Public Meetings - Golden, Colorado

The Citizens Budget Advisory Committee (CBAC) of Golden, Colorado, met on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 7:31 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the City Council Chambers at 911 10th Street. Chair Loretta Huff presided, with Vice Chair Sandy Curran and members Chris Davell, Marv DeSelm, Dolly Kelly, Peter Luptovic, Karen Oxman, Bethany Thomas, Ross Fraser, Saoirse Charis-Graves, Jim Dale, and Kasia Zak present. Staff included Finance Director Joe Allaire and Interim City Manager Carly Lorentz. The committee reviewed the June 2026 tax report, the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), and the draft 2027-2028 operating budget, and made a funding recommendation. Finance Director Allaire also introduced new Accountant Jordan Edwards. Consent Calendar - The agenda was amended to add a City Manager update and to defer the CBAC bylaws discussion to October; the agenda was unanimously approved at 7:34 a.m. - The August 19, 2026, regular meeting minutes were unanimously approved at 7:35 a.m. Discussion Items - June 2026 Sales, Use, Lodging, and Marijuana Tax Report: Finance Director Joe Allaire reported generally encouraging mid-year results. Sales tax revenue in June totaled $2,714,329, up $89,157 (3.40%) from June 2025; year-to-date collections reached $12,192,116, up $353,162 (2.98%) and $79,504 above the seasonally adjusted budget. Out-of-city sales rose 7.91%, and South Golden, Colfax, North Golden, and Downtown Golden posted local gains. Use tax revenue totaled $460,270 in June, up $84,656 (22.54%) from June 2025, narrowing the year-to-date decline to 17.15%; audit and compliance activity recovered $466,224 in use tax audit revenue, with net audit revenue of $450,057 after $16,167 in refunds. Lodging tax totaled $328,108 in June, up from $269,078 in May but 4.0% below June 2025; year-to-date lodging tax was $1,208,854, $69,374 below budget and 5.5% below 2025. Marijuana tax brought in $63,082 in June, the highest month shown and 12.4% above June 2025; year-to-date marijuana tax reached $343,607, exceeding budget by $101,804 and 2025 by $47,539 (16.1%). - CBAC marijuana tax funding recommendation: CBAC discussed directing surplus marijuana tax revenue to community assistance. After an amendment, the committee unanimously approved a motion to recommend that $105,000 be given as appropriate to the needy through the marijuana fund for food insecurity and housing insecurity. Discussion recognized that the distribution details would be handled through proper channels, with input from staff such as Sarah. - 2025 ACFR / Audit Review: Joe Allaire highlighted the clean, unmodified audit opinion for fiscal year 2025. The City's total net position increased by approximately $16.6 million to $338.6 million, including $10.8 million from governmental activities and $5.8 million from business-type activities. About $263 million represents net investment in capital assets. The General Fund ended 2025 with a $14.8 million fund balance, of which approximately $11.7 million was unassigned, equal to 31.5% of General Fund expenditures and transfers out. The General Fund balance declined by about $8.7 million, largely due to transfers supporting capital projects. Combined governmental fund balances rose $37.3 million to $94.7 million, with the Sales and Use Tax Capital Improvement Fund at $67.5 million following the issuance of certificates of participation for the new Municipal Building. The Open Space Fund ended the year with a $5.2 million deficit tied to Ulysses Park improvements; the financial statements disclose a $6 million interfund advance from the Water, Cemetery Perpetual Care, and Medical Benefits funds, repayable at 2% interest over 15 years. Finance Department turnover was acknowledged. - Draft 2027-2028 Operating Budget: Allaire presented the working draft as a maintenance-oriented budget. Revenue assumptions include conservative 1.5% sales tax growth, with property taxes projected to decrease in 2027 and remain flat in 2028. The draft projects General Fund balance use of approximately $2.3 million in 2027 and $4 million in 2028, with projected ending fund balances of $13.9 million and $10 million, respectively - above the 20% reserve benchmark but with a narrower margin in 2028. Proposed transfers include $3.6 million to the Fire Fund in 2027 rising to $4.8 million in 2028, and a reduction in the Community Center transfer from $1.2 million to $200,000 per year, using the center's healthy fund balance without planned service reductions. Head count additions currently include two firefighters in 2028 and two grant-funded, time-limited sustainability positions; a possible conversion of a Community Service Officer to a patrol officer for creek enforcement is expected to go to City Council in October. Capital budget work remained in development, with a proposed budget scheduled for City Council on October 13, 2026. Some members expressed support for maintaining public safety and community center services while urging scrutiny of rising police, fire, and legal costs and of the Visit Golden marketing investment. Allaire and Lorentz responded that Visit Golden is being reviewed for transparency, business support, and strategic marketing. - City Manager update: Carly Lorentz reported on Ulysses Park security improvements, including cameras, design changes, and increased patrols; a successful drone show and employee picnic at the park; increased bear activity coinciding with trash contract changes and requests for bear-resistant containers; and start-up difficulties with the new HAWK signal near the Mines campus, including timing issues and traffic congestion. The PROTECT grant for Lena Gulch was in the process of being signed. One attendee raised concerns about REDI meeting transparency, asking that agendas and minutes be posted and meetings possibly streamed. Community Conversations - A committee member shared Golden United activities, including a meal program with Mines students, a mental wellness series, and a joint community dialogue with Mines Kickstart, as well as upcoming nonpartisan election forums. - The meeting adjourned at 9:30 a.m. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended and unanimously approved; August 19, 2026, minutes unanimously approved. - CBAC unanimously recommended allocating $105,000 from the marijuana tax fund for food insecurity and housing insecurity support through appropriate distribution channels. - CBAC requested that the fund balance line be added back to the bottom of fund pages in future budget documents. - Bylaws discussion, including virtual participation, was deferred to the October meeting. - The 2027-2028 budget remains a draft; CBAC will continue its review in October before final recommendations.

The Golden Planning Commission held a regular meeting on September 16, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. The primary agenda item was consideration of PC26-32, a new GURA (Golden Urban Renewal Authority) plan area boundary for The Junction property (51.2 acres at 5079 State Highway 93). The commission voted 5-2 to forward a recommendation of approval to City Council, finding the proposed urban renewal plan consistent with the 2026 Comprehensive Plan. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes from August 19, 2026: Approved with a note to correct the spelling of Grace Fleming’s name and to consider adding more detail (e.g., who made motions). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-agenda public comment: None offered. - Written comment received: An email was distributed to commissioners prior to the meeting expressing concerns about additional traffic on Highway 93 and water supply during drought. Staff acknowledged the comment and noted that detailed traffic and water studies will occur during future preliminary plat and site plan reviews, not at this stage. Discussion Items - PC26-32 – The Junction GURA Plan Area Boundary: Planning Supervisor Carl Onsager presented the proposal to establish a GURA plan area boundary for the recently annexed property (formerly Jefferson County open space, zoned M1 industrial and C1 commercial). The boundary designation would enable tax increment financing (TIF) to fund public improvements such as a pedestrian/bike bridge over Highway 93, a roundabout, and trail connections. The commission’s scope was limited to determining consistency with the city’s Comprehensive Plan. - Staff argued the proposal conforms with several Comprehensive Plan goals (e.g., multimodal connectivity, economic development, partnerships) and noted the city already zoned the site for development upon annexation. - Commissioners questioned the order of operations (GURA finding of blight before Planning Commission review), the future of the North Valley annexation area, water supply, and wildfire risk. Staff clarified that GURA acts first per statute, and water/fire details will be addressed in later entitlement applications. - Objections raised: Commissioner Webb called the proposal “sprawl” and questioned prioritizing M1 development given vacancy rates and the site’s location in a high fire risk zone. Commissioner Hilliard questioned the vacancy rate assumption in the TIF model. - Staff and economic development manager Tim Dwyer clarified that no city general funds are used; financing comes from developer equity, metro district bonds, and future TIF revenue (about $15 million in increment over 25 years, based on property taxes only). The developer is Evergreen Development. Key Outcomes - Vote on Resolution PC26-32 (recommending approval to City Council): Motion made and seconded. Roll call vote: 5 in favor (Commissioners St. Angelo, Rudder, Hilliard, Fraser; also noted “Yes” from two others – likely Klein and Swarred, though not explicitly listed); 2 opposed (Commissioners Sword and Webb). Commissioner Caldwell did not vote (full regular member seated). The motion carried. - Next steps: The recommendation will be forwarded to City Council for a final decision. Additionally, staff noted an appeal from an August 19th hearing will go to City Council on October 13, 2026, and code amendment work (sliding scale) is ongoing. The commission’s next regular meeting is October 7, 2026.

The Golden City Council held a special business meeting on September 15, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 911 10th Street, Golden, Colorado. All seven councilors were present, and Mayor Weinberg declared a quorum. The primary action was adoption of Resolution No. 3357, authorizing a contract with Hoffmann Parker Wilson & Carberry, P.C. for outside legal counsel to advise on a third-party investigation. The meeting adjourned at 6:57 p.m. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the September 8, 2026 City Council meeting were approved unanimously (7-0) via a motion by Councilor Cameron, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Vitry. Public Comments & Testimony - No in-person public commenters attended. Emailed comments received before 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting were acknowledged and had been published on the city website. The public comment period was opened and closed at 6:31 p.m.; no council/staff response was given. Council/Staff Comments & New Business - Councilor Kurzinski reported that Ward 1, District 1, and District 2 meet-and-greet locations were still being confirmed. - Councilor Pfau provided the subcommittee update: all interviewed firms had been informed of the council's decision regarding outside counsel; city staff advised that the City Clerk is the best point of contact for sharing information with outside counsel, and this was communicated to Corey Hoffman; City Attorney Sandra Llanes completed negotiating the contract with Hoffmann Parker Wilson & Carberry, P.C.; the subcommittee recommends an executive session at the September 22, 2026, City Council meeting for Hoffman to provide legal advice. - Councilor Cameron reported that an unhoused individual who had resided in Golden for 16 years found permanent supportive housing, crediting the persistence of city co-responders and the homeless navigator. He also expressed strong frustration over vandalism, stating that e-moto riders tore apart a demonstration crevice garden at White Ash Park and turned it into ramps, and that Ulysses Park sustained tens of thousands of dollars in damage shortly after reopening. He said this affects the city budget and urged parents to talk to their children about appropriate behavior. - Councilor Evans requested an update on e-moto enforcement. Acting City Manager Carly Lorentz said an internal working group met that day and will present the issues and potential options to the MTAB in the next month or two, followed by a City Council study session (currently scheduled for December 8). In response to Councilor Evans' question, Lorentz confirmed increased enforcement presence, including at White Ash Park, with new signage. - Mayor Weinberg noted that September 15 is National Voter Registration Day and encouraged residents to check their JeffCo voter registration status and sign up for ballot notifications (ballots begin mailing October 5). Discussion Items - Resolution No. 3357 — Contract with Hoffmann Parker Wilson & Carberry, P.C. for Third-Party Investigation Support - The subcommittee explained that outside legal counsel will advise the council on proceeding with a third-party investigation. The firm was selected from several strong contenders based on references, subject-matter expertise, live experience within the firm, and cost management. Councilor Vitry noted for the record that Kendra Carberry is a partner in the firm and that the city already contracts with her as hearing officer, with her performance and compensation determined solely by City Council. - Contract terms: hourly billing with a $20,000 cap for legal counsel and a $35,000 cap for the third-party investigation (referred to in the transcript as the "ILG" investigation); if the caps are reached, the parties must return to council for reauthorization of an extension. Councilor Cameron calculated that $20,000 equals roughly 82 hours at a blended rate. The cost estimates were derived from HR guidance on prior investigations and expected interview hours multiplied by hourly rates. - Positions: Councilor Vitry expressed support for a neutral third-party legal team but voiced concern that the resolution's language could introduce confirmation bias and promote anxiety in the workplace, citing the word "consequences." Councilor Cameron moved to strike the 4th and 5th whereas clauses from the resolution, with Councilor Knecht seconding; Cameron then amended his motion to also strike the word "consequences" from the 6th whereas clause, with Knecht seconding. Key Outcomes - The motion to amend the resolution (striking the 4th and 5th whereas clauses and removing the word "consequences" from the 6th whereas clause) passed unanimously (7-0). - Resolution No. 3357, as amended, was adopted unanimously (7-0), authorizing the contract with Hoffmann Parker Wilson & Carberry, P.C. to assist in conducting a third-party investigation. - Next steps: the council subcommittee will remain the single point of contact with outside counsel, and an executive session with Corey Hoffman is planned for the September 22, 2026, City Council meeting to discuss the contract and the scope of the investigation. - Note on discrepancies: the agenda spells the firm name "Hoffmann Parker Wilson & Carberry, P.C." while the minutes use "Hoffman Parker Wilson & Carberry"; this summary uses the agenda spelling. The agenda also lists item 8 (Resolution No. 3357) twice, while the minutes reflect a single consideration of the resolution.

The Golden Urban Renewal Authority (GURA) Board of Commissioners met at 5:30 p.m. on September 14, 2026, at 911 10th Street, Golden, Colorado. The board administered the oath of office to new members, approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, heard a financial feasibility briefing on The Junction Urban Renewal Plan, received a progress update on the Nazarene affordable housing project, discussed the October meeting date, and reviewed commissioner updates. No substantive votes were taken beyond routine approvals. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 14, 2026 meeting agenda. - Approved the regular business meeting minutes of August 10, 2026, and the special meeting minutes of August 24, 2026. - Staff reported the 2026 budget is up to date with no changes from the prior month. Public Comments & Testimony - One member of the public expressed concern that The Junction project contains no affordable housing, which the commenter called a high priority for the City of Golden. The commenter also questioned whether GURA is bound by the City Charter's affordable housing amendment, noting that lawyers have argued the urban renewal authority is not subject to that charter amendment, that nobody has tested the question, and that the commenter did not plan to test it either. Discussion Items The Junction Plan Area – Urban Renewal Plan Feasibility Report - Andrew Arnold of Piper Sandler Special District Group presented the Feasibility Report dated September 4, 2026, prepared with Pioneer Development Company. Supporting documents included the August 4, 2026 conditions (blight) survey, the draft Urban Renewal Plan (August 2026), the August 12, 2026 Impact Report, and the August 12, 2026 underwriting report for 1260 Brickyard Road. The board had previously reviewed draft plan materials at the August 24, 2026 special meeting, where Commissioner Cameron expressed concerns and staff confirmed materials would be available before the next meeting. - The report concluded that The Junction—a single-parcel light industrial business park—is not feasible without the Urban Renewal Plan and its tax increment financing. Without the plan, $44.9 million of required public infrastructure would have no funding, and rents would need to exceed $23 per square foot, a price point the market does not support. The plan would capture tax increment for the full 25-year period permitted by Colorado Urban Renewal Law; when the plan sunsets in 2051, the full assessed value of the business park returns to the regular tax rolls. - A commissioner, speaking as a GURA board member and not as a city councilor, asked what would happen to public amenities if the financing did not come through, whether a two-phase approach (with phase one completion raised around 2030) would change the calculation, and what the remaining infrastructure burden would be if items the City requested were excluded—and how that compares with a typical project's infrastructure budget. - Commissioner Allison asked what specifically the City of Golden had requested, and another commissioner urged the board not to lose sight of that question. The board took no vote; the presentation was informational. Next steps discussed included returning to the board with recommended agreements, followed by approval of the Urban Renewal Plan by the Planning Commission and City Council. 17455 West 16th Avenue – Nazarene Project Update - Shannahan Development, the project developer, reported progress on the affordable housing project. The project recently secured a land banking grant, is working with the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA), and anticipates closing on the land before the end of the year. GURA previously approved negotiating an urban renewal agreement for the Nazarene Plan Area. - Board members discussed Golden's broader affordable housing work, including another affordable housing project currently under construction at 14th and Washington, and noted a 10 percent bump associated with modular construction, under the assumption that the savings would be passed through. October Meeting Date - Staff requested rescheduling the October meeting because October 12, 2026, is a holiday. The board discussed October 5 as a possible alternative date; room availability was unconfirmed, and no formal vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Routine approvals only: the agenda and the August 10 and August 24 minutes were approved. - The board received The Junction Feasibility Report with no formal action; financial analysis will continue, with recommended agreements to return to the board before the plan advances to the Planning Commission and City Council. - The Nazarene project is moving forward under GURA's prior authorization to negotiate an urban renewal agreement, with a land banking grant secured and an anticipated land closing before the end of 2026. - The October meeting will be rescheduled from October 12, with October 5 under discussion. Commissioners' Concerns and Updates - Grid Resiliency: Staff, in coordination with Golden Sustainability, has submitted a new grid resiliency grant application and continues internal coordination, including with NLR. - Parfet-Briarwood Community Garden Fence: Staff further investigated a GURA-funded fence replacement adjacent to the Parfet-Briarwood Plan Area. After discussions with garden members, the existing fence appears to serve their needs, and members raised a concern about a potential impaling hazard. The commissioner who raised the item said it does not need to move forward if community members are not interested. - Lena Gulch: An infrastructure update and request is expected at the October meeting. - Pending Land Use Cases: Per the August 10 minutes, Elevation Community Land Trust was expected to present its 17200 West Colfax Avenue project at the September 2026 meeting. At this meeting, the board noted that Miners House, an affordable housing project on West Colfax (described in the transcript as "next to the coal on West Colfax"), will present a project update and potentially a tax increment financing request at the October meeting.

The Economic Development Commission (EdComm) met on September 10, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers. Chair Hartman called the meeting to order with all members present (Atkins, Toy, Noppinger, Weisrock, Weiler, Trout). The agenda and the August 13, 2026 meeting minutes were approved unanimously. There was no public comment. Consent Calendar - Approval of the September 10, 2026 meeting agenda (moved by Atkins, seconded by Weisrock, all in favor). - Approval of the August 13, 2026 meeting notes (moved by Weisrock, seconded by Noppinger, all in favor). Discussion Items Makerspace Feasibility Study Update - Staff reported that a contract has been signed with Artspace Consultants for a preliminary Makerspace feasibility study, with a kickoff call scheduled for mid-October 2026. - Staff recommended forming a formal subcommittee to provide ongoing support. Board members Tracy Atkins and Nick Noppinger volunteered to serve, and Cindy Weisrock offered to serve as an alternate. The subcommittee will be ad hoc. - The board agreed to the subcommittee formation; no formal vote was taken. Economic Study Proposals and Dashboard Options - Staff presented two data visualization platforms: mySidewalk (narrative-driven, customizable, $5,500/year) and Lightcast (focused on labor market intelligence, $7,500–$10,000/year). Both offer trial access. - Staff noted challenges in obtaining city-level data because Golden’s population (under 65,000) limits data to American Community Survey (ACS) five-year estimates rather than single-year snapshots. - The board discussed key metrics to track, including industry clusters, housing data, sales tax stability, commuting patterns, quality of life indicators, and school quality. Board members emphasized starting with simple, objective data and growing over time. - Board members suggested coordinating with Jefferson County EDC and neighboring cities to avoid duplication and enhance data consistency. - Staff will compile a menu of available data from the platforms and from the prior Anderson Analytics economic contribution study for board ranking and prioritization. - Target implementation: 2027, using the 2027-2028 budget line item of $20,000 per year for such initiatives. Staff Report - 2026 Budget: No modifications; formal 2027-2028 budget discussions will begin next month. - Business Retention and Prospect Activity: Staff reported over 15 direct business contacts in the last month. A new aerospace company from Luxembourg is being recruited, with a sponsorship at the Colorado School of Mines career fair in September 2026. Staff will attend fall conferences (Downtown Colorado Inc., etc.). - Sales, Use, and Lodging Tax (May 2026): - Sales tax revenue through May 2026 was up 2.87% year-to-date compared to 2025 ($9,477,787 vs. $9,213,782). Collections are $89,688 behind budget but $264,005 ahead of the prior year. Out-of-city sales continue to drive growth. - Use tax revenue declined 22.97% year-to-date, but a $466,013 audit recovery (primarily from a local energy company’s software use tax) offset part of the decline. - Heritage Square experienced the largest year-over-year drop in sales tax at 20.09%. The Finance Department is monitoring. - Lodging tax revenue decreased; May 2026 collections were $45,267 lower than May 2025, and year-to-date collections are $62,993 behind budget. - Marijuana tax revenue continues to exceed budget projections and is on pace for a record year. - Communications: - DDA: Progress on downtown beautification; a Clayworks site tour is scheduled for September 15, 2026. Sweet Bloom Coffee will open a new location at Clayworks. - GURA: The Nazarene Plan Area developer secured grant financing; TIF negotiations will begin shortly. The board advanced The Junction Plan Area at a special meeting on August 24, with infrastructure challenges (sewer pumping, Highway 93 improvements, power constraints from Xcel Energy). - Golden Hour Mashup events continue on September 16 and October 14, 2026, with positive early feedback. Key Outcomes - Subcommittee Appointed: Atkins and Noppinger will serve on the ad hoc Makerspace subcommittee, with Weisrock as alternate. - Economic Dashboard Direction: Staff will provide a list of available data indicators and platforms for board ranking. The board supports prioritizing industry clusters, housing, sales tax stability, and quality-of-life metrics. Implementation targeted for 2027. - Upcoming Tour: Commissioners are invited to the Clayworks site visit on September 15, 2026, at 3:30 PM. - Commissioner Comments: Concerns were raised about bike lane damage from Google Fiber installations; the board will raise the issue of smoothness standards with city transportation colleagues. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:30 PM.

The Golden Historic Preservation Board met on September 9, 2026, at 6:31 PM at 911 10th Street. The board unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a project at 403 18th Street, which includes demolishing an existing barn, constructing a new two-car garage with a second-story studio, and adding a small bump-out to the primary residence. The meeting also discussed scheduling of the November meeting due to Veterans Day and received updates on board vacancies and the Pass Forward study. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was revised to add an item about the November 11th meeting under Other Matters and a board vacancy update under Staff Updates. The motion passed 6-0. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the August 12, 2026 regular meeting were approved 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period for non-agenda items. - A written comment from neighbor Tom Colangelo was read into the record expressing full support for the Coates’ application, noting their willingness to discuss plans and commitment to preserving the Cape Cod style. - During the public hearing for HPB 26-06, no one offered oral testimony. The board opened and closed the public comment period for that item. Discussion Items - HPB 26-06 – Certificate of Appropriateness for 403 18th Street: - Staff Presentation: Lauren Simmons summarized the proposal: demolition of an existing unpainted barn (structurally unsound, dirt floor, rotted framing), construction of a 904-square-foot two-car garage (with office/bedroom studio above) in a Cape Cod style, and a small addition to square off the west side of the house. The primary structure is a contributing Cape Cod style home. Staff recommended approving the demolition without a stay, noting the barn’s condition and low historic significance. For the garage and addition, staff found them generally compatible with the historic district but invited discussion on roof pitch, siding, and windows. - Applicant Presentation: Matt and Lauren Coates (owners) stated they moved in June 2026 to downsize and desired a walkable home near downtown Golden. They explained the addition was needed for kitchen space, and the garage would provide secure parking and extra living space (no kitchen in the studio). They chose a 12/12 roof pitch to match traditional Cape Cod proportions and accommodate a vehicle lift. Black windows were chosen as a contemporary nod while keeping the multi-light divided-lite style. - Board Deliberation: - Demolition: Board members agreed the barn was in very poor condition and not worth a stay. They recommended salvaging any reusable materials, with caution for possible asbestos/lead paint. - New Garage: Discussion focused on the roof pitch. Some members initially felt the 12/12 pitch was too steep, but after the applicant explained its proportionality and Cape Cod tradition, the board accepted it. The garage’s setback and tree coverage (from the street) made it unobtrusive. The matching siding and color scheme were approved. - Addition: The small bump-out was seen as positive, making the house more symmetrical. No objections to the proposed black windows. - Outcome: The board voted to approve the application with a condition to recycle materials where possible. Other Matters - October 2026 Meeting: Still scheduled for the regular date. The board will be joined by planner Camille Keys in place of Lauren Simmons. - November 2026 Meeting: The regular meeting falls on Veterans Day (November 11), a city holiday. Staff proposed either canceling the November meeting or rescheduling to Monday, November 9, at the planning offices at 1445 10th Street. After checking availability, four board members could attend on November 9. The board tentatively agreed to reschedule to November 9 if a case is pending, with a final decision to be made later based on workload. - Start Time Discussion: The board briefly considered changing the regular meeting start time from 6:30 PM to an earlier hour (e.g., 5:30 PM) to align with other commissions. This was tabled for a future meeting. Staff Updates - Board Vacancy: Linda Cummings resigned due to scheduling conflicts. The vacancy was reported to the city council subcommittee. The board is awaiting a replacement for her alternate position. - Pass Forward Study: In August, a focus group (including former board members, planning commissioners, architects, and residents) reviewed scenarios about board authority. They emphasized preserving the board’s role. A list of recommendations will be presented to city council at a study session in late October 2026. Key Outcomes - HPB 26-06 Approved: Motion by Trout, seconded by Sniff, to adopt the findings and conditions in Resolution HPB 26-06. The motion passed via roll call vote 6-0 (Rooney, Kalbfell, Sniff, Lierman, Trout, Keller all aye). Condition: “Recycle materials where possible.” - November Meeting Rescheduling: Tentatively set for Monday, November 9, 2026, at 6:30 PM, contingent on having a case to review. - Next Steps: The applicant will obtain necessary permits and comply with environmental testing (asbestos/lead) for demolition.

The City of Golden, Colorado, City Council convened a study session at 5:00 p.m. and a regular business meeting at 6:30 p.m. on September 8, 2026, in City Hall Council Chambers at 911 10th Street. The study session (chaired by Councilor Cameron) covered the Ore Cart transit Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) renewal and the city's overhead power line undergrounding policy. The regular meeting included public comment, council/staff updates, a subcommittee report on the third-party investigation, the Q3 Strategic Plan update, consent matters, four proclamations, Resolution 3354 (private activity bonds), and a public hearing on Resolution 3352 (Canyon View Business Park Replat C). Study Session – Ore Cart IGA Renewal and Budget - Principal Planner Matt Wempe sought Council feedback ahead of renegotiating the Ore Cart transit IGA with Colorado School of Mines (CSM). The current four-year IGA expires in July 2027; staff plan to bring the renewed agreement forward around spring 2027. - Staff reported an average cost increase of about 16% over the last four years, partly driven by Council-requested service expansions: the revamped gold route (now averaging 500–600 riders per week compared to about 4 per week four years ago), bike racks, Sunday service, and a professional driver core with 88 vehicles available across all routes. - Council members raised questions and suggestions about: marketing the Ore Cart to summer tourists (staff cited Google Maps/Transit app data sharing, Visit Golden outreach, and West Tracks/Jefferson County open-space connections); pursuing RTD partnership funding (noting Lone Tree Link received over $600,000 from RTD in the most recent year — Councillor Kaczinski suggested setting up a meeting with RTD representatives and the Ore Cart team); potential Jefferson County funding (West Metro micro-transit discussions are ongoing); and a possible new stop on 19th Street for Beverly Heights residents. - In response to a question about on-demand service, staff noted a 2024 on-demand pilot with the West Corridor Collaborative (state-funded) in which 85% of trips stayed within the city and fed the North Golden gold route reconfiguration. The federally funded South Golden Transit on-demand pilot is expected to begin next year; the RFP may be released in October. - Council members requested "not to exceed" contract language in the renegotiated IGA, distinguishing between Council-approved service additions (e.g., bike racks, weekend service) and unrequested program cost increases. Some members expressed concern about the shift away from student drivers; staff said professional staffing improved consistency and noted cost-containment efforts including driver scheduling, vehicle leasing versus purchasing, and in-house training. Study Session – Overhead Power Line Undergrounding Policy - Public Works Director Anne Beierle presented staff research and a recommendation to replace the city's outdated undergrounding policy for spending the 1% franchise fee funds (held in trust by Xcel Energy) on burying overhead lines. - Key eligibility constraint: only Xcel-owned primary lines (pole-to-pole distribution lines, analogous to water mains) are eligible for 1% funds. Secondary service lines connecting poles to homes and businesses are not eligible; property owners may face $10,000–$15,000 (reported as high as $30,000–$50,000) in reconnection and meter-upgrade costs. Communications utilities sharing poles have no comparable funding mechanism. - Wildfire risk reduction was the top priority for most council members. Councillor Vitry recommended using the city's Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) map, while Mayor Weinberg suggested first reviewing Xcel's own risk map because Xcel may already be prioritizing some areas for its own undergrounding. - Economic development/aesthetics was ranked lowest; one council member stated they would oppose spending $4 million for aesthetic reasons. Another member suggested adding a cost-per-linear-foot metric to prioritize the least expensive lines first. - Councillor Evans noted that burying a section of primary line will not prevent public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) if upstream feeders and lines remain overhead. Councillor Connett supported wildfire resiliency and raised considering covered (coated) primary lines or line hardening as alternatives during upcoming franchise agreement discussions. - Staff cited two illustrative cost estimates: approximately $1.2 million near Parry Parkway (serving about 40 residents) and approximately $800,000 near Welch Ditch (serving about 17 residents); together these would consume roughly half of the current fund balance without covering secondary connections or communications lines. - Staff will return with a draft policy and resolution reflecting Council direction. Public Comments & Testimony - Ian Nutubsky, a resident of 1045 North Ford Street, described an August 14, 2026 gas leak incident involving a parked vehicle and criticized the city's handling, including receiving a nuisance summons. He also reported an August 26 parking citation for expired registration on an Illinois-plated vehicle, saying he passed his emissions test and is registering the vehicle on Thursday. He alleged he was targeted by a neighbor's complaint. - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for Resolution 3352. Council/Staff Comments and New Business - Councilor Cameron raised complaints about the new Hawk signal (pedestrian beacon) near the high school on 19th Street. Staff said a technical fix is working somewhat better, but behavioral challenges with students remain; the high school start time change to 8:15 a.m. has compounded morning issues. Staff will meet with Colorado School of Mines, and Councilor Vitry will observe at the Hawk site next week. - Councilor Kaczinski announced a resumed "meet and greet" on September 29 (location and time to be determined). - Councilor Connett discussed bear activity in Stonebridge and citywide bear-awareness efforts; announced "Cookies with Councilors" on September 14, 7–8 p.m., at Scully's Cafe at Mines; and noted a new business proposal regarding the city's use of Flock (license plate reader) technology, scheduled for the October 13 study session. - A council member noted an exploratory Clear Creek Forest Improvement District meeting next week and Golden hosting the CML fall district meeting at Fossil Trace next Wednesday. - Staff updates included: trash provider transition from Republic to 5280 with minimal issues (one missed pickup); ambulance provider transition to Intermountain Health completed; exploration of bear-resistant carts with 5280 (prioritizing residents without garages); new Jefferson County manager Laura Aldrit planning a visit to Golden; fall budget meetings underway; new part-time staff member Sarah Ott; and a successful employee picnic. Subcommittee Update – Third-Party Investigation - The subcommittee reported that nine attorneys were identified through the Colorado Municipal League (CML) and Investigations Law Group (ILG); four firms were interviewed and ranked on cost, availability, cultural competency, and subject-matter expertise. Corey Hoffman of Hoffman, Parker, Wilson & Carberry PC was prioritized as outside counsel. - All interviewed attorneys recommended that the ILG investigative contract be held through outside legal counsel to maximize flexibility regarding investigation results. A draft contract is in place, with a call with ILG scheduled for Thursday. - The subcommittee recommended a special council meeting on September 15, 2026, to endorse the outside counsel contract; a potential executive session on the investigation scope may occur the same evening or on September 22, at outside counsel's recommendation. Council members confirmed availability for September 15; notice will be posted after Thursday's determination. Staff Update – Third Quarter Strategic Plan - Management Analyst Claire Nomak reported that the comprehensive plan and community engagement initiative are complete, and most major initiatives are on target. - Highlights: Highway 93 North alternatives design (goal of reaching 30% design, likely extended); affordable housing funding with the Prop 123 commitment met for the year; regional homelessness coordination with 18 people onboarded into the Volunteer of America Navigation Center in Lakewood; federal policy monitoring including comments submitted on OMB grant program changes; and community engagement guide trainings. - Heart of Golden: Police/Municipal Building construction is on budget and on schedule (completion anticipated late spring 2027); East Amenity Zone design is progressing; Lyons Park Playground is seeking GoCo and Colorado Gives grant funding with a bid targeted for Q4 2026; Clear Creek South Trail is moving into CIP evaluation. - Wildfire resilience: urban tree canopy study underway (Davy Resource Group, due Q4); 105 sustainability rebate applications with more than $150,000 in rebates distributed; an additional residential preparedness meeting is scheduled for September 28; Beverly Heights egress route construction proposed for 2027 pending CDOT and Mines approvals; evacuation control plans reviewed for Beverly Heights, Mountain Ridge, Stonebridge, and Heritage Dells; Community Risk Assessment completion moved to Q1 2027 pending state review; Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) phase two underway with completion projected around mid-2027; goat grazing fuel mitigation completed in Heritage Dells (August–September 2026). - Council questions clarified that the municipal building schedule is unchanged since Q2, the tree canopy study covers the entire urban canopy, and the public rollout of evacuation routes is tied to the standards-of-cover review process. Consent Calendar - Council adopted, by one motion, items 7a–7d: Minutes of August 25, 2026; Resolution 3342 (construction contract with A-Fast Patch Inc. for repaving and patching alley segments 5707 and 5708); Resolution 3346 (Construction Manager/General Contractor contract with Concrete Express Inc. for the Lena Gulch Channel Improvements Project – Reach 1); and Resolution 3353 (Intergovernmental Agreement establishing the Clear Creek Trail Collaborative). Councilor Cameron applauded finding a solution for the long-troubled alley between 14th and 15th streets. - Item 7e (Resolution 3354) was pulled from consent by Councilor Kaczinski for separate discussion and vote. Proclamations - Council approved four proclamations: National Drive Electric Month (September 11–October 12, 2026); National Co-Responder and Crisis Responder Week (September 13–19, recognizing Drea Jones and Angela Gosalves); National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15–October 15, 2026); and Constitution Week (September 17–23, accepted by the Mount Lookout Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, which will ring bells at the Washington Avenue Welcome Center at 2 p.m. on September 17). Resolution 3354 – Private Activity Bond Assignment to Foothills Regional Housing - Affordable Housing Policy Coordinator Emily Arthur explained that Golden receives an annual allocation of private activity bonds (PABs) and must assign, relinquish, or carry them over by September 15. Golden has received PABs since 2023 and assigned them to Foothills Regional Housing in 2024 and 2025. - The resolution assigns the 2026 allocation to Foothills, with a non-binding "soft ask" that they consider using the funds for an eligible upcoming Golden project (Golden Range, a 4% low-income housing tax credit multifamily rental). The City Attorney confirmed the assignment is not conditional or binding to any particular project. One council member asked staff to verify Golden Range's eligibility within a Qualified Census Tract. - Council members praised the regional partnership, noting the assignment costs the city nothing and supports affordable housing across Jefferson County. The resolution passed unanimously by voice vote. Public Hearing – Resolution 3352: Canyon View Business Park Filing 2 Replat C - Planner Grace Fleming presented the final plat for the property at 1220 Brickyard Road (south of Pine Ridge Road, west side of Brickyard Road), originally platted June 26, 2014. Two of the three proposed lots are already built out; lot three's 2016 site plan has expired. Staff recommended approval, confirming compliance with the PUD, appropriate lot configurations, access, drainage, easements, and geotechnical constraints, and authorization to record the plat and companion drainage and maintenance agreement. - No public comments were made. Councilor Cameron confirmed that open space requirements were reviewed. Resolution 3352 passed unanimously by voice vote. Key Outcomes - Study Session: Council directed staff to renegotiate the Ore Cart IGA (due around spring 2027) with cost-containment language including "not to exceed" provisions, and to pursue RTD partnership funding and a possible 19th Street stop. - Study Session: Council directed staff to develop a new undergrounding policy prioritizing wildfire risk reduction (using the CWPP and Xcel risk maps) and 1% fund eligibility, with economic development/aesthetics as a low priority. - A special council meeting was scheduled for September 15, 2026, to consider the outside-counsel contract for the third-party investigation; executive session timing to be determined. - Consent items 7a–7d were adopted; Resolution 3354 was adopted unanimously; Resolution 3352 was adopted unanimously after a public hearing. Note: Meeting minutes for this session were not available in the source packet. The raw transcript contained some garbled passages and name spellings; names were reconciled against the agenda where identifiable.

The Community Marketing Board held a special meeting on September 1, 2026, at 5:45 PM (MT) to review and discuss the proposed budgets for 2027 and 2028. The meeting focused on detailed line items, including salaries, marketing contracts, visitor guides, and funding for the Golden Welcome Center. No formal vote was recorded in the transcript; the discussion appeared ongoing at the time of adjournment. Discussion Items - Salaries and Budget Adjustments: Staff explained that the 2027 salary line ($209,629) was higher than originally anticipated due to the transition of the Golden Greeter salary from the general fund to the Visit Golden budget. The 2026 salary figure ($165,123) was an error and will be adjusted upward. The increase from 2027 to 2028 (to $219,000) reflects standard cost-of-living adjustments and potential health benefit changes, as projected by city accounting. - Visitor Guide Design and Printing: The proposed $20,000 for visitor guide design in 2027 (down from $17,350 in 2026) includes two editions (winter/spring and summer/fall) with a focus on inspiration over ad sales. Printing and mailing ($15,000) sparked debate about whether to continue physical distribution. Board members suggested reducing print runs, charging shipping to non-residents, and using digital alternatives. Staff noted that the current model forces 35,000 copies, leaving excess inventory. - Media Buying and Council Feedback: The media buying line ($160,000 for DVA in 2027, plus $110,000 for management) was discussed in the context of recent City Council approval. One councilor opposed all marketing; another objected to the term "high-value visitors," which was subsequently removed from the proposal. The board acknowledged the need to refine messaging around visitor segmentation. - Group Sales Contractor: The proposed increase from $30,000 (2026) to $37,500 (2027) and $45,000 (2028) for a part-time group sales contractor was questioned. Staff justified it based on strategic plan priorities, including off-season visitation, the new Clayworks conference space, and the 2029 IPW convention in Denver. No contract has been issued yet. - Strategic Plan Implementation and Welcome Center Funding: The $18,000 line for strategic plan implementation (renamed from "strategic planning implementation") is intended for project-based work such as frontline staff training. This replaces the previous $20,000 monthly fee to the Golden Welcome Center, which will now need to bid for specific projects. Board members expressed concern about the optics of cutting the Welcome Center while increasing staff salaries. Others noted the Welcome Center receives other city support (e.g., a $1/year land lease) and can apply for grants. Staff emphasized the need to align expenditures with the strategic plan rather than historical relationships. - Other Line Items: The board briefly reviewed banners/maps, email marketing, memberships, and analytics. The microgrant program ($12,000) was confirmed as included under special projects. The brand refresh ($18,000 total) was split into research and visual identity phases. Key Outcomes - No formal vote on the budget was recorded in the transcript. Discussion was ongoing, with several board members requesting clarifications on the Welcome Center transition, group sales contracting, and printing costs. - The board asked staff to provide more details on the three-bid process for under-$20,000 projects and to give monthly updates on the strategic plan implementation line. - Staff will explore reducing visitor guide print runs and potentially charging shipping to non-residents. - The term "high-value visitors" has been removed from council-approved marketing materials.

On September 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM, the City of Golden hosted a Bear Aware community event at an unspecified location. Management Analyst Claire welcomed attendees, introduced Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) District Wildlife Manager Philip Sorensen as the primary presenter, and noted the presence of city sustainability staff to discuss trash management. The event was live-streamed and recorded for later viewing. Public Comments & Testimony - Residents raised multiple concerns and shared strategies: one asked for more bear signage in parks (e.g., Mason Meadows); another shared success with water gel blasters and pop-it balloons for hazing; a resident expressed concern about safely hazing bears and asked the city to distribute safety guidance; a parent described bears coming within inches of children and asked for paintball gun recommendations for marking bears; a landlord committed to adding bear-related lease clauses; a resident advocated for an online reporting tool for bear sightings; a resident asked whether bears eat dog feces; a resident suggested the city add bear information to its trash webpage; two residents discussed the effectiveness of latches and ratchet straps on trash carts. Discussion Items - Bear Biology and Conflict Prevention (Philip Sorensen): Philip detailed black bear biology (only species in Colorado, color phases, hyperphagia, diet, and reproduction). He emphasized that 2026 is the worst bear conflict year in 20 years due to drought, late frost leading to near-100% mast failure, and habitat encroachment. He outlined key attractants (trash, bird feeders, grills, pet food, fruit trees) and urged residents to secure attractants, store trash in garages until service day, and use aversive conditioning (air horns, paintball guns, bear spray, motion lights, radios). He warned against BB/pellet guns and stressed that relocation is rarely effective (bears often return within days). He also mentioned a new state law (effective August 12, 2026) that lowers the mental state for feeding big game to “knowingly,” with fines up to $2,000–$5,000 on a third offense. - Trash Management (City Sustainability Manager): The manager demonstrated bear-resistant cart latches and locks (available at Amazon or through the city’s trash program covering about 60% of residents). He recommended cleaning carts with ammonia to deter bears, storing carts in garages or sheds, and putting extra bagged trash out only on service day. The city plans to apply for a CPW grant in May to purchase a limited supply of bear-resistant carts. - Hazing Tools and Safety: Philip recommended avoiding any unsafe confrontation; hazing can be done from inside a home or via car alarms. He advised using bear spray (fog type for general targeting, stream for precise shots) and cautioned about wind and residual effect. He reiterated that electricity is the most effective solution for permanent structures like chicken coops. Key Outcomes - The City of Golden will apply for a CPW grant to fund bear-resistant trash carts for residents. - Residents were encouraged to modify their existing carts with aftermarket latches (city-approved drill modifications) or use ratchet straps. - CPW will consider adding more bear signage in areas like Mason Meadows upon request. - The city will explore adding bear-safety information to its trash webpage and potentially developing an online reporting tool for bear sightings. - Attendees were reminded to report bears showing aggression or entering homes to CPW (phone number provided) or call 911 for emergencies, though response times may be 2–3 hours. - No formal votes were taken; the event was purely educational.