HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-09-2025 City Council Meeting AgendaAGENDA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
Monday, June 9, 2025
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
June 9, 2025)
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 6:00 p.m. on June 9, 2025)
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, May 12, 2025
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
PROCLAMATIONS AND CEREMONIES
Police Recruit Graduation
Proclamation – LGBQTI+ Pride Month
Proclamation – Safety Month
Proclamation – Juneteenth
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. 31-2025 - a resolution amending the 2025 Public Art Fund budget
to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the amount of
$250,000 for the purpose of funding public art associated with the Youngfield
Beautification project
b. Resolution No. 32-2025 - a resolution amending the fiscal year 2025 Open
Space Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget
appropriation in the amount of $254,299 for the purposes of accepting a
Colorado State Forest Service grant in the amount of $380,350
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING
2. Council Bill No. 08-2025 – an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge
Code of Laws regarding freestanding emergency departments
ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING
3. Council Bill No. 11-2025 – an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge
Code of Laws concerning multi-unit residential parking requirements and making
conforming amendments therewith
4. Council Bill No. 12-2025 – an ordinance amending Section 26-502 of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws concerning procedural updates to landscaping requirements
DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS, AND MOTIONS
5. Motion approving the selection of public art titled “Fun, Fun, Fungi” by David
Farquharson of Farhorizon Studios LLC to be installed at the Green at 38th project
site
CITY MANAGER’S MATTERS
CITY ATTORNEY’S MATTERS
ELECTED OFFICIALS’ MATTERS
City Council Meeting Minutes
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
7500 WEST 29TH AVENUE, MUNICIPAL BUILDING
May 12, 2025
Note: This meeting was conducted both as a virtual meeting and hybrid, where some
members of the Council or City staff were physically present at the Municipal building,
and some members of the public attended in person as well. Eight members of Council
were present in Council Chambers for this session. Before calling the meeting to order,
Mayor Starker stated the rules and procedures necessitated by this meeting format.
1. Call to Order
Mayor Starker called the Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
Those present stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
3. Roll Call
Council Members present: Jenny Snell, Scott Ohm, Amanda Weaver, Korey Stites,
Janeece Hoppe, Leah Dozeman and Dan Larson.
Absent: Rachel Hultin
A quorum was established.
Also present: City Manager Patrick Goff; Public Work, City Attorney Gerald Dahl,
Deputy City Manager Allison Scheck, Police Chief Chris Murtha, Community
Development Director Lauren Mikulak, Senior Planner Scott Cutler, and Sr. Deputy City
Clerk Margy Greer
4. Approval of Minutes
Study Session Notes, April 21, 2025
City Council Meeting Minutes, April 28, 2025
Notes and Minutes stood as presented.
5. Approval of Agenda
Without objection or correction, the agenda stood as presented.
6. Proclamations
A. Mayor Starker proclaimed May 2025 as Mental Health Month and
presented the proclamation to Julie DiTullio with the Jefferson Center.
B. Mayor Starker proclaimed the Month of May15, 2025, National Peace
officers Memorial Day and the month in which it follows, National Law Enforcement
Week, He presented the proclamation to Wheat Ridge Officer Brian Cook.
C. Mayor Starker proclaimed the week of May 18-14, 2025, as the 65th
Annual Public Works Week. He presented the proclamation to Director of Public Works
Maria D’Andrea, who in turn introduced some of her employees and thanked them for
their work.
7. Public’s Right to Speak
In Person
Jeff Richards – Resident and Member of the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission spoke
of a $500 grant opportunity to those in the community regarding all types of arts and
cultural projects. He stated the deadline for the grant applications is May 31st.
Wheat Ridge Speaks:
Jennifer Yates 3700 Miller Street Wheat Ridge, 80033
I’m writing as a concerned citizen regarding an incident involving my son in Wheat
Ridge that raises serious questions about how violent crimes are handled in our city. In
January, my son and his friend were followed to a gas station and physically assaulted
by two individuals after flashing their lights at a speeding van in their neighborhood.
Despite video evidence showing clear aggression from the other party—including use of
a weapon that sent my son to the ER with fractures and a scalp injury—the case was
downgraded to disorderly conduct, and the assailants received minimal consequences.
My son and his friend were eventually cleared, but only after months of stress, missed
work, and navigating a justice process that seemed to assume their guilt from the start.
We are grateful to the officers who responded with compassion, but deeply
disappointed by what followed: limited investigation, missing witness follow-up,
unacknowledged video evidence, and a sense that the case was pushed off to county
court to avoid accountability. I ask city officials and law enforcement leadership: Are
serious crimes being downgraded to keep statistics low? Are investigations being
handled thoroughly and impartially? And who is protecting families like mine when the
system doesn’t work as it should? I will email more details so this incident can be looked
at more thoroughly. Thank you
Kelly Blynn
Address - 4175 Brentwood Street Wheat Ridge, 80033
I wanted to submit these comments to support the adoption of this ordinance. While
spurred in part by the 2024 state land use laws, Wheat Ridge has already been strongly
moving in this direction. Wheat Ridge is already close to complying with the ADU law
(as well as parking and occupancy) and only needs to make modest changes to do so.
Wheat Ridge has already enabled homeowners to build ADUs, has lowered parking
requirements for affordable housing, has taken steps to remove occupancy limits based
on family status, and has enabled more density around our transit corridors and
stations. Taking these steps helps Wheat Ridge achieve its goals of becoming a more
walkable, bikeable, sustainable, and affordable city, and is in line with the city's
affordable housing plan, Lutheran plans, and forthcoming city plan. Additionally, taking
these steps will set the city up for additional incentives -- such as the forthcoming grant
program from DOLA that can support permitting fees and other costs for ADUs,
financing programs for ADUs from CHFA, an infrastructure grant program for transit-
oriented communities, and tax credits for affordable housing in transit-oriented
communities. Additionally, the state has signaled it will continue to prioritize jurisdictions
working to support infill and transit-oriented housing through Executive Order D 2023
014. The housing crisis we find ourselves in is regional and statewide. While Wheat
Ridge is showing great leadership on this issue, ultimately we can’t solve it on our own.
By continuing to be a leader, we can help ensure that others follow, and create a
greater impact. Thank you for the opportunity to comment, and for doing what you do!
8. CONSENT AGENDA
Council Member Larson read the Consent Agenda, which consists of Items 8a through
8f, inclusive, as well as the accompanying Issue Statements into the record.
a. Motion awarding a contract to Essential Contractors Inc. in the amount of
$300,371 with a contingency amount of $30,037 for a total approved amount of
$330,408 to construct the Miller Street Storm Water Improvements project
Issue Statement: Ten (10) bids were received in response to the city’s Invitation for Bids
to construct the Miller Street Storm Sewer Improvements Project. The lowest responsive
bidder was Essential Contractors Inc. It is recommended that the city enter a contract
with Essential Contractors Inc. to perform the storm sewer main replacement along
Miller Street from 32nd Avenue to 35th Avenue.
b. Motion to approve payment to Bank of Oklahoma for 2025 principal and interest
payments in the amount of $5,041,154.16 for the City of Wheat Ridge Colorado
Sales and Use Tax Revenue Bonds, series 2024
Issue Statement: On October 24, 2024, the city closed on Series 2024 Sales and Use
Tax Revenue Bonds in the par amount of $34,845,000 with a net premium of
$3,856,048 for a total of $38,701,048. After cost of issuance and the refunding of the
2017A Bond Series, the City received a total of $33,345,000 in project funds. The City’s
first interest payment for 2025 is due June 1, 2025, in the amount of $1,055,029.16, and
the first principal and second interest payment are due December 1, 2025, in the
amount of $3,986,125. Funds to cover the 2025 payments are budgeted in the 2025 2J
Bond Fund budget.
c. Motion awarding a contract to Brannan Sand & Gravel in the amount of
$1,737,966.62 with a contingency amount of $173,797 for a total approved
amount of $1,911,763.62 for the 2025 Residential Streets Program
Issue Statement: Five (5) bids were received in response to the city’s Invitation for Bids
to complete the 2025 Residential Streets Program project. The lowest responsive is
Brannan Sand & Gravel. It is recommended that the city enter into a contract with
Brannan Sand & Gravel to perform the work for the 2025 Residential Streets Program.
d. Resolution No. 26-2025 – a resolution of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
approving the Second Amended and Restated Intergovernmental Agreement for
the use and maintenance of a Regional Criminal Justice Records Management
System
Issue Statement: The City of Wheat Ridge Police Department is a member of the
Records Management System Consortium (RMSC) along with Arvada, Edgewater,
Golden, Lakewood and the Town of Mountain View. This regional consortium allows for
effective and efficient criminal records management beyond what the Wheat Ridge
Police Department could provide on its own.
e. Resolution No. 27-2025 – a resolution of the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado
approving a Law Enforcement Recruit Training Agreement
Issue Statement: The Wheat Ridge Police Department requests approval to enter into an
agreement with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Lakewood Police
Department Combined Regional Academy.
The cost for the academy class will be outlined in Exhibit A and based on the number of
recruits attending, as agreed upon by the recruit’s sponsoring agency and the combined
regional academy before each class.
f. Resolution No. 28-2025 – a resolution authorizing a Building Lease Agreement
between the City of Wheat Ridge and Wheat Ridge 2020, Inc. d/b/a Localworks
for 9110 West 44th Avenue
Issue Statement: The city entered into a 5-year lease agreement with Localworks, effective
March 2, 2023, for the purposes of establishing the Clear Creek Makerspace (CCM) at a city
owned building located at 9110 West 44th Avenue. Localworks is seeking grant funding to
expand the operations of the CCM. Grantors have recommended that Localworks seek an
extension of their lease to be more competitive for funding. Localworks is requesting an
extension of their lease with the city to May 12, 2035.
Council Member Larson made a motion to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented into
the Record. It was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Stites.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nayes. The motion carried.
PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING
9. Council Bill No. 07-2025 – an ordinance amending the Wheat Ridge Code of
Laws concerning membership of the Urban Renewal Authority
Council Member Hoppe read the Bill Title and Issue Statement into the Record.
Issue Statement: In 2015, the Colorado Legislature passed HB15-1348 amending the
urban renewal statute requiring certain processes occur upon the adoption of a new
plan area or a substantial modification to an existing plan. One requirement is the
addition of new board members representing the affected tax entities. This expands the
Wheat Ridge Urban Renewal Authority, dba Renewal Wheat Ridge, membership to
thirteen. This ordinance will amend the current code section in the Wheat Ridge Code
of Laws to provide for the new members.
Council Member Hoppe made a motion to approve council bill number 07-2025 – an
ordinance amending the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning membership of the
Urban Renewal Authority on second reading, order it published, and that it takes effect
immediately. It was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Stites.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
10. Council Bill No. 09-2025 – an ordinance amending Section 26-646 of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws regarding Accessory Dwelling Units and making conforming
amendments therewith
Council Member Ohm read the Bill Title and Issue Statement into the Record.
Issue Statement: This ordinance amends Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws
to update Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) requirements to comply with state legislation
and recent policy direction from City Council.
There was a presentation by Director of Community Development Lauren Mikulak and
Senior Planner Scott Cutler.
Council Member Ohm made a motion to approve Council Bill No. 09-2025, an ordinance
amending Section 26-646 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws regarding Accessory
Dwelling Units and making conforming amendments therewith, on second reading,
order it published, and that it takes effect fifteen days after final publication. It was
seconded by Council Member Hoppe.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
Council Member Hoppe made a motion that in the event the statute adopted by House
Bill 24-1152 concerning Accessory Dwelling Units is repealed by the state legislature or
held unconstitutional by the Colorado Supreme Court, in whole or in part, that City staff
is directed to schedule a Council study session to consider whether the Council should
amend or repeal this Ordinance. It was seconded by Council Member Weaver.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
11. Council Bill No. 10-2025 – an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws regarding Residential Occupancy Limits and making conforming
amendments therewith
Council Member Dozeman read the Title of the Bill and Issue Statement into the
Record.
Issue Statement: This ordinance amends Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws
to update residential occupancy limits to comply with a recent update to the City
Charter and state legislation.
Community Development Director Lauren Mikulak and Senior Planner Scott Cutler gave
a presentation on the issue.
After Council discussion, Council Member Dozeman made a motion to approve Council
Bill No. 10-2025, an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws
regarding residential occupancy limits and making conforming amendments therewith,
on second reading, order it published, and that it takes effect fifteen (15) days after final
publication. It was seconded by Council Member Weaver.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING
12. Council Bill No. 08-2025 – an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws regarding Freestanding Emergency Departments
Council Member Ohm made a motion to approve Council Bill No. 08-2025, an ordinance
amending Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws regarding Freestanding
Emergency Departments on first reading, order it published, the public hearing set for
Monday, June 9, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers,
and that it takes effect fifteen (15) days after final publication. It was seconded by
Council Member Hoppe.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
DECISIONS, RESOLUTIONS, AND MOTIONS
13. Motion approving a Termination Agreement, and a Funding Agreement related to
the sale of Fruitdale School Lofts
Council Member Larson read the Item and Issue Statement into the Record.
Issue Statement: Fruitdale School Partners LLC intends to sell the Fruitdale School
Lofts property to Foothills Regional Housing. The purpose of the sale is to ensure the
long-term affordability of the 16 dwelling units. To facilitate the sale, certain
agreements need to be in place to terminate the prior development agreement and to
establish the financial obligations for the proposed sale.
After discussion amongst Council, Council Member Larson made a motion to Approve a
Termination Agreement and a funding agreement related to the sale of Fruitdale School
Lofts and authorize the Mayor, City Clerk, and City Manager to execute the same and
such additional documents as necessary to implement those agreements, all in the form
as approved by the City Attorney. It was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Stites.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
14. Motion to adopt the Stormwater Master Plan
Council Member Snell read the item and the Issue Statement into the Record.
Issue Statement: In 2024, the city undertook completion of a Stormwater Master Plan.
The Plan outlines various capital projects that will prevent flooding of private property.
The goals of the Plan included establishing a baseline hydrologic study and providing
solutions that addressed existing stormwater issues. In addition, costs to maintain the
existing system along with the cost of various operational needs results in a
comprehensive Stormwater Program for possible implementation over the next 10-year
period.
Council Member Snell made a motion to adopt the Stormwater Master Plan. It was
seconded by Council Member Hoppe.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
15. Resolution No. 29-2025 – a resolution approving the revised Procurement
Policy and Guidelines including increased procurement limits, thresholds, and
authorities and rescinding Resolution No. 30-2017 in conflict therewith
Council Member Dozeman read the item and the Issue Statement into the Record.
Issue Statement: The City of Wheat Ridge’s procurement program supports
departments across the City by ensuring millions of dollars in project, supplier and
contractor spending is properly solicited and reported, and that best value is achieved.
Staff is working to implement software improvements to streamline and modernize this
program. In preparation for these changes, staff has revised the existing procurement
policy to provide increased clarity, improved procedures, increased thresholds to
streamline the process, and additional information about legal and ethical
requirements.
Council Member Dozeman made a motion to adopt Resolution 29-2025, a resolution
approving the revised Procurement Policy and Guidelines including increased
procurement limits, thresholds and authorities and rescinding Resolution 30-2017 in
conflict therewith. It was seconded by Council Member Ohm.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
16. Resolution No. 30-2025 – a resolution approving amendment number 4 to the
contract with The Colorado Department of Transportation for the Improve Wadsworth
project
Council Member Weaver read the Title of the Resolution and Issue Statement into the
Record.
Issue Statement: The original completion date for the Improve Wadsworth Project was
established in the original contract between the city and the Colorado Department of
Transportation (CDOT) as October 25, 2025. Construction is currently on-going with
substantial completion expected by the end of 2025. Final completion is expected in the
spring of 2026. As the project will not be complete by the contract date, it is necessary
to extend the contract completion date to October 25, 2030, to ensure that adequate
time is provided for project closeout.
Director of Public Works D’Andrea stated that while the new completion date is 2030,
that the construction project will be completed in the Spring of 2026. The CDOT, FHA,
and other sources paperwork will not be completed until 2030. In answer to a question
from Council Member Ohm, D’Andrea stated that the warranty period is one year from
date of substantial completion.
Council Member Weaver made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 30-2025, a resolution
approving Amendment No. 4 to the contract with the Colorado Department of
Transportation for the Improve Wadsworth Project. It was seconded by Council Member
Hoppe.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
17. Resolution No. 31-2025 – a resolution approving an Intergovernmental
Agreement between Jefferson County R-1 School District and the City of Wheat Ridge
for the School Resource Officer Program
Mayor Pro Tem Stites read the Title of the Resolution and the issue Statement into the
Record.
Issue Statement: The Wheat Ridge Police Department and the Jefferson County R-1
School District have worked together for several years and participated in the School
Resource Officer Program. The primary mission of the School Resource Officer
Program is to provide formal instruction, informal consultation and mediation,
enforcement, and problem solving for the school communities. A formal, written,
intergovernmental agreement between the City and the District concerning School
Resource Officers has been in place for over ten (10) years. The District has requested
the intergovernmental agreement be reviewed and re-accomplished.
As part of the Police Department’s commitment to national accreditation, an
intergovernmental agreement between the District and the City is required by the
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. The attached
intergovernmental agreement is similar to formal written agreements established
between other national accredited police departments and public-school districts.
Mayor Pro Tem Stites made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 31-2025 – a resolution
approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between Jefferson County R-1 School
District and the City of Wheat Ridge for the School Resource Officer Program. It was
seconded by Council Member Ohm.
Vote: 7 Ayes. 0 Nays. The motion carried.
18. City Manager’s Matters
City Manager Patrick Goff reported that Foothills Regional Housing received a tax credit
award from CHFA for Phase II of the Ives affordable housing project. Demolition of the
former Bank of the West building and construction of Phase II will likely start this fall.
The project consists of 98-, 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments with onsite services.
He also reported that while Uncle Julio's Hacienda Colorado closed several weeks ago,
he spoke to the property owner, and they have solid interest from at least three
restaurants to backfill the space.
Police Chief Chris Murtha gave Council an update on the photo radar program.
19. City Attorney’s Matters
None.
20. Elected Official’s Matters
Mayor and City Council Members stated their pride in the City, thanked staff for their
hard work, and reported on events and activities they attended over the past weeks.
21. Adjournment
There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Starker adjourned the
meeting at 8:36 p.m.
_________________________________
Margy Greer, Sr. Deputy City Clerk
_________________________________
Korey Stites, Mayor Pro Tem
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL LGBTQI+ PRIDE MONTH
JUNE 2025
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge cherishes the value and dignity of each person and appreciates the
importance of equality and freedom; and
WHEREAS, all are welcome in the City of Wheat Ridge to live, work, play, and every family deserves a
place to call home where they feel safe, happy, and supported by friends and neighbors; and
WHEREAS, the City denounces prejudice and unfair discrimination based on age, gender identity,
gender expression, race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, or physical attributes
as an affront to our fundamental principles; and
WHEREAS, during Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex (LGBTQI+) Pride Month, we
reflect on the progress we have made as a nation in the fight for justice, inclusion, and equality while
reaffirming our commitment to do more to support LGBTQI+ rights; and
WHEREAS, today, the rights of LGBTQI+ Americans are under relentless attack and many of these
individuals continue to face discrimination and cruel, persistent efforts to undermine their human rights; and
WHEREAS, despite being marginalized, LGBTQI+ people continue to celebrate authenticity, acceptance,
and love; and
WHEREAS, we appreciate the cultural, civic, and economic contributions of the LGBTQI+ community
which strengthen our social welfare.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Bud Starker, Mayor of the City of Wheat Ridge, and the Wheat
Ridge City Council do hereby declare the month of June 2025 as
LGBTQI+ PRIDE MONTH
Margy Greer, Sr. Deputy City Clerk Bud Starker, Mayor
PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH
JUNE 2025
WHEREAS, National Safety Month focuses on reducing the leading causes of injury and death at work,
on the roads and in our homes and communities and drawing attention to safe practices that will decrease the
likelihood of accidents; and
WHEREAS, all community members deserve to live in communities that promote safe and healthy living
environments; and
WHEREAS, safe communities require the cooperation of all levels of government, business, and
industry employees, as well as the public; and
WHEREAS, through the support and observance of National Safety Month each year, employers are
helping to reverse an increase in accidental injuries and deaths in the workplace; and
WHEREAS, the City supports safety efforts and has taken a pro-active stance in providing a safe and
healthy work environment for its employees by supporting the BESAFE Safety Committee; and
WHEREAS, the City works to prevent accidental injuries by educating employees about safe and healthy
practices in the workplace through training and encouragement; and
WHEREAS, the beginning of the summer season, traditionally a time of increased accidents and
injuries, is an appropriate time to focus attention on risk management and prevention.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Bud Starker, Mayor of the City of Wheat Ridge, and the Wheat
Ridge City Council do hereby declare the month of June 2025, as
NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH
and urge all community members to establish and maintain safe practices in their homes, workplaces, and
communities
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, On this 9th day of June 2025.
Margy Greer, Sr. Deputy City Clerk Bud Starker, Mayor
PROCLAMATION
JUNETEENTH
JUNE 19, 2025
WHEREAS, this nation was founded on the principle stated in the Declaration of Independence that “all
men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among
these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” but in which people who were Black were held in slavery;
and
WHEREAS, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863,
which states that all persons held as slaves within a state or designated part of a state “shall be then,
thenceforward, forever free”, changing the legal status of 3.5 million enslaved people who were Black from
slave to free; and
WHEREAS, the Emancipation Proclamation paved the way for the 13th Amendment to the Constitution
of the United States, which formally abolished slavery in the United States of America; and
WHEREAS, news of the Emancipation Proclamation did not reach the most distant slave states until
federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, to take control of the state and ensure that all
enslaved people be freed; and
WHEREAS, the day of respect and remembrance called “Juneteenth”, a combination of the words
“June” and “nineteenth”, is observed as an important day in our nation’s history; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and serves as a reminder of the
inequities faced by Black people throughout our nation’s history.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that I, Bud Starker, Mayor of the City of Wheat Ridge, and the Wheat
Ridge City Council call upon the City of Wheat Ridge, to join us in recognizing
JUNETEENTH
and I call on every person to celebrate Juneteenth and recommit to working together to eradicate systemic
racism and inequity in our society wherever they find it.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, On this 9th day of June 2025.
Margy Greer, Sr. Deputy City Clerk Bud Starker, Mayor
ITEM NUMBER: 1a
DATE: JUNE 9, 2025
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
RESOLUTION NO. 31-2025
TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2025 PUBLIC ART FUND
BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL
BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $250,000
FOR THE PURPOSE OF FUNDING PUBLIC ART ASSOCIATED
WITH THE YOUNGFIELD BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT
☐PUBLIC HEARING
☐BIDS/MOTIONS
☒RESOLUTIONS
☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING
☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING
QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO
ISSUE:
The public art associated with the Youngfield Beautification project was budgeted in the
Public Art Fund in 2024. Because a contract was not awarded until 2025, the funds were
not carried forward into the 2025 budget. This resolution will amend the 2025 Public Art
Fund budget to fund this project as planned.
PRIOR ACTION:
The public art selection committee associated with the Youngfield Beautification
project has selected an artist team to present to the Cultural Commission and City
Council for approval.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The funds for this project were budgeted in the 2024 Public Art Fund budget but were
never captured on a purchase order because a contract was not awarded in 2024. As a
result, these funds returned to the fund balance and were not carried over to the 2025
budget. There is no additional or unexpected financial impact.
BACKGROUND:
The Youngfield Street Beautification project will identify and implement aesthetic
improvements along Youngfield Street between 30th and 40th Avenues, focusing on the
area between Youngfield Street and I-70. Aesthetic improvements will offer a
welcoming gateway to the City of Wheat Ridge, beautify the corridor, and create spaces
that will not only reflect community values but will also instill pride in the city.
Council Action Form – Fund 12 Budget Supplemental for Youngfield Art
June 9, 2025
Page 2
In October of 2011, through Ordinance 1502, it was established that 1% of the budget of
City and State of Colorado capital construction projects of $50,000 or more shall fund
public art. As per this directive, funds were budgeted in 2024 for the Youngfield
Beautification project. Because the funds weren’t utilized in 2024, this resolution will
allow for the funds to be included in the 2025 budget to allow for the art selection and
installment to move forward.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends the approval of this resolution to properly account for the Youngfield
Beautification public art project that was budgeted in 2024.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Resolution No. 31-2025, a resolution amending the 2025 Public Art
Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation in the
amount of $250,000 for the purpose of funding public art associated with the
Youngfield Beautification project.”
Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 31-2025, a resolution amending the
2025 Public Art Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget
appropriation in the amount of $250,000 for the purpose of funding public art
associated with the Youngfield Beautification project for the following reason(s).”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Karen O’Donnell, Director of Parks & Recreation
Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution No. 31-2025
ATTACHMENT 1
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
RESOLUTION NO. 31
SERIES OF 2025
TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2025 PUBLIC ART FUND
BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL
BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $250,000 FOR THE
PURPOSE OF FUNDING PUBLIC ART ASSOCIATED WITH THE
YOUNGFIELD BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT
WHEREAS, the Wheat Ridge Charter requires that amendments to the budget be
effected by the City Council adopting a resolution; and
WHEREAS, Wheat Ridge City Council previously approved the 2025 Public Art Fund
(Fund 12) budget; and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. 1502-2011 established that 1% of the budget of City and
State of Colorado capital construction projects of $50,000 or more shall support the
Public Art Fund; and
WHEREAS, the Youngfield Beautification public art project was included in the
2024 Public Art Fund (Fund 12) budget, but the funds were not carried over to the 2025
budget.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO THAT:
Section 1. A supplemental budget appropriation of $250,000 is hereby
approved from Public Art Fund (Fund 12) undesignated reserves to account No. 12-601-
800-816 for the purpose of budgeting the Youngfield Beautification public art project.
DONE AND RESOLVED this 9th day of June 2025.
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTACHMENT 1
[SEAL]
ATTEST:
Margy Greer, Sr. Deputy City Clerk
ITEM NUMBER: 1b
DATE: June 9, 2025
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
RESOLUTION No. 32-2025
TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 OPEN
SPACE FUND BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A
SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE
AMOUNT OF $254,299 FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACCEPTING A
COLORADO STATE FOREST SERVICE GRANT IN THE
AMOUNT OF $380,350
☐PUBLIC HEARING
☐BIDS/MOTIONS
☒RESOLUTIONS
☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING
☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING
QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO
ISSUE:
The Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) awarded the City a reimbursement grant of
$380,350 for forestry work through October 31, 2025. To invest the funding, and
subsequently request and receive reimbursement, this budget appropriation is required.
PRIOR ACTION:
CSFS made this funding available to the City due to the USDA terminating an Urban and
Community Forestry grant on April 4, 2025, that the City had previously been awarded
through the Urban Sustainability Director’s Network (USDN). Council was informed of
this grant termination via an email from Director O’Donnell.
Council passed Resolution No. 13-2024 on March 25, 2024, authorizing a supplemental
budget appropriation for 2024 and authorizing the Mayor to sign the grant agreement
with the USDN. This CSFS funding is for the same scope of work as the original USDN
pass-through grant to the City.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The City’s Forest Improvement account (32-601-800-867) within the Open Space Fund
would be increased by $254,299 for 2025. This amount includes the $380,350 in
reimbursement funds from the CSFS and accounts for the approved 2025 spending
through from the original USDN pass-through grant. The City will be able to request
Council Action Form – CSFS Grant Supplemental Budget Appropriation
June 9, 2025
reimbursement from the CSFS monthly for approved spending through October 2025.
BACKGROUND:
In 2023, the City applied for, and was awarded, $669,073 in federal Urban and
Community Forestry funding as a pass-through partner of the Urban Sustainability
Directors’ Network (USDN). The funding was to be paid as advance payment funds in
three even payments in 2024, 2025, and 2026, assuming the City met its deliverables
over the 4-year project period (2024-2027).
The City received its initial advance payment of $223,024 in spring 2024. Through April
3, 2025, the City invested $135,051.68 of that advance payment with another $55,030
encumbered for contracts with the Mile High Youth Corps (for three weeks of planting
work) and PlanItGeo (for their TreePlotter inventory program). On April 4, 2025, the City
learned that the USDA had terminated their grant agreement with the USDN, which
resulted in the City’s grant agreement with USDN being terminated and all investment
halted.
As of May 23, 2025, the USDA has not informed the USDN or the City as to what will be
required of the remaining advance-payment funds that had not been spent as of April 4t,
2025.
The CSFS, which serves as Colorado’s state forestry agency, was also awarded federal
grant funding through the same USDA Urban and Community Forestry grant program
that the City was awarded funding through. CSFS funding, along with all other “direct to
state” funding, has not yet been terminated. CSFS reached out to local governments
who had their USDA forestry grants terminated and offered to provide their funding as
grants to the local governments so the planned forestry work could continue.
City staff put together the enclosed 2025 forestry improvement budget to maximize the
realistic speed and level of investment to maximize the value of the CSFS funding,
which is only available through October 31, 2025. This budget represents all planned
2025 forestry improvement work and certain work that was originally planned for 2026.
There is a possibility that the CSFS funding will also be terminated by the USDA at
some point, but the CSFS is hoping that does not happen.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommend passing this Resolution to increase the 2025 Forest Improvements
budget to invest funding from the CSFS.
The alternative is to not accept the grant funding and cancel the planned forestry
improvement work in 2025.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Resolution No. 32-2025, a resolution amending the fiscal year 2025
Open Space Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental budget appropriation
Council Action Form – CSFS Grant Supplemental Budget Appropriation
June 9, 2025
in the amount of $254,299 for the purpose of accepting a Colorado State Forest Service
grant in the amount of $380,350.”
Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Resolution No. 32-2025, a resolution amending the
fiscal year 2025 Open Space Fund budget to reflect the approval of a supplemental
budget appropriation in the amount of $254,299 for the purpose of accepting a
Colorado State Forest Service grant in the amount of $380,350 for the following
reason(s).”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Brandon Altenburg, Grant and Special Project Administrator
Reed Smythe, Accounting Supervisor
Karen O’Donnell, Parks and Recreation Director
Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution No. 32-2025 Colorado State Forest Service Grant Budget
Appropriation
2. CSFS 2025 Award Letter
3. CSFS Agreement Form
4. CSFS Scope of Work
5. CSFS Project Budget
ATTACHMENT 1
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
RESOLUTION NO. 32
SERIES OF 2025
TITLE: A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2025 OPEN
SPACE FUND BUDGET TO REFLECT THE APPROVAL OF A
SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF
$254,299 FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACCEPTING A COLORADO STATE
FOREST SERVICE GRANT IN THE AMOUNT OF $380,350
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado (the “City”) is interested in
maintaining, expanding, and improving its urban tree canopy; and
WHEREAS, the Colorado State Forest Service awarded a $380,350 reimbursement
grant to the City for specific forestry work in 2025; and
WHEREAS, the grant revenue will be deposited into the Open Space (Fund 32)
budget, and a $254,299 budget appropriation is needed to make the funds available for
related expenses in 2025.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO THAT:
Section 1. A supplemental budget appropriation is approved from Open Space
Fund undesignated reserves to account No. 32-601-800-867 and revenues are
adjusted accordingly.
Section 2. 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.
Section 3. Nothing contained in this Resolution, or the Assignment 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
DONE AND RESOLVED this 9th day of June 2025
[SEAL]
ATTEST:
Margy Greer, Sr. Deputy City Clerk
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTACHMENT 2
5060 Campus Delivery
Fort Collins, CO 80523-5060
(970)491-6303
5/5/2025
City of Wheat Ridge,
Dear Brandon Altenburg,
I am pleased to inform you that your application for the 2025 UCF City of Wheat Ridge Forestry
Project has been approved for funding in the amount of $380,350.60.
To accept this award please review the attached Project Award Notification and Scope of Work.
If you agree with the requirements of the grant, please complete, sign, and date the Project
Award Notification and initial and date the Scope of Work where indicated. The Budget and
Budget Justification Form (Attachment B) also needs to be completed and initialed. Be sure to
retain copies for your records.
Project work may not begin until grant recipients have signed the official Project Award
Notification and initialed the final SOW and returned it to the Program Specialist. Please note
that any efforts, activities, or expenses that occur prior to the official award notification will not
be eligible for reimbursement or match.
Please email a signed copy of the documents no later than 5/7/2025 to Carrie Tomlinson, UCF
Manager CSFS and copy csfs_grants@mail.colostate.edu.
Reimbursement procedures and cost documentation requirements are described in the Project
Award Notification.
Projects must be completed and certified by your CSFS Supervisory Forester no later than the
close of business on October 31th, 2026. Your CSFS Forester is Val Nache, who can be reached
at 303-548-9820 or email Valerie.Nache@colostate.edu. The final reimbursement request with
your signature and cost documentation must be received by the CSFS Supervisory Forester no
later than DATE November 30th, 2026.
Please acknowledge the CSFS UCF GRANTS and the Colorado State Forest Service as the funding
source for this project in any outreach or media inquiries. Email Kristy.Burnett@colostate.edu
with any questions about media or outreach or to obtain the CSFS logo.
Thank you for your interest in creating resilient forests and communities!
ATTACHMENT 2
Sincerely,
Carrie Tomlinson, UCF Manager
Attachments: Project Award Notification
Attachment A, Scope of Work
Attachment B, Budget Justification
CC: Valerie Nache, UCF Specialist Eastern Plains
Britta Mireley, CSFS Grants Specialist
CSFS Revised: 12.09.24; Approved by General Counsel 01.09.25 (do not modify except where noted) 1
ATTACHMENT 3
Colorado State Forest Service
Financial Assistance Program
Project Award Notification Agreement
Project Name Expanding the Urban Tree Canopy in Wheat Ridge
Project Number NA
Award Recipient Name City of Wheat Ridge
CSFS Account Number 5330651
CSFS Account Title 2023 Inflation Reduction Act Urban and Community Forestry
Federal Award Identification Number 24-DG-11021600-009
Assistance Listing Number (ALN) and
Name
10.727 IRA Urban & Community Forestry
Estimated Total Project Cost $380,350.60
Award Amount $380,350.60
Minimum Recipient Match Required $0.00
Award Start Date 04/29/2025
Award End Date 10/31/2026
Federal Funds YES
State Funds NO
Other Funds NO
Match Funds $0.
Based on the strength of the application submitted, the Colorado State Forest Service (hereinafter referred to as
“CSFS”) is providing funding in the amount up to, but not exceeding, $380,350.60 to accomplish the project
described in Attachment A (Scope of Work).
The recipient, City of Wheat Ridge (hereinafter referred to as “Award Recipient”), will be reimbursed for allowable
costs incurred in implementing the project up to the amount listed above, once the following requirements are
met:
A.SCOPE OF WORK
Complete work as described in Attachment A (Scope of Work) which includes following Forestry Best
Management Practices to Protect Water Quality in Colorado.
B.EXPENSE DOCUMENTATION
Reimbursable Expenses
•Expenses incurred prior to the 4/29/2025 are not eligible for reimbursement or match.
•Provide documentation that project funds have been matched at a minimum of $0.00.
•Only actual recipient costs that support accomplishing Attachment A (Scope of Work) are eligible for
reimbursement. Non-recipient costs may be used as match. Non-recipients are third party participants
(contributors other than the award recipient) supporting the implementation of the project.
•Grant funds may not be used to purchase capital equipment unless the equipment was approved and
described in Attachment A (Scope of Work). Equipment means tangible personal property (including
information technology systems) having a useful life of more than one year and a per-unit acquisition
cost which equals or exceeds $5,000. Tangible supplies under $5,000 that contribute to accomplishing
work described in Attachment A (Scope of Work) are allowable, if pre-approved and described.
CSFS Revised: 12.09.24; Approved by General Counsel 01.09.25 (do not modify except where noted) 2
ATTACHMENT 3
•Reimbursements will only be made to the original award recipient. If the award recipient chooses to
pass funds to individual landowners or partners contributing to the project, it is the responsibility of
the award recipient to properly document expenses and match contributions and provide sufficient
backup documentations according to the “Expense Guidance” tab located in the enclosed CSFS Grant
Reimbursement Package.
Match Expenses
•Grant funds cannot be used for homeowner labor, volunteer labor, personnel coordination or grant
administration, however, these activities are valuable and can be considered as match.
•In-kind activities must be documented on the current “CSFS In-Kind Cost Documentation Form”,
located in the enclosed CSFS Grant Reimbursement Package, using the current volunteer rate at the
time work was completed. Grant recipients may use a spreadsheet to track hours, however, the
information must also be summarized in the “CSFS In-Kind Cost Documentation Form”.
•In instances where there are multiple landowners involved with providing in-kind services,
documentation of those volunteer hours must be documented in the current CSFS In-Kind
Documentation Form for each landowner involved with the project by first and last name.
Indirect Expenses
•Indirect cost rate: The Award Recipient may request up to 15% de minimis indirect cost rate.
Documentation is not required for reimbursement.
•Indirect costs include a wide variety of items not specifically broken out in the budget known as
facilities and administrative costs (utilities, phone, copying, accounts payable, payroll, purchasing
agent’s time, and routine administrative services). Indirect costs paid by the grant may not exceed 15%
of the grant total. Additional indirect costs (beyond 15%) may be used as cash match but must be
documented with an established rate.
Reimbursement Submission
•Documentation supporting costs and match must be submitted through the UCF Forester for
reimbursement. Documentation for all expenses (actual costs and values of items that are not out-of-
pocket expenses) and match is required. Follow the guidelines in the “Expense Guidance” tab located
in the enclosed CSFS Grant Reimbursement Package.
•Project work will be inspected by the assigned CSFS Field Office to certify the work meets the
requirements described in Attachment A (Scope of Work). Once all documentation is complete, the
assigned CSFS Supervisory Forester will electronically sign the Signature Page with eSig to certify the
work, and that costs/match are allowable.
•The local CSFS Field Office is responsible for completing the CSFS Grant Reimbursement Package with
documentation provided by the award recipient.
C.PROJECT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
•Grant recipients are required to submit spatial map data (e.g., shapefiles) with each reimbursement
request, indicating the completed project work. Reimbursement requests submitted without
appropriate spatial map data will not be approved.
•A final report will be required at the completion of the project, which includes the following
information: number of trees planted, trees inventoried, and trees maintained. Final reimbursement
requests that are received without this final report will not be approved.
D.RECORD RETENTION/DATA SHARING
At all times during and following the Term of this Agreement, including any extensions or renewals hereof, all
records, information and data collected or developed during the performance of the Agreement, and any
information provided to CSFS by grant recipient as Licensor or developed during the performance of the
Agreement shall be owned and retained by CSFS for academic and research purposes, which may include
CSFS Revised: 12.09.24; Approved by General Counsel 01.09.25 (do not modify except where noted) 3
ATTACHMENT 3
sharing information with CSFS affiliates. Any publishing or information made available to the public will not
include personal information of Licensor. Upon request, Licensor may request the removal of Licensor’s
information or property information on any publishing or information available to the public, and, if feasible,
CSFS shall remove such requested information.
E.NEW! COST SHARING
CSFS grant awardees have the option to use awarded funds for other cost share/match obligations, however, if
the awardee will not be using this award for other cost-share/match obligations, CSFS will use it to offset CSFS
cost share obligations for other grant programs. Details regarding Cost Sharing are outlined in §2 CFR 200.306.
Please check the appropriate box below to indicate if you plan to use these awarded funds for your own cost
share/match obligations or if you would like to release these awarded funds for CSFS cost-share use. Please
contact the CSFS Grants Team at csfs_grants@colostate.edu as soon as possible if you have questions
regarding cost sharing.
x Awardee agrees to release the use of these awarded funds for CSFS cost share purposes and will not
use these funds for any other cost share/match obligations.
Awardee does not agree to release the use of these awarded funds for CSFS cost-share purposes and
plans to use these funds for awardees other cost-share/match obligations.
F.RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
This federal agreement is not for research and development purposes.
G.EXTENSION
This funding may be extended at the discretion of the CSFS Program Specialist. Requests for extensions must
be made in writing at least 90 days before the award end date. Requests must be sent to the local CSFS
Supervisory Forester and include: 1) why an extension is needed; 2) new timeline for completion, and 3)
changes to the Scope of Work (deliverables), if applicable. The CSFS Field Office will review and forward to the
appropriate Program Specialist for approval. Approvals will be given in writing to the award recipient.
H.TERMINATION
Either Party may terminate this Agreement, without cause, upon not less than sixty (60) days' written notice,
given in accordance with the Notice provisions of this Agreement. Termination of this Agreement shall not
relieve a Party from its obligations incurred prior to the termination date. Upon termination of this Agreement
by CSFS, except in the case of a material breach by CSFS, CSFS shall pay all costs accrued by the Award
Recipient as of the date of termination including non-cancelable obligations for the term of this Agreement,
which shall include all appointments of staff incurred prior to the effective date of the termination. Award
Recipient shall take steps to limit or terminate any outstanding financial commitments for which CSFS is to be
liable. Award Recipient shall furnish, within ninety (90) days of the effective termination date, a final report of
all costs incurred, and all funds received and shall reimburse CSFS for payments which may have been
advanced in excess of total costs incurred with no further obligations to Sponsor.
I.NOTICES
All notices and other correspondence related to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be effective when
delivered by: (i) certified mail with return receipt, (ii) hand delivery with signature or delivery receipt provided
by a third Party courier service (such as FedEx, UPS, etc.), (iii) fax transmission if verification of receipt is
obtained, or (iv) email with return receipt, to the designated representative of the Party as indicated below. A
Party may change its designated representative for notice purposes at any time by written notice to the other
Party. The initial representatives of the Parties are as follows:
CSFS Revised: 12.09.24; Approved by General Counsel 01.09.25 (do not modify except where noted) 4
ATTACHMENT 3
CSFS Program Specialist: Award Recipient:
Name
Title
Colorado State Forest Service
5060 Campus Delivery, CSU
Fort Collins, CO 80523-5060
Phone:
Email:
For Formal Agreement Changes (amendments,
terminations), send a copy to:
Office of the General Counsel
06 Campus Delivery
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO 80523-0006
contracts@colostate.edu
City of Wheat Ridge
Unique Entity ID, if applicable): 84-0595832
Administrative Contact:
Brandon Altenburg
Grant and Special Project Administrator
7490 W. 45th Ave
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: 303-231-1307
Email: baltenburg@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Financial/Payment Contact:
[Brandon Altenburg
Grant and Special Project Administrator
7490 W. 45th Ave
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: 303-231-1307
Email: baltenburg@ci.wheatridge.co.us
J.AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES
City of Wheat Ridge certifies that neither the award recipient nor any principals represented herein are
presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from
participation in this transaction by any federal department or agency.
By signature below, each party certifies that the individuals listed in this document as representatives of the
individual parties authorized to act in their respective areas for matters related to this award. In witness
whereof the parties hereto have executed this award and have read, understand, and agree to the conditions
of participating in this financial assistance program.
Brandon Altenburg 5/9/2025
__________________________________________________________________________________________
AWARD RECEIPIENT SIGNATURE DATE
__________________________________________________________________________________________
CSFS PROGRAM SPECIALIST SIGNATURE DATE
Initials:
__BA_____
Rev. Jan 2024
ATTACHMENT 4
Colorado State Forest Service Financial Assistance Program
Attachment A: Scope of Work
Awardee Name: City of Wheat Ridge
Project Name: Expanding the Urban Tree Canopy in Wheat Ridge
CSFS Account Number: 5330651
Work to be completed/deliverables:
Project Summary
This project will complete the City’s deliverables in the 2025 calendar year from the original IRA
USDA UCF grant, plus as many objectives as are feasible from the 2026 and 2027 calendar years.
Project Objectives
•239 trees planted within the Wadsworth Boulevard construction project.
•95 trees planted within the Youngfield Street beautification project.
•90 trees planted within Phase 2 of the Green at 38th project.
•40 trees planted at Crown Hill Park with Jeffco Open Space.
•Approximately 300 trees planted throughout Wheat Ridge parks, open spaces, and right
of way areas.
•30 trees planted at Fruitdale Park via volunteer event.
•50 trees planted at Crown Hill cemetery in partnership with Wheat Ridge Rotary.
Supplies for expanding the volunteer Tree Stewards program.
•General tree supplies such as: Compost, mycorrhizae, hand tools, tree
stakes/tethers/wraps, water bags, tree storage supplies
•Plant healthcare spray rig
•Signage promoting the forestry investment in our community.
Capacity Building/Prescription
TreePlotter + TreePlotter Canopy software subscription. 3 weeks of Mile High Youth Corps
contractual planting work.
Utilization & Slash Management Plan
N/A
Budget Details
See budget document
Initials:
__BA_____
Rev. Jan 2024
ATTACHMENT 4
Milestone dates:
Project Completion deadline:
October 31st, 2026
Final Report and reimbursement request due to local CSFS Field Office: November 31st, 2026
Standards or Guidelines: Best Management Practices must be followed for all forest
management/fuels mitigation work completed under this award. Refer to the handbook
Forestry Best Management Practices to Protect Water Quality in Colorado for more information.
All work completed under this award must be certified as meeting minimum Colorado State
Forest Service standards prior to any reimbursement being made to the award recipient. CSFS
Grant Reimbursement Request Form Package will be used to both request reimbursement and to
certify that work has been completed to minimum standards.
Supplies
(239)Trees within the Wadsworth Boulevard Project
(95)Trees within the Youngfield Project
(115)Trees within the Green at 38th
(40)Trees at Crown Hill Park
General Tree Plantings (500 total) in Wheat Ridge Parks, Open Spaces, and ROW
(30)Trees at Fruitdale Park for Arbor Day/Earth Day Tree Planting Event 2025
Wheat Ridge Rotary Partnership
Supplies for Tree Stewards Program Expansion
Compost
Mycorrhizae
Tools and Supplies: Hand tools, tree stakes, tree tethers, tree wrap, water bags
Power tools: chainsaws, blowers, dingo forestry attachment
Start-Up Nursery Equipment to store/over-winter trees
Water Tank Trailers Outfit for Tree Healthcare Spraying
Signage/Marketing for Project
Contractual
Mile High Youth Corps 10 weeks of Crew Work
TreePlotter + Canopy 2025-2026 Prepay Costs
Personnel
Additional Seasonal Forestry Personnel for 2025
Other (sub-
grants only)
Total Direct
Costs:
Expanding the Urban Tree Canopy in Wheat Rid
Original Total USDA
Funds (requested)
2025 Projected Spend 2025 Actual Spend
$110,000.00 $110,000.00
$38,000.00 38,000.00$
$41,574.00 28,000.00$
$16,000.00 16,000.00$
$200,000.00 60,000.00$
3,785.60$
7,000.00$
$5,000.00 5,000.00$
$2,000.00 2,000.00$
$4,000.00 4,000.00$
12,000.00$
12,235.00$
2,500.00$
4,800.00$
$10,000.00 10,000.00$
$90,000.00 27,030.00$
$18,000.00 28,000.00$
10,000.00$
380,350.60$
-$
ATTACHMENT 5
dge Proposal Budget
Expenses between 5/7/25 and 10/31/25 can be counted towards this
funding within the line items below
ITEM NUMBER: 2
DATE: June 9, 2025
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
COUNCIL BILL 08-2025
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF
LAWS REGARDING FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS
☒PUBLIC HEARING
☐BIDS/MOTIONS
☐RESOLUTIONS
☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING
☒ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING
QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO
ISSUE:
The City received a request from HCA HealthONE LLC and its affiliate HCA HealthONE
Rose to amend the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to allow for freestanding emergency
departments (FSED) in the city and for the development of a medical campus at the
northwest corner of 38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard.
PRIOR ACTION:
City Council discussed the proposed code amendment at its March 3, 2025, study
session and directed staff to proceed with preparing an ordinance for consideration.
Planning Commission reviewed the ordinance at a public hearing held on April 17, 2025,
and recommended approval by a vote of 5 to 1. The Planning Commission minutes are
included as an attachment.
City Council approved this ordinance on first reading on May 12, 2025. A motion was
made by Councilmember Ohm and seconded by Councilmember Hoppe and was
approved by a vote of 7 to 0.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no direct financial impact to the City in amending the Code to allow for FSED in
the City. If the code is amended, future development could occur with these types of
facilities which would generate development related fees and potential sales tax.
Council Action Form – Freestanding Emergency Departments
June 9, 2025
Page 2
HCA HealthONE has submitted a Letter of Intent to purchase the former Midas property,
at the northwest corner of 38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard, from the City for the
as-is appraised price of $422,500.
BACKGROUND:
HCA HealthONE (the operator of Rose hospital and other metro area facilities) is
proposing a medical campus on property zoned MU-C at the northwest corner of West
38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard. The campus would include medical office uses
as well as a freestanding emergency room facility (also known as a freestanding
emergency department or FSED). HCA HealthONE is under contract to purchase the
vacant Midas building from the City and the surrounding Wilmore Center.
Current Code
The property at W. 38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard is zoned Mixed Use-
Commercial (MU-C) which allows for medical office uses. Based on a prohibition that
dates back to 2015, however, MU-C zoning does not allow for freestanding emergency
rooms (ERs). With the Lutheran hospital’s move to the west side of the city and
regulatory changes impacting FSED, staff believe it is an appropriate time to reevaluate
the prohibition.
In 2015, the term “freestanding emergency room” did not appear in the municipal code.
Related terms in the code included “medical office/clinic” and “hospital,” the latter of
which is defined in the code:
Hospital. An institution providing health services for patients suffering from
illness, disease, injury, deformation and other abnormal physical or mental
conditions, including as an integral part of the institution such related facilities as
inpatient and outpatient care, laboratories, training facilities, central service
facilities and staff offices.
A code interpretation in 2015 determined that freestanding ERs were allowed only
where hospitals were permitted based on ERs being more similar to hospitals than
medical office buildings. This would have permitted a freestanding ER in the MU-C zone
district where hospitals are permitted as conditional uses.
Also in 2015, a zone change application was submitted for a property on Wadsworth
south of 38th Avenue requesting a rezone to MU-C for the purpose of establishing a
freestanding emergency department. The application was denied by the Planning
Commission and withdrawn before going to the City Council.
At the time, freestanding ERs were prevalent in local news because of their rapid
proliferation throughout Colorado and a lack of transparency in billing practices. The
Colorado Legislature was evaluating potential action to protect consumers, and City
Council adopted a series of moratoriums from 2016 to 2018 allowing time to evaluate
the land use and any potential state action.
Council Action Form – Freestanding Emergency Departments
June 9, 2025
Page 3
Council evaluated a range of regulatory approaches, and in 2018 ultimately decided to
create code Section 26-643, defining and prohibiting freestanding emergency rooms
throughout the city. That section reads:
Sec. 26-643. - Freestanding emergency room facilities.
A.For purposes of this section, freestanding emergency room facilities shall mean
and include a medical facility that is not physically attached to a hospital facility
that has the capability of providing medical care and services to patients with
emergency medical conditions in a manner similar to emergency rooms located
within hospitals. Features of a freestanding emergency room facility may include,
but are not limited to, expanded hours of operation, drive-lanes or vehicle bays to
accommodate ambulance arrivals and departures, board-certified emergency
physicians, board-certified emergency nurses, on-site lab and imaging
capabilities and similar equipment, services and treatments not commonly
available in urgent-care facilities.
B.The use of freestanding emergency room facilities, as defined in this section, is
strictly prohibited in all zone districts within the city.
This decision was based in part on the small size of Wheat Ridge and the centrally
located Lutheran Hospital at the former medical campus at 8300 W. 38th Avenue.
Medical uses in the City’s base zone districts are summarized in the table below. The
former and current Lutheran Hospital were both part of planned development zone
districts.
Summary of Medical-Related Uses by Zone District
(P = Permitted, C = Conditional, NP = Not Permitted)
NC RC C-1 C-2 I-E MU-N MU-C MU-C
TOD
MU-C
Int
MU-
LLC
Medical Office P P P P P P P P P Varies
by sub-
district
Hospital NP NP NP NP NP NP C C C NP
Freestanding ER NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP
Proposed Zoning Code Amendment
With changes to state law, the move of Lutheran Hospital, and the request by Rose
Medical; the attached ordinance proposes a new approach to FSED. They could be
allowed and limited through this approach: allowing them as a conditional use in the
MU-C zone district and requiring them to be part of a medical campus of at least 5
acres in size. This approach would limit proliferation of FSED.
To that end, the attached ordinance makes the following changes:
•Updates Section 26-643 (Freestanding Emergency Room Facilities).
•Amends the Table of Uses by zone district to allow FSED as a conditional use
within the MU-C zone district.
Council Action Form – Freestanding Emergency Departments
June 9, 2025
Page 4
•Updates language to the contemporary terminology of “freestanding emergency
department.” This is the term established by the Colorado Legislature when they
enacted mandatory licensure of freestanding ERs through HB19-1010.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve Council Bill No. 08-2025, an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws regarding Freestanding Emergency Departments on second
reading, order it published, and that it takes effect fifteen (15) days after final
publication.”
Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 08-2025, an ordinance amending
Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws regarding Freestanding Emergency
Departments, for the following reason(s): _______________________________________.”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Jana Easley, Planning Manager
Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director
Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1.Council Bill No. 08-2025
2.April 17, 2025, Planning Commission Minutes
ATTACHMENT 1
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER OHM
Council Bill No. 08
Ordinance No. 1821
Series of 2025
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 OF THE WHEAT
RIDGE CODE OF LAWS REGARDING FREESTANDING EMERGENCY
DEPARTMENTS
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. §§ 31-15-501 and 31-23-
301, et seq., 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, pursuant to this authority, the Council previously adopted regulations
concerning freestanding emergency room facilities, codified within Chapter 26 of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (“Code”); and
WHEREAS, City Staff have recommended certain amendments to code section 26-
643 and the table of uses in code section 26-1111 to conditionally allow freestanding
emergency departments in the Mixed Use-Commercial (MU-C) zone district; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds that these amendments are necessary to ensure the
continued effective regulation of freestanding emergency departments within the City.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1. Section 26-643 of the Code, regarding freestanding emergency
departments is hereby amended as follows:
Sec. 26-643. - Freestanding emergency room facilities departments.
C.For purposes of this section, freestanding emergency room facilities
departments shall mean and include a medical facility that is not physically attached to
a hospital facility that has the capability of providing medical care and services to patients
with emergency medical conditions in a manner similar to emergency rooms located
within hospitals. Features of a freestanding emergency room facility department may
include, but are not limited to, expanded hours of operation, drive-lanes or vehicle bays to
accommodate ambulance arrivals and departures, board-certified emergency physicians,
ATTACHMENT 1
board-certified emergency nurses, on-site lab and imaging capabilities and similar
equipment, services and treatments not commonly available in urgent-care facilities.
D.The use of freestanding emergency room facilities, as defined in this
section, is strictly prohibited in all zone districts within the city. Where permitted by the
table of uses in sections 26-204 and 26-1111, freestanding emergency departments
must be on a site of at least five (5) acres in size and co-located exclusively with other
medical uses (such as office, clinic, and laboratory uses) to create a medical campus.
Section 2. Subsection 26-204.C of the Code is hereby amended in the “Table of
Uses—Commercial and Industrial Districts” by modifying the use name and leaving the
remaining cells empty (meaning not permitted):
Uses Notes NC RC C-1 C-2 I-E
[…]
Freestanding
emergency room
facilities departments
Section 3. Subsection 26-1111.B of the Code, regarding permitted uses in the
mixed use zone districts, is hereby amended as follows:
Use Group MU-C MU-C
Interstate MU-C TOD MU-N
[…]
Public, Civic, and Institutional
Freestanding emergency
room facilities departments
(see § 26-643)
NP C NP NP NP
Section 17. Safety Clause. The City of Wheat Ridge hereby finds,
determines, and declares that this ordinance is promulgated under the general police
power of the City of Wheat Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety, and welfare
of the public and that this ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety
and for the protection of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further
determines that the ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object
sought to be attained.
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 18. 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 19. 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 7 to 0 on this
12th day of May 2025, ordered published by title in the newspaper and in full on the City’s
website as provided by the Home Rule Charter, and Public Hearing and consideration on
final passage set for June 9, 2025 at 6:30 p.m., as a virtual meeting and 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 June, 2025.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2025.
_______________________________
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Margy Greer, Senior Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to Form
______________________________
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication: May 13, 2025
Second Publication: June 10, 2025
Effective Date: June 25, 2025
Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ITEM NUMBER: 3
DATE: June 9, 2025
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
COUNCIL BILL NO. 11-2025
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF
LAWS CONCERING MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL PARKING REQUIREMENTS
AND MAKING CONFORMING AMENDMENTS THEREWITH
☐PUBLIC HEARING
☐BIDS/MOTIONS☐RESOLUTIONS
☒ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING
☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING
QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO
ISSUE:
This ordinance amends Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to update
parking requirements for multi-unit residential uses to comply with state legislation
and recent policy direction from City Council. Conforming amendments are required
to update definitions and terms related to residential uses.
PRIOR ACTION:
City Council discussed the proposed code amendment at its March 17, 2025, study
session and directed staff to proceed with preparing an ordinance for consideration.
Planning Commission reviewed the ordinance at a public hearing held on May 15, 2025,
and recommended approval by a vote of 7 to 1. The draft Planning Commission minutes
will be included with the Council Action Form for the second reading.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The proposed ordinance is not anticipated to have a direct financial impact on the city.
BACKGROUND:
The City Council discussed the proposed code amendment at their March 17, 2025,
study session and directed staff to proceed with preparing an ordinance for
consideration. The ordinance was prepared by the Planning Division and reviewed by
the City Attorney.
Council Action Form – Multi-Unit Parking Requirements
June 9, 2025
Page 2
The State of Colorado Legislature passed several bills in the 2024 Legislative Session
related to land use and housing. House Bill (HB) 24-1304, titled “Minimum Parking
Requirements”, prohibits municipalities from enacting and enforcing minimum off-street
parking requirements for multi-unit residential developments within applicable Transit
Service Areas. The prohibition on requiring parking applies to all new multi-unit
residential development and to adaptive re-use of existing buildings for multi-unit
residential purposes. The bill does not prevent developers from providing parking, it just
prevents municipalities from requiring a minimum quantity of parking. It also does not
change anything related to ADA-accessible parking requirements, bicycle parking
requirements, loading requirements, or affordable housing funding requirements related
to parking. The bill takes effect on June 30, 2025.
Discussion
Although removing parking requirements for multi-unit residential may be perceived as
a big change, staff believe there will be a limited impact on Wheat Ridge due to market
forces. Parking is often necessary to make a project successful, and providing some
parking reduces risk for developers. Parking is market-driven, and developers are best
equipped to know what ratio of parking needs to be provided to attract tenants or
buyers. Suburban developments will naturally provide more parking per unit than urban
developments, as it is more likely that residents will own cars and need to drive. The city
can still require ADA parking and bicycle parking to ensure site access and accessibility
are maintained.
The bill allows municipalities the discretion to define “multi-unit residential”, within
reason, and for the purpose of implementing this state law. Staff’s interpretation of the
legislation and intent is that this applies to typical apartment or condominium
developments, but not townhouses. In some places in the code, townhouses are
referred to as “single-unit attached” as they are separately owned on individual lots (fee-
simple), function as single-unit homes with a shared wall, and are constructed under
single unit residential building codes. In other places in the code, they are lumped in
under the broader category of multi-unit residential. Because the bill does not dictate
how exactly to define multi-unit for the purpose of the parking rules, the ordinance
updates the code to consistently reference townhouses as single-unit attached and
retain parking requirements for townhouses.
The applicable Transit Service Areas (where requiring minimum parking for multi-unit
residential is not allowed) cover a large portion of Wheat Ridge and are defined as any
area within one-quarter mile of a transit line with greater than 30-minute frequencies;
these are determined by the state’s Department of Local Affairs (DOLA). Nearly all areas
eligible/zoned for multi-unit residential in Wheat Ridge fall within the Transit Service
Areas boundaries; these areas are zoned R-3, MU-N, and MU-C which allow multi-unit
residential as a use-by-right. Given this overlap, City Council gave direction at its study
session to exempt all multi-unit residential from the parking requirements rather than
apply separate rules for areas inside and outside the Transit Service Areas, since areas
Council Action Form – Multi-Unit Parking Requirements
June 9, 2025
Page 3
outside of those zones are highly unlikely to be rezoned for multi-unit residential due to
the distance from major corridors or location within low-density neighborhoods.
Summary of Proposed Code Amendment
The ordinance makes the following changes:
•Updates parking requirements tables in Section 26-501 (Table 6), 26-1109.B, and
26-1407.F (Table 3) to remove minimum parking requirements for multi-unit
residential uses, while retaining parking requirements for single-unit attached
uses (i.e. townhouses).
•Updates definitions of multi-unit dwelling (apartment or condominium) and
single-attached dwelling (townhouse or row house) to distinguish one from the
other.
•Updates development standard charts and use charts to include terms for both
multi-unit and single-attached dwellings, as applicable.
•Conforming amendments:
o Updates Planned Development (PD) regulations to eliminate parking
minimums for new multi-unit residential within PDs.
o Clarifies parking requirements for other residential uses, without making
actual modifications, including retaining guest parking requirements for
townhouse developments if street parking is not available.
o Clarifies that ADA parking requirements for multi-unit uses are based on
the number of provided parking spaces.
o Updates EV parking requirements for multi-unit residential to be based on
the number of provided spaces and caps the number of required EV
spaces so ratios remain similar to previous requirements.
o Updates the residential parking requirements referencing RV parking at
multi-unit sites and removes a duplicate code section.
o Removes a parking reduction allowance for TOD-adjacent multi-unit
residential buildings since no parking will be required.
o Aligns terms related to multi-unit vs. single-unit attached throughout the
code.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance. First reading in these cases is a
procedural action that merely sets the date for the (second reading) public hearing.
No testimony is taken on first reading.
RECOMMENDED MOTIONS:
“I move to approve Council Bill No. 11-2025, an ordinance amending Chapter 26 of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning multi-unit residential parking requirements and
making conforming amendments therewith, on first reading, order it published, public
hearing set for Monday, June 23, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual meeting and in City
Council Chambers, and that it takes immediately after final publication.”
Council Action Form – Multi-Unit Parking Requirements
June 9, 2025
Page 4
Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 11-2025, an ordinance amending
Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning multi-unit residential parking
requirements and making conforming amendments therewith, for the following
reason(s): _______________________________________.”
As noted above, the original impetus of this code amendment is a change in state
law (HB24-1304). If there is a change in state law, in whole or in part, it may be
appropriate to reconsider this local code amendment. To the extent the Mayor or
Council would like to require a discussion of this topic in the future, a motion to that
effect will be provided at second reading.
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Scott Cutler, Senior Planner
Jana Easley, Planning Manager
Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director
Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1.Council Bill No. 11-2025
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
Council Bill No. 11
Ordinance No. 1824
Series of 2025
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE
CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING MULTI-UNIT RESIDENTIAL PARKING
REQUIREMENTS AND MAKING CONFORMING AMENDMENTS
THEREWITH
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge (“City”) is a Colorado home rule municipality
operating under a Charter approved by the electorate pursuant to Article XX of the
Colorado Constitution and governed by its elected City Council (“Council”); and
WHEREAS, the Council has authority pursuant to the Home Rule Charter and C.R.S.
§31-16-101, et seq. to adopt and enforce all ordinances; and
WHEREAS, in the exercise of this authority, the Council has previously adopted
requirements in the City’s Code of Laws, and specifically in Chapter 26 thereof (the
“zoning Code”); and
WHEREAS, the Colorado Legislature has adopted House Bill 24-1304 which
requires local governments to remove parking requirements for multi-unit residential
uses within applicable transit corridors, effective June 30, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the Council recognizes that from time to time the zoning Code needs
to be updated to include modern terminology, updated cross-references, remove conflicts
within the Code, and provide clarity to city staff and the public; and
WHEREAS, city staff have recommended certain amendments to the parking
requirements within the zoning Code based on best practices and experience and to
better align the Code with the state legislation and market realities; and
WHEREAS, neither the state legislation nor this ordinance precludes the city from
allowing parking, including allowing parking to meet any affordable housing funding
requirement; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds these amendments are necessary to conform the
Code of Laws to the state legislation and to ensure the continued effective regulation of
parking for multi-unit residential uses within the City of Wheat Ridge.
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 1
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1. Section 26-117.D of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, regulating
consolidation of lots for multi-unit development, is hereby amended as follows:
D. Lots or parcels of land which are included in the Residential-3 (R-3) or
Residential-3A (R-3A) zones and which are individually substandard for multi-unit
or single-unit attached development, but which would meet the lot size and
width requirement for single-unit or two-unit development, shall not be
consolidated for the purpose of multi-unit or single-unit attached residential
development unless the predominant adjacent land use is multi-unit or single-
unit attached development of a similar density.
Section 2. Section 26-123 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, defining certain
terms applicable to Chapter 26 of the Code, is hereby amended as follows:
Dwelling, live/work. A dwelling unit or sleeping unit in which a significant portion
of the space includes a nonresidential use that is operated by the tenant, in
compliance with the applicable building code definition and regulations of live/work.
Dwelling, multiplemulti-unit. Three (3) or more dwelling units where each unit is
attached to the other units either in a stacked configuration or a side-by-side
configuration (refer to dwelling, single attached). Also referred to as multi-unit dwelling.
A building containing three (3) or more dwelling units where each unit is attached to
the other units, also referred to as a condominium or apartment.
Dwelling, single-attached. A type of multi-unit dwelling that includes tThree (3) or
more dwelling units where each unit is attached to other units by party walls, and where
habitable spaces of different units are arranged side-by-side, rather than a stacked
configuration. This can include, but is not limited to, townhomestownhouses with
individual exterior entrances, also referred to as single-unit attached, townhouse, or
row house.
Section 3. The “Table of Uses - Residential” set forth in Section 26-204 of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning uses in residential zone districts, is hereby
amended as follows:
Uses Notes R-1 R-1A R-1B R-1C R-2 R-2A R-3 R-3A
Single detached dwelling P P P P P P P P
Duplex dwelling P P P P
Three-unit dwelling P P P
ATTACHMENT 1
Four-unit dwelling Multi-
unit dwelling or single-
attached dwelling (up to
4 units)
P P P
Multi-unit dwelling or
single-attached dwelling
P P
Section 4. Section 26-210.B (Residential-Two A District (R-2A)) of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws is amended by clarifying the multi-unit dwelling category and an
associated footnote to include single attached dwellings:
B.Development standards:
Maximum
Height
(i)
Maximum
Building
Coverage
Minimum
Lot
Area
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
Minimum
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
Minimum
Side
Yard
Setback (c)
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Setback (c)
Principal
Buildings Single detached
dwelling
35' 40% 7,500 sf 60’ 25’ (d) 5' (d) 10'
Duplex dwelling 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (d) 5' per
story
10'
Multi-unit dwelling,
or single attached
dwelling (3/more
dwelling units) (h)
35' 40% 13,050 sf
(e)
100' 25’ (d) 5' per
story
10' for one or
two story
buildings; 15'
for three
story
Group home 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (d) 5' per story 10'
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
35' 40% 1 acre 200' 25’ (d) 15' (f) 20'
Accessory
Buildings
(g)
Major 15' 600 sf (per
unit)
N/A N/A 25’ (d) 5' 5' if <= 10’ in
height; 10' if >
10’ in height
Minor 10' 400 sf/4
d.u.
N/A N/A 25’ (d) 5' 5'
Accessory dwelling
unit, detached
25’ Floor area
limited to
50% of
principal, or
1,000 sf,
whichever
is less (j)
N/A N/A 25’ (d) 5’ 5’ if ≤ 10’ in
height; 10’ if >
10’ in height
All Other
Uses 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (d) 5' 10'
Notes:
(a)Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
ATTACHMENT 1
(b)Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c)Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five (25) feet for
all structures, with the following exception: For Corner lots that are sixty (60) feet or narrower in width, this
requirement shall be reduced by half.
(d)Front setbacks for one-or two-unit dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may
be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(e)A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be required for each
dwelling unit for multi-unit or single-unit attached buildings.
(f)Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(g)See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(h)Individual townhouse lots shall be exempt from minimum lot size, lot width, and interior side yard setback
requirements, so long as the development parcel for the entire multi-unit townhouse building meets all
standards of this section. See section 26-411.C regarding the required plat note for townhouse lots.
(i)Bulk plane regulations shall apply in accordance with section 26-642, and may, when applied to a specific
project, have the effect of reducing the maximum height permitted.
(j)See Section 26-646.B.3 for additional regulations and exceptions pertaining to the size and footprint of
ADUs.
[…]
Section 5. Section 26-211.B (Residential-Three District (R-3)) of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws is amended by clarifying the multi-unit dwelling category and an
associated footnote to include single attached dwellings:
B.Development standards:
Maximum
Height
(i)
Maximum
Building
Coverage
Minimum
Lot
Area
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
Minimum
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
Minimum
Side
Yard
Setback (d)
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Setback (d)
Principal
Buildings Single detached
dwelling
35' 40% 7,500 sf 60' 25’ (e) 5' 10'
Duplex dwelling 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (e) 5' per
story
10'
Multi-unit dwelling,
or single attached
dwelling (3/more
dwelling units) (h)
35' 40% 12,500
sf (f)
100' 25’ (e) 15' (c) 15' (c)
Group home 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (e) 5' per
story
10'
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
35' 40% 1 acre 200' 25’ (e) 15' (c) 20'
Accessory
Buildings
(g)
Major 15' 600 sf (per
unit)
N/A N/A 25’ (e) 5' 5' if <= 10’ in
height; 10' if
> 10’ in
height
Minor 10' 400 sf/4 d.u. N/A N/A 25’ (e) 5' 5'
ATTACHMENT 1
Maximum
Height
(i)
Maximum
Building
Coverage
Minimum
Lot
Area
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
Minimum
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
Minimum
Side
Yard
Setback (d)
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Setback (d)
Accessory dwelling
unit, detached
25’ Floor area
limited to
50% of
principal, or
1,000 sf,
whichever is
less (j)
N/A N/A 25’ (e) 5’ 5’ if ≤ 10’ in
height; 10’ if
> 10’ in
height
All Other
Uses 35' 40% 7,500 sf 60' 25’ (e) 5’ per
story
10'
Notes:
(a)Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b)Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c)Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional five (5) feet
for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d)Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty-five (25) feet for all
structures, with the following exception: For corner lots that are sixty (60) feet or narrower in width, this
requirement shall be reduced by half.
(e)Front setbacks for one-or two-unit dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may
be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(f)A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall be required for each
dwelling unit for multi-unit or single-unit attached buildings.
(g)See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(h)Individual townhouse lots shall be exempt from minimum lot size, lot width, and interior side yard setback
requirements, so long as the development parcel for the entire multi-unit townhouse building meets all
standards of this section. See section 26-411.C regarding the required plat note for townhouse lots.
(i)Bulk plane regulations shall apply in accordance with section 26-642, and may, when applied to a specific
project, have the effect of reducing the maximum height permitted.
(j)See Section 26-646.B.3 for additional regulations and exceptions pertaining to the size and footprint of ADUs.
[…]
Section 6. Section 26-212.B (Residential-Three A District (R-3 A)) of the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws is amended by clarifying the multi-unit dwelling category and an
associated footnote to include single attached dwellings:
B.Development standards:
Maximum
Height
(i)
Maximum
Building
Coverage
Minimum
Lot
Area
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
Minimum
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
Minimum
Side
Yard
Setback (d)
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Setback (d)
Principal
Buildings Single detached
dwelling
35' 40% 7,500 sf 60' 25’ (e) 5' 10'
Duplex dwelling 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (e) 5' per
story
10'
Multi-unit dwelling,
or single attached
dwelling (3/more
dwelling units) (h)
35' 40% 12,500
sf (f)
100' 25’ (e) 15' (c) 15' (c)
Group home 35' 40% 9,000 sf 75' 25’ (e) 5' per
story
10'
ATTACHMENT 1
Maximum
Height
(i)
Maximum
Building
Coverage
Minimum
Lot
Area
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
Minimum
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
Minimum
Side
Yard
Setback (d)
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Setback (d)
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
35' 40% 1 acre 200' 25’ 15' (c) 20'
Accessory
Buildings
(g)
Major 15' 600 sf (per
unit)
N/A N/A 25’ (e) 5' 5' if <= 10’ in
height; 10' if
> 10’ in
height
Minor 10' 400 sf/4
d.u.
N/A N/A 25’ (e) 5' 5'
Accessory dwelling
unit, detached
25’ Floor area
limited to
50% of
principal, or
1,000 sf,
whichever is
less (j)
N/A N/A 25’ (e) 5’ 5’ if ≤ 10’ in
height; 10’ if
> 10’ in
height
All Other
Uses 35' 40% 7,500 sf 60' 25’ (e) 5’ per
story
10'
Notes:
(a)Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b)Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c)Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional five (5) feet
for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d)Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five (25) feet for
all structures, with the following exception: For corner lots that are sixty (60) feet or narrower in width, this
requirement shall be reduced by half.
(e)Front setbacks for one-or two-unit dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may
be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(f)A minimum of three thousand nine hundred sixty (3,960) square feet of land area shall be required for each
dwelling unit for multi-unit or single-unit attached buildings.
(g)See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(h)Individual townhouse lots shall be exempt from minimum lot size, lot width, and interior side yard setback
requirements, so long as the development parcel for the entire multi-unit townhouse building meets all
standards of this section. See section 26-411.C regarding the required plat note for townhouse lots.
(i)Bulk plane regulations shall apply in accordance with section 26-642, and may, when applied to a specific
project, have the effect of reducing the maximum height permitted.
(j)See Section 26-646.B.3 for additional regulations and exceptions pertaining to the size and footprint of
ADUs.
[…]
Section 7. Section 26-312.E of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
parking requirements for planned residential development (PRD) districts, is hereby
amended as follows.
ATTACHMENT 1
E.Parking. In accordance with section 26-501, otherwise as established by the
outline development plan and as specifically detailed on an approved specific
development plan. New development within an existing planned development
shall comply with current requirements for minimum EV parking requirements.
To the extent the requirements of a planned development conflict with EV
requirements, the EV requirements shall control. In the event of conflict between
the code requirements and the recorded planned development documents with
respect to parking for multi-unit residential uses, the code requirements shall
control.
Section 8. Section 26-316.G of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
parking requirements for planned mixed use development (PMUD) districts, is hereby
amended as follows.
G.Parking. In accordance with section 26-1109 or 26-501, otherwise as
established by the outline development plan and as specifically detailed on an
approved specific development plan or site plan. Allowances may be made for
shared parking spaces if it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the person
or approval body designated as having final approval authority that parking
demand for different uses occurs at different times. New development within an
existing planned development shall comply with current requirements for
minimum EV parking requirements. To the extent the requirements of a planned
development conflict with EV requirements, the EV requirements shall control. In
the event of conflict between the code requirements and the recorded planned
development documents with respect to parking for multi-unit residential uses,
the code requirements shall control.
Section 9. Section 26-417.E.2 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
requirements for construction of public improvements, is hereby amended as follows:
E.Required street improvements.
1. …
2.Construction or payment-in-lieu. …
a. …
b.Multi-unit, single-unit attached, and non-residential.
i. For any subdivision or development associated with multi-
unit residential, single-unit attached, or non-residential land
uses, the applicant shall be responsible for construction of
public improvements based on current city standards.
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 10. Section 26-501.E.2 (Table 6) of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, the
Schedule of Required Off-Street Parking, is hereby amended as follows:
Boarding and rooming house 1 space per guest room
…
Congregate care center 0.75 space per each bedroom plus 1 space for
each employee on maximum shift
…
Multi-unit elderly housing,
exclusively devoted for persons
60 years or older
1.25 spaces for each 1 bedroom unit
1.5 spaces per 2 bedroom unit if parcel is 1 acre or
larger, or 1.75 spaces per 2 bedroom unit if parcel
is less than 1 acre;
2.0 spaces per 3 bedroom unit;
2.5 spaces per 4 or more bedroom unit
Multi-unit residential None. Parking is permitted, but no minimum
number of spaces is required.1.5 spaces per 1
bedroom unit
(0.75 spaces if deed-restricted affordable unit)
2.0 spaces per 2 or 3 bedroom unit
(1 space if deed-restricted affordable unit)
2.5 spaces per 4 or more bedroom unit
(1.25 spaces if deed-restricted affordable unit)
Plus 1 additional space for each 10 spaces shall
be required as designated visitor parking.
Such visitor parking shall not be used by residents
for personal parking nor for storage of utility or
recreation vehicles.
…
New single-unit attached
dwellings:
1 space per unit. The community development
director shall have the authority to request that
additional on-site visitor parking or loading areas
be provided if there are no on-street parking
spaces abutting the use or if the parking is
predominately provided in private garages.
New single- and two-unit
dwellings:
-With street parking 2 spaces per dwelling unit (including enclosed
garage spaces)
-Without street parking 4 spaces per dwelling unit (including enclosed
garage spaces)
…
ATTACHMENT 1
Residential group homes for up
to 14 persons, plus staff
Single-unit dwelling requirement plus 1 space per
employee on maximum shift
Section 11. Section 26-501.E.4 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
bicycle parking requirements, is hereby updated as follows:
E.Standards.
1. …
…
4.Bicycle parking.
a.Applicability. Bicycle parking as set forth in table 7 in subsection
E.4.b below shall be required for all nonresidential, and multi-unit
dwelling, and single-unit attached uses.
Section 12. Section 26-501.E.9 (Table 8) of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws,
Accessible Parking requirements, is hereby updated as follows by the addition of a
footnote:
TABLE 8: Accessible Parking
Total Number of Off-Street Spaces
Required1
Number of Accessible Spaces
1-25 1
26-50 2
…
>1,000 20 plus 1 for each 100 over 100
Footnotes:
1.For multi-unit residential uses, the number of ADA spaces shall be based on the number of
provided parking spaces instead of the number of required spaces.
2.The number of ADA parking spaces required by this table shall be verified against the
applicable adopted building codes and federal ADA regulations.
Section 13. Section 26-501.E.13 (Table 12) of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws,
EVCS Requirements, is hereby updated as follows:
TABLE 12: EVCS Requirements
Building Code Category EV Capable EV Ready EVCS Installed
EV Capable EV Capable
Light
ATTACHMENT 1
Single-unit, duplex, and
single-unit attached
(townhome)
None None 1 per unit1 None
Multi-unit residential3 10% 30% 15% 5%
Multi-unit residential, 10
or fewer total parking
spaces required
provided3
10% 10% 15% None
Commercial and
institutional
10% 10% 8% 2%
Commercial and
institutional with 10 or
fewer total parking
spaces required
None None 2 spaces None
Industrial2 None 5% None 2%
Footnotes:
1.For any dwelling unit with a dedicated attached or detached garage or other on-site designated
parking provided for the dwelling unit.
2.Exclusive of warehouse and distribution space for which there is no requirement.
3.EV parking for multi-unit residential is based on the number of provided spaces, not the number
of required spaces. If the number of provided parking spaces exceeds the total unit count, then
EV parking shall not be required for those additional parking spaces. since no parking is required
for multi-unit residential uses.
Section 14. Section 26-501.G of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
parking regulations for recreational vehicles and trailers, is hereby updated as follows:
G.Residential parking.
1. …
2. …
3.Location of recreational vehicles and trailers.
a. …
…
d.Miscellaneous recreational vehicle and trailer regulations.
i. …
ii. …
iii. Parking of recreational vehicles and trailers on multi-unit
dwelling property. The storage of recreational vehicles or
trailers is permitted upon multi-unit dwelling residential
ATTACHMENT 1
properties where the owner of the vehicle resides upon the
premises, and where such vehicle or vehicles do not displace
parking spaces required accessible parking spaces or
loading areasto meet the minimum vehicular parking
requirement for the property as set forth herein for multi-unit
residential land uses.
4.Variances to residential parking standards. Any vehicle or trailer owner
may apply for a variance to the restrictions contained in subsections 2.a,
3.a. and 3.b in accordance with the procedures for requesting a
minoradministrative variance as provided in subsection 26-115.C.1,
whether or not the requested variance is within the ten (10)fifty (50)
percent limitation. Should objections be received from the adjacent
property owners, the community development director shall schedule the
request for a public hearing before the board of adjustment under Code
Section 2-61. according to the noticing procedures contained in
subsections 26-109.B, C and D. Any variance granted by either the
community development director or the board of adjustment shall be a
grant of the variance to the property owner only.
Section 15. Section 26-621 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws is hereby repealed
and the section number reserved.
Section 16. Section 26-626 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
residential uses in commercial zones, is hereby amended as follows:
D. Parking shall be supplied at the rate of one (1) space per dwelling unit, except
that minimum parking is not required for multi-unit dwellings.
Section 17. Section 26-709.B.2 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
definitions for permitted sign types, is hereby amended as follows:
B.For the purposes of this article only, the following definitions shall apply.
1.Low density residential. Land use category for determining allowable
signage, both permanent and temporary, for single detached and duplex
dwellings.
2.Multi-unit residential. Land use category for determining allowable
signage, both permanent and temporary, for residential uses with three (3)
or more attached dwelling units, including single-unit attached dwelling
uses.
3.Nonresidential. Land use category for determining allowable signage,
both permanent and temporary, for all commercial, industrial and other
nonresidential uses.
Section 18. Section 26-710.J.6 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
sign standards for freestanding signs, is hereby amended as follows:
J.Freestanding signs.
1. …
…
6. For multi-unit dwelling uses, including single-unit attached dwellings:
a….
…
…
Section 19. Section 26-1109.B of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, the table
regulating parking requirements for mixed use zone districts, is hereby amended as
follows by adding a new use group in the appropriate alphabetical location within the
table and modifying existing use groups:
Use Group Minimum Required
Parking
Maximum Allowed
Parking
Residential (single-unit
detached, duplex, or
single-unit attached)
1 space per unit 2.5 spaces per unit
Residential, deed-restricted
affordable (if single-unit
detached, duplex, or
single-unit attached)
0.5 spaces per unit or
0.25 spaces per unit if
within ¼ mile of a fixed
guideway transit station or
bus rapid transit
2.5 spaces per unit
Residential, multi-unit
(including deed-restricted
affordable)
None. 2.5 spaces per unit
Section 20. Section 26-1109.F of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
transit parking reductions in mixed use zones, is hereby amended as follows:
F. Transit parking reductions. Properties within the MU-C TOD sub-district may
reduce minimum parking requirements by twenty (20) percent. This reduction shall not
apply to deed-restricted affordable dwelling units governed by subsection B above.
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 21. Section 26-1109.K of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
visitor parking requirements, is hereby amended as follows:
K. The community development director shall have authority to request that on-
site visitor parking or loading areas be provided for single-unit attached uses if there
are no on-street parking spaces abutting the use or if the parking is predominantly
provided in private garages.
Section 22. The “Permitted Uses” Chart set forth in Section 26-1111.B of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning permitted uses in mixed use zone districts, is
hereby amended as follows by the modification of an existing term:
Permitted Uses
Use Group MU-C MU-C
Interstate
MU-C TOD MU-N
Residential
Dwelling, multiplemulti-unit P P P P
Section 23. Section 26-1119 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
definitions for mixed-use zone districts, is hereby amended as follows by removing
definitions related to dwelling units:
Dwelling, duplex. A building containing two (2) separate primary dwelling units
attached by one (1) or more common walls in either a stacked configuration or side-by-
side configuration. Also referred to as two-unit dwelling.
Dwelling, live/work. A dwelling unit or sleeping unit in which a significant portion of
the space includes a nonresidential use that is operated by the tenant, in compliance with
the applicable building code definition and regulations of live/work.
Dwelling, multiple. Three (3) or more dwelling units where each unit is attached to
other units, where habitable spaces are arranged in a stacked configuration, and where
a building includes a common public entrance but interior entrances to each unit.
Dwelling, single attached. Three (3) or more dwelling units where each unit is
attached to other units by party walls, and where habitable spaces of different units are
arranged side-by-side, rather than a stacked configuration. This can include, but is not
limited to, townhomes with exterior entrances.
Dwelling, single detached. A single dwelling unit in a single building not attached
to other buildings other than those accessory to the dwelling. Also referred to as single-
unit dwelling.
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 24. Section 26-1407.F of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, Table 3,
regulating parking requirements for the MU-LLC zone district, is hereby amended as
follows by adding a new use group in the appropriate alphabetical location within the
table and modifying existing use groups:
Table 3: Parking Requirements
Use Group Minimum Required
Parking
Maximum Allowed
Parking
Residential (if single-unit
detached, duplex, or
single-unit attached)
1 space per unit 2.5 spaces per unit
Residential, deed-restricted
affordable (if single-unit
detached, duplex, or
single-unit attached)
0.5 spaces per unit or 0.25
spaces per unit if within ¼
mile of a fixed guideway
transit station or bus rapid
transit
2 spaces per unit
Residential, multi-unit
(including deed-restricted
affordable)
None. 2.5 spaces per unit
Section 25. Section 26-1407.M of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, concerning
visitor parking requirements, is hereby amended as follows:
M.The community development director shall have authority to request that on-
site visitor parking or loading areas be provided if there are no on-street parking spaces
abutting the use or if the parking is predominantly provided in private garages, except
for multi-unit residential uses. Visitor parking shall be provided throughout the campus.
Section 26. The “Permitted Uses within MU-LLC Overlays and Sub-Districts”
chart (Table 5) set forth in Section 26-1410.B of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, is
hereby amended as follows by the modification of an existing term:
Table 5: Permitted Uses within MU-LLC Overlays and Sub-Districts
Use Group Low-
Density
Overlay
Sub-district
1 (outside
of Low-
Density
Overlay)
Sub-
district 2
Sub-
district 3
Sub-
district 4
(outside
of Low-
Density
Overlay)
Residential
Dwelling, multiplemulti-unit NP NP P P C
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 27. Safety Clause. The City of Wheat Ridge hereby finds,
determines, and declares that this ordinance is promulgated under the general police
power of the City of Wheat Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety, and welfare
of the public and that this ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety
and for the protection of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further
determines that the ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object
sought to be attained.
Section 28. 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 29. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take immediately 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 June 2025, ordered published by title in the newspaper and in full on the City’s
website as provided by the Home Rule Charter, and Public Hearing and consideration on
final passage set for June 23, 2025 at 6:30 p.m., as a virtual meeting and 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 __ day of ____, 2025.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2025.
_______________________________
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________________
Margy Greer, Senior Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to Form
___________________________
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
ATTACHMENT 1
First Publication: June 10, 2025
Second Publication: June 24, 2025
Effective Date: June 23, 2025
Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
ITEM NUMBER: 4
DATE: June 9, 2025
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
COUNCIL BILL No. 12-2025
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 26-502 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE
CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING PROCEDURAL UPDATES TO
LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
☐PUBLIC HEARING
☐BIDS/MOTIONS☐RESOLUTIONS
☒ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING
☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING
QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO
ISSUE:
This ordinance amends Section 26-502 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws to update
landscaping requirements to correct minor discrepancies in the city’s regulations
and to codify a policy related to calculating maximum allowable limits of irrigated
turf and non-living materials.
PRIOR ACTION:
City Council discussed the proposed code amendment at its March 17, 2025, study
session.
Planning Commission reviewed the ordinance at a public hearing held on May 15, 2025,
and recommended approval by a vote of 8 to 0. The draft Planning Commission minutes
will be included with the Council Action Form for second reading.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The proposed ordinance is not anticipated to have a direct financial impact on the city.
BACKGROUND:
The city’s landscaping regulations were updated in August 2024 which included a full
repeal and reenactment of Section 26-502 (Landscaping, buffering, and open space).
This ordinance was also called the “Waterwise ordinance” and some regulations within
the ordinance were created to address the state’s regulations regarding nonfunctional
Council Action Form – Landscaping Updates
June 9, 2025
Page 2
turf and limits on artificial turf from Senate Bill (SB) 24-005, which takes effect January
1, 2026.
Upon approval of the Waterwise ordinance, staff noticed that there were some minor
discrepancies between the city’s regulations, the state regulations, and different
chapters of the code. These discrepancies were largely addressed in the MU-LLC
regulations ordinance approved by City Council in January 2025, which included
conforming amendments to clarify the locations where artificial turf is permitted.
However, these conforming amendments did not make updates to Section 26-502.
Additionally, the Waterwise ordinance did not explicitly state how the maximum
allowable limits for irrigated turf and non-living materials/features shall be applied to
landscaping provided in excess of the required minimums. To provide for consistent
application of maximum allowable requirements, staff adopted an administrative policy,
which is best practice to codify. The stated maximum allowances for irrigated turf
and/or non-living material shall be applied to the total landscaping provided, whether at
the minimum or in excess of the minimum area requirements. Not only will this
maintain the intent of reducing or minimizing outdoor water use in the landscape and
maintain an appropriate level of landscape coverage, it will also simplify the inspection
and enforcement processes for staff.
Summary of Proposed Code Amendment
The ordinance makes the following changes:
•Updates 26-502.E (Table 3) to add a footnote describing how the maximum
percentages are applied.
•Updates 26-502.E.2 to align the artificial turf requirements with the mixed-use
code and Lutheran code.
•Adds the term “single-unit attached” to clarify when regulations apply to
townhouse development.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance. First reading in these cases is a
procedural action that merely sets the date for the (second reading) public hearing.
No testimony is taken on first reading.
RECOMMENDEDS MOTION:
“I move to approve Council Bill No. 12-2025, an ordinance amending Section 26-502 of
the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning procedural updates to landscaping
requirements, on first reading, order it published, public hearing set for Monday, June
23, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. as a virtual meeting and in City Council Chambers, and that it
takes effect immediately after final publication.”
Council Action Form – Landscaping Updates
June 9, 2025
Page 3
Or,
“I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 12-2025, an ordinance amending
Section 26-502 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws concerning procedural updates to
landscaping requirements, for the following reason(s):
_______________________________________.”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Scott Cutler, Senior Planner
Jana Easley, Planning Manager
Lauren Mikulak, Community Development Director
Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1.Council Bill No. 12-2025
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
Council Bill No. 12
Ordinance No. 1825
Series of 2025
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 26-502 OF THE WHEAT
RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING PROCEDURAL UPDATES TO
LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
WHEREAS, the City of Wheat Ridge (“City”) is a Colorado home rule municipality
operating under a Charter approved by the electorate pursuant to Article XX of the
Colorado Constitution and governed by its elected City Council (“Council”); and
WHEREAS, the Council has authority pursuant to the Home Rule Charter and C.R.S.
§31-16-101, et seq. to adopt and enforce all ordinances; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to this authority, the Council previously adopted revised
regulations for landscaping requirements by repealing and replacing Section 26-502 of
the Code of Laws in August 2024; and
WHEREAS, city staff have recommended a minor procedural amendment to the
landscaping regulations based on experience administering the new Section 26-502 over
the past several months; and
WHEREAS, minor discrepancies were discovered in the Code related to regulation
of permissible locations and quantities of artificial turf, which also conflict with state
legislation regarding artificial turf; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds this ordinance is necessary to remove the identified
conflicts and to provide clarity to staff and the public.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1. Section 26-502.E (Table 3) is hereby amended to add a new
footnote (d), to read:
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 2. Subsection 26-502.E.2 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws
concerning artificial turf requirements is hereby amended to read:
E.Landscape requirements by use. …
…
2. Multi-unit residential, single-attached residential, and nonresidential
uses:
Table 3. Landscape Requirements by Use
Minimum
Required
Landscape Area
Trees within
front setback(a)
On-site trees and
shrubs(b)
Maximum
Irrigated
Turf(d)
Maximum
Non-living
Material &
Features(d)
Residential Uses
(All Zone Districts except Mixed-Use) (c)
Single
Detached and
Duplex Uses
25% of the gross lot
area and 100% of the
front yard
1 shade tree per
70 linear feet of
street frontage, to
be placed within
the front setback
N/A 50% 2/3 of the front
yard
Multi-Unit
Residential
Uses and
Single-Unit
Attached Uses
30% of total lot area;
100% of front yard,
excepting pedestrian
and vehicular access
1 tree per 30 feet
of street frontage
1 tree and 10
shrubs per 1,000 SF
of required
landscape area
30% 50%
Nonresidential Uses
Zoned
Commercial
20% of gross lot area 1 tree per 30 feet
of street frontage
1 tree and 10
shrubs per 1,000 SF
of required
landscape area
30% 50%
Zoned
Industrial
15% of gross lot area
All Other Zone
Districts
20% of gross lot area
Zoned Mixed
Use(c)
See Article XI, or Article XIV for MU-LLC
Notes:
(a) Trees provided in the building front setback shall not replace any requirements for street trees established in the
Streetscape Design Manual. Where a build-to is required pursuant to the Architectural and Site Design Manual, trees
within the front setback are not required.
(b)In addition to trees required within the front setback, on-site trees and shrubs shall be provided.
(c)The landscape requirements of this table do not apply to mixed-use zones. Refer to section 26-1110, or section 26-
1409 for MU-LLC.
(d)The stated maximum percentages shall be applied to the total landscaping provided, whether the total
landscaping provided is at the minimum or in excess of the minimum area requirements.
ATTACHMENT 1
…
g.Artificial turf.
i.Artificial turf is permitted in limited circumstances, as
follows:
a)Sport and play areas specifically designed for
athletic purposes including but not limited to
athletic fields of play, playgrounds, gaming areas,
and dog runs.
b)Private fenced side and rear yards of single-
attached dwellings, such as townhomes, up to a
maximum of four hundred (400) square feet per
dwelling unit.
c)The location shall be approved through a site plan
application, civil construction documents, site
work permit, or building permit, whichever is
applicable, and permeability shall be accounted for
in drainage plans. The area may be credited
towards non-living landscape area.The only use of
artificial turf that qualifies as landscape materials
(non-living) is for athletic fields of play. Other
uses of artificial turf, including playgrounds,
gaming areas, and dog runs, shall not qualify as
landscaping.
ii. Artificial turf is prohibited in the following locations:
a)Required landscape buffer areas.
b)Areas owned and/or maintained by owners’
associations, except where used for athletic fields
of playpurposes.
c)On commercial, industrial, and institutional
properties, except where used for athletic fields of
playpurposes.
Section 3. Subsection 26-501.F.1 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws,
concerning process for review of landscaping plans, is hereby amended to read:
F.Process.
1.Landscape plan. A landscape plan shall be submitted with the required
development plan or building permit for (1) all single-unit detached or
duplex residential development with common area tracts or easements;
(2) all multi-unit and single-unit attached residential development; and (3)
all nonresidential development. The plan shall include: …
ATTACHMENT 1
Section 4. Safety Clause. The City of Wheat Ridge hereby finds,
determines, and declares that this ordinance is promulgated under the general police
power of the City of Wheat Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety, and welfare
of the public and that this ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety
and for the protection of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further
determines that the ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object
sought to be attained.
Section 5. 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 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect immediately 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 June 2025, ordered published by title in a newspaper and in full on the City’s
website as provided by the Home Rule Charter, and Public Hearing and consideration on
final passage set for June 23, 2025 at 6:30 p.m., as a virtual meeting and 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 __ day of ____, 2025.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this _____ day of ____________, 2025.
_______________________________
Bud Starker, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Margy Greer, Senior Deputy City Clerk
Approved as to Form _________________________
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication: June 10, 2025
Second Publication: June 24, 2025
Effective Date: June 23, 2025
Jeffco Transcript and www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
ITEM NUMBER: 5
DATE: June 9, 2025
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
MOTION
TITLE: MOTION APPROVING THE SELECTION OF PUBLIC ART
TITLED, “FUN, FUN, FUNGI” BY DAVID FARQUHARSON OF
FARHORIZON STUDIO LLC TO BE INSTALLED AT THE GREEN
AT 38TH PROJECT SITE
☐PUBLIC HEARING☒BIDS/MOTIONS
☐RESOLUTIONS
☐ORDINANCES FOR 1st READING
☐ORDINANCES FOR 2nd READING
QUASI-JUDICIAL ☐YES ☒NO
ISSUE:
The Green at 38th project includes funding for public art. The process for selecting
public art is defined in the Public Art Management Plan. Per this process, a public art
piece called “Fun, Fun, Fungi” has been commissioned. David Farquharson’s proposal
was selected by an appointed committee for recommendation to the Cultural
Commission. The Cultural Commission reviewed the proposal and per the defined
process would like to make a recommendation to City Council for acceptance and
purchase. The purchase price of $60,000 includes design, construction, installation, and
documentation.
PRIOR ACTION:
The Cultural Commission recommended purchase of the art pieces on May 14, 2025.
City Council adopted the Public Art Management Plan on July 22, 2002.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost for this acquisition is $60,000. The funds for this purchase are appropriated in
the 2025 Public Art Fund in the amount of $60,000.
BACKGROUND:
The policies and procedures for this selection are based on the Public Art Management
Plan adopted by the Wheat Ridge City Council. The public art selection committee
included a Cultural Commission representative, a community representative, a visual
artist, an elected representative, a City staff representative, and one site/design agency
Council Action Form – Green at 38th Public Art Selection
June 9, 2025
Page 2
representative, and the project manager associated with the Green at 38th project.
The call for artists was open to all artists, with preference given to Colorado artists. The
public art selection committee was open to various types of art, excluding only murals
due to site constraints. Specifically, the group was hoping for submissions that were
colorful, kid-friendly, functional, with a lighting component for an evening presence.
Four finalists presented their ideas to the public art selection committee, and the group
unanimously selected “Fun, Fun, Fungi” by David Farquharson. The installation will
include multiple, colorful mushroom sculptures throughout the park. They will be placed
in planter beds and lit at night. The proposal included an element of youth engagement
with Stevens Elementary students, creating an identity/story for each of the
mushrooms.
The artist, David Farquharson, met with the Green at 38th project team to specify
locations for the art, in the event that this selection is approved by City Council.
Electrical requirements needed to be considered at an earlier date to align with the
project timeline.
The Cultural Commission unanimously supported the selection of “Fun, Fun, Fungi”
during their May 14th meeting. The final step is City Council approval.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The Cultural Commission recommends approval of the purchase of “Fun, Fun, Fungi” by
David Farquharson for placement at the Green at 38th project site.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
“I move to approve the selection of public art titled “Fun, Fun, Fungi” by David
Farquharson of Farhorizon Studios LLC to be installed at the Green at 38th project site.”
Or,
“I move to not approve the selection of public art titled “Fun, Fun, Fungi” by David
Farquharson of Farhorizon Studios LLC to be installed at the Green at 38th project site
for the following reason(s).”
REPORT PREPARED/REVIEWED BY:
Karen A. O’Donnell, Parks & Recreation Director
Patrick Goff, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Green at 38th Art Selection Presentation
Wheat Ridge Public Art
The Green at 38th
Presentation to City Council: June 9, 2025
Kendall Peterson, ThereSquared LLC ATTACHMENT 1
Agenda
•The Green at 38 th Public Art Overview
•Selection Process Overview
•Artist Proposals and Finalist Selection
•Next Steps
•Questions
The Green at 38th: Project Overview
Following delays from the Covid pandemic, the final design was completed in 2024, and
construction is nearly complete. The new park design will not only improve the Stevens
Elementary parking lot but reconfigure this civic space to maximize space for a more formal
stage at one end and foster activities and connection this popular event area. More
amenities, like a playground, a promenade for pedestrians and food trucks, and a community
patchwork wall are also planned. The “patchwork” design is a reference to Wheat Ridge's
agricultural history and the patchwork appearance of small farms as viewed from the sky.
This theme is also a reference to the variety of cultural events and activities that have taken
place in this space for well over a century.
Project Purpose and Goals
Wheat Ridge began public
engagement in 2018 on a
project to transform the area
between Stevens Elementary
and 38th Ave into a future
public gathering space.
Project Purpose and Goals
Selection Panel
Cultural Commissioner Representative:CELIA DALY
Community Representative LUCIA DESO
Visual Artist MELINDA VALENTINI
City Staff Member PATRICK GOFF
Elected Representative/City Council RACHEL HULTIN
Site/Design Agency Rep MARK TAYLOR
Project Manager KAREN O’DONNELL
Selection Process Overview
Request for
Qualifications:
Criteria
•All artists: Colorado artists receive preference
•Locations: anywhere except promenade
•Types: functional, kid oriented, multiples, colorful,
lighting for night.
•$60,000 USD total for artwork
.
December 14, 2025 Orientation meeting
December 26, 2025 Call for Entry Open
January 27, 2025 Deadline for submissions
February 7, 2025 Committee Review Applications /
Semi-Finalists selected
April 14-15, 2025 Semi-Finalists
Proposals/Interviews
May 14, 2025 Cultural Commission approval
June 9, 2025 Presentation to City Council;
Contracting begins
Fall ‘25 or Spring ‘26 Installation
Short-Listed Artist:
Terrence Martin,
“Patchworks”
•Seating elements inspired by Wheat Ridge
Short-Listed Artist:
Terrence Martin,
“Patchworks”
•Comments/Discussion
•Colorful
•Functional
•Actually liked the carnations
•Multiples
•Not fond of wheat
•Concern about weights/access
•Like connection to site and
community
Short-Listed Artist: Peter
Hazel, “Columbine”
•Mosaic
•Single element
Short -Listed Artist: Peter
Hazel
Comments/Discussion
•Prefer other animal work
•Beautiful mosaic work
•No lighting
•Single moment
•Not sure about Columbine connection
•Perhaps 2 separate instead of solo?
Short-Listed Artist:
Justin Diester,
Untitled
•Options included: Blocks, Symbols with riddles, and
alphabet sculptures.
Short-Listed Artist:
Justin Diester Untitled
•Appreciate artwork that engages
kids
•Colorful and multiple elements
•Alphabet=26 sculptures
•Concerns about materials and
maintenance
•Not sculpturally interesting
Winning Proposal: David
Farquharson
“Fun, Fun, Fungi”
•Multiple mushroom sculptures
throughout the park
•Colorful, small elements
•Lit at night
•Placed in planter beds
•Engages the kids at school to
create back stories on the
different fungi
Winning
Proposal: “Fun,
Fun, Fungi”
Proposed
Lighting
Winning Proposal: David
Farquharson
“Fun, Fun, Fungi”
•Over a dozen works in planters
throughout the park
•2-3 feet high; 2-4 feet diameter; lit at
night
•Different shapes and colors
•Unanimous approval for the “Fun, Fun,
Fungi” proposal
•Colorado artist!
•Multiples that will add to night presence
“Chihuly”
•Low maintenance
•Engages the kids to create a story about
the sculptures
•Friendly, fun and nothing you have ever
seen before.
•Samples great for color ideas, but not
effective
David Farquharson: Next Steps
•May 14 received unanimous approval from Cultural Council
•June 9, City Council review and approval
•Contract
•Design Phase: placement and revisions to proposed artwork
•Engineering
•Fabrication
•Installation 2025 -6?
Questions or Comments?
Kendall Peterson
ThereSquared LLC
303-902-1600
Kendall@theresquareddenver.com