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

Tonight's coverage of Denver City Council starts now.

Good afternoon, everyone.

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

Today is Monday, February 9th, 2026.

Tonight's meeting is being interpreted into Spanish.

Sam or Jasmine, would you please introduce yourself and let our viewers know how to enable

translation on their devices?

Thank you for your name.

Hello, everyone.

My name is Sam Guzman with the CLC, joining you virtually through Zoom, and along with

my colleague Jasmine, who 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.

If you join us in the camera, please seek a assistant who can give you audifons to hear

in Spanish.

Thank you very much.

Thank you very much, Sam.

Welcome to the Council of the Denver City Council on Monday, February 9, 2026.

Council members, please join Councilmember Torres in the Pledge of Allegiance.

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

Council members, please then Council Member Torres, as they lead us in the Denver City Council land acknowledgement.

The Denver City Council honors and acknowledges that the land on which we reside is the traditional territory of the U, Coyann, and Arapaho people.

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.

This acknowledgement demonstrated 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.

Madam Secretary, roll call.

Ms. Sawyer.

Albizas? Here. Flynn? Here. Gilmore? Here. Gonzalez-Gutieres? Here. Hines? Here. Cashman? Here. Lewis? Present.

Charity? Here. Romero-Campo? Here. Flores? Here. Watson? Here. Madam President Sandoval? Here.

13 members present. There are 13 members present. Council has approval of the minutes.

Are there corrections to the minutes of February 2nd?

Seeing none, the meeting stand approved.

Council announcements.

Are there any council announcements from members?

Council Member Parity.

I got in the queue first and have to pull up my actual date.

But I have community coffee coming up in District 8 on East Colfax.

Anyone from around the city is welcome, of course.

We're happy to be doing it at Quinn's Coffee, which participated in the general strike last Friday and generally is just a really great and accessible community space.

Their coffee's great.

So I believe it is next Thursday from 10 to 11.30.

Yes, next Thursday, 10 to 11.30.

On my social media, you can RSVP if you want to or just show up.

That's always fine, too.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Council Member Torres?

Madam President. There are a couple things happening as it relates to Lama Lincoln Park

neighborhood, Burnham Yard, and the Denver Broncos. This Thursday, the Denver Broncos have their

required community information meeting. The presentation will be at 6, but doors will open

at 5. And this is at the Lama Recreation Center. This is where they present to community what

they're thinking of building, what they think they might do with the property that they're looking at.

in the Lama Lincoln Park neighborhood in the area known as Burnham Yard.

We have separated out the city's community planning and development process

called the Small Area Plan to its own meeting.

That will take place in March.

So this week's meeting is just the Broncos community information meeting.

Tonight, you probably still have time,

the community benefits agreement,

which will be organized by the residents and the neighbors in Lama Lincoln Park.

They are doing a focus group this evening around arts and business.

You can find all that information on our social media page.

If you're still interested, you have time to attend.

That's it.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

That's going on.

Our office is having constituent hours this week, Friday, February 13th, from 1 to 2.30

at the Athmar Park Branch Library.

This is a chance to stop by, share your ideas, voice concerns.

whether you have specific questions or want to connect, we'd love to see you there.

And again, that's this Friday, February 13th from 1 to 2.30.

Also, I want to share that in response to some of the assaults in District 7,

we are collaborating with Denver Police Department and the Denver Activist Women's Group

to offer a free self-defense training.

It will be at Harvard Gold Trek Center on March 7th.

So stay tuned for details.

followers of the media, Denver's Lucky District 7 to find out more. Thank you. Councilman Toyer.

Everyone that tomorrow, 5.30 p.m. is our annual District 5 community open house. It's going to

be at George Washington High School upstairs in the library at 5.30 p.m. So 5.30 to 7, stop by,

meet some of our city agencies

so you can chat directly

with the decision makers

and the people who are doing projects in our

district. And I want to just

also give a shout out to

Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutierrez's office

who will be there as well. So please come

join us tomorrow

5.30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

George Washington High School.

Thanks. Thank you.

Councilmember Watson. Thank you, Council

President. On

Wednesday, February 11th,

from 7.30 to 9 p.m.

I'm encouraging community to come out and join our office

and many other folks for the Dream and the Dreamer concert

in celebration of Black History Month

at the University of Denver Gates Concert Hall.

We'll have the Lamont Wind Ensemble

and the Spirituals Project will be presenting,

so encouraging folks to come out on Wednesday, February 11th,

from 7.30 to 9 p.m.

at the Gates Concert Hall at the University of Denver for a celebration of Black History Month.

And then on Thursday, February 12th from 5.30 to 7 p.m., we're hosting our monthly Registered Neighborhood Presidents meeting for District 9.

We'll be meeting at Silver City at 2121 Larimer Street, so a community can come out.

Our District 9 presidents will be there to answer questions and to have a discussion on impacts of all of the neighborhoods within the fine District 9.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Council Member Hines?

Thank you, Madam President.

On Wednesday, February 11th at 10 o'clock in the morning, we will be breaking ground for the new renovated accessible Skyline Park.

We would be excited if you would want to be there as well.

Skyline Park, it's Block 2, so between 16th and 17th on Arapaho.

We all deserve access to grass and trees and nature.

Basically, no one downtown actually has a backyard.

And so in many ways, Skyline Park is the backyard of everyone in downtown.

It's also a playground for those of us who also work and play downtown.

And then you've got a few minutes between dinner and a show.

Go by Skyline Park and breathe and enjoy the feeling once this place is renovated.

It will be more accessible for everyone, no matter who you are, your ability, or disability.

Thank you.

Thank you, Madam President.

And this Thursday at 6 o'clock, Denver Urban Gardens is hosting a community meeting at the Southwest Rec Center at 9200 West Saratoga Place.

And on the subject of a new community garden at the site of the Glenbrook Greenhouse.

Folks here might recall that a few years ago, DPS constructed a six-unit greenhouse facility on a 12-acre property that had been annexed in the 80s, 70s and 80s, in order to be a school.

And the enrollment never developed as the annexations fell through.

Sat there vacant for 40 years, and DPS put up this innovative project.

I thank them for it.

They grow food in there for DPS cafeterias.

But they have surplus land, so they have asked the community if they would like to participate in a community garden project.

We said yes about two years ago.

They now have the funding for it.

So come out to the Southwest Rec Center, 9200 West Saratoga Place, 6 o'clock this Thursday,

and take a look at the design, give your comments on it,

and hear about some other things they want to do with the rest of that land.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

In observance of President's Day, City Council will not convene next Monday, February 16th.

The meeting will instead be held on Tuesday, February 17th.

And in honor of President's Day, I wanted to share a quote from one of my presidents,

Barack Obama.

Hope is that thing inside us that insists, despite all the evidence to the contrary,

that something better awaits us if we have the courage to reach for it and work for it and fight for it.

Thank you all.

There are no presentations.

There are no communications.

There are two proclamations being read this afternoon.

Council Member Flynn, would you please read Proclamation 0131?

I guess I will, Madam President.

Thank you.

This is Proclamation 26-0131, Proclamation honoring Keith Erfmeyer.

for more than 30 years of service to the people of Denver.

Whereas Keith Irfmeyer started with the city and county of Denver in 1994

as an intern in assessment,

and based upon his excellent work,

was offered a permanent job as an appraiser,

which was delayed for several weeks because of a paperwork mix-up,

whoever heard of those things around here,

or budget shortfalls,

and who heard of those?

No one really knows.

And whereas over the next eight years,

Keith rose to the level of senior appraiser on the commercial team,

earning the respect of his fellow appraisers and eventually being promoted to a supervisor in 2003.

And whereas, despite being the youngest supervisor and the youngest person on the commercial team,

Keith hit the ground running and made changes within the section to increase the efficiencies on his team.

And whereas, Keith was again promoted to deputy assessor slash chief appraiser for Denver County

before becoming the assessor in 2014.

And whereas in just three short years in this very important position, Keith was voted as the 2017 Colorado Assessor of the Year, which I'm told is a.k.a. Nerd of the Year, by the Colorado Assessors Association, an organization for which he has served in various leadership positions supporting counties throughout the state of Colorado, and was often seen giggling about linear regression jokes at the Colorado Assessors Association events.

Hey, who's not done that?

And whereas Keith's commitment to the entire state and the deep respect he has earned for his knowledge and integrity

is one of the reasons he has been called upon numerous times to testify at the Capitol on various property tax bills.

And whereas Keith has served as a vital leader on the Department of Finance's senior leadership team

by both his thoughtful feedback and comedic timing, better than mine, I hope.

and whereas Keith has given unfailing and prompt responses to council requests for information and data

that are essential to carrying out the council's authority in legislating and governing,

including serving council members' constituents in a timely manner.

And whereas Keith demonstrates humility, kindness, and support for all of his staff while he leads by example

and fights for what is best for the assessor's office, his staff, and the community,

while serving as an anchor not only to assessment before the city and county of Denver,

and whereas Keith rocks an elf outfit better than Buddy the Elf,

and we thank his wife Alyssa and his sons Grant, Logan, Blake, and Dylan for sharing him with us these many years.

Now therefore, be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council, Section 1,

that Denver City Council recognizes Keith Erfmeyer for his more than 30 years of service to the people of Denver,

and congratulates him on his retirement from the city and his new position as state property tax administrator.

Section 2, 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 Keith Irfmeyer.

Thank you, Council Member Flynn. Your motion to adopt?

Thank you. I move that proclamation 26-0131 be adopted.

It has been moved and seconded.

I'll start with comments.

Comments, I'll start with you, Councilman Brooklyn.

Thank you, Madam President.

I expected to see him in the elf outfit.

He's shown up in regular street garb.

But I just want to say to Heath publicly what I've said to him privately many, many times

through my ten and a half years here so far,

that I'm very grateful for the prompt and full data request that he's fulfilled.

I know I'm not the only one up here who's called on you.

I've asked for some tremendous amounts of data over the years.

I said, hey, can you tell me how many multifamily units exist in Council District 2

versus single family versus commercial?

And I got the answer by the afternoon.

So he's got, I hope you've left like the password, all this stuff with your successor.

I see that the finance team is here and I see someone that we honored recently also who

retired who came back because you can't just, just can't stay away.

And they're here to support you in your retirement, but you're not retiring.

You're moving on to maybe a tougher job, Keith.

So good luck with that.

And I wish you the best of luck.

I'm sure my colleagues will join me in that.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Council Member Cashman.

Thank you, Madam President.

What he said, yeah, I wish you the best in your new position.

Hate that you're going.

Hate that you're going.

Councilman Flynn said it perfectly.

You really set a high bar for responsiveness.

always

it never seemed like it was

an unfair ask

always understood the question

got the information back

and it is you know

I'm sure at times

agencies think we're

a bit of a pain

we don't work unless we need the information

and your responsiveness

really helped

me do my job and helped me

serve my constituents

better and I'll forever be grateful for that.

So, yeah, best of luck.

We'll miss having you around.

Hope to see you around the city.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you.

Councilman Torres?

Thank you so much.

Keith, just thank you so much.

You've been so, you've been a teacher as I come in and answer and are asked to answer

really complicated questions about property tax increases, how landmarks might vary some of those assessments,

how they don't, and what might be happening in our respective districts.

And always friendly, always really willing to dive into a really complicated question.

And it doesn't surprise me.

I think somebody who dedicates this much time to the city of Denver really cares about it.

And so thank you for that.

And good luck.

And I hope we get another Nerd of the Year.

That's really important.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Councilman Parity.

Yeah, at this point, it's just, you know,

but I have been so appreciative of Keith's ability to, like,

guide me as a brand-new council member through really complex stuff.

It's super hard to communicate sometimes about the things that,

the agencies do complicated work

and they understand it really well

and introducing it to somebody who

is walking in completely fresh off the street

is not easy.

So I just, I appreciated that.

I appreciated that on behalf of my team.

I appreciated you helping us answer constituent questions

but mostly with

being a person who was willing to help us along our

learning curve so we could do the right thing

up here. I just,

I literally remember sitting with you

and you giving me this whole 101

and answering all my completely ridiculous questions.

And I'm so grateful for that.

Thank you.

Thanks, Madam President.

You're welcome.

Councilman Sawyer.

I'm not there in person, but I just wanted to say thank you so much.

It has been an absolutely fantastic almost seven years that I've been with you.

And I truly, truly, truly appreciate your willingness and ability to meet with constituents directly when asked to, because what you do is incredibly complicated.

And sometimes it is virtually impossible for me to take that information that you have in your brain and condense it down and share it with someone else.

And so you have been an absolutely fantastic partner to the District 5 office.

And I'm just so grateful for everything that you have done for me, for our staff, for our residents, and just truly wish you all the best in what's to come.

And again, I apologize that I'm not there in person to tell you this face to face.

But thanks for everything, Keith, and best of luck.

Council Potem, Mayor Campbell.

Thank you, Madam President.

I just want to echo my colleagues' sentiments, but specifically, there was a meeting that we have in the Denver South.

So in the southern part of the city, there's an interjurisdictional group, and it's Denver South, and they've had panels, and a panel most recently, where you are sitting there, and you are a leader amongst your peers.

There were questions that were asked that you were so clear that other counties were looking to you, like the question would be asked and then they looked to you for what those answers are, even in other counties, which was amazing.

And I just want to say thank you.

It was really impressive in how well you've represented the city in any form that you are at.

So thank you so much.

Kate, thank you so much for all of the help.

I've done some overlay extravaganzas in Northwest Denver.

I'll never forget the first time when I called you up and said I wanted to rezone a whole entire neighborhood for accessory dwelling units.

And you were like, what are the boundaries?

And I was like, it's the entire neighborhood.

And you were like, the entire neighborhood?

And I was like, the entire neighborhood.

So thank you for all of that help in getting my newsletters out, getting all of the making sure that my data backed up the data from CPD to make sure that I was getting not just assessments, just records, being able to look at shingled roofs, looking at all of the information that I looked at when I really dug into the overlay in Sunnyside.

your office and the help that you provided helped me create new anti-displacement tools for my

community in a neighborhood that had been rapidly gentrified. So I don't think I ever told you that,

but thank you so much for all of that help. Most recently, thank you for me on a whim calling me

right before Christmas and saying, here's a situation we have on a public hearing that's

happening tonight. It's here tonight. And they said, Hey, if I work on this in for the Knights

of Columbus, here's what I've been hearing. Here's what I can do. And you're like, here's how I can

meet you halfway, Councilwoman. Um, and we always just gave each other our word. And I always

appreciated you keeping your side of that word. Cause all I have in my side is my word. So just,

you're going to be greatly missed. Um, and your responsiveness is your, we have a list of people

in our council office and my office manager, Gina, be like, oh, he'll get right back to us.

I don't even have to monitor if they're going to answer because oftentimes we have a hard

time monitoring all of the responses back.

And it was just easy when we knew that you were on it.

So thank you and congratulations on the next career.

I look forward to seeing you and seeing what you learn on the other side of state government.

I bet it's going to be a total different ballgame, but I'm sure you're totally prepared.

Madam Secretary, roll call.

Albitrez?

Aye.

Flynn?

Aye.

Gilmore?

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez?

Aye.

Hines?

Aye.

Cashman?

Aye.

Lewis?

Aye.

Parity?

Aye.

Romero Campbell?

Aye.

Torres?

Aye.

Aye.

Watson?

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval?

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting announce results.

13 ayes.

13 ayes.

Proclamation 0131 has been adopted.

We now have time for the proclamation acceptance.

Council Member Flynn, who would you be willing, who will you be inviting up to accept the proclamation?

Thank you, Madam President.

At great risk, I'd like to invite Keith Erfmeyer up, Nerd of the Year.

and I want to hear your best linear regression, Jay.

As much as Stephanie would like me to talk about Zillow,

I will refrain from doing that.

So really, at least it was a nerd of the millennium or something like that.

That would have made me a little bit self-conscious.

But honestly, assessors aren't usually hits at cocktail parties, as you all know.

But two things I've learned.

One is I'm told I'm wrong a lot.

and number two is people don't like to see me coming

and that really prepared me for raising teenagers as well.

So it got me out in front of that.

No, really, as was mentioned, I started here as an intern

and man, I remember my first day, I'm just, I am working for Denver.

I couldn't believe I was working for Denver

and I spent 32 years working for Denver

and I don't think it ever waned or swayed a bit.

It was my pride.

I would tell people I worked for Denver.

I often wouldn't tell them what I did because that would go down a rabbit hole.

I didn't really want to go down with many people.

But I was always extremely proud to work for Denver.

And part of the reason is I always felt like the leadership, whether it was city council, mayor's office, appointees,

were so passionate about doing the right thing for Denver.

It was just infectious.

All the way down the organization, wherever I happened to be.

So blessings on your continued work there.

The Denver staff can feel that from all of you and the mayor as well.

A lot of the recognition he gave me, quite honestly, is really about my staff.

My staff was incredible here, and they still are.

And I expect them to continue that great work.

I think that standard has been set, and I really, really hope that continues.

But staff that are there, staff that have long since left,

I just want to thank them publicly.

They were amazing.

I was proud to be the Denver assessor for 12 years.

I just hope I can love my new job half as much as I loved my job here in Denver.

So thank you for the recognition.

I really appreciate it.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Council Member Watson, would you please read Proclamation 0130?

Yes, Council President.

Proclamation number 260130, honoring the late Denver Police Division Chief, Armidia

Gordon.

Whereas in 1880, a group of black civic leaders attended Denver City Council meeting and demanded

that the Denver Police Department and the Denver Fire Department began hiring black officers and firefighters.

And whereas on April 15, 1880, the Denver mayor, Richard Sorpris, swore Isaac Brown in as Denver's first black Denver police officer.

Brown served the department for 10 years.

And whereas since that time, the residents of the city and county of Denver have been extremely well served by hundreds of black officers.

And whereas Hermedia Gordon was born in Linville, Alabama on April 20, 1944, and was raised by hardworking parents who instilled in her the values of integrity and dedication, which would be the hallmarks that shaped her life.

And whereas Hermedia grew up as a bright and imaginative child who adored her family.

After moving to Denver, she graduated from Manuel High School, Diebold's,

and later attended Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado.

And whereas, while attending college, she met James Gordon Jr., who she married in 1963.

Together they had three children, Byron Gordon, Deanna Gordon, and James W. Gordon III.

and whereas later as a single mother,

her media held many jobs before beginning a distinguished 30-year career

with the Denver Police Department in 1973,

and whereas she joined the Denver Police Department

where she broke many barriers and was a trailblazer in every sense.

Her first assignment was patrol in Denver Police District 3.

Later, she was the first black female homicide detective

and was promoted to become the first black female homicide sergeant.

And whereas her hard work and attention to detail continued

as she was appointed by Denver Police Chief David Michaud

as the first black division chief,

whereas she oversaw special operations, traffic, and the airport.

And whereas she was later appointed by Denver Police Chief Gerald Whitman

to the prestigious position of division chief of investigations,

She was the third black officer to reach the rank of division chief after Casey Simpson and C.T. Smith.

And whereas our media Gordon passed away November 10th, 2025.

Many friends and colleagues remember Chief Gordon for many for more than her titles.

She was a mentor, a friend, a source of strength for many officers.

She was always available for a kind word, a wise counsel, or a warm hug.

Her impact extended far beyond her personal achievements.

Genuinely cared for all people.

And now, therefore be proclaimed by the Denver City Council, Section 1, that the Denver City Council acknowledges the important and significant historic role that former Denver Division Chief Hermedia Gordon played in development of the Denver Police Department.

and her commitment of the safety to the residents of the City and County of Denver.

In Section 2, 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 copies be transmitted to the Gordon family,

the Denver Police Department,

the Denver Black Police Officers Organization,

and to the Denver Police Museum.

Thank you.

Council Member Watson, your motion to adopt.

I move that proclamation 260130 be adopted.

It has been moved and seconded.

Comments by members of Council.

Council Member Watson.

Thank you so much, Council President.

I want to say that for Black History Month, the opportunity to elevate stories of the ways in which our community has had an indenable impact on Denver that has changed the history of this city is important.

But it's also important to call the names of those who actually led that charge.

and Division Chief Amidia Jackson.

I just messed the name up, my gosh.

Amidia Gordon played that role.

In a time when women in these leadership positions within Denver Police

was not something that was the norm,

she led in all areas of Denver Police Department.

You can be extremely proud of your mom and the role that she led and the example of her life and her life story and the actions that she did.

We are all a better city, a safer city because of her leadership and because of her example of a strong black woman in a leadership position.

She's provided an example for so many others to follow in her lead.

So thank you and your family for the many, many sacrifices you've made, allowing your mother to serve the city and county of Denver for such a long time.

My mom was born the same year as your mom in 1944.

So I know the life and the struggle and the importance of the historic impact that she's had.

And so thank you for being here tonight.

Thank you for allowing us to have your mom for so many years.

Thank you Madam President.

Council Member Carity.

Yeah, I just wanted to say a couple of us on Council,

Prochelmur Ramal Campbell and myself,

and I hope I'm not forgetting anyone,

and Council Member González Gutierrez,

have lost parents and in-laws in the last year,

many of whom were in public service too

when we were kids, and so I just want to say

I'm glad that you all are here tonight

and I'm sorry that you didn't

hear this proclamation

a little sooner than she could have heard herself.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Yeah. Council Member Watson, your motion to adopt?

I move to adopt proclamation number 260130.

It has been moved.

Okay. Comments by members of Council. Council Member Watson?

I think we did it.

Madam Secretary, roll call. Sorry.

Council Member Sawyer?

Aye.

Albitrez.

Aye.

Flynn.

Aye.

Gilmore.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Heinz.

Aye.

Cashman.

Aye.

Lewis.

Aye.

Harady.

Aye.

Romero-Campel.

Aye.

Torres.

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the vote and announce the results.

13 ayes.

13 ayes.

Proclamation 0130 has been adopted.

We now have time for the proclamation acceptance.

Member Watson, who will be inviting up to accept the proclamation?

I'll be inviting up Division Chief Megan Doach and Deanna Gordon.

Chief Thomas could not be here today, but I am more than happy to get to stand in his place today,

getting to work with Chief Gordon many years ago.

All of those things are true, but in addition, she was inspiring

and absolutely left a legacy on everything she touched within the police department.

So, Deanna?

I wanted to thank you guys.

I really do appreciate it.

One of the things that I wanted you to know about my mother was

that she was the most resilient person I had ever met.

And I'm sorry, that from her just being resilient after my dad left,

she was able to advance her career.

Her brother became a police officer.

My brother became a police officer for the city of Denver.

I was a sheriff.

My son is currently a sheriff.

And my daughter works at the D.C. Detention Center in Washington as a licensed clinical social worker.

And so all of that came from just my mom being resilient.

So I want to thank you guys for just acknowledging her.

I knew how strong she was and how much she was a force in my life and in my children's lives.

and hopefully, you know, the city of Denver also.

So I appreciate it.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Madam Secretary, please read the bills for introduction.

From the Community Planning and Housing Committee, 26-0062, a bill for an ordinance changing the zoning classification for 4631 North Josephine Street in Elyria, Swansea.

From the Finance and Business Committee, 26-0067, a bill for an ordinance authorizing expenditures in the Human Services Special Revenue Fund based on a letter of intent from the State of Colorado to award funding to the City and County of Denver for the Community Services Block Grant, CSBG, program for the 2026 program year.

26-0072, a bill for an ordinance approving the proposed donation between the City and County of Denver and Museum of Denver for six vintage deus desks from the City Council offices citywide.

And from the Health and Safety Committee 25-1030, a bill for an ordinance approving a proposed intergovernmental agreement between the city and county of Denver and Denver Public Schools to provide DPS schools with chef education to enhance fresh garden table food access across 166 schools funded by the Healthy Food for Denver's Kids Initiative citywide.

and 26-0041, a bill of foreign ordinance approving a proposed third amendatory agreement between the City and County of Denver

and Office of the Alternate Defense Council to contract with municipalities to provide counsel for indigent criminal defendants

when a conflict exists for the Office of the Municipal Public Defender citywide.

Thank you. Council Members, this is your last opportunity to call out an item.

Council Member Torres, will you make the motion for us this evening?

Yes, Madam President.

Now I'll do a recap.

Under resolutions, Council Resolution 2150 has been called out for a vote by Council Member

Lewis.

Under bills for introduction, Council Bill 260072 has been called out for comments by

Council Member Lewis.

Under bills for final consideration, no items have been called out.

Under pending, no items have been called out.

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

Council Bill 260072, a bill for an ordinance approving a proposed donation

between the City and County of Denver and Museum of Denver for six vintage

dais desks from the City Council offices. Council Member Lewis, please go ahead with your comments on Council Bill 0072.

Thank you. So we're currently in these chambers because we're renovating the council chambers as part of the renovation, the old council desks are being retired.

and so I wanted to thank Councilman Flynn and the central office staff for

their execution and donating these historic desks to the Museum of

Denver. I really appreciate that we are preserving this history as we move into

a new era and I'm grateful as ever for the historic preservation from Councilman

Finn that you bring to this council so thank you and thank you to central

office staff. Thank you. Councilman Flynn. Thank you Madam President. I thank you Councilman Lewis.

us. Those desks are truly historic and to see them end up in places where they can be

recognized. I mentioned to Ms. Gordon when we were speaking that the desk that, and I

said this before on the floor when we left the chamber in December, that the desk that

Councilman Cashman occupied before we moved was the last desk used by seven-term Council

Elvin Caldwell.

And I'm hoping still that

we can work with DPL, Denver Public

Library, to have that particular desk

donated to the

Blair Caldwell Library

and have that deposited there.

I'd love to see us

close that deal. Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you, Council Member Lewis, for

working on this, and thanks

to the Denver

Museum for taking

that on. A former council person helps run that organization, Councilwoman Black, so I kind of

nudged her. We appreciate your work there. So thank you to them. Next item, Madam Secretary,

please put the next item on our screen. Council Resolution 25-2150, a resolution approving a

proposed third and mandatory lease agreement between the city and county of Denver and the

Salvation Army to operate a congregate shelter at 1901 29th Street in the Five Points neighborhood

in Council District 9. Council Member Torres, would you please put Council Resolution 25-2150

on the floor for adoption? I move that Resolution 25-2150 be adopted.

It has been moved and seconded. Questions or comments by members of Council?

on Council Resolution 252150.

Council Member Lewis?

Yeah, so just for any note on this item

to reflect my ongoing dissatisfaction

with the shelter operations with the Salvation Army,

which is consistent with my past positions.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Madam Secretary, roll call on Council Resolution 252150.

Council Member Sawyer?

Aye.

Alvarez?

Aye.

Flynn?

Aye.

Gilmore?

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez?

Aye.

Hines?

Aye.

Cashman?

Aye.

Lewis?

Aye.

Parity?

Aye.

Romero-Campbell?

Aye.

Torres?

Aye.

Watson?

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval?

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.

10 ayes.

10 ayes.

Council resolution 2150 has been adopted.

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 member Torres, will you please put the resolutions for adoptions and the bills on final consideration for final passage on the floor?

I move that the resolutions and proclamations be adopted and bills on final consideration be placed upon final consideration

and do pass in a block for the following items.

25-1944, 26-0060, 26-0059, 26-0064, 26-0073, 26-0061,

26-0063, 26-0069, 26-0070, 26-0071, 26-0065, 26-0066, 26-0068, 26-0083, 26-0005,

and 26-0022. Thank you. It has been moved and seconded. Madam Secretary, roll call.

Council Member Sawyer. Aye. Alvarez. Aye. Flynn. Aye. Gilmore. Aye. Gonzalez-Gutierrez. Aye.

Hines

Cashman

Lewis

Parity

Romero-Campo

Torres

Watson

Madam President Sandoval

Madam Secretary, close of any announced results

13 ayes

The resolutions have been adopted and the bills have been placed upon

Final consideration and do pass

Tonight there will be a required public hearing on Council Bill 260056

designating 1555 North Grant Street as a structure for preservation and a required public hearing on Council Bill 25-21-47,

changing the zoning classification for 3050 Richard Allen Court in Skyland.

If there are no objections from members of Council, we will recess until 530.

Before reconvening the regular meeting, City Council will provide a half-hour general public comment session to hear from the public on City Matters,

matters except for any matter that is scheduled for a legally required public hearing.

The general public comment session will begin at 5 p.m.

Hey, Denver.

Here's what's happening around the mile high this week.

Serious stirring and shaking is about to happen,

thanks to the return of Speed Rack,

the world's first and only international all-women and femme bartending competition.

100% of the proceeds from the event produced will go to breast cancer education,

prevention, and research.

Get a drink and make a difference.

The rail yard is finally open.

Head out to Ruby Hill Park with your skis or board and hit the rails.

It's open to beginners and pros, and you can get free gear rentals on Saturdays and Sundays.

If you're not into writing, hit the sledding hill just a short walk away.

The Lamont Wind Ensemble presents The Dream and the Dreamer,

a powerful music celebration honoring Black History Month.

The evening features historical reenactments between musical selections.

The centerpiece is Holland's The Dream and the Dreamer,

arranged especially for the Lamont Wind Ensemble,

weaving together music and history in a stirring tribute to hope, justice, and community.

Grab your friends and head to the Spirit House for a Galentine's night built around bad date bingo.

Craft cocktails and a little harmless oversharing.

You'll be laughing through real-life bad date submissions because healing is communal

and leaning fully into the chaos together.

For couples bold enough to flirt with superstition, wildly in love, and ready to turn Friday the 13th into the luckiest day of their lives, this is your moment.

If you believe true love beats bad luck every time, step into the atrium and say, I do.

Check the website to make sure you've got your papers in order.

Brazilian Music Colorado engages diverse communities through music and arts by creating inclusive cultural experiences that bring together Brazilian and multicultural audiences.

The organization uses music as a universal language to foster connection, understanding, and shared celebration.

Welcome to Lunar New Year with one of Denver's most vibrant cultural celebrations.

This annual community festival hosted by Tiger Kims Academy brings together families, local businesses, performers, and martial arts students from across Colorado.

Stay up to date with what's happening in Denver by following our socials.

And you can always ask our chatbot, Sunny, online or by text.

We're going to beat the Bills this Saturday

and of course fully expect for you to join us

in hosting a Super Bowl parade this next February.

You know, we're looking at every piece of the puzzle

to make it safer and more affordable to get where you want to go.

Today, hi Ottawa.

Council will now reconvene from our earlier session.

There is no unfinished business from the earlier session.

There is one proclamation being read this evening.

Sponsors, is everyone here for the proclamation, or are there some people outside?

Can we go to 5.30?

Because it was like a little over too hard.

It was like one minute and then they had,

it was a Spanish speaker, so it had taken six.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Thank you so much.

They're amazing families.

They're amazing.

They really need us.

I'll just give it a minute, council members, to transition in and out.

so

uh

Is everybody in here that needs to be in here?

Yeah?

Sheriff's, is that

Fire Marshal, is that everybody?

Okay.

Will you ask them if they're here for the 530 proclamation?

Fire Marshal.

Sumo, is that everybody, do you think?

Yeah, for the 530, will you check?

Okay.

Yes.

Thank you.

Okay, perfect.

Okay.

Council member.

I think we're good now.

Council members Parity, Torres and Watson, would you please read Proclamation 0133?

Yes, this is a proclamation recognizing Ramadan 14.7.8 and aid outfitter.

Whereas the Denver City Council recognizes and honors Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar,

observed by Muslims in Denver and throughout the world as a sacred time of fasting, prayer, reflection, service, charity, and spiritual renewal.

And whereas Ramadan is a month in which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset as an act of worship and discipline,

while increasing devotion, recitation of the Qur'an, charitable giving, and service to neighbors,

strengthening empathy for those facing hunger, hardship, illness, displacement, or isolation.

Whereas the Islamic calendar is lunar, and the beginning and the end of Ramadan

and the other Islamic months are traditionally determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon.

Therefore, the start and end of dates of Ramadan and the celebration of Id

may vary by local sightings and by corresponding Gregorian dates

and are observed in accordance with local religious authorities and community announcements.

Issued by the Colorado Iman, Council for the State of Colorado.

Whereas Ramadan 14.7 AH is anticipated to begin at sundown on Tuesday, February 17, 2026,

and is supposed to be a fasting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026,

and is anticipated to conclude at sundown on Thursday, March 19, 2026, subject to the moon sighting.

And whereas Eid al-Fitr, the festival of breaking of the fast, is anticipated to begin at sundown on Thursday, March 19th, 2026 through Friday, March 20th, 2026, subject to the moon sighting.

It is a time of joy and celebration for Muslim families and communities beginning with the special and large congregational prayer known as Salat al-Aid, held across mosques and open spaces, signifying collective worship and unity.

Whereas a central tradition of Aid al-Fatar is Zakat al-Fatar, a charitable donation given so that individuals and families in need may share in the joy, celebration, and dignity of the holiday.

The Eid holiday brings together families and communities for shared meals, gift-giving, festive attire, and local costumes,

and reflect the rich diversity of Muslims in the city of Denver and across the world.

Whereas Denver's Muslim community, representing many cultures, languages, and backgrounds, strengthens the city and county of Denver

through contributions in education, health care, small business and entrepreneurship, public service, arts and culture,

philanthropy, civic engagement, and ongoing community support.

Amen.

Whereas throughout the year and especially during Ramadan,

Denver's Muslim organizations, mosques, and community partners

contribute to the well-being of the city through charitable relief,

volunteerism, food assistance, youth mentorship,

family support, and interfaith collaboration,

advancing the shared values of compassion, service,

mutual aid, and neighborly care.

Whereas, in the spirit of building a compassionate, caring, and unified community, the Denver Muslim community would like to invite the Denver City Council and the Denver community at large to attend Iftar, breaking of the fast, meal with the Denver Muslim community at one of our mosque organizations during any of the days in the month of Ramadan.

Now therefore be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council section one that the Denver City Council hereby recognizes and honors Ramadan

1447 H anticipated from sundown Tuesday February 17th

2026 through sundown Thursday March 19th 2026 subject to the moon sighting and local observance

section two that the Denver City Council hereby recognizes and extends greetings for a doll fitter

Anticipated to begin sundown Thursday March 19th 2026 with eight prayer and celebrations on Friday March 20th

human, setting, and local servants.

Section 3, that the Denver City Council encourages all residents to reflect upon the universal

values uplifted during Ramadan, patience, gratitude, mercy, generosity, and care for

the most vulnerable, and to continue strengthening a city rooted in dignity, belonging, and service

to one another.

In Section 4, that the Denver City Council extends its sincere wishes for a blessed Ramadan

and a joyful aid to Muslim residents, families, and communities across Denver and around the

world acknowledging their contributions traditions and shared commitment to

compassion service and unity I move that the proclamation be adopted it has been

moved

and seconded comments by members of council I'll start with the sponsors

Councilmember Parity, then Watson, then Jim first?

Yeah, I just wanted to say that it's an honor to do this this year

and that we're actually managing to do it before Ramadan begins.

Last year, we were a little late, but we did our best.

I'm grateful to my co-sponsors,

and I really have been grateful since last year's proclamation

to get a chance to get to know some of the mosques

and some of the community organizations in the Muslim community a little bit better.

Just like all of the faith traditions in Denver,

You all are doing a lot of work to feed neighbors.

You all did a lot of work when SNAP benefits were set off.

And you all do a lot of work to just make sure that in the day-to-day that everyone in our community is connected and feels that they're a part of the city.

So I'm just really grateful for that and honored to get to speak such beautiful words tonight.

Thank you all.

Councilmember Watson.

Thank you, Councilmember Perry, for including me in this proclamation.

and to the Muslim community.

I know in District 9, the rich tradition of support

that the mosque in District 9 have provided

for families in need throughout.

As Council Member Parity shared,

when families were facing disruption because of SNAP benefits

and different impacts on the federal government,

you all gave not only to Muslim families,

but you gave to residents in District 9.

I'm looking at the audience of many faces of folks that I know

that have been in community for decades supporting and giving.

Thank you so much for your leadership.

Thank you for the opportunity for us to greet you and welcome and celebrate Ramadan with you.

Thank you for the good works that you do on a daily basis.

Councilmember Torres.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you so much for being here and letting us be a part of this wonderful celebration with you all as well.

Prior to this line of work for me, I was the director of the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs for 18 years and had the great opportunity to meet community members from across the world and all faiths.

And it was just a really wonderful experience being able to get to know our local mosques, our local imams, our local community leaders.

It was just the most warm and welcoming spaces I'd ever been to.

So thank you so much and thank you for letting us be a part of your celebration this year.

Thank you. Thank you all.

Madam Secretary, roll call.

Council members Hines.

Aye.

Sawyer?

Alízaras?

Aye.

Flynn?

Aye.

Gilmore?

González-Cortieres?

Aye.

Cashman?

Aye.

Lewis?

Aye.

Parity?

Aye.

Romero-Campbell?

Aye.

Torres?

Aye.

Watson?

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval?

Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting.

Now to the results.

11 ayes.

11 eyes proclamation 0133 has been adopted.

We now have time for the proclamation acceptance.

Come from the party.

Who will you be inviting us to accept the proclamation?

Well, I know several organizations and people that are here,

and I would just say, if I missed anybody,

we tried to get the invitation out broadly.

So please feel free to introduce anyone else

in the community that should have a chance

to participate in acceptance.

But I see Imam Qalila from the Downtown Denver Islamic Center.

I see Imam Ali from Masjid Taqwa. I see Muslim Youth for Positive Impact and of course Linda Barwan who brought us the idea of this proclamation.

So feel free, anyone who would like to start, I will leave it to you all to say a few words of acceptance at the mic if you want to.

You got drafted.

By acclamation.

Thank you so much, everyone.

I'm not the first one supposed to speak. We have our elder here, Imam Ali, and he's very generous enough to give me the floor.

But chair, members of Denver City Council, everyone watching or even listening, assalamu alaikum. Peace be upon you.

Thank you for honoring Ramadan and Eid with this beautiful proclamation and a special gratitude to Councilmember Sarr Paradi for continuing engagement with our community.

and Councilmember Jamie Torres, and Councilmember Darrell Watson,

thank you so much for endorsing this proclamation

and helping many in our community feel seen, protected, and welcomed in Denver.

I'm here today as the Imam of Downtown Denver Islamic Center, Masjid al-Shuhada,

carrying the voices of Muslims in Denver.

immigrants and refugees those born here and trace their families for years african-american muslims

whose ancestors were enslaved here latinos and latinas arabs asians europeans men and women

elders and the children people from every corner of the earth muslims are not one ethnicity a lot

of people do not know that. We are a faith community united by one belief. God is one.

Indivisible, infinite, and merciful. And Muhammad, sallallahu alayhi wa sallam, is his last prophet.

And they want to speak about something many families, actually, especially our Muslim sisters,

mothers and daughters do not say out loud because it's exhausting to keep repeating the same thing.

it is that feeling of being targeted.

The moment you step in a store or you see the eyes, the extra watching,

the cold tone that says you are not from here.

You are a stranger and you are not even a welcome stranger.

Sometimes it's subtle, sometimes it's cruel.

Here in our own Denver metro area, actually a local security guard,

born and raised here, and members of our community,

Embrace Islam recently, came to me seeking help.

She said, I've been facing religious discrimination

on my work that I've been working for years,

but because I started to be visible as a Muslim wearing my scarf.

She was not a Muslim, but the second she embraces Islam

and that became visible to her work environment,

her supervisor directed her to remove it

and told her, move that thing.

Her supervisor directed her to remove it using dismissive and derogatory language

towards her religious attire.

Her hijab is a symbol of her freedom.

And her devotion to God has become a painful irony

that her commitment to her faith is becoming weaponized against her.

So, and even in our schools, our kids carry it too.

A student in Aurora, for example, told the CBS News that being mocked with terrorists, Osama Bin Laden, has been normal.

And other students said, I really feel unsafe.

It's not politics for them, everyone.

It is childhood.

It's belonging.

And this is mental health for our community members.

This is whether they walk into the classes with confidence or dread.

and yet despite this racism, despite this anti-Muslim hate and sentiment, our community still serves.

We are doctors and nurses, engineers and teachers, scientists and academics, business owners,

transportation workers, janitors and minimum wage workers, city, state and federal employees,

activists, chaplains and imams building Denver with our hands and our hearts.

and thank you for seeing that

Ramadan anticipated to begin

at sundown of February 17th

2026

it is a month when Muslims fast

from dawn to sunset

it is a month that transforms

pain to purpose

we have a verse in the Quran

that Allah says

and I will quote it in Arabic

then I will translate it

I'udhu billahi minash shaytanir rajim

Bismillah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim

Ya ayyuhal ladhina amanu kutiba alaykum usiyamu

kama kutiba ala ladhina min qabilikum

kama kutiba ala ladhina min qabilikum la'allakum tattaqun

And that verse mentioned in chapter number 2, verse 183,

Says fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for people before you.

And wait for the next so that you may become God conscious.

How much we need that today.

Ramadan is a month of gratitude.

And God ties Ramadan to gratitude.

Even it's mentioned in the Quran so that in the same chapter, two verses afterwards, so that you may be grateful.

So Ramadan teaches us and everyone else can draw from that universal belief that to be grateful.

Ramadan is a month to teach his service, feeding others, even when we are ourselves are tired and hungry.

In chapter number 76 in the Quran, verse number eight to nine, God described the believers,

they feed the poor, the orphan and the captive saying, we feed you for God alone.

We seek no reward and no thanks.

And our scripture even rejects discrimination at any root.

When God says in the Quran chapter number 49 verse 13,

O humanity, we made you peoples and tribes so you may know one another.

The most honored are the most righteous.

Ramadan is month that teaches the word mercy, gratitude.

the prophet muhammad himself sallallahu alayhi wasallam peace be upon him said the most the

merciful are shown mercy by the most merciful meaning god ramadan is about love for others

what you love for ourselves even he said our prophet said none of you truly believes until

you love for others what you love for yourself that's why we invite you all everybody listening

watching, council members, to join us for our iftar dinners, open houses during Ramadan.

I'm representing downtown Denver Islamic Center.

We have Imam Ali here representing Masjid Taqwa.

We have other mosques in Denver.

We have four or five mosques within the city of Denver.

And we're inviting you to just knock in the door and show up.

We have open houses during the month of Ramadan in which we break our fast and also bond our humanity.

We are also inviting you to come and spend the Friday service every Friday.

At midday, we have our weekly service.

Or just show up for any of our five daily prayers.

We're also inviting you to join us and volunteer as well for packing food for the vulnerable in our city of Denver.

That we do it every month.

and see how Muslims are carried by their faith to service despite hatred and intimidation.

Thank you so much for this proclamation and for helping Denver City.

Clearly saying and stating Muslim families belong, Muslim children belong,

and Muslims are part of Denver.

And hate, no matter how loud it gets, will not have the final word in our city.

As-salamu alaykum. Peace be upon you. Thank you.

Thank you all.

We have two required public hearings tonight.

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

For those participating in person,

we only have five minutes.

well we usually have five minutes and that was a little bit more

if we need to we can okay

Dear city council members and neighbors,

my name is Yahya and I am proud to be here with my family tonight.

As a Muslim kid growing up in Denver, moments like this mattered to me.

When my city recognizes Ramadan and Eid,

It tells me who I am and what my family believes belong here too.

It makes me feel seen, respected, and included.

Ramadan teaches us to be patient, grateful, and to take care for others.

Values that make any city stronger, seeing those values honored this room gives me hope for the future I'm going up in.

Thank you for recognizing our community and for helping make Denver a place where every kid from every background feels like they truly belong.

We look forward to seeing you at our mosque to break fast during the month of Ramadan.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity.

Councilwoman Sandoval, and we'll note that for next time. Appreciate it.

Dear Council members and neighbors, Assalamu Alaikum, peace be upon you all.

I would like to thank Councilwoman Sarah Parity, Councilwoman

Jamie Torres, and Councilman Daryl Watson for bringing

this beautiful proclamation forward once again, and the

beautiful reading that you did of it. I stand before you this evening with

gratitude and hope. Tonight's reading of the Ramadan and Eighth Proclamation is more than a

page on your agenda. It is a living reminder that our city grows stronger when all of its people

are seen, heard, and honored. Over the past year, our Muslim community has continued to show up

for Denver in ways that make a measurable difference, running food distributions and

pantries that serve hundreds of households, opening their doors to neighbors of every faith

at interfaith meetings, and offering social services, counseling, and volunteer programs

that uplift our most vulnerable.

These are acts of care that quietly bind our neighbourhoods together

and demonstrate what community looks like in practice.

Recognition from this chamber affirms that those contributions

are part of Denver's story.

But this moment is also a call to deepen the partnerships we have begun.

Inclusion is not a one-time gesture.

It's the daily work of creating access to opportunity,

of listening across differences, and of ensuring our policies reflect the dignity of everyone who calls Denver home.

So tonight I ask that we carry this proclamation into action, expand civic engagement, collaborate on community-led services,

and make room at every table for the voices that so often carry the work of caring for others.

When we do this, Ramadan's lessons of compassion, generosity, and reflection ripple outward and strengthen every neighborhood.

Thank you to the Council for this recognition.

Thank you to the Houses of Worship, organizations, volunteers, and everyday neighbours who serve quietly and faithfully.

May we move forward together with renewed respect, with steady partnership,

and with the shared resolve to make Denver an even more inclusive place to live.

By doing so, we will never again look at any of our neighbours as the other,

and accept the victimization and oppression of them by our own government,

as in the case of ICE and the stripping of our civil rights,

or even in the case of having the courage to speak up and speak out

against the hate and oppression of all people around the world,

including in places like Sudan, and in particular for my people in Palestine,

who are being purposefully starved of food, water, and dignity during yet another Ramadan.

I would like to end by formally inviting all council members and community members of any background

to come and visit us on any day during the month of Ramadan,

to come and break fast with us, and to also celebrate Eid after the end of Ramadan.

Thank you, and I leave you and our brothers and sisters in the chambers with a tree of dates.

Known as a fruit of paradise, dates are mentioned in the Quran, Bible, and Torah.

They symbolize abundance, righteousness, hospitality, and peace.

They also happen to have a lot of electrolytes.

We use them to break our fast.

We will have them nightly in Ramadan upon breaking our fast.

We hope you will join us.

Thank you once again to our council members and to everybody here today.

As-salamu alaykum. Peace be upon you all.

We have two required public hearings tonight.

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

For those participating in 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 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 by remarks by telling 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 of council

speakers will have three minutes there is no yielding of time if translation is needed you

be given 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 osu obscene speech and refrain from individual or personal attack council members

council bill or did she ask you yeah okay perfect council member gonzalez cuteres will you please

put Council Bill 25-1704, an ordinance designating 1555 North Grand Street as a structure for

preservation on the floor for final passage.

Council President, I move that Council Bill 26-00, oh sorry, they have two different numbers

here.

I move that Council Bill 26-0056 be placed upon final consideration and do pass.

Madam Secretary, is that the right council bill number?

Because in the script we have 25-1704.

It's 0056.

Okay.

It has been moved.

And seconded.

The required public hearing for council bill 0056 is open.

May we please have the staff report?

Hey, good evening.

I am Abigail Christman, principal city planner with Landmark Preservation.

And here today to present a designation application for 1555 North Grant Street.

So, 5055 North Grant Street is located in Council District 10 in the North Capitol Hill neighborhood.

The property up for designation includes two contributing buildings.

There is a 1928 Lodge Hall, which you see there kind of to the rear of the photo.

And then there is also a 1963 Hall, which you see there in the front of the photo on the street.

And then there is also a parking lot, and that is non-contributing.

So we're working on, the goal is to preserve those two, the 1928 and the 1963 building.

The owner is the Knights of Columbus District 539, which owns the property,

and the applicants are Knights of Columbus along with Council President Sandoval and Council Member Hines.

So the red line shows the proposed boundary for the district.

So within that boundary, the 1928 building, the 1963 building, and then also the parking lot.

With the parking lot being part of the designation, it would come under the review of landmark preservation, but other uses, additional construction would be allowed there as long as they were compatible with landmark guidelines.

So in order to be eligible for landmark designation, property must maintain historical integrity, be more than 30 years old, are exceptionally significant,

meet at least three out of our 10 designation criteria,

and then our Landmark Preservation Commission

also considers the historic context for the property

when they review it and make their recommendation.

So 1555 North Grant Street is being proposed

to meet four out of the 10 criteria,

in this case for history,

with the Knights of Columbus

as being a recognized group of people

who had influence on society.

And then for the 1963 building, as having the visible characteristics of an architectural style,

being associated in a significant example of the work of a recognized architect,

and then also representing a significant technological innovation.

So this image is just to give you an idea of the evolution of this lot, which has changed quite a bit through time.

In the historic photo there, you see the Fleming Mansion, which was located on the lot in the 1890s.

And then off to the rear, in the side there of the Fleming Mansion with a turret,

you can see a little bit of what was originally the stables for the property.

And you can see that then on the map designated as 1897.

That's the Fleming Mansion in the front and then the stables at the rear.

After the Knights of Columbus purchased the building, they decided to remodel that stable and turn it into a lodge hall.

So what you see there in the 1929 is the property after that lot, the stables, had been remodeled into a lodge hall.

And then in the 1960s, they decided they needed a new modern lodge hall to accommodate their chapter.

and they decided to demolish the old Fleming Mansion.

So you see there then the lot as it is today with still that 1928 Lodge Hall

and then that new Lodge Hall constructed in 1963 at the bottom of the lot.

So the proposed areas of significance.

So first off, being proposed for significance as having a direct association

with a group of persons who had influence on society.

The Knights of Columbus, District 539.

And the District 539 served not just the local Catholic community,

but also had a lot of events here that served all of Denver.

There were a lot of conventions, meetings held here.

A lot of politicians gave speeches here, gave informational sessions.

You also had a lot of community groups meet here.

You know, the local Polish group and the Czech group and a lot of community gatherings occurred here.

So it was really a central location for community gathering located just on the edge of downtown.

And it has particular significance for the World War II period when the event hall became the Denver Center for the United Service Organization, the USO.

And so it's here in this hall that all the men and women in service who came through Denver were hosted in various events.

So really central location there, more than half a million servicemen and women came through here and attended events here.

And then you also had volunteers with the USO and the National Catholic Community Service Group, such as these Girl Scouts here that you see in this photo.

This is where they met together to do things like get cookies for soldiers, care packages for soldiers, and organize other service events.

And then after World War II, I really saw a boom in growth, certainly a huge population boom in Denver.

And with that, you also saw a big increase in interest in being part of fraternal orders.

And so part of that is why they needed the new space and the new 1963 hall.

So then moving on to the architectural significance and that 1963 building.

So it is being nominated as being a distinctive example of mid-century modern design with its flat roof, clean modern lines, and really lack of embellishment.

And then it is also being proposed for designation as a significant example of the work of John F. Milan.

He was a prominent Colorado architect designing more than 700 projects, kind of a lot of them,

the broader Denver Metro, as well as South and Trinidad and other places across the state,

and really had a huge range in the type of projects he did, single family, multifamily,

retail shopping centers, office buildings, schools, motels, and warehouses.

And in the Denver area, he did a lot with the Catholic Archdiocese.

He designed numerous churches and parish halls and then was the one selected to build this 1963 event hall, which was constructed of priest-stressed double-T concrete.

And I'll talk more about that in a moment, but part of this really innovative use of technology, and this is very representative of the work of John F. Milan, who throughout his architectural career was kind of particularly in this period really on the cutting edge of using new methods, new techniques, and really kind of incorporating modern technology.

and you see that then in the construction of this building which was constructed with pre-stressed

concrete double t framing members so this really represents a post-world war ii kind of development

of new technology there were a lot of still material shortages for years after the war

and a lot of people looking for you know replacement materials other things they could use

And also a big growth in the concrete industry with the interstate development after the war.

So while pre-stressed concrete double T framing is pretty ubiquitous today, it was really cutting edge when it was used here.

Often used in more industrial road settings, the first known use in a building was in 1961 in Florida.

So really, this was, you know, cutting edge here.

And it's very interesting the way it was used.

The fact that you see them right there on the outside of the building, it was kind of taking advantage of this new technique in a decorative almost way.

And it was used both for the floors, the ceilings, and the walls of the building, which was a really unique application.

So Landmark and the Landmark Preservation Commission has found that the property has good historical integrity.

There's been pretty minimal changes since 1928.

Obviously, there were a lot of changes when it went from being formerly a stables to the current lodge hall.

But since then, really only there's a placement of the windows with glass block, but not other significant changes.

And the 1963 building is very intact, but the only significant alteration being a new simple porch at the entrance.

So the historic context of the property really includes the history and the role of the Knights of Columbus and the Denver community, and then the way that this property has evolved over time and the way it's been a key neighborhood resource.

So it's often kind of the starting or ending point for Catholic parades in the neighborhood and really kind of a key location, key reminder of the role of the Knights of Columbus in this neighborhood.

So the period of significance that is being proposed goes from 1928, when the old stables was expanded and converted into a new hall, and then is being extended to 1982, which was when the Knights of Columbus celebrated here with a big parade for their 100th anniversary.

So this period kind of really covers the most active time of use, and that kind of extends over that cultural period that saw a lot of changes here.

So we have received one letter of support, which was from historic Denver.

We have not received any public comment in opposition.

So to wrap up, the property has been found by Landmark Preservation Commission to meet four criteria, being direct association with the Knights of Columbus, architectural style, significant work of John Myland, and then being technological innovation.

innovation. It retains integrity and the Landmark Preservation Commission has is recommending approval to Council of the application.

For the presentation we have one individual signed up to speak this evening. First up we have Jesse Paris.

Yes, good evening, members of council, those watching at home.

My name is Jessica Sean Parrish.

I'm representing for Black Star Action Movement for Self-Defense, Positive Action Committee for Social Change,

as well as the Unity Party of Colorado, the Northeast Denver Residence Council, Frontline Black News,

Chewbacca's Black Experience Enhance, the Revolutionary Agenda.

and I reside at the roach bed bug infested legacy lofts

in Tudermere and Watson's district of District 9,

the historically black district of five points.

And for this preservation tonight,

I just don't recall ever having a gathering here

and I'm a native of 30 plus years.

What's going on with that?

I say it's a lot of racism involved with that,

But as far as your criteria, it means it.

So I am a supporter of it.

I need to preserve Denver history,

but we need to tell the truth about Denver history as well

because there's several spots in the city and the state

where Black people were not allowed for decades, if not centuries.

so we can now move side of that as well.

But apparently that's not part of your criteria.

So it's part of Denver history

that doesn't get written or talked about

because they like to make it seem

like it's not a Ku Klux Klan state.

That's all I have for you tonight.

Thank you.

That concludes our speakers.

Do we have any questions from members of council

on Council Bill 260056.

Seeing no other questions from members of Council,

the public hearing is closed.

Comments by members of Council.

Council Member Hines, are you still online with us?

Do you want to start since this is in your Council District?

Yes, ma'am. Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. I want to thank you for the presentation we just heard, which I believe clearly laid out what is being designated and why 1555 North Grand Street matters, both historically and architecturally.

I speak today simply to underscore my strong support for this landmark designation and to ask for your support as well.

This site, the Knights of Columbus Hall, sits in the heart of North Capitol Hill in my district and has played a meaningful role in Denver civic and community life for generations.

On a personal note, I want to share that I actually used to live just a few blocks from these buildings.

I guess I live about eight blocks from the buildings now, but lived even closer then.

And like so many people who called Central Denver home, I would pass them multiple times a day, rolling on my way to the Capitol, downtown meetings, or other places in our center city.

It's one of those places that becomes part of the everyday fabric of a neighborhood.

You may not always stop and think about it, but it's always there, quietly anchoring the community.

As we've heard, this property reflects an extraordinary legacy of service.

During World War II, it served as an official USO and National Catholic Community Service site, welcoming more than half a million members of the armed forces.

architecturally, it also tells an important story about Denver's built environment. From the earlier

whole, the innovative 1963 mid-century modern structure designed by John F. Milan, with its

unique use of pre-stressed double-T concrete construction, as mentioned before in the staff

report, supplies were tight after the war, and so with that tight supply chain came innovation.

So importantly, I also want to say this designation has been thoughtfully refined.

The parking lot is now considered non-contributing, allowing flexibility for

compatible future development while still preserving the historic halls themselves.

After all, I'm not sure that a bit of pavement on the ground is worth commemorating into the history books.

So I'm really glad that there was that thoughtful refinement.

The Landmark Preservation Commission voted unanimously twice to forward this designation,

recognizing that the site meets Denver's criteria for historic and cultural significance.

significance. Colleagues, places like this help tell Denver's story, not just through architecture,

but through community, service, and continuity. 1955 North Grant has been part of Capitol Hill's

identity for nearly a century. Today, more than a century, well, nearly a century later,

we have, for the older building, we have the opportunity to ensure it remains part of Denver's

future. I want to thank the Knights of Columbus for identifying the parking lot as nonconforming.

And finally, I want to thank Council President Sandoval. Thank you so much for your leadership

and for your willingness to co-sponsor this with me. I respectfully ask for your support

and affirmative vote. Thank you. Thank you. Councilmember Abbey, there is.

Thank you, Council President. Thank you, Councilman Hines, for your thoughts. And thank you to the

people that brought this forward. I think it was a great learning experience for me to learn about

why not only is it important as a landmark as something so important to the community, but that

a lot of people are struggling to pay property taxes and it has a benefit. I actually just emailed

Council of Entours because someone from the Polish club in your district nearby

reached out to me and I mentioned that I learned that from this rezoning. I don't know if it's an

option for them, but it's also a good learning experience about something like a parking lot.

How do we consider that? How do we talk about that? And thank you, Council President, for your

leadership and helping figure that out, because I didn't want to see this not get historically

designated because of that one thing, but I think you did the right thing, and it was a great

learning experience, so thanks for leading in that way. Thank you. Councilwoman Torres? Thank you so much.

Yeah, this was such an interesting discussion in committee when it came through.

And I just want to thank the applicant group, all of you who are so committed to making sure that this could come through in a way where we were able to satisfy the questions that we had about the property and still meet the intent of preservation that you were looking for.

And just really thank Council President Sandoval in leading that.

This is not your district, but I think this was definitely something that you could lend your expertise to.

So a really perfect storm.

So thank you all, and I look forward to voting yes on it.

Thank you.

Council Member Cashman?

No, ma'am.

I'm next time.

Okay.

Just want to say thank you all for the work on this.

Thank you to the Knights of Columbus.

It was a collaborative process right after committee.

I think I reached out to you all to try to figure out a path forward.

And if you weren't here at 3.30, we just gave a proclamation to the city assessor who you had been working with, who you were worried about the process.

And he just retired.

He just left the city.

And so in my comments to him, I thanked him because that was the first phone call that I made when I asked if this application, if I could take over this application and help you move forward because I understood the need that you all have.

as I see a lot of these, a lot of the churches in Northwest Denver are having people leave them,

and a lot of times they either can be historically designated, qualified for historic designation,

and yet they are on really expensive land.

And so how do you meet both? How do you do both?

How do you represent your community and your organization,

and how do you pay your property taxes

and make sure that we're not leaving a part of history out.

I want to thank Landmark Commission.

Thank you, LPC, for being able to work with me,

and thank you for working with my office.

And just want to give a shout-out for my staff, Melissa.

Melissa was the one who was really the go-between,

who helped rewrite the application,

who helped get everybody on the same page.

And to be honest with you, none of us could do any of this

without all our council aides who we don't even thank enough all the time.

They're the ones who are behind the scenes making the phone calls,

making sure that all the T's are crossed, all the I's are dotted.

Melissa, I know you're watching. I really thank you.

This is a love of mine of land use,

and so I just want to say thank you for helping me get this to fruition

because as it was noted, it's not in my council district,

but I was not going to let a treasurer like this go by on out of my watch.

So with that, I ask all my colleagues to make sure that I would ask, not make sure,

I would ask for your support in voting this forward.

Madam Secretary, roll call.

Council Member Hines.

Aye.

Alvarez.

Aye.

Flynn.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Cashman.

Aye.

Lewis? Aye.

Parity? Aye.

Romero-Campbell? Aye.

Torres? Aye.

Watson? Aye.

Madam President Sandoval? Aye.

Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.

11 ayes.

11 ayes.

Council Bill 0056 has passed.

Council Member Torres, will you please put Council Bill 25-21-47, a bill for an ordinance

changing the zoning classification for 3050 Richard Allen Court in Skyland on the floor

for final passage?

Yes, Madam President.

I move that Council Bill 25-21-47 be placed upon final consideration and do pass.

It has been moved and seconded.

The required public hearing for Council Bill 2147 is open.

May we please have the staff report?

Thank you so much, Edson.

Thank you so much, Council President.

Colleagues, I am honored to be the legislative sponsor for rezoning for 3050 North Richard Allen Court in Skyland neighborhood.

I want to give a little bit of background before I turn it over to Edson Ibanez to really walk us through kind of the why and why that we're bringing this forward.

This site is home to Cross Purpose, a longstanding Denver nonprofit that helps neighbors build career, stability, and hope.

This property is currently zoned R2A under former Chapter 59.

That zoning does not allow for medical office uses.

Cross Purpose holds a state behavioral health license.

State law requires that licensed services operate in a zone that permits those uses.

This rezoning fixes a mismatch between zoning and reality,

and most importantly, allows Cross Purpose to continue providing the same support services that it has been providing for many, many years.

Cross Purpose met directly with the Skyland Neighborhood Association and received a letter of support.

Cross Purpose went door to door in Skyland and found neighbors were not only supportive of the rezoning, but also wanted to volunteer at Cross Purpose.

With that, I'll turn it over to Edson Ibanez.

I encourage my colleagues respectfully to support me in voting yes on this unnecessary rezoning.

Edson.

Thank you, Councilmember Watson.

My name is Edson Ibanez.

I am with CPD today, Community Planning and Development.

And before you today, we have 3050 North Richard Allen Court.

Like the Council Member Watson said,

this is a former Chapter 59 zone district.

And we're going into the Denver zoning code

to a zone district, EMX2X, which is a mixed use,

up to two stories with limited commercial.

So with this presentation, I'll look at the request.

We'll look at the location and context.

We'll dive into the process and wrap up with the review criteria

for this rezoning. So the subject site is highlighted in red here kind of in the center

of the map. The site itself is just over 67,000 square feet, so about approximately 1.5 acres,

and it's currently housed by Cross Purpose. And like the council member mentioned, Cross Purpose

is a nonprofit organization working to end relational, economic, and spiritual poverty

through career and community development.

And then the main reason for this rezoning is that cross-purpose holds a state license

for behavioral health services, and this rezoning is necessary to maintain compliance

with state licensing requirements.

And so, like I mentioned, that EMX2X is an urban edge mixed use up to two stories,

and then that X at the end is for limited commercial.

And more specifically, that X is for to allow uses that are more in neighborhoods,

embedded in neighborhoods.

And so with that, you know, looking at the location and context, it's located in Council District 9, Councilmember Watson District.

And as you can see, it's more on the outer edges of the Skyland neighborhood.

They're close to Colorado and Martin Luther.

So just to give some reference here, the current zoning is R2A.

R2A is a former Chapter 59 multi-unit dwelling medium density zone district.

but it does have a waiver.

And so that waiver was adopted back in 1989.

It limits the height from 110 feet down to 35 feet,

but more importantly, it allows for more expanded uses other than multifamily.

It allows for community center, residents for the elderly care, educational facility,

but it doesn't allow for medical office.

And so those waivers are attached to the staff report.

But as you can see, directly to the west of the site, it's predominantly single-family.

That zoning is ESUDX.

And then we have some open space in close proximity to the site.

And then, you know, we do have that church in a multifamily apartment complex as well.

So the land use, it's classified as public, quasi-public.

And then to the north, we have a church designated that.

To the east, we have a multi-unit residential.

That's three stories.

And then to the west, we see a lot of single family there.

And then we have park in green.

And then to the south as well, we have a school.

So just kind of give some context here.

So the subject site is highlighted on the top right photo here.

It's a one-story structure, which is a cross-purpose facility here.

To the east of the site, directly adjacent to the site there, is a three-story multi-family residence.

And then to the north, we see the church directly to the north.

And then across the street, we see single-family residents that are about one to two stories in height.

So let's jump into the process.

So an informational notice was sent out in November of last year.

It went before the planning board, and it was approved unanimously.

And it is before you tonight.

And part of that process, we did notify all the RNOs.

We did receive one letter of support from the Skyline Neighborhood Association, and we received eight letters of support, two from organizations such as the Paul Birkin Photography and Edgewood Works.

And then once one of those specific letters of support had 21 signatures in support, all of the letters highlighted that this rezoning would allow for the continual use of the cross-purpose nonprofit.

And it would help them just to stay aligned with kind of the state requirement, licensing requirements.

and it's consistent with the criteria and allow them for uses that would be complementary to the neighborhood,

but also allow them to kind of maintain the uses that are operating now.

Additionally, there was one letter that was sent over the weekend that y'all shall have now,

which is a letter that shows 100 testimonies of graduates that have gone through the program,

just kind of highlighting individuals of how they benefited going through this program.

And that's attached to this as well.

So with that, we'll jump into the review criteria.

So the Denver Zoning Code highlights three review criteria that every rezoning has to follow,

which is consistency with adopted plans, public interest,

and consistency with neighborhood context, zone district, purpose, and intent statements.

So the first one, consistency with adopted plans.

So this specific rezoning really just has two plans that we're focusing on, which is Comprehensive Plan 2040 and Blueprint in Denver of 2019.

So this rezoning is, you know, the staff report highlights multiple strategies that this rezoning aligns with, but I just want to highlight a few under equity and climate goals,

such as under equitable, affordable, and inclusive Goal 1 strategy C,

improve equitable access to resources that improve quality of life,

culture and natural amenities, health care, education,

as well as strong and authentic Neighborhood Goal 1 strategy

to ensure neighborhoods offer a mix of housing types and services

for a diverse population.

And then equity goals, environmentally resilient Goal A,

promote infill development where infrastructure and services

are already in place.

When we jump into Blueprint Denver,

Blueprint Denver classifies this area as urban edge, neighborhood context, which are residential areas generally where single unit and two unit uses with some low scale multi-unit embedded throughout.

And then multi-unit buildings and commercial nodes are generally low scale.

When we look at the place type, it's classified as low residential where, you know, it's predominantly single unit and two unit uses, which is what you see a lot in the neighborhood.

But limited mixed use can occur along arterial and collector streets, as well as where commercial use have already been established.

So the uniqueness of this site is that it was never residential.

It was zoned for multifamily, and it's been used for multiple different uses.

Building heights for place type is up to 2.5 stories in height.

And then the street type, we have Martin Luther King Jr. and Colorado are both residential collectors return.

close proximity to this specific site. As you can see here on the picture, as well as Richard Allen

is a local street there. In terms of growth area strategies classified as all other areas of the

city where we anticipate 20% of new housing growth and 10% of new employment growth by 2040.

Additionally, this type of rezoning also has a few goals that are found in blueprints such as

The land use and bill form economy goal six support locally owned businesses new and old to expand and evolve to meet the changing needs of residents and visitors.

Additionally, you know, Blueprint does call that we should rezone properties out of former Chapter 59, which is this case specifically into the Denver zoning code.

And this would also allow them to maintain their compliance with state licensing requirements.

in terms of climate it would help reduce climate impacts because multi-unit mixed-use buildings are

more energy efficient to low density residential development types it's consistent with the public

interest criteria as it's consisted with strategies and goals found in blueprint denver

as well as comp plan that that talks about promoting services and additionally it's

consistent with the neighborhood context zone district purpose and intent statements as

highlighted in the staff report. Therefore, that CPT recommends approval that based on all the

review cuts you have been met. I'm open for any questions. Thank you very much.

Great presentation. We have, let's see,

We have six individuals signed up to speak this evening.

First up, we have Bob Schofield.

Good evening.

My name is Bob Schofield.

I'm the vice president of campus operations at Cross Purpose.

We are requesting a rezone from R2 to EMX2 because the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration

now requires counseling services to occur in a district that explicitly permits medical office use.

R2 does not include that definition.

EMX2 does.

This request does not change our operation.

It allows what is already existing to remain compliant.

Cross-Purpose provides tuition-free career training for adults working to move out of poverty into stability in fields and trades like health care and professional careers.

Over time, we've learned that training alone isn't enough.

Many participants are navigating recovery, trauma, housing instability, justice involvement, while trying to rebuild their lives.

Counseling is part of the program because it allows participants to stay consistent long enough to complete training and keep employment.

The state now categorizes those scheduled counseling sessions as a medical office use, which is why the zoning alignment is required.

We also want to address neighborhood impact.

We work directly with the Skyland Neighborhood Association and receive their support.

We canvass surrounding neighbors and receive no objections, only encouragement.

and a few new volunteers.

Residents submitted letters of support

and council has received testimonies from graduates

whose outcomes came directly from this program.

You may hear the term medical office and picture a clinic.

That's not what occurs here.

There are no procedures, no walk-ins,

and no public patients.

There are scheduled conversations for enrolled participants

during existing program hours inside a building

that already operates as a training center.

We are not expanding enrollment, we are not extending hours, we are not increasing traffic.

Nothing about the day-to-day experience of this property changes.

The Behavioral Health Administration has granted temporary authorization while zoning is corrected,

but the authorization expires on the 17th.

Without approval, counseling services must pause to remain compliant.

This is simply correcting a technical mismatch so an existing program can continue to operate as designated.

Tonight's decision determines whether the program remains whole or loses a required component while everything else stays the same.

Thank you for your time.

Thank you to Councilman Watson's office and all those who have been in great favor of this effort.

Thank you so much.

Next up we have Jason Jad.

Jans?

Jans?

Yes, thank you, Council.

Jason Jans, CEO and founder of Cross Purpose.

I want to thank Councilman Wattsman for helping us get this all the way through.

And we serve many families and neighbors in District 9, but also District 8 as well with Councilwoman Lewis.

And so we appreciate your consideration.

Cross Purpose was born in Northeast Denver.

You've already heard about our mission.

We've had 1,650 graduates now with career-level jobs.

Over 50 of them have bought homes because we don't want to just get them to a career-level job.

We want them to build generational wealth.

We rented at the Clayton campus from 2012 to 2019, at which time we were given the opportunity to rent this building from a foundation.

So we started renting from them in 2019 and did a renovation of it.

and in 2023 we were able to purchase the building from the foundation

and we just were able to pay it all off last month so it's now ours so we're happy about that

so we plan on being there for a while and over the last three years we've now formed this

state certified mental health service to help our families with holistic care so it's a very vital

part of what we do to make sure that we're serving the whole person and serving them well so we'd

appreciate your attention and approval in this matter.

Thank you. Next up, we have Jesse

Paris.

Finally.

Good evening, members of council, those watching at home,

those in the council chambers.

My name is Jesse LaShawn Paris, and I'm

representative for Black Star Action Movement for Self-Defense,

Positive Action Movement for Social Change, as well as the

Unity Party of Colorado, the Northeast

General Residence Council, Frontline Black News,

Chewbacca's Bucket Spence Enhance, and I reside at the Roach and Bedbug Infested Legacy Lofts

in Tudermann-Wassens District of District 9. I am in full support of this rezoning change tonight.

As a matter of fact, my first job was actually a block south of here at Barrett Elementary

at the age of 13.

I was a janitor then.

I support the businesses that have

set up shopping here as well.

This is an asset to our community

and much needed.

So yeah, I'm in full support of this tonight.

We've got this Watson.

Thank you, Jesse.

Next up we have Jamie Horsfall.

Hi, my name is Jamie Horsfall.

I'm the clinical director at Cross Purpose, and I oversee the program that we spoke, that

Bob spoke about, that will be impacted with this rezoning if it were not passed.

So a little bit of impact in my world.

Over the past year, nearly 300 residents have participated in counseling and recovery coaching through Cross Purpose.

We have delivered 1,400 sessions of counseling, which translates to roughly $218,000 provided at no cost to folks that often lack insurance for behavioral health care.

Nearly 680 coaching sessions have supported individuals in recovery, and nearly 1,800 residents have attended our Live Different Friday night community gatherings.

We know that poverty compounds trauma, stress, and risk for mental health challenges like PTSD and depression.

Increasing access to mental health services isn't just compassionate and the right thing to do, it lowers the social cost for a community.

Investing in these services strengthens families, reduces strain on public resources, and helps make our neighborhoods healthier. Thank you.

Next up, we have Jeremy Baumeister.

Okay.

Good evening. I appreciate the opportunity to speak in favor of this important building rezoning.

The importance of cross-purposes cannot be overstated.

Offering cost-free personal development training and education, they are doing the hard work of lifting people out of generational poverty.

I, along with about 70 others, started the program in July.

After six weeks of personal and professional development work, we started on individual skill tracks, of which cross-purpose offers dozens.

I graduated this past December.

I completed the IT Support Skill Track, an intensive three-month course preparing me for an entry-level IT support job.

Without cross-purpose, there is no way I could have afforded the three CompTIA A-plus exams, much less the rather expensive TechWorks course.

Along with the technical education and training, we received instruction in resume creation, interview preparation, and professionalism.

Since graduating, I've been actively interviewing and pursuing opportunities, and many of my classmates were hired at full-time jobs shortly after completing their track.

Along with the job training, cross-purpose offers a sense of community.

I'm a recent transplant to the Denver area and didn't know a lot of people.

Over the past, I don't know, nine months, I've developed friendships that will in all likelihood last a lifetime.

Thank you.

Thank you.

Seeing no other speakers, do we have questions from members of Council on Council Bill 25, 21, 47?

Seeing none, the public hearing is closed.

comments by members of council on council bill 25 20 yeah just one brief comment

I think Reverend Jantz shared it I think the the power of cross-purpose is that

it is really built from community started on the east side began very small and

grew as community needs were identified and as Reverend Jantz also stated the

folks that they support and that they help it goes beyond simply given a class

providing counseling support it's holistic they help folks with the skill

set the gentleman spoke they also provide ongoing work for support as well

as housing I mean it is a comprehensive one-stop shop in our community that is

trusted by the neighbors in Skyland and the neighbors on the east side and so I

I appreciate all of the work that you and your family and Bob and everyone else that you do at Cross Purpose.

And this glitch of technicality between the state requirement for medical office is the only reason the zoning is rezoning is coming through.

And once again, I respectfully ask my council members for their support.

Awesome. Thank you.

Councilwoman Gonzalez-Cutierrez.

Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you, Councilman Watson and everyone who made this all happen and getting us in line with what we need to be with the state.

I will just say I really appreciate the work that Cross Purpose has done for many years.

I'm very familiar from my previous work many, many years ago and going to the Clayton campus.

So when you were on the other side and learning about the work and I worked with youth and families,

oftentimes youth in the justice field.

And I just recall being able to utilize your resources for the parents, right,

who were trying to find gainful employment and being able to, you know,

go through the program and everything like that.

So I really appreciate the work that you're doing.

I'm glad that this has come through and that we're able to do this tonight

and appreciate everybody's work.

Thank you, Madam President.

Seeing no other colleagues in the queue, Madam Secretary, roll call on Council Bill 2147.

Council Member Hines.

Aye.

Alvarez.

Aye.

Flynn.

Aye.

Gonzalez Gutierrez.

Aye.

Cashman.

Aye.

Lewis.

Aye.

Parody.

Aye.

Romero Campbell.

Aye.

Torres.

Aye.

Watson.

Aye.

Madam President Sandoval? Aye. Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.

11 ayes. 11 ayes. Council Bill 25-2147 has passed.

On Monday, March 9, 2026, Council will hold a required public hearing on Council Bill 26-0026,

changing the zoning classification for 4631 North Josephine Street in Elyria Swansea.

Any protest against Council Bill 260062 must be filed with the Council Office no later than noon on Monday, March 2, 2026.

There being no further business before this meeting is adjourned.

Thank you.