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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-14-2026 Special Study Session Agenda PacketSPECIAL STUDY SESSION AGENDA CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO Monday, September 14, 2026 • The meeting will commence at the conclusion of the Regular City Council Meeting which starts at 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: • Attend the meeting in person at City Hall. Use the appropriate roster to sign up to speak upon arrival. • Provide comments in advance at www.wheatridgespeaks.org (comment by noon on September 14, 2026) • 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 September 14, 2026) • 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. Public Comment on Agenda Items 1. Community Partner Grant Program (CPGP) Committee Recommendations 2. Community Partner Grant Program (CPGP) – Wheat Ridge High School Allocations 3. Communal Outdoor Dining Areas Ordinance 4. Staff Report(s) 5. Elected Officials’ Report(s) ITEM NO. 1 Memorandum TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager Wyatt Peterson, Assistant to the City Manager FROM: Kory Kolar, Housing Navigator DATE: September 14, 2026 SUBJECT: Community Partners Grant Program Committee Recommendations ISSUE: The Community Partners Grant Program (CPGP) Committee is presenting its annual funding recommendations and seeking consensus to consider the requests in the 2027 City Budget. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The Community Partners Grant Program Committee recommends awarding a total of $180,000 to 32 organizations in the 2027 City Budget. The average award is $4,865 with the largest award being $12,000 and the smallest $1,000. An additional $20,000 has been allocated by Council to Wheat Ridge High School, to be distributed internally. BACKGROUND: In June 2016, City Council established the Community Partners Grant Program (formerly the Outside Agency Program) Committee to review outside agency grant applications and recommend funding amounts for each organization. This Committee was created to increase resident participation in the budget process and allow members to assess community needs against available resources before making recommendations to City Council. In June 2026, City Council appointed three new Wheat Ridge residents to serve on the Committee. Members serve three-year terms in accordance with the City Council’s rules for uncodified special committees and are limited to two consecutive terms. The current members and their terms are listed below. September 14, 2026 Page 2 DISCUSSION: The Committee reviewed applications from 37 community organizations, including six new applicants, requesting a total of $324,009.65 in funds. Compared to the last award cycle, the number of applicants decreased by six and the total requested funds decreased by $167,212. The decreases can be largely attributed to the changes made to this cycle’s review process, which was directed by Council at the April 20, 2026 study session. For the 2027 grant cycle, CPGP processes were modified in the following ways: • The previously established two-tier application process was maintained, with some minor changes. “Small requests” are those between $1-$7,500 and “large requests” are those $7,501 and above, but with a new maximum request (and maximum award) of $12,000. • Small requests were reviewed based on their application materials alone, while large requests were required to give a presentation to the Committee. Large requests were also required to align with at least one of the following City Council strategic priorities: o Housing Stability o Mental Health o Youth and Senior Programming o Sustainability and Active Transportation o Community Convening (places or events) • The application itself was simplified/streamlined as much as possible, which included eliminating some questions and combining others. • 10% of the total available CPGP funds (for this cycle: $20,000) was reserved as a block grant for Wheat Ridge High School organizations and clubs. School staff were instructed to field requests for funds and allocate them internally, then present their decisions and project descriptions to Council. The Committee is recommending $180,000 in awards to community partners in the District Name Term Expiration I I II II III III IV IV September 14, 2026 Page 3 2027 City Budget; this total, combined with the $20,000 block grant for Wheat Ridge High School, equals $200,000 in available CPGP funds. Attachment 1 provides the full schedule of recommendations, and Attachment 2 summarizes all applicant organizations and their funding requests. Committee members Aspen Jacoby and Kelsey Robb will present the Committee’s recommendations and be available to answer any questions from City Council at the September 14, 2026 Study Session. Following the CPGP Committee presentation, the Wheat Ridge High School staff will present their recommended disbursement of the $20,000 in allocated funds to City Council. RECOMMENDATIONS: The Community Partners Grant Program Committee requests consensus to consider its annual funding recommendations in the 2027 City Budget. ATTACHMENTS: 1. 2027 Community Partners Grant Program Recommendations 2. 2027 CPGP Applicant Summary ATTACHMENT 1 ATTACHMENT 2 2027 Community Partners Grant Program Applicant Summary A Little Help Program Description: A Little Help (ALH) supports older Wheat Ridge residents with services like transportation, home help, and caregiver respite through the Village Movement model. Its programs, including visits, check-ins, discussions, and social events, promote health, safety, and community connection. Request: $6,950 Request Description: ALH requests funding to expand volunteer-supported services and outreach for older adults in Wheat Ridge. The grant would help cover program coordination, background checks, volunteer onboarding, event supplies, appreciation efforts, and maintenance of ALH’s volunteer portal. Success will be measured through increased members served, new volunteer engagement, intergenerational events held, and survey-based improvements in quality of life and satisfaction. The Action Center Program Description: The Action Center helps Wheat Ridge residents meet immediate needs and address hardship causes. Services include groceries, clothing, benefits assistance, rent and utility aid, family coaching, and school supply drives. While most clients seek food support, many benefit from programs that promote health, stability, and quality of life. Request: $7,500 Request Description: The Action Center requests funding to support food procurement and partial staffing for its Food Program as it transitions to a new cost-free market using a flexible points system. The grant will help maintain access to fresh and shelf-stable foods for Wheat Ridge residents. Success will be measured through household participation, demographic tracking, food-program surveys, and feedback from community members. Archway Communities Program Description: Archway Communities supports older adults in Wheat Ridge by managing Highland West affordable housing and offering on-site services. Staff help residents stabilize, reduce isolation, and access essential resources. By promoting dignity and wellness, Archway enables low-income seniors to age in place with community support. Request: $7,475.85 Request Description: Archway requests funding to expand housing stabilization services at Highland West by strengthening on-site support from the property manager. The grant would enhance individualized assistance, budgeting guidance, and referrals that help 234 older adults maintain stable housing. Success will be measured through resident participation, retention rates, community-needs-assessment engagement, and ongoing feedback from the Resident Council and one-on-one interactions. Benefits in Action Program Description: Benefits in Action (BIA) provides culturally responsive, person-centered navigation that helps Colorado residents enroll in essential public benefits such as SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, SSDI/SSI, and TANF. By addressing enrollment barriers related to disability, literacy, language, digital access, and system complexity, BIA improves health equity, food security, and economic stability for vulnerable populations. Request: $10,000 Request Description: BIA seeks funding to support benefits navigation services for Wheat Ridge residents facing barriers to enrolling in SNAP, Medicaid, Medicare, and related programs. With anticipated demand increases due to upcoming Medicare and Medicaid changes, funds would help maintain service capacity, expand outreach, and support application assistance. Success will be measured through client contacts, applications submitted, and cost-efficient service delivery. BookGive Program Description: Founded in 2019, BookGive provides free books to nonprofits, schools, and individuals, promoting literacy as a human right. It supports groups that benefit from book access, fostering opportunity, empathy, and well-being. To date, it has distributed over 450,000 books through community programs and plans to expand services to Wheat Ridge. Request: $7,501 Request Description: BookGive requests funding to expand book access in Wheat Ridge by developing new partnerships with schools, clinics, senior centers, housing communities, and organizations serving low-income residents. Funds would support regular book distributions and bookmobile engagement at community events. Success will be measured through new partnerships, ongoing distribution cycles, and increased numbers of books delivered to Wheat Ridge organizations. CASA of Jefferson and Gilpin Counties Program Description: Child abuse and neglect negatively impact children’s development, health, and future well-being. CASA volunteers provide consistent support, advocating for tailored services in court and beyond. Their work improves the health, safety, and quality of life for vulnerable children in Wheat Ridge. Request: $7,500 Request Description: CASA requests funding to support advocacy and coaching for Wheat Ridge children and youth involved in child welfare and court systems. The grant would help provide individualized support that promotes safety, stability, and long-term success. Success will be measured through the number of children served—approximately 200 overall, including 60 Wheat Ridge residents—and tracked through statewide well-being assessments documenting progress across multiple life domains. Colorado Youth for a Change Program Description: Reading Corps helps Wheat Ridge students, especially at Stevens Elementary, where just 19% of 3rd graders read at grade level. Since 2022, a full-time tutor has delivered daily literacy interventions, with 79% of 21 students reaching grade-level targets last year. Early support helps prevent lifelong academic struggles, particularly for at-risk, low-income children. Request: $12,000 Request Description: The request supports a full-time Reading Corps tutor at Stevens Elementary to provide daily literacy interventions for 40 Wheat Ridge students over two school years. Funding covers tutor compensation, enabling individualized tutoring proven to accelerate reading growth. Success will be measured through hours of tutoring delivered, weekly assessments, and at least 70% of participating students meeting grade-level reading targets. Community Table Program Description: Community Table provides food assistance, emergency financial support, and stabilization services for residents facing hardship. Through its client-choice pantry, mobile pantry, home delivery program, and supportive service referrals, the organization helps Wheat Ridge neighbors meet urgent needs while building long-term stability. For 45 years, Community Table has been a trusted resource for families, seniors, and individuals experiencing financial strain. Request: $7,500 Request Description: Community Table requests funding to support emergency food assistance, financial aid, and stabilization programs for Wheat Ridge residents. The grant would help cover costs for nutritious food distribution, rent and utility support, transportation assistance, benefits enrollment, and referrals. Success will be measured through residents served, program participation, food distributed, financial assistance provided, and client feedback on reduced stress and increased stability. Denver Urban Gardens Program Description: Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) brings the physical and mental health benefits of community gardening to Wheat Ridge through programs like the Stevens Elementary garden, providing healthy snacks, potlucks, and donations to hunger relief. DUG promotes wellness, cultural exchange, and food access, supporting overall community health. Request: $5,272.80 Request Description: DUG requests funding to improve irrigation infrastructure at the Wheat Ridge Food Forest and Stevens Elementary community garden. Upgrades will expand water access, reduce leakage, improve system reliability, and support productive perennial crops and outdoor education. Success will be measured through completion of irrigation enhancements, reduced water loss, healthier growing spaces, and sustained activation of both sites by residents and students. Energy Outreach Colorado Program Description: Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) helps Wheat Ridge residents afford essential energy through emergency bill assistance and solar programs. In 2024–2025, it provided over $180,000 to 255 households, supporting 659 individuals. Fifty-six households enrolled in solar gardens have saved $19,000 collectively. Request: $12,000 Request Description: EOC requests funding to support emergency energy assistance for Wheat Ridge households, particularly those not covered by legislated aid or served by municipal or unregulated energy providers. The grant would help prevent utility shut-offs, maintain safe living conditions, and connect residents to long-term affordability programs. Success will be measured through residents served, average assistance provided, participant surveys, and partner engagement. Everitt Middle School PTA Program Description: Everitt Middle School serves Wheat Ridge as the community’s only middle school, providing a safe, inclusive environment that supports academic growth, personal development, and a strong sense of belonging for students of all backgrounds. The school promotes connection among families, educators, and neighbors while preparing youth for success at Wheat Ridge High School and beyond. Request: $7,500 Request Description: Everitt Middle School PTA requests funding to support International Night, a community celebration showcasing cultural traditions through food, music, art, performances, and student projects. The grant would ensure the event remains accessible, engaging, and welcoming as attendance grows. Success will be measured through increased cultural representation, expanded performances, broader community participation, and strengthened connections among students, families, and Wheat Ridge residents. Explore and Discover Program Description: Explore and Discover is a nonprofit cooperative childcare program providing high-quality, Reggio Emilia-inspired early learning for infants and toddlers. Families participate as co-owners, volunteering time and supporting governance while educators deliver developmentally strong, curiosity-driven instruction. The model offers affordable, relationship-based care that strengthens social-emotional development and builds early readiness for Wheat Ridge’s youngest learners. Request: $7,500 Request Description: Explore and Discover requests funding to strengthen operational infrastructure needed to sustain and scale its cooperative childcare model. Support would help build administrative systems, expand staff capacity, and improve processes that enable affordable, high-quality early education. Success will be measured through enrollment stability, staff and parent-volunteer feedback, and the ability to share the cooperative model as a replicable solution for Wheat Ridge families. Family Tree, Inc. Program Description: Since 1976, Family Tree has addressed child abuse, domestic violence, and related homelessness in Jefferson County. It is the only Denver-area organization connecting these issues. In Wheat Ridge, Family Tree helps residents move from crisis response to long-term stability, self-sufficiency, and well-being. Request: $12,000 Request Description: Family Tree requests funding to continue providing crisis intervention, housing navigation, domestic violence services, and supportive resources to Wheat Ridge residents. Grant support helps sustain integrated programs that address safety, housing stability, and family well-being. Success is measured through program outcomes, demographic data, periodic assessments, and client feedback collected at exit and through post-engagement surveys. Farmers 5000 Program Description: Farmers 5000 is Wheat Ridge High School’s long-standing 5K fundraiser, supporting educational, extracurricular, and enrichment needs as student-based funding declines. Since 1981, the event has brought residents together to promote fitness, school pride, and community engagement. Funds help provide learning resources, student support, and opportunities that ensure a strong, competitive educational environment. Request: $12,000 Request Description: The request supports Farmers 5000’s ability to fund teacher, staff, and program needs that exceed available resources, including scholarships, music department upgrades, study materials, and student support initiatives. Demand for assistance far surpasses current funding capacity. Success is measured by the number and breadth of staff requests met and the overall impact on Wheat Ridge High School’s 900 students. Foothills Regional Housing Program Description: Foothills Regional Housing (FRH) is Wheat Ridge’s largest affordable housing provider, managing 13 properties and nearly 600 vouchers. It offers services and partnerships that promote residents’ stability, health, and well-being. FRH supports vulnerable households in accessing resources to stay housed and thrive. Request: $10,000 Request Description: FRH requests funding to sustain on-site resident services at The Ives, including case management, mental-health support, direct-assistance gift cards, and community-building activities. The grant would help maintain weekly FRH case manager hours and flexible resident assistance that supports stability during the first year of tenancy. Success is measured by housing retention rates, with a goal of increasing stability to at least 90% of households. Friends of Paha Program Description: Camp Paha provides therapeutic, adaptive summer recreation for individuals with disabilities through activities like science, music, arts, and field trips. Many families rely on it for respite, and Friends of Paha raises funds to make camp more affordable. The program also supports caregivers’ well-being by allowing them to work and care for other children. Request: $5,000 Request Description: Funding is requested to subsidize Camp registration and participation for 3-5 Wheat Ridge students. Friends of Stevens Program Description: Friends of Stevens (FOS) is the volunteer PTO for Stevens Elementary, supporting events and resources that boost student success and community connection. Serving mostly low-income families, FOS complements the school’s focus on social- emotional growth. Following the 2024 consolidation with Wilmore Davis, FOS now supports a larger community, fostering family support, connection, and empowerment. Request: $12,000 Request Description: Friends of Stevens requests funding to subsidize After-School Enrichment Clubs and support family engagement events at Stevens Elementary. The grant would make extracurricular programs more affordable, expand access for low-income students, and strengthen connections between families and the school. Success will be measured through participation rates, event attendance, waitlists, family feedback, and increased engagement from students and caregivers. Hope Connection and Community Program Description: HCC's Eat Well / Live Well program promotes community health by offering grocery support, an emergency pantry, and fresh produce from an organic garden. It also strengthens neighborhood ties through community events, fostering connection and belonging in Wheat Ridge. Request: $12,000 Request Description: Hope Connection and Community requests funding to expand Eat Well / Live Well, providing tailored grocery orders, emergency pantry support, and fresh, nutritious foods to Wheat Ridge families. The grant would help increase capacity from 360 families served in 2026 to at least 500 in 2027. Success is measured by the number of families supported and the program’s ability to maintain or grow service levels. Jeffco Eats Program Description: Jeffco Eats addresses food insecurity to improve the well-being of Wheat Ridge residents, especially children. It delivers food to trusted locations across Jefferson County, where 30,000 of 75,000 students live in poverty. By providing healthy food, Jeffco Eats helps prevent long-term negative impacts on children’s health, education, and future. Request: $7,500 Request Description: Jeffco Eats requests funding to supply weekend and summer food totes for Wheat Ridge students facing food insecurity. The grant will help distribute thousands of bags of nutritious food, stock partner school pantries, and support pop-up fresh-food events. Success will be measured by totes distributed, pounds of pantry food supplied, summer support delivered, and the number of children reached weekly. Jeffco Prosperity Partners Program Description: Jeffco Prosperity Partners (JPP) promotes stability, health, and opportunity by connecting families to healthcare, housing, education, and community resources. Its services improve health, reduce homelessness risk, and support workforce readiness, with strong education outcomes for parents and students. Early childhood programs, youth services, and community events foster child development and social connection, strengthening the community. Request: $6,850 Request Description: JPP requests funding to support operational costs and family-supportive services such as education pathways, job training, parenting resources, financial literacy workshops, healthcare navigation, childcare during programs, and emergency financial assistance. Success will be measured through self-sufficiency outcomes, enrollment and employment progress, family engagement in workshops, satisfaction surveys, and data tracked through CFSA assessments and GenApp case-management systems. Jefferson County Schools Foundation Program Description: Jeffco Schools Foundation supports Wheat Ridge public schools by funding basic needs, innovative programs, and educator resources. Its work reduces inequities, expands opportunities in arts and careers, and helps students thrive. This strengthens the community and enriches the broader area. Request: $12,000 Request Description: Jeffco Schools Foundation requests funding to expand classroom grants, student experiences, and essential resources for Wheat Ridge schools. Support will strengthen literacy and math access, fund educator-led innovation, provide career pathways, and deliver basic needs to vulnerable students. Success will be measured through student reach, equity-focused allocations, classroom grant numbers, basic-needs distribution, academic benchmarks, engagement metrics, and stakeholder feedback. Jefferson County Library Foundation (Wheat Ridge Library) Program Description: The Wheat Ridge Library serves more than 140,000 people annually, offering free access to books, learning resources, technology, and community programs. Its inclusive environment supports connection, education, and creativity for residents of all ages. Through partnerships and culturally diverse programming, the library strengthens community engagement and provides opportunities for lifelong learning across Wheat Ridge. Request: $1,800 Request Description: The library requests funding to support free cultural celebrations featuring music, dance, visual arts, storytelling, and hands-on activities. These intergenerational programs will highlight diverse traditions, engage youth and seniors, and partner with local artists and cultural groups. Success will be measured through attendance, cross-generational participation, number of events offered, artist partnerships, and community feedback documenting connection and inclusion. Jewish Family Service Program Description: Jewish Family Service (JFS) supports Wheat Ridge older adults through Aging Care and Connections, offering care management, homemaker assistance, resource navigation, workshops, and links to food, mental health, and financial-aid programs. JFS helps residents overcome challenges tied to aging, isolation, fixed incomes, and complex service systems, promoting safety, stability, and independence for older adults across the community. Request: $7,500 Request Description: JFS requests funding to provide homemaker support, care management, and information and referral services for 70–75 Wheat Ridge seniors. The grant would fund essential household assistance, weekly onsite support, and educational workshops that enhance safety and independence. Success will be measured through service utilization, care-management contact data, workshop participation, and client-reported improvements in health, stability, and access to needed resources. Kennedi Calling Program Description: Kennedi Calling strengthens community wellness through integrated housing counseling, mental-health navigation, workforce development, youth support, senior assistance, and transportation resources. With monthly in-person and weekly virtual convenings, the organization provides accessible, wraparound services that help residents understand their rights, access essential supports, and build stability. Partnerships expand coordinated assistance across Wheat Ridge. Request: $12,000 Request Description: Kennedi Calling requests funding to expand its Wheat Ridge Community Connect program, offering housing stability support, eviction-prevention counseling, youth job placement, senior income assistance, and regular community convenings. The grant would help increase service capacity from 24 to more than 75 residents. Success will be measured through residents served, stable housing outcomes, program participation, employment placements, and referrals to partner organizations. Mile High Farmers Program Description: Mile High Farmers supports local food systems through farmer-led education, community engagement, and advocacy. Its member farms—including several in Wheat Ridge—provide fresh food access through CSAs and SNAP/WIC-eligible markets. The organization builds producer skills in soil health, composting, seed stewardship, and regenerative practices while convening farmers, policymakers, and funders to strengthen regional agricultural resilience. Request: $7,500 Request Description: Mile High Farmers requests funding to support its annual Producers Summit, including event coordination, facilitated sessions, and farmer stipends. The Summit fosters dialogue, shared problem-solving, and regional collaboration among producers and stakeholders. Success will be measured through attendance, Wheat Ridge participation, stipends issued to farmers, number of facilitated sessions, and survey results reflecting program value and relevance. Mission Arvada of The Rising Church Program Description: Mission Arvada supports adults experiencing unsheltered homelessness with day shelter services, meals, showers, clothing, and case management. Its Navigation Center and Housing Support team help clients secure housing and jobs, while onsite partners provide medical and behavioral care. By addressing urgent needs and reducing visible homelessness, it improves health, safety, and quality of life for Wheat Ridge residents. Request: $12,000 Request Description: Mission Arvada requests funding to sustain Housing Support case management and provide essential move-in assistance for newly housed residents. The grant would help cover staffing costs and support application fees, deposits, first-month rent, and basic supplies that vulnerable clients cannot afford. Success will be measured through case-managed clients served, one-year housing retention rates, and limited move-in assistance to six residents. Outdoor Lab Foundation Program Description: The Foundation enhances Wheat Ridge residents’ quality of life through nature-based education that supports youth physical, mental, and social- emotional health. It ensures equitable access by covering tuition for low-income families and mentoring sixth graders. Volunteerism and community stewardship foster resilience, inclusivity, and civic engagement, strengthening the community for the future. Request: $12,000 Request Description: The foundation requests funding to provide tuition assistance for Wheat Ridge-area sixth graders, especially those from Title I and FRL-qualifying households. Rising participation fees create barriers that prevent low-income students from attending Outdoor Lab. The grant would cover full tuition for 36 students. Success will be measured through participation rates, FRL student attendance, opt-out reductions, and distribution of tuition awards. Reclaim Integrative Dentistry Program Description: Reclaim Integrative Dentistry provides biological and holistic dental care focused on the connection between oral health and whole-body wellness. Using biocompatible materials, minimally invasive techniques, and personalized treatment plans, the practice helps residents address inflammation, sleep-related issues, restorative needs, and preventive care. Reclaim also offers education and community outreach to support healthier living in Wheat Ridge. Request: $6,200 Request Description: Reclaim requests funding to redesign its monument sign to improve visibility and community awareness of its holistic dental services. A modern, clearly identifiable sign will help residents access mercury-safe dentistry, biocompatible restorations, and whole-health oral care. Success will be measured through patient volume, appointment data, treatment completion, satisfaction feedback, and increased community engagement generated through improved wayfinding and outreach. Red Rocks Community College Foundation Program Description: Red Rocks Community College Foundation (RRCCF) supports local students through scholarships, workforce-training pathways, and wraparound resources that improve educational access and economic mobility. RRCC provides affordable instruction, advising, mental-health support, career services, and basic-needs assistance. Its programs help Wheat Ridge residents gain credentials, strengthen financial stability, and access employment opportunities that support long-term housing and community well-being. Request: $12,000 Request Description: RRCCF requests funding to establish the Wheat Ridge Opportunity Scholarship Fund, providing financial assistance for tuition, fees, supplies, and other college expenses. Through COSI, the City’s investment can be matched to double available scholarship dollars. Success will be measured through scholarships awarded, matching funds leveraged, student enrollment and persistence, and progress toward credential or degree completion for Wheat Ridge residents. Seniors Resource Center Program Description: Colorado’s population aged 65+ is projected to grow 35% in the next decade, with nearly 20% of Wheat Ridge residents in this age group. Seniors Resource Center (SRC) helps older adults remain safely in their homes. Its services improve quality of life and prevent premature moves to assisted living or homelessness. Request: $12,000 Request Description: SRC requests funding to sustain care management, in-home support, adult day and respite services, caregiver assistance, and community-connection activities for Wheat Ridge older adults. The grant would help serve 125 residents with assessments, daily-living support, respite hours, and counseling. Success will be measured through clients served, service hours delivered, care-plan outcomes, and feedback collected through surveys and quarterly check-ins. STRIDE Community Health Center Program Description: STRIDE, Colorado’s largest Federally Qualified Health Center, provides affordable, culturally sensitive care to over 52,000 patients annually. Serving the underserved and uninsured, it offers medical, dental, behavioral, and specialty services, including refugee and unhoused care. STRIDE’s work improves community health and well- being. Request: $12,000 Request Description: STRIDE requests funding to support three behavioral health provider salaries at its Wheat Ridge clinic, expanding capacity to conduct comprehensive screenings for adolescents and adults. The grant will help ensure early identification of mental health needs and connection to counseling or other supports. Success will be measured through screenings conducted, Wheat Ridge residents served, and post-care feedback tracked through STRIDE’s secure systems. Sunshine Home Share Colorado Program Description: Sunshine helps older adults age in place through a care-managed home-sharing model, providing assistance and income while offering affordable housing. Serving a community with nearly 30% over 65, it reduces isolation, eases housing pressures, and improves access to services. Personalized care coordination addresses housing, benefits, transportation, and healthcare needs. Request: $10,000 Request Description: Sunshine requests funding to support its hybrid home-sharing program, expanding affordable housing options and stability for Wheat Ridge older adults. Grant funds would help increase outreach, enhance matching capacity, and support both social-work-guided and online placements. Success will be measured through demographic tracking, applicant numbers, and achieving at least two supported matches and ten online matches for Wheat Ridge residents. Tin Shed Food Pantry Program Description: Since 2012, the Tin Shed Food Pantry has provided nutritious food to Wheat Ridge and nearby communities, remaining open throughout COVID to support those facing food insecurity. Its presence helps reduce food anxiety and improves residents’ health and quality of life. Request: $7,000 Request Description: Tin Shed requests funding to support food procurement needed to serve growing numbers of Wheat Ridge households. Grant dollars will help supplement donated items with fresh, high-quality foods purchased from local suppliers. Success will be measured through increased household participation, monthly tracking of Wheat Ridge residents served, and the ability to stabilize food deliveries for vulnerable families year-round. Wheat Ridge Active Transportation Advisory Team Program Description: The Active Transportation Advisory Team (ATATs) are Wheat Ridge’s volunteer advocacy group promoting safe streets, pedestrian access, and bicycle mobility. With more than 300 members, they host community meetings, organize rides, refurbish donated bikes, support Safe Routes to School efforts, and collaborate with city and county partners to improve active transportation infrastructure and education for residents of all ages. Request: $3,960 Request Description: The ATATs request funding to support outreach, events, bike refurbishment, advocacy activities, meeting costs, web hosting, and materials that strengthen bicycle and pedestrian safety. Funds will help expand community engagement and maintain key programs such as cruiser rides and the annual State of the City meeting. Success will be measured through bikes refurbished, events held, attendance, public comments, and communication outputs. Wheat Ridge Coalition for Education Program Description: The Wheat Ridge Coalition for Education streamlines resources and events by uniting Wheat Ridge schools, families, and community stakeholders to align efforts and avoid duplication. This approach strengthens community unity, enhances education and quality of life, and keeps families engaged while promoting active community involvement. Request: $6,500 Request Description: The coalition requests funding to support the Miracle Shop, Future Farmer Initiative, and Thanksgiving food cards, enabling expanded service for families and children across Wheat Ridge schools. Funds will help increase access to essential resources and unified family-support events. Success will be measured through families and students served, school participation data, and long-term trends in community engagement and school enrollment. Wheat Ridge Grange Program Description: The Wheat Ridge Grange is a historic community hub near the Green at 38th, hosting gatherings centered on learning, arts, civic engagement, charity, and local culture. As a longstanding venue for residents of all ages, it strengthens community connection and supports diverse programming. Request: $12,000 Request Description: The Grange requests funding to co-finance an Accessibility Evaluation and Conceptual Design for its historic building. The study will assess structural systems, document existing conditions, and develop design options for ADA improvements such as ramps or elevators. Success will be measured by delivery of the evaluation, conceptual designs, and cost estimates, enabling future capital funding and expanded access for residents with mobility needs. Modernization—particularly ADA accessibility— will ensure the Grange remains an inclusive and fully usable public asset. Wheat Ridge Optimist Club Program Description: The Wheat Ridge Optimist Club (WROC), founded in Wheat Ridge in 1957, supports community well-being through civic involvement and longstanding partnerships with local schools. Its work strengthens the quality of life for residents by helping families in need, participating in city initiatives, and maintaining strong ties across Wheat Ridge institutions, businesses, and community organizations. Request: $1,500 Request Description: WROC requests funding to support its annual Christmas Program, which provides grocery gift cards, Old Navy gift cards, and toys for Wheat Ridge families identified by local schools. The program served 75 families and more than 210 children in 2026. Success is measured by the number of families supported and toys provided through partnerships such as the Blue Santa event. ITEM NO. 2 Memorandum TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager Wyatt Peterson, Assistant to the City Manager FROM: Kory Kolar, Housing Navigator DATE: September 14, 2026 SUBJECT: Community Partners Grant Program – Wheat Ridge High School Allocations ISSUE: Staff members from Wheat Ridge High School will be presenting their recommended disbursement of $20,000 in Community Partners Grant Program (CPGP) funding. BACKGROUND: On April 20, 2026, City Council provided direction to reserve 10% of total CPGP funds as a block grant for Wheat Ridge High School, whose staff would solicit funding requests from school clubs and other programs, and allocate the grant internally. School staff will then present their decisions and project descriptions to Council. Council provided this direction based on two main concerns. First, the summer application window for CPGP applications was considered to be an added burden for school organizations that may not be as organized when school is out of session. And second, there was concern about many different organizations from the school competing against one another for funding from the CPGP Committee. Below is the list of recommendations provided by the Wheat Ridge High School Principal Lisa Mahannah, which is based on current needs for each program: • STEM: $5000 • Instrumental Music: $5000 • Cheerleading: $3000 • PTSA: $3000 • Fighting 43: $4000 Wheat Ridge High School staff members will present the High School’s recommended disbursement of the $20,000 block grant and be available to answer any questions from City Council at the September 14, 2026 Study Session. ITEM NO. 3 Memorandum TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager Marianne Schilling, Deputy City Manager FROM: Wyatt Peterson, Assistant to the City Manager DATE: September 14, 2026 SUBJECT: Communal Outdoor Dining Areas Ordinance ISSUE: Colorado law allows two or more eligible liquor licensees to share a defined outdoor area for food service and the sale and consumption of alcohol beverages through a Communal Outdoor Dining Area, or CODA, subject to approval by the state and local licensing authorities. The Wheat Ridge Code of Laws does not currently establish a local process or operating standards for the review, approval, and regulation of CODAs. Staff are seeking City Council consensus to advance a CODA ordinance for first and second readings at future Council meetings. The proposed ordinance would establish a local framework for authorizing and regulating CODAs consistent with state law, including requirements related to application and approval, security, premises control, insurance, sanitation, signage, use of public property, operations, and enforcement. PRIOR ACTION: None FINANCIAL IMPACT: The proposed ordinance does not establish specific CODA fee amounts. It authorizes the City Council to establish application, amendment, inspection, public property use, cost reimbursement, and other related fees by resolution. Any fees established by Council may be designed to reasonably offset the City’s costs associated with reviewing applications, administering the program, conducting inspections, and enforcing CODA requirements. Use of City-owned property or public right-of-way may also be subject to separate permits, agreements, fees, or reimbursement requirements. Staff recommend a cost-recovery fee structure tied to the City’s review of CODA applications and subsequent modifications. September 14, 2026 Page 2 Proposed CODA Fee Structure Fee Type Proposed Fee Description Initial CODA Application $150 Covers review of the joint CODA application, Site common application materials. Attachment/Modification of Premises $100 per participating licensee licensed premises to the CODA, consistent with the City’s existing modification-of-premises fee. Addition of an Attached Licensee $100 per new licensee licensee joins an existing CODA. Material Amendment to an Approved CODA $100 Applies to material changes such as changes to operating conditions. Licensee No fee in a material amendment to the CODA. Annual CODA Renewal No separate fee applicable annual liquor- Other Required Permits or Approvals Applicable existing fee property, special events, right-of- BACKGROUND: Staff began evaluating a local CODA framework in response to interest from local businesses seeking a lawful mechanism for adjacent liquor licensees to share outdoor dining space. Staff reviewed the requirements of C.R.S. § 44-3-912 and developed a Wheat Ridge-specific ordinance framework establishing local application, review, operating, and enforcement requirements. The proposed ordinance is intended to provide an additional tool for eligible businesses to create shared outdoor dining and gathering spaces while establishing clear standards for public safety, pedestrian and emergency access, neighborhood compatibility, and responsible alcohol service. Adoption of an ordinance would not approve any specific CODA; individual proposals would remain subject to the applicable state and local application and approval requirements. DISCUSSION: State Authorization September 14, 2026 Page 3 C.R.S. § 44-3-912 authorizes two or more eligible liquor licensees, including an approved sales room, to share a communal outdoor area for food and alcohol beverage service. Before operating within a CODA, participating licensees must receive approval from both the state and local licensing authorities and must modify their licensed premises to include the communal area. State law establishes the basic authority for CODAs but allows local licensing authorities to establish local application, review, operational, and enforcement requirements. The proposed ordinance establishes that local framework for Wheat Ridge. A CODA is distinct from an individual restaurant or brewery patio. An outdoor patio associated with only one licensed premises would continue to operate under the existing requirements applicable to that license and would not be subject to the CODA ordinance. Application and Approval Process Under the proposed ordinance, an applicant would submit a CODA application to the City Clerk. A complete application would include, among other information: • Identification of each participating liquor licensee; • A detailed site plan identifying the CODA boundaries, entrances and exits, seating, barriers, pedestrian routes, emergency access, restrooms, trash and recycling facilities, adjacent licensed premises, and any public property; • Documentation demonstrating the right to occupy and control the proposed CODA; • A unified Security and Control Plan; • Proposed days and hours of operation; • Information regarding staffing, supervision, security, and responsible alcohol service; • Proposed signage and boundary controls; • Sanitation, maintenance, trash, recycling, restroom, and cleanup procedures; • Required insurance documentation; and • Information regarding any proposed use of public property, temporary structures, heaters, lighting, music, or amplified sound. Applications may be routed to appropriate City departments and reviewing agencies, including Police, Community Development, Public Works, Finance, Risk Management, the Fire District, and the City Attorney. The City Clerk would be authorized to administratively approve, approve with conditions, deny, renew, amend, suspend, or revoke a CODA approval on behalf of the Local Licensing Authority. Matters presenting unresolved compliance issues, public safety concerns, neighborhood impacts, legitimate objections, use of public property requiring September 14, 2026 Page 4 discretionary review, or other significant issues may be referred to the Administrative Hearing Officer for a public hearing and determination. The City may also require notice to adjacent property owners, businesses, neighborhood organizations, or the public when warranted by the location, size, operational characteristics, use of public property, objections, or potential impacts of a proposed CODA. Operating and Public Safety Requirements Each approved CODA would be required to operate under a unified Security and Control Plan binding on all participating licensees. The plan must address supervision, security, alcohol control, boundaries, access, signage, sanitation, incident response, communication among participating licensees, and communication with City and emergency personnel. Participating licensees would be jointly responsible for compliance with state liquor law, the CODA ordinance, the approved Security and Control Plan, and conditions of approval. The ordinance would also establish requirements intended to maintain clear physical and operational control of the CODA. Boundaries must be clearly defined, and the City may require fencing, planters, gates, stanchions, pavement markings, signage, or similar measures. These features may not obstruct sidewalks, accessible routes, emergency access, traffic circulation, utilities, drainage, or other public infrastructure. Alcohol beverages must be purchased from an attached licensee and consumed within the approved CODA boundaries. Alcohol may not be removed from the CODA except as specifically permitted by state law, such as a properly resealed partially consumed bottle of wine or other alcohol expressly authorized for removal under applicable state liquor laws and regulations. Existing state requirements prohibiting service to persons under 21 and visibly intoxicated persons also apply. CODAs must comply with all other applicable City requirements, including noise, nuisance, zoning, building, fire, accessibility, and right-of-way regulations. Insurance Each participating licensee would be required to obtain insurance covering the entire CODA before final approval and maintain that coverage continuously while participating in the CODA. At a minimum, the ordinance would require: • Commercial general liability coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence and $2 million aggregate; and • Liquor liability coverage of at least $1 million per occurrence or common cause September 14, 2026 Page 5 and $1 million aggregate. If any portion of a CODA is located on City property or within the public right-of-way, the City would be named as an additional insured to the extent permitted by the insurer and applicable law. The City may require higher limits or additional coverage when warranted by the particular characteristics or risks of a CODA. Use of Public Property Approval of a CODA would not independently authorize the use of City-owned property or public right-of-way. Any proposed use of public property would require separate City authorization and could require an encroachment permit, right-of-way permit, revocable license, street closure permit, park permit, agreement, or other approval. The City could impose additional conditions related to maintenance, accessibility, emergency and public access, insurance, indemnification, snow removal, furniture and fixtures, hours of use, restoration, and reimbursement of City costs. This approach allows CODAs to potentially incorporate appropriate public spaces while preserving the City’s discretion and control over those properties. Enforcement The proposed ordinance would provide several enforcement mechanisms. CODA approvals may be conditioned, suspended, revoked, or not renewed for violations of state law, the ordinance, the Security and Control Plan, or conditions of approval. The ordinance would also expressly authorize the Police Department and designated City officials to take immediate action when necessary to address an imminent or existing threat to public health, safety, or welfare. Depending on the circumstances, this authority may include temporarily restricting access, directing corrective action, removing or relocating hazards, or ordering closure of all or part of a CODA. Emergency orders may initially be given verbally when immediate action is necessary, with written confirmation provided as soon as practicable. A closed CODA may reopen once the condition requiring closure has been corrected and the appropriate City official determines that reopening will not create an unreasonable public safety risk. The ordinance would also allow the City to recover certain costs associated with closing, securing, correcting, restoring, or reopening a CODA to the extent permitted by law. RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommend that City Council provide consensus to move a Communal Outdoor Dining Areas ordinance forward for formal consideration. If Council reaches consensus, staff will incorporate any direction provided at the September 14 Study Session and place September 14, 2026 Page 6 first and second readings of the proposed ordinance on future City Council agendas. Key elements of the proposed ordinance include: • Allowing two or more eligible liquor licensees to participate in an approved CODA; • Authorizing administrative review by the City Clerk, with referral to the Administrative Hearing Officer when additional public or discretionary review is warranted; • Requiring a detailed site plan and unified Security and Control Plan; • Establishing minimum insurance requirements for all participating licensees; • Maintaining separate City approval authority over the use of public property and public right-of-way; • Requiring compliance with existing noise, nuisance, accessibility, fire, zoning, building, and other City regulations; • Establishing joint responsibility among participating licensees for CODA operations; and • Providing clear inspection, suspension, revocation, and emergency closure authority when necessary to protect public health, safety, and welfare.