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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-09-26 City Council Agenda PacketCITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO CITY COUNCIL ORIENTATION SESSION Monday, February 9, 2026 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Location: Municipal Building, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO Lobby Conference Room – In Person Only NOTICE This orientation session is for newly elected City Council members. A quorum may be present. No public business will be discussed, and no formal action will be taken. This session is informational only. AGENDA 1. Police Department Overview 2. Questions & Informal Discussion 3. Adjournment  Councilmembers will proceed to the Regular City Council Meeting at 6:30 p.m. AGENDA CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO Monday, February 9, 2026 6:30 p.m. This meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting, and in person, at: 7500 West 29th Avenue, Municipal Building, Council Chambers. City Council members and City staff members will be physically present at the Municipal building for this meeting. The public may participate in these ways: 1. Attend the meeting in person at City Hall. Use the appropriate roster to sign up to speak upon arrival. 2. Provide comment in advance at www.wheatridgespeaks.org (comment by noon on February 9, 2026) 3. Virtually attend and participate in the meeting through a device or phone: Click here to pre-register and provide public comment by Zoom (You must preregister before 5:00 p.m. on February 9, 2026) 4. View the meeting live or later at www.wheatridgespeaks.org, Channel 8, or YouTube Live at https://www.ci.wheatridge.co.us/view Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. The City will upon request, provide auxiliary aids and services leading to effective communication for people with disabilities, including qualified sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, documents in Braille, and other ways of making communications accessible to people who have speech, hearing, or vision impairments. To request auxiliary aid, service for effective communication, or document in a different format, please use this form or contact ADA Coordinator, (Kelly McLaughlin at ada@ci.wheatridge.co.us or 303-235-2885) as soon as possible, preferably 7 days before the activity or event. CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS APPROVAL OF MINUTES City Council Meeting Minutes, January 26, 2026 APPROVAL OF AGENDA PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES 1. Proclamation – Black History Month PUBLICS’ RIGHT TO SPEAK a. Public may speak on any matter not on the agenda for a maximum of 3 minutes under Publics’ Right to Speak. Please speak up to be heard when directed by the mayor. b. Members of the Public who wish to speak on a Public Hearing item or Decision, Resolution, or Motion may speak when directed by the mayor at the conclusion of the staff report for that specific agenda item. c. Members of the Public may comment on any agenda item in writing by noon on the day of the meeting at www.WheatRidgeSpeaks.org. Comments made on Wheat Ridge Speaks are considered part of the public record. 1. CONSENT AGENDA a. Resolution No. 07-2026 – a resolution approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the Cities of Wheat Ridge and Edgewater concerning regional homeless navigator services b. Resolution No. 08-2026 – a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $423,775 for automated vehicle identification services c. Resolution No. 09-2026 – a resolution of support for an application to the Colorado Energy Office Local IMPACT Accelerator grant PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING 2. Council Bill No. 02-2026 – an ordinance amending Chapter 13 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning vehicle muffler requirements ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING 3. Council Bill No. 03-2026 – an ordinance repealing Article IV of Chapter 11 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning amusement arcades and amusement centers 4. Council Bill No. 04-2026 – an ordinance amending Chapter 7 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning write in candidate affidavits DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS, AND MOTIONS 5. Motion to make an appointment to fill the City Clerk vacancy, term ending November 8, 2027 6. Motion proposing adopting the 2026 Legislative Agenda EXECUTIVE SESSION Executive session under Charter Section 5.7(b)(1) and CRS 24-6-402(4)(b): conference with the city attorney, city manager and appropriate staff for legal advice on specific legal questions: federal grant conditions. Return to open meeting to take any actions deemed necessary. CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS ADJOURN TO SPECIAL STUDY SESSION Page 1 of 7 MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO Monday, January 26, 2026—6:30 p.m. The meeting was held in a hybrid format, with Councilmembers, City staff, and members of the public participating either in person at the Municipal Building (7500 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado) or virtually. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Korey Stites called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Those present stood, if able, and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS Present: Rachel Hultin, Dan Larson, Scott Ohm, Mike Okada, Patrick Quinn, Jenny Snell, Susan Wood. Absent: Kathleen Martell A quorum was established. Also present: City Manager Patrick Goff, City Attorney Gerald Dahl, Director of Parks and Recreation Karen O’Donnell, Director of Public Works Kent Kisselman, Director of Community Development Lauren Mikulak, and Interim Senior Deputy City Clerk Onorina Maloney. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Council approved the Study Session Notes of January 5, 2026, the City Council Meeting Minutes of January 12, 2026, and the Study Session Notes of January 12, 2026, without changes. APPROVAL OF AGENDA The agenda was approved as presented. PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES Proclamation – Holocaust Remembrance Day Mayor Stites presented a proclamation recognizing Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27, 2026, to Guy Nahmiach. The proclamation acknowledged the Holocaust as Page 2 of 7 the state-sponsored persecution and murder of European Jews by Nazi Germany and its collaborators between 1933 and 1945, and recognized that other groups, including Roma, people with disabilities, Poles, gay men, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Soviet prisoners of war, and political dissidents, were also persecuted and killed. The proclamation encouraged reflection and remembrance. PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO SPEAK In person Ronna Burrows, a Wheat Ridge resident, spoke regarding government accountability. Christopher Johnke, a Wheat Ridge resident, spoke regarding an interaction with an individual identifying as a federal law enforcement officer and requested Council review the matter. Deborah Harper spoke regarding a proposed memorial for her late father at the future Wheat Ridge Corner park site and raised questions regarding a local development project. Staff indicated both matters were under review. 1. CONSENT AGENDA a. Resolution No. 02-2026 – a resolution adopting a first amendment to Tax Increment Revenue Agreement between the City of Wheat Ridge and the Wheat Ridge Urban Renewal Authority d/b/a Renewal Wheat Ridge pertaining to the Lutheran Legacy Campus Urban Renewal Plan. Councilmember Wood read the title into the record. b. Motion to approve monthly payments to Pinnacol Assurance for 2026 Workers Compensation Insurance in an amount not to exceed $343,510. Councilmember Wood read the title into the record. c. Resolution No. 03-2026 – a resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement with Jefferson County Parks and Open Space to accept a 2026 Trails Partnership Program grant in the amount of $180,099.50 for asphalt mill and overlay rehabilitation at Anderson and Prospect Parks parking lots. Councilmember Wood read the title into the record d. Resolution No. 04-2026 – a resolution approving a third amendment to Intergovernmental Agreement to establish the Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory. Councilmember Wood read the title into the record. Motion: Councilmember Wood moved to approve Consent Agenda Items 1a through 1d. Page 3 of 7 Second: Councilmember Ohm. Vote: 7 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING 2. Council Bill No. 01-2026 – an ordinance amending the Code of Laws to align with certain provisions of state law ISSUE: This ordinance amends the penalty authority of the municipal court for municipal code offenses which are identical to state law offenses (including, importantly, theft and shoplifting). This change is required as a result of a December 22, 2025, decision of the Colorado Supreme Court. Councilmember Quinn read the title and issue into the record Mayor Stites opened the public hearing. City Attorney Dahl explained that a recent Colorado Supreme Court decision requires municipalities to apply the same sentencing authority as state courts for municipal offenses that mirror state law. He advised that the ordinance amends the Wheat Ridge Municipal Court penalty schedule to align with state statute and preserve the enforceability of municipal convictions, and that the change is expected to have minimal impact on court operations. With no public comments, the public hearing was closed. Motion: Councilmember Quinn moved to approve Council Bill 01-2026, an ordinance amending the Code of Laws to align with certain provisions of state law, on second reading, and that it takes effect fifteen days after final publication as required by the Home Rule Charter. Second: Councilmember Okada. Vote: 7 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING 3. Council Bill No. 02-2026 – an ordinance amending Chapter 13 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning vehicle muffler requirements. ISSUE: Noise produced by motor vehicles with noncompliant, altered, or missing mufflers is injurious to the public health and welfare. This ordinance adopts muffler-specific Code Page 4 of 7 requirements to better address vehicular exhaust noise and its control. Councilmember Larson read the title and issue into the record. Council noted a typographical error in the date on the document, which staff stated would be corrected. Motion: Councilmember Larson moved to approve Council Bill No. 02-2026, an ordinance amending Chapter 13 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning vehicle muffler requirements, order it published and public hearing set for February 9, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, and that it take effect immediately upon adoption at second reading and signature by the Mayor. Second: Councilmember Okada. Vote: 7 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS, AND MOTIONS 4. Motion awarding a contract to RVI in the amount of $636,100 for the West 38th Avenue Refresh project. ISSUE: The 38th Avenue Corridor, between Wadsworth and Sheridan Boulevards, has long been recognized as a priority redevelopment area in Wheat Ridge. In 2011, the 38th Avenue Corridor Plan confirmed the area east of Wadsworth Blvd. as a redevelopment priority and set forth a vision to transform the corridor into the community’s Main Street. In November 2023, Wheat Ridge voters approved the 2J sales tax extension, which focuses on funding critical public infrastructure projects including a “refresh” of 38th Avenue to achieve connectivity, safety, and placemaking goals. RVI Planning and Landscape Architecture was selected after a thorough request for proposal process as the contractor for this project. Councilmember Ohm read the title and issue into the record. City Manager Patrick Goff introduced RVI representatives. RVI representatives provided a brief overview of the project approach. Council discussed the project scope and goals, including corridor connectivity, pedestrian and bicycle access, parking considerations, coordination with recent improvements along Wadsworth Boulevard, and alignment with the City’s Main Street vision for 38th Avenue. Motion: Councilmember Ohm moved to award a contract to RVI in the amount of $636,100 for the West 38th Avenue Refresh Project. Second: Mayor Pro Tem Hultin. Vote: 7 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. Page 5 of 7 5. Resolution No. 05-2026 – a resolution of support for an application to the Jefferson County Parks and Open Space Land Conservation Partnership program for funding to support the acquisition of a remnant RTD parcel at the Wheat Ridge Ward Commuter Rail Station. ISSUE: The Parks and Recreation and Community Development departments seek to apply for funding from the Jefferson County Parks and Open Space (JCPOS) Land Conservation Partnership Program to purchase an approximately 1.15-acre parcel at Taft Ct. and W. 51st Ave from the Regional Transportation District (RTD) for a future neighborhood park. The program will fund up to 25% of the cost of land acquisition, provided the land becomes a public park or open space area. A resolution of support is required from City Council to apply for this funding program. Councilmember Okada read the title and issue into the record. Karen O'Donnell, Director of Parks and Recreation, explained that the Jefferson County Parks and Open Space Land Conservation Partnership Program will fund up to 25% of land acquisition costs if the property becomes a public park or open space. She noted the northwest portion of Wheat Ridge has experienced significant residential growth and lacks park amenities. Lauren Mikulak, Director of Community Development, stated that applying for funding now ensures the City can pursue the opportunity, and that staff would engage the community to determine appropriate park amenities if the parcel is acquired. Council noted that $1 million has been set aside in the proposed 2027 budget to help with either acquisition or development of this parcel and noted many young families in the area would benefit from having a playground, as the existing Metro District park only has exercise equipment. Councilmember Wood disclosed that she works for Regional Transportation District (RTD) but has no influence over this process and no financial interest. The City Attorney confirmed no recusal was necessary. Motion: Councilmember Okada moved to approve Resolution 05-2026, a resolution of support for an application to the Jefferson County Parks and Open Space Land Conservation Partnership Program for funding to support the acquisition of a remnant RTD parcel at the Wheat Ridge Ward Commuter Rail Station. Second: Councilmember Snell. Vote: 7 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. 6. Resolution No. 06-2026 – a resolution amending the fiscal year 2025 General Page 6 of 7 Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $381,881 for contractual Building Division services. ISSUE: Charles Abbott Associates, Inc. (CAA) provides contractual Building Division services for the city. Payment to CAA occurs monthly and is based on permit-related revenues. The 2025 budget approved $868,000 for building division services; however, actual permit activity exceeded estimates resulting in higher contract expenses. This resolution amends the 2025 budget to reconcile revenues and expenses and to allow payment of year-end invoices. Mikulak provided background on the City’s contractual partnership with Charles Abbott Associates (CAA) for Building Division services, noting that the contract was renewed last year following a competitive process. She explained that payment is tied to permit revenue and that the supplemental budget reconciles higher-than-anticipated activity. Council confirmed that payment to the contractor would adjust proportionally if permit revenue declines. Motion: Councilmember Snell moved to approve Resolution 06-2026, a resolution amending the fiscal year 2025 General Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $381,881 for contractual Building Division services. Second: Councilmember Quinn. Vote: 7 ayes; 0 nays. Motion carried. CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS No matters reported CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS Attorney Dahl briefed the Council on the administrative pause of the 2024 telecommunications tax due to a recent Colorado Supreme Court decision that invalidated a similar tax in Lakewood. He explained that the city has reverted to its pre-2024 version of the tax, which was not within the scope of the Supreme Court decision. The city is considering whether to place a ballot question on this tax in November. ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS Councilmember Okada reported on attending the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Board, noted the board now meets every other month, and highlighted community engagement and accessibility efforts at the chili cook-off at the Grange. Page 7 of 7 Councilmember Larson had no matters to report. Councilmember Wood shared her experience touring the Makerspace and encouraged community awareness of the program. Councilmember Quinn announced a District 3 update meeting at the Recreation Center and noted attendance at the Mayor’s Coffee event. Councilmember Snell recognized volunteers for the point-in-time homeless count, thanked community members for their engagement, and highlighted participation in office hours with staff. Councilmember Ohm discussed his work with the Jefferson County EDC Board, community unity initiatives and efforts to improve Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility at public facilities, including the Grange. Mayor Pro Tem Hultin reported on the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) board meeting, upcoming community safety events at the Recreation Center, and participation in the point-in-time homeless count. Mayor Stites shared updates from the Metro Mayors Caucus and Colorado Municipal League (CML) Mayors Summit and highlighted the "Gone Boarding" Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program at Wheat Ridge High School. He announced the next Coffee with the Mayor and acknowledged the passing of community leader Loretta Ditirro. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Stites adjourned the regular meeting at 8:11 p.m. _____________________________________ Rachel Hultin, Mayor Pro Tem ___________________________________________ Onorina Z. Maloney, Interim Senior Deputy City Clerk PROCLAMATION BLACK HISTORY MONTH FEBRUARY 2026 WHEREAS, February’s Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans, recognition of their central role in U.S. history, and a time to reflect on the continued struggle for racial justice and equality; and WHEREAS, experts say understanding Black history and learning more about systemic racism is essential for our country to grow as a nation; and WHEREAS, Carter G. Woodson, known as the “Father of Black History,” developed Black History Month. Woodson, whose parents were enslaved, was an author, historian, and the second Black American to earn a Ph.D. at Harvard University; and WHEREAS, Woodson chose February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass, a famed abolitionist who escaped from slavery, and President Abraham Lincoln, who formally abolished slavery; and WHEREAS, with a resolution passed in 2020, Wheat Ridge City Council confirmed that “racism and hate have no place in our city and there is much work to be done to stop pervasive, long-standing, and devastating racial injustices in our community”; and WHEREAS, in 2021, the City formed the Wheat Ridge Race and Equity Task Force to review City policies, services, ordinances, and community systems and identify policies and practices that contribute to discrimination; and WHEREAS, to continue this work, the City created the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee to advise the City Council on policies and practices to make Wheat Ridge a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED I, Mayor Korey Stites, and the Wheat Ridge City Council, do hereby proclaim February 2026 to be: BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN WITNESS WHEREOF, on this 9th day of February 2026. Onorina Maloney, Interim Sr. Deputy City Clerk Korey Stites, Mayor ITEM NUMBER: 1a DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION RESOLUTION NO. 07 TITLE: A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITIES OF WHEAT RIDGE AND EDGEWATER CONCERNING REGIONAL HOMELESS NAVIGATOR SERVICES ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☐BIDS/MOTIONS ☒RESOLUTIONS ☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: The City of Wheat Ridge is committed to regional homeless navigation efforts between Jefferson County and the cities therein to address the increasing number of individuals experiencing homelessness. A previous Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) included the cities of Wheat Ridge, Golden and Edgewater. Golden has since left the IGA and hired its own Homeless Navigator. This Intergovernmental Agreement, in partnership with the City of Edgewater, reflects this change as well as the corresponding payment obligation update between the two cities. PRIOR ACTION: August 17, 2020: City Council approved a regional IGA concerning homeless navigation efforts, including Wheat Ridge, Golden and Edgewater. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) divides the payment obligations by city population, with Wheat Ridge covering 87%, and Edgewater covering 13% respectively. Wheat Ridge pays the full cost of the positions and invoices Edgewater for their corresponding cost. The payment obligations include salary, benefits and operational expenses. In 2026, the amount budgeted for the Homeless Navigation Program in these categories totals $315,629. The City of Wheat Ridge’s obligation at 87% is $274,597, while Council Action Form – Homeless Navigation Program IGA February 9, 2026 Page 2 Edgewater’s obligation at 13% is $41,032. BACKGROUND: In 2019, 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 in individuals experiencing homelessness. A component of these efforts included 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 program and stabilization- related support, and collect and distribute information and resources to assist those experiencing homelessness. In 2020, the Homeless Navigator role with the City became a full-time shared role between the cities of Wheat Ridge, Golden and Edgewater. During this time, the need for homeless navigation services became more evident, and in response, Golden left the IGA in 2022 and hired its own dedicated Homeless Navigator. Additionally, in April 2022 Wheat Ridge City Council approved adding a Housing Navigator to the Homeless Navigation Program. Since 2022, the two Navigators have served both Wheat Ridge and Edgewater and have housed 185 individuals. With Golden leaving the IGA, the cost obligations had not been updated to reflect the change. This new IGA between Wheat Ridge and Edgewater now reflects Golden’s departure as well as the updated burden of cost between the two cities which will be divided on a pro-rata basis based upon their respective populations. For 2026, the division will be: Wheat Ridge – 87%; Edgewater: 13%. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommend approval of the resolution approving the IGA with Edgewater. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Resolution No. 07-2026, a resolution approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the Cities of Wheat Ridge and Edgewater concerning regional homeless navigator services.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 07-2026, a resolution approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the Cities of Wheat Ridge and Edgewater concerning regional homeless navigator services for the following reason(s).” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Jerry Dahl, City Attorney Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager Patrick Goff, City Manager Council Action Form – Homeless Navigation Program IGA February 9, 2026 Page 2 ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution No. 07-2026 2. Intergovernmental Agreement Concerning the Homeless Navigation Program ATTACHMENT 1 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 07 SERIES OF 2026 TITLE: A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITIES OF WHEAT RIDGE AND EDGEWATER CONCERNING REGIONAL HOMELESS NAVIGATOR SERVICES WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 14.12 of the Home Rule Charter, C.R.S. §§ 29-1- 201 and 203, and Colo. Const. Art. XIV, § 18(2)(a), the City of Wheat Ridge is authorized to enter into cooperative agreements with other governmental entities to provide any function, service or facility each is authorized to undertake; and WHEREAS, the increasing number of individuals experiencing homelessness continues to be a regional issue which affects the health, safety and welfare of the City and neighboring communities; and WHEREAS, The City has since 2020 partnered with the cities of Golden and Edgewater to coordinate homelessness navigation efforts by cooperating in the establishment of a Homeless Navigator position to assist and support homeless individuals within their common jurisdictional boundaries; and WHEREAS, the City’s support of the Homeless Navigator position continues to serve a public purpose and will promote the health, safety and welfare of the inhabitants of the City and its neighboring communities; and WHEREAS, with the departure of the City of Golden from this program, it is necessary to approve a revised intergovernmental agreement with the City of Edgewater to accomplish these goals. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO THAT: Section 1. The Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Wheat Ridge and the City of Edgewater, attached hereto as Exhibit A, is hereby approved, and the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized and directed to execute the same. Section 2. This resolution shall be effective upon adoption. DONE AND RESOLVED this 9th day of February 2026. ATTACHMENT 1 ______________________________ Korey Stites, Mayor [SEAL] ATTEST: __________________________________________ Onorina Maloney, Interim Deputy City Clerk ATTACHMENT 1 EXHIBIT A INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT CONCERNING REGIONAL HOMELESS NAVIGATOR SERVICES TO SUPPORT AND ASSIST THOSE EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS 1 ATTACHMENT 2 INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITIES OF WHEAT RIDGE AND EDGEWATER CONCERNING REGIONAL HOMELESS NAVIGATOR SERVICES 1.0 PARTIES. This Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Cities of Wheat Ridge and Edgewater Concerning Regional Homeless Navigator Services (this “Agreement”), effective as of January 1, 2026 (“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 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. In 2020, the Parties determined it was in their best interests 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. Together with the city of Golden, the Parties entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement in 2020 to establish a Regional Homeless Navigator program (the “2020 IGA”) that has operated since that time in Wheat Ridge and Edgewater, with Golden subsequently withdrawing. 2.5. The 2020 IGA expired at the end of 2025, and Edgewater and Wheat Ridge wish to continue the Regional Homeless Navigator program between the two of them on essentially the same terms as the 2020 IGA. 2.6. 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. 2 ATTACHMENT 2 3.0 TERM AND RENEWAL. 3.1. This Agreement will remain in effect through December 31, 2026 (“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 ATTACHMENT 2 4.1.6 Establish and maintaining collaborative partnerships with internal and external partners and resources to successfully achieve goals and objectives related to homelessness. 4.2. Edgewater will 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 jurisdiction 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 their 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. 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, 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. Edgewater 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 their work duties, nor shall Edgewater 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. 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 ATTACHMENT 2 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: 33,174 B. Edgewater 4,924 6.2 Accordingly, the Parties agree that for the period beginning from the Effective Date through December 31, 2026, the total employment or engagement costs incurred by Wheat Ridge for its employment or engagement of the Homeless Navigator shall be divided between the Parties as follows: 5 ATTACHMENT 2 A. Wheat Ridge: 87% B. Edgewater 13% 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 actual costs for taxes, insurance, benefits, overhead and other indirect costs of employment or engagement. Overhead and other indirect costs will not exceed $10,000 annually without the prior written approval of all Parties. 6.4 Edgewater shall pay to Wheat Ridge, annually after services have been rendered hereunder and within thirty (30) days after written invoice therefore, all sums due 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 Edgewater. Upon such termination, Edgewater shall 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. Edgewater may withdraw from and terminate its participation in this AGREEMENT at any time and for any reason by providing 60 days written notice to Wheat Ridge and shall pay to Wheat Ridge the employment or engagement costs of the Homeless Navigator incurred by Wheat Ridge based upon the Edgewater’s pro-rata participation percentage, as determined by Section 6.1, through the date of termination. 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 6 ATTACHMENT 2 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 waving any protections afforded by the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act. 9.4 BINDING EFFECT. This AGREEMENT shall ensure 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 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 7 ATTACHMENT 2 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 of care which did not previously exist with respect to any person not a party to this AGREEMENT. [SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW] 8 ATTACHMENT 2 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE a Colorado municipal corporation By: Korey Stites, Mayor ATTEST: ____________________________________ Onorina Maloney, Interim Deputy City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: _____________________ Gerald Dahl, City Attorney 9 ATTACHMENT 2 CITY OF EDGEWATER, a Colorado municipal corporation ________________________________ Steve Conklin, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________________ Lenore Pedroza, MMC, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: ___________________________________ Carmen Beery, City Attorney ITEM NUMBER: 1b DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION RESOLUTION 08-2026 TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 GENERAL FUND BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $423,775 FOR AUTOMATED VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION SERVICES ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☐BIDS/MOTIONS ☒RESOLUTIONS ☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: During the October 28, 2024, City Council Meeting, City Council approved the service agreement with Altumint, Incorporated to provide automated vehicle identification services (AVIS). The fee structure guarantees that the City never incurs direct costs to Altumint, however, for financial auditing purposes, the City must capture the total expense to implement the program in the budget. This budget supplemental of $423,775 is offset by total revenues of $499,586. PRIOR ACTION: October 28, 2024: City Council approved the service agreement between the City and Altumint, Incorporated to provide automated vehicle identification services. An administrative amendment to the fee schedule was executed in July 2025, which updated the violation processing fee from $12 per registration lookup to $15. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The total cost of the AVIS program to the City in 2025 was $423,775. The costs include both the $15 violation processing fee per registration look-up, as well as a monthly paydown for the 30-day warning period in which Altumint began processing registrations for violations but citations were not issued. Since April 2025, a total of 11,166 citations have been paid, totaling $499,586. The net revenue of this program in 2025 is $75,811. CAF – Budget Supplemental for Automated Vehicle Identification Services February 9, 2026 Page 2 The City did not budget the cost in 2025 due to the timing of the initial agreement and the uncertainty of when the program would become active. However, in 2026, the City budgeted $690,000 for total AVIS program costs. BACKGROUND: Traffic issues, primarily excessive speeds and red-light violations are a continual complaint from the residents of Wheat Ridge. These complaints reflect a variety of concerns for the many motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians that utilize the City’s roadways for day-to-day mobility, entertainment, and enjoyment purposes. Speeding remains the top complaint the Wheat Ridge Police Department (WRPD) receives, and through the City’s Let’s Talk Engagement Program, “Traffic and Speeding” remains a prominent topic of discussion in most neighborhoods across the city. In response to these complaints and concerns, the WRPD worked with Altumint to provide AVIS and build a program that would meet the needs of the City. In April 2025, the WRPD activated two automated speed cameras. One is located on W. 32nd Ave. right outside Wheat Ridge High School and another is located on W. 44th Ave. and Field St. near Anderson Park. Each AVIS infraction at these locations results in a $40 fine, with an $80 fine in a school zone. To verify each infraction, Altumint completes a registration look-up, matching the license plate to the registered vehicle. Each civil infraction is then approved by a member of the WRPD. The goal of the program is to reduce speed in the city, and the data associated with those deployed AVIS systems suggests that the City could expect a reduction in speed violations of between 30% to 60%, creating substantially safer roadways. To date, the City has seen a 30% reduction in speed violations where AVIS is enforced. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommend approval of the budget supplemental of $423,775 for automated vehicle services. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Resolution 08-2026, a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $423,775 for automated vehicle identification services.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution 08-2026, a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $423,775 for automated vehicle identification services CAF – Budget Supplemental for Automated Vehicle Identification Services February 9, 2026 Page 3 for the following reason(s).” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Patrick Goff, City Manager Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager Eric Kellogg, Police Division Chief Mark Colvin, Finance Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution 08-2025 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 08 SERIES OF 2026 TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 GENERAL FUND BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $423,775 FOR AUTOMATED VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION SERVICES WHEREAS, traffic issues, primarily excessive speeds and red-light violations are recurrent complaints and concerns from the residents of Wheat Ridge; and WHEREAS, in response to these complaints and concerns, and to create safer roadways for the citizens of Wheat Ridge, Wheat Ridge Police Department worked with Altumint, Incorporated to provide automated vehicle identification services (AVIS) and build a program that would meet the needs of the City; and WHEREAS, on October 28, 2024, the City Council approved a service agreement with Altumint, Incorporated to provide AVIS to the City; and WHEREAS, while the City does not incur direct out of pocket costs for this program, the City is required to recognize the full cost of implementing the AVIS program within the adopted budget; and WHEREAS, the total cost of the AVIS program to the City during Fiscal Year 2025 was $423,775, which includes violation processing fees and a monthly paydown for initial implementation costs; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that amending the Fiscal Year 2025 General Fund Budget to reflect this supplemental appropriation is necessary and appropriate to ensure accurate financial reporting and transparency. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO THAT: Section 1. A supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of $423,775 is hereby approved from General Fund undesignated reserves to account 100-70704-211. ATTACHMENT 1 DONE AND RESOLVED this 9th day of February 2026 [SEAL] ATTEST: Onorina Maloney, Interim Deputy City Clerk Korey Stites, Mayor ITEM NUMBER: 1c DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION RESOLUTION 09-2026 TITLE: A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR AN APPLICATION TO THE COLORADO ENERGY OFFICE LOCAL IMPACT ACCELERATOR GRANT ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☐BIDS/MOTIONS ☒RESOLUTIONS ☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: The City is applying for grant funding from the Colorado Energy Office for the Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant. The grant would support a zoning code audit, housing- supportive code amendments, and financial incentives for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), multi-unit, and affordable housing. A resolution and letter of support from the City Council are required to apply for this grant program. PRIOR ACTION: Council has taken no prior action on this issue, however the City’s ongoing work to comply with several housing-related state laws positions Wheat Ridge to be eligible for this funding opportunity. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The City has been invited to apply for up to $5 million in grant funding. The grant program requires a 5% local cash match of up to $250,000, up to half of which can be in-kind based on City staff hours. There are available funds in the Housing Fund and Planning Division Professional Services to fulfill the local match. If awarded the grant, staff will prepare a supplemental budget request to the City Council to account for the grant funds in the 2026 budget. BACKGROUND: The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) announced the Local Implementation, Mitigation, and Policy Action (IMPACT) Accelerator grant program in 2025 to support the implementation of policies and projects that foster community resilience and reduce Council Action Form – Resolution Supporting CEO Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant February 9, 2026 Page 2 emissions related to buildings, land use, transportation, and waste. The City selected to pursue two policies and three projects from the grant program menu: • Policy: Remove regulatory barriers to the development of attached homes in residential areas (e.g. allow middle housing types). • Policy: Remove regulatory barriers to multi-family housing and mixed-use development near transit and commercial areas. • Project: Establish permitting and development fee reductions for ADUs and attached homes. • Project: Provide permitting and development fee reductions or waivers for multi- family housing and mixed-use development near transit and in commercial areas. • Project: Fund the soft costs for deed-restricted multi-family and mixed-use development near transit and in commercial areas. The selected policies and projects align with recommendations from three recently adopted City plans, including the Affordable Housing Strategy and Action Plan (2023), the Sustainability Action Plan (2024), and the City Plan (2025). These plans identify the need to modernize the City’s zoning framework to increase housing variety, support mixed-income communities, promote development near services and transit, and ensure new development is compatible with existing neighborhoods. The grant will support a consultant to evaluate the City’s zoning code and key actions: • Create a new residential zone district (R-4) to allow attached and multi-unit housing and to reduce reliance on planned development zoning, and • Remove zoning barriers near main street and commercial corridors, and • Evaluate lot size and width standards to enable appropriate infill. In addition to policy-focused work, the grant provides funding for projects to help offset costs and remove barriers to housing development. Grant funds can directly offset permit and development fees for ADUs, multi-family, and mixed-use developments, and can reimburse soft costs for deed-restricted affordable housing projects. The grant program provides a significant opportunity to implement recently adopted plans, expand housing options, advance sustainability goals, and reduce financial barriers to housing development. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommend approval of the resolution supporting the City’s CEO grant application. Council’s approval will allow the City to submit the grant application. Council Action Form – Resolution Supporting CEO Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant February 9, 2026 Page 3 RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Resolution No. 09-2026, a resolution of support for an application to the Colorado Energy Office Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant.” Or, “I move to table indefinitely Resolution No. 09-2026, a resolution of support for an application to the Colorado Energy Office Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant for the following reason(s)….” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Shannon Terrell, Senior Housing Planner Mary Hester, Sustainability Coordinator Jana Easley, Planning Manager Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution No. 09-2026 2. Council Letter of Support ATTACHMENT 1 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO RESOLUTION NO. 09 SERIES OF 2026 TITLE: A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR AN APPLICATION TO THE COLORADO ENERGY OFFICE LOCAL IMPACT ACCELERATOR GRANT PROGRAM WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado (the “City”) adopted the Affordable Housing Strategy and Action Plan in 2023, the Sustainability Action Plan in 2024, and the City Plan in 2025 (collectively “Adopted Plans”); and WHEREAS, these Adopted Plans identify the need to update the city’s zoning code to allow more housing options and to reduce barriers to development; and WHEREAS, the Local Implementation, Mitigation, and Policy Action (IMPACT) Accelerator Grant Program is a grant funding opportunity; and WHEREAS, the City acknowledges the required five (5) percent local match and desires to apply for this grant program to implement recently Adopted Plans; and WHEREAS, the City Council supports a funding application to the Colorado Energy Office Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant Program to conduct a zoning code audit, housing- supportive code amendments, and financial incentives for housing development. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO THAT: Section 1. The Mayor or the City Manager of the City or any other member of the City Council and all appropriate City officers are hereby authorized and directed to execute and deliver and the City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to attest and deliver such other agreements and certificates and to take such other actions as may be necessary or convenient to carry out and give effect to the Assignment and this Resolution. Nothing contained in this Resolution shall constitute a debt, indebtedness, or multiple- fiscal year direct or indirect debt or other financial obligation of the City within the meaning of the Constitution or statutes of the State or the home rule charter of any political subdivision thereof, nor give rise to a pecuniary liability of the City or a charge against its general credit or taxing powers. ATTACHMENT 1 Section 2. If any section, paragraph, clause, or provision of this Resolution shall for any reason be held to be invalid or unenforceable, the invalidity or unenforceability of any such section, paragraph, clause, or provision shall not affect any of the remaining provisions of this Resolution. Section 3. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect upon its passage and approval. DONE AND RESOLVED this 9th day of February 2026. [SEAL] ATTEST: ______________________________________ Onorina Z. Maloney, Interim Deputy City Clerk _______________________________________ Korey Stites, Mayor ATTACHMENT 2 February 9, 2026 Colorado Energy Office 1600 Broadway, Suite 1960 Denver, CO 80202 RE: Local IMPACT Accelerator Application Letter of Support from City Council To Whom It May Concern: My name is Korey Stites, and I am the Mayor for the City of Wheat Ridge. I am writing to express our commitment to applying for the Local IMPACT Accelerator Program to advance the housing-related policies and projects outlined in our application. As demonstrated in the attached resolution, the Wheat Ridge City Council supports submission of this application and the proposed scope of work, which includes a zoning code audit, housing-supportive code amendments, and financial incentive programs for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), multi-unit housing, and affordable housing development. These efforts directly advance the city’s adopted policy goals and planning priorities from recently adopted city-wide plans, including the Affordable Housing Strategy, Sustainability Plan, and the City Plan. These plans were developed through a robust community engagement process, providing a strong foundation of public support for the policies and projects proposed in this application. Council further supports the local 5% match of up to $250,000, up to half of which can be in- kind based on city staff hours. There are available funds in the Housing Fund (Fund 45) and Planning Division Professional Services (100-70750-121) to fulfill the local match, which will be allocated by the contract date. If awarded the grant, a budget supplemental request through City Council will be done to account for the grant funds in the 2026 budget. The city has committed staff capacity to successfully implement this work, including a dedicated full-time Senior Housing Planner. Council has demonstrated consistent support for housing-related efforts and implementation of the adopted plans. Over the past five years, Council has adopted ADU regulations, waived parkland dedication fees for ADUs and affordable housing projects, eliminated minimum parking requirements for multi-unit residential development, created a new housing staff position, and dedicated short-term rental revenue to the Housing Fund. Council has also supported the State of Colorado’s recent housing legislation and has approved all of staff-recommended code updates related to these laws. Sincerely, Korey Stites Mayor, City of Wheat Ridge ITEM NUMBER: 2 DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION COUNCIL BILL NO. 02-2026 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING VEHICLE MUFFLER REQUIREMENTS ☒PUBLIC HEARING ☐BIDS/MOTIONS ☐RESOLUTIONS ☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☒ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: Noise produced by motor vehicles with noncompliant, altered, or missing mufflers is injurious to the public health and welfare. This ordinance adopts muffler-specific Code requirements to better address vehicular exhaust noise and its control. BACKGROUND: The current City Code does not directly address noise produced by motor vehicles, instead, noise is addressed generally in Chapter 16 as a nuisance, but that Chapter does not lend itself to effective enforcement of vehicle noise. The attached ordinance is specific in defining what compliant mufflers are, requiring they be present, prohibiting improper modification and sale of mufflers and detailing the means for enforcement by the Police Department and the Municipal Court. PRIOR ACTION: The City has previously adopted Article V of Chapter 13 of the Code of Laws concerning vehicle public nuisances, which does not address muffler noise. Council discussed muffler enforcement in study session on September 15, 2025, and directed this ordinance be prepared. A motion was made by Councilmember Larson and seconded by Councilmember Okada on first reading on January 26, 2026 and was approved by a vote of 7 to 0. Council Action Form – Vehicle Muffler Requirements February 9, 2026 Page 2 FINANCIAL IMPACT: Negligible; potential modest increase in revenue from municipal court fines for conviction of violations. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommend approval of this ordinance. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 02-2026, an ordinance amending Chapter 13 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning vehicle muffler requirements, order it published, and that it take effect immediately upon adoption and signature by the Mayor.” Or, “I move to table indefinitely Council Bill No. 02-2026, an ordinance amending Chapter 13 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning vehicle muffler requirements, for the following reasons…” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Gerald Dahl, City Attorney Christopher Murtha, Chief of Police Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill No. 02-2026 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER LARSON Council Bill No. 02 Ordinance No. 1835 Series 2026 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING VEHICLE MUFFLER REQUIREMENTS WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge is a home rule municipality having all powers conferred by Article XX of the Colorado Constitution; and WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority and C.R.S. § 31-23-101, the City, acting through its City Council (the “Council”), is authorized to adopt ordinances for the protection of the public health, safety or welfare; and WHEREAS, through the exercise of this authority, the City Council has previously adopted Article V of Chapter 13 of the Code of Laws concerning vehicle emissions; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that noise produced by motor vehicles with noncompliant, altered, or missing mufflers is injurious to the public health; and WHEREAS, the Council further finds that it is necessary to adopt this ordinance to ensure that proper and compliant vehicle mufflers are used within the City. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO: Section 1. Article V of Chapter 13 of the Code of Laws is hereby retitled to read: Emissions and vehicle noise. Section 2. Section 13-21 of the Code, concerning definitions, is amended by the addition of the following terms, in their appropriate alphabetical order: • Altered muffler means and includes any muffler which has been altered or replaced to result in a condition which is in any respect, different or substandard to the specifications of the original factory-installed muffler for the particular motor vehicle involved. • Compliant muffler means and includes the original factory-installed muffler on a motor vehicle, or a replacement muffler which conforms in all respects to the specifications of the original factory-installed muffler and section 13-28 of this Code. ATTACHMENT 1 • Cutout, bypass, or similar device means any device, including but not limited to Hollywood pipes, that allow exhaust gases to bypass the muffler. • Muffler means any apparatus consisting of a series of chambers or other mechanical devise for the purpose of receiving exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine which is designed for the purpose of breaking up the sound tones and the diffusion of smoke and flame emitting therefrom. • Unreasonable noise shall mean any noise which because of its loudness and frequency, while taking into consideration its location and the nature of the typical urban environment, unreasonably disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of reasonable persons of ordinary sensitivity or causes damage to any property or business. Section 3. Article V Chapter 13 is amended by the addition of a new section 13-28, to read as follows: Sec. 13-28 Mufflers prevention of noise. (a) Muffler required. No person shall operate a motor vehicle on public streets or highways within the city without a compliant muffler specific to the vehicle type. It is a violation of this section for any person to operate a motor vehicle within the city unless it is equipped with a muffler in good working order and in constant operation to prevent any unreasonable noise, or with an altered muffler, cutout, bypass, or similar device. (b) Muffler modification and sale prohibited. No person shall sell, install, or use a muffler or exhaust system that has been modified in a manner that will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the motor of such vehicle above that emitted by the original muffler. (c) Enforcement. Citation for violations of this section 13-28 shall be written into the Wheat Ridge Municipal Court. In acting to stop a motorist and in issuing a citation under this section, the law enforcement officer may rely upon their professional judgment, training and experience in determining that the vehicle in question was being operated at a volume greater than normal traffic or similar noise-compliant vehicles, and evidence of the same is admissible. The defendant in each case shall be required to attend at least an initial court appearance on the charge, which appearance may be by video or other virtual means in the discretion of the court. Upon a guilty finding for the violation of this Code section, the municipal court judge shall impose a fine no less than the following amounts: • First violation: $200. • Second violation: $300. • Third and subsequent violations within 12 months: $600. (d) Repair. The municipal judge is authorized in their discretion in addition to or in lieu of the fine set forth above, to require that as a condition of sentence the defendant provide evidence of repair of the subject vehicle to a condition in compliance with this section. If so ordered, such evidence to be provided to the court within 30 days of the date of conviction. Section 4. Severability: Conflicting ordinances repealed. If any section, subsection or clause of this Ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed. Section 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately upon adoption at second reading and signature by the Mayor, as permitted by Section 5.11 of the Charter. INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 7 to 0 on this 26TH day of January 2026, ordered published in full on the City’s website as provided by the Home Rule Charter, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for February 9, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this 9th day of February 2026. SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2026. ATTEST: Korey Stites, Mayor Onorina Maloney, Interim Senior Deputy City Clerk Approved as to Form: Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication: January 27, 2026 Second Publication: February 10, 2026 Effective Date: February 9, 2026 Published: Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us ITEM NUMBER: 3 DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION COUNCIL BILL NO. 03-2026 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ARTICLE IV OF CHAPTER 11 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING AMUSEMENT ARCADES AND AMUSEMENT CENTERS ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☐BIDS/MOTIONS ☐RESOLUTIONS ☒ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: This ordinance repeals the licensing procedures for amusement arcades. It has become apparent that this section of the Code of Laws is outdated and no longer necessary for the protection of the public health, safety or welfare of the residents of Wheat Ridge. PRIOR ACTION: In 1977, the amusement arcade ordinance was adopted by City Council for the main purpose of ensuring that the amusement devices were not used for gambling purposes and regulating same. At the January 5, 2026 study session, the Council directed staff to prepare an ordinance repealing the licensing requirement. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The City currently receives approximately $3,400 annually in amusement device license fees, which will be lost with the passage of this ordinance. BACKGROUND: The amusement arcade licensing ordinance went into effect in 1977 when there were several amusement arcades in Wheat Ridge and surrounding cities which caused a number of calls for police department service due to accusations of the devices being used for gambling, crowds gathering on public sidewalks outside of the arcades, and liquor being consumed off the licensed premises. Council Action Form – Amusement Arcades and Centers February 9, 2026 Page 2 Since 1977, and with the proliferation of home gaming devices, the number of these types of amusement arcades have dwindled. Most amusement arcades are now more “family-oriented” and provide for entertainment, amusement, or a test of skill. Currently, there are three types of amusement categories, which make up eight in total. The total number of licensed machines in total is between 50-60 and continues to reduce over time. • Amusement Arcades (10 or more machines): 1 • Amusement Centers (four to nine machines): 3 • Amusement Devices (one to three machines): 4 For Amusement Arcades and Centers, they are located within a business that already has a liquor license, such as a bowling alley, bar or restaurant. For Amusement Devices, they are typically just one machine located in an establishment like a grocery store. At this time, state gambling laws, liquor laws and local laws provide the necessary tools to handle any potential unlawful acts. Therefore, the ordinance related to amusement centers, arcades and devices is no longer necessary. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommend approval of the ordinance. RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 03-2026, an ordinance repealing Article IV of Chapter 11 of the of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning amusement arcades and amusement centers, order it published and public hearing set for February 23, 2026 in City Council Chambers, and if adopted on second reading to take effect 15 days after final publication as required by the charter.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 03-2025, an ordinance repealing Article IV of Chapter 11 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning amusement arcades and amusement centers for the following reason(s).” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Gerald Dahl, City Attorney Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill No. 03-2025 2. Current version of Amusement Arcade Code CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER Council Bill No. 03 Ordinance No. 1836 Series 2026 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ARTICLE IV OF CHAPTER 11 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING AMUSEMENT ARCADES AND AMUSEMENT CENTERS WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado is a Colorado home rule municipality, duly organized and existing pursuant to Section 6 of Article XX of the Colorado Constitution; and WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority and C.R.S. § 31-23-101, the City, acting through its City Council (the “Council”), is authorized to adopt ordinances for the protection of the public health, safety or welfare; and WHEREAS, in the exercise of this authority the City council has previously adopted Article IV of Chapter 11 of the Code of Laws, providing for the licensing and regulation of amusement arcades and amusement centers; and WHEREAS, the Council finds it is no longer necessary to regulate such businesses in the manner set forth in Article IV, Chapter 11; the City’s general land use, zoning and nuisance regulations, and state law being sufficient for the purpose. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO: Section 1. Article IV of Chapter 11 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning amusement arcades and amusement centers, is hereby repealed in its entirety, and said Article IV retained as “reserved” for future use. Section 2. Severability, Conflicting Ordinances Repealed. If any section, subsection or clause of this Ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance are hereby repealed. Section 3. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter. ATTACHMENT 1 INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of ___ to ___ on this 9th day of February 2026, ordered published in full on the City’s website as provided by the Home Rule Charter, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for February 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this 23rd day of February 2026. SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2025. ATTEST: Onorina Maloney, Interim Senior Deputy City Clerk Korey Stites, Mayor Approved as to Form: Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication: February 10, 2026 Second Publication: February 24, 2026 Effective Date: March 11, 2026 Published: Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us ATTACHMENT 2 ITEM NUMBER: 4 DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION COUNCIL BILL NO. 04-2026 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING WRITE IN CANDIDATE AFFIDAVITS ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☐BIDS/MOTIONS ☐RESOLUTIONS ☒ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: This ordinance requires that write-in candidates for any elective office must file an affidavit of intent with the City Clerk prior to 64 days before the election. PRIOR ACTION: City Council was briefed on this item by the City Attorney at the February 2nd study session. Consensus was reached by council to direct the City Attorney to bring forward an ordinance for consideration. FINANCIAL IMPACT: None BACKGROUND: The Colorado election statutes provide that municipalities may govern the manner of receiving write-in candidates for elective office. Many municipalities commonly require that an affidavit of intent to run for an elective office must be filed by a potential write-in candidate prior to 64 days before the election, to allow the election officials to prepare appropriate election materials, and to know whether votes for such a write-in candidate are to be counted. This ordinance mirrors standard language enacted by municipalities to accomplish this. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommend approval of this Ordinance Council Action Form – Write in Candidate Affidavits February 9, 2026 Page 2 RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to approve Council Bill No. 04-2026, an ordinance amending Chapter 7 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning write in candidate affidavits, order it published, public hearing set for Monday February 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., as a virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, and that it takes effect fifteen (15) days after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.” Or, “I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 04-2026, an ordinance amending Chapter 7 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning write in candidate affidavits for the following reason(s).” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Gerald Dahl, City Attorney Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Council Bill No. 04-2026 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER Council Bill No. 04 Ordinance No. 1837 Series 2026 TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING WRITE IN CANDIDATE AFFIDAVITS WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge (the “City”) is a home rule municipality having all powers conferred by Article XX of the Colorado Constitution; and WHEREAS, pursuant to its home rule authority and C.R.S. § 31-23-101, the City, acting through its City Council (the “Council”), is authorized to adopt ordinances for the protection of the public health, safety or welfare; and WHEREAS, in the exercise of this authority, the City Council has previously adopted Chapter 7 of the Code of Laws, governing elections; and WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority granted by CRS 31-10-306, the Council wishes to provide a procedure governing write-in candidate affidavits of intent. NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO: Section 1. Chapter 7 of the Code of Laws is hereby amended by the adoption of a new section 7-6, to read as follows: Sec. 7-6 Write-in candidate affidavit. NO WRITE-IN VOTE FOR ANY ELECTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY SHALL BE COUNTED UNLESS AN AFFIDAVIT OF INTENT HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK BY THE PERSON WHOSE NAME IS WRITTEN IN PRIOR TO SIXTY- FOUR (64) DAYS BEFORE THE DAY OF THE ELECTION, INDICATING THAT SUCH PERSON DESIRES THE OFFICE AND IS QUALIFIED TO ASSUME THE DUTIES OF THE OFFICE IF ELECTED. Section 2. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after final publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter. INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of ___ to ___ on this 9th day of February 2026, ordered published in full on the City’s website as provided by the Home Rule Charter, and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for February 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. ATTACHMENT 1 READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of ___ to ___, this 23rd day of February 2026. SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2026. _________________________________ Korey Stites, Mayor ATTEST: Onorina Maloney, Interim Sr. Deputy City Clerk Approved as to Form: _________________________________ Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney First Publication: February 10, 2026 Second Publication: February 24, 2026 Effective Date: March 11, 2026 Published: Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us ITEM NUMBER: 5 DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION MOTION TITLE: MOTION TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO FILL THE CITY CLERK VACANCY, TERM ENDING NOVEMBER 8, 2027 ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☒BIDS/MOTIONS ☐RESOLUTIONS ☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: City Clerk Kirkpatrick tragically passed in February of 2025. An initiative was added to the ballot at the November 4, 2025, election to have both the City Clerk and City Treasurer positions appointed following the completion of the term. This ballot initiative failed, and therefore it is necessary to appoint a City Clerk to finish out the term ending in November of 2027. Wheat Ridge City Charter Section 3.11 (c) states that “If a vacancy occurs in the office of the City Clerk or City Treasurer, no special election shall be called but such vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the council for the remainder of the term”. After advertising the vacancy, one qualified application was received from an interested candidate for the vacant seat. An interview was conducted by City Council at the Study Session on February 2 and an appointment will be considered at the regular meeting on February 9. PRIOR ACTION: November 15, 2025: City Council was briefed on the vacancy and appointment process at the study session. February 2, 2026: An interview was conducted by City Council at the study session FINANCIAL IMPACT: The annual salary for the City Clerk is $29,000. Council Action Form – City Clerk Appointment February 9, 2026 Page 2 BACKGROUND: The City Clerk is an elected position in the City of Wheat Ridge and is elected by the greatest number of votes cast for that office by the electors of the City of Wheat Ridge at the relevant general municipal elections and has the same qualifications as a member of the city council. At the time of the election, the applicant must be a registered elector, as defined by Colorado Revised Statutes, and must be a resident of Wheat Ridge for a period of at least twelve (12) consecutive months immediately preceding the date of the election. The City Clerk vacancy was advertised on January 12, 2026. One application was received by the due date of 5:00 p.m. on January 23, 2026. The following individual submitted an application. This applicant was determined to be eligible to hold the office of City Clerk. 1. Janeece Hoppe The qualified candidate provided a brief presentation during an interview process to City Council during the February 2, 2026, study session. RECOMMENDATIONS: None RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to appoint ___________________ as City Clerk, term to expire November 8, 2027.” Or, “I move to postpone appointment of _____________________ as City Clerk, term to expire November 8, 2027 for the following reasons.” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Rhiannon Curry, Executive Assistant Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. Candidate Application Packet ATTACHMENT 1 ITEM NUMBER: 6 DATE: February 9, 2026 REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION MOTION A MOTION AD0PTING THE 2026 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA ☐PUBLIC HEARING ☒BIDS/MOTIONS ☐RESOLUTIONS ☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING ☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO ISSUE: The Legislative Committee has recommended that the City Council consider the adoption of the 2026 Legislative Agenda. PRIOR ACTION: September 16, 2024: City Council reached consensus to implement a Legislative Advocacy Program. February 10, 2025: City Council adopted the 2025 Legislative Agenda January 5, 2026: City Council provided consensus to move forward with the 2026 Legislative Agenda FINANCIAL IMPACT: None BACKGROUND: Formed in late 2024, the City’s four-part legislative advocacy program includes a legislative agenda, a Legislative Committee, lobbying efforts, and advocacy position resolutions. The legislative agenda outlines the City’s positions on legislation it supports or opposes. Using the agenda and additional criteria, the Legislative Committee, a City Council subcommittee consisting of Councilors Hultin, Larson, and Okada, identifies three to five priority bills from roughly 50–100 measures that may impact the City for potential advocacy position resolutions. These resolutions formally state the City’s position on specific legislation. Once a bill is selected, staff begin lobbying immediately while the resolution advances through the Council adoption process. Lobbying efforts may include letters of support, Council Action Form – Adopting the 2026 Legislative Agenda February 9, 2026 Page 2 testimony, and direct engagement with elected officials. The 2026 Legislative Session, running from January through May, will be the second session during which the Legislative Committee is active. In collaboration with all City departments and the City’s Legislative Committee, staff created a draft Legislative Agenda that reflects the City’s adopted plans and community priorities (Attachment 1). The draft agenda is organized into the following key focus areas: • Administrative Services • Affordable Housing • Community Development • Economic Development • Homelessness • Governance & Home Rule • Infrastructure & Transportation • Parks and Recreation • Public Safety • Special Districts & Utilities • Sustainability Each focus area includes an overview followed by a ‘Proposed Legislation’ section highlighting bills that enhance Wheat Ridge residents’ quality of life. Additionally, each focus area features an ‘Opposed Legislation’ section outlining policies that could negatively impact the community. Staff also analyzed the content and identified the following key themes that are consistently reflected throughout the document: Key Themes Throughout the Legislative Agenda A. Community Centered Solutions Requesting financial support, technical assistance, and the flexibility to implement locally tailored approaches to meeting desired state outcomes. Set the destination but allow us to chart the course. B. Equity & Accessibility Encouraging the State to partner with municipalities committed to addressing equity and accessibility issues. Council Action Form – Adopting the 2026 Legislative Agenda February 9, 2026 Page 3 C. Statewide Collaboration Expressing a strong desire to partner and collaborate with the State, utilities, special districts, and regional organizations to improve quality of life. D. Local Control Advocating for local control over health, safety, welfare related items such as policing, land-use, development, planning, and permit review. E. Oppose Mandates Requesting state funding for mandates imposed on local governments. If adopted, the Legislative Agenda will guide the City’s legislative initiatives throughout the 2026 Legislative Session and beyond. RECOMMENDATIONS: Adopt the 2026 Legislative Agenda RECOMMENDED MOTION: “I move to adopt the 2026 Legislative Agenda” Or, “I move to not adopt the 2026 Legislative Agenda for the following reason(s).” REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY: Cole Haselip, Senior Management Analyst Amanda Harrison, Communications and Engagement Manager Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager Patrick Goff, City Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1. 2026 Legislative Agenda This document is the 2026 Legislative Agenda for the City of Wheat Ridge and is intended to guide staff and the City Council in lobbying for or against legislative items. 2026 Legislative Agenda ATTACHMENT 1 01 Introduction The Wheat Ridge Legislative Agenda 02 Administrative Services The City’s Internal Services 04 Community Development Shaping the City’s physical growth 06 Homelessness Comprehensive homeless navigation 08 Infrastructure & Transportation Maintaining and enhancing infrastructure 10 Public Safety Resident safety 12 Special Districts & Utilities Essential Partners 03 Affordable Housing Access to affordable housing 05 Economic Development Creating vibrant economic ecosystems 07 Governance & Home Rule Governance of local matters 09 Parks and Recreation Parks and recreation department 11 Sustainability Comprehensive sustainability programTA B L E O F C O N T E N T S Introduction The Wheat Ridge Legislative Agenda guides the City’s advocacy on state-level policy decisions that could significantly impact our community. Developed in collaboration with the City’s Legislative Committee, City Council, and City staff, this agenda establishes clear positions on anticipated legislation for the 2026 Colorado Legislative Session. It serves as both a framework for City officials’ advocacy efforts and a resource for state legislators considering policies affecting Wheat Ridge. Our advocacy positions emerge from extensive community engagement and align with City Council’s adopted plans. This local perspective is essential, as statewide policies often overlook the unique needs of individual communities. Overall, the City’s advocacy positions can be summarized into the following themes: A.Community Centered Solutions: Requesting financial support, technical assistance, and flexibility to implement locally tailored approaches to meeting desired state outcomes. Set the destination but allow us to chart the course. B.Equity & Accessibility: Encouraging the State to partner with municipalities committed to addressing equity and accessibility issues. C.Statewide Collaboration: Expressing a strong desire to partner and collaborate with the State, utilities, special districts, and regional organizations to improve quality of life. D.Local Control: Advocating for local control over health, safety, welfare related items such as policing, land-use, development, planning, and permit review. E.Oppose Mandates: Requesting state funding for mandates imposed on local governments. This document is organized around key focus areas, beginning with an overview and followed by a Proposed Legislation section that highlights bills intended to enhance the quality of life for Wheat Ridge residents. Each focus area also includes an Opposed Legislation section identifying policies that could negatively impact our community. www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |1 Administrative Services The City’s Administrative Services Department serves as the “basecamp” for the entire organization, providing critical support through its divisions: the City Clerk’s Office, Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology (IT), Risk Management, and Procurement. Wheat Ridge supports legislation that funds the modernization of municipal operations and adoption of emerging technologies. We advocate for measures that reduce municipal risk and liability, including funding to address these challenges. Additionally, we support efforts to enhance taxing and licensing processes. The City also seeks improved transparency and functionality within the State’s SUTS (Sales and Use Tax System) to ensure seamless revenue transfers and tax administration. These priorities strengthen municipal operations and benefit governments and taxpayers alike. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes state mandates that limit local authority over tax collection, licensing, or enforcement. We also oppose laws that interfere with the City’s procurement, personnel management, or IT practices, including rigid requirements for web accessibility, public meeting accessibility, and technology functions that fail to account for local needs. Additionally, we reject legislation that increases municipal liability or weakens governmental immunity. | www.ci.wheatridge.co.us2 Affordable Housing Wheat Ridge is committed to increasing access to affordable housing. The City manages a program that attracts, funds, and collaborates with partners to develop a variety of affordable housing options. Proposed Legislation In alignment with its Affordable Housing Strategy, Wheat Ridge calls on the state to prioritize legislation addressing critical housing needs for low- and moderate-income households, particularly those earning less than $75,000 annually or 80% of the area median income (AMI). State policies providing financial subsidies and tax incentives for nonprofit and private developers focused on affordable housing are essential for bridging affordability gaps and ensuring project viability. Wheat Ridge supports initiatives that encourage public-private partnerships, enabling local governments to leverage state resources for affordable housing development. The City also advocates for legislative reform to address construction defect litigation, which has hindered affordable condominium development. Like many communities, Wheat Ridge faces a shortage of entry-level homeownership options, particularly condominiums. We support state-level reforms that protect consumers while encouraging developer investment in these projects. Additionally, Wheat Ridge supports state legislation that streamlines the disposal of state-owned land for affordable housing development (excluding parks and open space), while respecting local land use authority and coordinating with local governments. Preserving naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) is a key priority. The City advocates for increased state funding to maintain and improve aging rental units, ensuring they remain accessible to low- and moderate-income households. These legislative priorities reflect Wheat Ridge’s commitment to fostering a community where affordable housing is available to all, strengthening the city’s social fabric and economic resilience. Opposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes any state legislation that restricts local governments’ ability to implement affordable housing solutions tailored to their communities’ specific needs. This includes blanket policies that mandate uniform zoning or development standards that do not account for local contexts, which could stifle innovative approaches to affordable housing. Additionally, the City would resist state funding cuts to programs that support low- and moderate-income housing development, as such reductions would undermine the ability of local governments to address critical housing shortages. Furthermore, any legislation that undermines the preservation of naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) would be met with strong opposition, as it jeopardizes the availability of affordable rental options for vulnerable populations. www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |3 Community Development Community Development shapes the City’s physical growth, aiming for safe, attractive neighborhoods and vibrant commercial areas. This effort involves collaboration with residents and businesses and encompasses planning, zoning, neighborhood engagement, affordable housing, building permits, floodplain management, and engineering services. The City of Wheat Ridge is dedicated to promoting thoughtful and balanced development that empowers local control over zoning, land use, and development standards, while addressing critical barriers to housing growth. The City faces challenges due to limited utility capacity and the readiness of smaller utility districts to modernize for future needs, both of which are critical for development. As utility capacity is beyond the City’s control, we urge the state to obligate and support these providers in working collaboratively with local governments, engaging in forward-looking planning, and expanding capacity to meet increasing demand. Additionally, we seek state funding for long-term planning and community engagement initiatives, essential for shaping development that aligns with the needs and aspirations of our residents. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation The City strongly opposes statewide mandates that impose one-size-fits-all changes to local land use laws, zoning ordinances, or density requirements. Specifically, we reject state efforts that dictate how municipalities must achieve statewide goals. If the state insists on setting specific goals for municipalities, it should refrain from prescribing the methods for achieving them, allowing local governments the flexibility to develop solutions that best fit their unique communities. We also oppose uniform building codes that limit our ability to adopt local standards for development and safety. The City rejects legislation that restricts our control over development review timelines, licensing, and permitting processes. Our established systems ensure high standards and effective governance, and statewide changes could undermine community safety and responsible growth. | www.ci.wheatridge.co.us4 Economic Development Wheat Ridge promotes economic development by marketing the city, attracting retail, revitalizing commercial corridors, and expanding primary job growth opportunities. The City’s Urban Renewal Authority manages several areas to eliminate blight, enhance quality of life, and attract new economic investment. Wheat Ridge urges the state to support local governments in creating vibrant economic ecosystems through policies and investments that drive business growth, innovation, and workforce development. The City seeks funding for programs that assist small and local businesses, especially those owned by underrepresented groups, by providing access to capital and technical resources. Additionally, state support for economic development planning is crucial for local governments to strategize for long-term growth. The City calls for prioritization of workforce development initiatives in key industries, such as light manufacturing and creative sectors, and for investments in flex spaces and facilities that create local jobs. Wheat Ridge advocates for training and education programs to help residents advance their careers in emerging industries. Furthermore, the City requests state investment in redevelopment projects and public infrastructure improvements to revitalize commercial corridors and attract new businesses, while promoting sustainable development practices that enhance housing attainability and quality of life. State- funded technical assistance is also essential to ensure entrepreneurs and small business owners have the support needed to thrive in a competitive economy. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes state initiatives that encourage economic development without meaningful collaboration with local governments. The City resists legislation that restricts local flexibility in implementing tailored economic strategies or that imposes additional administrative burdens on local businesses, as such requirements can hinder efforts to foster a thriving local economy. Additionally, the City opposes reductions in workforce development funding, which are vital for providing residents with the training and job opportunities needed by local industries. www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |5 Homelessness Wheat Ridge operates a comprehensive homeless navigation program in collaboration with neighboring municipalities. This program assists individuals on their journey to secure transitional and permanent housing, ultimately guiding them toward self-sufficiency. Wheat Ridge is committed to addressing homelessness by advocating for state legislation that supports local governments in providing housing and assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness. We urge the state to prioritize funding for transitional housing programs, down payment assistance, and ongoing support services like case management, counseling, job training, and financial literacy. These services are vital for helping individuals achieve long- term stability and independence. Emergency rental assistance programs are also critical for preventing homelessness, and we seek state support to expand these initiatives. Additionally, we call for state funding to establish homeless navigation centers staffed by trained professionals to connect individuals with shelter and resources. Increased funding for severe weather shelters is necessary to provide safe housing during extreme conditions. Recognizing that many individuals experiencing homelessness are employed or seeking work, we request state support for programs that assist with utility bills, food, and transportation, which are essential for maintaining employment and achieving housing stability. These legislative priorities reflect Wheat Ridge’s commitment to holistic solutions for homelessness, ensuring all residents have access to housing and essential services. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes state policies that impose a uniform approach to addressing homelessness, as these fail to address the unique challenges faced by local governments. Financial support to municipalities that restrict local discretion in resource allocation or solution development hinders effective local responses. The City also opposes cuts to state funding for homeless services, which are vital for supporting tailored efforts to address homelessness. | www.ci.wheatridge.co.us6 Governance & Home Rule Home Rule allows Colorado municipalities to govern local matters. Wheat Ridge became a Home Rule municipality in 1976, valuing municipal autonomy to address residents’ unique needs, which is essential to the principles of democracy.This autonomy provides the foundation for effective local governance, allowing the City to define its governing structure, amend its charter, set local election procedures, and implement ordinances and policies that reflect community priorities. Wheat Ridge advocates for the protection of local control, urging the state to support Home Rule cities in decisions regarding zoning, licensing, taxation, public services, and other municipal matters. The City promotes state policies that respect municipal Home Rule, including the authority to tailor governance procedures, manage local ballot measures and charter amendments, and determine election rules that best serve its residents, rather than imposing mandatory compliance with one-size-fits-all state mandates. By upholding these principles, the state empowers cities like Wheat Ridge to respond to local needs with accountability, adaptability, and direct citizen engagement. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes any state mandates that would undermine local authority over taxation, revenue generation, or core governance responsibilities, including legislation that imposes unfunded mandates or restrictions on constitutionally or charter-defined powers. These priorities underscore Wheat Ridge’s commitment to local self-determination, ensuring the City can continue to serve its residents effectively, preserve the distinct character of the community, and maintain governance practices such as charter amendments, ordinance implementation, and locally-determined election procedures that reflect the will of its residents. www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |7 Infrastructure & Transportation Wheat Ridge is committed to maintaining and enhancing its infrastructure, including 133 miles of streets, 36 miles of storm sewers, 48 traffic signals, and over 6,000 signs. The City plans, designs, and constructs capital projects in public rights-of-way, licenses contractors, and oversees permits and inspections. Wheat Ridge also collaborates with regional partners like RTD, CDOT, and DRCOG to provide reliable, affordable transportation. Wheat Ridge calls on the state to fund and incentivize local infrastructure improvements, such as roads, bike lanes, trails, and stormwater systems, to enhance connectivity, safety, and resilience against climate impacts. Support for multimodal transportation will expand mobility, reduce congestion, and encourage sustainable travel. The City seeks funding for equitable regional transit, ADA upgrades, and modernized public facilities to meet evolving community needs. Wheat Ridge also urges state support for expanding essential utilities to enable new housing and business growth. The City calls on the state to ensure equitable, affordable broadband access and foster a competitive marketplace. These priorities reflect Wheat Ridge’s commitment to infrastructure supporting community well-being and economic growth. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation The City opposes legislation that limits its ability to prioritize infrastructure improvements for roads, bike lanes, and trails based on local needs and connectivity goals. Wheat Ridge also rejects state actions that withhold transportation funding unless cities comply with state land-use requirements or other mandates, as such measures undermine local decision-making and the quality of infrastructure. Additionally, the City opposes laws that hinder local efforts to expand utilities and transit, which are vital for sustainable growth and quality of life. The City’s commitment to prioritizing local needs is best served by maintaining local control over transportation planning, which enables the creation of a tailored and efficient network that meets the community’s specific requirements. Furthermore, Wheat Ridge opposes state mandates related to permits in the right-of-way, including permit review timelines and laws that bypass city review processes, as these infringe on local authority, compromise public safety, and force the City to deprioritize other essential activities. Lastly, Wheat Ridge opposes mandated upgrades to city facilities that lack accompanying funding, as such requirements impose an undue financial burden on the City and hinder our ability to effectively manage resources and prioritize essential services. | www.ci.wheatridge.co.us8 Parks and Recreation The City of Wheat Ridge manages a diverse parks and recreation department with over 21 parks covering 173 acres, a 70,000-square-foot recreation center, and more than 300 acres of open space. We offer various recreation programs and sports activities for the community to enjoy the outdoors, along with several events to engage and connect residents throughout the year. The City of Wheat Ridge respectfully requests continued state support to enhance and maintain our parks and recreation system, vital for community well-being, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality. We seek funding to expand and modernize parks, create new recreational areas, and enhance trail connectivity, providing residents with safe, vibrant spaces for physical activity and community engagement. Additionally, we ask for state support for water conservation initiatives in our parks, such as sustainable landscaping and irrigation upgrades, to address environmental challenges and ensure long-term resource preservation. Finally, we urge the state to assist with maintenance and upgrades to recreational facilities, including the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center and Anderson Pool, which serve thousands of residents annually and require ongoing investment for safety, accessibility, and to meet our community’s growing needs. Proposed Legislation Opposed Legislation The City of Wheat Ridge firmly opposes any statewide legislation that diminishes local control over parks and recreation management, as local governments are best suited to understand their communities’ unique needs and priorities. We also oppose initiatives that would reduce funding for parks and recreation projects from the Colorado Lottery or other state sources, as these funds are vital for maintaining and expanding parks and open spaces. A reduction would significantly hinder our ability to provide high-quality recreational amenities for residents. Finally, we reject statewide legislation imposing additional requirements on recreation staff and volunteers. Wheat Ridge values the expertise of its staff and believes decisions about staffing qualifications and training should be made locally, as state regulations would create unnecessary burdens and limit our capacity to deliver essential recreational programs. www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |9 Public Safety Wheat Ridge prioritizes community safety through its full-service suburban police agency, offering emergency response, criminal investigations, traffic safety, code enforcement, animal control, park enforcement, crime prevention, and school resource officers. Committed to relationship-based policing, the Department partners with residents to foster safer neighborhoods and uphold shared community values. Wheat Ridge prioritizes resident safety and urges the state to support local governments with resources to enhance public safety infrastructure. The City seeks funding for relationship-based policing, expanded mental health support, and investment in emergency response systems to protect residents during crises and natural disasters. As part of this effort, Wheat Ridge is pursuing legislation to formally authorize municipalities providing primary enforcement on state and federal highways, including the use of Automated Vehicle Identification Systems (AVIS) to reduce speeding and accidents, and to ensure local departments are compensated for these responsibilities. This legislation would establish cost-sharing mechanisms for enforcement and investigation expenses and create a coordinated partnership with the Colorado State Patrol and CDOT, ensuring highway safety responsibilities do not overextend local resources while keeping community policing focused on resident needs Proposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes state legislation that limits local law enforcement’s ability to implement community-focused, relationship-based policing. The City also opposes legislation that imposes mandates on or restricts local discretion in training programs, reduces funding for mental health support and crisis response, or increases liability or removes immunity for officers, as this could compromise public safety by deterring effective policing. Additionally, Wheat Ridge opposes state laws that restrict local standards for policing and emergency response, preferring flexibility to meet community-specific needs. The City also opposes cuts to emergency communication and preparedness funding, which are essential for responding to natural disasters and emergencies effectively. Opposed Legislation | www.ci.wheatridge.co.us10 Special Districts & Utilities Utilities and special districts are essential to Wheat Ridge’s quality of life, economic vitality, and future growth, providing critical services such as water, wastewater, stormwater, energy, and broadband. Because many of these providers operate outside direct municipal control, strong coordination and collaboration are necessary to ensure services align with community needs. Wheat Ridge supports state legislation that strengthens coordination and collaboration between municipalities, utilities, and special districts. The City advocates for policies that require and incentivize utilities and special districts to engage in long-range planning with local governments so infrastructure capacity keeps pace with housing needs, redevelopment, and population growth. The City supports state funding and technical assistance to modernize utility infrastructure, expand capacity, and improve system resilience, particularly for water, wastewater, stormwater, energy, and broadband. Investments that promote affordability, reliability, and climate resilience are essential to economic development and public health. Wheat Ridge also supports legislation that encourages investor-owned utilities and special districts to advance sustainability goals such as water conservation, renewable energy, emissions reduction, and equitable access to clean energy and broadband. The City supports policies that promote transparency, data sharing, accountability, and timely, responsive customer service, ensuring utilities address the questions and concerns of local governments and residents and support informed local planning and decision-making. Proposed Legislation Wheat Ridge opposes state legislation that limits local governments’ ability to coordinate with utilities and special districts or that preempts municipal planning authority related to infrastructure, land use, or development readiness. The City is particularly concerned with policies that impose strict approval timelines on municipalities, such as 90-day review requirements for affordable housing projects, without holding utilities and special districts to comparable standards. When cities are penalized for delays driven by external providers beyond their control, these policies create inequitable accountability, strain interagency coordination, and hinder effective planning and timely project delivery. More broadly, Wheat Ridge opposes unfunded or underfunded state mandates placed on utilities or special districts that ultimately shift costs, risks, or service disruptions onto municipalities and residents. The City also opposes legislation that limits local input on utility expansion, right-of-way management, or infrastructure siting decisions, as such constraints can compromise public safety, economic development, and the City’s long-term community goals. Opposed Legislation www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |11 Wheat Ridge opposes state laws imposing rigid sustainability standards on local governments, as these restrict the City’s ability to tailor initiatives to community needs and values. The City believes sustainability efforts should be shaped by local input and reflect Wheat Ridge’s unique environmental and economic conditions. Additionally, Wheat Ridge rejects state mandates that overlook local contexts and priorities, which hinder innovative solutions for environmental responsibility and community resilience. The City also opposes cuts to funding for local sustainability programs, as these resources are vital for addressing water conservation, waste diversion, and sustainable transportation. Opposed Legislation Sustainability Wheat Ridge offers a comprehensive sustainability program, including the Sustainable Neighborhoods initiative, sustainability-focused community events, and water-wise landscaping programs. The City provides residents with information on clean air and assists businesses in adopting sustainable practices. Recently, Wheat Ridge adopted a Sustainability Action Plan outlining key objectives for the near future. Wheat Ridge supports state legislation advancing water conservation, sustainable transportation, and waste diversion per its Sustainability Action Plan. The City advocates for funding water efficiency programs, collaboration with water districts, and coordinated conservation and stormwater management efforts to address Colorado’s challenges. It backs laws encouraging investor-owned utilities to cut carbon emissions and supports grants for energy- and water-efficiency efforts. Priorities include improving air and water quality, promoting public health and environmental justice, and ensuring equitable access to tree canopies, multimodal transportation infrastructure, and electric vehicles (EVs) through expanded charging infrastructure and affordability programs. The City also urges state efforts to expand EV adoption, incentivize renewable energy projects, increase multimodal transportation, and make composting and recycling accessible in lowincome communities. Additionally, Wheat Ridge seeks investment in small businesses adopting sustainable practices and funding for local sustainability planning, workforce development, and community engagement. These priorities underscore Wheat Ridge’s commitment to thriving, sustainable communities. Proposed Legislation | www.ci.wheatridge.co.us12 Rachel Hultin District II (Chair)rhultin@wheatridge.gov 03-667-0609 Committee Members Dan Larson District IV (Vice-Chair)dlarson@wheatridge.gov 303-585-1122 Mike Okada Distict IV (Counselor)mokada@wheatridge.gov 720-924-1799 For questions about the Legislative Agenda, please contact Cole at the following: Cole Haselip | Senior Management Analyst chaselip@wheatridge.gov | 720-271-4922 www.ci.wheatridge.co.us |13