearing on Council Bill 24-1093 (zoning for 401 N. Delaware St., Baker) is scheduled for October 28, 2024, with protests due by October 21, 2024. The meeting adjourned at 6:34 PM.

On September 24, 2024, the Denver City Council and Mayor convened for a weekly session. The meeting featured introductions, announcements from council members, and a major presentation on a new digital benefits screening tool called "My Friend Ben" (or "Ben for Benefits"), developed in partnership with the nonprofit Gary and Denver Human Services. The presentation highlighted the tool's potential to connect residents to over $500 million in unclaimed federal benefits annually. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to move into executive session for litigation discussion. Announcements - Councilman Cashman thanked the First Lady for the Give Five Mile High program, noting a cleanup of 30 bags of trash at I-25 and Colorado Boulevard, much of it drug paraphernalia. - Councilman Watson announced a community cleanup and interfaith volunteer efforts, including health kits for newcomers. He also promoted Hamilton's fall fest with remaining pumpkins. - Councilman Watson (also) highlighted La Fiesta restaurant's 60th anniversary celebration on September 27, 2024, at 2340 Champa Street. - Councilman Torres announced a performance loan of $8.5 million with Mercy Housing for 190 affordable housing units (94 permanent supportive) at 9th and Navajo, designed to meet needs of Native community. - Councilman Alvidrez thanked the First Lady's Initiative for a cleanup in District 7 and announced a new dog park grand opening on September 28 at Cherokee and Dakota. Presentation: My Friend Ben Benefits Tool Elise (from Gary) and Anne Marie (Denver Human Services) presented the tool, accompanied by Brian and the Mayor. Key points: - Problem: One in three Denver residents need services, but $500 million in federal benefits go unclaimed each year due to complex, multi-agency application processes. - Tool: A free, online screener (phone-friendly) that takes about six minutes. It asks about household size, income, expenses, and current benefits, then generates a personalized roadmap of eligible programs. - Scope: Covers over 50 federal, state, and local programs. Available in 11 languages (top DPS languages). No personally identifiable information required unless users opt in for updates. - Impact: In 18 months, over 20,000 households have been screened. The median annual value identified is $30,000 per household. The Mayor stated that full utilization of existing benefits could cut black and Hispanic poverty in Denver by 40%. - Denver Partnership: Denver Human Services launched the tool this week. The city is working to integrate all city benefits into a single application, allowing residents to pre-populate and submit applications for multiple city benefits in one step. - Future Vision: Version 3.0 could include a philanthropic loan fund to advance benefit amounts immediately upon application, reducing wait times. Council Discussion and Questions Council members expressed strong support and asked clarifying questions: - Councilwoman Sawyer: Called it a "game changer" and asked about geographic specificity; confirmed zip code-based availability. - Councilman Torres: Emphasized the importance of addressing reluctance to report income and mixed-status households. Suggested flagging one-time benefits and noting that renters can qualify for certain programs. - Councilman Watson: Asked about actual take-up rates (not just median value) and cautioned about overpromising. Also inquired about AI integration across departments, citing past slowdowns. - Council President Pro Tem: Noted importance for seniors and asked about inclusion of food resources and state tax credits. Excited about single-application concept. - Councilman Cashman: Suggested placing the tool in libraries with trained staff, similar to housing navigation centers. - Councilwoman Lewis: Asked about community partner organizations, marketing strategy (mostly English and Spanish), and whether basic income is treated as income. Also inquired about WhatsApp integration and how resources are kept updated. Invited presenters to a Safety Committee meeting. - The Mayor shared a personal anecdote about how such a tool would have changed his life as a young parent. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the presentation. Council members expressed unanimous enthusiasm and offered suggestions for implementation. - The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 234A3 and 6 for discussion of ongoing litigation. The motion passed unanimously (all in favor, no opposition noted).

The Denver City Council convened on September 23, 2024, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. The meeting included proclamations honoring community leaders, adoption of numerous resolutions on consent, and four public hearings on land use and development items. Key votes included approval of a $197 million East Colfax BRT construction contract, a $1 million EPA grant for home electrification, and two rezonings and a development agreement for the Cherry Creek West project. Council also debated equity in shelter services and postponed two urban renewal bills pending a related public hearing. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of September 16, 2024. - Adopted 18 resolutions en bloc (vote: 12-0, with Councilmember Hinds absent). These included: - 24-1153: $1 million EPA grant for Healthy Homes Electrification in Districts 8 & 9. - 24-1155: 2-year extension of SolarCorps Fellowship Program with GRID Alternatives (no added cost). - 24-1156: $4 million incentive agreement with Turkish Airlines for nonstop Istanbul service. - 24-1157: $32 million increase to Anglin Civil snow removal contract at DEN (new total $89.5 million). - 24-1158: $8 million increase to Aramark landside snow removal contract (new total $29 million). - 24-1138/1139: Mayoral appointments to 14th Street GID and Colfax BID. - 24-1147/1148/1149: Purchase orders for tires and PPE from Purcell, Galls, and L.N. Curtis. - 24-1152: Appointments to Community Corrections Board. - 24-1078: $197.3 million contract with Kraemer North America LLC for East Colfax Avenue BRT (Districts 5,8,9,10). - 24-1159/1160/1161: Street dedications in Districts 1, 4, and 3. - 24-1127: $6.76 million loan to Albion Apartments for 170 affordable units. - 24-1165: Amendment to Elevation Community Land Trust ARPA spend-down terms. - 24-1178 & 24-1180: Amendments with Renewal Village Housing Corporation converting 26 shelter units to supportive housing (net increase to 134 units). Public Comments & Testimony - During 24-1108 (Welton redevelopment): Five speakers: Keith Pryor (Five Points Historic Cultural District) and Stephen Bennett (Curtis Park Neighbors RNO) spoke in favor, citing community outreach and need for affordable homeownership. Jesse Parris (candidate HD8, fusion studios resident) raised questions about AMI levels, traffic, and BID tax impacts. Tracy Huggins of DURA delivered staff report. Norman Harris (Five Points BID) supported, noting 70-80% AMI target and hope for local preference. - During 24-0997 (3300 Irving St rezoning): Huong Dang (District 1 resident) spoke in favor, supporting small business growth but urging pedestrian safety improvements. Jesse Parris spoke in opposition, asking about uses, AMI, and pedestrian safety. - During 24-1025 (Cherry Creek West rezoning): 11 speakers: Amy Cara (East West Partners) led with presentation. Kevin Matthews (YIMBY Denver), Luchia Brown (YIMBY Denver), Lou Raders (Cherry Creek Steering Committee), Walter Armer (Cherry Creek North resident), Ryan Keeney (EMB Denver), Andrew Schmidt (small business owner), David Pardo (YIMBY Denver), Adam Estroff (YIMBY Denver), and Nick LeMasters (Cherry Creek Area Business Alliance) all spoke in favor, emphasizing affordable housing, walkability, and community benefits. Jesse Parris spoke in opposition, asking about traffic study, AMI levels, and affordability guarantees. - During 24-1137 (Cherry Creek West development agreement): Anna DeWitt (teacher, YIMBY Denver) and Luke Miller (Denver New Liberals) spoke in favor. Jesse Parris spoke in support if affordability is guaranteed. Discussion Items - 24-1031 (Salvation Army Tamarac shelter contract): Councilmember Lewis explained her no vote due to inequitable concentration of shelters in District 8 without commensurate services, citing 762 units in a 1-mile radius on Quebec. She noted the contract funds services at Tamarac (District 4) while District 8 shelters lack similar support. Councilmembers Romero Campbell, Gonzales-Gutierrez, and Alvidrez acknowledged the equity concerns but noted Tamarac's importance. Councilmember Parady voted no due to ongoing issues with Salvation Army as provider. Final vote: 9-3 (Lewis, Parady, Sawyer no). - 24-1155 (SolarCorps comment): Councilmember Lewis praised the program for successful job placement and retention, and expressed hope to extend similar opportunities to unhoused populations. - 24-1078 (East Colfax BRT): Councilmember Sawyer clarified that despite community concerns about center-running BRT, the design is final. She highlighted the need to fund the Business Impact Opportunity Fund (BIO Fund) to support affected businesses along Colfax. She stated she will request budget amendments or submit a direct ask to the mayor. - 24-1106/1107 (Welton TIF agreements): Councilmember Sawyer successfully moved to postpone these bills until after the public hearing and vote on 24-1108, as they are companion ordinances. Postponed 12-0. - 24-0997 (3300 Irving St): Councilmember Flynn noted discrepancy in staff report (building listed as occupied dental office but actually vacant for 9 months). Applicant Chris Student confirmed vacancy. Council President Sandoval noted earlier rezoning attempt failed, and the applicant worked with neighborhood to propose U-MS-2x, supported by West Highland Neighborhood Association. - 24-1025 & 24-1137 (Cherry Creek West): Councilmember Sawyer questioned Amy Cara on financing (no metro district, no LIHTC used), ground lease structure, building heights (max 13 stories across site, but only four buildings at max, others at 8 stories), and affordable housing mix (12% at 60% AMI, integrated units). Councilmember Kashmann pressed DOTI on southbound University traffic improvements; Nathan Pope confirmed awareness and plans for improvements. Key Outcomes - 24-1031: Adopted (9-3). Contract with Salvation Army for $2.57 million through June 2025 for family shelter services at Tamarac. - 24-1108: Passed (11-0, Hinds and Torres absent). Approved amendment to Welton Corridor Urban Redevelopment Plan to add 29th & Welton project and create tax increment areas for financing $2.21 million gap. Project: 62-unit affordable for-sale condos (70-80% AMI) by Shanahan Development and Elevation Community Land Trust. - 24-1106 & 24-1107: Postponed until after 24-1108 vote. Later passed en bloc (11-0). These approve cooperation agreements with DURA for tax increment financing at 2300 Welton and 29th & Welton. - 24-0997: Passed (11-0). Rezoning 3300 N Irving Street from PUD 577 to U-MS-2x, allowing mixed-use neighborhood retail. - 24-1025: Passed as amended (11-0). Rezoning 2500 E 1st Avenue from B-3 to PUD-G 36 (max 13 stories) for Cherry Creek West redevelopment. - 24-1137: Passed (11-0). Development agreement with Cherry Creek West Development Co. LLC for affordable housing (12% units at 60% AMI, 99-year term), double linkage fee ($12 million estimated), workforce development, and below-market commercial space. - Future Hearings: September 30, 2024: Public hearings on West Globeville Metro District plans (24-1168) and Denargo Market development agreement (24-1146). October 21, 2024: Public hearing on rezoning of 1000 Chopper Circle (24-1140). Protests due October 14, 2024 by noon. - Adjournment: 8:16 PM.

The Denver City Council convened on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 3:30 PM and adjourned at 8:41 PM. The meeting included approval of minutes, council announcements, adoption of several resolutions and bills en bloc, a separate vote on a contract for asylum seeker services, and three public hearings on zoning changes that were all postponed after deliberation. Key themes included affordable housing, infrastructure, and neighborhood character. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (24-1182): Approved for September 9, 2024. - Resolutions and Bills on Final Consideration: All remaining items were approved en bloc by a vote of 13-0. Notable items include: - Resolution 24-1117: Contract with ProDIGIQ, Inc. for $1,175,000 for a Safety Management System at Denver International Airport. - Resolution 24-1114: Amendment with Blue Star Recyclers for electronic waste recycling. - Resolution 24-1115: Amendment with Midwest Connect for mailing services. - Resolution 24-1124: Reappointment of Ana Varela to the Denver County Cultural Council. - Resolution 24-1082: Contract for sewer pipe rehabilitation for $4,709,119. - Resolution 24-1125 and 24-1128: Dedication of public alleys and streets. - Resolution 24-1032: Contract with The Salvation Army for $1,250,000 for housing navigation and rental assistance. - Resolution 24-1118: Amendment with Rocky Mountain Human Services for the Denver START program (crisis services for IDD/MH). - Resolution 24-1123: Dedication of a public alley. - Bills on final consideration: 24-1069 (TSA equipment transfer), 24-1089 (employee insurance changes), 24-1090 (classification and pay plan), 24-1101 (Mile High Flood District fund), 24-1102 (liability claims fund), 24-1063 (Parks Legacy Five-Year Plan), 24-1076 (sidewalk code changes), 24-1079 and 24-1083 (easement relinquishments), 24-0823 (Denver Health for Head Start), 24-1061 (ADU pilot program expansion), 24-1086 (Douglas County agreement for youth services), 24-1091 (competency restoration at jails), 24-1092 (substance use treatment at jails). Public Comments & Testimony - Council Bill 24-0983 (4050 N Colorado Blvd rezoning): Three speakers signed up in favor: Jesse Parris (representing multiple organizations), Channon Ingram (Northeast Park Hill Coalition board member), and Kevin Marchman (president of the coalition). No speakers signed up in opposition. - Council Bill 24-0878 (3801 E Florida Ave rezoning): Two speakers: Matt Page (resident of 1395 S Jackson St) spoke in opposition, citing a perceived neighborhood agreement to preserve green space and trees. Jesse Parris spoke in favor initially but later expressed concerns and opposition after hearing the first speaker's points. Discussion Items - Resolution 24-0900 – Haven of Hope Contract for Denver Asylum Seeker Program (DASP): - Councilmember Lewis expressed support for basic income but voted nay (the only no vote). Councilmember Gonzales-Gutierrez asked about the number of participants (865 newcomers, half children) and duration of food services. Councilmember Torres inquired about food distribution logistics and equipment ownership. The contract ($6,049,292) was adopted 12-1. - Council Bill 24-0983 – Rezoning 4050 N Colorado Blvd: - Staff presented the request to rezone from former Chapter 59 to CMX-5 and CMX-8, with a focus on affordable housing (600 units planned) and transit-oriented development. The site is part of a Planned Building Group (PBG) requiring all owner signatures for amendments; the applicant owns 54% of the area. One property owner opposed. Extensive discussion ensued about the precedent of rezoning without unanimous consent, the pending text amendment bundle (to allow PBG amendments with majority), and traffic concerns. Councilmembers Flynn, Sawyer, Gilmore, Romero Campbell expressed concerns about the precedent. Councilmember Lewis suggested postponement to allow further negotiations. The applicant noted a loan due in 45 days. Ultimately, the bill was postponed to September 30, 2024, by a 13-0 vote. - Council Bill 24-0878 – Rezoning 3801 E Florida Ave: - Staff presented the request to rezone from B-A-3 and O-1 to S-MX-5. The site has a 9-story office tower and a green strip with 56 mature trees along Jackson Street. A protest petition was submitted but did not meet the 20% threshold. Councilmember Kashmann emphasized the importance of preserving the mature tree canopy, citing climate goals and the city's urban forest plan. He requested a postponement to work with forestry on protections. Councilmember Flynn noted that the O-1 portion was originally intended as a buffer. The bill was postponed to October 14, 2024, by a 13-0 vote. - Other Items: - Resolution 24-1078 (East Colfax BRT construction contract, $197 million) was postponed one week by Councilmember Sawyer. - Councilmember Flynn commented on Bill 24-1076 (sidewalk code), confirming that the city is no longer citing property owners for sidewalk repairs due to the new Initiative 307 funding mechanism. Key Outcomes - Resolution 24-0900 adopted (12-1; Lewis nay). - Resolution 24-1078 postponed to September 23, 2024. - All other resolutions and bills on final consideration approved en bloc (13-0). - Bills for introduction ordered published (24-1106, 24-1107, 24-1108, 24-0732, 24-1137). - Proclamations adopted: - 24-1183: Honoring La Sociedad Protección Mutua de Trabajadores Unidos Concilio NO. 7 (unanimous). - 24-1184: Honoring Mariachi Estelares at the Viva Southwest Mariachi Festival (unanimous). - Council Bill 24-0916 (zoning, 1920 S King St) postponed to October 14, 2024 (11-0, two absent). - Council Bill 24-0983 (zoning, 4050 N Colorado Blvd) postponed to September 30, 2024 (13-0). - Council Bill 24-0878 (zoning, 3801 E Florida Ave) postponed to October 14, 2024 (13-0). Note: The meeting date is specified as September 16, 2024, consistent with the agenda and transcript. The meeting began at 3:30 PM and ended at 8:41 PM.