This memo follows up on the Council’s study session decision in May at which DC Kellogg, Commander Hunt, and Sergeant Bowman presented an overview of federal regulation of drones in relation to local control. The Council directed staff to move forward with case law research and possible options based on reasonableness and the degree to which any City regulations will be challenged. Drone technology over the last 15 years for civilian use has exponentially increased the number of unmanned ariel systems (UAS) flying over our municipalities. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimates annual drone sales at 7 million units in 2020. This has created environmental, safety, and privacy concerns for citizens, some of whom will look to the City for a solution. Many cities and towns across the country have attempted to regulate drone activity, with varying success. This memo briefly outlines the strategies that have been tried and the risks associated with different approaches. The overall guidance from Council at the May study session was to be conservative and risk-adverse in identifying elements of a drone ordinance for the City. I have created an outline of elements at the end of this memo which follows that direction.

There currently are no agenda items scheduled for the November 24, 2025 City Council meeting. To give City Council and staff more time to spend with family and friends during the Thanksgiving holiday week, staff recommends canceling the November 24, 2025, City Council meeting.

City Council approved an agreement with Altumint on October 28, 2024 to provide an automated speed camera program. This motion seeks Council’s approval to proceed with implementing additional enforcement areas. As legislatively required, each jurisdiction must approve identified speed corridors on state roadways. The proposed expansion targets the segments of CSH 121 (Wadsworth Boulevard) and CSH 391 (Kipling Street) between 32nd Avenue and 50th Avenue, which have recently received preliminary designation as speed corridors from both the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Colorado State Patrol, as required.

Utility markings are a necessary part of construction to protect underground infrastructure: however, they often remain long after projects are completed, leaving streets, sidewalks, and public spaces with unsightly, lingering paint marks. The City of Wheat Ridge currently lacks a clear requirement for their timely removal, resulting in aesthetic and maintenance concerns across the community. Establishing formal standards for utility marking removal will ensure that construction sites are properly restored, maintain the community’s visual appeal, and align Wheat Ridge with best practices in neighboring cities.