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Dear Neighbors,
Spring showers bring May flowers, and here at District 5 we are ready to start welcoming the beginning of summer. We wanted to extended a heartfelt thank you the over 100 volunteers who helped us on Spring Parks Cleanup Day! It was a massive success and now we look to the future. There are several events right around the corner that we want you to be aware of including our Uinta Way Traffic Study Virtual Data Collection meeting on May 16. We hope to see you there!
Moreover, we're also slowly making the transition to the new District 5. We'll be welcoming the Cherry Creek and Country Club neighborhoods on July 17th, which is Inauguration Day. Over the next few months we'll be adding information related to these neighborhoods on our website and newsletter. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions as we work towards this transition!
Please check our social media and website for updates on all things happening around District 5. And as always, don't hesitate to reach out to our office if there is anything we can do to assist you!
Gratefully,
Councilwoman, Amanda Sawyer
District 5
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GENERAL INQUIRIES
DenverCouncil5@denvergov.org
720-337-5555
Visit our website for useful information and helpful links!
LOCATION
City and County Building
1437 Bannock St., Room 451
Denver, CO 80202
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OFFICE HOURS
Below are the dates and times in which you can request to speak to Councilwoman Sawyer personally. We will alternate virtual and in-person to accommodate your preference:
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Wednesday, May 17, from 3:30 to 5:30PM
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Thursday, May 25 from 10:30AM to 12:30PM at Clayton Members Club
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Thursday, May 30, from 1:00 to 3:00PM
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Thursday, June 8, from 11:00AM to 1:00PM at Windsor Gardens
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Thursday, June 15, from 11:00AM to 1:00PM
Contact our office to schedule an appointment if another time works better for you!
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Spring Parks Clean Up Day
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who joined us for the Spring Park Cleanup Day! It was a tremendous success, with an unprecedented turnout of over 100 people coming together to make our parks shine. Thanks to your hard work and dedication, our community's outdoor spaces have already undergone a stunning transformation.
As we continue to prioritize the upkeep of our parks, we want to remind everyone that we host these cleanup events twice a year. Fall Parks Clean Up Day is currently scheduled for October 1st 2023, barring any unforeseen weather. You can sign up for the clean up by clicking the button below! Once again, a big thank you to everyone in District 5 for your continued support!
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Right-of-Way News
Trader Joes
The District 5 Council Office is continuing its engagement with Trader Joe’s at 8th and Colorado, Community Planning and Development (CPD), and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI). Currently, inspectors from CPD and Right-of-Way inspectors from DOTI are ensuring Trader Joe’s is in compliance with their permit and the noise ordinance, in allowing vehicles to enter and exit the alley and removing their outside storage.
Quality Italian
Right-of-Way Inspectors from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) have instructed Quality Italian to remove their below curb outside structure to be removed by May 16. The current structure is encroaching the travel lane and is an ongoing safety hazard to the community. DOTI leadership and DOTI staff are working to find consensus on next steps. Quality Italian may apply for a new permit to occupy the City Right-of-Way. Stay tuned as this develops.
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Jackson Street Strom Water Project Updates
We are excited to announce that the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) has completed the design for the second phase of the Jackson Street Storm Drain Project. This project aims to provide a crucial link between the lower and upper Montclair Basin systems for managing storm water and improving flood mitigation during heavy rainstorms.
Residents in areas impacted by significant and persistent flooding, including streets east and west of Colorado Blvd between Colfax Avenue and E. 12th Avenue and Hale Parkway, will benefit from this project.
Phase 2 of the project will improve capacity to manage storm water flows coming from the upstream portion of the Montclair Basin and under Hale Parkway. It will begin at Jackson Street and E. 14th Avenue, cross under Colorado Boulevard, and proceed along Colorado Boulevard south to E. 13th Avenue, where Phase 2 construction will end.
Construction for Phase 2 is expected to begin in early Fall 2023, following a public meeting that will be held prior to the start of construction. After the completion of Phase 2, work on Phase 3 will proceed east to Ash Street and south on Ash Street to Hale Parkway, where the project will culminate.
We understand that construction projects can sometimes cause inconvenience to residents, but the benefits of this project are essential to reducing flooding in our neighborhoods. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to improve the storm water infrastructure in the area.
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Uinta Way Traffic Study
Our office is once again partnering with local neighborhood organizations and traffic engineering firm Fehr and Peers to conduct another traffic study in District 5. The purpose of these studies is to identify potential safety upgrades to busy streets in the District. This year we've identified Uinta Way from Lowry Blvd to 11th Ave. as the area we'll focus on.
We kicked off this study with a virtual town hall.
Thanks to the over 100 people who took the Uinta Way Traffic Study survey! The virtual data collection meeting is on May 16 at 6:00 p.m. Join us to review the survey data as well as the traffic and parking counts taken, and see if there is anything we missed before solutions are proposed.
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Montclair ADU Survey Data Results
Councilwoman Sawyer facilitated a conversation with the community to consider putting forward legislation to ease the access for homeowners in the construction of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) throughout the Montclair neighborhood, including parts of Mayfair.
The District 5 Council Office stated there needed to be a clear mandate from the community before moving forward. That mandate was set by the Council Office at 60% support from the neighborhood. The statistically valid survey showed a lack of support for this proposed legislative rezoning. Therefore, Councilwoman Sawyer will not be pursuing this further. The results of the community survey can be found here.
If you are interested in building an ADU, you still can apply to rezone your individual property!
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2023 Paving Program for District 5
DOTI's District 5 2023 paving plan has been released! In the coming months, the primary focus will be on repaving Monaco and Quebec, which are larger streets that require significant attention. While these projects will take some time, the City is fully committed to improving the quality of our roads for the benefit of our residents.
DOTI has also planned construction work on many residential streets, and we will keep you updated if there are any road closures that may affect your daily commute. Our ultimate aim is to advocate for you to have a safe and smooth driving experience for everyone in the community, and we are working hard to achieve that goal.
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Ross Cherry Creek Library Update
We wanted to provide you with an update on the library's construction progress. Both structural evaluations concluded that there were structural needs that must be addressed. None are concerning enough to close the facility permanently.
The closure of the branch has been a precaution by the City while those evaluations were underway and until there could be conclusive engineering opinions made about the facility. However, as of last week, both engineers have confirmed that the branch can be reopened, is safe for the occupants, and structural concerns/cracks will be monitored. Design solutions will be initiated to mitigate and fully fix the structural repairs that are needed, and DPL is actively preparing for the reopening.
DOTI is currently awaiting a proposal from Martin Martin (Structural Engineering Firm) for these full design services. They anticipate being able to contract this firm and begin the design phase in early June, once the task order is executed. The library is safe to remain open during the design phase and the engineering team will assemble drawings to outline whatever structural mitigation measures are needed to repair the cracks.
The construction schedule and impacts for this work are unknown at this time until the design can be completed. They hope that the construction phase will be as minimally intrusive and impactful to branch operations as it can be. They do not yet know the costs of this effort until the design phase can be completed and mitigation measures identified. A reopening date has not yet been identified. Stay tuned for updates as they become available.
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Changes to Pocketgov.org
We’ve heard you loud and clear: You want city services and information that are more accessible. Denver's Online Services Hub is the solution. Got a question, ask the City staff! See something that needs fixing? Report an Issue! Head over to www.denvergov.org/Online-Services-Hub to access these services and see the new changes that have taken place.
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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!
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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 please email us denvercouncil5@denvergov.org or stay tuned for our next sign distribution event.
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Zoning & Hearing Information | |
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Property Relief Program and Protests
Real property valuations for nine counties in the Denver metropolitan area have been announced, with residential properties experiencing a value increase of 35-45%.
Colorado law requires real property to be revalued every two years, based on transactions and market conditions between January 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022. Property owners will receive notices of valuation by May 1, 2023, and can file appeals between May 1 and June 8, 2023. Assessors offer online appeal applications, and written filings can be submitted via mail or drop-off.
The Department of Finance understands what a significant percentage change some of our homeowners and business owners may face in value. They do not know yet what property taxes will be and while they work hard to do a thorough assessment, they want property owners to take a close look at what they receive and tell them if they believe the department didn't get their value right.
You can file a protest or apply for the property tax relief program by clicking on the appropriate buttons below.
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Changes to Safe Outdoor Spaces Rules Proposed
Community Planning and Development (CPD) has brought changes to the Safe Outdoor Spaces (SOS) program. They are proposing to change SOS from a temporary use brought on as a result of limited shelter space from COVID-19 regulations to a permanent temporary use.
I have not voted to support these sites because I believe housing, even temporary, requires at least a roof and a door. Additionally, now that the COVID emergency order has been lifted, Denver has enough shelter space for those seeking it.
Regardless of my opinion, we'd like you to let CPD know what you think about this! Don't forget to email us about your thoughts as well.
On June 5 we will hold a hearing at Council on whether or not to adopt these changes into Denver legislation. It is important that you make your voice heard! Sign up for public comment by clicking on the link below. Keep in mind that must sign up starting at 3:00 p.m. on the day of the hearing. The sign-up period ends at 5:30 p.m.
Learn more about the program here.
Read the specific changes to the Zoning Code here.
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ADUs in Denver Project - Public Review Draft Now Available
Community Planning and Development has released a public review draft of the proposed changes, which is now available for review and comment, along with an updated strategy report. You can learn more about the public input Denverites provided, including comments on the draft strategy report, in the feedback summary.
Some highlights in the updated strategy report include:
- Rules that are responsive to the needs of different neighborhoods, with maximum flexibility in urban neighborhoods
- Allowing ADUs as accessory to duplexes, row houses and town houses as a detached structure
- Allowing a more usable second story deck on a detached ADU when the deck would face a public alley
You can learn more by:
On June 5 we will hold a public hearing on whether or not to adopt these changes into Denver legislation. It is important that you make your voice heard! Sign up for public comment by clicking on the link below. Keep in mind that must sign up from 3:00 p.m. on the day of the hearing. The sign-up period ends at 5:30 p.m.
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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.
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Denver Fire Department's Youth Career Exploration Camp
The Denver Fire Department is happy to share with you that this summer we will be having our Youth Career Exploration Camp. Their application process is now open.
Participating in their camp is an excellent opportunity that allows our youth to learn, experience, and recognize the possibilities of a future career as a Denver Firefighter. Campers will participate in hands-on simulated emergency fire and rescue situations, with an opportunity to earn First Aid and CPR certificates.
It is the mission of our instructors to instill participants with team building and leadership skills, along with valuable life lessons, while having fun! Our hope is to inspire these participants to consider working as a Denver Firefighter after their high school and college careers.
The camp will take place on Mon., June 5 - Wed., June 7 from 9a to 2p at the Rocky Mountain Fire Academy, located at 5440 Roslyn, Building F., Denver, CO 80216.
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DOTI Rolls-out 20MPH Speed Limit on all Local Streets
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) will be installing new 20mph signs on local streets citywide. The goal is to promote safety and create a culture of safety within our neighborhoods where people are more likely to walk and bike. They also plan to reduce the overall number of signs out now and post gateway signs at the entrance of Denver, stating the speed limit on local roads is 20 mph.
To further promote this initiative, we've created yard signs for residents to post, reminding drivers to slow down. Please click here to request yard signs
As DOTI distributes these signs, please keep in mind that the 20mph speed limit only applies to local and residential streets, with no stripes or centerlines. Our goal is for this initiative to help us create safer streets in Denver.
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Denver CASA Volunteer Opportunity
Looking for an impactful volunteer opportunity in your own community? CASAs (Court Appointed Special Advocates) advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Denver CASA will be hosting a CASA 101 on Wednesday, May 24th at 5:30PM at 1325 S. Colorado Blvd Suite B402 to show how we can change a child’s story together.
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Community Events & Meetings | |
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Get ready to experience Denver like never before!
Mark your calendars for:
- May 14
- June 4
- July 9
- August 6
With 3 miles of car-free streets, you can walk, bike, skate, or scoot through some of Denver's most colorful neighborhoods!
Enjoy food, art, and entertainment from local businesses and communities along the way. Bring your family and friends for a day of fun in the sun while supporting local businesses!
Find more info here: https://www.vivastreetsdenver.com/
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LCMA: Concert & Movie Night in the Park | |
June 2 @ 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Come to Sunset Park for a fun family night in the park! Starting at 5:30, enjoy live music from Tunisia. They’ll play until about 8:00, and then the big inflatable movie screen will go up! As soon as it’s dark enough, we’ll enjoy an outdoor screening of Strange World. There’ll also be a food truck on site with meals available to purchase, so you don’t have to do anything but bring your picnic blanket!
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Smash In The Square Festival | |
June 10th & 11th 10am - 5pm
Sponsored by Cherry Creek North, our 2023 Smash Fine Arts Festivals will be hosted in the premier, pristine Fillmore Plaza - the center/heart of and gateway into the Cherry Creek North District - a world renowned and reputable art/cultural venue (Fillmore St. between 1st & 2nd Ave. - 105 Fillmore Street, Denver CO 80206) amidst affluent luxury condominiums, shops, and restaurants.
This is our 5th straight year in the CCN District - a hot spot nationwide for top shelf art and affluent clientele. Smash in the Square is a highly selective, classy boutique outdoor fine-art exhibit showcasing top-tier national artists, with live violin, piano, and acoustic guitar music both days of the weekend + fine catering. Join us for an experience that will delight the exquisite artisan in you!
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The Lowry Foundation Presents: | |
Saturday, May 20, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Free Bike Tune-Up Rally at the Hangar Club
7600 E 1st Pl, Denver, CO 80230
The Lowry Foundation presents this year's Bike Tune-Up Rally at the soon to open Hangar Club. Bring your bike for a free spring tune-up by HopeCycle and prepare for summer riding! While you wait, enjoy free ice cream sponsored by the Lowry Master Community Association (LCMA), a food truck, and business vendors sprinkled about. Bring an old bikes to donate and/or check out the used bikes for sale. For more information visit, lowryfoundation.org or call 303-344-0481.
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Registered Neighborhood Organizations | |
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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.
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