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City Council – Special Study Session
Mon, Apr 22, 2024 at 7:00pm
2 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - Happiness Gardens Update
Councilmember Hultin requested a special study session on Happiness Gardens. Members of the Parks and Recreation Department will discuss how the garden has fostered community building across generations, honoring the rich history of agriculture in Wheat Ridge. Staff will provide information on how Happiness Gardens has transformed in recent years through grants and partnerships. Additionally, staff will share future plans for Happiness Gardens, as well as the recently acquired Randall Park property.
City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Apr 22, 2024 at 6:30pm
13 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1a - RESO - budget supplement to re-encumber funds
Pending
On February 26, 2024, Council approved the reappropriation of 105 open purchase orders from the 2023 budget for a total re-encumbrance of $14,676,888.46. Three of those 105 purchase orders incurred payments in 2024 prior to the carryover, but the amount was not reflected in the re-encumbrance amount. As a result, the three purchase orders are now short of funds in the amount of the payment that was made. To continue or close out these projects in 2024, a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $415,911.71 is necessary to allow transfer of these funds into specific budget line items in the 2024 Budget.
Item No. 1b - RESO - budget supplement for DOLA grant
Pending
In late 2023, the Wheat Ridge Homeless Navigation Program was awarded $75,000 by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs through its Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) application, with funds to be released in April 2024. ESG is a federal, HUD-administered program, now supplemented with Proposition 123 funds. The grant award will be used to support the Navigation Program’s outreach and motel vouchering efforts.
Item No. 1c - RESO - IGA with Denver for Study
Pending
The City received a grant from the Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) Trails Partnership Program for a trail feasibility study. The study will focus on the area between Creekside Park in Wheat Ridge and W. 52nd Avenue that is the border between Denver and Jefferson Counties to determine if an off-street trail connection is possible in this area to link together the existing Clear Creek Trail. Wheat Ridge will be accepting the Trails Partnership funding so an intergovernmental agreement with Denver is required to outline the terms associated with the management of this project.
Item No. 1d - RESO - agreement with Jeffco Open Space
Pending
The City of Wheat Ridge was awarded $45,000 through the Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) Trails Partnership Program. The $45,000 award is 50% of the estimated cost for a feasibility study of the area between Creekside Park in Wheat Ridge and W. 52nd Avenue that is the border between Denver and Jefferson Counties to determine if an off-street trail connection is possible in this area to link together the existing Clear Creek Trail. To accept the grant and receive the funding, the City Council must direct the Mayor to sign the grant agreement.
Item No. 1e - MOTION - appoint BOA Members
Pending
Section 2.53(e) of the City of Wheat Ridge Code of Laws states “…any board or commission member who shall change their personal residence to an address outside the city or the district they represent shall cease to be a member of the board or commission…” Betty Jo Page was previously appointed to a District I seat on the Board of Adjustment. She has since moved into District II. She was removed from the Board and she has re-applied for a District II seat. Thomas Burney who holds a District II seat is a resident of District IV. Staff is requesting to appoint Betty Jo Page to the District II seat currently occupied by Thomas Burney and to appoint Thomas Burney to the vacant District IV seat. This will place both members in the districts in which they reside. This will leave a vacancy in District I for which staff will recruit.
Item No. 1f - MOTION - contract with OpenGov
Pending
In 2021, City Council determined a priority of the City must be to streamline permitting and licensing to assist the business community in working with Wheat Ridge and provide greater customer service. Following a two-year evaluation period of systems and existing business processes, the City has selected five systems to drive efficiency and modernize business practices. The second system to be purchased and implemented is OpenGov which will facilitate permitting and licensing for our contractors as well as improving code enforcement visibility.
Item No. 2 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws re Public Notice
Pending
Prior to the public hearing for a quasi-judicial application, the zoning code currently requires that the City send letter notice of the hearing to owners and occupants within 600 feet of the subject property. The proposed ordinance extends this letter notice to 1000 feet.
Item No. 3 - RESO - agreement with Renewal Wheat Ridge
Pending
U.S. Retail Partners, LLC (the “Developer”) redeveloped the vacant Walmart retail building within the Applewood Village Shopping Center in 2019 which resulted in new retailers such as Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, Sierra Trading Post, Ulta, Eyeglass World and Chick-fil-A. To assist in the redevelopment, the City and the Wheat Ridge Urban Renewal Authority dba Renewal Wheat Ridge (RWR) entered into a Cooperation Agreement dated May 13, 2019 which authorized the City to pledge a 1.0 cent sales tax increment to the project for a period of five years up to a maximum amount of $2,000,874. The sales tax pledge will expire in 2024. Due to the emergence of the COVID crisis shortly after the new retailers opened, and other economic factors, the sales tax pledge is estimated to generate only $390,471, well short of the $2,000,874 originally estimated by revenue modeling. The Developer has requested an extension of the sales tax pledge for another ten years, without amending the maximum sales tax pledge of $2,000,874.
Item No. 4 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws re Liquor Authority
Pending
The City has an eight-member, Council appointed Liquor Licensing Authority (LLA) that is vested with the authority to grant and refuse liquor licenses and other types of applications and permits, and hold show cause hearings for alleged violations, all in the manner provided by law. Over the past few years, the eight-member board has struggled at times to reach a quorum, delaying Wheat Ridge businesses from obtaining licenses and other resolutions in a timely manner.
Item No. 5 - RESO - budget amendment for storm sewer repairs
Pending
In November 2023, Wheat Ridge citizens favorably supported an extension of a ½ cent temporary sales and use tax to be used for constructing sidewalk gaps, sidewalk, bike lane, roadway and drainage improvements. Recent storm sewer pipe failures have resulted in the need to access funds for these repairs. As bonds for these improvements will likely not be issued until the fall of 2024, at the earliest, it is necessary to declare the City’s intent to use bond proceeds for these improvements and, when financing occurs, to be reimbursed with proceeds from the bonds for these expenditures.
Item No. 6 - RESO - IGA with Denver for UASI
Pending
The State of Colorado received an Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant award for approximately $504,588 to purchase a mobile command post vehicle for the City of Wheat Ridge Police Department. Wheat Ridge is responsible to appropriate a 20.1% match of funds and to approve an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the City and County of Denver to receive the mobile command post vehicle. The grant award amount may increase or decrease slightly before the vehicle is delivered. To account for this uncertainty, this supplemental budget appropriation will approve matching funds up to an amount not-to-exceed $115,000 to ensure adequate funding is available for the City’s required matching funds.
Item No. 7 - RESO - Jeffco Historical Landmark Designation
Pending
The Wheat Ridge Historical Society and the City of Wheat Ridge were approached by the Jefferson County Historical Commission about applying to the County Landmark Designation Program for the Wheat Ridge Historical Park and the Baugh House. Both properties can be submitted as a single application. As the City owns the buildings and properties, City Council support for the application to the county program is needed and Council would need to direct the Mayor to sign the Owner Consent Form that is part of the application.
Planning Commission – Regular Meeting
Thu, Apr 18, 2024 at 6:30pm
3 Agenda Items
Virtual and in-person. Click for more information.
Download Packet
Public Forum (Comments NOT Related to Agenda Items)
Members of the public may comment here on any matter *NOT* appearing on the meeting agenda. To comment on an agenda item, please select the respective agenda item and comment on that page.
Zone Change at 10840 W 41st Pl
Pending
Mark Brannon is requesting approval of a zone change from Agricultural-One (A-1) to Residential-One B (R-1B) for the property at 10840 W. 41st Place. The zone change would result in a zoning that matches that of the surrounding neighborhood, brings the property into conformance, and encourages revitalization of the site. Should the zone change be approved, the applicant intends to subdivide the current single lot into two lots in order to construct one additional single-unit dwelling.
Zone Change at Parcel ID 39-193-01-010
Cogent Companies is requesting approval of a zone change from Agricultural-One (A-1) to Industrial-Employment (I-E) on property located at Parcel ID 39-193-01-010. The applicant intends to utilize the property for outdoor storage. This proposed zone change acknowledges the changed conditions on this property, and in the area, and would allow for a better and more productive use of the land. Additionally, the zone change would enable the land to further achieve the city’s current comprehensive plan goals to encourage employment-generating uses in the area by allowing the adjacent property to utilize it for their needs.
City Council – Study Session
Mon, Apr 15, 2024 at 6:30pm
4 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - School of Mines Update
This hill along the south and southeast edge of Creekside Park regularly has minor landslides that push debris onto the Clear Creek Trail and into Creekside Park. Drainage from the hill also results in the Trail becoming icy in the winter. Throughout the 2023-2024 academic year, a Colorado School of Mines Capstone Project student team has analyzed the current state of the hill and provided recommendations and cost estimates for improving the ongoing stability, drainage, and sliding issues related to the hill. Their final project presentation on April 15th will provide a concise project overview.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - City Plan Update
The purpose of this study session is to provide City Council with an update on the City Plan planning process, including public engagement and preliminary findings from the existing conditions analysis completed thus far. Attachment 1 is a memo provided by the City Plan consultant, czb, which includes more details to support this study session. This is the first of four anticipated Council meetings on this project, with subsequent study sessions scheduled for June, September, and February 2025.
Item No. 3 - MEMO - 2J Sales Tax Effort Update
In November 2023, Wheat Ridge residents favorably supported an extension of a ½ cent temporary sales and use tax to be used for the following capital infrastructure projects: • Sidewalk, bike lane and street improvements on primary street corridors such as 32nd Ave., 38th Ave., 44th Ave, and Youngfield Street; • Filling sidewalk gaps and other sidewalk repair and replacement with an emphasis on major pedestrian corridors and routes to schools; and • Drainage and floodplain infrastructure improvements at priority locations in the city. Feedback from the community over the last several years, the bi-annual citizen survey, as well as the January 2023 City Council retreat formed the basis for these major project themes. Since approval of the tax extension, staff has developed a refined list of projects within each of the three themes. City leadership has considered other funding sources available for these specific projects, state and grant funding opportunities, staff capacity, as well as projects that span multiple council districts. Staff also prioritized projects that residents directly identified as being a top priority in the surveys. The emergency stormwater repairs, together with the estimated costs for the corridor, sidewalks and bikeways projects, exceeds $121 million. It is hoped that grants will provide additional resources to allow for design and construction of some of these improvements. Many projects fall into two or three of the major themes. As many projects have not been designed or fully scoped, the cost estimates for each are conservative. The projects and estimated costs for drainage improvements were developed at a very high level since the Stormwater Master Plan has just begun. Given the anticipated costs of the Stormwater Program, staff is recommending that only emergency stormwater repairs be funded with the sales and use tax revenue. Staff is seeking City Council confirmation on the proposed list of projects as well as the planned approach to implementation.
City Council – Special Study Session
Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 7:00pm
3 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - Lutheran Legacy Update
The purpose of this memo and the April 8 study session is to discuss the next two steps associated with future redevelopment at the Lutheran Legacy Campus: a zone change and a charter amendment.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - Neighborhood Traffic Issues
Traffic issues, primarily excessive speeds, are a continual complaint from the public. Citizens contact various departments, primarily the police department, to request speed enforcement on their streets. While the police department responds to these requests as time and resources allow, often, it is determined that there is not a speeding problem that is enforceable. In other words, the number of speeding vehicles does not warrant committing resources to enforce a minor number of the overall vehicles on the street. This results in frustration from citizens who often expect that all speeding vehicles should be ticketed to effect change. The city is attempting to address traffic issues throughout the community in a variety of ways that focus on not only enforcement but also education, and engineering. Education can assist in advising drivers, as well as pedestrians and bicyclists, of their responsibilities on the road and the rules of the road. Engineering attempts to modify the built environment either through temporary or permanent measures, to effect changes in driver behavior. An example of this is speed humps. Staff will present current efforts underway as well as some additional options for consideration by the City Council for implementation.
City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 6:30pm
4 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws for Public Hearings
Approved
Prior to the public hearing for a quasi-judicial application, the zoning code currently requires that the City send letter notice of the hearing to owners and occupants within 600 feet of the subject property. The proposed ordinance extends this letter notice to 1000 feet.
Item No. 2 - MOTION - Install art at the Ward TOD project
Approved
The Wheat Ridge Ward Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Project includes funding for public art. The process for selecting public art is defined in the Public Art Management Plan. Per this process, a public art piece by Tyler Fuqua titled “Mechan and Celestial Vines” has been selected by an appointed committee for recommendation to the Cultural Commission. The Cultural Commission reviewed the proposal and is recommending this selection to City Council for acceptance and purchase. The purchase price of $160,000 includes design, construction, installation, and documentation.
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Item No. 3 - RESO - convey ditch ROW with Lee & Baugh
Approved
The City is currently working towards the design and construction of a trail around Tabor Lake. The Lee and Baugh Ditch Company has legal rights-of-way and easements to inspect, use, operate, maintain, and repair the Ditch adjacent to Tabor Lake. This proposed license agreement would formalize and document the rights of both the Ditch Company and the City in the area near Tabor Lake and allow the City to install and maintain a non-motorized trail in this area.
City Council – Study Session
Mon, Apr 1, 2024 at 6:30pm
4 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - Jeffco Schools Update
Leadership from the Jefferson County School District will provide a “State of the District” presentation to City Council at the April 1st study session. The presentation will primarily cover the following topics: 1. Vision, Mission, Values, Priorities 2. Major Accomplishments 3. Property Disposition Process 4. School Funding 5. Mill Levy Overrides 6. School District Employee Compensation 7. 2023/2024 Major Initiatives Tracy Dorland, Superintendent; Lisa Relou, Chief of Staff; Jeff Gatlin, Chief Operating Officer; and Kimberly Mahugh, Associate Chief Communications and Strategic Partnerships, will be in attendance from the District.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - BC&C Annual Update
Staff has completed the first Boards and Commissions Annual Report. This report details the achievements of each public body included in the report through the 2023 calendar year, anticipated activities in 2024, and provides information regarding the members of each public body. Staff has also prepared a presentation to accompany the delivery of the report.
Item No. 3 - MEMO - Liquor Licensing Authority
The City has an eight-member, Council appointed Liquor Licensing Authority (LLA) that is vested with the authority to grant and refuse liquor licenses and other types of applications and permits, and hold show cause hearings for alleged violations, all in the manner provided by law. Over the past few years, the eight-member board has struggled at times to reach a quorum, delaying Wheat Ridge businesses from obtaining licenses or permits in a timely manner. Council may consider appointing an Administrative Hearing Officer (AHO) in place of the eight-member board, as is becoming more standard across the Denver metro area.
City Council – Special Study Session
Mon, Mar 25, 2024 at 7:00pm
3 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - Ward Multi-Model Project
In 2022, the city successfully received a portion of the needed construction funding through the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) process to construct a pedestrian bridge over the RTD rail tracks near the Ward Station along with a multi-use trail from the south end of the bridge to the I-70 frontage road. To construct this project, it is necessary to acquire portions of private property from landowners. In total, property from fourteen (14) separate parcels must be acquired which includes nine (9) right-of-way parcels, seven (7) permanent easements, and seven (7) temporary easements. Staff are also proposing vacating a portion of the existing right-of-way, currently owned by the City of Wheat Ridge, to an adjacent property owner to reduce impacts to the acquisition of a portion of that property owner’s land. Since there are federal funds involved in the project, the city is obligated to comply with the policies and provisions of the Uniform Relocation Assistance Act process for land acquisition. The Uniform Act was enacted by Congress in 1970 (amended in 1987) to ensure property owners and tenants are treated fairly, equitably, and receive relocation assistance. Staff will provide an overview of the proposed land acquisition process associated with this project. Specific parcel and property owner information will not be discussed in this memo or in the presentation. If there is interest in receiving this information and discussing the city’s negotiation strategy, an executive session can be scheduled for a future date.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - 2024 Bldg Code Updates
The City currently enforces the 2018 International Building Codes which were adopted in Wheat Ridge in 2020. The City typically updates the building codes every 4-6 years. With the recently released 2024 International Codes, staff is preparing to start the code update process. The purpose of this memo and the March 25 study session is to provide background information on the code update process and to seek Council direction to proceed with the adoption of the 2024 International Building Codes.
City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Mar 25, 2024 at 6:30pm
10 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1a - RESO - amend budget for Council Chamber Improv
Approved
The City receives approximately $27,000 per year from the Public, Educational and Governmental (PEG) access channel fee assessed by the local cable franchising authority (Comcast) for costs associated with the channel. Staff recommends some improvements and upgrades to equipment in Council Chambers so that public meetings can be more effectively managed, presented and televised. This request appropriates funds restricted for these purposes to make the improvements.
Item No. 1b - MOTION - contract with GOVOS
Approved
In 2021, City Council determined a priority of the City must be to streamline permitting and licensing to assist the business community in working with Wheat Ridge and provide greater customer service. Following a two-year evaluation period of systems and existing business processes, the City has selected five systems to drive efficiency and modernize business practices. The first system to be purchased and implemented is GovOS which will facilitate tax and business licensing filing and collection.
Item No. 1c - RESO - Amend Budget Urban Forestry Grant Agree
Approved
Item No. 2 - MOTION - agree with Jeffco Schools Green @ 38th
Approved
Staff received direction from City Council in 2018 to engage a designer to develop conceptual designs for a community gathering space at The Green on 38th Avenue in front of Stevens Elementary. The final design is now nearly complete, and construction is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2024, when the school closes for summer break. Staff signed a nonbinding Letter of Intent with the Jefferson County School District which set forth the terms under which the District would convey the property necessary for The Green to the City in exchange for the City constructing a new parking lot for Stevens Elementary. The terms of the Letter of Intent have been incorporated into a Contract to Buy and Sell Real Estate.
Item No. 3 - MOTION - Phase one Green @ 38th to ECI Const.
Approved
A project to create an urban park along 38th Avenue between Upham Street and High Court was budgeted several years ago. Staff recommends awarding a contract to ECI Site Construction Management, Inc. of Loveland, Colorado in the amount of $1,386,590. This contract is associated with the first phase of construction, which includes the Stevens Elementary parking lot.
Item No. 4 - MOTION - contract to Berry Dunn for Parks Plan
Approved
The City has determined that it is time to update the parks and recreation master plan. This decision is supported by the CAPRA (Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies) recommendation of updating the document every 10 years. Funds were previously budgeted for this update, and the City is seeking consultant services to complete this plan update for a total cost not to exceed $249,999. On March 14, 2024, the firm Berry Dunn was selected by the City’s established procurement process to perform the required professional services for completion of the parks and recreation master plan update.
Item No. 5 - contract with RESPEC for Stormwater Master Plan
Approved
The City experienced a series of storm sewer pipe failures in 2023. It was determined that an increased level of investment in maintenance, repairs and upgrades to the system is necessary to provide adequate protection to life, safety, and property. A previous Stormwater Master Plan was created in 1979. Since that time, minimal planning and analysis has been completed, therefore, a comprehensive evaluation is required. The Plan will provide an assessment of the current system, development of immediate and future needs along with recommendations for improvements, a capital plan, and an implementation schedule. This effort will also include an evaluation of a stormwater utility fee for the community. Optional pricing is being sought for review and recommendations of the city’s current development standards related to drainage and runoff. Staff recommends awarding a contract to RESPEC Company, LLC of Denver, Colorado in the amount of $189,755 plus a staff-managed contingency of $10,245 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $200,000.
Item No. 6 - MOTION - appoint B&C & Committee members
Approved
Council appoints members to the City’s Boards and Commissions annually and as needed throughout the year to fill vacancies. There are three Board and Commission appointments to consider at this time. Council appoints members to the Community Partners Grant Program Committee. There are four appointments to make at this time. Council must also ratify staff’s nominations for appointments to Sustainable Wheat Ridge (SWR). Staff has prepared a list of SWR nominations for the Council to consider. There are five Staff nominations for Council to ratify and one District appointment to make at this time.
Item No. 7 - RESO - oppose legislation infringing Home Rule
Approved
The City’s Home Rule authority was adopted by its voters in 1976 and is enshrined in the Colorado Constitution. The City Council may pass a resolution in opposition to state legislation infringing up its Home Rule authority. As a result, elected officials and staff could oppose such legislation on behalf of the City without returning to Council to discuss specific bills.
Planning Commission – Regular Meeting
Thu, Mar 21, 2024 at 6:30pm
2 Agenda Items
Virtual and in-person. Click for more information.
Download Packet
Ordinance amending mailing radius for public notice
Approved
An ordinance amending section 26-109 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning public hearing letter notice. This ordinance amends the letter notice from 600 to 1000 feet for neighborhood meetings and public hearings. This would mean increased notice for the following types of meetings and applications: Neighborhood meetings: · Special Use Permit · Zone Change · Concept Plan (for sites 10 acres or larger) · Outline Development Plan Public hearings: · Special Use Permit · Zone Change · Outline Development Plan · Specific Development Plan · Type II Subdivision · Planning Building Group · Master Sign Plan · Right-of-Way Vacations - Historical Designation
Master Sign Plan at 13155 W. 40th Ave. (Lutheran Hospital)
Approved
A request for approval of a master sign plan for the new Intermountain Health Lutheran Medical Center hospital campus at Clear Creek Crossing which is zoned Planned Mixed Use Development (PMUD). The purpose of the request is to allow for internal directional signs and larger wall signs than code allows.
City Council – Study Session
Mon, Mar 18, 2024 at 6:30pm
3 Agenda Items
Virtual or In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - 2024 Legislative Update
The Legislative Update is an opportunity for the City’s elected officials and staff to discuss legislative priorities, current legislation, and Wheat Ridge positions and priorities for the 2024 session. Senator Jessie Danielson and Representative Monica Duran will be in attendance, and Colorado Municipal League Legislative Advocacy Manager Heather Stauffer will be available to review legislation and answer questions. Agenda: • 2024 Priority Legislative Issues o Heather Stauffer, CML o Senator Jessie Danielson o Representative Monica Duran • Questions and Answers o City Council o City Department Directors
Item No. 2 - MEMO - Lutheran and Carr St. Urban Renewal Plan
Consideration of two resolutions adopting new urban renewal plan areas for the Lutheran Legacy Campus and the industrial area west of Wadsworth at I-70 to Garrison Street (Carr Street Plan).
City Council – City Council Study Session
Mon, Mar 4, 2024 at 6:30pm
5 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - Coop Agreement with URA for Walmart
U.S. Retail Partners, LLC (the “Developer”) redeveloped the vacant Walmart retail building within the Applewood Village Shopping Center in 2019 which resulted in new retailers such as Hobby Lobby, HomeGoods, Sierra Trading Post, Ulta, Eyeglass World and Chick-fil-A. To assist in the redevelopment, the City and the Wheat Ridge Urban Renewal Authority dba Renewal Wheat Ridge (RWR) entered into a Cooperation Agreement dated May 13, 2019 which authorized the City to pledge a 1.0 cent sales tax increment to the project for a period of five years up to a maximum amount of $2,000,874. The sales tax pledge will expire in 2024. Due to the emergence of the COVID crisis shortly after the new retailers opened, and other economic factors, the sales tax pledge is estimated to generate only $390,471, well short of the $2,000,874 originally estimated by revenue modeling. The Developer has requested an extension of the sales tax pledge for another ten years, without amending the maximum sales tax pledge of $2,000,874.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - Final Design for The Green at 38th
Staff received direction from City Council in 2018 to engage a designer to develop conceptual designs for a community gathering space at The Green on 38th Avenue in front of Stevens Elementary. The final design is now nearly complete, and construction is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2024, when the school closes for summer break. Staff and the architect for the project, Architerra Group, will provide an update on the project and present the final design to City Council at the March 4th study session.
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Item No. 3 - MEMO - Agreement with Jeffco Schools for 38th
Staff received direction from City Council in 2018 to engage a designer to develop conceptual designs for a community gathering space at The Green on 38th Avenue in front of Stevens Elementary. The final design is now nearly complete, and construction is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2024 when the school closes for summer break. Staff signed a nonbinding Letter of Intent with the Jefferson County School District which set forth the terms under which the District would convey the property necessary for The Green to the City in exchange for the City constructing a new parking lot for Stevens Elementary. The terms of the Letter of Intent have been incorporated into the attached Draft Contract to Buy and Sell Real Estate which will be presented to City Council at the March 4th study session.
Item No. 4 - MEMO - Reso in Opp to HB24-1152 ADU Policy
The Colorado Legislature’s House Bill 24-1152 preempts and undermines the efforts of the City of Wheat Ridge to continue a well-researched and community-driven accessory dwelling unit (ADU) policy. Notably, it would void the City’s locally supported requirement that ADUs be owner-occupied. Council may consider providing consensus to oppose HB24-1152 by resolution.
City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Feb 26, 2024 at 6:30pm
11 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1a - RESO - Amend FY24 Budget
Approved
There are 105 open purchase orders from the 2023 budget that will be carried over to the 2024 budget. Each purchase order is associated with a specific project that was not fully completed in the 2023 fiscal year. The funds which were encumbered for these purchase orders were transferred to the unreserved fund balance of the relevant fund when the purchase orders were closed. To continue or close out these projects in 2024, a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $14,676,888.46 is necessary to allow transfer of these funds into specific budget line items in the 2024 Budget.
Item No. 1b - MOTION - purchase deicer from GMCO
Approved
The city purchases and applies deicer materials each year as part of its snow and ice control efforts. The city will utilize a State of Nebraska contract with GMCO Corporation to purchase materials for 2024 in an amount not to exceed $85,000.
Ite No. 1c - MOTION - ARPA funds to Jefferson Center for MH
Approved
City Council provided direction to staff regarding usage of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in 2022. That direction included payment to Jefferson Center for Mental Health (JCMH) in the amount of $100,000 per year for four years for services to Wheat Ridge residents. This motion approves payment in 2024.
Item No. 2 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws Bike Reqs
Approved
The proposed ordinance creates long-term bicycle storage requirements for large multi-unit residential developments, updates and clarifies vehicle parking reduction allowances when additional bicycle parking is required and decouples bicycle parking requirements from vehicle parking requirements.
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Item No. 3 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws EV Reqs
Approved
The proposed ordinance creates regulations for electric vehicle (EV) parking and charging facilities within the zoning code, defines terms related to EVs, allows for EV charging facilities of various types throughout the City, and establishes minimum EV parking space requirements.
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Item No. 4 - MOTION - B&C Appointments
Approved
As of March 2, 2024, the terms of twenty-one current Board and Commissions members of the City of Wheat Ridge will expire. Additionally, there are two existing vacancies to fill which include seats on the Cultural Commission and Liquor Licensing Authority, and one position being added to the Board of Adjustment per the new Board and Commission rules going into effect March 1, 2024. These 24 positions in total are to be filled or reappointed. Additionally, the Parks and Recreation and Planning Commissions have two members from specific districts whose terms expire in the same year. Term expirations should be staggered. This is caused by an error years ago when appointments were made. Staff recommends Council take this opportunity to stagger the term dates as further described below.
Item No. 5 - RESO - Adopt Bylaws of Public Bodies
Approved
The City Council has adopted Boards and Commissions Code amendments which come into effect on March 1, 2024. As a result, each of the City’s public bodies have approved bylaws that conform to the code amendments and make general improvements. These bylaws can only be adopted by resolution of the City Council.
Item No. 6 - RESO - Adopt B&C Code of Ethics
Approved
Staff requests that the City Council adopt a Boards and Commissions Code of Ethics to instruct board and commission members to act in a manner that aligns with the City’s values.
Item No 7 - RESO - Approve IGA with Jeffco School Dist
Approved
The Wheat Ridge Police Department and the Jefferson County School District have worked together for several years and participated in the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program. The primary mission of the SRO Program is to provide formal instruction, informal consultation and mediation, enforcement and problem solving for the school communities. A formal, written, intergovernmental agreement between the City and the District concerning school resource officers, has been in place for over ten (10) years. The District has requested the intergovernmental agreement be reviewed and reapproved.
Item No. 8 - RESO - Agreements with Jeffco Open Space
Approved
The City of Wheat Ridge was awarded $252,650 and $32,069 from two separate grant awards through the Jeffco Open Space (JCOS) Trails Partnership Program. The $252,650 award is 50% of the estimated cost for specific studies, designs, and improvements to the Clear Creek Trail. The $32,069 award is 25% of the estimated cost to replace the existing asphalt Hayward Park walking trail with 8’ wide concrete. To receive the funding, the City must accept the grant award by directing the Mayor to sign the attached Grant Agreement.
Planning Commission – Regular Meeting
Thu, Feb 15, 2024 at 6:30pm
2 Agenda Items
Virtual and in-person. Click for more information.
Download Packet
Carr Street URA
Pending
The Planning Commission is be asked to review the proposed Carr Street Urban Renewal Plan (the ‘Plan’) and adoption of a Resolution regarding its conformity with the City’s Comprehensive Plan (‘Comp Plan’), Envision Wheat Ridge. The proposed Plan anticipates private investment within its boundaries which will primarily be zoned Industrial Employment (IE). This may include the demolition of existing substandard and blighted structures, and the construction of improvements that support local goals related to land use, economic development, transportation, and sustainability.
Lutheran Legacy Campus URA
Pending
Planning Commission is being asked to review of the Lutheran Legacy Urban Renewal Plan (the Plan), and adoption of Resolution regarding its conformity with the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Envision Wheat Ridge, adopted 2009 (Comp Plan). The Plan anticipates private investment within its boundaries including residential land uses, a high standard of development, demolition of existing blighted structures, and the construction of improvements that support local goals related to land use, economic development, housing diversity, community services, transportation, and sustainability.
City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Feb 12, 2024 at 6:30pm
13 Agenda Items
Virtual or In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1a - MOTION - Salt purchase
Approved
The city purchases and applies deicer materials each year as part of its snow and ice control efforts. The city has participated in a cooperative bidding process through the Colorado Multiple Assembly of Procurement Officials (MAPO) to obtain the best pricing. The city will utilize a City of Fort Collins contract with Independent Salt Company to purchase materials for 2024 in an amount not to exceed $140,200.
Item No. 1b - MOTION - Fuel Purchase
Approved
The city provides on-site fuel tanks at the Public Works Shop to allow for fueling of city vehicles. Purchase and delivery of fuel is provided on a periodic basis from Senergy Petroleum of Arvada, Colorado. Senergy was selected as the preferred vendor based on a procurement process through the Colorado Multiple Assembly of Procurement Officials (MAPO) in 2022. This action will encumber funds in the amount of $136,500 for fuel purchases, including delivery to the Shop, in 2024.
Item No. 1c - MOTION - WEX Fuel card system
Approved
In 2023 the city entered into an agreement with WEX Bank to provide fuel cards for each city vehicle which can then be used at any participating gas station in their network. WEX tracks the expenses and provides one invoice to the city monthly for all fuel purchases. The program is currently being utilized by the Police Department but is anticipated to be expanded to all city departments for unleaded fuel only, later this year. This action will encumber funds in the amount of $180,000 for all WEX purchases in 2024.
Item No. 1d - MOTION- Custodial Srvcs to Jani-King
Approved
The City’s various facilities require consistent custodial service. Ensuring clean and hygienic public and workspaces is fundamental to the safe operation of the city organization and community services. Staff is recommending approval of a contract to S&B Confluence d/b/a Jani-King of Colorado in the amount of $419,350 plus a contingency for unforeseen items of $10,000 for the 2024 calendar year.
Item No. 1e - MOTION - Purchase 2 police vehicles
Approved
Each year, the city identifies a proposed list of vehicle replacements within the city fleet. In 2024, two of the Police Department’s Patrol vehicles are scheduled for replacement. Staff recommends the purchase of two 2024 Ford Expedition SSV Police Patrol vehicles under The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) Price Agreement at a total cost of $113,140.
Item No. 1f - MOTION - cancel March 11, 2024 meeting
Approved
The City Council Meeting of March 11, 2024, currently does not have any scheduled agenda items. Due to three members of the City Council as well as the City Manager attending the NLC Conference, and one additional councilmember absent that evening, and seeing there are no items currently scheduled for this date it is recommended that City Council cancel this meeting.
Item No. 2 - ORD - zone change of 10390 W 38th Ave
Approved
The owner of the property at 10390 W. 38th Avenue is requesting approval of a zone change from Commercial-One (C-1) to Mixed Use-Neighborhood (MU-N). The zone change will result in a zoning designation that would allow for the redevelopment and revitalization of the property. Should the zone change be approved, the owner of the property intends to redevelop the site for approximately 10 town home units.
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Item No. 3 - ORD - vacate interest in 46th Ave
Approved
The City of Wheat Ridge holds rights-of-way (ROW) in trust for the public. A portion of right-of-way along the south side of W 46th Ave, located between Everett St and Estes St, has been deemed to be unnecessary by the Community Development Department.
Item No. 4 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws re Bicycle Parking
Approved
The proposed ordinance creates long-term bicycle storage requirements for large multi-unit residential developments, updates and clarifies vehicle parking reduction allowances when additional bicycle parking is required and decouples bicycle parking requirements from vehicle parking requirements.
Item No. 5 - ORD - Amend WR Code of Laws re EV vehicles
Approved
The proposed ordinance creates regulations for electric vehicle (EV) parking and charging facilities within the zoning code, defines terms related to EVs, allows for EV charging facilities of various types throughout the City, and establishes minimum EV parking space requirements.
Item No. 6 - RESO - support Democracy
Approved
This resolution declares the Council’s unwavering commitment to supporting democracy. The resolution affirms, emphasizes, and actively promotes democratic values and principles within the City of Wheat Ridge, encouraging widespread participation in fostering an inclusive and accountable governing structure.
Item No. 7 - MOTION - Council Rules of Order
Approved
The Charter of the City of Wheat Ridge provides that the Council may determine its own rules of procedure for meetings. Section B of Suspension and Amendment of these Rules states “These Rules may be amended, or new Rules adopted by a majority vote of City Council Members present at a Regular or Special Meeting, provided that the proposed amendments or new Rules shall have been submitted in writing to City Council at a preceding meeting or a Study Session. Any City Council Member, or the Mayor, may initiate an amendment of these Rules in the manner provided for initiation of Agenda Items by Rule V.D. These Rules shall be reviewed and revised by the City Council as needed and as provided for herein.”
City Council – Study Session
Mon, Feb 5, 2024 at 6:30pm
3 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - Waterwise Landscape Code Amendments
On June 5, 2023, City Council discussed waterwise landscaping regulations. Last year’s memo and presentation provided an overview of waterwise principles, a summary of other community practices, a summary of City’s programs and practices, and a discussion of specific policy questions related to the City’s landscape regulations (Section 26-502 of the zoning code). The June 2023 memo is available online: https://wheatridgespeaks.org/items/913. City Council expressed positive support and interest in waterwise landscape design to reduce water consumption, encourage water efficiency, and establish stronger links between water supply and land use planning.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - Facilities Master Plan Overview and Recs
Development of the Facilities Master Plan (FMP) included tasks focused on visioning, data collection, analysis, and development of an implementation strategy to assess the city’s space needs for existing and projected facility requirements. The FMP is intended to be a “living document” that will be used as a planning tool. Therefore, specific moves internal to city buildings, and between locations, that have been outlined in this plan are preliminary. These moves and relocations, as well as the timing of such moves, need to be revisited over time as actual versus projected growth is tracked and staffing levels change. Each of the components of the FMP will require further fine-tuned analysis, detailed space needs programming and design efforts to move from master plan to implementation. Key findings of the FMP include space deficits within most buildings related primarily to recent and projected staff growth and to shortfalls in functional/operational areas in the Parks & Recreation, Police, and Public Works departments. Staff will present the process used to develop the FMP and the key outcomes identified as well as recommendations on next steps for implementation.
City Council – Special Study Session
Mon, Jan 22, 2024 at 7:00pm
3 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MEMO - 38th W Street Improvement Project
In March 2023, the city began a planning study of the 38th Avenue corridor between Youngfield Street and Kipling Street with the goals of improving the roadway to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists while still accommodating vehicular traffic as well as providing improved stormwater drainage. The study will combine public input with technical analysis to develop a recommended alternative for the corridor. The final deliverables will be conceptual plans and a preliminary cost estimate. Staff will provide the City Council with an update on the study. This memo summarizes the public outreach associated with Public Meeting #2 in October 2023. Staff is also seeking direction on a preferred direction in order to begin conceptual plan preparation.
Item No. 2 - MEMO - Council Rules of Order and Procedures
The Charter of the City of Wheat Ridge provides that the Council may determine its own rules of procedure for meetings. Section VII.B of these Rules states “These Rules may be amended, or new Rules adopted by a majority vote of City Council Members present at a Regular or Special Meeting, provided that the proposed amendments or new Rules shall have been submitted in writing to City Council at a preceding meeting or a Study Session. Any City Council Member, or the Mayor, may initiate an amendment of these Rules in the manner provided for initiation of Agenda Items by Rule V.D. These Rules shall be reviewed and revised by the City Council as needed and as provided for herein.” Attached are the current Rules, effective February 13, 2023. Council may consider amendments to these Rules at this time. In response to the antisemitic comments received at the November 13, 2023 City Council meeting, the City Attorney drafted the attached memo “Hate speech in the public forum: options for local governments.” Mr. Dahl provided several options for City Council to consider regulating the time, place and manner of public comment.
City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Jan 22, 2024 at 6:30pm
4 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1 - MOTION - appoint D IV PC Member
Approved
On November 9, 2023, Dan Larson from District IV resigned from the Planning Commission effective immediately, to accept a position as a City Council Member. The vacancy was posted on the City of Wheat Ridge web site and promoted through various channels from November 13 to January 12. Applications have been compiled for the Council’s review so that the seat may be filled.
Item No. 2 - RESO - Budget Amendment to accept CDPHE funds
Approved
The City received funding from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) Supplemental Environmental Program for Mile High Youth Corps work in 2024. The funding was received in 2023 after the 2024 budget was finalized. A budget supplemental is required to ensure the funds can be used in 2024 for fuel reduction work along the Greenbelt.
Item No. 3 - MOTION - purchase snowplow and sweeper
Approved
Each year, the city identifies a proposed list of vehicle replacements within the city fleet. In 2024, a snowplow truck and a street sweeper are scheduled for replacement. Staff recommends the purchase of a 2024 International snowplow truck, under a Colorado Department of Transportation agreement, at a cost of $159,617 and an Elgin street sweeper, under a Sourcewell Cooperative Agreement, at a cost of $357,898.
Planning Commission – Regular Meeting
Thu, Jan 18, 2024 at 6:30pm
2 Agenda Items
Virtual and in-person. Click for more information.
EV Parking and Charging
Pending
This ordinance creates regulations for electric vehicle (EV) parking and charging facilities within the zoning code, defines terms related to EVs, allows for EV charging facilities of various types throughout the City, and establishes minimum EV parking space requirements. There are currently no regulations related to EVs in Wheat Ridge and this ordinance will help the City get into compliance with state regulations.
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Bicycle Parking and Storage
Pending
The proposed ordinance creates long-term bicycle storage requirements for large multi-unit residential developments, updates and clarifies vehicle parking reduction allowances when additional bicycle parking is provided, and decouples bicycle parking requirements from vehicle parking requirements.
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City Council – City Council Meeting
Mon, Jan 8, 2024 at 6:30pm
12 Agenda Items
Virtual and In-Person
Public's Right to Speak
Item No. 1a - MOTION - purchase a chipper dump truck
Approved
Each year, the city identifies a proposed list of vehicle replacements within the city fleet. In 2024, the city’s chipper truck, utilized by the Parks, Forestry, and Open Space Division, is scheduled for replacement. Staff has located a new vehicle, which is already built, through a vendor in North Carolina. The total price of the vehicle is $107,700 based on a quote provided by Altec Industries, Inc.
Item No. 1b - MOTION - payment to CIRSA for Ins Premium
Approved
The Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency (CIRSA) provides property/casualty coverage for the City of Wheat Ridge. The total premium payment due for 2024 in quarterly payments is $529,539.55.
Item No. 1c - MOTION - approve CEBT employee benefits
Approved
The City offers employees a number of benefits in order to attract and retain a high quality workforce. In 2023, the City joined the Colorado Employer Benefit Trust (CEBT) to provide a greater choice of medical plans along with dental, vision, employee assistance program (EAP) and life insurance coverage. January through December billing is estimated and budgeted in the amount of $2,485,412. Staff requests approval of the estimated 2024 total expenditure so that monthly payments can be made in a timely manner.
Item No. 1d - RESO - amend ROW maintenance service contract
Approved
Terracare Associates LLC was awarded a contract for right-of-way (ROW) maintenance in 2023 through a formal solicitation process. The existing contract terms expired at the conclusion of December 2023. Terracare is requesting a 2% increase on the agreed upon 2023 rates for their first renewal period.
Item No. 2 - ORD - amend WR Code of Laws re LLA
Approved
City Council amended the City’s Boards and Commissions Code to create new regulations pertaining to term limits, unexcused absences, automatic removal, approximately equal district representation of board members, and Council’s ability to remove members among other things. While certain provisions extend to the Liquor Licensing Authority (LLA), amendments concerning term limits, district representation, and Council’s removal authority do not apply to the LLA. This ordinance will amend the Code to extend these provisions of the Boards and Commissions Code amendments to the Liquor Licensing Authority. Furthermore, it would establish that LLA members who move out of the district they were appointed to represent shall be removed in accordance with the process governing board and commissions members.
Item No. 3 - ORD - rezoning of property at 10390 W. 38th Ave
Approved
The owner of the property at 10390 W. 38th Avenue is requesting approval of a zone change from Commercial-One (C-1) to Mixed Use-Neighborhood (MU-N). The zone change will result in a zoning designation that would allow for the redevelopment and revitalization of the property.
Item No. 4 - ORD - vacate portion interest in 46th Ave
Approved
The City of Wheat Ridge holds rights-of-way (ROW) in trust for the public. A portion of right-of-way along the south side of W 46th Ave, located between Everett St and Estes St, has been deemed to be unnecessary by the Community Development Department.
Item No.5 - RESO - municipal bldg and website posting locale
Approved
State statutes require that each municipality annually establish the location for posting public notices, as well as the newspaper in which the notices will be published. Local government entities are also allowed to publish notices on-line for public meetings. These include meetings at which the adoption of any proposed policy, position, resolution, rule, regulation, or formal action occurs or at which a majority or quorum of body is in attendance.
Item No. 6 - RESO - levy 2023 taxes for 2024 budget
Approved
This resolution authorizes the levying of property taxes for the 2023 fiscal year to help defray the cost of government in 2024.
Item No. 7 - MOTION - contract for the Eco Development Plan
Approved
The current Economic Development Strategic Plan for the City is twelve years old. A request for proposals (RFP) was issued to solicit qualified firms to develop a new comprehensive Economic Development Strategic Plan. Twelve proposals were received and accepted as complete. City staff has evaluated the bids, and Progressive Urban Management Associates (PUMA) was selected as the most responsible and responsive bidder in the amount of $100,000.
Item No. 8 - RESO - IGA Longs Peak Metro for Trail Imprvmt
Approved
The Longs Peak Metropolitan District (LPMD) will be constructing a trail connection along the west side of Clear Creek Crossing with City funding. This Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) outlines the responsibilities of the City of Wheat Ridge and LPMD, as it pertains to funding and timing of the trail construction.