District 5 News

Bellevue-Hale & Mayfair ADU Rezoning Proposal

My office has put forward legislation to allow the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) throughout the Hale statistical neighborhood, including Bellevue-Hale, western Mayfair, and northern Hilltop.  An ADU is a small, single apartment located at the back of a property separate from the main house, or built adjacent to a main house such as a basement unit with a separate entrance. ADUs are also commonly known as granny-flats, in-law units, casitas, carriage houses or guest houses.

We wanted to give a huge thank you to everyone who took our survey on this and we are happy to announce that the survey was statistically valid and had 58% of respondents in favor of the changes. Based on the feedback we received in our community meetings, in the survey, and in the East Area Plan, have filed the application with a legislative rezoning that, if approved, will allow all single unit properties in Hale to build an ADU without having to go through a rezoning process.

You're Invited: Nov. 16 East Colfax BRT Community Webinar

Join the East Colfax Ave. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) community webinar on Thursday, November 16 from 5-6 p.m. to hear the latest on the project and preview what's ahead.

The project team will share updated station and streetscape designs, introduce the construction team and preliminary construction plan, and outline the resources available to small businesses during construction.

Can't join live?

Don't worry — we will post the webinar recording to the project website and invite community members to in-person open houses in the next few months. Stay tuned!



Get involved with the Alameda Avenue Corridor Study

Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is leading a study of Alameda Avenue in partnership with the City and County of Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Glendale, the Colorado Department of Transportation, and the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The goal is to develop a shared vision for the corridor from Wadsworth Blvd., in Lakewood to the R-Line in Aurora. 

The study aims to improve mobility and safety for all users and plan for future transit investments, while still preserving the character of the corridor. The study will identify mobility and safety issues and result in recommendations for transportation improvements that will enhance the corridor – making it safer and more accessible for all road users.

DRCOG is currently collecting feedback to understand community concerns with safety, mobility or other transportation along the Alameda Corridor. You can learn more about the study, provide feedback about your experiences along Alameda, and sign up for a focus group discussion on the project website at: https://engage.drcog.org/alameda-avenue-study

Ross Cherry Creek Library has Re-Opened

The Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library reopened the public on Monday, Nov. 13 with extended hours thanks to funding from Strong Library, Strong Denver, supported by the DPL Fund. The branch will be open Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Friday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Out of an abundance of caution, the branch temporarily closed in January 2022 due to concerns raised during an initial structural review of the building. 

Over the summer, multiple teams worked to perform necessary cleaning, maintenance and IT work, to reorganize the space, and to maintain the collection. The branch began hiring staff for the location in September and has worked to fill open positions since. 

The work identified in the second opinion structural review will be implemented next year and over time as needed. The building is safe to reoccupy and we will continue working closely with our partners to ensure the building is maintained. Updates can be found at denverlibrary.org/creekupdates.

Adaptive Reuse Pilot Program for East Colfax Ave. Now Open

The second Adaptive Reuse Pilot Program for East Colfax Avenue is now open for applications. This new initiative complements the existing program for Upper Downtown and is designed to support the transformation of existing buildings within the East Colfax Avenue program area.

The primary goal of this program is to offer assistance to small businesses looking to undertake adaptive reuse projects in Denver. It provides guidance and support in navigating the city's development and permitting processes. Additionally, this pilot program plays a crucial role in contributing to the development of a citywide adaptive reuse program.

We encourage you to share this valuable information with anyone in our community who might be interested. To find out more about adaptive reuse in Denver, including the pilot programs, please visit the project webpage.

Report Problems with Xcel Streetlights

We've noticed a growing number of issues with the light poles provided by Xcel Energy in our area. These poles do more than just light up our streets – they also play a big role in keeping our neighborhood safe. We're counting on your help to spot and report any problems with these light poles to ensure our community stays secure.



If you come across any issues with Xcel's light poles, please don't hesitate to report them. It's easy – just head over to Xcel's reporting site to find a simple way to report any problems you spot. Your watchful eyes and quick reports will help us keep our neighborhood safe and sound. And please let us know about the pole at DenverCouncil5@denvergov.org. Together, we can keep our streets well-lit and trouble-free.

Take the 2023 Annual Survey



Each year our office creates and distributes a survey to help us understand how we can best represent you by identifying issues of concern in our community. The information gathered from the survey is invaluable as we plan and prioritize for the next year (and beyond) with your concerns in mind.

If you haven't already, please take a few minutes to complete the survey by clicking the purple button below or following the QR Code below. You can also access it at https://bit.ly/D5AnnualSurvey23

The survey will close on December 31, 2023. If you have any questions or run into any trouble feel free to email us at DenverCouncil5@denvergov.org, or give us a call at 720.337.5555.

Jackson Street Storm Drain Project

The City & County of Denver, through its Department of Transportation & Infrastructure (DOTI), will soon begin work on a project that will include installing larger storm sewer pipe to better manage and improve flood mitigation during heavy rainstorms. The second phase of the project extends from the intersection of Jackson St and 14th Ave, across Colorado Blvd and south to the intersection of 13th Ave and Colorado Blvd. The project is expected to start this month and last through January 2025. 

14th Ave will see a full closure for approximately 4 months. Colorado Blvd will incur intermittent single lane closures throughout the project, and 13th Ave will see a full closure for approximately 2 months.

Detour signs and message boards will be in place throughout the duration of the project to alert commuters about the work and to expect delays. Impact / detour maps will also be included in the project's weekly email construction updates. For more information visit the project website: jacksonstreetstorm.com or email: info@jacksonstreetstorm.com. Call or text the Hotline at (720) 306-9393 with questions or concerns.

Leaf Drop and Pumpkin Recycling

This fall, give your leaves and pumpkins a second life by dropping them off at a DOTI Leafdrop location! Our composter, A1 Organics, will turn them into compost made available to Denver residents at a discounted price at participating Ace Hardware locations this spring.

Three weekday Leafdrop sites are now open! Weekend sites opened Nov 4. See the full Leafdrop schedule at www.denvergov.org/Leafdrop.

• Cherry Creek Transfer Station – 7301 E. Jewell Ave. (enter on E. Jewell Ave.) 
• Havana Nursery – 10450 Smith Rd. (enter on Smith Road) 
• Central Platte Campus – 1271 W. Bayaud Ave. (next to the Denver Animal Shelter near Building 2 (the Gary Price Building))

Residents utilizing Leafdrop sites are encouraged to bag their leaves in brown paper bags instead of in plastic and can download a coupon to receive a free five-pack of paper leave bags at participating Ace Hardware stores. Leaves dropped off in plastic bags must be emptied on site.

A quick reminder that it’s unlawful to rake your leaves into the street, so please collect and compost your leaves instead! Weekend sites are open until November 19 and Weekday locations are open until December 2.

7th Avenue Bikeway Updates

In 2023, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure installed a new bikeway along 7th Avenue, which has had a number of issues. Three days after we took over the district we hosted a community meeting on July 20 and has been following up with DOTI regularly on this issue.

In response to community concerns, DOTI recently made changes to the design of the 7th & Williams intersection, as well as removing some bollards and replacing them with lower concrete barriers. Our office is unclear as to whether this is the full extent of the changes, and has been advocating for additional enhancements in this area. We are awaiting further response to our concerns from DOTI, including:

• Have the changes to 7th & Williams made the intersection safer?
• Will more bollards be replaced with the lower cement blocks throughout the bikeway?

Because of the situation with the roundabouts on 7th Ave the Denver Fire Department has placed a moratorium on all new roundabouts in the city until the Fire Department and DOTI can come up with a clear set of standards. The Fire Marshall investigated the roundabouts on 7th Ave and they meet the current standards and no changes there need to be made.

Most importantly, we ask residents to please report any crashes or incidents to the Denver Police Department so that data on the outcomes of this bikeway can be tracked. Without this information, DOTI does not have hard data to confirm community suspicions that this bikeway has had the opposite effect of creating more accidents than were previously seen along this corridor. Thank you for your help and partnership in advocating for our community by reporting any accidents you see.

Slow Down Signs Are Back.

You might have seen them around the neighborhood. By popular demand, our SLOW DOWN Signs are back! The purpose of these signs is to remind drivers that our roads are shared with families, residents with disabilities, and our pets, and drivers should slow down in our neighborhoods. If you would like a sign or signs email us at denvercouncil5@denvergov.org

311 Thursdays

We're asking District 5 residents to call in an issue, problem, or complaint every Thursday in 2023! Not only will this help the City know where problems are, it will generate needed data to show how the City can best allocate its resources to make our neighborhoods safer!

Community Spotlight

Richthofen Castle

Richthofen Castle, also known as the "Red Baron's Castle," is a historic landmark located in Denver, Colorado. Here is some information about Richthofen Castle:

History:

• Richthofen Castle was constructed in 1887 by Walter von Richthofen, a German immigrant and uncle of the famous World War I flying ace, Manfred von Richthofen, also known as the Red Baron.
• The castle was designed by the architectural firm of Edwin Moorman and Frederick Carl Eberley in the Romanesque Revival style, characterized by its distinctive red sandstone exterior.

Architecture:

• The castle features a picturesque design with turret-like structures, ornate balconies, and a prominent tower.
• It is known for its architectural intricacies, including intricate stonework, decorative details, and stained glass windows.
• The castle's design is reminiscent of a European castle, which adds to its unique charm.

Current Use:

• Today, Richthofen Castle is a privately owned residence and is not open to the public. It has gone through various renovations and restorations over the years.
• The castle is a designated historic landmark and is a significant part of Denver's architectural history.

While it is not open for public tours, the exterior of the castle is a sight to behold, and it stands as a remarkable piece of Denver's architectural heritage.

Small Business Spotlight

Sploot Veterinary Care

"We love a neighborhood that’s got lots for everyone - pets and pet parents alike. And that’s absolutely the case for Sploot at 9 + Co! 

Easily accessible to Hilltop, Cherry Creek, Congress Park, and South Park Hill residents, this Sploot location features all the great perks of Sploot’s primary and urgent veterinary care - warm and fuzzy care teams, unbeatable appointment availability, vets who text, and more. 



So whether you need an appointment, feel like helping your fur baby to unlimited free treats, or just got questions - stop by anytime, or text us! We’ll be delighted to treat you."

Thank you being an amazing business for all of the residents in the district!

Upcoming Rezonings

If you are interested in commenting during a hearing, please review the guidelines and FAQs, and sign up to speak here. Sign-up for public comment at a hearing begins 45 minutes prior to the Committee’s scheduled start time and ends 15 minutes before the meeting begins. Click here for information about how to participate virtually.

There are currently five open re-zonings requests in District 5. 

• 1401 Fairfax St was filed on Feb 16, 2023. The Planning Board hearing is TBD
• 162 & 190 St. Paul St and 165 & 185 N Steele St. was filed on submitted on April 4, 2023. Planning Board hearing is TBD
• 365 S Kearney was filed on Oct 9, 2023. The Planning Board hearing is TBD
• 101 N Adams St. was filed on February 8, 2023. Planning Board hearing is TBD
• Multiple properties along Colfax Ave receiving the DO-8 Overlay was filed on July 14, 2023. Planning Board informational update was held September 6th. Coming to LUTI October 31. Coming to Mayor-Council November 7. Coming to City Council (First Reading) November 13. Coming to City Council (Public Hearing) December 11.

Upcoming public hearings 

*dates are subject to change

November 20

• Gateway Village General Improvement District- Annual Budget and Workplan
• Denver 14th St. General Improvement District- Annual Budget and Workplan
• RiNo Denver General Improvement District- Annual Budget and Workplan
• Sun Valley Denver General Improvement District- Annual Budget and Workplan

November 27

• 1021 S Hooker St
• 5107-5135 N Emerson Street
• 4850 N Federal Blvd

December 4

• 3701 W 9th Ave
• 3216 N High Street*
• 560 S Emerson *

December 11

• 624 E 50th Avenue and 4964 N Pearl Street
• Multiple Properties on East Colfax between Sherman and Yosemite

Citywide News

DPD's Safety and Transparency Dashboard

We are thrilled to introduce DPD's new interactive dashboard, designed to provide you with a deeper insight into public safety in Denver. This is an extension of the Department of Public Safety's unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. With this innovative tool, you'll have access to timely information regarding disciplinary actions and incidents throughout our city. It's the first step in our journey toward sharing more data and dashboards on various topics that matter to you.

DPD believes in building trust and fostering a better understanding between our department and the community we serve. We look forward to your engagement with this new resource and to sharing more valuable insights with you in the near future.

Stay tuned for additional dashboards covering a wide range of topics, all aimed at making Denver a safer and more informed place to live.

Denver Public Safety Survey

The first annual Denver Public Safety Survey will be administered accessible DenverPublicSafetySurvey.org from October 22nd through December 8th and is available in 14 languages. The purpose of the survey is to solicit feedback on public safety and security concerns from those who live and/or work in Denver. A report on the survey results will be provided to the Denver Police Department to help them better understand your neighborhood’s safety and security concerns. More information on the Denver Public Safety Survey, which is part of the Denver Police Department’s Neighborhood Policing Plan, can be found on the Denver Public Safety Survey website.  

Public safety and security are community concerns. Please make sure your voice is heard by completing the Denver Public Safety Survey today. 

Apply to be a Snow Angel!

The Snow Angels program is an initiative of the Agency for Human Rights and Community Partnerships that is aimed to assist residents in Denver in need of assistance shoveling their front sidewalks during the cold winter months. This is a volunteer service created to avoid fines for non-compliance of clearing pedestrian walkways in front of homes.

Eligible applicants include the following:

• Must be a Denver City & County resident
• Residents or older adults physically unable to shovel
• Neighbors living with a disability
• Financially unable to pay for a service

If you reside outside the City and County of Denver and need assistance, please call 211.

The Snow Angels program does not:

• Remove snow in driveways or front steps
• Remove down trees/branches on front walks



Cherry Creek & Speer Blvd Feasibility Study Open House

There will be an open house on November 30 for the Cherry Creek and Speer Boulevard Vision and Reconfiguration Feasibility Study, which is managed by Community Planning and Development, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Parks and Recreation. The study aims to develop a realistic vision to improve how people move through and experience Speer Boulevard and the Cherry Creek trail between Colfax Avenue and I-25. At the open house, participants will be able learn more about the study, view potential changes that can be made to the study area, and provide feedback on their experience as a user of the area, whether they live, commute, recreate, shop, or explore along the corridor.

When: 4 – 6 p.m., Thursday, November 30

Where: The Commons on Champa

1245 Champa St. 

Denver, CO

For those unable to make the in-person open house, there will be an interactive online version of the same material provided on the project webpage from November 30 – December 14.

Help Venezuelan Refugees with Birdseed Collective

An urgent need has arisen in our community. Families near a Globeville hotel housing Venezuelan refugees are struggling to access essentials like clothing, food, and winter gear.

Birdseed Collective, a vital support for low-income families in GES neighborhoods, is overwhelmed and urgently seeking your help.

We ask for your support. Please consider donating these essential items to Birdseed Collective in Globeville and similar organizations in our districts that assist those in need.

Your generosity can make a big difference.

Learn more and donate at https://www.birdseedcollective.org/.

Denver Moves: Bikes Update

Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) has launched Denver Moves: Bikes Update, a citywide planning effort to update DOTI’s recommended bike network, which was last updated in 2015 (bit.ly/denverbikemap). This update will help DOTI build more comfortable and connected bikeways and develop an ongoing program to upgrade Denver’s existing bikeways over time. 

It’s important that DOTI hears from you about your experience biking and rolling in Denver so that they can craft an updated, visionary network together with the community. DOTI would like your help to answer the following questions:  

·       Where are there gaps in Denver’s existing and planned bike network?  

·       Where do our existing bikeways feel uncomfortable or unsafe?    

Your feedback will help DOTI develop recommendations for bicycle network improvements across the City and County of Denver. The survey and interactive map will be open until December 15, 2023. Visit bit.ly/denverbikesurvey to let us know what you would like Denver’s bike network to look like in the future!

Interested in learning more and want to ask questions?

Join the virtual community kick-off meeting! Mark your calendars for this live virtual meeting and join via the link below: 

WHEN: Wednesday, November 15, 2023 | 5 – 6 p.m.  

WHERE: on Zoom at: bit.ly/DenverMovesBikesMeeting1   

·       Call in #: 720 707 2699  

·       Meeting ID: 865 0824 0757 

DHS Holiday Gift Drive

Denver Human Services (DHS) launched the13th annual holiday gift drive that aims to collect holiday gifts for children, families, older adults, and adults with disabilities in need, many of whom may face situations that increase feelings of stress and isolation during the holidays.

The annual holiday gift drive has served more than 16,000 community members in need since its launch in 2011. In 2022, the drive provided holiday gifts to more than 3,200 people who DHS served across its programs and services. 

There are three easy ways for Denverites to donate:

1. Sponsor a family, teen, or older adult. Team up with your network or register as an individual, then head to denvergov.org/GIVE to sponsor a family, teen or older adult. You’ll receive an individualized list to use when shopping especially for them. Registration will remain open until Nov. 21, 2023, or until all donor/recipient matches are made.
2. Make a monetary donation. Let DHS do the shopping for you and make a credit card donation by clicking here or send a check made payable to DHS Manager of Finance, with #BeAGiver Holiday Gift Drive in the memo line and mail to the above address.
3. Donate general holiday gifts for all ages. Choose from items on our YouGiveGoods or Amazon wish list, or take a look at our Holiday Gift Guide PDF and have your donation sent contact-free using any shipping service to:

Denver Human Services

Attn: GIVE Holidays

1200 Federal Blvd

Denver, CO 80204



You can also schedule a drop-off in person throughout November via their calendar. 

My Spark Denver

I'm delighted to be supporting My Spark Denver, which is giving 4,000 middle school students who go to DPS schools and qualify for free or reduced lunch $1000 to spend at afterschool and summer programs! There are remarkable opportunities for art, music, dance, sports, tutoring and more! We've got some great programs in our neighborhood - it is first come first serve, so go register at MySparkDenver.org and tell other kids who might benefit from it to register as well!

RTD's ZERO FARE for Youth

FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2023 THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2024, YOUTH 19 AND UNDER CAN JUST HOP ON BOARD

RTD is excited to welcome a future generation of transit users to experience all the benefits at no cost. Zero Fare for Youth is a one-year pilot program that aims to enhance the lives of RTD customers and communities by reducing transportation costs for families. By inviting youth ages 19 and under to ride the bus and train at no cost, we also remove barriers to education and employment, while creating access to destinations across the metro Denver region. If you’re new to our system, check out RTD's How to Ride video.

What Do I Need to Show When I Ride?

To ride at no cost as part of this program, you must be prepared to show one of the following to the bus operator or fare inspector: current school ID, valid government-issued ID, alien registration/permanent resident card, Military ID/dependent card with DOB, RTD-issued youth special discount card.

Protect Your Car With DenverTrack

We know you're concerned about stolen cars, and our DPD Officers have implemented a solution to help stop car thefts in our city. The DenverTrack program works with the vehicles’ GPS systems to track stolen vehicles in real time. The program requires vehicle owners to preauthorize Denver Police access to the manufacturer's GPS service (e.g., OnStar, etc.) in the unfortunate event that their vehicle is stolen. If the vehicle is stolen, when the vehicle owner calls police to report the theft, DPD can then track the vehicle in real time with the goal of locating and returning the vehicle to the owner and arresting the suspect.

Participants will be able to receive a DenverTrack sticker for placement on their vehicle. The sticker is a visible deterrent that alerts potential thieves that the vehicle has GPS and will be tracked if stolen.

Protect Your Bike With DPD's 529 Garage

Great news for cyclists in Denver! The city has launched a new digital bicycle registration and tracking platform called 529 Garage. Developed by Project 529, this system replaces the outdated database previously used by the Denver Police Department (DPD).

By signing up on the DPD's website or downloading the 529 Garage app, you can register your bike for free. Simply enter your bike's details, including the serial number, make, model, and color. Already registered? Your information has been transferred to the new system.

As an added bonus, the 529 Garage program offers a tamper-resistant decal called the 529 Shield. It comes with a unique seven-character ID code, acting as a visible deterrent to thieves. Happy cycling and stay safe!

The DA's November Scam Spotter

Let's dive into the latest scam spotter tips:

Lost Pet Scam 

Scammers are targeting owners of lost pets to extort cash or bitcoin. They get your phone number from lost dog posters or posts on Nextdoor. In one example the scammer called the owner claiming to be the animal shelter and said in order to retrieve the dog the owner would have to pay for a vaccine before the dog would be released. Animal shelters don’t operate that way.

DeepFakes: A New Wave of Scams 

We will continue to provide updates on ways that new technology, like artificial intelligence (AI), is being used by scammers. 

Now enter DeepFakes. A deepfake is an image, video, or audio recording that is used to misrepresent someone doing or saying something that was not actually done or said. These video and audio recordings look and sound completely authentic.

The video below provides a tip on how to keep from being a victim of a deepfake version of the grandparent scam. 

What’s the word: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By-oPDvHrak

Community Events & Meetings

Cherry Creek Holiday Market

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 – SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2023

The elves have nothing on Cherry Creek North. Holiday shopping should always be this fun! Join us for the 4th annual Holiday Market and spend the day wandering under the lights on Fillmore Plaza, listening to live music and getting into the seasonal spirit as you discover one-of-a-kind pieces from 40+ local makers, designers, and creators.

Saturday Night Lights at Cherry Creek

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 9, & 16, 2023

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the season and enjoy complimentary treats as you wander beneath 600 illuminated and musically choreographed trees. Watch as stilt walkers, acrobats, jugglers and performers add to the festive atmosphere.

Small Business Weekend

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24 – SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2023

We all know that the best gifts come in small packages — and the best shopping is often with small businesses. Support your favorite local shops all weekend long from one easy location.

Denver's Mile High Tree - Mile High Holidays

Denver’s holiday season will once again be bigger and brighter with the spectacular Mile High Tree! Step inside this brilliantly lit, 110-foot-tall immersive art installation. It will be open all season long.

Create a new family tradition and join in the free nightly festivities at Denver’s latest holiday attraction. The Mile High Tree puts on a dazzling music and lights show. It's the largest installation of its kind in North America. The tree was created by ILMEX Illumination, a globally renowned decorative lighting production company in Spain. Madrid-based Brut Deluxe handled the lighting design using pixel-mapping technology.



The tree will be lit throughout the season for the public’s enjoyment and will be open for program viewings from 5 -10 p.m. November 17 – December 31, 2023 (weather permitting). See the complete list of details on the website.

Registered 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 entering your address or selecting a location on the map.

• Bellevue-Hale Neighborhood Association
• Cherry Creek East Association
• Cherry Creek North Neighborhood Association
• Country Club Historic Neighborhood Inc.
• Crestmoor Park (2nd Filing) Homes Association
• Crestmoor Park Neighborhood Association
• Driving Park Historic District
• Hilltop Neighborhood Association
• Hilltop Heritage Association
• Historic Montclair Community Association, Inc.
• Lowry Community Master Association
• Lowry United Neighborhoods
• Mayfair Neighbors, Inc.
• Mayfair Park Neighborhood Association
• Park Forest Homeowners Association
• Preservation of Residential South Hilltop Neighborhood Association
• Rangeview Neighborhood Association
• Seventh Avenue Neighborhood Association
• South Hilltop Neighborhood Association
• Windsor Gardens Association
• Winston Downs Community Association

View as Webpage