Public Meetings - Denver, Colorado

On November 28, 2023, at 8:30 AM, the Denver City Council convened a brief public session before entering an executive session. The meeting included introductions, announcements from council members, and a motion to move into closed session for discussions on real property and collective bargaining negotiations. The public session lasted only a few minutes. Announcements - Councilman Flynn announced a drive-through toy drive in Council District 2 on Saturday, December 2, 2023, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at his office in the Bear Valley shopping center (behind the car wash at Dartmouth and Yates). He encouraged attendees to bring new, unwrapped toys and noted that Santa, an antique police car, and an antique fire truck would be present. - Councilwoman Mary Campbell announced two events: a senior luncheon on Wednesday (date not specified) at the Welsh Shire in Southeast Denver, and a community information meeting about the family shelter in Southeast Denver on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Hamilton Middle School cafeteria. - Mayor expressed gratitude to council members for their direct outreach to migrants and newcomers, specifically mentioning Councilman Parady for driving folks to shelter over the weekend. Executive Session Motion - The council moved to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 233 C1 and 234 A34 and 6 to discuss ongoing negotiations of contracts to potentially acquire or use real property for shelter or housing, and for collective bargaining negotiations. A two-thirds vote of members present was required. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (all in favor, no opposed). The council then entered executive session.

The mayor and city council members met on November 21, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. in a celebratory post-budget completion session. The mayor congratulated the council on passing the first unanimous city budget since 2017. The planned agenda included briefings on the state special session and property taxes, federal budget negotiations, and an executive session on collective bargaining. No agenda or minutes were provided; this summary is based on the raw transcript, which covers introductions and council announcements. Introductions - Councilmembers present: Flor Alvidres (District 7), Diana Romero Campbell (District 4), Garrett Watson (District 9), Amanda Sandoval (District 1), Chris Hines (District 10), Sarah Parody (At-Large), Paul Cashman (District 6), Kevin Flynn (District 2), and Jamie Torres (District 3). Announcements - Councilwoman Alvidres announced that next week is the Turkey Trot and that training is going strong, noting it has been good for her mental health. - Councilman Watson announced the first Barbershop Talks, to be held tomorrow evening at House of Hair, 5023 East 28th Avenue, featuring former Speaker of the House Terrence Carroll and current Senator James Coleman. - Council President Pro Tem Sandoval announced that the city-school coordinating commission committee passed last night and set a date to convene in January. President Torres will appoint two council members to the committee. Sandoval expressed hope for a different relationship with DPS and emphasized supporting students, teachers, and the next seven generations of Denverites. - Councilwoman Romero Campbell promoted turkey trot events in Southeast Denver and announced a senior luncheon on Wednesday, November 29 at 11:30 a.m. at Welshire, with live music, lunch, and treats. - Councilman Hines asked the mayor about a Friday 5:15 p.m. event, possibly digital tree related. The mayor confirmed he would be lighting the tree Friday afternoon. Key Outcomes - The mayor noted that the city budget passed unanimously last night, the first unanimous budget since 2017. - No formal votes or decisions were captured in the available transcript; the meeting concluded with announcements and an anticipated executive session.

On November 15, 2023, at 8:15 AM, Mayor Michael Johnston and the Denver City Council held their weekly session. The meeting opened with congratulations on the unanimous passage of the 2024 budget the previous night—the first unanimous budget since 2017. The agenda included council announcements, a briefing on the upcoming state legislative special session regarding property taxes, and an update on federal government funding negotiations. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining. Announcements - Councilwoman Flora Alvidres (District 7) promoted the upcoming Turkey Trot and noted its benefits for mental health. - Councilman Daryl Watson (District 9) announced the first Barbershop Talks event at House of Hair, featuring former Speaker of the House Terrance Carroll and Senator James Coleman. - Councilwoman Jamie Torres (District 3, President Pro Tem) announced that the City School Coordinating Commission passed the previous night, with a convening date set for January 2024. She noted that two council members would be appointed by President Torres, and expressed hope for a new relationship with Denver Public Schools. - Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell (District 4) promoted a senior luncheon on November 29 at 11:30 AM at Welshire, with live music and lunch. - Councilman Chris Hines announced the lighting of the largest digital tree in the nation at Civic Center Park on Friday, November 17, after 5 PM, alongside the opening of Christkindl Market. - Councilman Paul Cashman noted that the budget, while historic, left many programs underfunded—such as after-school programs and rental assistance—and called for exploring new funding sources. State Legislative Special Session - Adam Berg, Director of State and Federal Affairs, briefed the council on the special session called by the governor for Friday, November 17, 2023, at 9 AM, following the failure of Proposition HH. The session's scope is limited to property tax relief and a summer EBT program. - Property taxes are projected to increase 40–50% due to a cliff from prior legislation. The special session aims to reduce statewide assessments, increase the homestead exemption, and fully fund schools and fire districts for lost revenue. The city will prioritize ensuring fair backfill, as Denver is a city and county combined, which may affect the backfill rate. - Other proposals under discussion include increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and a rental assistance mechanism. The EBT program would draw down about $35 million in federal funds for 300,000 children, with no fiscal impact on the county. - Councilman Kevin Flynn noted that Denver's 2012 2A limits property tax revenue growth to 6% plus local growth. He emphasized that the city can adjust mill levies and bank unused mills, providing flexibility. He cautioned against panic, noting property tax is only 11% of the city's budget. - Councilman Paul Cashman questioned the state's approach to education funding, noting Colorado ranks between 38th and 48th in K-12 funding and near 50th in teacher pay. Adam Berg confirmed and added that the state has underfunded education by over $10 billion since the negative factor (now the budget stabilization factor) was introduced in 2009. - Councilman Daryl Watson asked about protections for seniors. Berg responded that the homestead exemption is a key component, and housing will be a major topic in the 2024 regular session. Federal Update - Adam Berg reported on the federal government funding deadline of Friday, November 17, at 11:59 PM. House Republicans have proposed a laddered continuing resolution (CR) extending funding for some programs to January 19, 2024, and others to February 2, 2024. Notably, funding for Israel, Ukraine, and border security is not included in this proposal, though it is gaining traction. - The White House and Senate Democrats prefer a joint package including Israel, Ukraine, and immigration funding. Mayor Johnston noted that the worst-case scenario is a CR with no additional supplemental funding; the best case is a comprehensive package. Senator Michael Bennet is part of a bipartisan group working on immigration reform. - Councilman Daryl Watson requested an analysis of the economic impacts of federal instability. Berg agreed to provide updates, noting that politics (e.g., a resolution to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas) could affect negotiations. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the briefing topics. The meeting concluded with a unanimous motion (voice vote, all ayes) to enter executive session pursuant to DRMC 233 C1 and 234 A3 and 6 for the purpose of discussing collective bargaining negotiations. - The council noted that the 2024 budget had been passed unanimously the previous night (November 14, 2023), a historic first since 2017.

On November 14, 2023, the Denver Mayor and City Council convened for a post-budget completion meeting. The Mayor congratulated the council on passing the first unanimous budget in 6–7 years (since 2017). The agenda included council announcements, a briefing on Colorado's upcoming special legislative session on property taxes, an update on federal budget negotiations, and a move into executive session for collective bargaining. Announcements - Councilwoman Alvidres promoted the upcoming Turkey Trot and its mental health benefits. - Councilman Watson announced a barbershop talk event at House of Hair featuring former Speaker Terence Carroll and Senator James Coleman. - Councilwoman Sandoval reported that the city school coordinating commission committee passed last night, with a date set to convene in January; she encouraged council members to apply for the two appointed seats. - Councilwoman Romero Campbell highlighted two local Turkey Trots and a senior luncheon on November 29 at 11:30 a.m. at Welshire. - Councilman Hines invited the Mayor to the lighting of Denver's largest digital tree in Civic Center Park on Friday after 5 p.m., noting the Christkindl Market also opens Friday night. - Councilman Cashman expressed concern that the city still lacks funding for critical programs (e.g., after-school programs, rental assistance) and called for exploring new revenue sources. State Legislative Special Session Briefing - Adam Berg, Director of State and Federal Affairs, briefed the council on the special session called by Governor Polis for Friday, November 17, at 9 a.m., due to the failure of Proposition HH. - Property taxes are expected to increase 40–50% due to a cliff from prior legislation; the special session scope is limited to property tax relief and a summer EBT program (to access $35 million in federal drawdown for 300,000 children). - Proposed measures include reducing statewide assessment rates, increasing the homestead exemption, and backfilling schools and fire districts for lost revenue. The city's priority is ensuring fair backfill for Denver as a city and county combined, not just a county rate. - Councilman Clinton (as transcribed) discussed Denver's 2A property tax limit (6% plus local growth), noting that property tax revenues are only about 11% of the city's budget and the city can bank mills for future use. He advised patience until the legislature sets guidelines. - Councilman Cashman asked about education funding backfills; Berg noted Colorado ranks between 38th and 48th in K-12 funding, 48th–50th in higher education, and near 50th in teacher pay. The negative factor (budget stabilization factor) has led to over $10 billion in underfunded education, as Councilman Sawyer added. - Councilman Watson asked about senior property tax relief; Berg indicated the homestead exemption is the largest component under consideration. Federal Negotiations Briefing - Berg reported the federal government faces a Friday, November 17, 11:59 p.m. deadline to avoid a shutdown. House Republicans proposed a laddered continuing resolution (CR), extending funding for some programs to January 19 and others to February 2, with Israel/Ukraine/border security funding kept separate. - The Biden administration's $100 billion supplemental request remains pending. Senator Bennett is involved in bipartisan immigration negotiations. - The Mayor outlined the worst-case scenarios: (1) funding government without addressing Israel, Ukraine, or migrants; (2) funding only Israel; and the best outcome being a joint package including all three. He noted ongoing conversations with Senator Bennet and the negotiating team. Executive Session - The council unanimously voted to move into executive session pursuant to DRMC 23-3 C1 and 23-4 A3 and 6 to discuss collective bargaining negotiations. Key Outcomes - The council and Mayor celebrated the unanimous passage of the 2024 budget. - The special session briefing set expectations for the November 17 legislative session, with the city advocating for fair backfill and monitoring property tax relief measures. - The federal briefing highlighted the risk of a government shutdown and the need for a comprehensive funding package. - The council entered executive session for collective bargaining discussions.

This weekly meeting of the mayor and Denver City Council opened with announcements and then focused on an update from Mayor Johnston regarding the city's migrant support services and his recent trip to Washington, D.C. to advocate for federal assistance. Council members shared observations from the field, asked clarifying questions, and discussed policy challenges. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation. Announcements - Mayor Johnston praised the council for their collaborative work on the city budget, calling it "the best of what government does." - Councilman Watson announced a veterans' honor event on November 13 at City Council with the municipal band, and a barbershop talk series in District 9 starting November 15 at House of Hair. - Councilwoman Lewis announced a community redevelopment meeting for the DoubleTree at 4040 Quebec that evening, and a senior luncheon on December 8 at the DoubleTree on MLK and Quebec. - Councilwoman Alvidrez promoted the Turkey Trot race on Thanksgiving morning at Wash Park benefiting United Way. - Councilwoman Campbell reminded everyone that November 7 is Election Day, urging voters to drop off ballots by 7 p.m. Discussion Items Migrant Support Services Update (Mayor Johnston) Mayor Johnston reported on a trip to Washington, D.C. with mayors from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Houston, and El Paso. The coalition advocated for four key federal actions: 1. Speed up asylum adjudication – Currently there is a backlog of 1 million cases, with an average resolution time of 2–4 years. The mayor noted that 45% of asylum claims at the border appear viable, but only about 25% of those pursued (11% of total) are ultimately granted. He emphasized that expanding work visas could reduce the strain on the asylum system. 2. Increased federal resources – The initial supplemental proposal of $1.4 billion covers only 15–20% of city needs; the coalition is pushing for $5 billion, which would cover about 75% of needs. Mayor Johnston noted that the six cities alone face a combined $6–7 billion in costs for the next year. 3. Expand work authorization – The mayor advocated for granting work authorization immediately upon entry (parole or A-number). Currently, only Venezuelans who arrived before July 31, 2023, are eligible for work permits, and the share of ineligible arrivals grows daily. He stressed that 40–60% of those in Denver's shelter system could be eligible, but many are not being screened. 4. Coordinated entry system – The mayor contrasted the successful federal coordination for Ukrainian and Afghan refugees with the chaotic busing from Texas, calling for a national plan to place arrivals with work authorization in willing cities. Council members responded with questions and concerns: - Councilman Cashman asked about weekly spending; the mayor clarified it fluctuates between $1–2 million per week, averaging about $4,000 per person per month. - Councilwoman Gonzalez-Gutierrez raised the issue of sheltering days and family definitions, asking for data on how long families need shelter and whether policies can be more flexible. - Councilman Hines noted the disparity between border cities (which receive funding) and interior cities bearing the brunt of busing, and asked if the mayor had raised this in D.C. The mayor confirmed he had, and that he had reached out to Governor Abbott without response. - Councilwoman Parady commented that asylum courts were intentionally broken under the Trump administration, leading to low grant rates and long delays. She asked about support from Colorado's federal delegation and urged the city not to give in to pressure to close borders. The mayor confirmed the delegation is supportive but acknowledged the partisan nature of the debate. - Councilman Watson asked about "heat mapping" of migrant families and whether the city can differentiate between newcomers and the long-term unhoused population. The mayor said the city tracks unsheltered populations but does not currently distinguish by migrant status, though family-focused sites are being developed. - Councilwoman Sandoval shared a detailed account from an encampment visit, highlighting language barriers, inconsistent shelter policies (e.g., formula confiscation, narrow family definitions), and the emotional toll on park rangers who had to serve as interpreters. She urged better coordination, dual-language notices, and recognition of non-blood relatives. The mayor agreed to review policies with the new Department of Human Services head, Ann Ruby Baraga, and noted that the city is improving intake screening to identify those eligible for work authorization. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on migrant policy, but the council and mayor committed to continued collaboration and a deeper briefing at noon. - The mayor affirmed the city's humanitarian approach despite budget pressures, and promised to streamline shelter operations and expand screening for work authorization. - The meeting moved into executive session by unanimous vote (all ayes) to discuss a pending litigation settlement agreement, per DRMC 234A3N6.

This weekly meeting of the Mayor and Denver City Council, held on Halloween, began with community announcements and a presentation by the Mayor on the city's housing continuum of care and affordability strategy. Council members discussed prevention, shelter, long-term affordable housing goals, and funding challenges for rental assistance and migrant services. Announcements - Council President Torres announced West Denver Dia de los Muertos events on Santa Fe Drive (Friday) and Westwood (three-day weekend). - Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutierrez noted the Viva Colorado celebration was postponed, but altars and activities will be at Civic Center Park on November 4 from noon to 8 PM. - Councilman Watson promoted a trunk-or-treat at the National Western Stockyards on Halloween and a D9 community event at Randall's on November 3. - Councilman Cashman thanked Cook Park Recreation Center for a successful trunk-or-treat with three times the previous year's attendance. - Councilwoman Romero Campbell reminded residents to bundle children up for trick-or-treating and wear reflective gear. - Councilwoman Gilmore announced that the Mayor agreed to postpone the November 2 community meeting at Montbello High School to a later date. - Councilwoman Lewis announced a rezoning town hall for the Best Western at MLK Recreation Center on Saturday, November 4, from 2–3 PM. Discussion Items - The Mayor presented a slide deck outlining the housing continuum: homelessness prevention, emergency shelter, transitional housing, long-term affordable rentals, and homeownership. Emphasis was placed on permanently affordable deed-restricted units. - The Mayor stated that Denver is currently short about 50,000 affordable housing units. The goal of 3,000 new units per year would produce 25,000 units over eight years, roughly half the need. - Discussion highlighted the tension between funding rental assistance/eviction defense and maintaining a 15% reserve. The Mayor warned that migrant funding could run out by February or March 2024 if the reserve is tapped, and that collective bargaining with sheriffs is also unbudgeted for 2024. - Council President Torres linked housing stability to other policies (ADU construction, wage theft, small business supports) and requested a district-by-district affordable housing pipeline. - Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutierrez expressed full support for rental assistance and eviction defense, and hoped for a partnership to fully fund these programs. - Councilman Watson asked about office-to-housing conversions; the Mayor responded that a pilot is underway, 16 buildings have been identified, but cost per unit (potential $400,000) is a challenge for affordability. - Council President Torres also noted the need to engage private developers on including affordability in their projects. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - The Mayor agreed to postpone the November 2 Montbello community meeting to a later date. - The Mayor and council members committed to working together on a funding solution for rental assistance and eviction defense, with further discussions expected in the coming week. - The Mayor agreed to provide a deeper dive on affordable housing plans and district-by-district pipelines once the new HOST director is in place. - Council President Torres will follow up on district-specific housing conversations.

The Mayor and Denver City Council held their weekly session on October 24, 2023, featuring announcements from council members, discussions on the budget and migrant support, and a vote to enter an executive session. Announcements Councilman Chris Hines celebrated the designation of "Championship Way" outside Ball Arena, noting it is the only venue in American history to have three champions in two years. Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell promoted two upcoming events: a "Pupper Treat" at Eisenhower Rec Center and a Dia de los Muertos event at Shoemaker Elementary. Councilman Paul Cashman highlighted the ribbon cutting of a new playground at Cook Park, funded by a voter-approved bond issue, thanking Parks and Recreation for delivering the project. Councilwoman Serena Gonzalez Gutierrez invited the public to a Dia de los Muertos parade on Santa Fe Drive and festival at Civic Center Park on October 28th. Councilwoman Romero Campbell also recognized a proclamation for "National Lights on After School" and the importance of out-of-school programs. Council President Pro Tem Sandoval was recognized for her birthday. Council President Jamie Torres provided an update on the City School Coordinating Committee, stating it will be on first reading November 6th and final adoption November 13th. The Council President also recognized the 50th anniversary of Colorado's Stonewall, noting that over 300 people from the LGBTQ+ community addressed the council in chambers 50 years ago. Discussion Items Budget Process: Councilman Cashman noted the collaborative nature of the budget process, describing it as a "wrestling match" and a "closed bucket" where all parties act in good faith. The Mayor affirmed the administration's commitment to working collaboratively with the council to deliver a balanced budget on time. Migrant and Newcomer Support: The Mayor provided an update on the city's response to the influx of migrants. He stated the city is part of a coalition of mayors from New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D.C., Houston, and El Paso pushing for federal support. He highlighted President Biden's announcement of $1.4 billion in additional funding and noted the coalition is releasing a letter advocating for expedited work authorization, faster asylum case adjudication, and a coordinated arrival strategy. Key Outcomes Motion to Enter Executive Session: Councilman Hines made a motion to enter an executive session pursuant to DRMC 2-34 to discuss ongoing negotiations for real property acquisition or use for shelter or housing, and related legal advice. The motion passed unanimously, with no opposed votes.

At this weekly meeting, Mayor Mike Johnston and the Denver City Council heard announcements from council members, received a briefing on the organization of the mayor's office team, and discussed upcoming events and the budget public hearing. The meeting included no executive session, consent calendar, or public testimony. Announcements - Councilman Chris Hines announced a mascot event at Wazee and Speer on Monday, October 23 at noon, featuring mascots from Denver's three professional sports teams. - Councilwoman Flora Alvidres promoted the South Broadway Halloween Parade on Saturday, October 21, starting at 6 p.m. (gathering at 5 p.m.), calling it "funky, fun, and family friendly." - Councilman Paul Cashman (District 6) reminded that the city council will hold a public hearing on the FY2024 budget on Monday, October 23, at 7 p.m. (sign-up opens Friday, October 20, at denvergov.org/city-council). He noted it is councilwoman Sandoval's birthday. - Councilman Darrell Watson announced the induction of George Morrison Sr. into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame that evening at George Morrison Sr. Park, 5:00–6:30 p.m., with new interpretive signage. - Councilwoman Diana Romero Campbell announced a Día de los Muertos event at Shoemaker Elementary in Southeast Denver on Saturday, October 21, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., featuring dancers, face painting, and altar making. - Councilman Stacie Gilmore and Councilwoman Chantel Lewis discussed a community information meeting about the Stay Inn site at McGlone Academy that evening (5:30–6:30 p.m., 4500 Crown Boulevard). Gilmore requested a flyer and asked about child care; the meeting was posted 21 days prior. Discussion Items Mayor's Office Team Overview Mayor Johnston presented a detailed overview of the current structure of the mayor's office, including roles and responsibilities of senior staff. Key points: - Chief Operating Officer Janelle Ford oversees all city agencies with deputies Gretchen Hollara and Molly Urbino; a third deputy COO is yet to be hired. - Chief of Staff Jen (last name not given) manages scheduling (Evan U), advance and follow-up (Chase), and policy (Matt Ball). - Communications team led by Alex Rentoria, including Jose Salas, Aaron Powell (new digital), and Jordan (press). - Projects Office (Shannon Gifford, Jen Wellbourne, Josh Lapley) handles large projects (National Western, Mile High, River Mile, Ballerina). - Legislative Affairs: Dominic (deputy) and Angela (lead), Tim Hoffman, Adam Paul (regional affairs, former Lakewood mayor), Adam Berg (state/federal policy). - Boards and Commissions: Esther Lee Leach. - Outreach Team: Tron, Peter Lubembella, Alex Gutierrez, Andres Carrera. - Homelessness team (term-limited through January 17, 2024): Cole, Joshua, Millie, Perla, and Andy Phelps (replaced Matt Wilm, encampment resolution). - Agency heads requiring council confirmation: CFO Nicole Doheny (started Oct 16), City Attorney Carrie Tipper, CASRA Liz Babcock, DHS Anne Marie Baraga, OSCI Ben Sanders, CIO Suman Nalapati, DEN Phil Washington, interim HOST Sue Powers. Mayor noted additional appointees to be announced within the next 10–12 days. - Councilman Flynn asked about the term limit of the homelessness team (confirmed: January 17, 2024). - Council President Pro Tempore (likely Sarah Parady) asked about interim Parks and Recreation Director Lori Matthews; mayor confirmed she started two weeks ago. - Council President (likely Jamie Torres) asked which departments roll up under the deputy COOs; mayor said they will provide details when the third deputy is hired. - Councilman Hines suggested aligning the mayor's office structure with council committee structures. Key Outcomes - Mayor will distribute contact information for all mayor's office staff to council members. - Additional agency head appointments (including council confirmations) are expected within the next two weeks. - The budget public hearing is scheduled for Monday, October 23, 2023. - The Stay Inn community meeting will proceed as noticed; council staff will follow up with flyers. - No formal votes or resolutions were taken.

This weekly session of the Denver Mayor and City Council took place on October 10, 2023, at 8:30 AM. The agenda included council announcements, a detailed update on the migrant response from Mayor Mike Johnston, and a subsequent executive session to discuss settlement agreements. Council members asked questions and clarified operational details. Announcements - Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer (District 5) announced that Rose Hospital committed $1.2 million to safety and security upgrades (including lighting) after a crime mapping overlay with Denver Police Department identified a problematic parking lot at the hospital. - Councilman Darrell Watson (District 9) promoted a “Celebrating Black Authors” event on October 14, 2023, at Brother Jeff’s Cultural Center (2836 Walton Street) starting at 10 AM, and thanked Commander Stigler for his service in District 2 during the transition and Mayor’s Housing 1000 initiative. - Councilman Paul Cashman (District 6) reminded residents of a community meeting on October 11, 2023, at 5 PM at Ellis Elementary School (1651 South Dahlia Street) to discuss a proposed micro-community location on South Birch Street as part of Mayor’s Housing 1000. Discussion Items Migrant Update Mayor Johnston provided a comprehensive update on the migrant situation in Denver: - Current shelter population: Over 3,000 individuals; arrivals have slowed to 5–6 buses per day (down from 7–9 last week). - Shelter sites: Five hotels within Denver, one congregate church site, and one site in Adams County. The city is actively seeking additional non-congregate sites and working with other counties. - Total arrivals: Slightly over 20,000 migrants since the crisis began. Many are bused to Denver against their will and wish to go to other states; the city helps with onward travel. - Staffing: 175 on-call city employees working in shelters, plus an additional 40 employees provided by the state. - Length of stay: Families can stay up to 37 days; individuals up to 14 days. - Costs: Total city spending: $27 million. State reimbursement received: $3.5 million. Federal commitment (not yet received): $9.5 million. Current weekly spending: $1.5 million, which would imply a $75 million annualized cost if sustained. - Work authorization: Mayor welcomed federal changes for Venezuelans and CBP One applicants but urged faster work authorization for all arrivals. - Federal advocacy: The mayor is working with other mayors for more funding, adjudication capacity at the border, and expedited work authorization. A White House team is visiting Denver the week following the meeting. - State partnership: The governor has been supportive, providing staff and $3.5 million; the mayor has not requested a state emergency declaration but supports a regional approach. Council members asked clarifying questions and made suggestions: - Council President Pro Tem Sandoval confirmed reimbursement figures. - Councilman Watson asked about impacts on the District 9 Welcome Center; staff explained monitoring and shuttle arrangements. - Councilwoman Parody requested a deeper briefing on immigration law and push factors, and offered to help connect community resources. The mayor’s chief of staff, Jen, is the point person for federal advocacy. - Council President Torres announced plans for a weekly working group (Tuesdays 12–1 PM) for council briefings on the two city emergencies (migrant response and housing). - Councilman Cashman noted faith leaders in his district want to help and will connect with the mayor’s team. - Councilwoman Elidris asked about departmental roles; it was explained that the Department of Human Services leads operations, with support from HRCP and OEM. - Councilman Elidris asked about a state of emergency; the mayor stated the current declaration already enables needed flexibilities and funding. - Councilwoman Merrill Campbell asked about state-level engagement; the mayor confirmed ongoing coordination and suggested a statewide emergency may be worth exploring. Key Outcomes - The council moved into executive session (motioned and seconded, all in favor) to discuss settlement agreements under DRMC 23-4A(3) and (6). No further public business was conducted after that. - No formal votes were taken on migrant-related items, but the mayor committed to connecting council with the visiting federal team and to continue working with faith leaders and community partners. - Council President Torres will formalize a weekly working group for council briefings on emergency responses.