Denver City Council Regular Meeting - June 15, 2026
Hey Denver, it's time for the weekly general session of your Denver City Council.
Tonight's coverage of Denver City Council starts now.
Tonight's meeting is being interpreted in Spanish.
Sam or Jasmine, would you please introduce yourself and let our viewers know how to enable translation on their devices?
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Thank you for having us.
Hello, everyone.
My name is Sam Guzmán.
Joining you virtually through Zoom.
And along with my colleague Jasmine, we will be interpreting today's meeting into Spanish.
Please allow me a quick minute while I give instructions in Spanish on how to access interpretation.
Muchas gracias, and thank you very much.
Thank you very much.
Good afternoon, and welcome to the Denver City Council meeting of Monday, June 15th, 2026.
My name is Alyssa Ferrera.
I am your council secretary.
First, we have the Pledge of Allegiance, land acknowledgement, and establishment of quorum to attend to before the floor is opened up for nominations.
Council members, please join Council Member Flynn in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Council members, please join Council Member Flynn as they lead us in 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 Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho peoples.
We also recognize that government, academic, and cultural institutions were founded upon and continue to enact exclusions and erasures of indigenous peoples.
May this acknowledgement demonstrate a commitment to working to dismantle ongoing legacies of oppression and inequities, and recognize the current and future contributions of indigenous communities in Denver.
Roll call.
Alvidus.
Gonzalez Cutieris.
Here.
Heinz?
Here.
Lewis.
Present.
Romero Campbell.
Sawyer.
Here.
Torres.
Watson.
Here.
Ten members present.
Council has a quorum.
The floor is now open for nominations.
Council Member Sawyer.
I nominate Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez to serve as acting President Pro Tem.
Madam Secretary, we need it up on our screens.
Yeah, sorry.
No technical difficulty.
Yep, you're all good.
It has been moved and seconded.
Roll call.
Council members Gilmore.
Aye.
Parody.
Aye.
Alvides.
Hi.
Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Hi.
Heinz?
Hi.
Cashman.
Hi.
Lewis.
Aye.
Sawyer.
Aye.
Watson.
Aye.
Ten ayes.
Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez will not preside.
All right.
Well, welcome everyone.
We will start with order of business approval of the minutes.
Are there any corrections to the minutes of June 8th?
All right.
Seeing none, the minutes stand approved.
Council announcements.
Are there any announcements from members of council?
Thank you.
Okay.
Councilman Heinz.
I don't know what to address you as.
Just Councilmember.
Okay.
Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Thank you.
First of all, welcome to the new Denver City Council Chambers.
I'm so excited to be back in our uh in our new haunt, which is similar to our old haunt, but uh quite a bit shinier and uh and spiffier.
I'm also glad that we have new name tags.
We weren't sure if we were gonna get the new name tags today, and they I think came today.
Um the uh the other thing that I wanted to mention is two weeks ago, I uh mentioned in announcements uh that uh we have vision zero here in Denver, and uh and it is continuing to have a worrying trend.
At the time, I neglected to mention that we had 25 vision zero statistics so far in 2026.
Two weeks later, we've added three more.
So we now have 28 traffic deaths in Denver so far in 2026.
Um 93 traffic deaths uh in 2025 uh was the number that we had, and um and I'm sure hoping that uh we are gonna make good on Dotti's commitment to reduce uh traffic fatalities uh vision zero statistics by 50 percent by the end of the year.
I'm very concerned that we're not gonna make it, and that's why I continue to talk about this in announcements.
Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Thank you, Councilman uh Councilwoman Sawyer.
Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Um I just wanted to welcome everyone back to our chambers, and I want to first of all say how absolutely beautiful it is.
It's also a little weird to be sitting up here and getting back into learning about our new desks and things like that.
So if things are a little bit in fits and starts today, please give us some grace.
Um I just want to acknowledge all of the different people within and outside of our city who have done an extraordinary job and managed to pull this off for getting back in here today.
Um I want to thank the mayor's office for allowing us to use Par Widener.
It was not ideal, but it uh worked for us for a short period of time.
And um, you know, the Dottie team, the tech services team did an incredible job of um all of the things that need to happen.
I would be very remiss if I did not specifically acknowledge um Bonita Rosnos and the central staff team who um really spearheaded all of this work.
So great job.
You guys are amazing.
Thank you.
I know that both Council President Sandoval and Council Pro Tem Romero Campbell, if they were here would say the same thing.
So I just didn't want to um let this moment go without acknowledging all of you and the work that you guys have done to get us back into chambers and to provide a space that works and welcomes everyone.
So great job, and thank you so much.
Thanks.
Great, thank you.
Councilwoman Alviderez.
Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Um I just wanted to say thank you to the Bike Fest people.
I had such a great time at Bike Fest this past weekend.
That was a lot of fun.
And also announced that this uh that the South Broadway General Improvement District will be launching, and we're throwing a party to celebrate.
So stop by this Thursday, June 18th at 4 p.m.
at the JID office.
Yes, the JIT actually has an office now, 25th West Third, 25th West Third Avenue is the address.
Come by.
There'll be music, fun, and we'll even watch the South Broadway film.
We're asking attendees to bring non-perishable food items to support our summer food drive for our local food pantry community ministries.
So head over to the District 7, Denver's Lucky District 7 story to find out exactly what we're uh trying to gather for community and to find out more about our fun event.
So we're excited to launch the JID.
This is really a new beginning for South Broadway where we're able to reinvest because the businesses and neighbors along South Broadway have decided to invest their extra taxpayer dollars into the district, which is going to provide a wide array of exciting things like the Broadway Halloween parade, and we're even working on some holiday events for the winter.
So please stay tuned and check out South Broadway.
Thank you.
Thank you so much.
Councilman Watson.
Uh thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
I'm going to embarrass uh really intelligent um young man that is here for the first time.
Jordaniel McPeters, do you mind standing for a second?
I want all y'all to see his face.
He's gonna be sitting up here somewhere else soon.
He is intern in the District 9 office for the next six weeks.
Uh Jordaniel McPeters is a manual thunderbolt, go T Bowls.
I know you'll like it.
I know you like it.
Um he's a ninth grader going into the tenth grade.
I'll share a little bit about his background.
He's an avid reader and writer.
He just has a very small 1500-page um screenplay that he has begun, begun to write.
I just think you are going to be phenomenal.
I can't wait to see how much I learned from you.
Thank you so much uh for participating in an internship program.
And if any school um leaders are considering um internships at Denver City Council, reach out to us.
We will love to learn from you and elevate you and your skills um within the city.
So thank you and welcome uh to Denver City Council.
I have uh one announcement.
Uh this Saturday we are kicking off, or the um Norman Harris and team are kicking off Juneteenth uh this Saturday in the historic five points starting at 9 a.m.
Get to Manual High School's parking lot early because you know it gets uh traffic jam up there lining up to come down 26, which is right by my house.
So come on down at around 9 a.m.
or earlier for Juneteenth, learning more about our community, our celebrations, our businesses, and then celebrating um really to kick off a summer for our community.
So this Saturday, uh the June 20th from 9 to 12 p.m.
is the Juneteenth parade going down 26th Avenue.
Thank you, Councilmember Gazas Guterres.
Thank you, Councilman Watson.
Councilwoman Lewis.
Thank you, Councilmember.
Um I wanted to thank the Denver Human Rights and Community Partnerships, as well as the Denver LGBTQ Commission for their invitation of myself, Councilman Watson, Councilman Hines, and the mayors to be able to speak um at their 2026 Pride in the City event.
It was a fantastic time.
Um it's Pride, of course, it's a fantastic time.
We're fabulous.
Um, in addition to that, I also wanted to thank the organizers of Black Pride and their invitation to the cookout this weekend.
I had an amazing time celebrating Black Pride with folks, so happy pride.
We're queer and we're here.
Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman Lewis.
Not seeing anyone else in the queue for announcements.
I'll make a few announcements to myself.
Uh, myself with councilwoman Lewis and Councilwoman Parody will be hosting a virtual uh community session with regard to the municipal sentencing uh bill that will be coming uh back to council or to the full body.
Uh we will be hosting that next Wednesday evening, uh the 24th of June at 4 30 p.m.
And welcome uh folks to attend.
It will be virtual and we will have information posted uh and how to access that.
Um, secondly, I I think everybody's probably sitting here scratching their heads if they come to these council meetings and wondering why why is our one of our at-large members sitting up here.
Uh as you heard at the beginning of this meeting, um, with both of our our council president and our council pro tem uh Romero Campbell being out.
Um, I get the honor of being able to preside over tonight's meeting.
Uh and so I will do my best uh at this in this role and appreciate um, you know, any any of your grace uh as we navigate this and being in this beautiful uh chamber, and I am thankful for Councilwoman Sawyer for um recognizing the folks um that put so much work and effort into this.
Uh I also you know want to thank Councilman Heinz for lending your expertise as well in making sure that we have the um the ex accessibility in this chamber, um, all the way up to this desk, right?
And so thank you so much.
And and everyone that has put in so much effort and work to this, um, including council president, who I know has spent hours and hours, and I think it started even before Council President Sandoval, um, all of this work.
So, everyone that has had some kind of uh touch on the plans, thank you so much for everything that you have done.
With that said, we will move on.
There are no presentations, there are no communications.
There are two proclamations being read this afternoon.
Councilwom Council members Sawyer and Watson, would you please read proclamation 260834?
Proclamation 26-0834, celebrating the Colfax Mayfair bids long-standing businesses.
Whereas, after 30 plus years, these Colfax Mayfair businesses remain essential to the community as locally owned, often family-operated favorites and trusted service providers, now navigating Colfax's transformation into a safer, more welcoming main street that is easier for everyone to get around.
And whereas all-time clock repair, celebrating 52 years in business, is a family-owned and operated master timekeeper who helps keep everyone on schedule.
And whereas City Floral Garden Center, celebrating a hundred and fifteen years in business, is Denver's oldest and largest plant haven serving green and brown thumbs.
And whereas Denver True Value celebrating 34 years in business is a family-owned and operated hardware central that stocks at all the essentials, and whereas Edmore Flores celebrating 78 years in business provides flesh fresh flowers and original arraignments, arrangements to Brighton every day, and whereas MX Auto Repair celebrating 61 years in business is trusted by multiple generations of drivers through this family-owned and operated shop.
And whereas La Vista Motel celebrating 70 years in business is an original Colfax Motor Motor Court transformed into a boutique hotel.
And whereas Mayfair Cleaners celebrating 30 years in business offers friendly, oh so thorough neighborhood laundry.
Whereas Mozart's Denver celebrating 71 years in business is a welcoming neighborhood bar and lounge with signature cocktails and live music.
And whereas mixed up creations celebrating 34 years in business is a Colfax original head shop and designated Denver legacy business.
And whereas Park Hill family dental celebrating 38 years in business is creating beautiful smiles for patients of all ages, and whereas R lounge, celebrating 51 years in business, is Denver's oldest gay bar with a relaxed atmosphere, and whereas suburban toppers celebrating 41 years in business is a family-owned resource for truck toppers and accessories, and whereas winning coffeeers.
Did I say that right?
Yes.
Celebrating 47 years in business is a beloved full service family-owned salon.
That is in Denver's legacy business.
Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council, Section One, that Denver City Council hereby recognizes and celebrates these businesses and the role they have played in shaping identity, culture, and economic vitality of East Colfax Avenue, and wishes them continued success as the corridor enters a new era of transformation and opportunity and section two that the clerk and record of the city and county of Denver shall affix a seal of the city and county of Denver to this proclamation and that a copy be transmitted to the Colfax Mayfair businesses.
Councilmember Sawyer, your motion to adopt.
I move that proclamation 26-0834 be adopted.
It has been moved.
And so it was and it's been seconded.
Comments by members of council.
We'll start with Councilwoman Sawyer.
Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
I'm so proud to be uh giving this proclamation to these incredible neighborhood businesses, every single one of them has been in business for well over 30 years.
Um Hilary Portel, the executive director of the Colfax Mayfair Bid is amazing.
Yes.
Um she is an advocate for every single business in the Colfax Mayfair Bid District and along Colfax in general.
Um for decades, these businesses have been more than storefronts, they are gathering places, neighborhood anchors, trusted institutions, and places where our community creates community.
So whether it's getting a clock repaired, um picking up flowers, which I'm really sorry, but I just have this I am the one with the black thumb that kills everything I touch.
I'm sorry I am.
Um fixing your car, sharing a drink with friends, all of these different things are businesses that are a part of everyday life and life's moments every day in Colfax and Mayfair for generations and generations, 115 years in City Floral's case.
So, in an era where we know that small businesses are facing increasing challenges, reaching 30, 50, 100 years in operation is extraordinary.
It is an achievement worthy of recognition and celebration.
Um, especially during this time, where Colfax is evolving.
The bus rapid transit, um construction is underway, and although the death of Colfax has been much overstated, there have been challenges to our businesses.
Um, and so it is really important to Councilmember, I'm gonna talk for you, Watson.
Do it.
Really important to Councilmember Watson and I, um, that we honor these businesses, the ones that help build the corridor into the vibrant and extraordinary Colfax Corridor that we have today.
Construction is temporary, but the local businesses that define the character of Colfax deserve our support, and they are hopefully forever.
Um, so I just want to take this opportunity to say thank you to all of the business owners who are here to Hillary, who is the tip of that spear in an extraordinary way, and to say we recognize you, we appreciate you, we know that it is not easy to own a small business and be a small business owner in Denver at this time, and we're just grateful for you.
And thanks for letting us acknowledge you like this.
We really appreciate it.
Councilman Watson.
Uh, thank you.
Uh, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez, and thank you so much, Councilmember Sawyer for um allowing me to join you in this proclamation.
I think it's so important.
Love all the businesses.
I'm gonna call out to it's not because you're my my favorites, but because it's uh two specific situations that have occurred recently where uh I love that Colfax is funky.
We're all about keeping it funky and keeping it real on Colfax.
Um Crazy Hill decided to destroy my beautiful garden, and so I had to uh put down a chunk of change going back to our friends at City Floral uh to make sure that we have a beautiful garden back in Whittier, and so you have been our repeat, repeat, repeat uh space.
Um, and we are so grateful that you and all the other businesses are here.
Uh, my honey um had his 60th birthday uh this year, and we threw a party of all parties at La Vista uh Motel.
Uh we took over Grandma's basement, and we were partying like it was 1999.
I gotta tell you, La Vista, if you have not been there, go to that motel.
It is just insane.
So is all of the other businesses up and down the corridor.
This is truly where Denver meets our people, where we are very unique, um, very fun.
Um, I am grateful to be able to serve along with Councilwoman Sawyer to Mayfair uh biz and um Hillary, you are your champion, your friend, and thank you so much for your leadership.
And uh thank you all other businesses all along the Colfax Corridor for fighting through the changes that are going through now, would be our T staying strong and then supporting community ongoing.
Thank you.
Councilwoman Lewis.
Hi, thank you so much.
I just wanted to join in on this Love Fest, but I also wanted specifically to thank um City Floral.
So you all know that we hold the um Hiawatha Davis Senior Luncheon, and you all provide us with beautiful poinsettas every year, and I really appreciate it.
So this is the um the biggest uh senior luncheon that we had had, and we asked you all for over 600 poinsettas for the table for each of the guests um who would be coming, as well as um for our centerpieces as well as for our raffle giveaways.
So you guys supplied us with a lot of poinsettas that we haven't reached out yet.
We do intend to.
I hope that doesn't scare you.
Um, and I and I really appreciate the partnership, but the joy that those poinsettas give to the seniors in our community every single year.
Um I don't even have the words, so thank you all for your contributions to the senior luncheon and helping us to remember Hiawatha's legacy.
Thank you.
Thank you all for bringing this.
Madam Secretary Roco.
Council Members Gilmore.
Aye, Parity.
Aye.
Albedares.
Aye, Flynn.
Aye, Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Aye, Heinz, Cashman.
Lewis, Sawyer.
Aye.
Watson.
Aye.
There it is.
Madam Secretary, uh, close the voting and announce the results.
Ten eyes.
Proclamation 260834 has been adopted.
All right.
We have five minutes for the proclamation acceptance.
Council members, who will you be inviting up to accept the proclamation this evening?
We would like to invite the Colfax Mayfair Business Improvement District Executive Director, Hilary Portello.
And I think we have a bunch of our legacy business owners here with us as well.
So come on up, you guys.
You're gonna be the first ones to get to use the new microphone and stand.
So, fingers crossed on whether it works or not.
Come on up.
Come on up.
Come on up.
Well, thanks for the moment.
Um, I'm the first to speak, but I am behind these people.
They have built Colfax, they have seen it all over the years.
Um, they are the most resilient, community-oriented, civic oriented small business owners in our area.
Um, thank you for supporting them.
Please continue to support them.
We need to be a city that supports our local businesses and the local uh taxes that they pay and the jobs that they create and the community that they continue to build and create, even through the worst of times.
Thank you both so much.
Thank you all for the proclamation.
Thank you.
I'm so grateful and thankful for what the city council has done for us, and I'm grateful that we're all here together.
We all work in the same community together.
We all eat in the same area, we shop and do things with each other, and I'm still grateful for all that is done.
And so I'm thankful for this proclamation and the recognition because it's hard.
And I remember when I started my business, the Lord told me that I would never get rich, but you're gonna help somebody help themselves.
And so I've seen a lot of young men and young women come through my salon that's owners now of their own businesses, and so it's always been a good thing.
And I smile when I see them all.
So it's always been a good thing.
So I thank God for that that we were able to help someone help themselves.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Uh yes, and just to follow, thank you, Council, for this uh recognition today.
Um, you know, it's a real treat.
We're, you know, we're really proud of our history on Colfax and our uh participation in the community.
It's it's a great um pleasure for me to own a business that you know we watch people congregate and enjoy these spaces together and beautify their spaces, and um, you know, we take great pride in the fact that City Floral is um the only large independent garden center remaining in in Denver, and it is not easy um to run a garden center business or any business really, uh, any small business.
Um, you face a lot of challenges, and I just appreciate that you took the time to uh put this forth and and recognize you know uh what these businesses do and provide and and our legacy.
Thank you.
Thank you, council for the recognition.
I really appreciate it, and it's nice to have a vote go my way.
And I want to say that I think that with a lot of you, a lot of there was a lot of personal things, and I'm a good person, and I want you to know that I have nothing but love for you guys.
Thank you for acknowledging these businesses, and we need your support.
And I regret some of the situations over the past, but I really appreciate the support at this time.
So thank you very much.
And I especially have love for that man right there for Councilman Flynn.
So thank you guys for all your time.
Thank you.
And kind of like all of these businesses.
When I started 41 years ago, I didn't know how long I would be in business.
We were just kind of trying to figure it out.
Uh, but I feel great support from City Council and the City of Denver.
Somebody may mention earlier that it might be as Amanda that maybe it's a little difficult right now for the environment in Denver.
But I read somewhere in the Denver Post last week that more businesses have opened on Colfax since BRT has started than is closed.
And that bodes really well for the future.
BRT's gonna be awesome when it's done.
And the city is gonna, Colfax is a jewel.
And I'm just lucky to be on Colfax.
And thank you, Amanda.
Thank you, Daryl.
You guys have been great supporters of our district, and uh go Colfax, it's it's awesome.
Council members Watson and Lewis, would you please read proclamation 260846?
Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Guterres.
Proclamation number 260846, recognizing Friday, June 19, 2026 is Juneteenth, Freedom Day in Denver.
Whereas on June 19, 1865, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the emancipation proclamation, Major General Gordon Granger informed the residents of Galveston, Texas, that a United States Civil War had ended, that all persons held as slaves within any state are designated part of a state, the people of which shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then thenceforward and forever free.
And whereas on June 19th of every year, we the people come together as a community and commemorate Juneteenth as a celebration of freedom and community.
And whereas Denver's Black Community has a long and storied history of celebrating Juneteenth, with a first celebration happening in 1966 in Denver's historic Five Points neighborhood.
This celebration now includes an annual parade and music festival that draws thousands of Denverites from across the city to join the community and celebrate, and whereas the city and county of Denver recognizes Juneteenth as an official code to add a 12th paid holiday for the city's career services employees in 2023.
And whereas Denver is committed to racial and social justice.
And Juneteenth provides just one of many opportunities for Denverites to increase their knowledge of Black history while providing an opportunity to celebrate the significant accomplishments made by the Black community in this city and country.
And whereas the city and county of Denver will continue to take necessary and intentional strides towards establishing a city that prioritizes and promotes the racial and social equity and equality.
Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Denver City Council, Section 1, that the Denver City Council recognizes Friday, June 19th, 2026 is Juneteenth Freedom Day in Denver, and acknowledges and condemns the history of slavery in the United States and recognizes that this legacy continues to negatively impact Black Americans.
Equal access to housing, equal access to employment, equal access to health care, and equal access to vote.
Section two, that the clerk and recorder, that the city of that the clerk of the city and county of Denver shall affix the seal of the city and county of Denver to this proclamation, and that a copy be transmitted to Norman Harris and the Denver Juneteenth Committee.
Councilmember Watson, your motion to adopt.
I move that proclamation 260846 be adopted.
It has been moved and seconded.
Comments by members of council.
Councilmember Watson.
Thank you so much, Councilmember Gonzalez Guterres.
The past of being stolen from our country of origin, brought to this country as slaves.
The past of black men and women struggling in cotton fields across this country well after the Emancipation Proclamation was read and we were proclaimed to be free.
That pass still has a mirror to today.
As we look at the rollback of civil liberties and civil rights across this country, as we look back at the rollback of voting rights, which establish the opportunity for black Americans to be fully, fully Americans in this country that we love.
We have to push back.
We have to fight back in a country and an administration that believes that we are less than others, believes that removing our right to vote and removing representation across the South, that is something that is success uh acceptable.
We have for this Juneteenth to remember that the fight is still ongoing.
That our lives, black lives, we do matter, but we don't matter if we don't have the right to vote.
And so I ask folks who are watching this on Channel 8 and folks gonna be watching this in a recording to stand with the Black community and make sure that the pushback, not just from this administration, but elected officials all across this country to roll back the history of degradation and slavery, to roll back the history of voting rights and civil rights that we have fought for so hard and so long, to be the first generation to grow old and possibly leave this earth as black Americans with less rights than the rights we had as we are growing up is something that cannot stand.
And for this Juneteenth, we stand for freedom, we stand for voting rights, and we stand on the shoulders of our ancestors.
So as we walk from manual down to five points, remember our history, remember our legacy, and remember the commitment and responsibility that each of us have.
Thank you, uh, Councilmember Gonzalez Guterres.
Thank you.
Councilwoman Lewis.
Thank you so much.
Um, so Juneteenth is more than a celebration, it's a declaration that freedom is worth fighting for, and a reminder that our work towards justice is not finished.
Juneteenth is more than a celebration, it's a declaration that freedom is worth fighting for, and a reminder that our work towards justice is not finished.
Here in Denver, we honor the resilience, the brilliance, and the enduring contributions of black communities who have shaped our city, our culture, and our future.
We celebrate the generations who refuse to give up, who organized, who created, who resisted and dreamed of a better tomorrow despite extraordinary barriers.
And as we gather and joy music and food and in fellowship with Mr.
Juneteenth and reflection, may we remember that Juneteenth calls us not only to commemorate the end of slavery, but to continue the work of building communities where freedom, opportunity, and dignity belong to everyone.
So happy Juneteenth.
May we celebrate our history.
May we honor our ancestors and recommit ourselves to the ongoing pursuit of justice and liberation.
Thank you, Norm.
Thank you, Council members.
Um both of you for bringing this proclamation forward.
Um in 2022, when I was in the legislature, we finally recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday.
And I'm honored that I was able to be witness of that.
It was it's it's amazing that it took us that long, right, to be at that place.
Um, but it you know, what Juneteenth reminds me of is that it is our liberation is tied up in one another.
Our freedom is tied up in one another.
And as we think about what is going on in our in our world right now, this is this is the time.
This is the time where we need we need to come together, and I have always vowed that um for my family to carry that tradition on um with our black and brown communities um finding unity within our communities and knowing that we're in this fight together, and so I'm honored to be able to support this proclamation and want to continue supporting one another as we take steps into the future.
Right.
Madam Secretary, roll call.
Council members Gilmore, aye.
Aye, Albitres.
Aye, Flynn, aye.
Gonzalez Cutieres.
Aye, Heinz?
Hi.
Cashman, aye, Lewis, aye.
Sawyer.
Watson.
Aye.
Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.
Nine eyes.
Nine eyes proclamation 260846 has been adopted.
Yeah.
We have five minutes uh for the proclamation acceptance.
Council members, who will you be inviting up to accept the proclamation?
I was wondering.
Oh, have mercy.
I done forgot my paw.
I thought you were gonna come through a song and day.
I thought you were getting ready to do some cartwheels back here.
Oh, Mr.
Harris, please.
Um, on behalf of the five points community, on behalf of the city of Denver, on behalf of um so many shoulders and so many people who have worked tirelessly in their lives to fight for this moment.
Um, for me to stand here and accept this proclamation.
I just want to express sincere gratitude.
Um, councilwoman, you mentioned uh the state uh making Juneteenth a holiday in 2022, but I believe it was members of this council who voted for Juneteenth to be a city holiday in 2021.
Um I'm sorry, in 2020, um, which uh actually was before the state and actually before it became a national holiday.
And uh when I look back at the hard work that so many people uh in Denver um and surrounding communities and the love and the effort that they've put to keep the Juneteenth celebration and the Juneteenth holiday at the forefront of people's mind.
I think that that type of decision that you as council made uh is a testament of that.
And uh now you can go out and you'll see and you'll find uh Juneteenth celebrations, not only all over the state, but all over the country.
And I think that the city has really um been the leader and why um we have Juneteenth as not only as a city holiday, a state holiday, but actually a national holiday.
So um thank you so much for this proclamation, and I hope to see you all in five points this weekend.
Madam Secretary, please read the bills for introduction.
From the community planning and housing committee, 26-0620, a bill for an ordinance designating 2329 North Gaylord Street as a structure for preservation, 26-0712, a bill for an ordinance changing the zoning classification for 4625 North Milwaukee Street in Illyria Swansea.
26-0741, a bill for an ordinance changing the zoning classification for multiple properties in Athmar Park, Marley, Overland, Ruby Hill, and Westwood neighborhoods.
26-0742, a bill for an ordinance designating 2100 California Street and 2101 Welton Street as structures for preservation, and from the Finance and Business Committee 26-0758, a bill for an ordinance authorizing a rescission from the general fund contingency and an appropriation in the general fund to make a cash transfer to an appropriation in the liability claims special revenue fund.
Council members, this is your last opportunity to call out an item.
Council Member Flynn, will you make the motions for us this evening?
Uh yes, I will, Madam Akin Pro Tem.
Thank you.
Now I will do a recap under resolutions.
Council resolution 26746 has been called out for comments by Council Member Lewis.
Under bills for introduction, Council Bill 260758 has been called out for comments by Councilmember Lewis.
Council Bill 2608 0686 has been called out for comments by Councilwoman Lewis, and Council Bill 260741 has been called out for an amendment by Councilmember Alvidres.
Under bills for final consideration, Council Bill 260704 has been called out for comments by Council Member Lewis.
Under pending, no items have been called out.
Madam Secretary, please put the first item on our screens.
Council resolution 260746, a resolution approving a proposed loan amendment between the city and county of Denver and Kappa Housing Inc.
to finance income restricted units to be rented to qualifying senior households located at 9095 East 48th Avenue in Council District 8.
Councilmember Lewis, please go ahead with your comments on Council Resolution 260746.
Thank you so much.
So this item essentially reimburses the developer for the cost of construction, the new tower, which is all but done in my district, which I'm very excited about.
And so while while property management and the residents have not always seen eye to eye to eye, excuse me.
Um this is an important source of much needed housing in an upscale neighborhood that serves this underserved demographic.
And so may the new construction foster better connections going forward.
Thank you.
Madam Secretary, please put the next item on our screens.
Council Bill 260704, a bill for an ordinance approving a proposed intergovernmental agreement between the city and county of Denver and Park Creek Metropolitan District for workflow support and review of real estate matters for Park Creek Metropolitan District in Central Park in Council District 8.
Council Member Lewis, please go ahead with your comments on Council Bill 260704.
Thank you so much.
Um so one constant source of frustration amongst my constituents in Northfield and in Central Park is the apparent lack of maintenance and infrastructure.
Improvements on the roads near the Sandoval campus.
This lack of maintenance is due to the fact that the city does not own the streets in question.
And so the metro district built those streets and they must convert those over to city to the city before those streets before they can change anything.
Thus, that has been the holdup.
And so my former chief of staff, Brie, who bless her heart, she worked on this for three years tirelessly, in order to have a better outcome.
And I'm happy to announce that this item will create the staffing support necessary to make those things happen that she had been working on.
And pretty soon we will have the authority to make those needed changes.
And so thanks again to Brie, who was living her best life in Australia, for the work that she did on this.
Thank you.
Madam Secretary, please put the next item on our screens.
Council Bill 260686, a bill for an ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article 13 of the Denver Revised Municipal Code concerning the regulation of lobbyists.
Councilmember Lewis, go ahead with your comments on Council Bill 260686.
Okay.
So right now, I want to thank the bill's co-sponsors.
So myself and Councilwoman Gonzalez Gutierrez, our colleagues for helping to strengthen this bill.
This strikes the right balance for accountability and transparency.
Torres especially wanted to thank Andy, Ben, and Nick from the clerk and recorders office for their guidance and expertise in this bill drafting, engagement, and council process.
Thank you.
And to me, I'm back.
So I am proud to have co-sponsored this legislation, which will increase transparency regarding the work that so often goes behind goes on behind the scenes when important legislation is being run and debated here in Denver.
This bill will closer align us to state standards for lobbying and will also place reasonable reasonable guard guardrails on ensuring that folks with access to information or to power who work in the city will not unduly take advantage of that knowledge the minute they leave working for the city.
And so thank you to my um to my co-sponsors.
Also, thank you to the clerk and recorders office and your amazing staff for the work.
And also thank you to Councilwoman Sawyer for your engagement in this and helping us to get to a place that I think is better.
Thank you.
Thank you, Councilwoman Lewis.
Uh, and I'll just make a few remarks on this as well.
As one of the sponsors, uh, I do really appreciate the partnership from my colleagues, both the sponsors and um all of our council colleagues who provided feedback throughout the entire process to make sure that we addressed uh every every nook and cranny that we could.
Um, but it also again a special shout out to the clerks' team.
Um, you did a phenomenal job.
Thank you for being available.
Thank you for bringing your expertise to the table.
Uh you know, this creates a a really helpful transparency system around lobbying, and it's a step in the right direction in strengthening our relationships with Denver residents so that we are um you know being on the up and up with with what information is out there and what's happening.
Um I really appreciate all the various stakeholders that came to the table and helped to bring this bill forward.
Thank you so much.
All right, Madam Secretary, please put the next item on our screens.
Council Bill 260758, a bill for an ordinance authorizing a rescission from general fund contingency as an appropriation in the general fund to make a cash transfer to an appropriation in the liability claims special revenue fund.
Councilmember Lewis, please go ahead with your comments on Council Bill 260758.
Thank you so much.
Um, so you all know that I keep track of the settlements against the city, and so year to date, we have spent three million eight hundred sixty-seven thousand dollars to settle cases, and as a result of these cases, we have had this I we have this item tonight that makes a rescission that comes from the general fund of the city budget in the amount of three million dollars.
This is money that we could have used for any other purpose, which now is limited to the use for the liability claims SRF, which is what this is.
It represents a miss opportunity, and we must therefore pay extra attention in this budget environment that we are watching out for how the city spends our money, and that we are making decisions for the future with this knowledge.
Thank you so much.
Councilmember Parity.
Thank you.
I also had called comment.
Um I want to make sure can folks hear me.
Yes.
Okay, thank you.
Sorry about that.
I'm always paranoid.
Um, and the reason I called it off was um echoing what council member Lewis said.
I I also want to point out that recently um we've had a number of instances that have been really troubling to me where our independent monitor's office has not been um consulted in the way that they're supposed to be under their ordinance anytime there are changes to disciplinary processes within our safety agencies.
The reason that we have an independent monitor is to attempt to reduce incidences of police misconduct and misconduct in the jail that result in injuries that sometimes lead to these kind of payouts.
And just to be clear, the purpose isn't to avoid the payouts, the purpose is to avoid the injuries and the harm to the community that results in money, which is an inadequate substitute for not having been hard in the first place.
And discipline is an integral part of that.
And so the monitors office is supposed to per its statute be able to make recommendations.
I'm quoted from the statute regarding the appropriateness of disciplinary sanctions, if any, and shall have um shall monitor and participate in basically the promulgation of those kinds of policies.
So the it's a huge problem that the monitor's office has been cut out of these um changes recently.
Um I view that as a violation of the ordinance and certainly of the spirit of the ordinance because the intent is to have oversight, and you can see the result when we keep having um these large settlements because you know people have experienced success of force and similar kinds of things.
So that's all I wanted to say.
Thank you so much, Councilmember Gonzalez, thank you.
Madam Secretary, please put the next item on our screens.
Council Bill 260741, a bill for an ordinance changing the zoning classification for multiple properties in Athmar Park, Marley, Overland, Ruby Hill, and Westwood neighborhoods.
Councilmember Flynn, will you please put council bill 260741 on the floor for publication?
Uh yes, I will.
Thank you.
I move that council bill 26-0741 be ordered published.
It has been moved and seconded.
There is another motion on the floor.
Councilmember Alvidres, what would you like to do with council bill 260741?
Thank you, Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
I move that council bill 26-0741 be amended in the following particulars.
On page one, line 27, strike I-A.
Online on page one, line 31, strike fourth day of June 2026, and replaced with 11th day of June 2026.
On page one, line 32, strike 0226 0087 and replace with 2026 0091.
On page two, line one, strike I-A.
On page two, line six, strike fourth day of June 2026 and replace with 11th day of June 2026.
On page two, line seven, strike two zero two six zero zero eight seven A and replace with two zero two six zero zero seven zero.
Sorry, let me read that one over.
On page two, line seven, strike two zero two six zero zero eight seven A and replace with two zero two six zero zero nine one A.
On page two, line twelve, strike fourth day of June 2026 and replace with 11th day of June 2026.
On page two, line 13, strike 2026 0087B and replace with 2026 0091B.
On page two, line 21, strike fourth day of June 2026 and replace with 11th day of June 2026.
On page two, line 22, strike 2026 0087c and replace with 2026 0091c.
On page two, line 23, strike I-A.
On page two, line 28, strike fourth day of June 2026 and replace with 11th day of June 2026.
On page two, line 29, strike 2026 0087D and replaced with 2026 0091 D.
It has been moved and seconded.
Questions and comments by members of council on the amendment to council bill 2260741.
Councilmember Alvidres.
Thank you.
This change reflects a change in some of the industrial uses in this legislative rezoning in District seven in particular.
There has been uh the plan guidance remains the same to preserve industrial uses, however, community didn't want all of the uses converted to strictly industrial due to one, the legislation around gas stations being allowable near rivers and in industrial areas.
Two the harmful effects that industrial uses in low-income communities has had over generations.
And so we're not going to preactively re-rezone those industrial properties into a more high open broad use of industrial.
Thank you.
Madam Secretary, roll call on the amendment to council bill 26741.
Council members Gilmore.
Aye.
Parity.
Aye.
Alvides.
Aye.
Flynn.
Aye.
Heinz?
Aye.
Cashman.
Aye.
Lewis.
Aye.
Sawyer.
Aye.
Watson.
Aye.
Gonzalez Cutieres.
Aye.
Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.
Ten ayes.
Ten ayes.
The amendment to council bill twenty-six zero seven four one has passed.
Councilmember Flynn, will you please put Council Bill 260741 on the floor for publication as amended?
Yes, I will.
Thank you.
I move that Council Bill 26-0741 be ordered published as amended.
It has been moved and seconded.
Comments by members of council on Council Bill 260741 as amended.
Councilmember Alvidres.
Thank you.
Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
I'd like to thank my colleagues, Councilman Flynn and Councilwoman Torres, who worked so hard on the Southwest Area Plan.
I'm very proud of the work that went into this that talks about preserving the culture from the Asian community and Latino communities in the area, particularly areas like the Asia Center in District 7, and really thinking critically about how we take care of our river as well as combating displacement in the area.
Fernando in particular, as well as others, Libby, who also helped us on this rezoning process.
It's been a lot of work and it's something that I'm very proud of.
Thank you.
Thank you, committee.
Uh Councilwoman Gonzalez.
Thank you.
Madam Secretary, roll call on Council Bill 260741 as amended.
Council members Gilmore.
Aye.
Parity.
Aye.
Alvidres.
Aye.
Flynn.
Aye.
Heinz.
Aye.
Cashman.
Aye.
Lewis.
Aye.
Sawyer.
Aye.
Watson.
Aye.
Gonzalez Cutieres.
Aye.
Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.
Ten ayes.
Ten ayes.
Council Bill 260741 has been adopted or sorry, has been ordered published as amended.
This concludes the items to be called out.
All right.
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.
Councilmember Flynn, will you please put the resolutions for adoption and the bills on final consideration for final passage on the floor?
Yes, I will.
Thank you.
Um, Madam Acting Pro 10.
I move that the resolutions be adopted and the bills on final consideration be placed on final consideration and do pass in a block for the following items.
All series of 2026.
0746-0748-0756-0757-0759.
0726-0727-0728-0729.
0730731, 0732, 0733, 0734, 0735.
0747, 0749, 0737, 0738, 0739, 0740, 0686, and 0704.
I can try to get used to putting the microphones back on again, but you could be an auctioneer, Councilman Flynn.
Uh it has been moved and seconded.
Madam Secretary Roll Call.
Councilman members.
Gilmore.
Aye.
Hi.
Alvidres.
Aye.
Flynn.
Hi.
Hines?
Aye.
Cashman.
Aye.
Lewis.
Aye.
Sawyer.
Aye.
Watson.
Aye.
Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Aye.
Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.
10 ayes.
10 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 260608, changing the zoning classification for 831 South Monaco Street Parkway in Washington, Virginia Vale.
If there are no objections from members of council, we will recess until 5 30 p.m.
before reconvening the regular meeting.
City Council will provide a half-hour general public comment session to hear from the public on city matters.
For except for any matter that is scheduled for a legally required public hearing.
And sites are open across Denver.
Check the website for the details and locations.
Behind the baton is a special presentation exploring the music and art that celebrate and challenge the identity of the American West.
This multimedia if we did not get to today, please join us at the next session or submit your comments in writing.
The next session will be held on Monday, June 22nd.
Sign up begins at 5 p.m.
on Thursday, June 18th.
We look forward to hearing from you again.
Thank you so much for attending.
Council will now reconvene from our early session.
Oh, excuse me.
Here, okay.
There is no unfinished business from the earlier session.
There are no proclamations being read this evening.
We have one required public hearing tonight.
As a reminder, council members need to turn their videos 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, and if you have one, if you have one and your microphone, all speakers should begin their remarks by telling the council their names and cities of residence, and if they feel comfortable doing so, their home addresses.
If you have signed up to answer questions only, state your name and note that you are available for questions of council.
Speakers will have three minutes.
There is no yielding of time.
If translation is needed, you'll be given an additional three minutes for your comments to be interpreted.
Speakers must stay on the topic of the hearing and must direct their comments to council as a whole.
Please refrain from profane or obscene speech and refrain from individual or personal attacks.
Councilmember Flynn, will you please put Council Bill 260608 changing the zoning classification for 831 South Monaco Street Parkway in Washington, Virginia Vale on the floor for final passage.
Yes, thank you, Madam Akin Pro Tem.
I move the Council Bill 26-0608 be placed upon final consideration and do pass.
It has been moved and seconded.
The required public hearing for Council Bill 260608 is open.
May we have the staff report.
We have community planning and development.
Good afternoon, members of City Council.
My name is Fran Peñafiel with Community Planning and Development.
And today I'm here to present you a rezoning for 831 South Monaco Street Parkway from SMX 38 to SMU 3.
We're just getting set up here.
I'm sorry.
Just press F a lot in my hand.
Oh, there you go.
Perfect.
Thank you.
Okay.
As you are familiar with this, we're gonna go over the request.
Then I'm gonna go over the location and context.
We're gonna touch on the process and finally we're gonna go over the review criteria.
This is a small property, it's only 7,050 square feet, and the request is to rezone from SMX3A to SMU3.
It is currently used by a single unit house.
As I said, the current zoning is SMX3A, which is a suburban mixed use district that allows a blend of residential and commercial activity in buildings up to three stories.
The applicant's intent is to combine this parcel with the adjacent property to 801 South Monaco.
You can see there the property that it's zoned SMU3 to the north.
So it's the same property owner, and they're looking at combining the two properties.
That property is already zoned as MU3 and currently contains a DID-restricted affordable housing development.
The site to the north currently provides 28 affordable house affordable housing units and a mix of two, three, and four bedroom homes.
The combined parcels would support a larger affordable housing proposal of approximately 75 units serving households between 30% and 60% AMI, with the applicant pursuing low-income housing tax credits.
Now going into the location and context, this property is located in Council District 6, which is Council Members Cashman District, and it is located in the Washington, Virginia Vale neighborhood.
While the immediate area to the south is single unit residential, it also includes nearby multi-unit buildings, commercial uses, and other pockets of mixed residential scale.
This means that the proposed zoning is not out of character with the existing land use transitions already present along Monaco and in the surrounding blocks.
From a build form standpoint, the neighborhood consists primarily of one and three-story residential buildings.
The proposed zoning maintains those heights expectations while also enabling the opportunity to expand affordable housing in a location well supported by infrastructure and services.
Now looking at the process, informational notice of this rezoning was sent on March 3rd.
Planning board notice followed on April 1st, and planning board had a public hearing on April 15th, where the board voted unanimously to recommend approval.
Community planning and housing committee happened in May 12th, and today we're here in the public hearing, the final public hearing.
We have received no comments or support or opposition letters from any of the RNOs or the general public.
Now looking at the review criteria, as you know, the Denver zoning code uh presents us with three review criteria that we need to look at.
First, we have consistency with adopted plans.
In this case, we have comprehensive plan 2040, Blueprint Denver, and the near Southeast Area Plan.
Looking at Complan 2040, this rezoning aligns with the goals of Complan, which has strong support for expanding housing choices, increasing access to opportunity, and encouraging infield development near transit services and existing infrastructure.
This corridor is an appropriate place for increased residential intensity, particularly when it supports long-term housing affordability.
Now looking at Blueprint.
Blueprint Denver identifies this area as part of the survival neighborhood context.
And a community center place type, an area intended for a mix of residential, commercial, and office uses, generally in buildings up to five stories.
Monaco Street Parkway is classified as a commercial arterial, meaning it is well positioned to support multi-unit residential forms.
Blueprint also specifically specifically emphasizes the importance of affordable housing in areas with good access to transit services and amenities.
Now looking at the near Southeast area plan.
Again, identifies the property as part of community centers, future place type, and it calls for heights up to five stories.
And outlining policy goals that include encouraging new affordable housing near transit and amenities and expanding the range of high quality attainable housing options.
The proposed zoning aligns directly with these goals and supports the area's vision for long-term growth.
The second review criteria is the public interest.
This rezoning is in the public interest because it enables the expansion of affordable housing in a location already served by infrastructure, transit connections, and community amenities.
It supports opportunities for households across a range of incomes, helps expand access to opportunity, and it aligns with citywide goals for sustainable and equitable goals.
And finally, our third review criteria is consistency with neighborhood context and with the intent of the zone district.
The SMU3 district is appropriate here, giving the area's mix of single unit, multi-unit, and commercial uses, as well as its location along a major corridor.
The district's allowed building forms are compatible with the established scale of the neighborhood while still enabling thoughtful residential growth.
To conclude, CPD recommends approval of the rezoning request based on finding that all the three zoning review criteria have been met.
The request is consistent with the adopted plans, it serves the public interest, and it aligns with the neighborhood context and the purpose and intent of the SMU3 district.
And we do have the applicant here if you have any questions.
Thank you very much.
Thank you so much.
We have one individual signed up to speak this evening.
Uh Jesse Paris.
Yes, again, good evening, members of council, those watching at home, those in the council chambers.
My name is Jesse Bashawn Paris and I'm representing for Black Star Action Movement for Self-Defense, positive action commitment for social change, as well as the Unity Party of Colorado, the Northeast Denver Residence Council, Frontline Black News, Subacus Black Experience Enhance, and I reside at the Roach and Bear Bug Infested Legacy Lost and Darrell Watson's District of District 9, the final district nine, the final district of fire points, the historical black district of fire points.
And I am a candidate on a ballot for House District 8.
The elections in November.
Okay, so finally I presented me a rezoning I can actually get behind.
Um I want to know exactly what guarantee is it gonna be a starting, 30 to 60 percent AMR level.
I want to know has there been a group?
Uh not a group, a traffic study, um neighborhood group, uh neighborhood, uh what is it called?
Neighborhood agreement signed, benefits community uh benefits agreement signed, and um, how long is this gonna be for?
Someone can answer those questions.
I would greatly appreciate it.
Good job, Cashman.
I think you got this one.
Thank you.
Questions from members of council on Council bill 26.
Um sorry, that concludes our speakers.
Uh questions from council members on council bill 260608.
Councilman Flynn.
Um thank you, uh Madam Acting Pro Tim.
I appreciate it.
Uh Fran, this is sort of an angels dancing on the head of a pin question.
But it's bugging me because I'm OCD.
On slide four, the uh the parcel uh the area being rezoned does not extend all the way out to the center line, the section line uh of the rest of the the zone district that it's joining, and it carves out a little bit of a notch that retains the old zone.
Yeah, right there you can see it.
Um not that anybody's ever gonna build anything in the middle of the street, but I'm wondering if the legal description of the area that is being rezoned goes out all the way to the east to match the north south line of the yellow big block there.
So you always have the most interesting questions because of course I didn't notice that.
Um, but absolutely we'll go to the middle of the road, so that's where all our rezonings, even if the uh the zone disc the legal description, like that red rectangle, that's the legal description, but the rezoning will go to the middle of the road.
Okay, so it will match with the which is not actually the middle of Monaco, but it's apparently the middle of Monaco when it was just a two-lane street before it was widened, apparently.
There's a section line there or something.
So that so it will be it will go all the way out.
Yeah, thank you.
That satisfies my OCD brain.
No, absolutely.
I didn't notice in the drawing, but yeah, because if you read in the bill at the bottom of the legal description, it says it has a sentence that it says that every rezoning will go to the middle of the street.
Right in everywhere, all our rezonings go to the middle of the road.
Okay, thank you.
That is all.
Thank you.
Any other questions from members of council?
All right, seeing none, the public hearing is now closed.
Comments by members of council on council bill 260608.
Councilman Cashman.
Yeah, thank you.
Uh Councilwoman.
Um, I believe this rezoning request obviously meets all the uh the required criteria.
Um it uh certainly is in the public interest as it increases our supply of affordable housing.
We've had no objections uh to our office or uh to anyone else that I'm aware of from the surrounding community.
So I'm in full support, and I hope my colleagues will join me.
Thank you.
Councilman Heinz.
Uh thank you.
Um uh council member Console Gutierrez.
I do believe it meets all the criteria.
Um I want to wank uh welcome Mr.
Paris back to the chambers.
Thank you for being here.
Thank you, uh Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez.
Great.
Seeing no other uh speakers, um, Madam Secretary, roll call on Council Bill 260608.
Council members Gilmore, Parity, Sawyer.
Aye.
Albitres, aye, Flynn.
Aye.
Hines, Cashman, Lewis, aye.
Watson, aye.
Gonzalez Cutiz.
Aye.
Madam Secretary, close the voting and announce the results.
Eight ayes.
Eight ayes, council bill 260608 has passed.
On Monday, July 13th, 2026, there will be a required public hearing on Council Bill 260712.
Changing the zoning classification for 4625 North Milwaukee Street in Illeria Swancia, and a required public hearing on Council Bill.
Sorry.
Oh, I I think I mistakenly didn't update this.
I'll send you in the chat um the proper regiment announcement.
I'm sorry about that.
Thank you.
Just one moment.
Okay, one moment.
Sorry about that.
All right.
On Monday, June 22nd, 2026.
Council, uh, yeah, we don't want to be here on July 13th.
2026, council will require will hold a required public hearing on Council Bill 260742, designating 2100 California Street and 2101 Welton Street as structures for preservation, and a required public hearing on Council Bill 260620, designating 2329 North Gaylord Street as a structure for preservation.
And on Monday, July 13th, 2026, Council will hold a required public hearing on Council Bill 260741.
Uh just real quick, July 13th.
It has time.
Oh yeah, got it got it.
Never mind.
I'm I'm going the wrong month here.
Council will hold a required public hearing on Council Bill 260741, changing the zoning classifications for multiple properties in Athmar Park, Marley, Overland, Ruby Hill, and Westwood neighborhoods, and a required public hearing on Council Bill 260712, changing the zoning classification for 4625 North Milwaukee Street in Illeria Swansea.
Any protests against Council Bills 260741 and 260712 must be filed with the council offices no later than noon on Monday July 6, 2026.
There being no further business before this body, this meeting is adjourned.
Discussion Breakdown
Summary
Denver City Council Regular Meeting - June 15, 2026
Denver City Council convened on June 15, 2026, in the newly renovated council chambers. Acting Pro Tem Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez presided due to the absence of the President and Pro Tem. The meeting included the adoption of proclamations, introduction of bills with commentary, and a public hearing on a zoning change to support affordable housing. Key themes included traffic safety, support for local businesses, Juneteenth recognition, and legislative transparency.
Council Announcements
- Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez highlighted new chambers and reported 28 traffic deaths in 2026 to date (93 in 2025), expressing concern about meeting Vision Zero reduction goals.
- Councilmember Sawyer thanked staff for the chamber renovation.
- Councilmember Alvidrez promoted Bike Fest and the launch of the South Broadway General Improvement District.
- Councilmember Watson introduced an intern and announced the Juneteenth parade.
- Councilmember Lewis thanked Pride organizers and announced a community session on municipal sentencing.
- Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez (as presiding officer) announced a virtual community session on sentencing legislation.
Proclamations
- Proclamation 260834 (Colfax Mayfair Businesses): Recognized 13 long-standing businesses for over 30 years of operation. Councilmembers Sawyer, Watson, and others praised their resilience amid BRT construction. Voted and adopted (10 ayes). Proclamation accepted by business owners and BID Executive Director Hilary Portel.
- Proclamation 260846 (Juneteenth Freedom Day): Recognized June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth. Councilmembers Watson and Lewis spoke about the ongoing fight for racial justice and voting rights. Voted and adopted (9 ayes). Accepted by Norman Harris of the Denver Juneteenth Committee.
Bills for Introduction and Comments
- Resolution 260746 (Kappa Housing loan): Councilmember Lewis supported it as funding for affordable senior housing in District 8.
- Bill 260704 (Park Creek Metro District IGA): Councilmember Lewis explained it enables street maintenance in Northfield/Central Park, addressing long-standing constituent frustration.
- Bill 260686 (Lobbyist regulation): Councilmembers Lewis and Gonzalez Gutierrez supported the bill, citing increased transparency and alignment with state standards. They thanked the Clerk's office for guidance.
- Bill 260758 (Liability claims fund): Councilmember Lewis noted $3,867,000 in settlements year-to-date, requiring a $3 million transfer from general fund contingency. Councilmember Parity expressed concern about the independent monitor being excluded from disciplinary processes, calling it a violation of ordinance.
- Bill 260741 (Multiple neighborhood rezoning): Councilmember Alvidrez introduced an amendment to strike some industrial conversions in District 7, citing community concerns about gas stations near rivers and historic harm to low-income communities. Amendment passed (10 ayes). Bill ordered published as amended.
Required Public Hearing: Zoning Change at 831 S Monaco Street Parkway
- Staff presented a rezoning from SMX3A to SMU3 to combine parcels for a 75-unit affordable housing development (30-60% AMI) using LIHTC. The project is in Council District 6. No opposition letters were received. Planning board voted unanimously to recommend approval.
- Public Testimony: Jesse Paris (representing multiple organizations) expressed general support but asked about affordability guarantees, traffic studies, and community benefits agreements.
- Councilmember Flynn asked a technical question about the legal boundary to the street.
- Councilmember Cashman supported the rezoning, noting no community objections and alignment with affordable housing goals.
- Voted and passed (8 ayes).
Key Outcomes
- Acting Pro Tem election: Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez elected (10 ayes).
- Minutes of June 8 approved.
- Proclamation 260834 adopted (10 ayes).
- Proclamation 260846 adopted (9 ayes).
- Bills and resolutions on the consent block passed (10 ayes): includes items 26-0746, 0748, 0756, 0757, 0759, 0726-0735, 0747, 0749, 0737-0740, 0686, and 0704.
- Amendment to Bill 260741 passed (10 ayes).
- Bill 260608 (zoning change at 831 S Monaco) passed (8 ayes).
- Next public hearings scheduled: June 22 for preservation designations and July 13 for zoning changes in multiple neighborhoods.
Meeting Transcript
Hey Denver, it's time for the weekly general session of your Denver City Council. Tonight's coverage of Denver City Council starts now. Tonight's meeting is being interpreted in Spanish. Sam or Jasmine, would you please introduce yourself and let our viewers know how to enable translation on their devices? Yes, of course. Thank you for having us. Hello, everyone. My name is Sam Guzmán. Joining you virtually through Zoom. And along with my colleague Jasmine, we will be interpreting today's meeting into Spanish. Please allow me a quick minute while I give instructions in Spanish on how to access interpretation. Muchas gracias, and thank you very much. Thank you very much. Good afternoon, and welcome to the Denver City Council meeting of Monday, June 15th, 2026. My name is Alyssa Ferrera. I am your council secretary. First, we have the Pledge of Allegiance, land acknowledgement, and establishment of quorum to attend to before the floor is opened up for nominations. Council members, please join Council Member Flynn in the Pledge of Allegiance. Council members, please join Council Member Flynn as they lead us in 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 Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho peoples. We also recognize that government, academic, and cultural institutions were founded upon and continue to enact exclusions and erasures of indigenous peoples. May this acknowledgement demonstrate a commitment to working to dismantle ongoing legacies of oppression and inequities, and recognize the current and future contributions of indigenous communities in Denver. Roll call. Alvidus. Gonzalez Cutieris. Here. Heinz? Here. Lewis. Present. Romero Campbell. Sawyer. Here. Torres. Watson. Here. Ten members present. Council has a quorum. The floor is now open for nominations. Council Member Sawyer. I nominate Councilmember Gonzalez Gutierrez to serve as acting President Pro Tem. Madam Secretary, we need it up on our screens. Yeah, sorry. No technical difficulty. Yep, you're all good. It has been moved and seconded. Roll call. Council members Gilmore. Aye. Parody.