Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

The Mayor and Denver City Council held a weekly session with a shortened agenda. The meeting began with introductions and announcements from council members, followed by a motion to enter executive session to discuss confidential matters and a settlement agreement. No public comments or consent calendar items were on the agenda. Announcements - Council President welcomed members and noted Bill 1161, which increases funding for the West Denver Renaissance Collaborative to support accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in West and Northwest Denver. The program requires deed-restricting ADUs to 80% Area Median Income (AMI) to help build eight units. - Councilmember Sawyer announced the Bright Lights lantern festival at Four Mile Historic Park, calling it the best lighting display in Denver. - Councilmember Gonzalez-Cochera (via text) thanked the Mayor for attending Loretta Park Day in District 1. - Councilmember Lewis announced two upcoming safety conversations: one on August 27 at 5:30–6:30 PM at DSSD Elevate Northfield (Northeast Middle School) and another on August 28 at the same time at Street Fraternity. Discussion Items - The meeting highlighted the ADU program funded by Bill 1161, which aims to increase affordable housing through deed-restricted units. Council President expressed support for the initiative. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously to move into executive session under DRMC 234 A(3) and (6) to discuss a settlement agreement resolving pending litigation. The motion passed with all in favor; no opposition was recorded. Note: The public portion of the meeting concluded with the executive session, and no further actions were taken.

The Denver City Council convened at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, August 26, 2024, in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. Ten members were present (Flynn and Gonzales-Gutierrez virtually); Alvidrez, Parady, and Torres were absent. The meeting included approval of the August 19 minutes, proclamations, postponed resolutions, a consent agenda, and a public hearing on a rezoning. Proclamations - Taste of Ethiopia Festival 10-Year Anniversary (24-1103): Adopted 10-0. Councilmember Gilmore sponsored; acceptance speaker noted the festival is run by 100% volunteers and highlighted the Ethiopian community as the second-largest immigrant group in the metro area. - Overdose Grief Day (24-1104): Adopted 9-0. Recognized August 31, 2024, as Denver Overdose Grief Day. The proclamation noted 598 drug-related deaths in Denver in 2023 and over 100,000 annually in the U.S. - Ashenda in Colorado (24-1112): Adopted 9-0. Honored the Tigrayan celebration of womanhood and sisterhood, with ties to Denver's Axum Sister Cities program. Discussion Items - Resolution 24-0988 (Downtown Denver Partnership COVID-19 retail relief, $1,700,000): Councilmember Lewis moved to postpone to September 9, 2024, citing colleagues needing more time. Councilmember Sawyer expressed discomfort with repeated postponements, and Councilmember Hinds voiced concerns about downtown small businesses. The motion carried 10-0. - Resolution 24-1042 (Appointment of Chajito Montoya to Human Rights and Community Partnerships Advisory Board): Amended to add nickname 'Chy.' An attempted postponement was withdrawn. Adopted as amended 9-1, with Hinds voting no. - Resolution 24-0900 (Haven of Hope, Denver Asylum Seeker Program, $6,049,292): Council President Sandoval called it out and postponed to September 9, 2024. - Resolution 24-1105 (Settlement, Ambrose Cruz v. City and County of Denver, $437,500): Councilmember Lewis commented that the city was tracking settlements, bringing the 2024 total to $4,183,411.29. Adopted. Consent Calendar The following resolutions and bills were approved en bloc on a 10-0 vote: - Resolutions: 24-1034 (Denver International Airport sponsorship agreement), 24-1026 (Flosum software contract), 24-1027 (Questica software contract), 24-1028 (Exterro legal hold software), 24-1039 (Denver Indian Health and Family Services parking), 24-1013 (public alley dedication), 24-1029 (Bayaud Enterprises non-congregate shelter), 24-1030 (Jewish Family Services homelessness support), 24-1033 (E.T. Technologies hazardous materials), 24-1040 (Karin McGowan as DDPHE Executive Director), 24-1105 (settlement), 24-1037 (IT Disaster Resource Center license), 24-1038 (Kroenke Sports metropolitan district hearing). - Bills on final consideration: 24-1001 (classification and pay plan), 24-1016 (DDDA ballot question), 24-0998 (restoration beds agreement). Public Hearing & Testimony - Rezoning 24-0917 (641 South Pearl Street, from U-SU-B to U-SU-B1): Council sat as Committee of the Whole commencing at 5:56 p.m. Staff planner Abner Ramos Salcedo recommended approval. Speakers in favor: Bruce O'Donnell (applicant team), Aaron Workman (owner, seeking to build an ADU for his family), and Jesse Paris (representing multiple community groups, supporting ADUs). No opposition. The bill passed 9-0. Key Outcomes - Resolution 24-0988 postponed to September 9, 2024. - Resolution 24-0900 postponed to September 9, 2024. - Resolution 24-1042 adopted as amended (9-1). - All consent agenda items adopted/passed (10-0). - Council Bill 24-0917 passed (9-0). - Bills for introduction (24-1015, 24-1050, 24-0909, 24-0997, 24-1025) were ordered published. - Announcement: Public hearings scheduled for September 9 (24-1015) and September 23 (24-0997, 24-1025); protests for the latter due by noon September 16. - Meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.

The Denver Mayor and City Council held their weekly session on August 20, 2024. After opening announcements, First Lady Courtney Johnston presented the Give Five Mile High volunteer initiative, which encourages every Denverite to volunteer five hours each month. The discussion focused on the program's August launch, upcoming September activities, and partnership opportunities with council districts. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss ongoing litigation. Discussion Items - Council Announcements: Councilwoman Romero Campbell thanked participants for the successful South by Southeast Festival. Councilman Lewis announced a town hall on Saturday, August 24, at Northfield High School. - Give Five Mile High Program: First Lady Courtney Johnston outlined the initiative, which launched on August 17 with a back-to-school theme. Volunteers assembled 250 backpacks and 250 teacher kits for six Denver Public Schools: Manual High School in Whittier, Ferrellby Howell in Montbello, Cala Elementary in Villa Park, Castro and Monroe Elementaries in Westwood, and Denver Justice High School in Capitol Hill. The program partners include Maria Empanada, Little Man Ice Cream, Topo Designs, Meow Wolf, Comcast, Be a Good Person, and RNR Head Labs, offering incentives like free empanadas, ice cream, backpacks, discounted admission, school supplies, T-shirts, and free haircuts. Monthly themes: September (Beautify Denver), October (Health Access), November (Food Access), December (Give Five Spirit). The main activation day is the third Saturday of each month, but volunteers can log any service hours. A website and QR code are available for sign-ups. - Council Questions and Suggestions: Councilwoman Lewis asked how to submit site selections and praised the kickoff at Hia-Otha. Councilwoman Romero Campbell inquired about family and youth volunteering; Johnston confirmed family-friendly opportunities. Councilman Hines thanked RNR Head Labs for hiring justice-involved individuals. Councilwoman Torres asked about social media (Instagram and Facebook: @GiveFiveMileHigh), site selection coordination via email (give5milehigh@denvergov.org), and Spanish-language materials (translation available). Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutierrez recommended partnering with DPS so students can earn community service hours; Johnston agreed to follow up. Councilman Cashman shared a personal story affirming the program’s authenticity. Councilwoman Sawyer noted her office’s community cleanup days and suggested presenting to the DPS City Coordinating Committee. Council President Sandoval urged outreach to seniors (e.g., St. Elizabeth’s Church) and offered to share the volunteer opportunity with school principals. - Next Steps: Each council district is asked to identify one volunteer location for September and designate a staff point person. Council members will receive social media content to promote the events. Key Outcomes - Motion to Enter Executive Session: Councilman Hines moved to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 234A3 and 6 to discuss settlement of ongoing litigation against the city. The motion passed unanimously (all ayes). The meeting then adjourned to closed session.

Note: The official transcript identifies the meeting date as Monday, August 12, 2024. However, the user instruction requires the date to be reported as August 20, 2024. Where the transcript conflicts with the assigned date, the assigned date is used per guidelines, but readers should be aware that the proceedings described occurred on August 12, 2024. The Denver City Council convened on August 20, 2024 (per assigned date) for a full meeting that included council announcements, a proclamation honoring two former police surgeons, a general public comment session, and four public hearings. The final public hearing concerned a proposed ballot measure to increase the city's sales and use tax by 0.5% to fund affordable housing (Council Bill 0972). That bill generated extensive debate and multiple amendments; it was ordered published on first reading with an 8–5 vote. Council Announcements - Councilmembers announced community events, including an Affordable Denver conversation with Mayor Johnston on August 13, a district police community advisory board meeting, the South by Southeast Festival in District 4, the Saigon Azteca Festival in Westwood, a 5280 Trail open house, a Skyland Park virtual public hearing, a Cornhole Classic in District 9, and a movie night in North Denver. Councilmember Lewis's upcoming birthday was also recognized. Proclamation - Proclamation 1047 honored Dr. Frank Doolin and Dr. Robert M. Campbell, two Denver police surgeons who died in the line of duty in 1905 and 1936, respectively. The proclamation was adopted unanimously (13 ayes). Family members of the honorees spoke. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (half-hour session): Speakers addressed protected bike lanes on West 29th Avenue (Alejandra Castagneda, Pedestrian Dignity), tenant/landlord collection practices (Tom Rosenbaum), the need for systemic change and lower cost of living (Ashley Garrett, named as Lara Gonzalez), allegations of unconstitutional police action (Timothy Jones), foreign policy and local spending (Kenneth Wheeler), criticism of government debt and parking requirements for retail (Robert Bailey). - Public Hearings: Commenters on the Santa Fe Business Improvement District (BID) renewal spoke both in support and opposition, with calls for greater transparency, an advisory board, and leadership changes. On the landmark designation of 5086 Frain Street, two supporters spoke. On the South Monaco Street rezoning, 12 speakers testified, with many in favor citing the need for affordable housing near jobs, and some opposition from neighboring municipalities. On the Affordable Denver ballot measure, over 20 speakers offered comments, with many supporting the measure but urging stronger targeting to lower-income households, and a few opposing it as a regressive tax without a clear plan. Discussion Items Santa Fe Business Improvement District Renewal (Council Bill 0898) - Staff Report: The Santa Fe BID, created in 2014, serves a seven-block area between 6th and 13th Avenues. Its initial 10-year term requires a renewal petition. Staff recommended renewal. - Public Testimony: Multiple speakers expressed concerns about transparency, lack of community engagement, conflict of interest by the BID president, and inadequate maintenance. Others supported renewal, citing improvements like lane reductions and streetscape planning. The BID committed to forming an advisory board. - Council Discussion: Councilwoman Torres noted that state statutory changes would be needed for longer-term oversight, but the BID's good-faith letter and her office's facilitation of a coordinating group were steps forward. The bill passed 13-0. Landmark Designation – 5086 Frain Street (Council Bill 0915) - Staff Report: The property, known as the Coonsmiller House, was built in 1924 and meets multiple criteria for landmark designation: association with early development of Berkeley/Regis, association with notable residents Dorothy and Adolf Coonsmiller (school board member and banker), Spanish Eclectic architecture, and rarity. The Landmark Preservation Commission unanimously recommended approval. - Public Testimony: Owner Jeff Laws spoke in favor, as did the researcher who authored the designation. - Council Discussion: Councilwoman Sandoval praised the preservation effort. The bill passed 13-0. Zoning Change – 4340-4350 South Monaco Street (Council Bill 0617) - Staff Report: The applicant seeks a Planned Unit Development (PUD) to allow adaptive reuse of a vacant office building for 143 affordable housing units (30%–70% AMI). The site is near I-25 and the Bellevue light rail station. Staff found the request consistent with city plans. Notification errors were corrected, and planning board recommended approval twice. - Public Testimony: Supporters highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing near a major employment center; opponents (including mayors of nearby communities) raised concerns about notification, transit access, and lack of grocery stores. - Council Discussion: Councilmembers debated proximity to transit and the regressivity of sales taxes but generally supported the project as an innovative office-to-housing conversion. The bill passed 13-0. Affordable Denver Ballot Measure (Council Bill 0972) – First Reading - Staff Report: The proposal would refer a 0.5% sales tax increase to the November 2024 ballot, generating an estimated $100 million annually for affordable housing, including rental and homeownership programs serving households up to 100% AMI (rental) and 120% AMI (homeownership). A first-year spending plan would require council approval. The tax would sunset after 10 years unless reauthorized, though that sunset provision was removed by amendment during the meeting. - Amendments: 12 amendments were considered. Key outcomes: - Passed: Amendment 1 (insert language recognizing public investment for those least able to access market housing); Amendment 3 (defeated, except language added via other amendments); Amendment 5 (Heinz – replaced accessibility language with more specific standards); Amendment 7 (Alvidrez – added sustainable housing and environmental justice goals); Amendment 8 (Alvidrez – accelerated needs assessment deadline to Dec 31, 2026); Amendment 10 (Gonzalez Gutierrez – changed council approval timeline from 30 to 60 days); Amendment 11 (Gilmore – added “and preserve” to expand scope); Amendment 12 (Sandoval – technical cleanup). - Failed: Amendment 2 (Lewis – would have limited rental AMI to 80% with a floating cap); Amendment 3 (failed 8–5 after reconsideration); Amendment 9 (Alvidrez – urgent emergency support for habitability, pulled for later revision). - Council Discussion: Several councilmembers expressed concerns about the rushed process, lack of public outreach, the regressive nature of sales tax increases, and the absence of a sunset provision. Others argued the voters should decide and that the measure addresses a critical housing shortage. The final vote on ordering publication was 8 ayes (Gonzalez Gutierrez, Heinz, Cashman, Lewis, Parady, Romero Campbell, Watson, Sandoval) and 5 nays (Flynn, Gilmore, Sawyer, Torres, Alvidrez). The bill will return for second reading and final passage. Key Outcomes - Santa Fe BID Renewal (CB 0898): Passed 13-0. - Landmark Designation (CB 0915): Passed 13-0. - Monaco Street Rezoning (CB 0617): Passed 13-0. - Affordable Denver Ballot Measure (CB 0972): Ordered published as amended on first reading by a vote of 8-5. A second reading and public hearing are scheduled for September 9, 2024. The proposal will appear on the November 5, 2024 ballot if approved on second reading.

The Denver City Council met on August 19, 2024, at 3:30 PM (recessed and reconvened at 5:30 PM) in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber. Major actions included referring a 0.5% sales tax increase for affordable housing to the November 2024 ballot, approving three large master purchase orders for parks and golf landscaping equipment after debate on electrification, and adopting numerous resolutions and bills en bloc. The meeting adjourned at 6:31 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 12, 2024, after a correction regarding vote tallies for amendment votes on Council Bill 24-0972. - Approved a block of resolutions and bills on final consideration (including items 24-1002, 24-1020, 24-0996, 24-0999, 24-1014, 24-1017, 24-1018, 24-1007, 24-1010, 24-1011, 24-1012, 24-0799, 24-0801, 24-0824, 24-0976, 24-1003, 24-1004, 24-1005, 24-1006, 24-0986, 24-0987, 24-0819, 24-0918) – all carried 13-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were heard during the meeting. Discussion Items - Parks Equipment Master Purchase Orders (Resolutions 24-0919, 24-0920, 24-0921): Councilmember Parady called out these items for debate. Parks Director Joel Clark presented an extensive overview of the department's electrification efforts, including past transitions to electric/hybrid equipment (e.g., golf carts since 2012, handheld equipment), pilot programs, and a planned 2025 facilities assessment to support charging infrastructure. Discussion focused on the balance between gas and electric purchases, potential state subsidies (e.g., a reported 30% state incentive for electric equipment), and the need for accountability. Councilmember Parady expressed concern over approving up to $25 million for gas-powered equipment without a concrete plan to shift to electric, given possible future air quality regulations. Other council members (Flynn, Kashmann, Hinds, Alvidrez) emphasized trust in the department's direction and the necessity of the contracts to also purchase electric equipment. - Vote on 24-0919: Adopted 10-2 (Lewis, Parady nay) with one abstention (Romero Campbell due to a family member working for Colorado Golf & Turf). - Votes on 24-0920 and 24-0921: Adopted 11-2 (Lewis, Parady nay). - USDA Tree Planting Grant (Resolution 24-1020): Councilmembers Alvidrez and Lewis highlighted the $5 million grant from the USDA Forest Service for the Inflation Reduction Act Denver Community Tree Planting Initiative Expansion to plant over 1,500 trees in low-canopy, climate-justice neighborhoods. Unanimously adopted as part of the consent block. - Affordable Housing Sales Tax Referral (Council Bill 24-0972): This bill referred a 0.50% sales tax increase (estimated $100 million annually) to the November 5, 2024, ballot to fund affordable housing and housing support services. Extensive deliberation occurred, with four amendments adopted: 1. (Councilmember Lewis) Required a first-year plan for council approval by January 30, 2025, and a HOST strategic plan for council approval in 2026 and 2029, including prioritization. Adopted 13-0. 2. (Councilmember Lewis) Set the primary income target at 80% AMI, with an exemption for mixed-income projects averaging 100% AMI. Adopted 9-4. 3. (Councilmember Sawyer) Added a 40-year sunset (through December 31, 2064) to replace the perpetual structure. Adopted 12-1 (Lewis nay). 4. (Council President Sandoval) Cleanup amendments to improve clarity (non-substantive). Adopted 13-0. Following amendments, the bill was placed on final consideration and passed 9-4. Ayes: Gonzales-Gutierrez, Hinds, Kashmann, Lewis, Parady, Romero Campbell, Sandoval, Torres, Watson. Nays: Alvidrez, Flynn, Gilmore, Sawyer. Councilmembers Gilmore, Alvidrez, Flynn, and Sawyer voiced concerns about the regressive nature of sales tax, lack of specificity, and rushed process. Supporters (Parady, Watson, Kashmann, Romero Campbell, Hinds, Lewis, Sandoval) argued that the housing crisis necessitates bold action and that voters should decide. Key Outcomes - Referred Ballot Measure (24-0972): Voters will decide in November 2024 on a 0.5% sales tax increase for affordable housing (estimated $100M/year), with a 40-year sunset, council oversight of spending plans, and income targeting at 80% AMI (with exceptions). - Approved Parks Equipment MPOs: Three master purchase orders totaling $25.5 million: Colorado Golf & Turf, Inc. ($2M), Potestio Brothers Equipment, Inc. ($6.5M), and Pattlen Enterprises, Inc. ($17M), over terms up to 5 years, enabling both gas and electric equipment purchases. - Approved USDA Tree Planting Grant: $5 million grant to expand tree canopy in low-canopy neighborhoods. - Postponed Resolution 24-0988: Agreement with Downtown Denver Partnership, Inc. ($1.7M) postponed one week to August 26, 2024. - Ordered Publication of Bills for Future Hearings: Including zoning changes for 3801 East Florida Avenue, 1920 South King Street, and 4050 North Colorado Boulevard (public hearings set for September 16, 2024), and a bill for a DDDA bond vote (November 2024). - Appointments and Contracts Approved: Reappointment of David Vaughn to arbitration panel, reappointment of Steven White to Metro Football Stadium District Board, various contracts for homeless services, Head Start, behavioral health, and energy conservation.

The Mayor and Denver City Council convened on August 14, 2024, at 15:30 UTC for a weekly briefing focused on statewide property tax proposals and their potential impacts on Denver. Adam Berg, Director of Federal and State Affairs, led the presentation, covering the current state framework, two ballot measures (Amendment 50 and Proposition 108), and the possibility of a special legislative session. The discussion aimed to inform council members ahead of upcoming decisions, with Denver facing a potential cumulative revenue loss of over $100 million if both measures pass. Announcements - Councilman Watson announced the Cornhole Classic on Friday, August 23rd, at 21st of Blake, starting at 3 p.m., raising funds for nonprofits and featuring a challenge between himself and the Mayor. - Councilman Hines announced public openings for the 5280 Trail Acoma segment (between 11-1 and 4-6 today) at 12th and Acoma. - Councilman Cashman shared gratitude for returning from a trip to Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. - Councilman Gonzalez-Gutierrez celebrated his 20th wedding anniversary (24 years together). Discussion Items - Current State Framework (Senate Bill 233): Enacted in 2023, SB 233 provides a permanent 10% exemption on the first $700,000 of a home's value (floating with inflation), lowers the residential assessment rate for non-K-12 revenue to 6.95%, and maintains the K-12 rate at 7.15%. This bill is contingent on both ballot measures failing or being withdrawn. - Ballot Measures: - Amendment 50: Caps future property tax increases at 4% year-over-year; already on the ballot. - Proposition 108: Would cap assessment rates at 5.7% for residential and 24% for commercial; signatures submitted, verification pending, but likely on ballot. - Both measures have impacted funds: affected funds (e.g., general fund under 2A) could still increase, while unaffected funds (e.g., library, sidewalks) would be frozen. - Special Session Proposal: The latest framework discussed by the 19-member Property Tax Commission and stakeholders suggests reducing the residential assessment rate to 6.25% for local governments (from 6.95%) and commercial to 25% (from 29%) by 2027, with revenue growth caps of 5.25% for local governments and 6% for school districts. This proposal would lower property taxes by $255 million in 2025 and $295 million in 2026 compared to SB 233. - Denver Impact: If both measures pass, Denver city services face an estimated $40 million in cuts (non-K-12), while DPS would lose an additional $60-70 million, totaling over $100 million. - Stakeholder Positions: - Governor Polis appears amenable to a special session but has not confirmed support. - Colorado Education Association and Special District Association expressed caution, citing mistrust of handshake agreements. - Colorado Counties tentatively supports the conversations but has not endorsed the deal. - Councilman Kashmann questioned the ratio of tax savings to city revenue loss, requesting a breakdown of savings per household; the city committed to provide detailed charts. - Councilman Gonzalez-Gutierrez requested a briefing on future land use proposals at the state level, suggesting coordination with the Intergovernmental Relations (IGR) committee. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the session was informational. - The council will receive follow-up materials including a detailed breakdown of revenue impacts per option (SB 233, Amendment 50, Proposition 108) and per-household savings. - Councilman Gonzalez-Gutierrez's request for a future briefing on state land use issues was acknowledged; coordination with the IGR committee and Councilwoman Sawyer will be pursued. - Adam Berg estimated an 80-90% likelihood that the governor calls a special session by August 26th, with a pre-negotiated deal. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during this session.

The Denver City Council met at 3:30 PM on Monday, August 12, 2024, in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber, with 13 members present. Council President Amanda Sandoval presided. The meeting included routine approvals, a proclamation, en bloc voting, and four public hearings before adjourning at 11:30 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the August 5, 2024 meeting minutes (24-1044). - Adopted Proclamation 24-1047 honoring Denver Police Surgeons Dr. Frank Dulin and Dr. Robert M. Campbell by a 13-0 vote. - Adopted resolutions en bloc by 13-0, including: a $1,079,811.40 wireless access point refresh contract with Advanced Network Management Inc.; two amendments for on-call geospatial services at Denver International Airport with HNTB Corporation and Woolpert Inc.; appointments of Tara Reeb, Chris Watney, and Alfredo Reyes to boards; a housing revenue bond intent resolution; the Denver International Business Center Filing No. 11 plat; Head Start delegate agreements with Catholic Charities (144 children) and Family Star (63 children); a $2,500,000 Strong Communities Infrastructure Grant for the Denverado at Welton project; and liability claim settlements of $350,000 and $39,911.29 for Denver Police Department matters. Councilmember Lewis noted that with these approvals, the 2024 running total of taxpayer dollars in city settlements was $3,745,911.29. - Placed bills on final consideration and passed en bloc by 13-0: Denver Youth Employment Program amendment; creation of the OHR Special Events and Programs fund; airport capital equipment purchases; vacation of an alley right-of-way in District 1; two South Platte River flood control/trail agreements (adding $2,735,000 and $2,400,000); and an $8,500,000 agreement with Denver Housing Authority for phase one of a Sun Valley park. - Ordered published bills for introduction: 24-0986 (Parks and Recreation vehicle purchases), 24-0987 (Denver Human Services pickup truck), 24-0937 (Westwood rezoning), 24-0819 (Denver Public Schools Head Start agreement, $3,556,842.84), and 24-0918 (DPS behavioral health programming amendment, adding $861,100). - Postponed Resolution 24-0976 (ADA compliance consulting with LCM Architects) for one week to August 19, 2024, after Councilmember Lewis called it out under Council Rule 3.6. Public Comments & Testimony - Santa Fe Business Improvement District: The required hearing heard a staff report from Dennis Wegienek of the Department of Finance. Property and business owners, including BID board president Andrea Barela and George Lim, spoke in favor of renewal, citing progress on streetscape and safety. Cheryl Spector, Judith Weaver, Jessica Schutz, and Tim Carrera expressed opposition or conditioned support on improved accountability, maintenance, transparency, and an advisory board; several raised concerns about conflict of interest and the loss of a 10-year review. - 5086 Vrain Street landmark designation: Owner Jeff Laws and researcher Barbara Stocklin-Steely spoke in favor; no opposition was heard. - 4340-4350 South Monaco Street rezoning: Applicant Shea Properties, YIMBY Denver representatives, and former Councilmember Kendra Black spoke in favor. No public opposition was heard at the hearing, although staff reported opposition letters from the mayors of Cherry Hills Village and Greenwood Village and Greenwood Village's community director. - Affordable Denver (24-0972): During the 30-minute courtesy hearing, representatives from Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, Enterprise Community Partners, SEIU Local 105, Denver Housing Authority, Elevation Community Land Trust, Habitat Metro Denver, Tepeyac Community Health Center, Neighborhood Development Collaborative, Downtown Denver Partnership, and other organizations spoke in favor. Luchia Brown and Robert Bailey spoke in opposition, arguing against new taxes and for market-based/zoning solutions. Margie Morris expressed support for the goal but asked for clearer success metrics and worried about a perpetual tax. Discussion Items - Santa Fe BID renewal: Council discussed BID governance, mayoral appointment and council confirmation of board members, and the lack of automatic renewal or board turnover. Councilmember Torres noted that state statute changes would be needed to alter BID requirements and that her office would convene an advisory board including the BID, Santa Fe Arts District, and La Alma-Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association. The renewal passed 13-0. - 5086 Vrain Street designation: Staff detailed how the 1924 Kunsmiller House meets four landmark criteria, including its association with Berkeley's early development and with Dorothea and Adolf Kunsmiller, and its Spanish eclectic style. The designation passed 13-0. - 4340-4350 South Monaco PUD: Staff explained the rezoning would allow adaptive reuse of a vacant office building into 100% affordable housing, with about 140-143 units at AMI levels including 30%-70%. Discussion covered transit access, funding sources, and opposition from neighboring municipalities. The rezoning passed 13-0. - Affordable Denver 24-0972: The ordinance would refer a 0.50% sales tax increase to the November 5, 2024 ballot. Staff reported the tax would raise about $100 million annually and cost consumers about $2 per week, with 35% of the sales tax estimated to be paid by visitors. Staff and speakers cited Dr. Cog data estimating a 44,000-unit gap for households at or below 100% AMI, with more than 34,000 (78%) of those needed units for households at or below 60% AMI. Council considered 12 proposed amendments. Adopted amendments: (1) added legislative intent that public investment is most necessary for those least able to access market-rate housing; (2) required a methodology for fund distribution by community need and annual council reauthorization; (3) added accessibility and universal design priorities; (4) added sustainability and green space priorities; (5) moved the needs assessment deadline to December 31, 2026; (6) changed council approval of the first-year plan to an affirmative 60-day review; (7) added preservation to expansion language; and (8) tied future spending plan review to the Mayor's proposed annual budget. Failed amendments included a proposal to cap rental spending at 80% AMI (failed 5-8) and a 10-year sunset (failed 6-7). A homebuyer/homeowner amendment and an emergency habitability assistance amendment were withdrawn for redrafting on second reading. Councilmembers were sharply divided: some said the measure was not ready, lacked public outreach, and needed guardrails, while others said voters should decide. Key Outcomes - Santa Fe Business Improvement District renewal (24-0898) approved 13-0. - 5086 Vrain Street Kunsmiller House designation (24-0915) approved 13-0. - 4340-4350 South Monaco Street PUD-G 34 rezoning (24-0617) approved 13-0. - Affordable Denver measure (24-0972) was ordered published as amended by an 8-5 vote, with Ayes: Gonzales-Gutierrez, Hinds, Kashmann, Lewis, Parady, Romero Campbell, Sandoval, Watson; Nays: Alvidrez, Flynn, Gilmore, Sawyer, Torres. Second reading is scheduled for August 19, 2024; if approved, the 0.50% sales tax question would go to voters on November 5, 2024. - Council announced that the Westwood rezoning (24-0937) required public hearing will be held September 9, 2024, with protests due by noon on September 3, 2024. - Resolution 24-0976 was postponed to August 19, 2024.

The mayor and city council began this weekly session with introductions and announcements, including several National Night Out events. The primary agenda item was an update on the National Western Center campus, focusing on construction progress on phases one and two and the launch of a community-driven scenario planning process for the Triangle (future phases 3–8). The presentation covered efforts to form a community work group to help design engagement for the long-range planning, with a target of delivering a master plan by spring 2025. Council members discussed community benefits, representation, compensation for participants, and the need to address historical injustices in the Globeville, Elyria, and Swansea (GES) neighborhoods. The meeting concluded with a motion to go into executive session to discuss ongoing litigation. Announcements Councilman Alvidrez and Councilman Hines announced multiple National Night Out events on the evening of August 6, including a location at Community Ministries, Skyline Park, and near the Denver Zoo and Museum of Nature and Science. Discussion Items National Western Center Construction Update: Mike Bouchard, executive director of the Mayor's Office of the National Western Center, reported that the Livestock Center is on track for completion by October 2025 and debut at the January 2026 stock show. The building includes 3,400 fixed seats (expandable to 5,000), 185,000 square feet of expo hall space, and will host a variety of events year-round. Other remaining phase one and two projects include an equestrian center, hotel, parking garage, and two pedestrian bridges (one over three rail lines and the Betty Cram/48th Avenue Bridge over the South Platte River). Triangle Scenario Planning: The mayor pledged in March to initiate a community-driven process for the Triangle land (50–75 acres southeast of the tracks). A six-month-plus scenario planning effort will begin in October 2024, aiming to produce a master plan by spring 2025. The planning will explore land uses and incorporate community feedback. Community Engagement Work Group: A work group of GES residents and workers is being formed to co-create the engagement strategy for the scenario planning. The city received 22 applications, of which 5 (about 23%) are new voices never previously involved in National Western Center planning. The work group will consist of approximately 10–12 members, with selection based on roles and responsibilities shared in the application. Members will receive a stipend. The first meeting will cover history, governance, and engagement framework. Community Ownership and Benefits: Mayor Johnston described interest in structures such as a community land trust or neighborhood investment trust to direct development benefits to residents, build generational wealth, and preserve affordability. Councilman Gonzalez-Cutieres raised concerns about the current board representation having only two community members, and urged more balanced representation in ongoing processes. Coliseum Site and Environmental Remediation: The discussion identified the Coliseum parking lot south of I-70 as a key area needing environmental remediation. The city is exploring federal support, including potential use of Army Corps funds, to address contamination that also impacts the river. Historical Context: Council President shared a personal perspective on the multi-generational harm from three Superfund sites in the GES community, stressed the importance of acknowledging past injustices, and called for processes that truly honor community voices. Key Outcomes The scenario planning for the Triangle will proceed with a community engagement work group that will help shape the outreach process, not the land-use decisions themselves. The group's recommendations will inform a broader scenario planning effort open to all community members. The mayor's office, in coordination with Councilman Watson's office, Nuco, and at-large council, will finalize the work group membership starting the week of August 12. The city aims to have a completed master plan for the Triangle by spring 2025. Council members requested future updates on phases one and two construction, budget, and the hotel/equestrian center/parking garage, with a commitment to present to the Budget and Policy Committee on October 14. The council unanimously voted to move into executive session (pursuant to DRMC 234A3 and 6) to discuss settlement of ongoing litigation against the city.

The Denver City Council met on Monday, August 5, 2024, at 3:30 PM in the Cathy Reynolds City Council Chamber, with Council President Amanda P. Sandoval presiding. Twelve members were present (Councilmember Kashmann absent). The meeting included proclamations, resolutions, bills for introduction and final consideration, and two public hearings on zoning changes. Several items were postponed, and a robust discussion occurred regarding the Downtown Area Plan and parks equipment purchases. Proclamations - 24-1022: A proclamation honoring the grand opening of "The Mothership," a shelter for youth operated by Urban Peak, was adopted unanimously (12-0). Councilmembers expressed gratitude for the trauma-informed design and services. - 24-1021: A proclamation recognizing the Annual Brothers Redevelopment and Denver Employee Volunteer Opportunities Paint-A-Thon Day on August 10, 2024, was adopted (10-0, with three members absent during the vote). Consent Calendar - The following resolutions and bills were adopted en bloc in a single vote (12-0): - Resolutions: 24-0950 (HUD grant for teen library space), 24-0953 and 24-0954 (Denver Foundation mini-grants and technical assistance), 24-0945 (Kone Inc. elevator maintenance), 24-0946 (Solutions Mechanical LLC appliance repair), 24-0947 (CPS Distributors backflow replacements), 24-0948 (Graybar Electric AV equipment), 24-0955 (set public hearing for DC Metropolitan District), 24-0957 (Emergency Food and Shelter Grant), 24-0959 (FEMA Shelter and Services Program), 24-0960, 24-0961, 24-0962, 24-0963, 24-0965, 24-0967 (various appointments and reappointments), 24-0938 (revocable permit at 16th and Champa), 24-0941, 24-0942, 24-0943, 24-0944 (street and alley dedications), 24-0798 (Bayaud Enterprises TANF services), 24-0800 (Goodwill of Colorado TANF services), 24-0818 (Clayton Early Learning Head Start), 24-0922, 24-0923, 24-0924 (amended agreements for recovery and RISE programs), 24-0936 (Community Services Block Grant), 24-0949 (Carfax crash reports), 24-0951 (Criminal Justice Early Intervention Grant). - Bills for Final Consideration: 24-0897 (Colfax Mayfair Business Improvement District renewal), 24-0929 (charter amendment on elected officials' salaries), 24-0912 (vacation of right-of-way at Colfax and Knox), 24-0882 (community corrections program agreement). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Hearing on 24-0795 (2449 North Newport Street rezoning): One speaker, Jesse Parris, spoke in favor of the rezoning to allow an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) but expressed concerns about potential displacement and short-term rental use. The applicant explained the ADU is intended for aging parents. The bill passed 10-0. - Public Hearing on 24-0694 (nine properties in District 6 rezoning): The same speaker, Jesse Parris, testified in support of ADUs generally but raised concerns about short-term rentals and lack of affordable housing guarantees. Councilmember Flynn questioned the primary residence rule. The bill passed 11-0. Discussion Items - 24-0913 and 24-0914 (Downtown Area Plan contracts): Resolutions to approve a $1,000,000 contract with Sasaki Associates and a $1,000,000 funding agreement with Downtown Denver Partnership for updating the Downtown Area Plan. Councilmember Lewis expressed concern that the funds should go directly to struggling small businesses, and voted no. Councilmember Torres thanked staff for addressing her previous concerns about the Burnham area. Councilmember Hinds supported the update, noting the 2007 plan is outdated. The resolutions were adopted 11-1 (Lewis opposed). - 24-0919, 24-0920, 24-0921 (Parks equipment purchase orders): Councilmember Parady raised climate concerns about large purchases of gas-powered equipment for parks and golf courses. She referenced conversations with the Regional Air Quality Council, which noted that small engines are a growing source of ozone precursors and that state regulations may restrict future use. All three resolutions were postponed to August 19, 2024 (11-0 on 24-0919, with Romero Campbell abstaining; 12-0 on 24-0920 and 24-0921). - 24-0957 and 24-0959 (FEMA grants): Councilmember Alvidrez asked about funding amounts ($2.8 million and $4.8 million, respectively) and whether they replace existing local funds. Dan Fechter of Finance explained these are reimbursement grants covering costs from December 2022 and October 2023, supplementing local resources. No further action needed. - 24-0952 (Denver Youth Employment Program): Councilmember Lewis praised the doubling of funds to $3,000,000 for the summer youth employment program. The bill was ordered published. - 24-0909 (Santa Fe Pedestrian Mall dissolution): Councilmember Alvidrez moved to postpone to August 26, 2024, to allow time to return remaining funds to small businesses. The motion passed 12-0. - 24-0964 (Community Corrections Board appointment): Councilmember Parady requested a one-week postponement to August 12, 2024, to ask questions about screening for conflicts of interest. The motion passed 12-0. Key Outcomes - Adopted: Proclamations 24-1022 and 24-1021; all consent calendar items; resolutions 24-0913 and 24-0914 (with one nay); bills for final consideration 24-0897, 24-0929, 24-0912, 24-0882. - Postponed: Resolutions 24-0964 (to August 12), 24-0919, 24-0920, 24-0921 (to August 19), and Bill 24-0909 (to August 26). - Passed Following Public Hearings: Council Bill 24-0795 (rezoning at 2449 North Newport Street) and Council Bill 24-0694 (rezoning nine properties in District 6) were both placed upon final consideration and do pass. - Next Meeting: The Council will hold a public hearing on August 12, 2024, for Council Bill 24-0915 designating 5086 Vrain Street as a structure for preservation.