Denver District 5 | July 2021
Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer | District 5
720-337-5555 |  [email protected]
Senior Aide: Logan Fry | Aide: Sara Visser | Aide: Jenn Gross | Aide: Felicia Rodriguez
Dear Neighbors, 

I hope you were able to join us at Cranmer Park for the holiday celebration on July 2. It was so lovely to see more than 1,500 people together and it felt great to be together in-person once again to experience the music and fireworks. Thank you to Denver Municipal Band; event sponsors Overture at 9+CO, Mile High Modern and The Rotary; and the Cranmer Park Hilltop Civic Association for putting on a fantastic community event. You did an amazing job!

Another great opportunity for our community to gather is coming up! Save the Date for Saturday, September 25 for District 5 Neighborhood Night with the Colorado Rapids. Bring your family and neighbors to Dick's Sporting Goods Park for a BBQ, soccer game and the opportunity to meet Rapids players. Stay tuned for details on this fun community event.

As always, the District 5 team is here as a resource for everyone in the District 5 community. Please be in touch if there is anything we can do to assist you.

Gratefully,

Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer 
District 5 
Speak with CW Sawyer about the issues that are on your mind! As Denver begins easing restrictions, CW Sawyer will hold occasional face-to-face, drop-in meetings at locations in D5. Unless otherwise indicated below, Office Hours will be held virtually by private phone or Zoom appointment. Please email our office or call 720-337-5555 to reserve a virtual meeting time. If you're unavailable for these dates, please contact our office to schedule an appointment at another time. Dates and times are subject to change.

  • Thursday, July 22, 11:00am - 1:00pm
  • Thursday, July 29, 11:00am - 1:00pm
  • Thursday, August 12, 11:00-1:00pm
Near Southeast Area Plan: Registration is Now Open for the Virtual Kick-Off Meeting on Tuesday, July 20, 6:00pm
Are you ready to work with your neighbors to create a long-term vision for the Near Southeast Area or simply interested in learning more? Neighborhoods in this project planning include Washington Virginia Vale, Virginia Village, Indian Creek, Goldsmith and the area of University Hills north of Yale Avenue. The virtual community kickoff on July 20 will launch the planning process - attendees will learn about Denver's neighborhood planning and how plans serve communities; share thoughts and ideas on the future of the Near Southeast Area; and have the chance to ask questions. Interpretation in Spanish will be provided. Click here to learn more about the project, access a recording of the virtual event after July 20, and see copies of all materials presented.
Changes to Trash, Recycling & Compost Pick-Up Days On-Hold
In last month's issue of this newsletter, our office passed along information from Denver's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) that trash/recycling/compost pickups in D5 could be re-routed by in early August. After hearing feedback from members of City Council, and because of concerns with timing/outreach, DOTI has decided to postpone this change to a yet-to-be-determined date in 2022. DOTI says to Councilmembers, "We are working on a robust rollout plan and will reach out to all of you for feedback and ideas. We thank you for your understanding and support to make this future rollout a success." Our office will update you as we learn more. For now, pick-up days will not change. Click here for a collection schedule and to sign up to receive reminders.
Critical Need for All Blood Types - Please Donate!
Last winter, the D5 office partnered with Vitalant in Lowry for the #sedenvergivesblooddrive and to help raise awareness about the critical importance of blood donation. Thank you to everyone who donated then and continues to do so.

Unfortunately, current blood bank reserves are at dangerously low levels, and Vitalant is working tirelessly to recruit more blood donations and build up reserves. If you have the capacity to donate blood, please do so. If you are COVID-19 vaccinated and wondering if you're allowed to give blood or platelets, the answer is an enthusiastic "Yes!" if you meet all general blood donation eligibility criteria. The D5 #sedenvergivesblood drive link is still active - click here to make an appointment. If the link gives you grief, please click here to email Jenn in our office, who will help you troubleshoot. Click here to learn more about blood donation and Vitalant.
Save the Date for Two D5 Town Hall Meetings in August to Discuss Tobacco Products
Our office is hosting two Town Hall meetings in August to hear from constituents about a possible ban on flavored tobacco products in Denver. These two meetings will have their own focus and agenda, will include Spanish interpretation, and ASL interpretation will be provided upon request a week in advance. Our office will update you on that information at it develops.

Tuesday, August 10
6:00pm - 7:30pm
Friday, August 13
Noon - 1:30pm
Upcoming Food Drives, Vaccine Clinics and Virtual Town Hall Hosted by The Fax Partnership
The Fax Partnership, in collaboration with Aurora Interfaith Community Service, is hosting the events listed below over the next several weeks. The Vaccine Clinic and Food Drives will be held at The Fax offices at 6740 E. Colfax Avenue in the back parking lot, and the Denver Public Library mobile book van will also be there for residents to explore. At the Food Drives, a 20-pound box of produce and canned goods will be provided to anyone who wants one.

  • Vaccination Clinic and Food Drive: Tuesday, August 10 at 10:00am until all food boxes are distributed; everyone who gets a vaccine will receive a gift card

  • Food Drive: Tuesday, September 14 at 10:00am until all food boxes are distributed

  • Virtual Town Hall: Wednesday, August 4 - East Colfax residents will have the opportunity to talk with the Denver Urban Renewal Authority, Elevation Community Land Trust and Energy Outreach Colorado about financial assistance programs for low-income homeowners.

Questions? Email Monica Martinez at The Fax Partnership or call 303-478-0266.
Tips for Cleaning Your Reusable Bags
As you may be aware, on July 1 Denver’s Bring Your Own Bag program went into effect, requiring all retail stores to charge 10- cents for each disposable carryout bag provided at checkout. The mandatory fee applies to paper, plastic, and even compostable bags to encourage shoppers to use reusable bags and help reduce the number of disposable bags that are used, littered, and landfilled.

According to the American Cleaning Institute (ACI), "Reusable bags are a sustainable alternative to plastic bags. However, they need proper care to prevent things like germs and mold from growing and cross-contaminating your food. Wash and store bags safely between each use." Here's are a few suggestions from ACI. Click here to learn more.

Clean
  • Wash bags after each use, following care instructions.
  • Wipe insulated bags with a disinfecting or sanitizing cloth, especially along the seams.

Separate
  • Use and label separate bags for raw meats, seafood and produce.
  • Keep bags for non-food items like cleaners, books, etc. separate from food bags.

Store
  • After washing, make sure the bags are dry before storing.
  • Don't store your bags in your car trunk. This is a dark, warm and often humid environment that promotes bacteria growth. Store bags at home in a cool, dry environment where air can circulate.
USPS Advises Lowry Residents to Empty Mailboxes Every Day
The US Postal Service (USPS) has alerted the Lowry Community Master Association that a mailbox kiosk master key has again been stolen, resulting in the unauthorized opening and emptying of at least two Lowry mailbox kiosks in early July. USPS inspectors are working to find the individuals responsible but advise all Lowry residents to empty their mailboxes every day. Questions? Contact the USPS Montclair Station at (303) 333-2290 or visit in-person at 8275 E. 11th Ave. at the intersection of 11th Ave. and Uinta Way.  
Montclair Rec Center Reminders: Weight/Cardio and Gym Now Open; Pool Closed Into Winter Months
Montclair Rec Center in Lowry is now open for weight room cardio equipment and drop-in gymnasium use, Monday - Friday, 7:00pm - 3:00pm. Usage is free for MYDenver, MYDenver PRIME, SilverSneakers and ReNew Active members and only $2 per visit for all others. Denver Parks & Rec (DPR) is not currently selling memberships because some rec centers are still closed. Click here for more information about Montclair Rec Center.

As you may recall, the Montclair Rec Center swimming pool is undergoing HVAC system updates as part of the Elevate Denver Bond projects. Because of this work, the pool will not align with the City's Recreation Center Phased Reopening Plan due to the additional improvements. Questions? Click here to send an email to Shelly Pawlowski, Montclair Rec Center Sr. Recreation Supervisor, or call her at 720.865.0562.
STAR Behavioral Health Program Succeeding and Expanding
After the success of the Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) Pilot Program over the past year, Denver Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) is expanding the program. The STAR Program deploys Emergency Response Teams that include Emergency Medical Technicians and Behavioral Health Clinicians to engage individuals experiencing crises related to mental health issues, poverty, homelessness, and substance abuse rather than police. Click here to learn more about STAR and other behavioral health programs available through the City and County of Denver.
Extreme Heat Reminders: Tips to Stay Safe & Cool(er)!
During Denver's recent heat wave, temperatures neared 100 degrees for several days. High temperatures will certainly return and are dangerous for humans and animals. Denver’s Department of Public Health & Environment (DDPHE) offers the tips below to help beat the heat. Click here for more tips to stay safe, prevent heat-related illness, and protect your pets during uncomfortably high temperatures.

  • Stay inside in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible
  • Drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink
  • Take cool showers or baths to cool down, fans will not protect against heat-related illness during extreme temperatures
  • Don’t use the stove or oven to cook—it will make you and your house hotter
  • Never leave a pet or child alone inside a hot car
  • Avoid excess exercise with your pet when it’s hot outside
  • Provide adequate shelter and access to fresh water for pets who are left outside during the day
You’re invited to Walk for the Canal: A Challenge to Support Your 71-Mile High Line Canal
Join the High Line Canal Conservancy’s second-annual Walk FOR the Canal to raise much-needed funds for the historic High Line Canal trail. Participate any time between August 1 and October 10 - at your own pace, on your own time, in your own way. Collect donations, win prizes & get moving outdoors! Join the Bike FOR the Canal Challenge, a new way for cyclist enthusiasts to participate, and receive a High Line Canal Primal Wear jersey for their 71-mile journey. The Walk for the Canal Kick-Off Event is on Sunday, August 1, 9:30am - 1:00pm and will include light refreshments, a nature walk around the historic Little Dry Creek property and a celebration of Colorado. 

Opportunities to Sponsor or Volunteer at the DPS Foundation's Inaugural Back to School Bash on July 30
Back to School Bash is the Denver Public School (DPS) Foundation’s celebratory back-to-school fundraiser event. Corporate and community members can join together in-person on July 30 and/or virtually to show our students and educators we stand behind them as they embark on a new school year. Volunteers can participate in whatever way is meaningful to them: write encouraging notes for students and educators, collect school supplies, or gather to beautify multiple school campuses through hands-on volunteerism. Sponsorship opportunities are still available—click here for more information, and join the fun in giving back to our schools, students, and educators. 
Current City of Denver Public Comment Opportunities
If you are interested in commenting during a hearing, please take a look at the guidelines and FAQs here.

There are currently three open rezoning requests and one Legislative rezoning proposal in District 5:
  • Rezoning application at 1091 S. Parker Rd. & 7400 E. Mississippi Ave was filed on February 10, 2021.
  • Planning Board public hearing scheduled for July 21. Click here for updates.

  • Rezoning application at 5350 Leetsdale Drive was filed on April 19, 2021.
  • No additional information is currently available. Click here for updates.



Upcoming hearings on re-zoning requests in other Districts are listed below - dates are subject to change. For more information on proposed re-zonings around the city and their public hearings visit the Denver Community Planning and Development website. If you don't have internet access, you can still attend Council meetings by phone. Call 720-928-9299 and enter the Meeting ID of the meeting you wish to listen to. Click here to learn more and to see a Meeting Calendar.

June 21
  • 1718 Tamarac Street

July 19
  • 3133 Raleigh St
  • Golden Triangle Zoning Updates

July 26
  • Ordinance change to extend the ability of Healthy Denver Kids to support more non-profit organizations that work to reach families with food insecurity in Denver: DDPHE 21-0532
  • 4012, 4040, 4046, 4058 Fox Street
  • 930 N Bryant Street, 2449 W 10th Avenue, 991 N Alcott Way

August 2
  • La Alma Lincoln Park Historic Designation
  • 2208 N. Bellaire Street
  • 4710 Pennsylvania St

August 9
  • 945 Irving Street E-SU-D to E-SU-D1
  • Multiple Addresses in Sloan Lake & West Colfax
  • 1632-1680 N Sheridan Blvd
Phil Washington Confirmed as DEN CEO
On July 12, City Council approved Mayor Hancock's nominee, Phil Washington, as the next CEO of Denver International Airport (DEN). He is scheduled to formally step into this position on July 16. This was the first time that Ballot Measure 2E - approved by Denver voters in November 2020, was used by Council to require a conversation with the nominee before approving them. CW Sawyer authored Ballot Measure 2E, which requires City Council approval of 14 mayoral appointees, including the CEO of DEN.
 
"Prior to November, the mayor would have been able to appoint Mr. Washington without a conversation at all. Without a discussion at all. Without ever having anyone answer a single question," said CW Sawyer. "The reason that we advanced this legislation was specifically to add an element of transparency and accountability in our appointment processes, which haven't existed up to this point."
Share Your Thoughts About Denver Moves Everyone 2050
Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) is seeking input on this citywide plan identifying transportation solutions that will make it easier to get where we want to go. Denver Moves Everyone 2050 seeks to prioritize equitable and safe solutions for Denverites, and improve the movement of goods and services, with the goal of ensuring you have access to everything you need. This brief survey will put you in the mix for future communication about the plan and it will give you an opportunity to offer some high-level input — your values related to transportation, your priorities, generally, and your own travel behavior.
Want to Add Shade to Your Yard? Apply for a Free Tree!
Since the launch of Be a Smart Ash, the Office of the City Forester has planted more than 10,000 free trees for Denver property owners who have space for a tree in their public right-of-way. Applying online is easy, and a certified arborist will carefully evaluate your space, determine the best kind of tree for your property and, if you qualify, the new tree will be delivered and planted along with specific instructions for how to immediately provide the best care for your tree to ensure a healthy future. This program is open to property owners, including businesses and condominium associations, across the city of Denver. Click here to learn more and apply for your tree.
City Council is Seeking Candidates to Serve on the Denver Civil Service Commission and Represent Council on the City’s Head Start Policy Council
Head Start Policy Council
Head Start is a national program that provides comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and families. It is an integral part of Denver’s early childcare programming. The purpose of the Head Start Policy Council is to oversee Denver’s Head Start program, to be involved in the community, promote understanding of the Head Start program, and to hear and resolve community conflicts concerning Head Start programs.  


Civil Service Commission
The Commission is responsible for establishing, fostering and maintaining a merit personnel system for the classified service of the Denver Police and Fire Departments; examining, screening and certifying applicants for original and promotional appointment to the Classified Service within the Denver Police and Fire Departments; and hearing disciplinary appeals of classified members. Other duties include, powers and responsibilities necessary to effectuate the intent of the Charter relating to the Commission. 


For any questions about either of these opportunities, please email Emily Lapel.
Virtual & In-Person Events
Hilltop Summer Movie Night
Onward on Thursday, July 15, 6:30pm
Croods: A New Age on Thursday, August 19, 6:30 pm
Robinson Park on 3rd Ave. between Fairfax and Glencoe
Presented by The Cranmer Park/Hilltop Civic Association. Bring blankets and low chairs (for optimal viewing). Food and dessert trucks available starting at 6:30pm.
Free Movie in Hale Park: Watch Disney's Coco Under The Stars!
Saturday, July 17, 8:30pm - 10:00pm
Hale Park 4128 E 10th Ave,
Park opens at 6:00pm
This event is free, click here to RSVP and to see a map of free garage parking. Hosted by 9+CO and AMC 9+CO 10. Bring your own blanket or chair. Seating is general admission, first-come, first-served. Alcohol is prohibited at this event.
An Evening with Colorado Attorney General and Lowry Resident Phil Weiser: "Repairing Our Democratic Institutions"
Tuesday, July 20, 7:00pm
Attend this free event in-person at the Eisenhower Chapel, 293 Roslyn Street (reservations are suggested) or watch the live stream Click here for more information, to reserve your ticket or to attend virtually. On July 12, a recording will be available on the Lowry Foundation website.
Live Performances at DCPA Return in November: Tickets on Sale Now!
DCPA says "Take a break from the screen and be swept away by the emotion that only live theatre can deliver." All previously accumulated COVID-related account credits will be honored through December 31, 2023 Click here to see the full show line-up and to buy tickets or subscribe.
Eisenhower Chapel's 80th Birthday Extravaganza
Saturday, August 21, 4:00pm - 8:00pm
A 1940s-style celebration is planned with music, food, cash bar and dance lessons. Click here for tickets and more information.
Denver District 5 Neighborhood Organizations
Denver is a unique city in promoting greater citizen involvement through organized neighborhood associations. Currently, there are 78 statistical neighborhoods represented by more than 200 registered neighborhood organizations (RNOs), Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Homeowner Associations (HOAs).

In its defined geographic area, an RNO will normally address neighborhood quality of life issues - such as traffic, development and zoning, crime, communication and licensing, and promote social activities to enhance residential spirit, developing a sense of community, and encourage resident participation. RNOs meet regularly and many send out newsletters to keep residents informed on neighborhood issues and events.

Get more involved in your community by joining your Registered Neighborhood Organization (RNO). Below is a list of Council District 5 community organizations. You can also find out which RNO you belong to by and entering your address or selecting a location on the map.