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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-27-2025 City Council Meeting MinutesPage 1 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO DATE: October 27, 2025 TIME: 6:30 p.m. Note: This meeting was conducted in a hybrid format, with some members of the Council and City staff were physically present at the Municipal Building, located at 7500 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, and other attending virtually. Members of the public also participated both in person and online. Before calling the meeting to order, Mayor Starker outlined the rules and procedures required by this meeting format. 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Bud Starker called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Those present stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. 3. ROLL CALL Councilmembers present: Korey Stites, Leah Dozeman, Rachel Hultin, Janeece Hoppe, Dan Larson, Scott Ohm, Jenny Snell, and Amanda Weaver were in attendance. A quorum was declared. Also present: City Manager Patrick Goff, City Attorney Gerald Dahl, Police Chief Chris Murtha, Parks and Recreation Director Karen O'Donnell, Community Development Director Lauren Mikulak, Senior Planner Stephanie Stevens, Deputy City Clerk Onorina Maloney and interested members of the public. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES None 5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA There were no changes to the agenda. 6. PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES Page 2 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 1. Proclamation – National Native American Heritage Month Councilmembers Hultin and Snell presented a proclamation recognizing November 2025 as Native American Heritage Month in Wheat Ridge. It highlighted the importance of honoring Native American history, culture, and contributions, especially for the more 500 Indigenous residents in the community. The proclamation acknowledged the area's traditional tribal lands, and the 48 tribal nations connected to Colorado. It also addressed the lasting impacts of genocide, racism, and assimilation, while encouraging respect, learning, and reconciliation. 2. Proclamation – National Veterans and Military Families Month Mayor Bud Starker presented a proclamation declaring November 2025 as National Veterans and Military Families Month in Wheat Ridge, honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families. The proclamation recognized their patriotism, resilience, and contributions to the nation. Officer Ismail Sadhykov accepted the proclamation on behalf of his department, noting his current service in the National Guard and expressing appreciation for the support of City Council and the community. 7. PUBLICS’ RIGHT TO SPEAK Holly Haynes, a Wheat Ridge resident, spoke about her volunteer work at Happiness Gardens, where she helped create a native plant garden with community support. She praised Kristen Dennis for her horticultural knowledge and community-building efforts and noted a 2023 grant that expanded the garden and added a food forest in partnership with Denver Urban Gardens. She emphasized the importance of community gardens in fostering connection and health. Pat Quinn thanked Council for their service and shared that he has attended meetings for years to better understand city operations. He specifically praised Mayor Starker’s leadership, which he tries to emulate when chairing Planning Commission meetings. His residency was not specified. Kathleen Martell expressed appreciation to Council and Mayor Starker, saying she has been inspired to run for Council herself after attending meetings for years. She thanked outgoing members and shared her regret at not being able to serve alongside them if elected. Her residency was not specified. Morgan Richards, a Wheat Ridge resident, small business owner, and founder of Wheat Ridge for Equity, thanked Council for supporting the Indigenous Peoples Day proclamation and urged them to publicly condemn a Nazi symbol recently found in JEPCO open space. She stressed the importance of standing against hate and honoring the Jewish community’s history in Wheat Ridge. Page 3 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 Alexis Hoffkling thanked Council for their service and praised their respectful engagement across differences in identity, values, and worldview. She commended their courage and grace in handling difficult conversations. Her residency was not specified. Amy DePierre, a District 2 resident and food systems scholar, spoke virtually about the situation at Happiness Gardens, pointing to deeper issues of communication, power, and cultural understanding. She expressed respect for both Kristen Dennis and Narissa Rivera and urged the city to prioritize dialogue, mediation, and cultural awareness training to prevent future conflict. Terry Gale, speaking virtually, identified himself as African American and a member of the Wheat Ridge Race and Equity Task Force. He urged Council to continue prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and expressed confidence in the city’s commitment to doing the right thing. Wheat Ridge Speaks Comments: Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Melissa B I support the rezoning at 10285 Ridge Road, and hope that Wheat Ridge City Council will as well. This project will bring housing for a mix of income levels and age levels that complements the existing market-rate apartments that have been built in the area over the last decade. It is hard to find a project that identifies and meets such a broad range of size and income needs, including those of both families and seniors. This project should be applauded for doing so! Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Jordan Green Resident of Arvada however, I feel compelled to address this proposal as our cities among all municipalities within the metro area have had a chokehold on development for too long, contributing to our cost-of-living crisis which includes the lack of housing supply along with expensive car dependency. This development helps with therefore I urge you to approve the rezoning at 10285 Ridge Road. The project aligns with Wheat Ridge’s long-term plans for this parcel to become a “Transit Village”—a hub for housing with convenient access to transit (via the Arvada Ridge G Line station), essential goods/services (via the Arvada Ridge Market), and community connection (via Red Rocks Community College). This is smart growth done right, and we need more of it! Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Ryan Pachmayer I support the rezoning at 10285 Ridge Road because it will add housing for various income levels that is sorely needed in our community. I live about two miles away from Page 4 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 this property and I am encouraged in seeing a project like this. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Bryan Brasher I strongly support the rezoning project: it is exactly the kind of thoughtful, forward- looking development our region needs. Turning an underused and deteriorating site into nearly 200 affordable and workforce-targeted homes, right next to the Arvada Ridge G Line station, means more opportunities for people to live, work, and thrive without relying on a car for every daily need. This proposal embodies the spirit of Wheat Ridge’s “Transit Village” vision, promoting walkability, access to education through Red Rocks Community College, and proximity to essential services. It creates a vibrant, connected neighborhood that will spur long-term economic vitality, increase property values, and reduce the stagnation that often comes from car-dependent suburban sprawl. By approving this rezoning, City Council can help build a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous Wheat Ridge for generations to come and be a leader in innovative, future- oriented development. Don’t let other cities leave Wheat Ridge behind. Please approve this rezoning and support the Foothills Regional Housing project at Ridge Road. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Margaret Robinson Hello, I am a resident of Wheat Ridge and I fully support rezoning the old Ridge Home property at 10285 Ridge Road. I remember in the 60's when a friend of mine volunteered at the facility and told horror stories of the institutionalized disabled persons housed there. It is time we clean up this blighted property with such a sad past, and let it become a community asset with housing that average working people such as teachers, police officers, and healthcare workers can afford. Wheat Ridge (and Arvada) need more choices for affordable housing, and this is a great location, being adjacent to light rail and the Arvada Ridge Market. Thank you for considering this much needed project. Sincerely, Margaret Robinson 4 Hillside Dr. Wheat Ridge Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Susan M. Motika Please support the rezoning at 10285 Ridge Road. It's high time this parcel be converted from an empty, abandoned building to transit-oriented development, with convenient access to the G line station and the Arvada Ridge Market. Wheat Ridge is sorely in need of mixed income, affordable housing. I've lived in Wheat Ridge for 29 years and now see my son and many of his peers struggling to buy property in our community. They are our future -- and this project is an important response to our housing affordability crisis. I'm also supportive of the proposed expansion of Red Rocks Community College (RRCC). As four-year colleges become increasingly unaffordable, our community college system should continue to offer education and training for jobs with a future. I have recently attended and obtained a certificate from RRCC and am wholly supportive of this Page 5 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 institution having a closer nexus with Wheat Ridge -- and this planned development. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Judy Douglass I live just over the border in Arvada, but I hope you will listen. I've lived in the area for 50 years and remember when I toured the facility for children who were extremely disabled. Now it's time to provide housing for the types of people who have served our community for decades. Most care givers, CNAs, teachers in today's world are living in Aurora or Commerce City with long commutes and high travel costs. Our aging population needs service workers more than ever; we need them as neighbors. Unfortunately, many in our community are stuck in myths thinking that affordable means the mentally ill street fella is moving in. Please look beyond their myths and misbeliefs and do the right thing. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Stacy Liles Hey There, I urge you to approve the rezoning at 10285 Ridge Road. The project aligns with Wheat Ridge’s long-term plans for this parcel to become a “Transit Village”—a hub for housing with convenient access to transit (via the Arvada Ridge G Line station), essential goods/services (via the Arvada Ridge Market), and community connection (via Red Rocks Community College). I live right over the line on the Arvada side of the G Line but as we know housing supply is a regional concern and not just city specific problem. I know plenty of people that would benefit from this type of housing option. This is smart growth done right, and we need more of it! Thanks! Stacy Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Rayna Oliker We desperately need more affordable housing in this community! With only single-family homes, there isn't a more accessible option for teachers, nurses, and service workers who want to live where they work! These are members of our community, and they deserve options that work for them. Since it's on the G line, this could be a perfect place for my friends who work in Olde Town to live and commute by train to work. It sounds like an incredible project in a perfect location. Thank you for supporting it! Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Kim Calomino As a 35-year Wheat Ridge resident, longtime community advocate and the mother of young adults that I hope will have opportunities to remain living in the area, I fully support the rezoning of 10285 Ridge Road – a long vacant and blighted property – to allow affordable housing for seniors and families and an expansion of Red Rocks Community College on site. The proposed zoning is in alignment with Wheat Ridge City Plan, which designates this as a Transit Village, encouraging a mix of uses and Page 6 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 increased density near transit, and the Affordable Housing Strategy and Action Plan, which identifies need for a range of multifamily affordable units. In addition, Foothills Regional Housing has voluntarily included context-sensitive design, like lower building heights along the northern border to respect the adjacent single-family homes and slope of the site. With its proximity to Arvada, this housing also serves as a regional response to affordable housing needs. I believe this application meets the criteria for rezoning and will activate and bring new life to this property for students, for seniors and for families. I support the rezoning and ask for your support as well. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Harrison Wilterdink I'm an Arvada resident but am also around the Arvada Ridge area all the time (it's one of the easiest places I can ride my bike to for groceries!). I encourage the Wheat Ridge City Council to support this project. The proposal includes a mix of unit sizes and types (1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom) that will make it really well suited for a wide range of income levels and people, including both families and seniors. The proposal aligns very well with local housing needs in both Wheat Ridge and Arvada, is a good complement to nearby market-rate housing built in the last decade and is overall a great addition to the increasingly transit-oriented nature of this area. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Allison Phipps I live in Skyline in Arvada just around the corner from the planned Ridge Road development. I am in full support of the plan for affordable housing so close the light rail stop and the Red Rocks Community College campus. I think it will be a great place to include those units and provide much-needed housing for people working in Wheat Ridge and Arvada. My only concern is increased traffic and speeding in the residential area. So please consider additional speed signage and the addition of crosswalks and crossing signage to give pedestrians safe places to cross residential roads in the surrounding neighborhoods. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Patrick Noonan I am weighing in as an Arvada resident concerned about housing costs in our community. While I don’t live in Wheat Ridge, the challenge of affording a place to live doesn't end when you cross the street. Right now, Jefferson County is on track to break last year’s record setting eviction filing rates*. Far too many families are struggling with the cost of housing and reaching a breaking point. It is easy to point the finger at families facing these challenges, but the reality is that this is a market challenge that we can meaningfully address. Responding with resources that provide housing solutions is critical to ensuring housing instability in our community doesn’t worsen. The development of more housing offers critical relief to residents struggling to keep up Page 7 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 with high rents in our supply constrained environment. Please prioritize this essential work and approve this zoning change. What a great opportunity to locate housing near our public transit to help boost ridership and reduce congestion! *https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/eviction-filings Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Mindy Mohr October 21, 2025 Letter in Support of Rezoning the Property owned by Foothills Regional Housing (FRH) at approximately 10285 RIDGE RD ARVADA CO 80033 I am unable to attend the City Council meeting on October 27, but wish to submit these comments as a resident who lived for several years within walking distance of this property (at 10149 W. 55th Drive); I currently still live in Arvada, CO. I am also a member of the Jefferson County Housing Continuum Task Force, the Jeffco Community Network, and the Arvada Housing Advisory Committee, although my comments do not officially represent those groups. This parcel of land is the last remaining vestige of the old Ridge Home (Colorado State Home and Training School), and the buildings have sat abandoned since its closure in 1992. I am so delighted that Foothills Regional Housing has finally been able to obtain this parcel, and will turn it into a community asset with the possibilities of creating affordable housing as well as opportunities for education and training I urge you to vote Yes for the rezoning as a positive activation of the site and for meeting Wheat Ridge's goals for transit oriented development and affordable housing. Item No. 3 - ORD - Ridge Road Rezone Jessica Shymkiw This rezoning would greatly benefit the people of Wheat Ridge. I have lived here for a long time and it's time for a change. This would help teachers and health care workers live in the community they serve. It will help people on disability afford to live independently, with dignity. We need this. Thank you for your time. 8. CONSENT AGENDA a. Motion approving a waiver of the city’s right of first refusal related to the sale of Fruitdale School Lofts ISSUE: Fruitdale School Partners LLC intends to sell the Fruitdale School Lofts property to Foothills Regional Housing. The purpose of the sale is to ensure the long-term affordability of the 16 dwelling units. A recently approved state law provides local governments with the right of first refusal to purchase qualifying affordable housing properties. The purpose of this motion is to waive that right, allowing the sale to proceed. Councilmember Larson read the motion and the Issue into the record. Page 8 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 Motion: Councilmember Larson moved to approve a waiver of the city’s right of first refusal related to the sale of Fruitdale School Lofts b. Resolution No. 51-2025 – a resolution approving an Intergovernmental Agreement with Mile High Flood District regarding design of drainage and flood control improvements for Clear Creek at 44th Avenue to Balsam Street ISSUE: The Mile High Flood District plans to advance the preliminary design of floodplain improvements of Clear Creek in the Clearvale neighborhood. The project is situated between West 44th Avenue and Balsam Street ending east of the Charlie Brown pedestrian bridge. An agreement with the Mile High Flood District needs to be executed to outline the responsibilities and funding obligations to advance the project. Future agreements between the city and the Mile High Flood District are anticipated for the final design and construction. Motion 1A: Councilmember Larson moved to approve a waiver of the city’s right of first refusal related to the sale of Fruitdale School Lofts. Motion 1B: Councilmember Larson moved to approve Resolution 51-2025, a resolution approving an intergovernmental agreement with Mile High Flood District regarding design of drainage and flood control improvements for Clear Creek at 44th Avenue to Balsam Street. Motion 1A and Motion 1B were moved by Councilmember Larson. The motions were seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Stites VOTE: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motions carried PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING 9. Resolution No. 52-2025 – a resolution adopting the City budget and appropriating sums of money to the various funds and spending agencies for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2026 budget year. Mayor Pro Tem Stites introduced Resolution No. 52-2025. Mayor Starker opened the public hearing at 7 p.m. and invited City Manager Patrick Goff to present the proposed budget. Goff presented the 2026 proposed budget, shaped by the City Council’s updated mission and priorities. The $126 million budget—spread across general, special, and capital funds—allocates $101 million, leaving a $24 million balance. It reflects a 6% Page 9 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 increase over 2025. General fund revenue is projected at $51 million, with sales tax making up 56% and expected to grow modestly. Expenditures total just over $53 million, driven by software upgrades, radar system fees, and rising personnel costs. Community support includes funding for the Carnation Festival ($100K), Wheat Ridge Business District ($120K), Local Works ($326K), and $203K in grants to 33 partners. Major capital investments include $9.8 million for street and drainage projects, $2.2 million from the Renewal Wheat Ridge bond fund, $21.4 million from the 2J Bond Fund for corridors, sidewalks, and drainage, and $7.1 million for open space acquisitions, park upgrades, and a new outdoor pool design. Council Questions: Council inquired whether the budget narrative included projections for the potential sales of other City-owned properties along Wadsworth Boulvevard, noting there are three significant parcels currently on the market, and if the anticipated revenue from these sales had been reflected in the 2026 budget and how such proceeds might affect the unrestricted fund balance. Goff clarified that revenues from potential property sales on Wadsworth were not included in the 2026 budget due to uncertainty regarding the timing of those transactions. Once the sales are completed, the proceeds will be directed the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget, as those properties were originally purchased through that fund. There were no additional questions. Mayor Starker closed the public hearing at 7:11 p.m. Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Stites moved to approve Resolution No. 52-2025, a resolution adopting the City Budget and appropriating sums of money to the various funds and spending agencies for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2026 Budget Year. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Hoppe. Discussion on the Motion: Councilmember Hultin proposed an amendment to the budget: $35,000 to engage a consultant to provide cultural awareness training, work with the Parks and Recreation Department on strategic partnerships for land access and food sovereignty, develop sustainable relationships with tribal partners, and develop a community garden strategic partnership and operations plan. Motion to amend was seconded by Councilmember Hoppe. There was discussion about whether this addition was appropriate at this stage of the budget process, with Councilmember Larson opposing the late introduction and Councilmember Dozeman suggesting the incoming council should address these issues. Page 10 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 Vote: 6 ayes; 2 nays. Mayor Pro Tem Stites and Councilmembers Hoppe, Hultin, Ohm, Snell, and Weaver voted in favor. Councilmembers Larson and Dozeman voted against. The motion to amend carried Council expressed appreciation to staff for preparing a well-organized budget that reflects priorities and values, along with acknowledging fiscal responsibility, adaptability, and creativity in addressing past challenges. It was noted that the city continues to operate efficiently without adding new staff positions and praised the use of merit-based pay as a fair method of recognizing high performance. Council discussed adding a future study session on conducting an equity audit, recognizing the expertise of city staff in this area. Consensus was reached to include it on a future agenda. There was no further discussion on the motion. Vote: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motion, as amended, carried. 10. Council Bill No. 19-2025 – an ordinance approving the rezoning of property located at 10285 Ridge Road from Agricultural-One (A-1) to Mixed-Use Commercial – Transit Oriented Development (MUC-TOD) Councilmember Dozeman introduced Bill No. 19-2025 Mayor Starker opened the public hearing at 7:32 p.m. Goff introduced Senior Planner Stephanie Stevens. Stevens presented a request for a zone change from Agricultural-1 to Mixed Use Commercial Transit Oriented Development for a 10.89-acre affordable housing project located north of Ridge Road, west of Miller Street, and south of West 54th Avenue. The site, formerly a group home campus owned by the State of Colorado, contains vacant buildings undergoing remediation and slated for demolition. The property was sold to Jefferson County Regional Housing (Foothills Regional Housing) with the condition it be developed primarily for affordable housing with secondary community services. The concept plan includes up to 200 residential units— townhomes, apartments, and age-restricted housing—along with educational, office, and community-supporting commercial uses, including a Red Rocks Community College building for nursing program expansion. Marcus Pachner, representing Foothills Regional Housing, noted the site had been Page 11 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 abandoned for over 30 years and was purchased in 2024. The project targets households averaging 60% Area Median Income (AMI), with half expected to be children and third elderly or disabled. He highlighted extensive community outreach, with over 150 participants, which influenced the design, including building height transitions from 2-story townhomes to 4-story apartments. Public Comments: Kim Calomino spoke in support of the zoning change, noting that she has lived in Wheat Ridge for 35 years and is an advocate for affordable housing and diverse housing options. She stated that this project would address a long-vacant and blighted part of the community and aligns with the city plan's designation of the site as a transit village. Questions from Council: Council asked about adjacent land use, public outreach, project density, building height and the partnership with Red Rocks Community College. Staff noted the west side neighbors Skyline Estates includes open space that serves a natural buffer. Only one neighborhood meeting was required, but three were held, resulting in useful community input. Staff stated the concept plan limits density to about 20 units per acre, or 200 total units, with building heights of up to four stories, tapering to two or three stories along 54th Avenue. The applicant explained that the northeast portion of the site is planned for an education building to be owned by Red Rocks as part of its campus expansion, with a formal agreement to follow zoning approval. With no further questions from Council, Mayor Starker closed the public hearing at 8:10 p.m. Motion: Councilmember Dozeman moved to approve Council Bill No. 19-2025, an ordinance approving the rezoning of property located at 10285 Ridge Road from Agricultural 1 (A1) to mixed-use commercial transit-oriented development (MUC-TOD), on second reading, order it published, and that it takes effect 15 days after final publication as provided by section 5.11 of the charter. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Ohm. Council discussion on the motion: Councilmembers expressed strong support for the project, with several noting the contrast to a previous proposal for the site that had faced significant opposition. They praised the extensive community engagement process and the partnership with Red Rocks Community College. Council members also highlighted the importance of affordable housing and the thoughtful design that responds to neighborhood concerns. Vote: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motion carried. At 8:10 pm, Mayor Starker called for a brief recess. Meeting reconvened at 8:18 p.m. Page 12 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 11. Council Bill No. 20-2025 – an ordinance adopting by reference the 2024 editions of the International Building and related codes including local and conforming amendments. Introduced by Councilmember Hoppe. Mayor Starker opened the public hearing at 8:19 p.m. Goff introduced Lauren Mikulak who presented the update and noted that Council had previously discussed the building code update during an August study session. Key elements included residential sprinkler requirements and the reorganization of Chapter 5, with administrative provisions now consolidated into one article to align with the International Building Code format and make future updates more efficient. Mikulak noted that the Building Code Advisory Board had reviewed the draft on August 11th and voted unanimously on September 30th to recommend approval. If approved, permit applicants may use either the 2018 or 2024 codes through the end of this year, with all permit submittals complying with the 2024 codes beginning next year. The new townhome sprinkler requirement would take effect one year later, in January 2027. Questions from Council: Council asked for clarification about the residential sprinkler requirements, and Mikulak confirmed that the current exemption applies to one-family, duplex, and townhome units, but the new code would require sprinklers for townhomes only, with a longer implementation timeline to anticipate costs and coordination with water districts. Public hearing closed at 8:25 p.m. Councilmember Hoppe moved to approve Council Bill No. 20-2025, an ordinance adopting by reference the 2024 editions of the international building and related codes, including local and conforming amendments with any technical, numbering, and conforming corrections as approved by the city attorney on second reading, order it published, it takes effect immediately after final publication. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Stites. Council discussion: Council thanked staff. Vote: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motion carried. ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING None Page 13 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS, AND MOTIONS 12. Resolution No. 53-2025 - a resolution levying general property taxes for the year 2025, to help defray the cost of Government for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2026 budget year. Councilmember Ohm introduced the resolution. Goff briefly explained that the net assessed valuation for the city for 2025 was just over $844 million, an increase of about 6% over the previous year. He noted that TABOR requires any increase in the mill levy to go to a vote of the people, so the city would continue with the same mill levy to generate property tax revenue for next year's budget. Questions from Council: None Motion: Councilmember Ohm moved to approve Resolution No. 53-2025 - a resolution levying general property taxes for the year 2025, to help defray the cost of Government for the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for the 2026 budget year. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Dozeman. Council discussion on the motion: none Vote: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motion carried. 13. Resolution No. 54-2025 – a resolution establishing an expedited review policy for affordable housing projects ISSUE: This resolution affirms the City’s commitment to prioritizing affordable housing by formally adopting an expedited review process, as outlined in the internal policy document approved by the Community Development Director. The policy ensures that developments with at least fifty percent (50%) affordable housing units are reviewed, and a decision rendered within ninety (90) days of a complete application, in compliance with Proposition 123 requirements. Councilmember Snell read the title of the resolution and the Issue into the record. Public Comment: Kim Calomino spoke in support of the resolution, thanking the Council for continuing to work toward improving the availability of affordable housing in the community. Questions from Council: Council asked how expedited review would work. Mikulak explained that affordable housing projects receive priority in the review process. The department works with applicants to create a custom schedule and offers hands-on support through housing Page 14 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 planner Shannon Terrell, who serves as the project expediter. The 90-day review deadline applies to both city staff and applicants, requiring close coordination throughout. Motion: Councilmember Snell moved to approve Resolution 54-2025, a resolution adopting an expedited review policy for affordable housing projects. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Hoppe. Council discussion: none Vote: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motion carried. 14. Resolution No. 55-2025 – a resolution adopting the Wheat Ridge Parks & Recreation Pathway as the Parks & Recreation Department’s 10-year master plan. Councilmember Hultin introduced Resolution No. 55-2025 Parks and Recreation Director Karen O'Donnell introduced JR Clanton from Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture, who presented the updated Parks and Recreation Pathway. The team spent 18 months revising the 10-year master plan, with a draft shared with Council in July. Clanton highlighted strong community engagement, including event participation, a survey with over 400 responses, and online input. The assessment covered park services, facilities, demographics, benchmarking, and user activity. Based on this, they developed strategic priorities with short-, mid-, and long-term goals. Capital recommendations are grouped into general, park-specific, and facility-specific categories, with cost details in Appendix E. Questions from Council: Council inquired about strategies for underutilized parks and the inclusion of outdoor environmental and cultural enrichment programs. O'Donnell explained that while the master plan includes general recommendations for amenities and programming, more detailed discussions on specific parks may be needed. She also noted that the department currently offers some environmental and cultural programs, with room for growth based on community input. Motion: Councilmember Hultin moved to approve Resolution 55-2025, a resolution adopting the Wheat Ridge Parks & Recreation Pathway as the Parks & Recreation Department’s 10-year master plan. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Dozeman. Council discussion on the motion: Page 15 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 Council expressed strong support for the updated master plan, commending the thorough community outreach, detailed data collection, and forward-looking framework that will guide future investments. Council emphasized that parks are central to community identity and valued the plan’s combination of long-term vision. Vote: 8 ayes; 0 nays. The motion carried. 15. A motion approving the designation of Colorado State Highway 121 (Wadsworth Boulevard) and Colorado State Highway 391 (Kipling Street), between 32nd Avenue and 50th Avenue, as official automated speed corridors. Councilmember Weaver introduced the motion. The reading of the Issue was waived. Goff introduced Chief Murtha. Chief Murtha requested Council approval to continue Wheat Ridge’s automated speed camera program, originally approved in October 2024, as required by state law. The program, supported by CDOT and Colorado State Patrol, aims to improve safety and reduce speeding through technology-based enforcement. Since its launch, citations have dropped by 30% and speeds by 10–15%. Initial enforcement will use handheld cameras to identify problem areas, with potential deployment of mobile or fixed units. Advance signage will ensure drivers are notified. Questions from Council: Council asked about the type, approval, and process for speed enforcement. Chief Murtha said handheld devices will be used first, with mobile or fixed camera added later if needed. Approval allows enforcement on state highways after coordination with state agencies. Data will stay with the City of Wheat Ridge, stored for 30 days and not shared. Signs will alert the public before enforcement begins. The Chief confirmed this is a traffic safety program only and that citations will be processed automatically. Motion: Councilmember Weaver moved to approve the designation of Colorado State Highway 121 (Wadsworth Boulevard) and Colorado State Highway 391 (Kipling Street), between 32nd Avenue and 50th Avenue, as official automated speed corridors. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Stites. Council discussion on the motion: Council agreed that the automated speed enforcement program is working well and reached a consensus to delay enforcement on Wadsworth until at least six months after major construction is finished. The Police Chief confirmed there are no current plans for fixed cameras and supported the delay, with July 1, 2026, as the earliest start date. Council cited concerns about driver adjustment, past technical issues, and jurisdiction Page 16 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 over state highways, and emphasized a preference for community-based policing over technology-driven enforcement. Vote: 7 ayes; 1 nay. Mayor Pro Tem Stites and Councilmembers Hoppe, Hultin, Larson, Ohm, Snell and Weaver voted in favor. Councilmember Dozeman voted against. The motion carried. 16. CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS Goff informed the Council that with the federal government shutdown, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits have been suspended. He announced that Family Tree and Community Table food banks had food drives, with donation locations at City Hall, the Recreation Center, Active Adult Center, and the Family Tree office at 38th and Marshall in Wheat Ridge. He encouraged donations of non-perishable food items to help those in need. 17. CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS No matters to present. 18. ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS Councilmember Snell thanked the public for participating in the meeting, reminded everyone to drive safely on Halloween, and noted progress on the tennis courts at Panorama Park. Councilmember Hultin highlighted the impact of suspended SNAP benefits in Jefferson County, where over 22,000 households rely on $7.6 million monthly—generating $7.5 million in local food sales. She urged support for food drives and Feeding Jeffco Together, promoted Grange membership, and condemned a swastika on I-70, expressing solidarity with the Jewish community. Councilmember Larson noted utility work at the I-70 underpass on Garrison Street, requesting that drivers not honk horns or rev motorcycles when passing through the construction zone. Councilmember Dozeman reflected on her eight years of service on Council, expressing gratitude for the camaraderie even during disagreements. She mentioned recent community events she attended with her family and addressed the diversity, equity, and inclusion work that has been highlighted in recent weeks. Councilmember Weaver delivered a heartfelt thank you to each Council member, highlighting their unique qualities and contributions. She expressed gratitude for her Page 17 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 seven years of service and shared parting advice about listening, integrity, and seeking to understand others. Councilmember Ohm praised Councilmember Weaver for her service and addressed hateful graffiti in Wheat Ridge, particularly under the Kipling tunnel, noting that when reported, the parks department quickly removes it. He also expressed appreciation for the positive community response to the affordable housing project. Mayor Pro Tem Stites echoed concerns about anti-Semitic incidents and suggested the IDEA Committee develop a response. He offered condolences on the passing of Paul Demott, a District 3 resident, and congratulated the Wheat Ridge High School band on competing in state championships. He reminded residents that the upcoming Tuesday was voting day and encouraged support for Ballot Issue 2B. Mayor Starker expressed that being mayor has been "the honor of my lifetime" and praised the Council, staff, and residents of Wheat Ridge, noting the city's accomplishments and strong sense of community. 19. EXECUTIVE SESSION At 9:32 p.m., Mayor Pro Tem Stites moved to go into executive session for a conference with the City Attorney, City Manager, and appropriate staff under Charter Section 5.7(b)(1) and CRS 24-6-402(4)(f), for a personnel matter: performance review of the City Manager, and further to reconvene the open meeting at the conclusion of the executive session for the purpose of taking any actions deemed necessary. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Ohm. The motion carried. Executive session commenced at 9:38 p.m. and concluded at 10:30 p.m., and Council returned to the open meeting at 10:31 p.m. 20. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Starker adjourned the Regular Council Meeting at 10:31 p.m. Attest: ______________________________________ Onorina Z. Maloney, Deputy City Clerk Page 18 of 18 MINUTES- CITY COUNCIL MEETING - CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO- Monday, October 27, 2025 ______________________________________ Korey Stites, Mayor Pro Tem