Hey Denver, it's time for the weekly general session of your Denver City Council.

Tonight's coverage of Denver City Council starts now.

Um, uh good afternoon, everyone.

Thank you for taking the time to join us for Denver City's Council meeting.

Today is Monday, October 20th, 2025.

Tonight's meeting is being interpreted into Spanish.

Sam or Jasmine, would you please introduce yourself and let your viewers know how to enable translation on their devices?

Yes, of course.

Thank you for having us.

Hello, everyone.

My name is Sam Guzman with the CLC, joining you virtually.

And uh, along with my colleague Jasmine, we will be interpreting today's meeting into Spanish.

Please allow me a quick minute while I give instructions in Spanish on how to access interpretation.

Excuse me, parascuchar in Espanyol.

Muchas gracias.

Thank you very much.

Thank you very much, Sam.

Welcome to the Denver City Council meeting on Monday, October 20th, 2025.

Council members, please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.

And to the Republic for which it stands.

Council members, we please join Council Member Gonzales Cutieres as they lead us in the Denver City Council land acknowledgement.

Uh what do you say, Councilmember?

I can't hear you.

Your mic's not on.

I'm so sorry.

Give me one brief moment.

I'm so sorry.

Do you need me to send you the link?

I have it right here.

Thank you.

Yep.

I had to restart my computer earlier, so you know how that goes.

Everything closes down.

All right.

Uh, the Denver City Council honors and acknowledges that the land on which we reside is the traditional territory of the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapahoe Peoples.

We also recognize the 48 contemporary tribal nations that are historically tied to the lands that make up the state of Colorado.

We honor elders past, present, and future, and those who have stewarded this land throughout generations.

We also recognize that government, academic, and cultural institutions were founded upon and continue to enact exclusions and erasures of indigenous peoples.

May this acknowledgement demonstrate a commitment to working to dismantle ongoing legacies of oppression and inequities and recognize the current and future contributions of indigenous communities in Denver.

Thank you.

Councilmembers Lewis.

Albitros here.

Lynn.

Here.

Heinz.

Here.

Here.

Romera Campbell.

Here.

Watson.

Here.

Madam President Sandoval.

Here.

There.

11 members present.

There are 11 members present.

Council has a quorum.

Councilmember Gonzalez Cutieres, we need a motion regarding the 2026 proposed budget and public hearing notice, please.

Thank you, Council President.

I move that the clerk and recorder is instructed to publish a notice that one, the mayor's proposed budget for 2026 is open for inspection from 9 a.m.

to 5 p.m.

Mondays through Fridays in the City Council office room 451 of the city and county building located at 1437 Bannock Street.

Starting the week of October 20th, 2025.

Two, two at its regular meeting on Monday, October 27th, 2025.

The city council will conduct a public hearing beginning at 5 30 p.m.

or as soon or as soon thereafter as the agenda permits.

On the mayor's proposed budget for 2026, and three, any citizen may inspect the budget prior to or at the public hearing and register any objection to the budget prior to or at the public hearing on the budget, and the council shall take any objections into consideration.

It has been moved and seconded.

Madam Secretary, we'll call.

Council members Lewis.

Aye.

Albidres.

Aye.

Lynn.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Aye.

Romara Campbell.

Aye.

Sawyer.

Aye.

What is?

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.

11 ayes.

11 ayes.

The motion passes.

Approval of the minutes.

Are there corrections to the minutes of October 14th?

Seeing none, the minutes down approved.

Council announcements.

Are there any council announcements this afternoon?

Councilmember Albivida, start us off.

Thank you so much, Council President.

I will start with wishing you a happy birthday.

Happy birthday week, Council President.

I hope you get to celebrate with your family.

Thank you.

And I will also share that we have the Broadway Halloween parade this week.

And I'll have to get back in queue because I don't see it where it's at on my calendar.

Give me one second.

Thank you.

No problem.

Councilmember Sawyer.

Thank you, Madam President.

Happy birthday to you.

And if I could take just a moment of personal privilege, the council president's birthday is the same day as my daughter Julia's birthday.

So Thursday.

Happy birthday, Julia.

I love you very, very much.

17.

I'm not old enough to have a 17-year-old, so that's crazy.

But happy birthday anyway.

And then just wanted to let all residents of District 5 know that our annual survey is out and live.

We would love your feedback.

So every year we send a postcard to about 25,000 households where we ask for your feedback and we give you all fall to do it.

So you have until December 31st of 2025 to fill it out.

But we would love to hear your feedback.

It helps us know exactly what our residents are thinking, what your priorities are, and that helps us shape our 2026 work plan in the district five office.

So please fill out that survey.

I don't have the link with me because that would have made a lot of sense.

But you can find it on our social media or on our newsletter.

Thanks, Madam President.

Thank you.

Councilmember Torres.

Thank you, Madam President.

Um, just want to announce uh there's gonna be a Dia de los Muertos event right here in Civic Park, uh Civic Center Park, right across the street.

And um, one of the reasons that I wanted to announce it is because there's a great uh group of district three creatives who are helping uh bring it together, and so that's um sagrados, which is uh Bruce Trujillo, uh, who's partnering with Colorful Colorado Collaborations, uh, Celeste Martinez and D3 Arts.

Um, so that is this Saturday.

Um, I think it's taking place all uh afternoon.

We will be setting up an altar um uh from district three office.

Um, so hope to see folks there.

But that is the Dia de los Muertos event at Civic Center.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Councilmember Parity.

Happy birthday.

Um, and also uh this Wednesday evening there is a um community-led town hall that is happening from well at 6 p.m.

Um at 2650 East 40th Avenue around um surveillance and particularly flock technology in the city.

Um, I would say get there early because I think it's gonna be packed.

Um, and then on Thursday, I have a coffee um just a little coffee sit-down time for anybody who wants to come in and talk to me about anything at all.

We will be at Bon Me Zone on 2424 South Federal, get a little lunch bun me to go or coffee, um, and that's Thursday from 9 to 10:30.

Um, we have a little pre-registration link if you look at our website or socials, but um you can also just show up.

So hope to see some folks there.

Thank you.

Thank you, Councilmember Watson.

Uh thank you, Council President.

On Friday, October 24th, we're having our monthly uh community office hours for District 9.

It's gonna be at uh Yazoo Barbecue Company, and that is 2150 North Broadway.

Uh so um Yazu's um uh barbecue company from 1 to 215 this Friday to 24th.

Come out and share any of your thoughts, ideas, any great things that you want to engage with with my office concerning whether it's budget, whether it's your streets.

Um, we look forward to engaging with you.

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you.

Councilmember Alviderez.

Thank you so much.

Um, also in the Fine District 9, since I'm following Councilman Watson.

Um, on Sunday, the 26th of October, there is also gonna be an amazing Dia de los Muertos Day of the Debt event at the National Western Complex, and that's put on by local Mexican artist Norberto Moncardin.

Um that will be a very amazing, very special event with lots of things for community, and it'll be a hundred percent free.

So go to the National Western Complex on Sunday, but start your weekend on Saturday, the 25th at 6 p.m.

on the Broadway Halloween parade.

The Broadway Halloween parade goes from 6th Avenue to Alameda on South Broadway, rain or shine.

We also have Carnival Craze at the Athmer Park Rec Center at 11 a.m.

on Saturday, the 25th, and on Sunday, there is the Athmar uh Park at Houston Lake Candy giveaway as well.

So if you want to find out more about those events, you can find them on our social media at Denver's Lucky District 7 on Instagram.

Um and that's all.

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you.

Council Pro Time Memorial Campbell.

Thank you, Madam President, and happy birthday.

Um wanted to, I have two announcements.

Uh, one in district uh four at the Chick-fil-A on Colorado Boulevard and Yale, uh District 3 DPD is doing a cookies in the cops, and they are gonna be there at 5 p.m.

So if you'd like to attend, we'd love to see you there.

And then um I just also wanted to say for the Dia de los Muertos event on Sunday the 26th.

Um, is at the National Western um stock show that Councilwoman um Alvidris just spoke about.

One of the really cool things I think that they are gonna do, they're gonna have live music, dancing horses, and uh Katrina ball.

So they've invited a whole bunch of Quincenas to come, and um they will be dressed up and they are gonna have a Katrina ball.

So pretty exciting.

Never seen it, and I think it's gonna be great.

So um hope to see you all there.

Thank you.

Thank you, Madam President.

Yeah, thank you.

Councilmember Hines.

Thank you, Madam President.

Happy birthday.

I am uh excited to talk about uh a couple RNO meetings this uh this week.

Uh the Upper Downtown Neighborhood Association is having uh their RNO meeting on uh Wednesday from 5 30 to 7 30.

Um also the 7th Avenue Neighborhood Association is having their RNO meeting also on Wednesday.

Um so uh if you're in either of those areas, please do feel free to check out those uh uh RNO meetings.

Um, Council Torreas already mentioned the de los muertos at Civic Center Park.

Um it um it will be on Saturday, anywhere uh between 11 a.m.

and uh and 7 p.m.

Please do come out.

Um council Torres, maybe I'll see you there.

And uh finally, um the Governor's Conference is a little interesting for me to advertise this uh because it is not even in Denver, it's in Colorado Springs.

But um uh the governor has appointed me to the 250 150 commission as in the Sesque Simiquin Centennial, uh, which is the 250th anniversary of the United States and 150th anniversary of Colorado, um, uh which is next year.

Um Governor's the governor's conference will be highlighting um all the work that the 250 150 commission and celebration um are doing, and so I'll be it uh in Colorado Springs for multiple breakout sessions and presenting um there.

So uh if you happen to go to the governor's conference, also please do look me up.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Thank you, Madam President, and happy happy birthday.

Thank you.

Um, and of course, happy birthday to Councilman Sawyer's daughter too.

Um, all the birthdays in October.

Uh I am um Councilman Catchman and I, who is um not joining us tonight, but um we are rounding out the final uh meetings of our uh neighborhood engagement workshops that we've been hosting.

This work started uh earlier this year and throughout the summer where our our staff were attending multiple events, um collecting surveys uh responses from folks about registered neighborhood organizations and what they think about them or if they know nothing about them and what and what can we do better.

So, with that said, we've had four um uh in person events across the city and kind of the four quadrants, and now we're rounding that out with a virtual uh uh event on October 29th.

So next week from 6 to 8 p.m.

Um, if you go to Denvergov.org and you um click on your city, your voice empowering Denver, there is an RSVP link there, and we would love to see folks sign up and join us virtually.

Thank you, madam president.

Thank you.

Councilmember Flynn.

Um thank madam president.

I don't want to be the only one not to have an announcement, so I came up with one.

All righty.

Uh and happy birthday.

Thank you.

Uh on Saturday, this past Saturday, I had the privilege of attending the Denver Press Club's annual Damon Runyon Award.

Damon Runyon uh from Pueblo, uh around the turn of the last century, was a member of the press club and went on to New York and fame in New York in the 20s and 30s, and guys and dolls and you know, Nathan Detroit and all that.

Anyway, uh every year since 1994, the press club has held the Damon Runyan dinner, and we've given an award to a journalist who embodies the kind of storytelling, uh people centered storytelling uh that Damon Runyon participated in.

And we led off that first year, 1994 with Jimmy Breslin, if people remember Jimmy Breslin from the New York Daily News, Mike Roiko, Molly Ivans, and then we went on with folks like uh Ed Bradley, uh Cy Hirsch, George Will, Tim Russert, PJ O'Rourke, uh Katie Couric, Bob Woodward, Eugene Robinson.

And this year, uh Madam President and colleagues, we honored Ari Shapiro, late of uh uh all things considered on NPR.

Thank you.

Still still very young in his career, and he has a lot ahead of him.

But I have to tell you that I've been to many of the Runyon dinners that we've had, and I think some of the folks up here have been to some of them.

Uh it was really, really inspiring.

The conversation uh that we had at the dinner with uh that was facilitated by Ryan Warner from uh Colorado Public Radio.

Just an incredible conversation, a great event.

Uh the Denver Press Club is America's oldest continuously operating press club in America.

And um, I was president of the club back in I think 91 or two, and my goal that year was that please God don't let it close while I'm president, because we always seem to be on the on edge.

Uh but this year we are in our 100th year in that building at 1330 Glenarm.

And so um, but this fundraiser, uh, this dinner is to raise funds for scholarships for journalism students.

So it was a great honor to be there, and I hope that next year we pick someone who is equally as inspiring.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Um I'll just take a moment in personal privilege and say thank you all for wishing me a happy birthday.

Um this year, uh for those who may not know my story 13 years ago in October next week, I ended up getting the flu and slipping into a six week coma, and had the fight of my life.

I underwent more surgeries than I have time to talk about.

Um, there were nights where um the doctors told my parents, my mom, that I would not live.

There was a night where I got last rights, and for some reason, I don't know if it's 13 or what's going on.

I have just had a really hard time.

So I think it's partly PTSD.

Um, and every day I wake up, I'm just so thankful to be alive.

So I can't thank all of you enough to wishing me a happy birthday because it really, really, really matters.

And for those who know I love a celebrating my birthday, and this year I have not.

Um, so just wanted to take a moment of personal privilege to thank my staff for these beautiful pink roses.

I love roses, um, they know it.

And so I just want to say thank you all for just showering me and helping me through this time while I um figure out what's going on.

Didn't I normally okay?

I normally can talk about my illness, and this year has just struck me a little bit different.

So thank you all.

I really, from the bottom of my heart, I can't thank you enough for um wrapping your arms around me during this season.

And with that, I have a couple announcements.

Um, we have a trunk retreat that's back at Mount St.

Vincent.

Bring your whole family for some fun and a free evening of costumes, candy, and community on Friday, October 24th, this Friday from 5 to 7 p.m.

at 4159 Lowell.

And Parks and Rec is hosting a pumpkin plunge at Scheitler Rec Center this Saturday, October 26th, from 11:30 to 1.30.

Kins can come swim with pumpkins.

That's how much fun is that, and even take one home for free.

So just make sure you register in advance by joining um Parks and Rec and the Pumpkin Plunge.

Seeing no other counsel announcements, there are no presentations, there are no communications, and there is there are two proclamations being read this afternoon.

Council members Flynn, Alvidris, Watson, Heinz, and Pro Tem Romero Campbell, will you please join me in reading proclamation 1559?

Thank Madam President, I'll lead off.

Um proclamation 25-1559 honoring Bert Keating.

Whereas Bert Keating was born November 11, 1903 in Buffalo, New York, and moved with his family to Denver as a young child and attended the University of Denver for his undergraduate degree, and received his law degree at Westminster Law School, and whereas Mr.

Keating began his political career serving two successful terms in the Colorado State Legislature in 1932 and 1934, and while serving in the legislature, he continued to develop a very successful private law practice.

And oh, that's me.

Whereas I'm like looking at you.

Okay, I'm sorry.

Whereas Mr.

Keating was elected Denver District Attorney, a title that he would hold until his death in 1967, making him the longest serving district attorney in Denver history.

And, whereas, during Mr.

Keating's tenure, he ran the officer under four key pillars.

He ran the office under four key pillars, which included initiative, innovation, diplomacy, and leadership.

And whereas Mr.

Keating was a true trailblazer for his era, his hiring practices were diverse long before civil rights legislation was enacted.

Hiring diverse individuals from all religious backgrounds, racial groups, female lawyers and disabled veterans to serve in key roles in the office.

And whereas, in addition to being an outstanding prosecutor, he had a knack for identifying legal talent and building a team of accomplished lawyers and scholars, many of whom went on to head successful private practices, and some were appointed and served as accomplished judges.

And whereas Mr.

Keating was nationally recognized for his leadership, serving as president of both the Colorado and National District Attorneys Association and a national association of county prosecuting attorneys.

And whereas, during his tenure as Denver District Attorney, Keating led to prosecution of perhaps the most complex and internationally significant case in Colorado history.

The successful conviction of John Gilbert Graham, who had placed dynamite aboard United Flight 629 on November 1st, 1955, killing all 44 people aboard.

Keating's masterful skill as chief prosecutor led to the conviction and execution of Graham, and whereas Mr.

Keating also mobilized his staff to convict the officers involved in the 1960 Denver police burglary scandal, resulting in major reforms within the within the department.

And whereas Mr.

Keating also gained national attention for prosecuting fathers who failed to pay child support.

He also took an aggressive approach to combating organized crime in Denver and whereas on July 4th, 1967, Bert Keating, one of the most popular political figures in Denver history, died at Rose Memorial Hospital of lung cancer at the very young age of 63.

Over one thousand mourners from all walks of life attended his funeral, spilling out into the streets from the local church.

Now there, now therefore, be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council that the Denver City Council acknowledges the outstanding legacy of former district attorney Bert Burt Keating and recognizes his service to the citizens of our community that the clerk and recorder of the city and county of Denver shall affix the seal of the city and county of Denver to this proclamation and copies be transmitted to the former Denver Deputy Attorney Marshall Fogle, Denver District Attorney John Walsh, and the Denver Police Museum.

I move that proclamation 1559 be adopted.

It has been moved and seconded.

Do any of the sponsors want to start with any comments?

And I could close this out.

Councilmember Flynn, go ahead.

Sure.

Thank you, Madam President.

I'll start.

I uh since uh Mr.

Keating died well before I moved to Denver, I didn't get to know him, but we're presenting the one of the copies of the proclamation to Marshall Fogle, and I did know uh Marshall as uh when I was a reporter and very familiar with uh Mr.

Fogle's exploits uh having been in uh Mr.

Keating's office and being in the district attorney's office and then having a very successful private practice after that.

Uh the uh John Gilbert Graham case in 1955, as uh Councilman Hines read, uh, was probably one of the most notorious crimes in Denver history, and that prosecution in 1955 led to his execution.

Um, not mentioned in the proclamation is that same year, Burt Keating lost the only election he ever ran for, that he was not successful.

Uh, he was elected to the legislature twice, he was elected to the old Denver Election Commission twice, and he was elected DA untold times, 19 years of service.

But in 1955, he ran for mayor when uh Quig Newton uh did not run for a third term in 1955, and he ran against Will Mickelson, and that had the distinction of being the very first Denver mayoral election that was settled by a runoff.

The runoff system had been established in 1952 by the voters to replace our old plurality system.

And uh Mr.

Keating came in first in the May election, and if we hadn't established the runoff, he would have been mayor with whatever percentage he got.

Uh, but in the runoff, uh uh uh Will Nicholson uh overcame that advantage and took the office of mayor.

Um but Mr.

Keating then continued in the district attorney's office and had a very distinguished career, very well loved in this city, and his son actually served on this body.

I don't recall offhand the years that Robert Keating served on the city council, but um, a very well-respected career, and it's very fitting, uh, Madam President colleagues that we're honoring him in his memory tonight and presenting the proclamation, not only to the current DA, uh John Walsh, but also to Marshall Fogle, who's a pleasure to see here today in the chamber.

Thank you, Councilmember.

Councilmember Alvidres.

Thank you, Council President, and thank you for um offering us to co-sponsor this with you.

It's amazing.

I love learning Denver history.

And um it's really amazing to hear about how innovative we've been for such a long time, and I hope we continue to be.

And thank you so much for being here and all the work that um it's taken to be here, and thank you for being here.

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you, Council Pro Temer.

Uh thank you, Madam President.

Um, I had the opportunity to speak with Mr.

Fogle, you know, briefly.

Um, and I think one of the things that really, I think a lesson.

So if you're okay, I'm gonna share a little bit of what you shared, but really that um how much this proclamation means and how Bert Keating really took the opportunity and recognized um talent and hired talent with diverse um with diverse lived experience and really ahead of his time, um, and made the office stronger, and how much richer your experience was um in knowing him in not only um working with him but also with your colleagues.

But I think that it's also a lesson for today, and something that we don't want to forget in our time, um, that inclusiveness, that diversity, that um across lived experiences, um, makes our district attorney um office stronger, makes all of our offices stronger.

So I just wanted to say thank you for that.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Um thank you for bringing this forward.

I hadn't I had remembered this, and then I had to do some research.

I remember there being some type of attack at Sickleton and so just want to say thank you for always advocating, and um I think it's a great reminder.

And I was talking to my staff this morning, and I said, is it just so I um is it just coincidence right now that we have a government shutdown and we're doing this proclamation, and my staff said yes, and I reminded myself that right now in this time where we have a government shutdown, the need for our air traffic controllers is so prevalent, the need to make sure that we have um surveillance in monitoring our air traffic controllers and figuring out how important of a role our international airport plays.

It's like the sixth intern most busiest airport in the world in the world right now.

And um I just don't believe in coincidences after I almost lost my life.

I just believe that things come to fruition the way they're supposed to.

So I think that this is just a reminder for all of us that um if you see something, please report it.

I know that sounds silly.

I know that we're told that all the time, but please just have um if you see something that doesn't make you feel right, just please report it.

And thank you to the um police museum for always bringing these forward and having us do a little bit of history.

Madam Secretary, roll call.

Council members Lewis.

Aye, Albitres.

Aye, Flynn.

Aye, Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Hi.

Romera Campbell.

Aye.

Sawyer, aye.

Torres.

Aye, Watson.

Aye, Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

11 ayes.

Eleven ayes.

Proclamation 1559 has been adopted.

We now have time for the proclamation acceptance, and I will be inviting up two of the former DAs and someone from the police museum, so please feel free to step up.

DA Walsh.

Good afternoon, everyone.

And uh, if I may take a moment of personal privilege, if that's possible, to wish Council President Sandoval a happy birthday, had the opportunity to meet uh her mom a couple of weeks ago at the annual dinner of the Escuela de Guadalupe, which uh her mom helped to found.

And all I can say is de Tal Palo Talasia.

Uh now, let me take a step back and uh note that joining us today virtually are members of Bert Keating's family uh who are joining us uh from out of state.

Uh, and it's a real joy that they're able to watch this recognition of such a towering figure in Denver.

So, on behalf of Bert Keating's family, on behalf of the Denver District Attorney's Office and all of the many, many Denverites that Bert Keating served during his 19 years of service.

It's my honor to accept this proclamation.

You know, Mr.

Keating represented the best in community-minded, forward-leaning prosecution.

He championed, as councilmember Romero Campbell was highlighting equal opportunity and diversity and inclusiveness at a time when that was unusual.

And he left a legacy of fairness, justice, professionalism, and excellence.

That's a legacy that all of us at the Denver DA's office work every day to build upon.

So next week, and I want to flag this for you all.

Next week there will be more opportunities to recognize Mr.

Keating because there's going to be a 70th uh memorial recognition of the bombing of uh United Flight 629.

So for now, uh I will just say thank you for recognizing uh district attorney uh Bert Keating's incredible life and remarkable achievements.

Uh now, it's my uh great honor, uh counsel president, to acknowledge Marshal Vogel, who was a deputy district attorney, and I understand was actually hired by Bert Keating back in the day.

Thank you.

I can't tell you what this means to me.

I'm 84 years old.

60 years ago, I was 24 years old, and I got hired as a deputy DA, the youngest still to this day that ever was hired.

And now I get to tell my story about why Bert Keating is so meaningful to me and to all the people that he hired.

You know, after he died on July 4th, the services were held at the Immaculate Conception up on East Colfax.

That church only holds 900 people, and it was filled.

There are thousands of people outside of the church that couldn't get in to honor Bert Keating.

The question is, why?

I'll tell you, my story is the story of the people that he hired.

He hired people from all the from the minority community, including me, who's Jewish that couldn't get jobs.

Give you an example, Gil Alexander, African American, became a district court judge.

Jim Urso, who lost his leg in World War II, was a veteran, couldn't get a job.

Bert Keating hired him.

Ted Burrell, Italian American, couldn't get a job.

He hired him.

Joe Medina, whose first language was Spanish, his parents are from Mexico, couldn't get a job.

Bert Keating hired him.

And the list goes on and on and on about how he was so much ahead in the terms of the civil rights movement.

He really cared about those people.

Let me tell you what the interview was like when he hired me.

I went to his office because in those days, North Denver ran the Democratic machine.

By guy, the Pomponio family.

And if you knew Mike, you could get an interview with the boss.

A good old Irish Catholic Bert Keating.

Otherwise, you couldn't get an interview.

Here's how the interview went.

A very small Irish looking guy.

He had a desk that was so big that all I could see is from the neck up.

He was he was a Damon Runyan character.

You'd have loved the guy.

He said to me, he said, your name's Fogel, Arnold.

I said, yeah, he said, you're a Jew.

I said, yeah, I am.

He says, you can't get a job.

I said, you're right.

He says, how much money do you have?

I said, I have no money.

He said, what did you?

How did you get to law school?

I said, I worked, I joined the labor union, local 720, and I was making union wages, two dollars and two cents an hour.

What's your dad do?

He's a pawnbroker from Poland.

He said, Uh, where did you spend most of your time?

I said, on Curtis Street, Lermer Street, washing windows and and uh working in pawn shops.

He said, Have you ever been arrested?

I said, Yeah.

He said, What for?

I said, being underage in a pool hall.

That's a true story.

So he said, You're hired.

Don't you want to even know anything about my grade averages?

He said, No, he said, you know what?

You don't need any training.

You're a street guy.

I said, Yeah, I am.

He said, go to work.

And that's how I got the job.

By the time I was 27 years old, because he let me, I tried over 25 murder cases by the time I was 27.

One day, we had two women in the office who were DAs.

They were not allowed to try felony cases.

They could only do non-support.

One of the women, her name was Laurel Weeks.

I went to Bert Keating and I said, Mr.

Keating, I'd like a real weeks to try a murder case with me.

A woman has never tried a felony case in Colorado.

And you have two women, and I want her to be the one.

And she did.

And Aurel Weeks became the chief judge of the juvenile division for many, many years.

Joe Medina, my partner.

His parents are from Mexico.

His first language was Spanish.

This guy was a hell of a trial lawyer.

And all of us that never had any break until Bert Keaton gave us a break.

All had successful practices, and he really cared about people.

What did it mean for me?

I had nothing.

By the time through my career, I had my own law practice.

I had 14 lawyers working for me.

I served 10 years on Father Woody's homeless shoulder.

I served five years on the Denver Health Board.

I was able to provide scholarships for needy people at the University of Denver Law School.

I raised a million dollars to build the statute of general roles at the state capitol.

And the list goes on.

I happen to have one of the world's finest baseball collections.

I work for the New York Yankees, and I worked for the uh, I did the All-Star Gang for Dick Montford.

That collection is gonna go into History Colorado Museum.

We're negotiating a loan agreement right now.

Why am I saying this?

Not to brag, but I because Brute Keating taught me the importance of being involved in the community and giving back.

I'm so proud to be here today.

I spent 60 years waiting to put a smile on your faces.

How much this man meant to me and to all the people that needed a break, and boy, did I get one.

Thank you very much for giving me the chance to honor this great man.

Thank you again.

Thank you.

Councilmember Perity and Gonzalez Gutierrez, will you please read proclamation 1562?

Yes, but I wish we could have gone first.

It's a little dry.

All right, you guys, this is a proclamation recognizing the importance of health coverage and promoting enrollment through Connect for Health Colorado, which is actually a very interesting topic.

Whereas open enrollment held annually from November 1 to January 15 is a vital opportunity for Coloradans, including those who are uninsured or have lost Medicaid or health insurance through a job, or those who face systemic barriers to shop compare and enroll in health care insurance plans that protect their health and financial stability.

And whereas access to affordable health coverage is essential to the health, stability, and economic well-being of Colorado families and communities, and whereas Colorado has made significant progress in reducing the uninsured rate since the creation of Connect for Health Colorado, the state's official health insurance marketplace, which provides individuals and families with access to quality affordable coverage.

And whereas open enrollment is a critical period during which Coloradans can shop compare and enroll in health insurance plans that meet their needs and that protect them from unexpected medical costs.

And whereas health coverage brings peace of mind by ensuring access to preventative care, mental health services, prescription medications, and emergency care, which strengthens the overall health of our communities.

And whereas Connect for Health Colorado offers financial assistance, including federal premium tax credits and cost sharing reductions.

Colorado premium assistance and omni salute through Colorado Connect to help thousands of Coloradans lower the cost of coverage.

And whereas maintaining health insurance ensures access to preventative care, prescription drugs, mental health support, and emergency services, which strengthens the coverage, sorry, strengthens the overall health of our state.

And whereas trusted community partners such as brokers and assistors work alongside Connect for Health Colorado to help residents navigate enrollment, especially those who may face language, financial, or technological, technological barriers.

Geez, I'm having.

And whereas the city and county of Denver recognizes the importance of every Coloradan having the opportunity to protect their health and that of their family through access to affordable quality coverage.

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council, Section One that Council of the City and County of Denver hereby recognizes the critical role of Connect for Health Colorado in expanding access to health insurance and supporting the well-being of Coloradans.

Section two, that the clerk of the city and county of Denver shall affix the seal of the city and county of Denver to this proclamation, and that a copy be transmitted to Connect for Health Colorado in recognition of its service to the people of Colorado.

Thank you, Council Members.

Councilmember Parity, your motion to adopt.

So moved.

I move that proclamation.

Okay, fine.

I move the proclamation 251562 be adopted.

It has been moved and seconded.

Councilmember Hardy and Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Madam Secretary Rocol.

Wait, comment?

Oh, yeah, we make comments.

Sorry, sorry, sorry.

It's been moving.

Seconded.

Comments by members of council.

Yeah, so I will get in and although I joke because it is funny that it starts with open enrollment, which sounds very bureaucratic, this is a pretty cool proclamation.

The drop in the uninsured rate in Colorado is you could call it one of the biggest advancements of human rights of people in our state that we've had in a very long time, honestly.

Our systems here have gotten so complex and they've always been so underfunded, they continue to be so underfunded, that the ability to have made like some sustained progress in that area, is just incredibly impressive.

And it involved a lot of moving of mountains, which is another term for bureaucracy in case you wondered.

So I just wanted to sort of pause and honor that, especially since we're seeing big attacks to the very idea that we that we provide these kind of safety nets, you know.

So Colorado hopefully will continue going in the opposite direction of the way the prevailing winds are going.

And Connect for Health Colorado just does an incredibly expert job of um keeping that, keeping that true.

Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Thank you, Council President.

Thank you, Councilwoman Parity, for joining on this proclamation together.

And, you know, as the two at large, the one at large, the other at large, we know that healthcare isn't just doesn't have any boundaries, right?

We know that our entire state people, this is incredibly important work, is to make sure that people have access to health care no matter where they live in our state.

Um we know that this just this is not just a health issue, but this is, and we hear people say this all the time, right?

That health care is a human right.

Uh, those are not just words.

Like this is this is a real need for many members of our community.

And I'm just incredibly proud of the work that Connect for Health does uh, you know, to help people navigate these very complex systems to be able to access affordable health care.

Um Denver is proud to be part of this statewide effort that ensures people can see a doctor when they're sick to get preventative care.

Uh that lessens the burden on our emergency rooms, right?

When people get that preventative care access, and they also can avoid financial crisis by being able to get out ahead of things that they're experiencing.

We know that um through Connect for Health, tens of thousands of Denver residents have obtained quality affordable health coverage, uh, many experiencing access to such coverage for the very first time.

Programs like uh Colorado Premium Assistance and Federal Tax Credits help make coverage more affordable.

And just to remind everybody that open enrollment runs from November 1st through January 15th.

So we're telling you now, so be prepared.

November 1st through January 15th, and we encourage all Denver residents to review your options and get covered.

Um I'm super uh just really honored to be able to be part of this proclamation and honoring um the work that's done so that people can protect their health and their futures.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

We now have time for uh Madam Secretary, real call, council members Lewis.

I'll be today.

Aye.

Flynn, Gonzalez Cutieres.

Aye, hein?

Hi.

Parity.

Aye.

Romara Campbell.

Aye.

Sawyer.

Aye.

Torres?

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting announce the results.

Eleven ayes.

Eleven ayes.

Proclamation 1592 has been adopted.

We have now have five minutes for the proclamation acceptance.

Council members parody and Gonzalez Cutieres.

Who would you like to call up to accept the proclamation?

Yes, we'd like to call up Kevin Patterson from Connect for Health.

Thank you, Madam Chair, members of council, uh, happy birthday.

Uh until you tell your mom Kevin said hey.

Thank you all.

I can't tell you.

Um, well, one, it's been 15 years since I've been behind this mic.

Uh, and the last time I was here, I did not get such a welcome reception.

We were talking about admission-based events.

Uh, some of you may have been around for that a few years ago.

I know Councilman Watson was uh in this fray.

Uh it means so much to me personally and professionally to hear the words that you all have said uh about our work.

We have been working over the last five years, we've broken an enrollment record five years in a row.

We've done that by reaching out through the community.

Uh we've gone to places that are trusted advisors.

It's not because Kevin said you need to sign up for insurance.

It's because the father said it uh at your parish, it's because your neighbor said it, the nurse you might know, your doctors like, hey, have you talked to these people?

You maybe you have a broker or an assistor that's at one of our uh community-based uh enrollment centers all around the state.

And so we are just really honored to be here with you tonight to to accept this.

We have about uh more than 35,000 Denverites uh getting their coverage through the marketplace.

80% of those are receiving financial assistance with their monthly costs every month in 2025.

And as as council members Gonzalez Gutierrez and Councilwoman Paradise also said, we really appreciate your partnership on this.

Uh it is really about saving lives.

Um this is a very important issue for us.

There's a lot of conversation going on nationally, uh, you may have heard about.

Um, and we know that we're standing with folks all along I-25 and I-7, but we're also in every corner of the state.

And I I use this everywhere I go from dinosaur to Durango, from Sterling to Springfield.

We cover every corner.

We are separated by watersheds, uh, as the division of wildlife says, and you know, people don't like crossing those mountain passes, but we go out into our communities and make sure that we're supporting the membership and the constituents and our customers.

So again, thank you so much for uh your partnership on this.

We look forward to anything that we can do.

Uh, since Councilman Gonzalez stole my line about when open enrollment is there.

That's fine.

I'm I'm happy about it because it's better coming from you anyway.

Uh, I just want to make sure folks know that with all of the noise that you've been hearing, we are here to help anybody.

Uh, we're I was gonna say it this way, but no matter when Congress does something or not, we will be here ready to serve our our neighbors, our friends, and our family members.

So again, thank you for your time and attention, and we appreciate the honor.

Thank you.

There are no bills for introduction this week.

Council members, this is your last opportunity to call out an item.

Councilmember Gonzalez Cogetis, will you make the motions for us this evening?

Yes, Madam President.

Now we'll do a recap under resolutions.

Councilmember Lewis has called out Council Resolution 1414 for comment under bills for introduction.

No items have been called out under bills for final consideration.

1427 has been called out by Councilmember Lewis for questions and Councilmember Flynn for a vote.

Underpending no items have been called out.

Do you all mind if we take a five-minute break since there were no um items for introduction, fills for introduction, so we can all go out and deal with the proclamation and then we'll come back in.

We'll just stop for like five minutes and we'll be right back.

But how do I report this?

And what else can I report?

How about graffiti?

Hot holes, too.

What about issues with snow removal?

Wow, Sunny makes it so easy to report issues in my neighborhood.

I wonder what else Sunny can help with.

On this How to Denver, how to sign up for a My Denver card.

A My Denver card is for Denver residents ages five to eighteen and unlocks a wide range of benefits and features.

More on that in a moment.

But first, getting your hands on a My Denver card is very easy.

You can register online at Denvergov.org slash my Denver card.

Click online service center and fill out the necessary form.

Cards will not be mailed.

So you will need to go into a recenter to pick up the card.

Cards can be picked up at 28 of Denver's 30 rec centers.

Just see someone at the front desk to provide some brief information.

Then after a quick photo, you'll be all set with your new card.

Once you have your card, that's when things get exciting.

The card replaces a library card and can be used to access idea labs, get homework assistance, or just check out books at any Denver Public Library branch.

Your My Denver card also gets you access to any Denver Rec Center in addition to a wide range of programs.

Find out more at DenverGov.org slash recreation.

And lastly, show your My Denver card at the zoo, botanic gardens, or any museum for possible discounts or even free admission.

Restrictions and limitations vary for each site.

Thanks for watching, and make sure you subscribe for more how-to videos like this.

And if there are any city services you want to learn how to take advantage of, leave a comment down below.

Experience the magic of Denver, one mile high moment at a time.

Have you visited the Westwood neighborhood?

It's a diverse and culturally rich section of the Mile High City.

A drive down Morrison Road reveals a brightly colored celebration of Hispanic culture.

Vibrant murals are everywhere you turn.

While restaurants up and down the street offer up delicious cuisines.

Westwood is home to several prominent festivals throughout the year and is an excellent place to enjoy Cinco de Mayo.

Just around the corner from Morrison Road is the legendary Far East Center and the Little Saigon District.

The Far East Center also hosts one of the biggest lunar new year celebrations in the state.

Don't miss out on this important corner of our city and visit Westwood today.

That's just one of many mile high moments to enjoy in Denver.

Thank you all for giving us that moment of personal privilege.

Madam Secretary, please put the first item on our screens, Council Resolution 1414.

A resolution approving a proposed sixth amendatory agreement between the city and county of Denver and Bayod Works LLC to operate and provide shelter services for individuals experiencing homelessness in a low barrier emergency shelter environment.

Manage the homeless management information system enrollment and client support citywide.

Councilmember Lewis, please go ahead with your comments on council resolution 1414.

I just wanted to shout out Bay Aud for the amazing work that they have done for the city of Denver and the folks out there on the streets, those are recently on the streets and those that are recently off the streets.

That's a complaint for another time, though.

And I know that despite the adversity that Bayod will continue to do excellent work in our communities, and I'm very excited to see this come forth tonight.

Thank you.

Thank you, Councilmember.

Madam Secretary, please put the next item on our screens.

Council Bill 1427, a bill for an ordinance amending ordinance number 400 series of 2028 as subsequently amended by ordinance number 1659 series of 2024.

Ordinance number 1208 series of 2025 and ordinance number 1279 series of 2025, thereby amending the boundaries of the Downtown Development Authority.

Councilmember Lewis, please go ahead with your questions on Council Bill 1427.

Thank you so much.

And I did get these questions answered, but um I will ask them again.

Um so the first one is what are the discretionary factors that could be used by the DDDA board that would allow for the board to deny a petition for inclusion.

Good evening, uh, City Council Donna Wilder, Department of Finance.

If may I may also exercise a moment of personal privilege and wish uh city council president, a very happy birthday.

Thank you.

Um, so to be in uh considered for inclusion into the Denver Downtown Development Authority boundary, a petitioner must uh provide evidence that the property is owned in fee, and that the property is adjacent to the current boundary.

Sorry, I didn't realize that I was on mute.

Um, thank you so much is there anything that would um that would um be a barrier to uh or what i guess the question is what are the um what would be the criteria that would require that would um result excuse me not require and someone being denied entry common terms of inclusion yes thank you for that question uh council member lewis uh to be considered for inclusion into the district uh a property owner must uh submit a petition for inclusion uh form and part of that form will request evidence uh of both that adjacency and the ownership uh in fee and so they would need to demonstrate um a uh satisfactory legal description and a plot map uh showing the adjacency to the current boundary so that's typically uh in the form of some title work um that is attached to that petition for inclusion uh that is typically uh sent to city staff uh and we do a vetting process with our city attorney's office as well as the city surveyor to verify that those requirements um have been satisfied great thank you so much is that it council member yes that's all thank you so much thank you councilmember Finn do you have any comments um yes madam president thank you um I called this out to vote no because I voted no last week as well I of the three properties being included I'm only opposed to one of them so I wish they were separate uh but that's the civic center inclusion I've seen the plans for the redo of civic center I just think it's too much way over the top I think it's doing too much and I think it's damaging to that national uh landmark national register landmark property uh that's been the center of our civic life for a hundred years now and I just think it goes too far and I cannot support it and so that's why I'm that's why I call it on my president thank you.

Thank you council member parody I just wanted to say I absolutely agree with Councilmember Flynn and um plan to vote no for the same reasons thank you councilmember Gonzalez Godetis will you please put council bill 1427 on the floor for final passage I move that council bill 25 1427 be placed upon consideration and do pass has been moved and seconded um council members you already made your comments madam secretary roll call on council resolution 1427 council members lewis albidres aye flynn ayez aye parity nay romara campbell aye sawyer aye torres aye Watson aye madam president sandoval aye madam secretary close the voting announce the results eight ayes eight ayes council resolution 1427 has passed this concludes the items to be called out all bills for introduction are ordered published council members remember that this is a consent or block vote and you will need to vote aye otherwise this is your last chance to call out an item for a separate vote.

Council members Gonzalez Gutierrez will you please put the resolutions for adoption and the bills on final consideration for final passage on the floor.

I move that res the resolutions be adopted and bills on final consideration be placed upon final consideration and do pass in a block for the following items series 25 1382 1414 1452 1453 1455 1456 1411 1443 1457 1458 1459 1447 1448 1444 1446 144 Thank you.

It has been moved and seconded.

Madam Secretary, Roll Call.

Council members Lewis.

Aye.

I'll be there.

Aye.

Flynn.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Heinz.

Hi.

Carity.

Aye.

Romero Campbell.

Aye.

Sawyer.

Aye.

Torres.

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the vote and announce the results.

Eleven ayes.

11 ayes.

The resolutions have been adopted and the bills have been placed upon final consideration and due pass.

Tonight's city council will hold a required public hearing on Council Bill 1272, changing the zoning classification for 1252 West Buyer's Place in Belverde.

If there are no objections from members of council, we will recess until 5 30 before reconvening the regular meeting.

So almost three miles of river that were completely rebuilt and restored from an ecological perspective was a commitment that we made to the Forest Service after the ER work was complete, because we did in order to get the road back, we had to pull so much material out of the river that it just wasn't natural anymore.

And I think that's where resiliency continues on both with the analysis that we're talking about, but hopefully the mindset too.

Of course, not all of the work for this project was in the river.

One of the problems that was seen in numerous canyons was homeowners that were cut off and had to be helicoptered out just because the road was gone.

So one of the goals of this project in particular was to help mitigate that in future events.

We called it a concrete resiliency section.

It's a block of concrete under the road that in future flood events will allow this corridor to maintain a 15-foot emergency egress road.

And we also stockpiled material in the canyon in strategic locations so that in a future event we could rebuild the road within 12 to 24 hours and get people out of the canyon as quick as possible.

We've been working on this one since three days after the flood.

So starting and stopping, going on this one's been on my plate in one form or another for 10 years now.

So most of my region 4 career has been spent working on flood projects in one form or another.

So it is really cool to see it come full circle.

Over the past nine years, CDOT has learned a lot about how to deal with the disaster.

Some of the lessons are personal and some are more concrete, literally.

I think the biggest lesson that I learned, and it was almost a gift starting out in my engineering career was what nature can do.

Uh being very thoughtful on how infrastructure that we put in will coexist with nature and its uh habitat.

We came up with soil cement mixing, and so what we did was we created our own bedrock.

That was a technique that had never been used in Colorado.

I think when emergencies happen, which we've got an incident command structure, we've got a culture where the maintenance folks know what they need to do, the engineers know what they need to do, they don't step on each other's toes.

Unintended consequence of something like this is you get really good at handling those kinds of events.

Um not great that they have to happen, but really great that the agency is so well set up to respond.

And I think that's a huge benefit to the public that they probably don't even realize is that you know or submit your comments in writing.

The next session will be held on Monday, October 27th.

Sign up begins at 5 p.m.

on Thursday, October 23rd.

We look forward to hearing from you again and thank you for attending.

Council will now reconvene from our earlier session.

There is no unfinished business from the earlier session.

There are two proclamations being read this evening.

Councilmember Torres, will you please read proclamation 1560?

Uh yes, Madam President.

Proclamation 1560 domestic violence awareness month.

Whereas October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of supporting survivors, educating the public that domestic violence affects all demographics, and teaching others how to help loved ones that have experienced abuse because domestic violence can happen to anyone.

And whereas this month is an opportunity to show support for organizations and individuals who provide critical advocacy, resources, hope, and assistance to survivors because ending domestic violence requires a cultural shift and respectful relationships within our communities where accountability and awareness keep our communities safe.

And whereas the National Domestic Violence Hotline reports that 24 people per minute experience rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in the US, totaling over 12 million adults in a single year.

And whereas in 2024, the Denver City Attorney's Office and Denver Police Department's domestic violence unit managed 6,076 cases, and the Denver District Attorney's Office managed 1,359 cases.

Despite overall crime falling, domestic violence cases rose 12%.

And whereas survivors deserve safety, community support, and access to resources, and the Rose Annum Center, Safe House Denver, Violence Free Colorado, Denver Police Department, Denver District, and City Attorney's Offices, and the Denver Women's Commission want survivors to know they are supported.

And whereas during the first week of October, the Denver City and County Building, McNichols Civic Center Building, and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts Complex and Ball Arena were luminated in purple to raise awareness.

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Council of the City and County of Denver that October 2025 is domestic violence awareness month, and that the Denver City Council supports nonprofit government and community partners in reducing domestic violence and aiding survivors.

And that the clerk of the city and county of Denver shall fix the seal of the city and county of Denver to this proclamation, and that a copy be transmitted to Kirsten Decker, Chair of the Denver Women's Commission.

Thank you, Councilmember Torres.

Your motion to adopt.

I move that proclamation 1560 be adopted.

It has been moved and seconded.

Comments by members of council.

Councilmember Torres.

Thank you, Madam President.

Honored to work with the women's commission on this.

I've worked with the women's commission for my 18 years in human rights and community partnerships, and just really proud that the commission is still leading and taking on really important issues that affect all women and families throughout Denver.

So thank you for that.

Thank you for mentioning all of the organizations that step into this space.

And Dove.

And I want to thank them for working with us on the language.

Getting out of these situations is scary and dangerous.

We know the statistics, it can take four to seven times trying to leave before you're able to actually leave.

It affects one in three women and one in four men.

It affects everyone.

And what DV is on an upward trend in Denver.

As of September 30th, there were 5,721 reports, which is a rise.

Six years ago, it was just over 4300 for the same period of time.

I have had the honor to know survivors, and I've also experienced the utter heartache of knowing victims.

And the statistics are just so alarming because they mean that intimate partner violence has either happened to you or someone you know.

It is impossible to get around that.

So thank you to the commission for being brave in being in this space.

And I'm just honored to uh sponsor the proclamation.

Thank you, Madam President.

And thank you, Councilmember Torres.

Um, thank you for bringing forward such an important proclamation and bringing voice to some of the victims who may not have a voice.

Getting out of a really hard situation can be scary, it can be lonely.

Um, and to know that we have an amazing center, such as the Rose Andon Center here, located in Denver for resources for people, is um something that other cities don't have, so um, can't thank you enough for your work on this and um thank the women's commission for being here this afternoon.

Madam Secretary, we'll call.

Council members Lewis.

I'll be today's.

Aye.

Flynn.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Heinz.

Aye.

Parody?

Aye.

Romero Campbell.

Aye.

Sawyer?

Aye.

Lotus.

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.

10 ayes.

10 ayes.

Proclamation 1560 has been adopted.

We now have time for the proclamation acceptance.

Councilmember Torres, who would you like to invite up to accept the proclamation?

I'd love to invite up Kirsten Decker, Chair of the Denver Women's Commission, and would love for all of the members of the Commission to introduce yourselves as well.

Come on up.

Thank you, Council President, members of City Council, and a special, especially Councilwoman Torres for recognizing October as domestic violence awareness month.

I'm Kirsten Decker.

I'm the chair of the Denver Women's Commission.

Before I go into some brief remarks, I'll ask the commission to stand up and introduce themselves.

Hi, I'm sorry.

Oh, you need to go to the mic.

Oh, yeah, come.

Hi, I'm Kara Ing.

Mary Beth Lawson.

Good evening, I'm Rhoda Pelmer.

Shanise Morse.

Buenas tardes, Selena Mendoza.

Good evening, Ammonica Padilla.

Thank you, everyone.

We're also joined by Heather from Safe House Denver.

So I'm honored to accept this proclamation on behalf of the incredible government and community organizations, including the Rose Andam Center, Safe House Denver, Violence Free Colorado, the Denver Police Department, the Denver District Attorney, and City Attorney's Offices, the amazing organizations that Councilwoman Torres shared with us as well, who work tirelessly to respond and reduce domestic violence in Denver.

These organizations show up every day to make our city safer and more supportive for the brave victims and survivors of domestic violence.

I want to share a little bit about the Denver Women's Commission, a volunteer body that advises the mayor, the mayor's office on issues affecting women and girls.

We believe Denver thrives when women are empowered to live full productive and authentic lives.

We know that most domestic violence victims are women, and that one in three women will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime.

That reality makes this issue central to our mission.

While overall crime in Denver declined in 2024, domestic violence cases rose 12%, with more than 7,400 cases managed across the city attorney, police, and district attorneys' offices.

When we look beyond aggregate data, we see troubling and a deadly trend, one that demands action.

Intimate partner violence is often hidden in plain sight, yet every statistic represents a person, someone's friend, colleague, or loved one.

The Denver Women's Commission is committed to raising awareness, promoting healthy relationships, and supporting survivors as they rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

We look to our city leaders to make that same commitment to examine the data closely and to ensure Denver's attention and resources are directed toward reducing domestic violence and strengthening survivor support.

Let this be more than a ceremonial acknowledgement.

Let it mark the beginning of a deeper partnership, one that turns data into action and action into lasting change for the safety and well-being of our residents.

Thank you again, Councilwoman Torres and the City Council for giving this issue a voice and for your continued leadership and support of survivors across our community.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Councilmember Hines, will you please read proclamation 1561?

Yes, Madam President.

Proclamation 25-1561, a proclamation honoring National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Whereas, October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which was first established by Congress in 1945 to honor the contributions of workers with disabilities to our nation's workforce, and the 2025 National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme, celebrating value and talent, highlights the immense value that people with disabilities bring to workplaces and the economy.

And whereas approximately 61 million adults in the United States are living with a disability, including about 11% of Denver residents under age 65, and these individuals have valuable skills, perspectives, and talents that strengthen our workforce and communities.

And whereas, employment outcomes for people with disabilities continue to improve yet remain significantly below those of people without disabilities.

In 2023, the national employment population, the national employment to population ratio for people with disabilities rose to a record high of 22.5%, still far below the 65.8% for people without disabilities.

And the unemployment rate for people with disabilities at 7.2% was about double that of those without disabilities.

And whereas, Colorado is a leader in advancing disability employment with about 50.7% of working age Coloradans with disabilities employed, one of the highest rates in the nation, compared to 41.8% nationally, giving Colorado the fifth highest disability employment rate among all states.

And whereas the city and county of Denver is recognized for its commitment to accessibility and inclusion, having been ranked the second most disability friendly in the United States, excuse me, the second most disability friendly city in the United States in 2023, a distinction reflecting Denver's strong advocacy for people with disabilities, robust ADA compliance, and proactive initiatives like the Denver Commission for People with Disabilities.

And whereas the City and County of Denver strives to lead by example as an employer by implementing inclusive hiring practices and providing accommodation so that people of all abilities can excel in its workforce.

And the city partners with local agencies and programs to connect Denverites with disabilities to meaningful employment opportunities.

And whereas businesses that include people with disabilities in their workforce gain loyal, skilled employees, see higher employee retention, and report disability inclusive practices give them a competitive edge, and whereas research shows that companies leading in disability inclusion financially outperform their peers with significantly higher revenue, net income, and profit on average, confirming that inclusive employment practices benefit not only society, but also the economic bottom line.

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council, Section One, that the Denver City Council hereby proclaims the month of 2020 October 2025 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in the city and county of Denver, and encourages all residents, employers, and organizations in our community to recognize the invaluable contributions of workers with disabilities and to promote inclusive employment practices throughout the year.

Section two, that the clerk and recorder of the city and county of Denver shall affix the seal of the city and county of Denver to this proclamation, and that a copy be transmitted to the Denver Commission for People with Disabilities, the Colorado Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office.

Thank you, Councilmember.

Your motion to adopt.

I move that we adopt proclamation number 25-1561.

It has been moved and seconded.

Comments by members of council.

Councilmember Heinz.

Thank you, Madam President.

We do more than honor a national observance.

We affirm the kind of city we choose to be.

For me, this proclamation is deeply personal.

I'm proud to serve as Denver's first elected official who uses a wheelchair for mobility.

And I'm here because others believe that leadership and public service should be open to everyone, regardless of ability.

That belief that every person has something meaningful to contribute is at the heart of what makes Denver special.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

The theme, celebrating value and talent, reminds us that inclusion isn't charity, it's smart policy.

It's how we strengthen our economy, our workplaces, and our communities.

Nationwide, the numbers show progress, but also the work ahead.

Only about one in five people with disabilities are employed compared to two and three without disabilities.

Yet here in Colorado, more than half the working age people with disabilities are employed, one of the highest rates in the nation.

That's something to celebrate, but it's also a call to action.

Because behind every statistic is a person, someone who wants to contribute, to belong, to be recognized for what they do or what they can do, not what they can't.

When I was elected in 2019, it was still legal in Denver to pay a person with a physical disability 10% less than the minimum wage simply because of their disability.

Later that year, I sponsored an amendment to Denver's Minimum Wage Ordinance to eliminate the sub-minimum wage for people with disabilities.

That's what progress looks like.

Denver has been recognized, and I'll mention that was unanimously adopted that uh that amendment.

So I'm while I may have sponsored it, all of us here in the dais in the last class uh supported it.

Denver has been uh recognized as one of the most disability-friendly cities in the country.

That's not because of laws or just because of laws or ramps, it's because of values.

Because in Denver, we believe accessibility is fundamental, not optional.

We believe our differences make us stronger, and we believe that a truly inclusive city doesn't leave anyone behind.

So tonight, as this proclamation becomes part of our city's record, let's remember awareness is the beginning, not the end.

Let's keep challenging assumptions.

Let's keep pushing for inclusive hiring for accessible spaces for equitable opportunities.

Let's keep proving that when everyone has a seat at the table, everybody wins.

Thank you.

Thank you so much, Councilmember.

Councilmember Watson.

Uh thank you, Council President, and thank you so much, Councilmember Heinz, for um being the sponsor of this um proclamation.

Uh, I think it is important for community members and folks here in the audience that within council we have your leadership to ensure not just for proclamations, but to ensure that we live up to the ideals we say within the laws that we create, that we have a society that welcomes all, supports all, and will fight for the civil rights and civil liberties for all.

Understanding and recognizing Disability employment awareness Month is an important uh opportunity for council to demonstrate our commitment to the things we say we believe.

I remember as a young man, one of my favorite teachers back in the Virgin Islands, Ms.

Smith, was um legally blind.

Um, and she was one of the toughest um um uh teachers I had.

She taught algebra and I barely passed.

It was one of my first Cs ever.

But one of the reasons why she became my favorite teacher was she taught me so much about life.

We would sit and talk about everything, including algebra, but having her there as an example of of what our school represented, that all folks, based on their competency or should be hired, and that they can have a lasting impact.

She's had a lasting impact on my entire life.

So thank you so much, Councilmember Heinz, and thank you to the leaders in the audience who on a day-to-day basis ensures that we go beyond simply awareness, but we go to ensure that our civil rights are protected and that community members receive the same level of support and celebration, no matter what their abilities.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Councilmember Parity.

Yeah, I just I really appreciate this proclamation.

And Councilmember Heinz and I think my colleagues know this, but um a big part of my legal practice before I came here was representing people with disabilities in ADA claims, often against employers, sometimes against you know places of public accommodation, all of that.

Um and just by doing that for enough years, um, it was pretty striking to me that um some disabilities, especially those that are more visible, um, or those that um like seizure disorders that people have like this fright reaction to.

Um, I would see people with those disabilities multiple times over my career because they would have experienced employment discrimination again.

Um, and that's not that wasn't usual, you know, most of the time.

Um, so it just was really striking to me to kind of get a sense of um really what people are up against and how far we still have to go in terms of stigma and those kinds of reactions.

Um so I appreciate the proclamation.

Um I know Colorado does well on this, and hopefully we can keep doing better and better.

Thank you, Councilmember.

Thank you.

Thank you, Councilmember Hines, for bringing attention to such an important issue and being such an amazing advocate for um this community and helping remind us um that we can always do better.

I think people forget um how the spaces we build are exclusive, not inclusive, and we always need to be constantly doing better, so really appreciate that.

Um, Madam Secretary, we'll call.

Council members Lewis Albidas.

Aye, Flynn.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Heinz.

Aye.

Parity.

Aye.

Romara Campbell, aye.

Sawyer.

Aye.

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.

10 ayes.

10 ayes.

Proclamation 1561 has been adopted.

We now have time for the proclamation acceptance.

Councilmember Heinz, who would you like to invite up to accept the proclamation?

Thank you, Madam President.

Um I have three organizations named uh in the proclamation.

Uh, the Denver Commission for People with Disabilities, the Colorado Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office.

Um, I think I spoke with at least one of the groups um outside who declined to uh uh come to the microphone.

Um Ms.

Butler, as a former director of the Office of Disability Rights, would you like to uh say a word or two?

Not three, just two.

No, I'm just kidding.

Sure, and this was just off the cuff, but thank you so much, Councilmember Hines.

Yes, my name's Alison Butler, um, and I was the director of the Human Rights Community Partnerships Division of Disability Rights for three years.

Was very proud of the work that we did.

Um, and in HRCP, as was already mentioned tonight.

We have commissions, and we do have the Denver Commission for People with Disabilities.

We have the liaison here, um Leah Heifer Solomon, and we have a member of our commission, and we have member from Colorado Cross Disability Coalition, and then we've got two of our folks here from the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office, our Director Danny Combs, as well as uh Coral Catalano.

I think it's really incredible um to be able to say thank you for this proclamation at the Colorado Disability Opportunity Office, or CDU.

We have five employees, all of whom have disabilities.

Um, and I think that's quite incredible.

And we are housed within the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment so that we can recognize CDLE's spirit in having people with disabilities not just survive or get benefits and get by.

That is important.

That is very important, but prosper and thrive.

And I think that's exactly what folks are doing here in Denver with uh Councilmember Heinz leadership, but also 10 votes right for this proclamation.

And while the ADA is only 35 years old.

And when President George H.

H.W.

Bush signed it, he said, let's let these shameful walls of exclusion finally come tumbling down.

We know we are not all the way there yet, and that's why the work of this council as well as the work that's being done in Denver and Colorado are so important.

So thank you very much.

Thank you.

We have one required public hearing tonight.

As a reminder, city council members need to turn on their video during the vote.

For those participating in verse person when called upon, please come to the podium on the presentation monitor on the wall.

You will see your time counting down.

For those participating virtually when called upon, please wait until please wait until our meeting host promotes you to speaker.

When you are promoted, please accept the promotion, turn on your camera if you have one and your microphone.

All speakers should begin their remarks by telling the council their names and cities of residence, and if they feel comfortable doing so, their home addresses.

If you have signed up to answer questions only, state your name and note that you are available for questions for of council.

Speakers will have three minutes.

There is no yielding of time.

If translation is needed, you will be given it an additional three minutes for your comments to be interpreted.

Speakers must stay on topic of the hearing and must direct their comments to council as a whole.

Please refrain from profane or obscene speech and refrain from individual or personal attacks.

Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez, will you please put Council Bill 15 or Council Bill 1272 changing the zoning classification for 1252 West Buyer's Place in Valverde on the floor for final passage?

Yes, Council President, I move that Council Bill 251272 be placed upon final consideration and due pass.

It has been moved and seconded.

The required public hearing for Council Bill 1272 is open.

May we please have the staff report.

Yes, thank you, Council President Sandoval.

My name is Justin Montgomery.

I'm a senior city planner with community planning and development, and I'm here to present the map amendment case for 1252 West Buyers Place.

The presentation tonight will just have four main parts.

It'll go through the request, talk about the location and context, the rezoning process, and the review criteria.

The subject request is from Urban Edge 2 Unit B to Industrial Mixed Use 3 with waivers.

The subject property is under 8,000 square feet, vacant, and located south of West Buyers Place and east of South Navajo Street.

The applicant is requesting this rezoning in order to construct an industrial or mixed-use building on the property.

We'll get more into the location and context.

It is in the Valverde Statistical Neighborhood at the southeast side there.

The existing zoning of the property is ETU B, that's Urban Edge 2 Unit B.

It's adjacent to other properties zoned ETU B.

It's also adjacent to industrial mixed use three, B4 from Chapter 59, and Urban Edge Mixed Use 3A along Alameda Avenue.

The proposed zoning is for industrial mixed use three with waivers, which will accommodate a mixture of uses with a three-story height limit.

One thing to note: because of the proposed waivers, a townhouse building form would not be allowed on the subject property with this zoning, and I'll explain why now.

The waiver language is on the screen here, and the intent of this waiver is to ensure that the site is not developed with only residential uses because the property is within the Sun Valley Manufacturing Preservation Area.

For existing land use, the site is currently vacant and currently used as an adventure van parking storage lot.

It's adjacent to industrial, commercial, and residential uses.

In this area, it's primarily one and two-story residential and industrial buildings.

We'll discuss the process for rezoning.

The application was deemed complete in February and informational notice was sent at that time.

The planning board public hearing and committee meeting were in September, and here we are at the City Council public hearing.

To date, staff has received two emails from the public before the planning board hearing that are attached to the staff report.

One was from a nearby property owner stating opposition to the request and expressing concerns about the future use of the property.

Staff was able to call that app uh that citizen and clarify uh what the request was and the West area plan guidance.

The other citizen had questions about waivers and concerns about parking.

Planning board held a hearing on September 3rd and voted unanimously to approve recommend approval.

Uh there were no public comments provided at Planning Board.

And staff has not heard any other uh public comments since before Planning Board.

Get into the review criteria.

There are three review criteria for a map amendment.

Uh the first is consistency with adopted plans.

Second is if it's in the public interest, and the third is consistency with neighborhood context, zone district purpose, and intent.

We will start with the adopted plans.

There are three adopted plans applicable to the subject property, a comprehensive plan, Blueprint Denver, and West and West Area Plan.

The proposed rezoning is consistent with comprehensive plan 2040 strategies, which are organized by Vision Element.

There are two strategies to highlight for this case that are here on the screen.

The proposed rezoning would allow for additional housing options near transit within an established neighborhood, which is consistent with the equitable affordable and inclusive goal two strategy B.

Also, the proposed map amendment would allow for compatible infill development in an established neighborhood near transit, which is consistent with environmental environmentally resilient goal eight strategy A.

So moving on to Blueprint Denver, the first category we look at is the neighborhood context, and the subject property is in a special district neighborhood context.

And the districts are described as areas with a specially designed purpose, such as education campus, civic center, or manufacturer area.

In this case, the subject property is within one of eight manufacturing preservation areas within Blueprint Denver.

It's the Sun Valley Manufacturing Preservation Area, which is a district with both innovation flex and value manufacturing place types.

So for the future place, the subject site is within the innovation flex future place type.

This future place type is a subcategory of the district's neighborhood context.

These places can be mixed use and offer a range of amenities and services.

Residential uses are compatible.

The proposed IMX3 with waivers zone districts can enable a small mixed-use building with industrial uses on the street level and residential uses above, which is consistent with the Innovation Flex future place type.

And for the growth strategy, we're also in the district's growth area, where we anticipate experiencing 15% of new employment growth and 5% of new housing growth by 2040.

Additionally, Blueprint Denver offers um guidance related to manufacturing areas, which is shown in this economics policy.

The subject property is a small site within an innovation flex future place type.

Residential uses are appropriate, and the proposed zoning is consistent with this guidance and the site's designation within the Sun Valley Manufacturing Preservation Area.

I will go to the West Area plan.

The West Area Plan was adopted by city council in 2023 and applies to the subject property.

The economy and housing chapters provide policies and strategies relevant to the proposed rezoning.

The subject property is underutilized, it's vacant, it's currently being used as a recreational van storage lot.

Higher intensity uses are encouraged here, and the proposed waiver language ensures industrial manufacturing and wholesale primary uses are on the street level for this site.

The potential for job opportunities is greater with the proposed waiver language included because the IMX3 zone district allows solely residential uses and would not require industrial uses.

There are also specific recommendations for the Valverde neighborhood.

The subject property is within the innovation flex district, and IMX zone districts are supported for the subject property.

The proposed waiver language balances this specific support with the economic policies above and the recommendations discussed from Blueprint Denver.

For the second review criteria, staff finds that the proposed map amendment furthers the public interest through implementation of the city's adopted land use plans on a currently vacant site.

In addition to providing industrial uses, the proposed rezoning could also benefit uh additional housing and can be compatibly integrated into the Valverde neighborhood.

And the third review criteria, the requested zone district is within the industrial neighborhood context, as we discussed, which generally consists of areas of industrial uses as well as areas subject to transition from residential to mixed-use areas.

This is appropriate for the subject property, and it's adjacent to the same base zone district of IMX3.

Within the industrial context, mix mixed-use zone districts accommodate a variety of uses and encourage affordable housing.

This is an apport appropriate purpose for a site when this area is comprised of both industrial and residential uses.

Thank you.

Thank you so much for the presentation.

We have two individuals signed up to speak this evening.

First up is Jesse Paris.

Jesse.

What kind of businesses are going to be here?

Mixed use commercial.

What kind of commercial are we talking about?

Um if somebody could please answer that, that would be greatly appreciated.

Also, what are you gonna do to address the uh parking concerns?

Um, with some comments about issues with parking.

What do you do to address that?

Um have you done a transportation study?

Uh for the proposal rezoning area.

That's the Mississippi or Alan.

Um I'm pretty familiar with that side of town, but if I want to west, I'm a West High alumni, along with the floor alboritas.

Um, I could please answer those questions.

I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you, and have a good night.

Thank you.

And the next speaker we have virtually, if I mispronounce your name, I'm so sorry.

Focian the good.

Focian the good.

No response.

All right.

That concludes our speakers.

Do we have questions from members of council on council bill 1272?

Councilmember Torres.

Thank you so much.

Um, Justin, a couple questions about um the uh proposed district designation.

I know that there were comments um uh that we saw either in writing or that were made at planning board around some of the uses that can um uh come up here, and some folks were worried about car-related uses or um uh junkyards or things like that.

Can you give me a little bit more context about what's not allowed under this designation?

Yes, thank you.

So, under the designation for a primary use on the street level, it needs to follow the industrial manufacturing and wholesale primary use classification in the zone district.

Uh so anything under IMX3 would be allowed there.

Um, one of the concerns, especially was a junkyard, and that's not permitted use uh for this zone district.

Uh, neither is uh just like car storage and parking.

Uh the current use of the property could remain as is if if they don't uh stop operation, but until it redevelops, that that use would not be allowed there.

Okay.

I was curious about um Sun Valley uh manufacturing preservation area, um, is more than just the Sun Valley neighborhood.

Obviously, we're talking about Valverde.

It also looks like it extends across the river into Sun Valley and Baker for that area.

Um this was or is currently designated to you.

Um would they have been allowed to build a duplex?

Yes, they still would have a ETUB if the property owner wanted to do that, they would be able to do that with current zoning.

Okay, perfect, thank you.

Um, and just for the applicant, I think that's probably is that you guys?

Yeah, can you come on up and and just um if you can give me uh uh an explanation of what's being planned for the property?

That would be great.

Good evening.

I'm Mark Homelish, I live in Englewood, Colorado.

Um, what's being planned is a single industrial building with the option of residential on the second floor or additional office space on the second floor.

So we're at the very beginning stages of uh concept plans for what that building looks like, but initially that's what we're planning.

And uh Mark, are you the owner of the parking lot?

Yeah, okay.

And it's been used as light manufacturing so far, or what's the purpose in kind of the um switch?

Um no, it's uh, well, it's being used as a um van storage lot for camper vans uh for lack of a better description.

So that's what it's being used for now.

Okay, and you want to actually get the business in there or kind of modify the the utility of the space.

Yeah, that business would not um continue to operate there in the event of uh of a new development for an industrial building.

Got it.

How are you determining what your you have what kind of factors into either building office space or a residential up top?

Um, whoever the end user might be, this and it may not be me.

So I'm also in the real estate business and and recently sold a property in Denver.

Um, and I I redevelop or I renovated the four adjacent homes on this block that were dilapidated and in need of repair.

Um, so I renovated the four, sold those four, and I'm left with the last vacant lot that we're discussing this evening.

Okay.

Um so I may have a need for it, I may not.

Um I have had some phone calls from local businesses that are interested in the location.

So I'm not sure I can answer your question directly because I don't know who I would be building it for.

Got it.

How big is the lot again?

70.

Don't hold me to this.

It's just over 7,000 square feet.

Okay.

Okay.

And there wouldn't be any um you wouldn't need to split it or anything in order to do what you're planning to do.

A parcel split?

No.

Okay.

Okay.

I don't have any other questions.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Councilmember Alvidres.

Thank you.

Um, I think my question's for Justin.

Um I was just looking at slide seven, and it shows how, and I'm sorry if you covered this, I try to follow the whole presentation.

Why is this one area different when it's surrounded by mostly IMX 3 and then also EMX3A?

And what is the B4 zoning?

Yeah, uh good questions.

So the rezonings of these areas likely came in in 2010 um with the Denver zoning code, and the and the residential pocket that was there was then um changed to the ETU B zone district there for the the yellow area where IMX3 was put around it.

So I think it was about preserving the housing there, is why that zone district got placed on it.

Uh the B4 zone district is from uh chapter 59 and is for it's like a business zone district that um allows a lot of uh commercial and office uh uses.

So even though this was never a residence, right?

This one I don't believe so.

It's been vacant.

Yeah, I think it's been vacant the whole time.

So even though it's not a residence, I'm looking around on Google Maps, and it looks like there are some limited residences.

It was just selected a whole pocket to be res stay residential.

Yeah.

Okay.

And we don't know why that was done that way.

I really don't know why.

Okay, yeah.

Um, okay, and then so the parking lot, what it what it's used for now is allowable in that residential zoning?

Yeah, um, from everything that Mark has explained, and um the fact that there's been actually zone violations for the property, but not for the use ever.

Um it is it's a it's a use that kind of got I guess grandfathered into the area for lack of a better term.

Okay, and can you tell me just a little bit more about what the new use will allow?

So besides industrial and residential on top, could it be all residential?

Could it be all industrial?

It can't be all residential.

It cannot.

It cannot, but it could it could be all um uh industrial essentially.

That's interesting.

So it looks like next door there's a house, but this zoning couldn't be all in.

Correct.

Right, and it's because the of the value manufacturing preservation uh designation there.

Okay.

All right, um, I think that's all my question.

Thank you.

Yeah.

Thank you, council Members.

Seeing no other council members in the queue.

The public hearing is closed.

Comments by members of council on council bill 1272.

Producer, can we take down the slide?

Thanks.

Councilmember Torres.

Thank you, Madam President.

Um, yeah, I'll be in support of the rezoning tonight.

I think one of the a couple things that I that I hear um and have seen written in comments uh from the neighbors is really this interest in kind of removing a lot of the car accumulation use uh on the property and making sure that it can't do that in the future, and it can't.

If this is granted, it would remain an industrial use, which um, you know, this entire corridor uh definitely has that smattering of that.

Um we do have residential next to it.

We see that in Loma Lincoln Park as well.

Um and in Sun Valley, kind of this um commingling of housing and industrial, but this does not replace housing.

Um, and in fact, I think improves the industrial outcome that can that can kind of be produced on that lot.

So um I will be uh supporting it tonight.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

See no other comments in the queue.

Madam Secretary, we'll call on Council Bill 1272.

Council members Albitrez.

Aye.

Flynn.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Heinz?

Aye.

Parity?

Aye.

Romera Campbell.

Aye.

Sawyer?

Aye.

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting, announce the results.

10 ayes.

10 ayes.

Council Bill 1272 has passed.

There being no further business before this body, this meeting is adjourned.