June 25, 2026

This collage of images of a library, fire station, park and road links to a webpage about Build Up Aurora

Council approves ballot questions to address infrastructure needs

Aurora’s quality of life and economic health depends on safe, adequate and well-maintained infrastructure. The city has over $2 billion in priority infrastructure needs, including transportation, public safety, parks, libraries and recreation facilities in its 10-year capital improvements master plan.

The Build Up Aurora Infrastructure Task Force, a group of business and community leaders, has convened since late 2024 to carefully analyze the city’s infrastructure needs and conduct extensive outreach to understand community priorities.

The task force finalized short-term, mid-term and long-term recommendations in late April to address these needs.

In June, the Aurora City Council approved the task force’s short-term recommendation to pursue voter authorization in November for a $264,515,000 bond program and supporting a combined sales and use tax rate increase of 0.325% (just over 3 cents on a 10 purchase) with a 30-year sunset.

The three ballot questions will ask voters to consider:

A 0.132% sales and use tax increase (1.3 cents on a $10 purchase) to fund over $107 million in transportation infrastructure improvements
A 0.064% sales and use tax increase (0.6 cents on a $10 purchase) to fund over $52 million in public safety infrastructure improvements
A 0.129% sales and use tax increase (1.3 cents on a $10 purchase) to fund over $104 million in community facilities improvements

Proposed capital projects to be funded from bond proceeds include:

Park renovations and new park construction
Recreation center improvements and new northeast-area recreation center construction
Library branch improvements and new northeast-area library construction
Targeted traffic, intersection and pedestrian safety improvements
Targeted roadway improvements and expansions
Fire station renovations and remodels
Aurora 911 facility capital improvements
Police facilities improvements (mechanical and electrical systems, ADA improvements, restroom remodels, workspace modifications, site improvements like drainage and parking, and public interface enhancements)

To find out more about this strategic and community-driven effort to address Aurora’s infrastructure needs, including an interactive map of proposed projects, visit AuroraGov.org/BuildUpAurora.

This graphic of a fireworks image with the words Furlough and Independence Day closures links to a webpage with more information

City announces furlough and Independence Day closures

As part of the third of four scheduled furlough days in 2026, most city of Aurora facilities and operations will be closed Thursday, July 2, except for essential services and emergency operations. For more information about furlough days, visit AuroraGov.org/Furloughs.

In observance of Independence Day, some city services and facilities will be closed or operating on adjusted hours Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4. For a complete list of facility closures and holiday hours, visit AuroraGov.org.

Residents are also invited to celebrate Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular, from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 4, on the Great Lawn at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. The evening will feature live entertainment, food vendors and family friendly activities, with a fireworks display beginning at 9:30 p.m. For event details, including the performance lineup, parking information and a viewing map, visit AuroraGov.org/Events.

This image of a bowl of ramen contains text that says Map your next meal with Aurora Eats and explore the guide at Aurora Eats dog org and links to the Aurora Eats website

This graphic with words supporting the copy links to the registration form for this event

African Business Conference coming this Saturday in Aurora

Join the city’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs and the African Chamber of Commerce Colorado USA for “Innovation Unlimited 2026: African Business Conference.”

Conference topics:

How to start your own business
How to do business with the government
Access capital to start and grow your business
Inspiring success stories
How to thrive in an era of digital transformation

This conference, designed for entrepreneurs from the African community, will take place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at APS-Professional Learning and Conference Center-PLCC, 15771 E. First Ave.

This image of people standing at a tent talking with people behind a table links to a webpage with more information about this event

Celebrate our pollinators June 27 at our garden

The city of Aurora invites the community to take part in the annual Party for Pollinators from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, June 27 at the Aurora Water-wise Garden, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. The garden is located on the east side of the Aurora Municipal Center.

This annual event takes place during Pollinator Week, June 22 to 28, which is designed to celebrate the vital role pollinators play in our ecosystems, economies and agriculture. Enjoy fun activities, community projects, garden tours, learning experiences and much more. A selection of food trucks will also be on site. This all-ages event is free, and no registration is required.

Learn more about the Party for Pollinators event and other pollinator programming at AuroraGov.org/Pollinators.

This image of water flooding a living room parquet floor links to the Floodsmart website

Flood insurance provides extra layer of protection

Don't let drought fool you—flooding is still possible. Intense, short-lived storms often occur after dry spells, and hardened soil cannot absorb the water. Remember, homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage, so consider a separate policy through the federal National Flood Insurance Program, that is available to Aurora residents. Act fast, as there is a 30-day waiting period for coverage to begin. Visit FloodSmart.gov for more information.

This graphic of a portion of a keyboard with sticky notes and the words We want to hear from you links to an online form

Seeking business community feedback

The city of Aurora is proposing an ordinance for a Socioeconomic Impact Permit to address the clustering of high-risk businesses and support a healthy community. The Aurora City Council will consider this proposed ordinance at an upcoming regular council meeting in July, and the Aurora Business Advisory Board is requesting feedback from the business community on this proposal.

The proposed ordinance is based on the concept that high-risk businesses, when concentrated, promote unhealthy products and predatory services, drive crime and worsen community health, fuel cycles of blight and hinder reinvestment, and create perceptions of disorder and decline.

Businesses that are considered high-risk include liquor stores, pay day loans, vape stores, marijuana, rent to own, bail bonds, pawnshops, motels, and late-night bars in areas of elevated risk.

The goals of this ordinance are to prevent clustering of predatory retail, reduce competitive pressures or a "race to the bottom," incorporate place-based crime prevention, and encourage commercial reinvestment to create welcoming and healthy retail environments.

The proposed permitting would be attached to general business license of such businesses. Regulation includes primarily distance restrictions and some additional rules in areas of elevated risk.

For more details, view the Business Advisory Board’s June 2, 2026, townhall and forum: https://youtu.be/dMlbEKaDUxk

Submit feedback via this online form at https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/ac0Cp0fKdp

Paws and adopt

This image of a chihuahua links to the Aurora Animal Shelter adoptable animals webpage

Name: Fig

Gender: Spayed female

Breed: Chihuahua (smooth-coated mix)

Age: 1 year old

About Fig: This little lady is ready to trot herself right into your home. Fig will do best in a mature household where she can relax and settle in at her own pace. Fig loves going on walks and will stay by your side. She also loves the good things in life, like cheese treats, and is eager to learn more tricks if it means getting more of the snacks she enjoys!

This image of a domestic longhair links to the Aurora Animal Shelter adoptable animals webpage

Name: Mia

Gender: Spayed female

Breed: Domestic longhair

Age: 2 years old

About Mia: Mia arrived at the shelter with nursing kittens and went to foster, where she excelled as a mother. Now weaned, Mia is ready for her next chapter in life - a chapter where the attention can be on her! Once comfortable, Mia loves pets, lounging and sleeping. She is a quiet cat who will make a gentle companion to someone lucky.

Hot city jobs

This image of the Aurora Municipal Center contains words that say Work for the City of Aurora and links to job openings

If you're seeking a career that offers excitement and fulfillment, along with excellent benefits, explore openings at AuroraGov.org/Jobs.

Featured city of Aurora jobs:

Parks Worker: Perform various semi-skilled and skilled duties in the operation and maintenance of municipal park assets, including parks, grounds, open space, rights of way, athletic fields and commercial facilities, including all associated facility structures and buildings. The hiring rate for this position is $18 per hour.
Scada I & C Technician: Assist and lead installation, maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of the instrumentation and control, electronic, security, motor control and telemetry systems used to operate and monitor the Aurora Water System. The hiring range for this position is between $31.42 and $39.27 per hour.

Questions? Email careers@auroragov.org or call 303.739.7225.

Featured board and commission

This image of hands raised with words supporting the copy links to the city boards and commissions webpage

The Citizens Advisory Committee on Housing & Community Development plays a vital role in our city. This volunteer group makes recommendations to the City Council on how Aurora can best invest federal grant dollars to bring more affordable housing to the community.

Right now, this committee desperately needs new members to help carry out its critical mission.

Make your voice heard! To find out more and apply, visit AuroraGov.org/Boards.

IN THE NEWS

Aurora tees up $264 million project package for fire stations, libraries. Will voters go for it? - The Denver Post
Aurora council approves rental licensing program to tackle neighborhood blight - CBS Colorado
Aurora celebrates Juneteenth - AuroraTV

AuroraTV news anchors stand behind a desk in the studio

WATCH AURORA NOW

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Get weekly updates on road construction projects in Aurora

EVENTS

Council Member Town Meetings

Council members are eager to hear from residents and are committed to forums where those conversations can take place. Visit AuroraGov.org/TownMeetings to confirm meeting dates and locations, and find links to join virtual meetings. If you don't know your council ward, visit AuroraGov.org/PropertyInfo and look up your address.

Meet with Mayor Mike (Mike Coffman)

Saturday, July 18, 2 to 3:30 p.m., Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Ward I (Gianina Horton)

Thursday, June 25, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Hoffman Heights Library, 1298 Peoria St.

Ward II (Amy Wiles)

Saturday, Aug. 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m., The Reserve Community Clubhouse, 4875 Rome St.

Ward III (Ruben Medina)

Tuesday, Aug. 4, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway (rescheduled from Aug. 11)

Ward IV (Stephanie Hancock)

Thursday, July 9, 6 to 8 p.m., Noonan's Event Center, 13521 E. Iliff Ave.

Ward V (Angela Lawson)

Saturday, July 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Heather Gardens, 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way
Tuesday, July 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Central Recreation Center, 18150 E. Vassar Place

Ward VI (Françoise Bergan)

Wednesday, July 15, 6 to 8 p.m., City of Aurora Public Safety Training Center, 25950 E. Quincy Ave.

City Council Study Session

Monday, July 13 (start time varies based on agenda; go to AuroraGov.org/CouncilMeetings to learn more)

View online at AuroraTV.org, on Comcast Channels 8/880, or on the AuroraTV phone/streaming app. The Study Session will also be streamed live in the Paul Tauer City Council Chamber. Visit AuroraGov.org/CouncilMeetings for the agenda.

Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

City Council Regular Meeting

Monday, July 13, 6 p.m.

View in person at the Aurora Municipal Center or online at AuroraTV.org, on Comcast Channels 8/880 or the AuroraTV phone/streaming app. Visit AuroraGov.org/CouncilMeetings for the agenda. For details and deadlines for speaking on agenda items or for Public Invited to be Heard, go to AuroraGov.org/PublicComment.

Aurora Municipal Center, Paul Tauer City Council Chamber, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

"Innovation Unlimited 2026: African Business Conference"

Saturday, June 27, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Join the City of Aurora Office of International and Immigrant Affairs, Colorado and the African Chamber of Commerce Colorado USA for the "Innovation Unlimited 2026: African Business Conference." Register now to connect with local business leaders, partner organizations and city staff through informative panels and presentations designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs from Aurora’s African community. Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman will offer opening remarks, and a light breakfast will be provided. This event is free, but registration is required.

Registration: Tinyurl.com/OIIABusinessConference.

APS Professional Learning and Conference Center, 15771 E. First Ave.

Aurora First-Time Homebuyer Seminar

Seminar in English: Saturday, June 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Aurora Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Are you a potential first-time homebuyer, or do you know someone who is? The city offers first-time homebuyer seminars to help prospective homebuyers understand the home-buying process. Classes are offered monthly in English and Spanish. Registration is required by emailing auroraed@auroragov.org or calling 303.739.7900. Classes are also available online for a fee.

Learn more: AuroraGov.org/Housing

Aurora Fox Arts Center presents “Violet”

Through June 28

Experience live theater with the award-winning contemporary musical “Violet.” Presented by the Aurora Fox Arts Center and Phamaly Theatre Company, this powerful production follows a young woman’s transformative journey across the American South in search of healing, belonging and self-acceptance. Featuring a roots-inspired score by Jeanine Tesori and Brian Crawley, “Violet” is based on Doris Betts’ “The Ugliest Pilgrim” and blends heartfelt storytelling with folk, gospel and blues influences. Recommended for adults.

Aurora Fox Arts Center, 9900 E. Colfax Ave.

Information and tickets: AuroraFoxArtsCenter.org

Nomination Deadline for Community Spirit Awards
Tuesday, June 30, 5 p.m.
Community Spirit Awards recognize individuals, organizations and businesses who demonstrate outstanding leadership, volunteerism and dedication to serving our community. Questions? Email volunteer@auroragov.org.

More information: AuroraGov.org/CommunitySpiritAwards

City Furlough Day

Thursday, July 2

Most city facilities and operations will be closed, including municipal offices, court services, recreation centers and libraries, as a cost-saving measure. Essential services and emergency operations will remain operational.

More info: AuroraGov.org/Furloughs

Independence Day Closures

Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4

In observance of Independence Day, some city facilities will be closed or operating on adjusted hours Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4. For a complete list of facility closures and holiday hours, visit AuroraGov.org.

City of Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular

Saturday, July 4, 6 to 10 p.m.

Celebrate Independence Day at Aurora’s 4th of July Spectacular. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. with live performances and food trucks serving up tasty bites all evening long. The fireworks display will start at approximately 9:30 p.m. and will last 30 minutes. Bring family, friends, lawn chairs and blankets and join us for this annual celebration.

Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway

More information: AuroraGov.org/Events

"The Local Cost of Freedom" exhibit
Through July 11

The Aurora History Museum and Historic Sites commemorate 150 years of Colorado statehood and 250 years of an independent United States with an exhibit honoring Aurora service members who gave their lives in defense of our freedoms. “The Local Cost of Freedom: Aurora’s Fallen in the Sesquisemiquincentennial Story” connects these local stories to the broader American experience, honoring their sacrifice while inviting reflection and remembrance.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: AuroraMuseum.org

Music at the Movies

July 15 and 29, 5 p.m.

Music at the Movies will offer free concerts followed by movies under the stars. Join the city of Aurora’s Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department and Aurora Public Library at various city of Aurora community parks for another cinematic lineup of treasured classics and new favorites.

Wednesday, July 15, Settler's Park, 14800 E. Walsh Drive
Music: Little Moses Jones I Movie: "Hamilton" sing-a-long (for 150/250, PG-13)
Food trucks: Talavera Cocina, Kona Ice
Wednesday, July 29, Meadowood Park, 3054 S. Laredo St.
Music: Unindicted Co-conspirators I Movie: "The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants" (PG)
Food trucks: Disco Dogz, Kona Ice

More information: AuroraGov.org/MusicAtTheMovies

13th Avenue Multimodal Corridor Design and Ward I Park Improvements Open House

Thursday, July 16, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Join us for an open house to enjoy free ice cream and provide input on projects to make mobility safer and improve parks along and near the 13th Avenue corridor.

Vaughn Elementary School, 1155 Vaughn St.

Learn more about the 13th Avenue mobility project: EngageAurora.org/13th

Learn more about the Ward I park improvements: EngageAurora.org/WardOneParks

Signature Park Public Meeting No. 3

Thursday, July 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Review the preferred master plan, learn about key features and provide feedback to help us refine the park's vision.

Central Library, 14949 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: EngageAurora.org/SignaturePark

"Mosaic of Cultures: Aurora’s Filipino Community" exhibit

Through April 2027

The Aurora History Museum and the city’s Office of International and Immigrant Affairs celebrate Aurora’s vibrant Filipino community with the new exhibition “Mosaic of Cultures: Aurora’s Filipino Community.” The exhibit highlights the stories of individuals, business owners and their cultural traditions and history, and features cultural objects provided by community members, archival images, interviews and immersive elements to bring the essence of the Philippines to life, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about and appreciate this community’s cultural heritage.

Aurora History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway

Learn more: AuroraMuseum.org

Have a comment, question, or need our assistance? Contact Access Aurora online, at 303.739.7000, or via iOS or Android app.

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This image of the city of Aurora seal links to the AuroraGov website

This newsletter is produced by the city's Communications and Marketing Department

Questions?

Email communications@auroragov.org

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