District 5 News

Take Our Annual Constituent Feedback Survey

Each fall, my office mails a survey to District 5 residents requesting your feedback to ensure that I am addressing the issues of concern in our neighborhoods. By comparing new data to responses we’ve received over the past several years, this feedback helps us track trends in community sentiment which is valuable information for my staff and I as we create our annual District 5 work plan. This feedback also dictates how we advocate for budget and projects within Council District 5 the following year.

2023-24 survey results showed that your top three concerns were crime, traffic and affordable housing. Here are a few of the initiatives we worked on in 2023-2024 in response to District 5 resident feedback:

• Beautified District 5 neighborhoods by hosting three volunteering initiatives that cleaned city-owned parks and open spaces and re-painted over 30 bus stop benches.
• Created "District 5 Projects Night" to connect District 5 residents with over 20 city agencies and community partners.
• Funded a traffic study of Exposition Avenue between Quebec Street and Leetsdale Drive, including the Monaco Parkway triangle intersection to design traffic calming measures for the City to install.
• Implemented the Near Southeast Area Plan through a legislative rezoning to direct future development along the Leetsdale corridor and to protect naturally occurring affordable housing in our neighborhoods.
• Partnered with data analysts from the Denver Police Department to overlay crime heat maps with street lighting to identify gaps and request additional lighting where it could be helpful in deterring crime.
• Re-established and chaired the Charter Review Committee to help address inconsistencies in our Charter.
• Sponsored a legislative rezoning of the Hale statistical neighborhood to allow for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Now it's time to share your priorities for 2024-2025! You should receive a postcard in late August or early September with a QR code linking to the annual survey. In case you missed it, you can access the survey at https://bit.ly/2024D5Survey or by holding the camera of your phone over the QR code below, which will take you to the survey. Please fill out our Constituent Feedback Survey by Dec. 31^st, 2024. Thank you for your engagement and partnership as my office works to address issues of concern in our community!

Business License Hearing Fund

We know that our residents often want to engage with new liquor or marijuana-based businesses opening in our neighborhoods. RNO's are excellent advocates to help address concerns, but that can be expensive. Denver can help! Applications are now open for the third round of the Business License Hearing Fund. Qualifying applicants, including Registered Neighborhood Organizations, who participated in a needs and desires hearing for certain types of licenses between Oct. 25, 2023, and Sept. 30, 2014, can get reimbursed for legal costs related to the hearing. Applications open Sept. 1 and the deadline to apply is Sept. 30. Learn more at https://bit.ly/3WgYGwx

Citywide Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

As part of Denver's ongoing effort to expand housing availability and choice, the city launched the Citywide ADUs project in March. Following recommendations from Blueprint Denver, Denver's land use and transportation plan, this project proposes to update the Denver Zoning Code, zoning map, and Former Chapter 59 zoning to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in all residential areas of the City.

A public review draft of proposed changes is now available for public review and comment through Thursday, August 21, 2024.

There will be a virtual townhall on August 21, 2024 at 6:00 P.M.

Trash Cart Exchange Event

The Solid Waste Department is hosting a trash cart exchange event on Saturday, August 17, 2024, between 8:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M. at the Cherry Creek Transfer Station (7301 E. Jewell Avenue, Denver, CO 80231). 

This event is only for trash cart exchanges.

The Cart Maintenance Facility (located at 2013 S. Osage Street) is open Monday - Friday 8:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. for all cart exchanges, including recycling and compost carts. Compost cart rollout is being scheduled by Trash District, and we expect residents of Council District 5 to receive our carts in 2025. Please wait for notification of your compost delivery or check Denvergov.org for additional information. 

For any additional requests, please visit www.denvergov.org/trash, chat with Sunny, or text your request to HEY311 (439311).

Join us for Fall Community Clean-up Day!

My office will be hosting a Community Clean-up Day of parks, open spaces, and bus stops benches on October 6, 2024, from 8:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. Meet at the Montclair Rec Center to grab breakfast, coffee, and meet Councilwoman Sawyer!

The parks and open spaces being cleaned on October 6 are:

• 6th Avenue Parkway (Colorado Blvd to Monaco Pkwy)
• City of Ulaanbaatar Park
• Cranmer Park
• Crescent Park
• Crestmoor Park
• Jacobs Park
• James N Manley Park
• Lowry Sports Park
• Monaco Pkwy (E Colfax to 6th Ave)
• Pulaski Park

The bus stops that will be re-painted are:

• N Bound - Colorado Blvd & 14th Ave
• N Bound - Colorado Blvd & 6th Ave
• S Bound - Monaco Pkwy & 6th Ave
• S Bound - S Steele St & Ellsworth Ave
• E Bound - 6th Ave & Lafayette St
• E Bound - 11th Ave & Willow St
• E Bound - 11th Ave & Spruce Ct
• E Bound - Colfax Ave & Bellaire St
• E Bound - Colfax Ave & Cherry St
• E Bound - Colfax Ave & Monaco Pkwy
• W Bound - 1st Ave & University Blvd
• W Bound - Monaco Pkwy & 6th Ave
• W Bound - 1st Ave & University Blvd
• W Bound - 6th Ave & Quebec St
• W Bound - Mississippi Ave & S Oneida St
• W Bound - Mississippi Ave & S Valentia St

Museum of Denver

Exciting things are happening! You may have seen recent stories in the news about Mayor Johnston wanting to have a Denver history museum on the second floor of the McNichols building. As you know, the Museum of Denver (MOD) is very interested in occupying part of the McNichols building. They have submitted information to the city in the hope that the MOD will be selected, and the District 5 Council Office has provided a letter of support. We will know more later this summer and will keep you updated.

Here's what you can do to help:

• Help raise awareness and encourage people to engage with the MOD:
• Are you a Blue Bear or a Blue Horse Denverite? Take the Blue Bear vs Blue Horse poll at the bottom of our homepage and ask your friends to take it too!
• Follow the Museum of Denver - and ask your friends to follow - (@museumofdenver) and on Facebook
• Donate to the Museum of Denver. They need to raise money in order to hire staff and create exhibits. 
• Volunteer to help spread the word, fundraise, and more

Mission: The Museum of Denver will gather, protect, honor and share the stories from yesterday and today that shape our city.

Vision: The Museum of Denver is an educational asset that enriches our community by informing and inspiring visitors of all ages to imagine and create Denver’s future. 

The Museum of Denver Values:

• Hearing everyone’s stories in community conversation.
• Being a safe and welcoming space.
• Cultivating curiosity, perspective, and inclusion.
• Equity in the stories we tell, the audiences we serve, and the partnerships we build.

Additionally, the Museum of Denver team is partnering with the state’s America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission to host two public meetings where community members can talk about how they’d like to commemorate and/or celebrate our state’s “Sesquisemiquincentennial” - the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the 150th anniversary of Colorado becoming a state. You can learn more here: https://www.historycolorado.org/colorado-150.

Two community meetings will be held:

• 8/22/24 3-5:00 @ Commons on Champa (1245 Champa)
• 9/4/24 6-7:00 @ Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Lead Reduction Program Continues in the Hale Neighborhood

Work started in the Hale neighborhood in early May, with replacements beginning in mid-June. The next work area in D5 is the Montclair neighborhood. Currently, we expect preliminary work to start in that area at the beginning of August, and replacements are slated to begin in the middle of September.

In other exciting news, the Lead Reduction Program recently hit a big milestone, with 25,000 lead service line replacements thanks, in part, to federal funding received in 2022, which helped accelerate the replacement work.

Have questions? Denver Water offers community presentations by request for registered neighborhood organizations, business districts or other neighbors interested in hearing more about the Lead Reduction Program.  They also have a subscriber newsletter specific to the program and provide updates on Nextdoor as needed.

Neighbors can contact Denver Water Customer Care at 303-893-2444 with questions. 

Schlessman Public Library Needs Your Help!

One of DPL's most popular branch libraries is in need of renovations! Though the renovation was initially funded in 2017 through a city bond, increased construction and labor costs and inflation require additional funding to complete the project.

The renovations will include an improved community room on the first level, a brand-new teen space, a larger children's library, and enhancements throughout the library that make spaces easier to access and use. To find more information visit dplfriends.org/schlessman



Fundraising Goal: $600,000

Ellsworth Ave. Storm System Phase 2 Status Update 

Phase 1 of the Ellsworth Storm project is complete. The project began in August

2021 at the intersection of Steele St and Ellsworth Ave. This work required

extensive relocation of underground utilities. Major work was performed in the

Ellsworth corridor to update and replace the storm sewer lines that flow down

Ellsworth Ave and connect to Steele St. Green Infrastructure planters were

placed on all corners of the Adams St and Ellsworth Ave intersection and the NE

corner of the Cook St and Ellsworth Ave intersection. Phase 1 ended just west of

Madison St on Ellsworth Ave.

Phase 2

The work on Phase 2 is similar to Phase 1 however there will be no planters or

bulb outs. Ellsworth will be regraded to eliminate flat areas that currently

experience ponding and icing. Additionally, underground storage and multiple

inlets will be added throughout Ellsworth Ave to intercept some of the flow.

Extensive Utility Relocations

The utility relocations on this project are extensive. Throughout 2023, residents

and businesses saw utility contractors working on relocating their lines in

preparation for the storm project.

Schedule

The design of Phase 2 of the Ellsworth Storm project is complete. Pending

funding availability, construction is expected to begin late-2024.

DATE CHANGE: Exposition Traffic Study Virtual Recommendations Meeting in September

The recommendations meeting has been rescheduled for September 24, 2024 at 6:00 P.M. via Zoom due to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure needing to review additional traffic calming improvements to the corridor.

Our office is working with the Winston Downs Community Association, residents, and Denver's Department of Transportation and Infrastructure to improve Exposition Avenue from Leetsdale Drive to Quebec Street including the Monaco Parkway & Leetsdale Drive intersection. This study will identify opportunities to calm traffic on Exposition Avenue and to improve crossings for people walking and biking.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on May 21st for the virtual data collection meeting. Please mark your calendars for September 24 at 6:00 P.M. via Zoom where we will be hosting our virtual recommendation meeting.

Phases 3 and 7 of Denver Water’s Pipe Replacement Project on East Colfax Avenue

Next week, the crew will work on the following segment of East Colfax Avenue:

• Fillmore Street to Milwaukee Street

The typical work schedule on the project will continue to be Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Weekend work may be required throughout the project.

Project details

Denver Water will replace nearly 5 miles of aging pipe along East Colfax Avenue, between Broadway and Yosemite Street, working in two- to three-block segments at a time. The entire project should be complete by the end of 2024.

Local access to residences and businesses will be maintained throughout the project.

Construction schedules are subject to change due to weather and may be altered to accommodate major events in Denver.

Commuters should expect delays in this area. For more information or to sign up to receive updates, we encourage folks to visit denverwater.org/Colfax.

Denver Water and RTD are coordinating to minimize impacts to bus routes throughout the project. For more information about bus routes, visit RTD Service Alerts.

The pipe replacement work is taking place in advance of the upcoming East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit project, which is being led by the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, in partnership with RTD, Colorado Department of Transportation, the Federal Transit Authority and the City of Aurora.

Lead service line replacements

Denver Water cares about public health and will replace any customer-owned lead service line with a copper water line, at no direct charge to the customer, when discovered during a project. Replacements are coordinated with the property owner on a one-on-one basis.

Project resources

• Grant opportunities and other business resources: denvergov.org/DEDO
• Denver Water Customer Care (Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.): 303-893-2444
• After hours or emergencies: 303-628-6801
• Project website: denverwater.org/Colfax
• Project email address: WaterUDoing@denverwater.org
• Water Outage FAQs
• Street Restoration FAQs
• Colfax BRT project website: denvergov.org/ColfaxBRT

Working hours are typically Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 8:30 p.m. Some night or weekend work may be required.

Alameda Avenue Concepts for Improvements

The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is leading a corridor study of Alameda Avenue in partnership with the City and County of Denver. The Alameda Corridor Plan recommends Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in the coming years along Alameda. This recommendation builds upon public feedback from Phase 1 of the study and previous efforts to improve the future of transit in the region. Bus rapid transit is more than just transit system upgrades, but a solution that addresses multimodal issues and enhances mobility along Alameda Avenue. Take a look at the important features of how bus rapid transit can work in a variety of settings. These components may also be used as short-term improvements at key locations.

Jackson Street Storm Drain Project Update

STATUS

Curb planters are in along Colorado Blvd., awaiting irrigation installation and plantings which will start in a couple of weeks. Planter work on E. 13th Ave. starts soon. The detention pond at E. 14th Ave. and Colorado Blvd. is now complete. Watch for sidewalk work / repair in sections along E. 14th Ave. 

TRAVEL + PEDESTRIAN IMPACTS

That single lane along NB Colorado Blvd. on the east side — between E. 13th Ave. and E. 14th Ave. continues to be closed for the safety of our crews working along Colorado Blvd. Because of that lane closure, the right-hand turn lane on E. 13th Ave. onto NB Colorado Blvd. is also closed. However, right-hand turns are permitted. The right-hand turn lane at E. 14th Ave. / Colorado Blvd. is closed starting at Harrison—again, for the safety of crews—as sidewalk work begins there. Right-hand turns onto Colorado Blvd. from E. 14th Ave. are permitted.

The sidewalk on the north side of E. 13th Ave. is closed until planter and irrigation work is complete. The sidewalk closure around the corner from that — NB on the east side of Colorado Blvd.— is still in place, as is the sidewalk closure at the SE corner of Colorado Blvd. and E. 14th Ave.

BE CAREFUL!

When you are out and about near the site, please be aware of continuing work and the truck traffic it brings.

NEED TO REACH US?

Just email, or call / text the project hotline—they reply very quickly. The project website also has updated project details: Bit.ly/JSStorm

Art Drop Day is back!

This year, I am excited to say that I will be a hiding a blanket that I hand-knitted somewhere in District 5. Stay tuned to my social media channels on September 3rd for clues on where I have hidden it!

Originally started in Provo, Utah by artist Jake Parker, Art Drop Day is a worldwide celebration that connects communities by creating bonds between strangers through the act of sharing art. On the first Tuesday of each September, creators "drop" their works around town to surprise and delight art lovers, sharing clues on social media using #ArtDropDenver2024 and #ArtDropDay to aid in the search.

With support from Denver Arts & Venues, Denver has been celebrating Art Drop Day since 2017. More than 2,000 art pieces have been hidden around the city for discovery, including sculpture, music, pottery, fiber arts, metal works, jewelry, photography, prints, books, paintings, and even concert and theatre tickets. The stories of joy and connection shared on that Tuesday are inspiring, and a 4,700-person community has formed where makers and lovers of art engage all year long.

Follow #ArtDropDenver2024 and #ArtDropDay on social media plus join the Art Drop Denver Facebook group for clues to where you can find hidden artwork throughout Denver.

Reminder - Help Us Spot Neighborhood Issues During 311 Thursdays

We're asking District 5 residents to call in an issue, problem, or complaint every Thursday in 2024! Is there a pothole on your street? Graffiti on an electrical box or building? Tall weeds or overgrown vegetation in your neighborhood? An intersection that needs improvements? Please report to 311! 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

Brian Roecker

Hi, Council District, 5! My name is Brian Roecker, and I am an Engineer Supervisor for Street Maintenance within DOTI. For several years I have been the primary contact for paving inquiries for City Council. Our goal is to inform City Council of our current and long-term paving operations, and to be an active partner in addressing concerns that come to and from the council office. I have been with Street Maintenance for 18 years, and just celebrated my 25^th anniversary with the City.

I am a Denver native, have lived in the area my entire life, and come from a family who helped pioneer the state. I grew up in the northern suburbs of Denver, attended college in Golden at the Colorado School of Mines, and a few years after graduating started my journey with the City. I worked in delivering projects under the City Traffic Engineer and for our Wastewater Department before coming to Street Maintenance. I love spending time with my wife and kids traveling around our great state, engaging in local activities, volunteering, and rooting for all the home teams.

If you have questions or concerns related to street maintenance in your community, please reach out to Councilmember Sawyer's office at DenverCouncil5@denvergov.org, and we will work together to respond to your input.

Small Business Spotlight

America Ninja Adventure Park

Did you know that District 5 is home to a new indoor Ninja Warrior Park, on Leetsdale? Inspired by the NBC’s popular TV show American Ninja Warrior heading into its 16th season, this one-of-a-kind adventure park experience includes truss obstacles such as Monkey Swings, Spider Walls, Tilting Logs, Floating Bridges and of course the iconic WARPED WALL™. In addition to the truss obstacles, there's a 10,000 + square foot . inflatable obstacle course and challenge area, and a multi-level soft play area for our guests ages 8 and under. The revolutionary adventure park combines fitness and fun, providing participants an opportunity to master their ninja skills.



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

Video Recap

You may have seen the short, informational video clips Councilwoman Sawyer has recorded in an effort to provide transparency and to better connect the People to their government. Watch clips below!

WATCH: Register for DenverTrack to prevent auto theft!

WATCH: Learn how to request a photo radar van!

WATCH: Street sweeping season is here!

WATCH: DPD shares some driving tips!

WATCH: Thank you at everyone who joined us to clean bus stops in District 5!

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 three open re-zonings requests in District 5

• 2500 E 1st Avenue (Cherry Creek West) was filed on May 31, 2024. A Planning Board hearing was held on August 7, 2024, which you can watch it by clicking here. This proposed re-zoning was at City Council's Land Use, Transportation, and Infrastructure Committee on August 13, 2024, which you can watch by clicking here.
• 10353 E. Mississippi Avenue was filed on June 7, 2024. Planning Board hearing is TBD.
• 1401 Fairfax Street was filed on June 27, 2024. Planning Board hearing is TBD.

Upcoming public hearings 

*dates are subject to change

August 19

• No public hearings scheduled.

August 26

• 641 S Pearl Street

September 2

• No public hearings scheduled

September 9

• 959 & 971 S Wolff Street
• DC/D11 Metro District

September 16

• 4050 N Colorado Boulevard
• 3801 E Florida Avenue
• 1920 S King Street

September 23

• DURA Welton Corridor URP Amendment
• 2500 E 1st Avenue

September 30

• 12033 E 38th Avenue

Citywide News

E-bike Rebates are back!

A limited number of e-bike rebate vouchers are available for Denver residents every other month. The rebate voucher is a point-of-sale rebate applied to the price of an e-bike or e-cargo bike from a participating bike shop. This means the rebate amount is deducted from the price of the bike when you buy it. You don't have to submit a receipt and get reimbursed after the purchase. The city awards vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis. Denver's e-bike rebate voucher cannot be stacked with the State of Colorado tax credit.

E-bike release dates for the remainder of 2024:

• Tuesday, August 27
• Tuesday, October 29

For E-bike rebates are returning on August 27! Save up to $300 off an e-bike or $500 off an e-cargo bike. Residents who qualify for the income-qualified rebates save up to $1,400! Learn how to get a rebate at: denvergov.org/ebikes

Denver Animal Shelter partners to 'Clear the Shelters'

Help Denver Animal Shelter (DAS) ‘Clear the Shelters’ during this annual, national event. Through August, DAS is offering significantly reduced adoption fees as part of Clear the Shelters, a national pet adoption and donation campaign.

The event teams up NBC/Telemundo television stations with local animal shelters and rescues to help find loving homes for animals and raise critical funds to support their work.

All this month, you’ll pay just $25 for all dogs and cats over 1 year old. Regular adoption prices at DAS are $150 for adult dogs and $95 for adult cats. Adoptions include spay/neuter surgery, microchip, vaccines, and a one-year license.

Over 1,878 dogs and cats have already found loving homes at DAS this year and about 69 dogs and 26 cats are currently available for adoption. Another approximately 100 dogs and cats are featured in our lost pets section and may eventually come up for adoption. Check our website for a wide choice of your future furry friends!

One animal that may be a medal contender for your heart is Grayson, ID#389780. He’s a handsome 4-year-old German shepherd mix, sweet and gentle, who’d do best in a home with older kids over 10 years. He’s been at the shelter since July 12.

Also, you might consider Flip Flop, ID#403589. In a strong field of competitors, the 5-year-old American pit bull mix is energetic, goofy and sweet. He lives to play but can also be a champion cuddler. He’s been at DAS since July 1.

If a cat is more your speed, meet Mimsy, ID#404751. She’s a 4-year-old tortie who doesn’t believe in competition. She’d prefer to be the only cat in the home. She’s a beauty who’s a bit quirky with a strong personality. She’s been at the shelter since July 22.

Clear the Shelters has helped more than 1-million pets find new homes since 2015. Help support homeless animals at home by donating to DAS here or view our pets looking for homes. Thanks to our community for supporting homeless and deserving pets!

Denver Disability Commission Needs Your Voice!

The Denver Commission for People with Disabilities (DCPD) is actively recruiting new members with lived disability experience as well as allies and disability advocates. The mission of the Denver Division of Human Rights and Community Partnership disability commission is to promote and enhance equality for people with disabilities through empowerment, advocacy, and education by working with community members, as well as City and County of Denver officials and employees who can effect change.

The DCPD meets on the first Tuesday of every month by Zoom. Goals are determined annually depending on Commissioners interests and city priorities. The DCPD meets with the Mayor annually and advises as appropriate. For more information please access the DCPD website at http://bit.ly/DenverDCPD or email HRCPcommissions@Denvergov.org  

Denver Residents Can Try Lyft & Lime at a Discounted Price!

Denver’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has partnered with Lyft and Lime to offer discounted passes for shared e-bikes and scooters. As part of this initiative, Denver residents have the chance to try out these convenient and eco-friendly modes of transportation at a reduced cost. With free Lime Prime and Lyft Pink passes, Denver residents can enjoy free unlocks for every ride, making it easier and more affordable to explore the city and reach your favorite destinations. There are a limited number of discount passes available and it’s first come, first served. Request a pass today by filling out the online form at: https://bit.ly/ccd-5280pass

Free Naloxone Available to Denver Residents

Access to harm reduction supplies is more important now than ever. Saturday, August 31, 2024 is Overdose Awareness Day, a global campaign to raise awareness around overdoses, reduce stigma and acknowledge the grief of family and friends who have lost lost ones to an overdose.

The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment offers free harm reduction supplies, including naloxone (or Narcan) and fentanyl test strips to Denver residents. Request these free supplies here: https://us.openforms.com/Form/64d07e3e-6da2-4315-bed4-8988cfa3415c Shipping times of these supplies can be up to two weeks. If you have an immediate need for naloxone, visit StoptheClockColorado.org.

Organizations and businesses that want to have harm reduction supplies on hand can also receive free supplies.

Calling All Artists!

Denver Parks & Recreation (DPR) is taking three local artists, or teams of artists, to the big screen — or big wall, rather. This CALL FOR ARTISTS invites the creation of three new murals along the city’s trail network, bringing attention to DPR’s It’s In Denver’s Nature campaign to make Denver more resilient to climate change. Selected muralists will be paid for their art which should celebrate the beauty of Denver’s natural resources and draw inspiration from at least one of the five key pillars of the It’s In Denver’s Nature campaign: water conservation, urban forest, landscape transformation, habitat protection and environmental stewardship.

Have you dreamed of seeing your art covering at least 300 sq. ft. of prime Denver outdoor space in a serene, yet well-traveled location? Then it’s time to consider sharing your talent with the great outdoors, and with Denver, because mural painting could be in your nature!

To learn more about this CALL FOR ARTISTS, visit www.denvergov.org/nature. The deadline to apply is Aug. 25 and art will be installed in fall 2024. 

Give5 Mile High

5 Hours, Every Month, Every Denverite

During the 2024 State of the City address, Mayor Mike Johnston proudly announced the launch of Give5 Mile High, a new citywide volunteer initiative led by Denver First Lady Courtney Johnston. This program empowers Denverites to come together and strengthen our community through collective service. The Mayor and First Lady are excited to have Denver businesses like, Be A Good Person, R&R Headlabs, TOPO Designs, Maria Empanada and Little Man Ice Cream providing discounts and incentives to Give5 Mile High volunteers who complete their five hours or more each month.  

Give5 Mile High is kicking off this month, focusing on supporting Denver Public School students and teachers as they head back to school. Here's how you can get involved with Give5:

Volunteer at the Gives Back to School volunteer kick-off event:

What: Assembling backpacks and supply kits for students and teachers in DPS

Who: Everyone is welcome!

When: Saturday, August 17, 9 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Where: Hiawatha Davis Jr. Recreation Center Gym (3334 Holly Street, Denver, CO 80207)

Register here: https://sparkthechangecolorado.galaxydigital.com/need/index?agency_id=153375

Learn more about Give5 Mile High here: denvergov.org/Give5MileHigh

Watering Restrictions from May to October

Follow these simple summer watering rules from May 1 to Oct. 1.

The watering rules incorporate best practices for efficient outdoor water use that will help keep your landscape healthy. It’s a simple way for you to help protect our water supply now and in the future.

• Water during cooler times of the day — lawn watering is NOT allowed between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• Water two days per week, adding a third day only when needed. (Watering more than three days is not allowed.)
• Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets and alleys.
• Do not waste water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt.
• Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
• Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.
• Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car.

Longer grass is more water efficient. Keep cool season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass between 2.5-3.5 inches and warm season grasses between 1-3 inches.

Report water waste

• If you see water waste in Denver parks, water use that does not meet the rules, call 3-1-1.
• To report water waste anywhere else, do one of the following:
• Fill out our Report Water Waste form online (available 24/7).
• Chat with us during business hours using the blue chat icon located in the lower right-hand corner of this page.
• Call Denver Water at 303-893-2444.

Check if you are Eligible for Property Tax Relief

Get a refund on your 2023 property taxes! If you live in Denver County and qualify for the Property Tax Relief Program, you can get an average refund of $1,000. You may qualify if you are:

• A renter or homeowner who is 65 or older
• A renters or homeowner who was disabled all of 2023
• A homeowner who lived with at least one dependent minor child in 2023

This program has income limits and other qualification requirements. Check to see if you qualify and apply at www.denvergov.org/propertytaxrelief

Expanded Public Participation Sign-Up Time

Recently, City Council passed the update to the Rules of Procedure that not only expands the time to sign-up to speak but also offers the option of a more formal written testimony process. These changes take immediate effect and above is a handy chart!

The District Attorney's August Scam Spotter

Vacation Preparation

Many people have successfully found love or friendship using dating apps. However, with every opportunity to swipe right, there's a scammer waiting to trick you into believing they are your new one-and-only. It's perfectly fine to seek love online, but it's essential to do your research to ensure your new friend is who they claim to be.

Community Events & Meetings

District 5 Affordable Denver Conversation with Mayor Mike Johnston

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston will be hosting a community conversation on his Affordable Denver initiative at Bromwell Elementary School on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at 5:30 P.M.

Limited space available, so please register at: https://tinyurl.com/affordabledenver

Bellevue Hale Neighborhood Association Family Move Night

Saturday, August 17 @ 7:00 P.M. @ Lindsley Park

Enjoy a free evening with your kids and neighbors! Food trucks, snow cones, and popcorn will be available!

Mayfair Concert in the Park

Saturday, August 24 from 5 – 7:30 p.m. @ Mayfair Park

5:00 pm Food trucks arrive

5:00 pm Swallow Hill Musical Instrument "Petting Zoo"

6:00pm-7:30ish Music from the Denver Municipal Band

Bring family and friends, blankets and lawn chairs to Mayfair Park this Saturday for MNI's annual "So Long to Summer" concert and picnic. Bring your own eats or buy from these food trucks, scheduled to be there:

• Petey Bird Ice Cream
• Roll it up Sushi
• Taste of Texas BBQ
• Taj Palace Indian
• True West Tacos

This event brought to you by your Registered Neighborhood Organization, Mayfair Neighbors, Inc. and our sponsor, Swallow Hill Music. Donations to MNI are always welcome and appreciated to help fund our events. Summer Concert, The Egg Hunt, The Shred-A-Thon and publication of The Mayfair Mirror neighborhood newsletter are funded only by donations from you, our neighbors.

See you on Saturday at Mayfair Park!

Mayfair Neighbors, Inc. (MNI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization staffed by volunteers. The Mayfair Neighborhood Association is a Registered Neighborhood Association with the City of Denver. Mayfair’s borders are (clockwise from the north) Colfax, Monaco, 6th Avenue and Eudora, encompassing over 3,200 households.

Lowry United Neighborhoods: Housing the Unhoused

Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 7 – 8:30 p.m. @ Eisenhower Chapel (293 Roslyn Street)

Doors Open at 6:30 (Come early to socialize with your neighbors.)

Housing Is in the News

Since his inauguration, Mayor Johnston has implemented creative and aggressive programs to house and provide services to the unhoused, to aid migrants and to expand affordable Denver housing options. The situation is evolving as Denver takes unprecedented action to resolve multiple challenges.

In April 2022, LUN hosted a panel discussion on the many issues facing the unhoused and the programs serving them in Denver. 

Two and a half years later it’s time to take another look.                                             

• What is working?                                                                                                              
• What have we learned?                                                                                                   
• What has it cost?                                                                                                             
• What have we saved?                                                                                                      
• What can we (Denver citizens) do to help?

Meet our Panel

From the Mayor’s Office:                                                                                              

• Cole Chandler, Senior Advisor for the All In Mile High Program                                    
• Matt Ball, Director of Policy, Roads to Recovery                                                           
• Sarah Plastino, Director of the Newcomer Program:

From the non-profit community contracted to manage housing/services:                        

• Nancy Burke, CEO, St. Francis Center                                                                 
• Michael Karpeles, Director of Special Projects, Salvation Army

Moderator: Lowry’s own Todd Neff who will allow plenty of time for the panel to address audience questions.

Back the Blue BBQ at Fillmore Plaza in Cherry Creek North

September 18, 2024 from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M.

Bring your friends, family and colleagues to a casual evening while supporting an extraordinary cause; raising funds to outfit Denver Police Officers with rifle rated ballistic vests. Enjoy amazing food, spirits, and live music while meeting and mingling with Denver’s finest – those who go above and beyond the call of duty each day to keep our city safe.

The event entrance will be located on Fillmore Street and 2nd Ave. The music and presentation will be under the shade sail. See below for a map of the event area. Registration for the event is required (and can be done on site). Register here: https://denverpolicefoundation.salsalabs.org/2024BacktheBlueBBQ/index.html

2024 Taste of Mayfair

September 15, 2024 from Noon-7:00 P.M

It’s that time of the year as we gear up for another special Taste of Mayfair event, and we are still in search of new vendors! For those who are not familiar with our event, it is a full day celebration, encompassing all that is great about not only Denver, but the local Mayfair neighborhood as well. While this event is primarily for vendors like you to sell their products, we also provide the opportunity to connect with like-minded people and enjoy all that the Mayfair neighborhood has to offer! Find more info at www.tasteofmayfair.com 

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

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