HomeMy WebLinkAboutStudy Session Agenda Packet 08-17-20STUDY SESSION AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO August 17, 2020 6:30 p.m. This meeting will be conducted as a VIRTUAL MEETING. No members of the Council or City staff will be physically present at the Municipal building for this meeting; the public may not attend in person. The public may participate in these ways: 1. Provide comment in advance at www.wheatridgespeaks.org (comment by noon on August 17, 2020)
2. Virtually attend and participate in the meeting through a device or phone:
• Click here to join and provide public comment
• Or call +1-669-900-6833 with Access Code: 974 9198 0937 3. View the meeting live or later at www.wheatridgespeaks.org, Channel 8, or YouTube Live at https://www.ci.wheatridge.co.us/view
4. Individuals who, due to technology limitations, are unable to participate in the meeting virtually (via the Zoom platform) or by calling in on the telephone may contact Danitza Sosa, Assistant to the Mayor and City Council, at 303-235-2977 by noon on the day of the meeting. Arrangements will be made for those individuals to access City Hall
during the meeting to view the meeting and provide public comment if desired. These comments will be heard and seen in real time by members of Council and City staff. Individuals accessing City Hall must practice social distancing, wear a mask or other facial covering and be free of COVID-19 symptoms.
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Contact the Public Information Officer at 303-235-2877 or
wrpio@ci.wheatridge.co.us with as much notice as possible if you are interested in
participating in a meeting and need inclusion assistance.
Citizen Comment on Agenda Items
1. City Treasurer Investment Update (verbal update - no backup materials included
in this agenda packet)
2. 2021 Budget Requests – Localworks, Wheat Ridge Business District, Carnation Festival and Sustainable Wheat Ridge
3. Homeless Navigator Intergovernmental Agreement
4. Staff Report(s)
5. Elected Officials’ Report(s) ADJOURNMENT
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager
FROM: Allison Scheck, Administrative Services Director
DATE: August 17, 2020
SUBJECT: 2021 Budget Requests – Localworks, Wheat Ridge Business District, Carnation Festival and Sustainable Wheat Ridge
ISSUE: Representatives from Localworks, Wheat Ridge Business District, Carnation Festival and Sustainable Wheat Ridge will present each organization’s 2021 budget request to City Council for consideration.
PRIOR ACTION: Representatives from each organization presented to City Council on August 24, 2019 for the 2020 budget. Council’s consensus moved each organization’s contribution into the 2020 proposed budget.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The 2021 budget request per organization is as follows: Localworks - $486,000 Wheat Ridge Business District - $90,000
Carnation Festival - $75,000 Sustainable Wheat Ridge - $25,500
MEMO PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Allison Scheck – Administrative Services Director Patrick Goff - City Manager
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Localworks Budget Request
2. Wheat Ridge Business District Budget Request3. Carnation Festival Budget Request4.Sustainable Wheat Ridge Budget Request
Item No. 2
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 1
ATTACHMENT 1
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Kate Cooke, Executive Director, Localworks
Date: Monday August 17, 2020
RE: Localworks: 2020 Accomplishments and 2021 Budget Proposal
History and Background
Localworks and the City of Wheat Ridge share a long-standing partnership in the revitalization,
beautification, and engagement of the Wheat Ridge community. Through this partnership, Localworks
has implemented business loan programs, home loan programs, community engagement events,
educational events, and community clean up and beautification projects. In the last three years, this
investment has resulted in 3 business improvement loans, 12 clean up days, 25 dumpster grants, 62
community events, 8 regionally significant events to promote Wheat Ridge as an economically vital
destination, and 12 events to train and empower residents and future leaders. Localworks brings
together over 200 active community volunteers and over 2,400 members to leverage resources to
create a vibrant and sustainable community that positions and promotes all the things that make Wheat
Ridge a great place to live, work, and play.
2020 Accomplishments
As COVID-19 started to impact our community, we quickly re-framed our 2020 work plan to focus on
ways to support our businesses and connect our community safely through virtual and in-person events.
Partnerships have been key in these efforts and we have partnered closely with the City, our business
groups, and local and regional partners all with the goal of supporting and promoting our community.
The following is a brief snapshot of these accomplishments:
● In late March, Localworks launched the Business Adapt-ABILITY loan program. This loan
program assisted eleven businesses in quickly adapting their business models to meet the
impacts of COVID19. This loan program was funded from the Localworks investment account.
● Applied for and received a Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan that resulted in a cost savings
of 18% of our 2020 budget related to staff and rent.
● Assisted the City of Wheat Ridge with the Business Stabilization Grant Program and the Business
Re-Opening Assistance Program.
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 2
● Implemented virtual community engagement events which included the Community Coffee
Break, Home on the Ridge, Wheat Ridge Bingo, and Wheat Ridge Scavenger Hunt.
● Safely managed in-person community engagement efforts including TLC Clean Up Days and
Movies on the Ridge.
● While the Criterium and Brewfest was cancelled due to public health orders, Localworks
promoted our local business sponsors within the community.
● Developed new programs – Chalk of the Town, Community Walking/Audio Tour using a mobile
app (underway), and a volunteer database (underway).
● Beautified the Wheat Ridge community through the TLC program which includes three Clean Up
Days and ongoing dumpster grants.
● Celebrated the Wheat Ridge community with Ridgefest De-Constructed.
2021 Budget Proposal
The 2021 budget proposal for Localworks is based on continuing and expanding our efforts related to
promoting and positioning Wheat Ridge as a great place to live, work and play. Our programs are
specifically designed to engage the community in a meaningful and productive manner, connect our
residents with each other, connect our businesses with our residents, and celebrate the uniqueness of
Wheat Ridge.
This budget proposal represents a 6% decrease from Localworks’ approved 2020 budget and a decrease
from the approved 2019 budget. This decrease is the result of a reduction in staff costs, reductions in
operating costs, an upcoming relocation of our offices to co-house at the Senior Resource Center, and a
plan to increase fundraising and sponsorships going forward. We are also working on several grant
applications related to our 2021 programs.
Relocating our offices to co-house with the Senior Resource Center represents a terrific opportunity for
Localworks to enhance our programs related to seniors and assist in efforts that allow our seniors to age
in place in their homes here in Wheat Ridge. Additionally, co-housing our offices at the Senior Resource
Center will allow us to assist the Senior Resource Center in programming the Historic Firehouse for
community events and art related events. We are very excited about this opportunity.
Following is an overview of the budget consideration and proposal. Our programming for 2021 will
promote and position Wheat Ridge as a community of choice for living, working, shopping and playing.
Our focus will continue to be on making connections – connecting residents to our local businesses to
grow economic vitality here in our community and connecting residents to one another with the goal of
enhancing the sense of community here in Wheat Ridge.
The proposed budget for 2021 is $486,000 which includes $50,000 specifically dedicated to business and
home improvement loans (BUBL and HIP loan programs) which results in an allocation of $436,000 for
programs to promote and support the Wheat Ridge community. The following is a summary of the
budget categories and relationship to adopted goals outlined in the City Council Strategic Plan.
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 3
1. Core Localworks Programs – $214,000
Localworks’ core programs represent the bulk of our work and focus on connecting residents to one
another and connecting residents to our local businesses, positioning and promoting the City of Wheat
Ridge, empowering businesses, and beautifying our neighborhoods. Creating the connection between
businesses and residents is where Localworks truly excels. Core Localworks Programs include:
1a. Live Local Wheat Ridge
1b. Communications, Education, and Outreach
1c. Positioning and Promotion of Wheat Ridge
1d. Business (BUBL) and Home Improvement (HIP) Loans
1e. Block Improvement Program – TLC Wheat Ridge, known as Traffic Safety, Life Quality, and Crime
Reduction in Wheat Ridge
1a. Live Local Wheat Ridge - $50,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations.
● Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
o Goal 2: Provide support to existing commercial areas.
o Goal 3: Proactively identify emerging redevelopment areas.
● City Vision Topic 8: Wheat Ridge residents enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle
Live Local Wheat Ridge provides regularly scheduled community building events which connect
residents to one another and connect residents with our local businesses to build a stronger community.
Events focus on active living, arts, culture and urban agriculture and provide unique opportunities for
local businesses to reach new and existing customers. These events are extremely popular with
residents and result in a substantial reach on social media channels. Our Live Local messaging has
reached Facebook and Instagram users 3,667 times this year. This reach amplifies the in-person
connection with those throughout the community and also establishes connections with visitors outside
of Wheat Ridge. The events promote the unique character of the businesses in Wheat Ridge and build
identity for the community.
This year, we connected with 2 businesses to facilitate 2 in-person Live Local events which resulted in 41
community member engagements. When the pandemic caused shut-downs, we shifted our
programming to a virtual platform and began the Home on the Ridge program. This unique program
highlighted our Wheat Ridge businesses and community members and offered them the opportunity to
connect with residents virtually and continue to tell their story to the community. Home on the Ridge
ran for nine weeks with each week having a specific topic. In all, fourteen Wheat Ridge businesses and
community members were showcased and promoted. Our Home on the Ridge business participants
included Wheat Ridge Poultry and Meats, the Craft Box, Cosmos Dog Bakery, Southwest Gardens and
more. Our Home on the Ridge messaging reached social media users 23,701 times.
In 2021, the Live Local program will continue to connect our local businesses and residents.
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 4
1b. Communications, Education, Outreach – $52,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting city
● City Vision Topic 2: Wheat Ridge is a community for Families.
o Goal 2: Provide Options for Seniors to age in place
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations
● City Vision Topic 7: Wheat Ridge residents are proud of their hometown.
o Goal2: Create additional opportunities for meaningful citizen engagement.
o Goal 3: Increase public participation in city-wide meetings.
Communication, education and outreach are our primary tools used to engage residents, increase
participation in the community, and enhance the sense of community connection here in Wheat Ridge.
In 2020, Localworks worked closely with the City of Wheat Ridge to launch a new civics academy which
will build on the successes of the Wheaties Academy. This program will allow for significant education
related to how the City of Wheat Ridge operates, how to engage with neighbors in an effective and
respectful manner, and empower participants to share this knowledge with their neighbors. The first
academy will commence this fall and the program is anticipated to be an annual event. Localworks is a
full partner in this program and will assist with programming and discussion sessions.
In early 2020, we hosted our Community Open House utilizing a new format. This updated event took
place at Seyfer Specialties and brought in 68 attendees. The evening’s program included a lively
presentation from Troy Seyfer that provided history and information about Seyfer Specialties.
Attendees also received important local updates including information about economic development
projects from Steve Art and information about Wheat Ridge Speaks from Sara Spaulding. Moving
forward into 2021, this program will continue and will be offered as a way to increase opportunities to
educate and inform the community about issues, programs, and opportunities in Wheat Ridge
Developing a more civically engaged community is a core goal for Localworks. To that end, Localworks
collaborates with members of the community through our standing committees, community-based
groups, and Wheat Ridge Staff. These groups include Localworks’ Partners in Progress Committee,
ArtSpace/Arts in Wheat Ridge Committee, Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission, and Sustainable Wheat
Ridge. These partnerships allow for the leveraging community expertise to achieve programs that
enhance Wheat Ridge and meet City Council’s identified Strategic Planning goals. In 2021, these
collaboration efforts will continue and additional opportunities to connect will be identified.
Exciting new programs and partnerships have resulted from the ArtSpace preliminary analysis project.
The ArtSpace Committee will continue and additional members will be added to broaden the reach in
the community. New programs are coming out related to these collaborations. The new Chalk of the
Town program is one of these programs and resulted from a collaboration with Wheat Ridge Cultural
Commission and Localworks. Another new program coming in 2021 will be a series of self-guided audio
tours which will utilize a mobile app to showcase Wheat Ridge assets such as art, gardens, parks,
historical sites, and more.
At the beginning of 2020, we started to track and monitor our community connections to gain a sense of
how many touchpoints we make in the community. These community connections include participating
in local partner meetings, participating in community meetings, and meeting with residents and
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 5
business owners. Initial findings show that the Localworks team makes over 150 community
connections on a monthly basis. This tracking will continue into 2021.
1c. Positioning and Promotion of Wheat Ridge - $25,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
● City Vision Topic 4: Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
● City Vision Topic 7: Wheat Ridge residents are proud of their hometown.
In 2020, Localworks responded to limitations in in-person gatherings, by creating three new programs to
promote the Wheat Ridge community.
● The Community Coffee Break is a weekly, virtual program that brings community members
together and provides a forum to discuss issues, ideas, and fun things as well. To date, over 100
community members have participated. Discussions have centered on how COVID-19 has
affected them and their community, what they have learned about themselves and their
families during the lock-down, projects they have taken on, and how they are continuing to
connect with their neighbors.
● Wheat Ridge Bingo and the Wheat Ridge Scavenger Hunt are community programs that
encourage participants to celebrate Wheat Ridge and our local businesses.
o In July, 45 households registered to participate in Wheat Ridge Bingo. Wheat Ridge
Bingo asked participants to complete a Bingo card with actions such as purchasing food
from a local restaurant, watching a City Council meeting, visiting a local park, purchasing
fresh produce from a Wheat Ridge retailer, and learning more about Wheat Ridge from
the Historical Society. Bingo winners will be awarded a gift card to a local Wheat Ridge
business.
o The Wheat Ridge Scavenger Hunt will run in the month of August. This program varies
from the Wheat Ridge Bingo in that participants choose a number of activities to
complete over the month. The qualified activities include finding a business with a
mural, visiting a historical site in Wheat Ridge, and taking a physically distant selfie with
a neighbor. At the end of August, winners will be selected and awarded a gift card to a
local Wheat Ridge business.
In addition to these successful programs, Localworks has started the groundwork to develop self-guided
audio tours of Wheat Ridge utilizing a mobile app. These tours are being developed through
partnerships with the Cultural Commission and other groups in Wheat RIdge. The goal is to develop a
series of self-guided audio tours that celebrate the unique assets of the Wheat Ridge community
including art, history, gardens, parks, and other community assets. This tool can also be used for
programs such as scavenger hunts and more. More information on this exciting program will be
forthcoming.
In 2021, Localworks will continue Wheat Ridge Bingo and the Wheat Ridge Scavenger Hunt programs as
a way to celebrate Wheat Ridge and connect residents with our local businesses. These virtual events
complement the provision of in-person events and provide residents with additional ways to interact in
the community that best fit their time availability.
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 6
In 2021, Localworks will host the seventh Mid Century and Modern Home Tour. This popular event
showcases the unique housing stock of Wheat Ridge and traditionally sells out with 400 attendees
taking part of the tour. The tour attracts participants from the Denver Metro area and from across the
State of Colorado. The event is a successful strategy to promote and position Wheat Ridge and connect
the community’s unique architecture with our local businesses who support this architecture style and
trend.
In 2021, Localworks will expand our current farm tour program which has been offered as a Live Local
event in the past. Building on Wheat Ridge’s leadership in the urban agriculture movement, we believe
a larger scale event will have the ability to showcase the innovative agricultural activities in the Wheat
Ridge community and also highlight industry leading strategies taking place here in Wheat Ridge.
1d. Localworks Business and Home Improvement Loan Programs - $50,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods
● City Vision Topic 4: Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
o Goal 2: Provide support to existing commercial areas.
o Goal 3: Proactively identify emerging redevelopment areas.
In late March, Localworks launched the Business Adapt-ABILITY loan program which assisted eleven
businesses in quickly adapting their business models to meet the impacts of COVID-19. This loan
program was designed to provide resources to assist our businesses in their efforts to adapt and grow
through the impacts of the pandemic. These loans were offered with zero-percent interest rates, do not
require repayment for one year and have a three-year repayment period. Eleven businesses received a
total of $43,500. In addition to assisting with their business efforts, we were able to connect these
businesses with our residents, tell their business story, and share their adaptations to the pandemic.
One loan recipient shifted their operations so effectively they had to add a new staff position. We were
able to share and celebrate this success on our social media channels.
The Building Up Business Loan program, or BUBL, is a low-interest loan program for Wheat Ridge
businesses that supports commercial property improvements. These investments revitalize Wheat
Ridge’s business areas including the main corridors and retail areas. Since 2008, 13 BUBL loans have
been approved which resulted in an investment of approximately $574,000 in the Wheat Ridge
economy. We currently have one loan on the books and two new loans in process. As loans have
reached maturity, these funds have been cycled back into the program for future applicants. This
program will continue in 2021. In addition to the $50,000 requested in this budget proposal, Localworks
commits to match funds for this program with an additional $50,000. Localworks partners with the City
and the Wheat Ridge Business District to leverage these funds to benefit as many businesses as possible
each year.
The Home Improvement Program loan, or HIP, proactively assists residents as they begin rehabilitating
their homes which is key to improving the City’s housing stock and beautifying our neighborhoods.
Since 2007, 19 HIP loans have been approved which has resulted in an investment of over $407,000 in
the Wheat Ridge community. In 2021, this program will continue with support from the Localworks
investment account.
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 7
In addition to the administration of our loan programs, Localworks partnered with the City of Wheat
Ridge to review applications for both rounds of the City of Wheat Ridge’s Business Stabilization Grant
program which provided grants to businesses impacted by COVID-19.
This year, Localworks administered the Business Re-Opening Assistance Program on behalf of the City of
Wheat Ridge. This program reimburses businesses for expenses incurred in opening and re-opening
their businesses to meet social distancing requirements associated with public health orders as a result
of COVID-19. Eighteen Wheat Ridge businesses received assistance in creating and expanding outdoor
patio areas, enhancing online ordering services, and other strategies to ensure the vitality of their
business and the Wheat Ridge community. As a result of this program, Localworks is working with two
businesses and the Wheat Ridge Business District on permanent outdoor changes to these businesses
that will enhance the streetscape and sense of place in Wheat Ridge.
1e. Block Improvement Program - TLC Wheat Ridge - $37,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting City.
o Goal 4: Expand proactive code enforcement.
● City Vision Topic 2: Wheat Ridge is a community for families.
o Goal 2: Provide options for seniors to age in place.
o Goal 3: Support residents in taking an active role in community policing.
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations.
● City Vision Topic 6: Wheat Ridge is committed to environmental stewardship.
In partnership with the Wheat Ridge Police Department, Localworks implements grant programs for
block improvements and clean-ups days in targeted areas across the City. TLC – Wheat Ridge stands for
Traffic Safety, Life Quality, ad Crime Reduction in Wheat Ridge. The program includes a number of ways
to address these issues in the Wheat Ridge community including Clean Up Day, dumpster grants, and
block party grants.
In 2020, the dumpster grant program has had a significant impact on the appearance and cleanliness of
the community. As of the end July, nine dumpster grants have been made to Wheat Ridge residents. At
the first TLC Clean Up Day, 19 dumpsters were filled and over 100 residents participated in the program.
Dumpsters are categorized by general waste, recycling (paper, metal and glass) and yard waste. There
are two more Clean Up Days on the schedule, 8/29 and 9/12. Historically, the Clean Up Days result in
the filling of around 60 dumpsters and the removal of around 1,800 yards of waste annually.
In 2021, we will continue our partnership with the Wheat Ridge Police Department and grow our
partnership with Wheat Ridge Sustainability Committee to provide the TLC Clean Up Days. We will also
explore ways to expand this program and incorporate community volunteers. We are working on new
programming designed to connect our volunteers with residents in need and our senior population to
assist with property maintenance and clean ups.
2. Strategic Plan Program Investments and City Priority Support – $60,000
Localworks programming supports the City’s Strategic Plan and City priorities through programmatic
efforts related to HEAL – “Healthy Eating and Active Living” and volunteer engagement. These programs
focus on creating healthy opportunities for residents, improving our active transportation network and
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 8
options, and enhancing opportunities to volunteer in our community. These programs directly benefit
the well-being of our community. Strategic Plan Program Investments and City Priority Support
programs include:
2a. HEAL and Active Living Coalition and Plan Support
2b. Volunteer Engagement and Communications
2a. HEAL/Active Living - $18,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 2: Wheat Ridge is a community for families.
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations.
● City Vision Topic 5: Wheat Ridge has diverse transportation
o Goal 2: Implement priorities of the bike/pedestrian plan.
o Goal 3: Increase connectivity to surrounding communities and local gathering centers.
● City Vision Topic 8: Wheat Ridge residents enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.
The three-year Activate 38 - Active Living Neighborhood grant from Kaiser Permanente concluded in
2020. The grant provided resources for the development of a plan to improve bicycle and pedestrian
infrastructure west of Kipling on 38th Avenue and reduce barriers to walking, biking and wheelchair
rolling as forms of commuting and transportation. As a result of this planning effort, the following
improvements have been made in the 38th Avenue corridor:
● Two high intensity pedestrian activated beacon flashers for road crossings.
● Two speed check signs.
● Increased lighting near intersections and bus stops.
● Moving/repositioning one bus stop to facilitate safer connections.
● Two training classes to improve bicycle safety.
● Two training classes to be scheduled post COVID-19
● Sidewalk connections at two bus stops.
The findings from this planning effort have the ability to be implemented throughout the City. Many of
the improvements are low cost and are frequently easy to implement. In 2021, Localworks will work
closely with City staff, members of the Active Transportation Advisory Team, neighborhood groups, and
adjacent property owners to continue to implement these types of improvements to enhance active
transportation and reduce barriers to active transportation.
Localworks is a partner in supporting the ongoing work of the Wheat Ridge HEAL (Healthy Eating, Active
Living) Program. The purpose of HEALthy Wheat Ridge is to inform the community on matters pertaining
to healthy eating and active living, and to promote and create healthy eating and active living
opportunities.
In 2021, Localworks will continue to be a partner of HEALthy Wheat Ridge and will work with local
agencies and fitness providers to bring free, fun, and healthy offerings to the community. These
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 9
opportunities will include fitness classes, health education programming, and cruiser rides in partnership
with the Wheat Ridge Active Transportation Advisory Team (ATATs).
2b. Volunteer Engagement and Communications - $42,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting city.
● City Vision Topic 2: Wheat Ridge is a community for families.
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations.
● Vision Topic 7: Wheat Ridge residents are proud of their hometown.
Effectively engaging community volunteers is central to the mission of Localworks. Over 200 volunteers
and over 2,400 members of Localworks have provided their time and expertise for events and programs
designed to build community in Wheat Ridge.
In 2020, we formalized the development of a Wheat Ridge Volunteer Database. Once completed, this
database will become a resource for those interested in volunteering in our community and will allow
residents to identify ways to volunteer and topics that interest them, such as aging in place, community
clean ups, civic leadership and more. In 2021, we will launch this new program and help match
residents with volunteer opportunities throughout the community.
Our community postcards, which are produced in both English and Spanish, reach every household in
Wheat Ridge. These postcards share information about community events, ways to become involved in
the community, and information about how to support our community. In 2021, we will continue to
provide this resource to the Wheat Ridge community.
Localworks utilizes a number of volunteer committees to develop and deliver programming to support,
position and promote the Wheat Ridge community. The committees include: Live Local,
Communications Advisors Committee, Community Engagement Committee, specific event committees
and Partners in Progress Committee. In all, over 50 committee members give their time and expertise
to the Wheat Ridge community. Each of these committees provides guidance and feedback on
programming and strategic communications. These committees will continue to offer their expertise in
2021.
In 2020, the Partners in Progress Committee will become part of the Wheat Ridge 101 a new civics
academy that builds on the successes of the Wheaties program. Localworks worked closely with the
City of Wheat Ridge to develop a comprehensive program that will allow for significant education
related to how the City of Wheat Ridge operates, how to engage with neighbors in an effective and
respectful manner, and empower participants to share this knowledge with their neighbors. The first
academy will commence this fall and the program is anticipated to be an annual event. Localworks is a
full partner in this program and will assist with programming and discussion sessions.
3. Commercial Corridors – $77,000
Localworks supports and implements planning efforts for Wheat Ridge’s commercial corridors through
physical improvements and the promotion of local businesses. Wheat Ridge businesses located in the
commercial corridors express the unique identity of Wheat Ridge, contribute to the economic well-being
of the City and provide places where our community gathers and celebrates. Localworks’ programs
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 10
focus on improving the sense of place and identity in our commercial corridors, promoting businesses,
connecting businesses and residents, and effectively positioning Wheat Ridge through digital and print
media. Commercial Corridor programs include:
3a. Banners and Lights
3b. Business Outreach/Connection/Promotion
3c. Marketing/Social Media/Digital/Print
3a. Banners and Lights - $10,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting city.
● City Vision Topic 4: Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
o Goal 2: Provide support to existing commercial areas.
o Goal 3: Proactively identify emerging redevelopment areas.
Effective placemaking efforts include signage and lighting. This program works to implement the City’s
adopted vision and plans related to creating a unique sense of place in Wheat Ridge. To maximize
program effectiveness, Localworks seeks opportunities for partnerships, leveraging, and sponsorships.
This program relies on a mix of professional services and support from City staff in developing and
implementing adopted City signage guidelines.
In 2021, this program will continue as a means to enhance place making efforts and community
connections to our local businesses.
3b. Business Outreach/Connection/Promotion - $30,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting city.
● City Vision Topic 4: Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
o Goal 2: Provide support to existing commercial areas.
o Goal 3: Proactively identify emerging redevelopment areas.
At the onset of COVID-19, Localworks increased our focus on supporting local businesses through social
media promotion. As of July 2020, Localworks has promoted Wheat Ridge businesses over 240 times on
our social media. Those posts have reached Facebook and Instagram users in the Denver Metro area
over 65,000 times.
To help small businesses draw customers in during the pandemic, Localworks began Chalk of the Town.
This three-month program matched professional artists and volunteer teams with businesses to produce
vibrant chalk art installations. Over the months of June, July and August, 21 businesses, 6 professional
artists, and 26 volunteers participated. The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission hosted the six
professional artists, In June and July, our Chalk of the Town social media posts reached Facebook and
Instagram users 19,675 times, giving participating businesses exposure and driving potential customers
to their door. This program will continue and expand in 2021.
We have solid partnerships with the Wheat Ridge Business District, the Wheat Ridge Business
Association, the Wheat Ridge Chamber of Commerce, the Active Transportation Advisory Team and
Downtown Colorado, Inc. Through collaborative efforts with these groups, we have celebrated the
opening of five new businesses in Wheat Ridge, shared resources to assist businesses in re-opening, and
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 11
shared innovative ideas to support business efforts and increase connections with residents. These
efforts will continue in 2021.
In 2020, Localworks reached out to the business community to assess their interest in adding their
events to a community calendar as an element of our monthly eNews. The response by local businesses
was positive. As we implement this program, the community calendar will highlight events being hosted
and sponsored by businesses in Wheat Ridge. We will continue to grow this program through 2021.
In 2020, Localworks partnered with our businesses to host bands on location in local businesses. This
effort resulted from the cancellation of the Criterium. Contracts for bands had been signed and
payments had been made. Rather than losing this investment, Localworks quickly opted to share these
resources with our local businesses. The reception by businesses has been positive and Localworks is
looking to expand the program in 2021 and create an entertainment partnership program with our
businesses that will include art and music in our commercial corridors throughout the year as a way to
increase opportunities for residents to connect with local businesses.
3c. Marketing/Social Media/Digital/Print - $37,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting City.
● City Vision Topic 2: Wheat Ridge is a community for families.
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations.
● City Vision Topic 4: Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
o Goal 2: Provide support to existing commercial areas.
o Goal 3: Proactively identify emerging redevelopment areas.
● City Vision Topic 7: Wheat Ridge residents are proud of their hometown.
● City Vision Topic 8: Wheat Ridge residents enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.
The use of marketing tools, social media and print media allow Localworks to effectively promote Wheat
Ridge businesses, the Wheat Ridge community, community events, and community conversations.
Localworks leverages these tools to maximize our return on investment. Tracking of social and digital
media metrics allows us to target messaging, modify messaging to increase community reach, and
identify ways to reach a broader community audience.
In 2020, our Facebook presence continued to grow. Currently, we have over 1,800 followers. As of
August 1, our messaging has reached Facebook users over 98,000 times this year. We have an
engagement rate of 6.8%, and 50.3% of users who click on our content “like” that post. Our Instagram
presence has grown to 310 followers this year. As of August 1, our messaging has reached Instagram
users 4,427 times, and 13.4% of reached users “like” our content. Overall, our social media messaging
has reached users in the Denver Metro area over 100,000 times this year.
Beginning in 2021, we will expand our use of LinkedIn as a way to connect with our business partners
and share information across this group to enhance business operations and strategies to connect with
residents and customers.
To extend and maximize these marketing and outreach efforts, the City and Localworks partner to
ensure that digital and print media efforts are shared across social media channels, in the City’s
economic development advertising with the West Metro Chamber and Applewood Business Association,
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 12
and included in the City’s Channel 8 videography and programming. Additionally, city staff has assisted
with the creation of maps for Localworks’ programs.
4. Wheat Ridge Special Events – $135,000
Strategic Plan Connection:
● City Vision Topic 1: Wheat Ridge is an attractive and inviting city.
● City Vision Topic 2: Wheat Ridge is a community for families.
● City Vision Topic 3: Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods.
o Goal 2: Facilitate neighbor-to-neighbor relations.
● City Vision Topic 4: Wheat Ridge has a choice of economically viable commercial areas.
o Goal 2: Provide support to existing commercial areas.
o Goal 3: Proactively identify emerging redevelopment areas.
● City Vision Topic 7: Wheat Ridge Residents are proud of their hometown.
● City Vision Topic 8: Wheat Ridge residents enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle.
o Goal 2: Develop an active relationship with Lutheran Medical Center.
Localworks implements two major community events and several smaller community events which are
designed to meet the City’s economic development goals related to positioning and promoting Wheat
Ridge as a desirable place to work, shop, and play. These events celebrate the unique character of
Wheat Ridge.
• The Criterium has been a regionally significant event for 6 years. It routinely draws
approximately 7,000 visitors to Wheat Ridge offering many opportunities to showcase our
terrific businesses.
• Ridgefest is a local celebration of all things that make Wheat Ridge unique and special. This
unique community event has been for 8 years.
• Smaller scale community events include Movies on the Ridge – formerly Friday Night Live, Trunk
or Treat, and Holiday Celebration. These events offer the community opportunities to come
together and celebrate.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a priority to keep our community safe and healthy, we made the
decision to cancel the Criterium for 2020. Since planning for large scale events starts approximately a
year before the event, many of our sponsors were in place prior to the cancellation of the event. We
quickly made the decision to spotlight our sponsors on social media promoting these Wheat Ridge
businesses, sharing their stories and successes with the community. Creating this connection between
businesses and residents is where Localworks truly excels.
In 2020, Localworks responded to public health requirements and a goal to provide community
connections with our residents, and shifted the Movies on the Ridge program to a drive-in movie
format. This shift was possible through a partnership with SCL Lutheran Hospital. To ensure compliance
with public health orders, event ticketing and waivers were implemented. This strategy served as a local
and regional model for connecting residents.
In 2020, Localworks will host a Ridgefest “deconstructed” over the weekend of September 11 - 13.
Traditionally held as a one-day, one-site event, the 2020 Ridgefest “deconstructed” we be offered as a
multi-day, multi-site event in order to meet current requirements of public health orders related to the
COVID-19 pandemic. Deconstructing the event means that the event will take place over the course of
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 13
three days and events will be offered in locations throughout the City of Wheat Ridge. The event is
being planned in a way to shift to a virtual format if public health requirements dictate. Held over three
days, Ridgefest “deconstructed” will showcase nine local businesses hosting activities that include music
performances, a car show, classes, games, and chalk art. By creatively deconstructing this event, the
Wheat Ridge community can come together and celebrate all that makes Wheat Ridge unique.
In 2021 Localworks will host Criterium, Ridgefest, Trunk or Treat and Holiday Celebration. We will
continue to obtain sponsorships and donations to support the delivery of these events.
To maximize the cost efficiency of special events, the City and Localworks partner to reduce the cost of
the events by waiving Ridge at 38 banner fees, waiving event fees, placing and removing Ridge at 38
banners. and repairing banner arms as needed. Localworks staff and City staff work together to set up
and tear down for events which includes Localworks ensuring that all trash is picked up, the City
removing collected trash, and the City providing and removing picnic tables and trash barrels.
Localworks staff and the Wheat Ridge Police Department work closely to ensure a safe environment for
all attendees of these special events through the provision of police presence at Criterium, Ridgefest and
Holiday Celebration. The partnership between Localworks and the City has resulted in the consistent
delivery of safe and economical events that position and promote the Wheat Ridge community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this budget proposal represents a commitment by Localworks to partner with the City of
Wheat Ridge, our local businesses, and the community to leverage resources to create a vibrant and
sustainable community that positions and promotes all the things that make Wheat Ridge a great place
to live, work, and play. This community-based partnership will result in the provision of support and
promotion of our local businesses, beautification of our City through clean up days and dumpster grants,
enhanced volunteer and community engagement, and events that celebrate the unique character of
Wheat Ridge.
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 14
APPENDIX ONE
Localworks Budget Proposal and Historical Overview
Account Detailed Explanation
2019
Adopted
2019
Actual
2020
Adopted
2020
Estimated
2021
Proposal
Wheat Ridge Special Events
710 Special Events 160,000 157,500 180,000 146,393 135000
Subtotal $160,000 $157,500 $180,000 $146,393 $135,000
Core Localworks Programs
721 Live Local 40,000 40,001 41,500 41,500 50,000
721 Communications, Education, Outreach 40,000 44,280 40,000 40,000 52,000
721 Positioning and Promotion of Wheat Ridge 22,500 22,499 22,500 22,500 25,000
721 Business (BUBL) and Home Improvement (HIP) Loans 53,000 53,005 50,000 0 50,000
721 Block Improvement Program - TLC WR 30,000 34,859 33,025 33,025 37,000
721 Rental City Facilities 5,000 4,741 n/a n/a n/a
Subtotal $190,500 $199,385 $187,025 $137,025 $214,000
Strategic Plan Program Investments and City Priority Support
721 HEAL/Active Living 30,000 30,355 25,000 25,000 18,000
721 Volunteer Engagment and Communications 27,000 25,550 40,000 40,000 42,000
704 Planning for 2019 50th Anniversary events/Gala 10,000 4,718 n/a n/a n/a
Subtotal $67,000 $60,623 $65,000 $65,000 $60,000
Commercial Corridors
721 Banners and Lights 25,000 24,969 20,000 1,968 10,000
721 Business Outreach/Connection/Promotion 8,000 7,989 10,000 10,787 30,000
721 Marketing/Social Media/Digital/Print 30,000 30,042 33,000 11,049 37,000
721 Digital Media Support 10,000 10,000 20,000 8,549 0
Subtotal $73,000 $73,000 $83,000 $32,353 $77,000
OVERALL TOTALS:$490,500 $490,508 $515,025 $380,771 $486,000
704 Contractual Services $10,000 $4,718 n/a n/a n/a
710 Marketing and Sponsorships $160,000 $157,500 $180,000 $146,393 $135,000
721 Programmatic Implementation $320,500 $328,289 $335,025 $234,378 $351,000
Total $490,500 $490,507 $515,025 $380,771 $486,000
Summary of funding from above:
Localworks Proposed Budget 2021
Localworks 2021 Budget Request Page 15
APPENDIX TWO
Localworks Current Account Balances
The table below provides a summary of the accounts for Localworks as of August 6, 2020. The “Liquid
Asset” account is the result of property sales and loan payoffs that have occurred since the inception of
the organization. Localworks has an adopted investment policy for this account with the goal to
maximize the use of the account for the benefit of the community and the organization.
August 6, 2020
Patrick Goff
City of Wheat Ridge
7500 W. 29th Ave.
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Re: 2021 Funding Request for Wheat Ridge Business District
Dear Patrick,
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Wheat Ridge Business District, I am writing you to request
funding of $90,000.00 total in 2021:
•$45,000.00 for the matching grants programs
•$45,000.00 for the Façade Plus program
To date in 2020, the Wheat Ridge Business District has awarded grants to three properties and has
three properties pending final board approval, totaling over $24,000 for sign, façade, architectural,
landscape, paint, murals, accessibility and visual impact projects. Additionally, one property has been
awarded a Façade Plus grant totaling $20,000. These matching grants have leveraged over $234,000
in private investment dollars to commercial properties in Wheat Ridge in 2020. The Wheat Ridge
Business District intends to award the remaining funds throughout the second half of 2020, despite the
current business climate due to COVID19. We are seeing that businesses are still looking to invest in
Wheat Ridge and its commercial properties.
In 2021, the Wheat Ridge Business District will continue to promote these matching grant incentives
and support property improvements to commercial properties throughout Wheat Ridge. We thank you
for your past and continued support of the Wheat Ridge Business District.
Sincerely,
Joseph DeMott
Board President
Wheat Ridge Business District
www.WRBusinessDistrict.org
ATTACHMENT 2
August 17,2020
City Council
City of Wheat Ridge
RE: 2021 Appropriation
Dear Wheat Ridge City Council,
The Carnation Festival Inc. is requesting an appropriation of $75,000 to produce the 2021 Carnation
Festival. The 2020 appropriation was $100,000 and we requested $50,000 be paid in late February 2020
to fund planning the 2020 Carnation Festival. At the time, the Carnation Festival was scheduled to occur
in August 2020. However, as public health concerns over COVID-19 became increasingly serious we
made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Carnation Festival in May 2020. At that point we had
incurred approximately $25,000 in expenses related to the 2020 Festival. We have the remaining
$25,000 from the 2020 payment in our bank account and that cash along with the $75,000 we are
requesting for 2021 will bring us to $100,000 in city funding to produce the 2021 Carnation Festival.
The Carnation Festival Board is closely monitoring the public health recommendation from the Colorado
Department of Public Health and Environment reguarding outdoor events and restrictions on mass
gatherings. If the effects of COVID-19 on public health continue into 2021, such that mass gatherings
remain limited, we do not plan on producing a 2021 Carnation Festival and would not request payment
from the city in 2021.
We sincerely thank City Council for your continued support of the Carnation Festival and what this
festival means to our community. We are anxious to have the next Carnation Festival to bring the
community together and celebrate what makes Wheat Ridge great!
Sincerely,
The Carnation Festival Board
ATTACHMENT 3
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager Marianne Schilling, Assistant to the City Manager FROM: Kayla Betzold, Sustainability Coordinator
DATE: August 17, 2020 SUBJECT: Sustainable Wheat Ridge 2021 Budget Request
ISSUE: The Sustainable Wheat Ridge (SWR) committee continued to expand its impact in 2020, through collaborations with community partners and strategic program implementation. SWR has been focused on making positive sustainable changes in Wheat Ridge by focusing on six main topic
areas, outlined in the SWR Action plan, approved by Council in 2018. In 2020, the City hired a
part-time Sustainability Coordinator to assist the committee in analyzing and expanding sustainability programs. The Sustainable Neighborhoods program began accepting applications in June and will result in two Wheat Ridge neighborhoods creating and managing sustainability projects by the end of 2020. The committee has also implemented various new programs this
year, including residential compost drop off and electric lawn mower rebates, with a focus on
engaging residents in sustainability. The team, in collaboration with the Sustainability Coordinator, is planning to continue the expansion of projects in 2021 and focus on broadening the impact through strategic initiatives. The focus in 2021 is to provide programs and resources to the Wheat Ridge business community.
Sustainable Wheat Ridge is requesting $25,500 in 2021. This amount is the same as the 2020 Adopted Budget. BACKGROUND: Sustainable Wheat Ridge (SWR) is a resident-led committee of ten volunteer community
members. The committee was formed in May 2017 by Mayor Joyce Jay with the primary goals of involving the community in recommending and prioritizing environmental sustainability goals for the City and to support other community-wide sustainability efforts. After the formation, the newly developed committee worked on creating an Action Plan, which was presented to City Council in June 2018, along with recommendations for City Council and the committee. The
plan was designed to enhance the environmental sustainability of Wheat Ridge, provide strong financial returns, and bring substantial benefits to public health, community cohesion and livability. Since June 2018, SWR has transitioned from the development of the Action Plan to the
implementation of key action items. In January 2019, SWR welcomed new members to the team
ATTACHMENT 4
and started the implementation phase. In the 2020 Adopted Budget, City Council approved a
budget to expand the sustainability initiatives brought forth by the committee and to hire a part-
time Sustainability Coordinator to assist in achieving sustainability efforts. Below are the 2020 key accomplishments achieved so far and anticipated throughout the rest of the year:
2020 Accomplishments
● SWR Team
o Added new volunteer committee members in January 2020 o Hired a part-time Sustainability Coordinator in February 2020 ● Communications o Developed and managed the Sustainable Neighborhoods program in Wheat
Ridge; efforts include creating a Wheat Ridge page on the Sustainable
Neighborhoods Network website, marketing the program through internal and external channels, hosting an informational Open House event, and providing guidance to interested neighborhoods o Developed and published a Sustainability page on the What’s Up Wheat Ridge
community engagement platform, launched on 50th Anniversary of Earth Day
o Purchased SWR branded SWEDEdish cloths and distributed at community events
o Shared regular SWR updates in Connections, Mayors Matters, website and social media
● Grant funding
o Awarded $11,608 through the Can’dAid Foundation for zero waste event supplies
to transition the Carnation Festival to a zero waste event in 2021; supplies will also be used at internal and external Wheat Ridge events in 2020 and onward o Awarded grants from Xcel Energy for the infrastructure costs related to the installation of the electric vehicle charging station at both Wheat Ridge City Hall
and the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center
● Community Collaboration
o Collaborated with LocalWorks to coordinate zero waste initiatives at the Movies on the Ridge events; provided compostable materials to food vendors at events to increase waste diversion efforts o Partnered with the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) to provide electric lawn
mower rebates to Wheat Ridge residents
o Partnered with Scraps to offer compost drop off service at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center and Wheat Ridge City Hall; subsidized the cost of 100 memberships for first two months o Distributed free rain barrel diverter kits to Wheat Ridge residents to encourage
water conservation
● Partners in Energy (City partnership with Xcel Energy, expiring in September 2020)
o Continued partnership in program to advertise residential, commercial, and municipal energy audits o Residential: ▪ Offered fully subsidized audits for Home Energy Squad Regular (normally $50) and Plus (normally $150) for all Wheat Ridge residents in order to make homes operate more energy efficiently and help residents save
money on utility bills
▪ Implemented a multifamily outreach plan to inform Wheat Ridge property managers about free energy audits
o Commercial:
▪ Worked with local businesses to promote opportunities through Xcel
Energy for free small business energy audits
▪ Direct mailers to Wheat Ridge businesses to advertise the program
o Municipal:
▪ Managed EnergyStar benchmarking data for city buildings Upcoming 2020 Projects/Events ● Coordinate free municipal energy audits to inform energy-related enhancements and Energy Performance Contracting through CO Energy Office ● Attend LocalWorks TLC Clean Up Days to engage with residents about sustainability program offerings and distribute energy conservation kits from Xcel Energy
● Partner with Scraps to implement a fall yard waste drop off event for Wheat Ridge
residents; continue to work towards residential pick up service
● Partner with Resource Central to start the Garden in a Box program in Wheat Ridge,
resulting in $25 discounts for xeric plant purchases to decrease residential water usage
● Manage a Small Business Bike Rack program to distribute bike racks and increase bicycle usage ● Accept two Wheat Ridge neighborhoods into the Sustainable Neighborhoods program and providing guidance to achieve sustainability goals ● Coordinate zero waste initiatives at Performances in the Park and other internal and external City events and provide compostable materials to food vendors and event
coordinators
● Provide educational materials to teach residents how to conduct their own household
waste audit
● Continue to promote Xcel Home Energy Squad audit discount
● Participate in the Fresh Food Connect app to allow residents to donate excess produce As the committee continues to implement initiatives in the community that further sustainability goals through partnerships with local agencies and community engagement, SWR is focused on enhancing its impact in Wheat Ridge through strategic initiatives in 2021. The committee, along
with the Sustainability Coordinator, intend to manage a city-wide greenhouse gas inventory to achieve an accurate calculation of carbon emissions and utilize this data to create baseline metrics and quantitative climate goals. These goals will be an important piece of the new Xcel Energy Futures Collaboration, a partnership in 2021 between the City of Wheat Ridge and Xcel Energy, which will replace the Partners in Energy program and result in a more direct
relationship with Xcel Energy to accelerate the progress towards energy goals. In 2021, the committee will focus on expanding sustainability programming to the Wheat Ridge business community. The committee intends to implement and manage a Sustainable Business Grant Program with the goal of awarding businesses funding to accomplish projects that advance
sustainability goals. In 2020, the City of Wheat Ridge joined the Sustainable Neighborhood Network. This program promotes resident-led neighborhood sustainability efforts in order to assist residents in taking ownership of their community’s environmental actions. This program has a startup cost and a
cost of about $2,500 per neighborhood for signage and programming. SWR anticipates supporting the startup programming for two new neighborhoods each year. By spring 2021, the
program will consist of four Wheat Ridge neighborhoods.
Additionally, SWR will continue supporting the Green Business award and partnering on residential compost programming. The committee is also looking to continue the promotion of active transportation in Wheat Ridge in 2021. SWR sees a lot of opportunities for improved trail signage, promoting neighborhood-friendly streets, increasing bicycle ridership, and educational
programs about rider safety.
In total, Sustainable Wheat Ridge is requesting $25,500 for 2021 in order to implement the following projects:
Deliverable Action Plan Focus Area Cost
Sustainable Neighborhoods Program (two new neighborhoods and two ongoing neighborhoods)
All $7,500
Greenhouse Gas Inventory All $5,000
Sustainable Business Grant Program All $5,000
Promotion of bicycle use Transportation $3,000
Compostable Event Supplies Solid Waste & Recycling $1,200
Quarterly Community Engagement Events Communications & Engagement $1,000
Green Business Program Green Building & Energy Efficiency; Renewable Energy $1,000
Wheat Ridge Compost Drop Off Solid Waste & Recycling $1,000
Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI) Membership All $600
Earth Day Event Communications & Engagement $200
Total $25,500
City Council may recommend additional programming and/or projects for SWR in 2021. Staff is asking for consensus on the funding level of Sustainable Wheat Ridge in 2021.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: $25,500
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that City Council provide consensus to fund Sustainable Wheat Ridge in 2021 at $25,500.
ATTACHMENTS: N/A
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager
FROM: Marianne Schilling, Assistant to the City Manager
DATE: August 17, 2020
SUBJECT: Homeless Navigator Intergovernmental Agreement
ISSUE: The City of Wheat Ridge is committed to regional homeless navigation efforts to address the
increasing number of individuals experiencing homelessness. In February 2020, Wheat Ridge
established and executed an MOU between Jefferson County and the cities therein to best coordinate these efforts.
In order to meet a growing need in Wheat Ridge and the surrounding area, the city has now
partnered with Golden and Edgewater to staff or contract for one full-time Homeless Navigator
to share between the three cities. Wheat Ridge will hire or contract the role while Golden and Edgewater contribute financially.
PRIOR ACTIONS: City Council approved a 0.5 FTE Homeless Navigator in the 2020 Adopted Budget. In February 2020, Council passed Resolution No. 13-2020, which approved a regional MOU concerning homeless navigation efforts.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The 2020 Adopted Budget approved a 0.5 FTE Homeless Navigator, which totaled $42,037 including salary and benefits. The full-time cost of the same position would be approximately $85,000, pending consensus between all three cities.
The Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) divides the payment obligations by city population, with
Wheat Ridge covering 56%, and Golden and Edgewater covering 35% and 9%, respectively. Wheat Ridge would pay the full cost of the position, and would invoice Golden and Edgewater for their corresponding costs (approximately $37,400 in total).
BACKGROUND: Last year, City Council approved a 0.5 FTE Homeless Navigator in the 2020 Adopted Budget.
This position was part of a regional effort throughout Jefferson County to address the rise of individuals experiencing homelessness. Part of these efforts includes establishing a network of Homeless Navigator positions in individual jurisdictions that work in collaboration as regional partners. The Navigators deliver direct services to individuals and families in need, provide
Item No. 3
program and stabilization-related support, and collect and distribute information and resources to
assist those experiencing homelessness.
The City posted the position in December and interviewed candidates in January and March. The position was difficult to fill, in part because of the nature of the half-time role would require some inconsistent and on-call hours, which would make it difficult for candidates to maintain a
second part-time job.
The Homeless Navigator hiring process was then frozen in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, the City spoke with neighboring cities Golden and Edgewater. Golden was also having difficulty filling a 0.5 FTE role and Edgewater needed more homeless
support than originally anticipated. The three cities are now working toward the hiring of one
full-time Homeless Navigator to share and have developed an IGA. Wheat Ridge will establish and fill a Homeless Navigator position, and both Golden and Edgewater will allocate financial and/or staff resources to facilitate the work of the Homeless
Navigator. The burden of cost between each cities will be divided between the cities on a pro-
rata basis based upon the respective populations of the cities. For 2020, the division will be: Wheat Ridge – 56%; Golden – 35%; Edgewater – 9%. To move forward with the IGA, the budgeted 0.5 FTE Homeless Navigator position will become
a full-time position, increasing the total FTE count for the City by 0.5. Additionally, the position
will be taken out of the Crime Prevention Fund in the Police Department and placed into the City Manager’s Office. This will allow the Homeless Navigator to access the County’s Homeless Management Information System which is not accessible by the police department.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends consensus to bring forward the IGA between Wheat Ridge, Golden and Edgewater as a resolution to hire or contract for one full-time Homeless Navigator position. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Homeless Navigator Draft IGA
1 COE.TWR.00601
AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT CONCERNING THE
ESTABLISHMENT OF A REGIONAL HOMELESS NAVIGATOR TO SUPPORT
AND ASSIST THOSE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS
1.0 PARTIES. This Intergovernmental Agreement Concerning the Establishment of a
Regional Homeless Navigator to Support and Assist Those Experiencing Homelessness (this
“Agreement”), effective as of _____________, 2020 (“Effective Date”), is entered into by the
following Parties (each, individually, a “Party”):
1.1. The City of Edgewater, a Colorado municipal corporation (“Edgewater”);
1.2. The City of Golden, a Colorado municipal corporation (“Golden”); and
1.3. The City of Wheat Ridge, a Colorado municipal corporation (“Wheat Ridge”).
2.0 RECITALS
2.1. The Parties are authorized by the provisions of Colo. Const. Art. XIV, §18(2)(a) and
C.R.S. §§29-1-201, et. seq. to contract with one another to provide any function,
service, or facility lawfully authorized to each.
2.2. The increasing number of individuals experiencing homelessness continues to be a
regional issue that affects the health, safety, and welfare of each of the Parties’
communities.
2.3. The Parties have determined it would be in the best interest of all of the Parties to
coordinate homelessness navigation efforts by cooperating in the establishment of a
Homeless Navigator position to assist and support homeless individuals within the
jurisdictional boundaries of the Parties.
2.4. In addition to assisting and supporting homeless individuals within the jurisdictional
boundaries of the Parties, an essential part of the navigation efforts will be to establish
and/or contribute resources to a network of Homeless Navigator positions within the
region, in a collaborative approach to address the growing concerns related to
homelessness.
2.5. Establishment of this Agreement will serve a public purpose and will promote the
health, safety, and general welfare of inhabitants in and around the jurisdiction of the
Parties.
ATTACHMENT 1
2 COE.TWR.00601
3.0 TERM AND RENEWAL.
3.1. This Agreement will remain in effect through December 31, 2021 (“Initial Term”),
subject to the provisions of section 9.6 of this Agreement and the Parties’ right to
terminate under section 8.0 of this Agreement.
3.2. This Agreement will automatically renew for up to four consecutive one-year terms
(each a “Renewal Term”), upon expiration of the Initial Term and any Renewal Term,
subject to the provisions of section 9.6 of this Agreement and Parties’ right to terminate
under section 8.0 of this Agreement.
3.3. The Initial Term and any Renewal Term shall be referred to individually and
collectively as the “Term.”
4.0 OBLIGATIONS OF THE PARTIES. The Parties agree to work collaboratively to
coordinate homeless navigation efforts among their jurisdictions. To achieve regional homeless
navigation services, the Parties agree that:
4.1. Wheat Ridge will establish and fill a Homeless Navigator position, as either an
employee or independent contractor of Wheat Ridge, and each of the Parties will
allocate financial or staff resources to facilitate the work of the Homeless Navigator,
which will include but not be limited to the following:
4.1.1 Delivering direct services to homeless individuals and families in need of
services and support;
4.1.2 Providing business support for programs and projects related to providing
services to individuals experiencing homelessness;
4.1.3 Establishing and supporting the planning and development of written
materials and presentations;
4.1.4 Collecting and distributing information that may assist individuals
experiencing homelessness and/or that would assist the Parties in
developing strategic plans to combat homelessness;
4.1.5 Compiling data for special projects or reports; and
3 COE.TWR.00601
4.1.6 Establishing and maintaining collaborative partnerships with internal and
external partners and resources to successfully achieve goals and objectives
related to homelessness.
4.2. Edgewater and Golden will, respectively, designate one staff person as a point of
contact to respond to the Homeless Navigator, other jurisdictions, regional partners,
and the community concerning issues surrounding homelessness. Each Party is
responsible for updating the other jurisdictions if the designated staff person changes.
4.3. Each Party commits to allocating additional resources as it deems necessary to address
the urgent needs of individuals experiencing homelessness in its community.
4.4. The Parties will support the coordination of efforts between the Homeless Navigator
established pursuant to this Agreement, and Jefferson County’s Homeless Navigator
and/or Coordinator positions, and/or the Homeless Navigator or similar positions that
exist or may be established within the region.
4.5. Each Party shall be solely responsible for the acts if its employees undertaken pursuant
to this Agreement. Wheat Ridge shall perform its duties hereunder as an independent
contractor, and not as an employee of Edgewater or Golden. Neither Wheat Ridge
nor any agent or employee of Wheat Ridge, including but not limited to the individual
employed or otherwise engaged by Wheat Ridge as the Homeless Navigator, shall be
deemed to be an agent or employee of Edgewater or Golden, and nothing in this
Agreement is intended to create a relationship, express or implied, or employer-
employee or principal-agent between the individual employed or otherwise engaged by
Wheat Ridge as the Homeless Navigator and Edgewater or Golden. Edgewater or
Golden shall have no direction and control over the individual employed or otherwise
engaged by Wheat Ridge as the Homeless Navigator in the course of executing his or
her work duties, nor shall Edgewater or Golden have any right or authority to
discipline or terminate the individual employed or otherwise engaged by Wheat Ridge
as the Homeless Navigator. Wheat Ridge and its employees and agents are not entitled
to unemployment insurance or workers compensation benefits through Edgewater or
Golden. Wheat Ridge shall pay when due all applicable employment or other taxes,
if any that may be incurred as a result of its employment or other engagement of a
Homeless Navigator under this Agreement.
4 COE.TWR.00601
4.6. Prior to Wheat Ridge’s employment or engagement of a Homeless Navigator pursuant
to this Agreement, the Parties will collaborate in accordance with section 5 of this
Agreement to create and maintain guiding documents that will act as an Operating Plan
for the Homeless Navigator.
5.0 OPERATING PLAN
5.1. The initial Operating Plan must be approved in writing by the City Manager for each
of the Parties prior to being adopted. Once the Operating Plan is created or amended,
the most current version will be incorporated herein by reference. The Operating Plan
shall contain provisions designed to ensure that each Party receives services of the
Homeless Navigator within its jurisdiction that are commensurate with the participation
of the Party in the costs of employing the Homeless Navigator.
5.2 The Operating Plan may be amended as needed, but all revised versions must be
approved in writing by the City Manager for each of the Parties prior to the new version
taking effect.
6.0 PAYMENT OBLIGATIONS
6.1 During the Term of this Agreement, the Parties agree that the total employment or
engagement costs incurred by Wheat Ridge for its employment or engagement of
the Homeless Navigator will be divided between the Parties on a pro-rata basis
based upon the respective populations of the Parties, as set forth by the Colorado
Department of Local Affairs (“DOLA”) as its “Population Totals for Colorado
Municipalities” (or any similar compilation prepared annually by DOLA) as of
January 1 of each year during which this Agreement remains in effect. As of the
Effective Date of this Agreement, DOLA has set forth the populations of the Parties
hereto as follows:
A. Wheat Ridge: 30,205
B. Golden: 18,929
C. Edgewater 5,177
6.2 Accordingly, the Parties agree that for the period beginning from the Effective Date
through December 31 2020, the total employment or engagement costs incurred by
5 COE.TWR.00601
Wheat Ridge for its employment or engagement of the Homeless Navigator shall
be divided between the Parties as follows:
A. Wheat Ridge: 56%
B. Golden: 35%
C. Edgewater 9%
6.3 For the purposes of this section, the “total employment or engagement costs” of the
Homeless Navigator shall be deemed to be an amount equal to the total
compensation paid to the employee or independent contractor, plus twenty percent
(20%) of such amount to account for taxes, insurance, benefits, overhead and other
indirect costs of employment or engagement.
6.4 Edgewater and Golden shall, respectively, pay to Wheat Ridge, within thirty (30)
days after monthly written invoice therefore, all sums due from each to Wheat
Ridge pursuant to this Agreement.
7.0 AMENDMENTS
7.1 This AGREEMENT may be amended at any time by written Agreement signed by each
of the Parties to this AGREEMENT.
8.0 TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT
8.1 Wheat Ridge may terminate this Agreement by providing sixty (60) days written
notice to the other Parties. Upon such termination, Edgewater and Golden shall,
respectively, pay to Wheat Ridge all employment or engagement costs of the Homeless
Navigator incurred by Wheat Ridge on a pro-rata basis as determined by Section 6.1
through the date of termination. Any Party other than Wheat Ridge may withdraw from
and terminate its participation in this AGREEMENT at any time and for any reason by
providing 60 days written notice to the other Parties, and the withdrawing Party shall pay
to Wheat Ridge the employment or engagement costs of the Homeless Navigator incurred
by Wheat Ridge based upon the withdrawing Party’s pro-rata participation percentage, as
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determined by Section 6.1, through the date of termination. Following any such
termination by the withdrawing Party, Wheat Ridge and the remaining Party shall each
divide all future employment or engagement costs of the Homeless Navigator incurred by
Wheat Ridge during the Term of this Agreement on a pro-rata basis using the calculation
method set forth in Section 6.1.
9.0 GENERAL PROVISIONS
9.1 SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this AGREEMENT or the application thereof to
any Party is held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications
of the AGREEMENT which can be given effect without the invalid provision or
application, and to this end, the provisions of the AGREEMENT are declared to be
severable.
9.2 NON-ASSIGNMENT. This AGREEMENT shall not be assigned by any Party.
9.3 NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES. Except as otherwise stated herein, this
AGREEMENT is intended to describe the rights and responsibilities of and between
the Parties and is not intended to, and shall not be deemed to, confer rights upon any
persons or entities not named as Parties, limit in any way governmental immunity as
provided in § 24-10-101, et seq. C.R.S., and other limited liability statutes for the
protection of the Parties, nor limit the powers and responsibilities of any other entity
not a Party hereto. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to create a partnership or
joint venture between the Parties. The Parties shall be responsible for their own acts
and the conduct of their respective employees without waiving any protections afforded
by the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act.
9.4 BINDING EFFECT. This AGREEMENT shall inure to the benefit of, and be binding
upon, the Parties, their respective legal representatives, successors, heirs, and assigns;
provided, however, that nothing in this paragraph shall be construed to permit the
assignment of this AGREEMENT.
9.5 NOTICES. Any notice or notification required or permitted by the AGREEMENT
shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been sufficiently given for all purposes
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if sent by certified mail or registered mail, postage and fees prepaid, addressed to the
notice person designated by each Party pursuant to Section 4.3 of the AGREEMENT.
Such notice or notification shall be deemed to have been given when deposited in the
United States mail.
9.6 TABOR COMPLIANCE; NO GENERAL OBLIGATION INDEBTEDNESS.
Because this AGREEMENT may extend beyond the current fiscal year, all of the
Parties understand and intend that the obligation of the Parties for committing monetary
funding hereunder constitutes a current expense of the Parties payable exclusively from
the Parties’ funds and appropriated each fiscal year and shall not in any way be
construed to be a multi-fiscal year debt or other financial obligations within the
meaning of Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution, a general obligation
indebtedness of the Parties within the meaning of any provision of Article XI of the
Colorado Constitution, or any other constitutional or statutory indebtedness.
9.7 GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE. This AGREEMENT shall be governed by the
laws of the State of Colorado. Venue for any action arising under this AGREEMENT
will be in the appropriate court for Jefferson County, Colorado.
9.8 BINDING AUTHORITY. The Parties represent and affirm that the signature page
hereof accurately states the full legal name of the entity, contains all requisite
signature(s) on behalf of the Party, has been properly acknowledged by attestation,
notary acknowledgment, or both.
9.9 COUNTERPARTS. This AGREEMENT may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original and all such counterparts
taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument. The Parties
acknowledge and agree that the original of this AGREEMENT, including the signature
page, may be scanned and stored in a computer database or similar device, and that any
printout or other output readable by sight, the reproduction of which is shown to
accurately reproduce the original of this AGREEMENT, may be used for any purpose
as if it were the original, including proof of the content of the original writing.
9.10 GOVERNMENT IMMUNITY. No portion of this AGREEMENT shall be deemed
to constitute a waiver of any immunities the Parties, or their officers or employees may
possess, nor shall any portion of this AGREEMENT be deemed to have created a duty
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of care which did not previously exist with respect to any person not a party to this
AGREEMENT.
[SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW]
9 COE.TWR.00601
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE a Colorado municipal corporation
By:
Name: Title:
ATTEST: _________________________________
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_____________________
City Attorney
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CITY OF GOLDEN a Colorado municipal corporation
By:________________________________ Name: Title:
ATTEST:
_________________________________ City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________ City Attorney
11 COE.TWR.00601
CITY OF EDGEWATER, a Colorado municipal corporation
________________________________ Laura Keegan, Mayor
ATTEST: _________________________________
Lenore Pedroza, CMC, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________________ Thad Renaud, City Attorney