HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Minutes 10-25-21City Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 7500 WEST 29TH AVENUE, MUNICIPAL BUILDING
October 25, 2021
Note: This meeting was conducted both as a virtual meeting and hybrid, where some
members of the Council or City staff were physically present at the Municipal building, and
some members of the public attended in person as well. All eight members of Council
were present in Council Chambers for this session. Before calling the meeting to order,
Mayor Starker stated the rules and procedures necessitated by this meeting format.
Mayor Starker called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS
Janeece Hoppe Judy Hutchinson Zachary Urban Rachel Hultin
Amanda Weaver Korey Stites Leah Dozeman Valerie Nosler Beck
Also, present: City Attorney, Gerald Dahl; City Manager, Patrick Goff; City Clerk, Steve
Kirkpatrick; City Treasurer, Chris Miller; Community Development Director, Ken
Johnstone; Lauren Mikulak, Planning Supervisor; other staff, guests and interested
Members of the Public.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Without objection or correction, the Study Session Notes of October 4, 2021 and City
Council Minutes of October 11, 2021 were approved as published.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Without objection or correction, the agenda stood as announced.
PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES
Mayor Starker read and presented the Proclamations
Native American Heritage Month
The Proclamation addresses public awareness of the history, culture and sacrifices of
our indigenous people, also called the First Nations. The Mayor also highlighted the
many contributions of Native American Peoples to service in our armed forces. Six First
Nation peoples have connections to Wheat Ridge.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 2
Communities That Care
Sam Taylor, Jeffco Communities that Care Coordinator with the Jefferson Center;
Pamela Gould, Jeffco Communities that Care Coordinator with Jeffco Public Health;
Susan Anderson and June Beth, representing the WR Rec Center, came forward to
accept the proclamation. The City participates in a multi-governmental effort to support
the mental health and social development of our adolescent residents.
PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO SPEAK
Wes Johnson, 3595 Quail St. came to speak in support of re-election of Councilmember
Amanda Weaver. He recounted specific situations during which she has helped him
and why he will support her.
Jenny Shaver, 8835 W. 38th Avenue came to suggest that we have red-light and speed
cameras at certain more dangerous and frequently traveled intersections, especially
along our major corridors. She cited examples of nearby communities that have had
speed violation cameras and how those have positively impacted public safety.
George Pond, 1 Rangeview Drive came to thank the Council for adapting to these
challenging times. He recognized the Mayor and Council, City staff and volunteers who
have served with humility, prudence and balance. Amanda Weaver is an example of
such a servant leader, who has been a valued community leader for many years. I
served with her, beside her, and saw her in action. I strongly support her candidacy for
re-election to the City Council from District III.
David Land, 8730 W. 34th Avenue, came to support Amanda Weaver’s candidacy for re-
election to City Council. She is both fostering responsible development and working to
fulfill all of our housing needs. She has all the pieces necessary to succeed and benefit
us all. I support her re-election.
Kathleen Baccarini, 10745 W 35th Ave. Came to recount her experience working with
Councilmember Weaver when a huge half-pipe was built by her neighbors.
Councilmember Weaver attended all of the neighborhood meetings, seeking to find
mutually beneficial solutions. She put forward the proposal for a new ordinance to
regulate such structures and preserve our neighbors’ rights. I support her for re-election
to Council from District III.
Mary Fedje, 3465 Estes St., came to say that she is very grateful and pleased with the
direction of the City for the past several years. She expressed gratitude for Council’s
handling of the new marijuana law. However, we have had to circulate petitions twice to
undo zoning changes on Upham and on 38th Ave. I live one block from the Lutheran
Campus, and I want the City to listen to our citizens and mutually trust one another but
at present the City Council and staff are not trustworthy when it comes to development.
Stephanie Eble, 3225 Parfet St. This is my first involvement local government. I came
to highlight Amanda Weaver’s hard work on sustainable neighborhoods. She came to
see me when I emailed her, and I spent an hour discussing sustainability with her. I
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 3
was very grateful for Amanda’s responsiveness to our residents. That convinced me to
put my efforts behind Amanda. She is responsive and works with a lot of integrity.
Joy Opp, 46 Hillside Drive, came as the co-chair of Sustainable Wheat Ridge, to thank
Councilmember Amanda Weaver for her support and leadership in the area of
sustainability. I am very grateful for her leadership on sustainability, and I support her
candidacy for re-election.
Julie Scarlata, 10662 W. 35th Place, came to support Amanda Weaver’s campaign for
re-election to Council. Her work at Five Fridges Farm is an example of her commitment
to urban agriculture, environmental awareness and integrity. Her farm is more than a
business, it is a statement about urban agriculture. She is honest, works with integrity
and responsiveness. She read a statement from a neighbor who also supports
Councilmember Weaver’s re-election.
Amanda Rebel, 10762 W. 35th Place. As a proud district III resident and strong support
of Councilmember Amanda Weaver. She listens to me and educates me and then
tirelessly advocates for our neighborhood. She models ethical behavior. Amanda gives
and models respect, exhibits kindness, does her best and works tirelessly. I see
Amanda as a gifted honest Councilmember.
Kathy Plummer, 3 Twilight Drive came to support the candidacy for re-election of
Councilmember Amanda Weaver. She read a statement from Councilmember Korey
Stites, District III, who strongly supports his colleague’s re-election. Even through the
pandemic we worked together and moved things forward. We do not always agree, but
we work together for a common good. Ms. Plummer echoed Councilmember Stites
impressions of Councilmember Weaver and recounted her own experience working with
Councilmember Weaver. She strives to maintain the respect and dignity of all with
whom she works.
Kim Calomino, 4070 Dover St. Councilmember Amanda Weaver has proven to be a
conscientious, honest and admirable leader. Her dedication to our history and future is
clear. She strives to create a future we can all thrive in. She thanked Councilmember
Urban for his eight years of service to the City and his dedication to our wellbeing and to
the City’s future.
Rolly Sorrentino, 4175 Teller St. to say that the City Council has not represented the
citizens of Wheat Ridge recently. He cited the Upham, 38th Ave., and other zoning
changes that citizens opposed. The City Council and City staff are not listening to us as
they move forward developments that the residents oppose.
Vivian Vos, 6920 W. 47th. Place. I served on the Planning Commission with
Councilmember Weaver. I reapplied for appointment to the Planning Commission and
Councilmember Weaver stated from the dais that I was unfit and unqualified. I asked
her why she opposed my seating. She stated falsehoods and promised to find facts to
support her contentions. She has not. She thanked Councilmember Urban for his
service and responsiveness to District II residents.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 4
Donna Gimeno, 3575 Quail St., has lived in Wheat Ridge for 15 years. I have been a
public servant for 35 years. She knows how demanding this service is. She finds
Amanda Weaver well qualified for re-election.
Fred Gimeno, 3575 Quail St. He has always found Councilmember Amanda Weaver to
be a responsive, respectful and helpful servant. She helped us deal with a damaged,
partially fallen tree that was a clear and present danger to her house. She called
Councilmember Weaver and asked for her help, and she got action from Code
Enforcement quickly. He wanted an amicable solution without a confrontation with his
neighbor. The City resolved the situation to his satisfaction.
Janelle Shaver 8090 W. 35th Ave. Please, see that staff and the City Clerk time stamp
things properly and on time. Filings should be properly timestamped and duly posted in
the same manner for all. The time stamp is here, but not being used for the election.
My comments are not intended as a criticism but as a suggestion to run things more
smoothly. Some of the disagreements of late would have been avoided had the time
stamp been properly used.
Kim Ortal Hardi, 10240 W. 34th. Place. I have personally experienced Councilmember
Weaver’s opponent’s lack of integrity and his personal agenda. Ms. Weaver is the
opposite. She works with integrity and in good faith, and I support her re-election.
Saini Hardi, 10240 W. 34th. Place looked at Council candidate Figlus’ website for his
campaign and found several statements that he doubts are true. Mr. Figlus has tried to
dictate the size of my back yard, something he should not be able to do. He is driven by
his own needs and agenda and not the interest of our neighborhoods. I support
Councilmember Weaver’s candidacy for re-election
Note about Wheat Ridge Speaks:
Members of the Public may visit the Wheat Ridge Speaks website and enter
written comments of up to 1,000 words on any Council agenda item. The
deadline for members of the public to submit comments is 12:00 Noon Mountain
Time on the day of a Council session so that Council members, other elected
officials and City Staff have time to review the comments before the meeting on
Monday evening.
The City Clerk’s Office transcribes those Wheat Ridge Speaks comments into
these minutes, placing each comment along with the record for that agenda item,
including items that address a public hearing (verbatim, if the comments do not
contain lascivious language or unlawful hate speech). No one entered
comments in WR Speaks for this Council session.
1. CONSENT AGENDA
Discussion began at approximately 7:57 PM
Councilmember Nosler Beck introduced the consent agenda.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 5
a. Resolution No. 52-2021 – a resolution authorizing a building lease between
the City of Wheat Ridge and Concrete Works of Colorado for 7575 West 44th
Avenue
Issue
The City of Wheat Ridge owns the former Bank of the West building located at 7575 W.
44th Avenue (the Property). The City wishes to lease the building to Concrete Works of
Colorado (CWC) for the purposes of construction headquarters for the Improve
Wadsworth Project.
b. Motion to approve payments to Insight Public Sector in the amount of
$148,974.75 for the annual renewals of the Microsoft Enterprise Three-Year
Agreement
Issue
The City renewed its current three-year Microsoft Enterprise Agreement on October 1,
2021. The three-year renewal included an upgrade of the current on-premises license
and software package to Office 365 and Teams, inclusive of implementation and
support
c. Motion to cancel the November 1, 2021 study session of the Wheat Ridge
City Council due to Municipal Election
Issue
The City Council Study Session meeting of November 1, 2021 currently does not have
any scheduled agenda items. In order to provide time for the Mayor and City Council to
participate in election activities, the meeting will be canceled.
d. Motion to award a contract and approve subsequent payments of $88,907.73
annually to Terracide Associates LLC., of Centennial, Colorado, for right-of-
way maintenance services
Issue
This request is for approval of the Right-Of-Way Maintenance Service Contract. The
City currently contracts annually for mowing, weed prevention and mitigation, and trash
pickup in various rights-of-way areas. The total service area for this contract is around
34 acres. The scope of work includes year-round services, as and where needed. Staff
anticipates 5 cycles of chemical weed control, 7 cycles for mowing and trimming
services, and 12 cycles each for trash and debris removal and for sidewalk and median
cleaning.
Motion by Councilmember Nosler Beck to approve Consent Agenda Items a.), b.), c.)
and d.), Seconded by Councilmember Urban; motion carried 8-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING
2. Resolution No. 53-2021 - A Resolution Adopting the Lutheran Legacy
Campus Master Plan as an amendment to the City’s Comprehensive Plan,
Envision Wheat Ridge.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 6
Discussion began at approximately 8:02 pm
Councilmember Stites introduced Resolution No. 53-2021
Issue
The Lutheran Medical Campus is located in the heart of Wheat Ridge and has operated
as a medical use since 1905. A new Lutheran hospital is currently being constructed at
the Clear Creek Crossing development, and the hospital’s move presents a rare
opportunity to reimagine the future of the Lutheran Legacy Campus.
The Lutheran Legacy Campus Master Plan outlines a 20-year vision for the property
and is based on six months of input from Wheat Ridge community members. Because
the City’s 2009 Comprehensive Plan does not contemplate a potential change of use on
the property, adoption of this master plan is a critical next in starting a new chapter for
the property.
Mayor Starker opened the public hearing.
The Mayor reviewed the procedures. No citizens appeared in chambers to address this
issue. There were none who wanted to speak through the Zoom format.
City Attorney Dahl asked Councilmember Dozeman several questions related to her
employment at Lutheran Medical Center and based on her answers determined that she
may participate in the consideration and voting on this item.
Mr. Dahl asked Councilmember Urban questions related to his service on the Lutheran
Foundation Board and also found that he is free of any conflict of interest to participate
in consideration and vote on this agenda item.
Staff Presentation
Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director and Lauren Mikulak, Planning
Manager summarized the background of the facility where SCL Health currently owns
and operates the Lutheran Medical Center (LMC) at 8300 W. 38th Avenue. The
campus is about 100 acres in size, extending between W. 32nd Avenue and W. 38th
Avenue and between Allison and Dudley. While there are no public rights-of-way within
the property, this area is roughly equivalent to the size of 12 city blocks
Medical uses on the property significantly pre-date the City. The site began as the
Evangelical Lutheran Sanitarium in 1905, with numerous tents erected for the treatment
of tuberculosis patients. In 1961, Lutheran Hospital opened as a non-profit general
medical facility. In the 1970s, the site became known as the Lutheran Medical Center,
and services continued to expand with the construction of new buildings and additions
over the next 30 to 40 years.
City Council was first briefed on the idea of a master plan in November 2020, and the
formal process kicked off shortly thereafter with a contract award to MIG, Inc in January
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 7
2021. The public process began in May 2021 and has extended through October 2021
with a wide range of public input opportunities:
• April 16 – Stakeholder steering committee meeting
• May 1 – Public meeting #1 (on-site walking tour)
• May 6 – Planning Commission study session
• May 10 – City Council study session
• May 20 – Community focus group A meeting
• May 24 – Community focus group B meeting
• May 27 – Business/development focus group meeting
• June 10 – Public meeting #2 (virtual visioning session)
• June 10 to July 10 – Online visioning survey
• July 7 – Stakeholder steering committee meeting
• July 21 – Community focus group A meeting
• July 23 – Community focus group B meeting
• July 29 – Business/development focus group meeting
• August 3 – Public meeting #3 (in-person review of conceptual plans)
• August 3 to 10 – Online survey for conceptual plans
• August 16 – City Council study session
• August 19 – Planning Commission study session
• September 10 – Stakeholder steering committee meeting
• September 13 – Business/development focus group meeting
• September 22 – Public meeting #4 (open house review of final
recommendations/next steps)
• October 7 – Planning Commission public hearing
• October 25 – City Council public hearing
Public Comment
Note: More than 20 residents signed up to speak about this item. Exercising his duty
under the Council Rules, the Mayor limited all speakers on this item to 3 minutes.
Zoriana Morozewych, 3651 Ward Road, yields her 3 minutes to Carol Matthews.
Elise Brougham, 2545 Allison Ct., came to comment that there was no reason to hire
expensive consultants to create this Legacy Campus plan. Why did we not use the
Planning staff’s work? She emphasized that the City must remain true to its own plans.
We should only encourage developments that are aligned with the existing
neighborhoods. She spoke at length about her perception that the City Council that the
City government are not acting in concert with the will of our residents and have not for
many years.
Jenny Shaver, 8835 W. 32nd. Ave. Recounted her reasons for moving to WR, where we
have single-family and duplex properties without high density development. She
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echoed others concerns that the Lutheran Master Plan runs contrary to the Wheat
Ridge history and culture. The neighbors have not been adequately involved in the
planning of the Lutheran campus future. She also thanked Councilmembers Weaver
and Stites for listening at a recent District III meeting with residents.
Joshua Meyer, 8835 W. 32nd. Ave. I respect the elected officials and the process. I
hope your minds are still open to listening to our residents about this plan. The
Planning Commission did not listen to us; he commented that Commissioner Christine
Disney called WR the donut hole in the metro area. He almost took Umbridge to that
comment. I see WR as an oasis in the metro area. There are many, many housing
developments already and we do not need to include high density housing in our future.
I am in your District, Amanda Weaver, and I hope you will listen to me now.
George Pond, 1 Rangeview Drive. The process to design a master plan for Lutheran
Legacy Campus has been an open, robust and inclusive one. What we are discussing
tonight is not really a plan; it’s is a framework. I support the framework as proposed,
understanding that there are many steps, and much more input to be sought and
discussion to be had. The framework is smart, timely and it makes sense! It is
thoughtful of history, of context and of the present and future. I must say that we do not
have enough housing. Please, adopt this framework and continue our discussions.
Fred Linton 8865 W. 32nd. Place. I would like to see this plan move forward without the
high-density housing.
David Land, 8730 W. 34th Ave. My family moved one block away from Lutheran 20
years ago. We greatly appreciate the hospital, a great asset to our city and neighbors.
Since SCL has decided to move a new plan is essential. We support this plan as
presented. We need more affordable housing to encourage young families to move to
WR. High density should not scare us but encourage us to be more diverse and
inclusive.
Carol Matthews. The City has put our city up for sale to the highest developer bidder. Developers are contributing to our Councilmembers campaigns to get favorable consideration. The NRS showed that residents overwhelmingly oppose high-density housing. Yet, the City continues to bow to the needs of the developments. The
proposed plan would put 5000 residents on the Lutheran Legacy Campus. What will
that do to our traffic, to long lines in stores and will they shop online? When Clear Creek Campus was planned, we were promised that the Legacy Campus would not include high density housing. Do not be fooled again. Demand quality not quantity housing.
Marta Hedde, 7385 W. 28th Ave. I represent the WR Historical Society, and I came to respond to some inaccuracies in what I have heard. For example, some say none of these building have been designated as historically important. However, we are in the process of getting a National Historical Site designation for the Blue House. At least two other structures are also qualified for designation as historic landmarks.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 9
Fred Linton, 8835 West 32nd. Pl. came to make two points. First, let’s move this plan forward without the high-density housing. Second, I have a question for SCL Health. What will they do with their water rights to the flow of the small creek that flows through
their property?
Dave Land, 8730 W. 34th Ave. We have lived the past 20 years just two blocks from Lutheran Hospital. We have been to the emergency room a number of times; we like the hospital and are glad it’s there. Obviously, SCL has decided to move. We fully support this proposed plan. If we put 2000 sq. ft. houses across the entire ten acers,
we would have more housing like we already have, but nothing for people like my family
and me 20 years ago. We need housing that teachers, and firefighters and nurses can afford. I support the resolution. High density should not scare us.
Carol Matthews, (for six minutes; Ms. Morozewych yielded her 3 minutes to Ms. Matthews) 3851 Hoyt St. City Hall has put Wheat Ridge up for sale to the developers.
They are not just selling our land but our property rights and our personal rights. Many of our City Council candidates are getting huge donations from developers that are unmatched by other candidates. What do the developers expect in return. Seventy-two percent of the residents who responded to the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy survey said we do not want high density housing in our neighborhood. Lutheran is right
in the middle of our neighborhood. If Council approves this zoning change, there will be no rights for homeowners or property owners. We have witnessed this before in two other locations despite our opposition. This plan may house 5,000 people or more, with ten thousand cars. In high-density housing we will have a serious parking and traffic problem. We should attract a medical development, that we could benefit from. We do
not need high-density housing. Stand-up Wheat Ridge citizens and do not let them do this to us again.
Marta Hedde, 7385 W. 28th Ave. I represent the WR Historical Society. I provided a packet for Council before the deadline. At the past several meetings, someone has stated that none of the historical building on the Lutheran Campus has been designated
historical sites; why is that? Application has been made by History Colorado to designate the Blue House a National Historic Site. Once that happens, the State will follow. At that point, per Wheat Ridge Code, the designation will be automatically. It is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture and qualifies because of its longevity. We believe these historic building and the surrounding land should be a park.
Bob Brazell, 3830 Carr St., commented on the use of consultants vs. using the staff. Why we keep hiring outside consultants instead of having City staff do the work? I sold real estate for several years. You know that the appraiser work for the seller and the inspector for the buyer. MIG must work for SCL and must provide the best deal for
SCL. Why would you move the entire hospital onto new land? Someone is making a
killing at the expense of us residents. I do not want my neighborhood destroyed for the benefit of SCL Health.
Lucille Ray, 3230 Balsam St. I am one of the people who were not informed about this plan. I am unhappy that some of the developers are trying to make a killing. I am not in favor of any housing plan at this time because I have not seen what the developers plan
for this project. I am opposed to the current plan and oppose high rises and high-
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density housing. We neighbors of SCL have bent over backward to accommodate SCL in the past. I am opposed to high-, middle- and low-density housing because I do not know what the developers mean. I came here 50 years ago to avoid the urban high-
density housing in Denver. I oppose this plan and want more dialogue and study.
Kim Calomino, 4070 Dover St, I have lived for 25 years a few blocks from Lutheran. I am glad the community has a chance to give input to the plan, and I support the plan as presented. The community has had a robust process through which to give their input. I believe what is proposed an excellent representation of the Community’s vision. I
served on the Steering Committee and we heard often from the community during the
planning process. Let’s not cannibalize the existing commerce on 38th Ave. Let’s make sure that there is adequate buffering and traffic planning to help the adjacent neighborhood. Finally consider the future of our city. Some are using terms high density and high rise as fear terms. Let’s stop that now.
Sandy Nance 4097 Field Drive. Came to discuss the future of the beautiful chapel and Blue House, that the plan says will be preserved – but only if the adjacent development can offset the cost of preservation. Historic Landmark designation takes years. However, the City could hold a public hearing to designate these historic building for preservation. SCL could make a lot of friends if they would make the application to put
the historic buildings on City historic registry. The City should consider an historic district for that corner of the property.
Anne Brinkman, 7420 W. 34th Ave. I came to comment as a private citizen on the Rocky Mountain Ditch that flows through the Lutheran Campus. The ditch is not an amenity; it has a specific purpose. It’s intended use is as a utility. I am in favor of the
plan as submitted. Just wanted to point out that there are two ditches, not just the RM Ditch; there is also an agricultural ditch. I am glad we hired the consultants to build this plan and I am in favor of it.
Ihor Figlus, 9775 W. 36th. Ave. came to comment on the acquisition of SCL by
Intermountain Health. When the current hospital moves to Clear Creek Crossing, we
have an opportunity to take a different tact and create more jobs for people in Wheat Ridge. Intermountain is ranked 4th in the nation in innovative healthcare. We need to engage with Intermountain to determine if we can continue to use this campus for medical and rehabilitation purposes. We need to postpone this master plan and reach
out to Intermountain and get them involved in a conversation.
Janelle Shaver, 8090 W. 35th. Ave. (Six minutes with the 3 minutes yielded by Bob Kordiva). Please, reject or postpone this master plan because I see several flaws. The process was not robust. The efforts to involve the community have not been inclusive enough because they depend too much on social media and the City website. This is not the biggest outpouring of community involvement we have had; the Rec Center was.
We had meeting after meeting with residents and constructed a list of what people wanted in the new Rec Center. We have no such list. We should pursue community farms, like communities nearby. The Council decides what kind of housing density we will have through zoning, not the developers. We do not have to do something that earns the developers a lot of money; your job is to protect residents’ interest. We do not
need to move to a new city hall to Lutheran because this very building was built on deep
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pilings to allow for up to a 5-story building. We need to respect all of the neighborhoods to not only the north but also the west and the east. The current plan leaves commercial development wanting in favor of high-density housing.
Rollie Sorrentino, 4175 Teller St. He recalls when the Lutheran property was full of
wildlife as an open space. Yet he has not heard one alternative to the proposed plan that ought to be considered. What will happen at Clear Creek Crossing when they move? I believe SCL will need the space on the Legacy Campus.
Rosemarie Bowden, 3535 Dudley St. When SCL moves to Clear Creek Crossing, we
will not have access to quality healthcare because the new facility will not be accessible or large enough. We need more outpatient care, and we need to delay this plan until we know what is happening with the merger of SCL and Intermountain. I beg you not to change the zoning.
Daniel Findlay. 3375 Dudley St. He wanted everyone to know that he only learned
about the planning process by word of mouth. The current plan involves a lot more than
housing but does not indicate how many residences per acre. Where will the new residents park? How much more traffic will this create? You have not done enough to engage the neighborhoods, and this plan does not have enough detail, enough specifics for us to move forward. His wife, who was not further identified, supported his
comments. She wants more input than she has had the chance to give. She is very
concerned about what the developers really want to do.
Julie Stern, 7630 W 38th Avenue. I appreciate the City and SCL’s effort to bring intentionality to the plans for the future of the Lutheran Campus. The proposed plan includes new uses of the land, for commercial and residential uses, and I think this a
good plan. We are a young family. We see too many young families opt to move elsewhere because there is no housing that meets their needs that they can afford. I am really excited to see this plan come to fruition and I urge Council to approve it.
Lindsay Burney, 3880 Garrison St. Change is sometimes scary, but it can also be exciting. My neighbors and I are very excited about what this plan will provide for us.
We could enjoy walking or cycling to the green space and perhaps visiting a business. I support this plan and urge Council to adopt this framework as a starting point. Smart developers understand what Wheat Ridge wants in new housing and will plan accordingly.
The Mayor closed public comment and thanked all those who came to give their input
this evening.
Meeting recessed until 10:00 pm.
Council Questions and comments
Councilmember Stites asked staff to recount the opportunities the public to give input to
the Master Plan. Ms. Mikulak and MIG gave a detailed answer.
He also asked who is paying the fees for consultant MIG and to whom they are
accountable. Staff and Mr. Chung, SVP at Lutheran, recounted why SCL helped defray
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 12
the cost of the consultants. Mr. Johnstone commented that the City needed financial
help to defray such a large project cost.
Then Councilmember Stites asked whether this plan, if adopted tonight, would foreclose
SCL from choosing to use the legacy site for outpatient care. Ms. Mikulak said that no,
it does not. Then he asked if the plan is adopted tonight, when would any zoning
change come before Council and when would groundbreaking occur? MIG and Ms.
Mikulak replied that that will take years. It will be at least 2024 before the hospital
moves. Previous, similar processes have taken as long as 9 years.
Councilmember Stites also asked what next steps would involve. Ms. Mikulak replied in
detail.
Councilmember Dozeman asked what this process would have been like without the
community involvement steps we have undertaken. Staff gave a detailed answer.
Councilmember Hoppe asked if duplexes are considered low-, mid- or high-density?
Ms. Mikulak replied that those terms are used indistinctly, and their meaning varies.
About 4-5 houses per acer is generally considered low-density.
Councilmember Nosler Beck asked for staff to explain the process of obtaining an
historical designation. Mr. Johnstone gave a detailed answer.
Councilmember Hultin recalled several comments about ensuring open space and
green space, and asked how we can be assured that open/green space will be
included? Again, staff gave a detailed answer. She then asked whether any
developers have been approached about this project. Mr. Johnstone explained that a
few were included in focus groups, but none are engaged in any discussions about this
project. No developers are engaged in any specific discussions about the property.
Councilmember Hultin then asked for comments on the economic model that will be
applied here in terms of jobs, housing costs and commercial enterprises. MIG gave a
professional opinion and discuss the current thinking.
Councilmember Urban asked how the rezoning usually occurs. MIG replied that usually
the rezoning comes first. He asked that a future Study Session engage SCL in a
process of looking at pursuing an historic designation.
Councilmember Urban then suggested we engage in that process as soon as
practicable in what will surely be a multi-year process. He suggested a consensus that
City council supports a resolution to keep the Blue House, the permanent tent and the
Chapel as historic landmarks. Consensus Attained.
Councilmember Weaver thanked those who brought forth the issue of flowing water on
the site.
Councilmember Hutchinson is in favor of including the Chapel along with the Blue
House in any effort to preserve them as historic sites. She then asked for a concrete
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 13
definition of “affordable housing.” Staff replied that there is no generally accepted
definition because it varies so widely based on so many variables and factors that what
is affordable in one locale is not affordable in another area. She also asked about a
definition of low density.
Councilmember Hoppe asked whether there will be some kind of housing design
standard for locations near the perimeter of the Legacy Campus with variability as we
get deeper into the center of the campus. Ms. Mikulak replied that a set of criteria
would necessarily have to be included in the proposed development plan.
Councilmember Hultin asked for an explanation of how the different interested groups
were recruited, how their input was collected and compiled during the planning process.
MIG gave a detailed answer.
The Mayor closed the public hearing and asked for a motion.
Motion by Councilmember Stites to approve Resolution 53-2021 – a resolution
adopting the Lutheran Legacy Campus Master Plan as an amendment to the City’s
Comprehensive Plan, Envision Wheat Ridge, seconded by Councilmember Urban.
The following discussion of the motion ensued:
Councilmember Dozeman thanked staff, MIG and our community for their participation
and hard work on this Master Plan. She will vote for the adoption of the Plan. She
emphasized that this action tonight is not a rezoning.
Councilmember Hoppe thanked Councilmember Dozeman and commented that this is
the beginning of considering many different approaches and plans in the coming years.
We need to continue this process and allow our residents to continue with even more
involvement in the next phases of this process. She also reminded everyone that we
have tools in our zoning process to protect against wild developer plans.
Councilmember Stites thanked everyone who participated whether they feel like the
outcome is what they hoped or not. Please, remember that this process will be ongoing
for 10-15 years. Going forward, everyone who has an opinion, or a desire, will have
ample opportunity in the coming years to have their desires and concerns heard.
Councilmember Urban commented that in 1902 when Lutheran was purchased, we had
trollies on 38th Avenue. We need to have a long-term perspective and keep involved in
the process. We know that some will be disappointed, but please, stay involved.
Councilmember Hultin opined that we have a diversity of viewpoints and opinions with
respect to the Legacy Campus. When she first came to Council, there was the view
that you were either right or wrong. We need to celebrate the engagement we have
seen, and this project will reflect the evolving yet legacy nature of Wheat Ridge-ness.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 14
Councilmember Hutchinson has read the comments on Wheat Ridge Speaks and
commented that it is important that we continue to listen to those who are opposed, and
we should pause this process.
During this discussion and deliberation two proposed amendments to the main motion
failed for lack of a second.
After further discussion and deliberation, the motion carried 7-1, Councilmember
Hutchinson voting nay.
Clerk’s Note: Per Council Rules, Sec. G, 2 (a) a ¾ majority of the Councilmember
present is required to continue a Council meeting past 11:00 p.m. and consider the
remaining items on the agenda. The Mayor asked for a motion.
Motion by Councilmember Hoppe to continue addressing the remaining items on the
agenda, this evening. Motion passed 8-0.
3. Council Bill No. 18-2021 - An Ordinance amending Chapter 11 of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws by the addition of a new Article XIV entitled Hotel
Licenses and in connection therewith, adding reference to extended stay
lodging in Chapter 26 use schedules.
Discussion began at approximately 11:08 pm
Councilmember Dozeman introduced Council Bill 18-2021.
Issue
Within the City of Wheat Ridge there are presently nine hotels with a total of
approximately 972 rooms. While these nine hotels represent less than .05% of the total
number of households and businesses in the City, the calls for service from the City’s
Police Department to these establishments constitute approximately 10% of the total
police calls. This ordinance will create a licensing program for hotels and require
minimal amenities to provide safe and healthy environments for persons relying upon
short-term and extended stay housing in Wheat Ridge.
Mayor Starker opened the public hearing.
Councilmember Nosler Beck disclosed a business relationship with the American Hotel
at arm’s length. In consultation with the City Attorney, she will not recuse herself.
The Mayor reviewed the procedures. No citizens appeared in chambers to address this
issue. There were none who wanted to speak through the Zoom format.
City Clerk Kirkpatrick assigned Ordinance No. 1723
Staff Presentation
Patrick Goff, City Manager, Jim Lorentz, Division Chief, and Jerry Dahl, City Attorney
summarized the prior actions and background of the bill where the City’s interest in
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 15
considering these new regulations is for the protection of the health and safety of the
public. The intent of this ordinance is two-fold: 1) require motels that are providing
lodging services of less than 30 days to meet certain minimum standards for public
safety and health and 2) require motels that are providing extended stay services of 30
days or more to meet certain minimum standards for public safety and health and to
provide certain amenities to ensure extended stay units are livable. Staff believes if
these minimum standards are met, criminal activity and calls for service to these motels
will decrease over time.
Chief Murtha presented his thoughts and data on the need for this ordinance as a
matter of public health and safety. He noted that the few hotels and motels in the City
account for 10% of all calls for service to the WRPD, a percentage that is consistently
growing. Our hotel district is simply a nexus of drug abuse and sales, prostitution,
human trafficking and related nefarious activity.
Public Comment
Ryan Sugden, 1144 15th St. Denver, an attorney representing the American Motel. We
have already discussed some concerns, but 3 points need to be made. The notion that
the management of the motels are somehow responsible for the misbehavior on their
properties is illogical. Second, the staff are put at risk if we have a limit on the number
of calls for police service in order to keep our license. How can the property managers
ameliorate calls for trespassing or public intoxication? The other issue we want to raise
is that management is not allowed to discriminate against anyone who wants to rent a
room. What would you have management do? Should a property be punished for
being proactive?
He then addressed the extended stay provision in the ordinance, and the high cost of
complying. There is a market and a need for extended stays. This looks like a solution
looking for an issue. Limiting extended stay will result in more calls for service not
fewer.
We need more dialogue with the management of the owners before we have an
ordinance that makes it impossible to stay in business.
Don White, 3737 S. Independence St. in Missouri. We have been in business in WR
since 1988. Every day 24 hours a day, we fight trespassers; today, we had 13 people
outside our property on the parking lot who were obviously using drugs, drinking or
otherwise in need of help. We had an incident today when the WRPD sent four officers
descend on our parking lot because they were apprehending a suspect brandishing a
machete. Stop this intimidation and come to a round table and let’s discuss this
problem.
Denise Mas, representing the American Motel and a collation of homeless advocates.
The call for service metric punishes the hotels and motels who call for service. If you
call for the police, you will lose your business license. This proposed ordinance is bad
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 16
public policy and contrary to community policing principles. Too often some calls for
service for suspicious vehicles and suspicious persons are code for racist discomfort.
Further, a wellness check call for service is not about criminal activity. Whether it is the
intent or not, a call for service metric has the impact of creating more problems than it
solves.
Sandy Monks 11010 Service Road, manager of the American Motel. She asserted that
extended stay issues are not a financial incentive; we would make much more money
on one- or two-night stays. You should see the things we have to deal with every day.
Wheat Ridge has changed, and these problems are not our making. Please, do not
pass this ordinance.
Mr. Kohlmeyer, 4845 W. 45th Avenue. The timeline in this ordinance will be nearly
impossible for the property owners to meet. You cannot find the contractors or
materials. Some of the other requirements make no sense.
Council Questions and comments
Councilmember Hoppe asked for clarification of the separate bedroom requirement in
the extended stay part of the proposed ordinance. Mr. Johnstone gave a response; it
need not be a separate room with a door but a separate space.
She then asked about the three phases of crime free hotel designation; how long would
it take a property to comply. Chief Murtha gave a specific answer. She asked for
specifics of the construction requirements for fencing, etc. and how that will impact
properties. Mr. Goff gave a detailed answer, including a deadline of June 30, 2022.
Councilmember Hoppe asked if it would be within the language of the ordinance to
allow a property to gradually transform its rooms to meet the extended stay
requirements. Mr. Dahl gave a detailed response.
Councilmember Hoppe asked when the calls for service provision would begin; Mr. Goff
replied with details.
Councilmember Stites asked what the differences are among the three properties with
high call for service metrics, vs. the remaining WR hotels and motels with significantly
fewer calls by that same metric. Chief Murtha provided a detailed reply. The chief also
stated that the WRPD will not report calls for service that the police initiate in the area of
a property to artificially inflate the calls for service statistics. In a similar vein if a guest
and the manager both call for the same issue, then that is not two calls.
Councilmember Nosler Beck asked about the fairness, the objectivity of calls for service
metrics, in terms of solving the problem we are addressing. Chief Murtha responded in
detail about the experience with these metrics in other municipalities.
Councilmember Dozeman asked how the City determined that 1.5 calls per service per
room was the correct level of that metric. Chief Murtha responded in detail with the
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 17
basis for that determination. Councilmember Dozeman asked if any other hotels or
motels who object to this ordinance. Mr. Goff replied with the requested information.
Councilmember Hultin asked to see the slide from Chief Murtha’s presentation that
explains the calculation of the metrics proposed. She also asked about the impact of
the pandemic on calls for service data. Chief Murtha replied that calls for service have
risen in 2021 from 2020, and at the hotels the number of calls is rising even faster.
Councilmember Nosler Beck asked if we could come back and revisit the statistics on
calls for service. Mr. Goff and Chief Murtha agreed that they will work with the
properties monthly to review progress and calibrate the metrics to Wheat Ridge.
Mayor Starker closed the public hearing.
Motion by Councilmember Dozeman to approve Council Bill 18-2021 – An Ordinance
amending Chapter 11 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws by the addition of a new Article
XIV entitled Hotel Licenses and in connection therewith, adding reference to Extended
Stay Lodging in Chapter 26 use schedules, and that it take effect 15 days after final
publication, seconded by Councilmember Urban.
Councilmember Hoppe proposed an amendment to the motion, seconded by
Councilmember Stites, to make the following changes to the proposed ordinance
language:
In 11-508 D,2 Change common area amenities minimum from 4 to 3.
In 11-509 add #5 Council shall review every 18 months
In 11-504 A, change CFS from 1.5 to 1.8 for the year of 2022 and shall be decreased to 1.5 in
2023 and the following years.
In 11-509 4 change June 30, 2022 to September 30,2022
Amendment passed 8-0.
Following passage of the Amendment, the amended main motion passed 8-0.
Councilmember Urban commented on the main motion that while this is an imperfect
solution, we have to deal with the problems presented.
4. Council Bill No. 17-2021 - An Ordinance approving the rezoning of property
located at 4535 Wadsworth Boulevard from Residential-Two (R-2) to Mixed
Use-Neighborhood (MU-N) (Case. No. WZ-21-05)
Discussion began at approximately 12:43 a.m. October 26, 2021
Councilmember Hultin introduced Council Bill 17-2021
Issue
The applicant is requesting approval of a zone change from Residential-Two (R-2) to
Mixed Use-Neighborhood (MU-N) for property located at 4535 Wadsworth Boulevard.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 18
The zone change will result in a zoning that matches surrounding zoning designations,
as well the character of the Wadsworth Corridor.
Mayor Starker opened the public hearing.
The Mayor reviewed the procedures. No citizens appeared in chambers to address this
issue. There were none who wanted to speak through the Zoom format.
City Clerk Kirkpatrick assigned Ordinance No. 1724
Staff Presentation
Zareen Tasneem, Planner I presented that the property is located on the west side of
Wadsworth Boulevard between W. 44th Avenue and W. 47th Avenue. Wadsworth
Boulevard is one of Wheat Ridge’s main north-south arterials, with the Improve
Wadsworth Project slated to start construction in fall 2021. Land for right-of-way
dedication along the eastern property line was acquired from this property as part of the
project.
The applicant is requesting the property be rezoned to MU-N, a zone district intended to
provide medium density mixed-use development. In addition to residential and office
uses, it allows for a range of neighborhood-serving commercial and retail uses. The
applicant intends to rezone the property in order to allow uses that are more consistent
with the current land use patterns on the Wadsworth Corridor and future potential
conditions of Wadsworth due to the Improve Wadsworth Project.
Public Comment
No one came forward to speak.
Council Questions and comments
What is the zoning for the property immediately north of the subject property? R-2.
Why is a church zoned residential? The zoning was inherited from the county.
Mayor Starker closed the public hearing.
Motion by Councilmember Hultin to approve Council Bill 17-2021 – An Ordinance
approving the rezoning of property located at 4535 Wadsworth Boulevard from
Residential-Two (R-2) to Mixed Use-Neighborhood (MU-N) (Case. No. WZ-21-05), on
second reading, and that it takes effect 15 days after final publication, for the following
reasons:
1. The Planning Commission has recommended approval of the rezoning after
conducting a proper public hearing.
2. The proposed rezoning has been reviewed by the Community Development
Department, which has forwarded its recommendation of approval.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 19
3. The proposed rezoning has been found to comply with the criteria for review in
Section 26-603 of the Code of Laws
Seconded by Councilmember Urban, motion carried 8-0.
ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING
Discussion began at approximately 12:49 AM
5. Council Bill No. 19-2021 - An Ordinance approving the rezoning property
located at 6011 W. 44th Avenue from Restricted Commercial (R-C) to Mixed
Use – Commercial (MU-C) (Case No. WZ-21-07)
Councilmember Urban introduced Council Bill 19-2021.
ISSUE
The applicant is requesting approval of a zone change from Restricted Commercial
(RC) to Mixed Use-Commercial (MU-C) for property located at 6011 W. 44th Avenue.
The zone change will result in a zoning that more accurately reflects surrounding
conditions and other nearby zoning designations.
Motion by Councilmember Urban to approve Council Bill No. 19-2021 - an ordinance
approving the rezoning of property located at 6011 W. 44th Avenue from Restricted
Commercial (RC) to Mixed Use-Commercial (MU-C) on first reading, order it published,
public hearing set for Monday, November 22, 2021 at 7 p.m. as a virtual meeting and in
City Council Chambers if allowed to meet in person on that date per COVID-19
restrictions, and that it take effect 15 days after final publication, seconded by
Councilmember Stites, motion carried 8-0.
6. Council Bill No. 20-2021 - An Ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws concerning letter notice to property owners and
occupants for development applications (Case No. ZOA-21-03)
Councilmember Hutchinson introduced Council Bill 20-2021.
ISSUE
The City’s zoning code has specific letter notice requirements for development
applications including for neighborhood meetings, comment periods, and in advance of
public hearings. For most mailings, the code only requires that mailings are sent to
property owners which excludes other stakeholders, such as renters or business
tenants. This ordinance expands letter notice for development applications to include
owners and occupants to provide more inclusive information sharing in the community.
Motion by Councilmember Hutchinson to approve Council Bill No. 20-2021 - an
ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning letter
notice to property owners and occupants for land use applications, on first reading,
order it published, public hearing set for Monday, November 8, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. as a
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 20
virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers if allowed to meet in person on that date
per COVID-19 restrictions, and that it take effect 15 days after final publication,
seconded by Councilmember Urban, motion carried 8-0
CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS
Mr. Goff had nothing further.
CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS
Nothing tonight.
ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS
City Clerk Kirkpatrick reminded voters that it is too late to mail your ballot; please, use a drop box.
Councilmember Nosler Beck thanked Mr. Urban for his mentorship and eight years of outstanding service as a Councilmember.
Councilmember Dozeman thanked Local Works for their work and for the Lutheran Fall Festival held recently. She bid a fond farewell to Councilmember Urban.
Councilmember Hutchinson thanked Councilmember Urban for his long-standing service to the City.
Councilmember Hultin thanked those who made a recent urban agriculture event
successful, including Ms. Mikulak for her staff support. We are productively tapping into something already strong in this community. She thanked Councilmember Urban for his long-standing service to the District and the City.
Councilmember Stites thanked those who came and stayed tonight. He also acknowledged those who worked to make the Trunk or Treat event held recently such a
big success. He thanked Councilmember Urban for his work for the City. You will be missed, Councilmember Urban.
Councilmember Hoppe recognized Councilmember Urban especially for his ability and skill for reading contracts. You have been a good leader on this dais.
Councilmember Urban stated he has been honored to serve, and to serve with the
current Councilmembers. Move forward by working together to create a better future for the City. He thanked Mr. Goff and Mr. Dahl for their hard work and help. I could not have asked for a better last meeting, as it lasted two days.
The Mayor visited the Harvest Festival and enjoyed it. He thanked those who attended tonight and engaged in the dialogue. He thanked Councilmember Urban for his hard
work and collegial approach.
Please, remember to drive carefully and safely!
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 1:08 a.m. on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.
City Council Minutes October 25, 2021 page 21
_____________________________ Steve Kirkpatrick, Deputy City Clerk
APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL ON December 13, 2021.
______________________________
Janeece Hoppe, Mayor Pro Tem
The preceding Minutes were prepared according to §47 of Robert’s Rules of Order, i.e., they
contain a record of what was done at the meeting, not what was said by the members.
Recordings and DVD’s of the meetings are available for listening or viewing by contacting the
City Clerk’s Office, as well as copies of Ordinances and Resolutions