Connec ions
A publication from The City of Wheat Ridge
Issue 22 | Spring 2007
www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
Junk, Trash, Illegal Signs,
and Inoperable Vehicles?
H
In this Issue
2
Mayor’s Corner
How is Your Property Looking?
ave you driven through your
neighborhood lately and noticed
indoor furniture on a lawn? Perhaps
a car that is in need of repair parked on the
side of a house? Garbage and junk that you
know has been sitting in the same place
on a property for over a month? Have you
wondered about whether it is legal to park a
boat covered with a blue tarp or recreational
vehicle in the backyard? All of these instances
are violations of City Code. The Wheat
Ridge Community Services Unit responds
to these types of code enforcement issues
every day. Code enforcement issues are the
result of a lack of individual property owner
and/or tenant knowledge regarding code
enforcement ordinances or responsibility in
property care that can negatively affect the
cleanliness and overall appearance of Wheat
Ridge neighborhoods. Citizens can do their
part in being a good neighbor by making sure
that they do not have any code violations on
their property.
So how do you know if your property is
in compliance with the Nuisance Code?
Code Enforcement laws deal specifically with
Chapter 15 known as the “Nuisance” Code.
You can view a copy of the City’s Nuisance
Code online at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us by
clicking “Municipal Code,” or by calling the
Community Services Unit at 303-235-2926
to request a copy.
What’s the problem with code enforcement?
In 2006, the Wheat Ridge Police
Department’s Community Services Unit
responded to 2,196 reported code violations
and the city spent about $18,447 on property
abatement. Top code enforcement violations
in Wheat Ridge usually consist of weeds,
illegal signage, inoperable vehicles and junk
in yards year-round. Code violations are
when property owners and/or tenants violate
the City Code, which are the laws of Wheat
Ridge passed by the City Council to preserve
the safety and welfare of the community.
Tell me about the proposed Administrative
Model for Nuisance Ordinances
In response to the increased demand on
the Community Services Unit to address
code enforcement issues, the City of Wheat
Ridge Police Department is proposing a new
Administrative Model for City Code nuisance
violations. The City Council will hold a
public hearing for the new process at the
May 14, 2007 City Council meeting. If
the City Council approves the proposed
program, the new process will begin on a
date to be determined.
The new Administrative Model is a
program that will change the process the
Police Department has used in the past,
from a criminal due process model, to an
administrative model. More importantly,
the new program is aimed at creating a more
effective program central to the revitalization
efforts taking place throughout the community.
“Code Enforcement plays an important role
in cleaning up our neighborhoods,” said
– Continued on page 6
4
Wheat Ridge 2020’s
Randall Park Home
Renovation
9
Protecting Your
Home From Wildfire
13
Large Item
Pick Up Program
21
Is Your Dog
Licensed Yet?
2Connections
Mayor’s
Corner
Over the past several months, City Council, staff and
I have been busy working towards making Wheat
Ridge — A Great Place to Live! Specifically, the
programs, policies and activities of the City Council
have been directed toward creating a sustainable City
Government, creating a City prepared for growth
and opportunities, fostering a strong partnership
between City, Community and region, developing
better quality housing stock, and the redevelopment
of major corridors.
Residents and Staff Recognized as
Public Health Champions
I would like to congratulate City staff and residents
involved in the Thriving Wheat Ridge Project. Julie
Brisson, Parks and Recreation Manager for the City of Wheat
Ridge and Sergeant Paula Balafas with the Wheat Ridge Police
Department were chosen as winners of the Jefferson County
Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE) 2006
Public Health Champion of the Year Award. The Thriving Wheat
Ridge Project as well as community members Patty Allen
and Lisa Griffin-Seidel were also recognized as Public Health
Champions. The winners of the 2006 Public Health Champion
of the Year Award were honored by the Jefferson County
Board of Health and the Jefferson County Board of County
Commissioners on Thursday, April 5, 2007.
Inaugural State of the City Address
In May 2007, tune into Wheat Ridge Channel 8 to view
the inaugural State of the City Address. The purpose of this
program is to provide enhanced communication with our
citizens. The inaugural State of the City Address will
be broadcast on Channel 8 beginning May 14th, to view
a copy of the Channel 8 schedule visit the Web site at
www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, you can find the link to the
Channel 8 schedule under “Quick Links,” or under “About.”
D.I.R.T. Task Force
In January 2007, I created the Drainage, Infrastructure, Roads
and Trails (D.I.R.T.) Task Force to comprehensively evaluate
the identified city projects that are unfunded. The Task Force
was ratified by City Council on January 22, 2007 by a 8-0 vote.
In February, Mayor Jerry DiTullio helped Eugene Kiefel unveil a
plaque dedicated to his wife Leonore “Nora” Kiefel as part of
the Wheat Ridge Cyclery Expansion project.
Wheat Ridge City Council and city staff have identified over
$143 million of potential city projects. The WR2020 Executive
Director has identified up to $10 million of land banking and
development/redevelopment projects within the community.
The projects have been identified through various methods and
address various community needs. The City does not have the
financial resources or personnel to design and/or implement all
of these projects.
The purpose of the Task Force is to identify and prioritize
projects that will protect and improve the quality of life for
citizens, complement the business community and make
Wheat Ridge a City where citizens want to live, work, play and
become stakeholders within the community. The meetings are
being rebroadcast on Wheat Ridge Channel 8.
For more information on the Task Force, and to view a copy of
the Channel 8 schedule, please visit the Wheat Ridge Web site
at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, click on “Elected Officials,” again
on “Mayor’s Office,” and again on “D.I.R.T. Task Force.”
Wadsworth Corridor Study Continues
On March 26, 2007, the City of Wheat Ridge City Council
voted to endorse several concepts of the Wadsworth Corridor
Subarea Plan; however, the City Council did not adopt the
proposed Plan. I broke the tie vote providing for further study
and evaluation of possible impacts of the Plan.
The City Council directed staff to conduct further study of the
right-of-way needed to widen Wadsworth, including detailed
road design studies and design concepts for intersections.
Public involvement will be a key component of the additional
study. City Council requested that the final design concept be
brought before the Planning Commission and City Council
– Continued on page 8
Mayor
Connections
Interested in Running for City Office?
Jerry DiTullio
CIty Hall: 303-235-2800
303-237-4806
jerryditullio@comcast.net
Important Information All 2007 Candidates Need To Know
On November 6, 2007, City of
Wheat Ridge voters will have the
opportunity to elect four Council
members, one from each District,
a City Clerk, and a City Treasurer.
District I
Terry Womble
303-420-5335
t.womble@comcast.net
The City is divided into four
Districts, with two City
Councilmembers representing
each district. The seats up for
election in 2007 are:
Karen Berry
303-249-4570
khberry26@hotmail.com
District II
Wanda Sang
303-431-8390
sangjw@netzero.net
lDistrict
I – Karen Berry
lDistrict II – Wanda Sang
lDistrict III – Karen Adams
lDistrict IV – Larry Schulz
lCity Clerk – Michael Snow
lCity Treasurer – Mary Cavarra
Dean Gokey
303-423-4146
egokey@comcast.net
District III
Mike Stites
303-423-8360
BFTireCO@aol.com
All Council Members are in their
first terms in office and, therefore,
are eligible to run for re-election.
The City Clerk, Michael Snow,
was recently appointed to fulfill the
last year of a vacated term and is,
therefore, eligible for election to a
first full term. The position of City
Treasurer is also up for election.
Karen Adams
303-484-1503
klpa@comcast.net
District IV
Larry Schulz
303-736-9182
councilorschulz@
comcast.net
Lena Rotola
303-424-6582
City Treasurer
City Clerk
Micheal Snow
303-235-2823
msnow@
ci.wheatridge.co.us
Mary Cavarra
303-235-2810
mcavarra@
ci.wheatridge.co.us
3
To be a City Council, City Clerk or
City Treasurer candidate, you must
have attained the age of eighteen
years, be a Wheat Ridge resident
for at least 12 consecutive months
preceding the date of election; a
registered voter; and a resident of
the voting district the candidate
wants to represent.
Wheat Ridge Connections is produced and published
quarterly by the Wheat Ridge City Manager’s Office
and mailed as a source of news and information to all
residences and businesses in the City of Wheat Ridge.
Comments on the newsletter are welcome.
If you are interested in becoming
a candidate for City Council, City
Clerk, or City Treasurer, you need
to pick up a Candidate Information
Packet at the City Clerk’s Office
located at 7500 W. 29th Avenue.
To become a candidate, you must:
lPublicly
declare your candidacy.
lFile
a Candidate Affidavit form
with the City Clerk’s office
within 10 days of declaring
your candidacy and receiving
contributions.
lObtain
and submit a Nomination
Petition form through the City
Clerk’s Office. Your petition must
be signed by at least 25 registered
electors residing within your
District for Council candidates,
or within the City for City Clerk
and City Treasurer candidates.
Nomination petitions will be
available on August 7 at 8:00
a.m. and can be circulated from
August 7 to August 27 and
must be turned back in to the
City Clerk’s office by 5:00 p.m.
on August 27.
lComply with the Colorado
Campaign and Political Finance
procedures and requirements.
For additional information on the
upcoming November 6 election,
please contact the Wheat Ridge City
Clerk’s Office at 303-235-2823.
Please contact: City of Wheat Ridge
Attn: Heather Geyer, Assistant to the City Manager/PIO
7500 W. 29th Avenue | Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
303-235-2826 | hgeyer@ci.wheatridge.co.us
4Connections
www.WheatRidge2020.org/newdevelopments.php
Wheat Ridge 2020
Partners in a Vib
ib
brant Wheat Ridge
br
Randall Park home
demonstrates practical renovations
Just off the NW corner of Randall Park, a transformation
has taken place. A ranch home typical to the Randall Park
neighborhood was purchased by Wheat Ridge 2020 as a part
of their Home Investment Program and renovated to meet
today’s market demands.
Wheat Ridge 2020 partnered with Value-builders, a company
which pays all the costs of remodeling and staging houses
for sale, and then splits the net profit with the owner. About
$24,000 of updates were put into the home, including:
• All new windows and shutters,
• A complete kitchen remodel and expansion, doubling its size,
• A master bedroom remodel and a new laundry closet,
• Hand-crafted mantle for the fireplace,
• New electrical service, and
• New porch cover and exterior paint.
A public open house was held at 4300 Gray Street on
March 6 and over 100 community members and neighbors
toured the home. They gained ideas on how to do their own
remodels and voiced support for this type of investment in the
community.
The home was sold for the full asking price of $225,000 after
only a few days on the market. Wheat Ridge 2020 plans to
do more demonstration projects like this one in Randall Park
throughout the year.
WR2020 offers low-interest loans
for home improvements
Have you been considering getting a few of those “to do’s” off
your home improvement list this year? If you live in Wheat
Ridge between Sheridan and Wadsworth, you may qualify for
a low-interest loan from Wheat Ridge 2020.
The Home Investment Loan Program will offer loans for
improvements supported by the Neighborhood Revitalization
Strategy. Eligible properties must be owner-occupied and in
the program’s expanded service area between Sheridan and
Wadsworth and within the City of Wheat Ridge. The loans
will be for up to 80% of the cost of home renovations with
loan amounts between $5,000 and $30,000. The loans offered
will have no-interest for the first three years and 4% interest
for years four through ten; they are 10-year notes with a 20year amortization schedule.
Eligible project costs include exterior facade improvements,
landscaping, interior renovations, energy improvements, and
structural, mechanical & electrical repairs. All projects must
include exterior improvements visible from the street.
A complete overview of this loan program is available at
www.WheatRidge2020.org. For an application, please call
720-259-1030 or stop by the WR2020 offices at 4350
Wadsworth Blvd, Suite 420.
4300 Gray Street
To view the interior before and after photos, visit WR2020 online at www.WheatRidge2020.org/newdevelopments.php.
Before
Exterior
During
Light comes through new porch cover, old
awnings are replaced with decorative shutters,
again allowing more light.
Wheat Ridge 2020 | 720-259-1030 | Before and After Photos, Courtesy of WR2020.
After
New windows throughout.
Exterior repainted.
Old antennas removed.
Channel 8
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Tune into WR Channel 8, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. To view the most current Channel 8 schedule and programming
listings, visit the City Web site at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, click on “About” and “Channel 8” to view a copy of the schedule.
For questions or comments, please contact Heather Geyer, Assistant to the Ciyt Manager/PIO at 303-235-2826 or
E-mail: hgeyer@ci.wheatridge.co.us
City Council Meetings
City Council Meetings air live
on the 2nd and 4th Mondays
of each month. City Council
meetings will be rebroadcast on
the first, third, and 5th Mondays
of each month.
D.I.R.T. Task Force
D.I.R.T. (Drainage, Infrastructure,
Roads and Trails) Task Force
meetings will be replayed the
same night as the meeting or
on the Tuesday following the
meeting. D.I.R.T. meeting dates
and topics are as follows:
2/28/2007 – Parks, Trails
and Recreation;
3/7/2007 – Roadway and Streetscape Improvements;
3/21/2007 – Storm Sewer/
Drainage Improvements;
4/11/2007 – Power Line Under Grounding & Facility Improvements, Information and Technology Infrastructure;
4/23/2007 – Outcome of
Project Prioritization;
4/25/2007 – Wheat Ridge 2020
& Community Input and
5/9/2007 – Wrap Up Meeting:
Discussion of Funding
Options & Prioritization.
For up to date information
on D.I.R.T. Task Force meeting
rebroadcast days and times,
visit the City Web site at
www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, click
on “About” and “Channel 8”
to view a copy of the schedule.
Wheat Ridge Monthly Channel 8 Schedule
TIME
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MONDAY
City Council
Rebroadcast
Let's Talk
Metro Beat
TUESDAY
City Council
Rebroadcast
Let's Talk
Metro Beat
WEDNESDAY
City Council
Rebroadcast
Let's Talk
Metro Beat
Let's Talk
Let's Talk
Let's Talk
D.I.R.T.
Meeting
Rebroadcast
THURSDAY FRIDAY
City Council City Council
Rebroadcast Rebroadcast
Let's Talk
Let's Talk
Metro Beat Metro Beat
Let's Talk
Let's Talk
SATURDAY SUNDAY
City Council City Council
Rebroadcast Rebroadcast
Let's Talk
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Metro Beat Metro Beat
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Meeting
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D.I.R.T. Metro Voices
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Metro Beat
City Council City Council City Council City Council City Council City Council
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City Council
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Meeting
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City Council
City Council
City Council
Meeting* Metro Beat Rebroadcast Metro Beat Rebroadcast Metro Beat
D.I.R.T.
Meeting
Rebroadcast
Metro Voices
Let's Talk
Metro Voices
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6Connections
– Continued from page 1
Mayor Jerry DiTullio. “The City of
Wheat Ridge is committed to providing
better quality housing stock which
includes improving the condition of our
existing properties.”
The Administrative Model is a process
that is more efficient; establishes
appropriate and specific timelines for a
property owner to come into compliance;
establishes specific penalties for first,
second and third offenses; allows for
a timely hearing process before an
Administrative Hearing Officer if desired;
and includes a property abatement
process if necessary. Lastly, this
process also allows for a criminal code
enforcement process if needed.
Here is how the current Code
Enforcement Criminal Due Process
Model Works:
Sally Smith lives in Wheat Ridge and
her property has an old couch and other
junk stored on the grass on the side of her
house, and she has not maintained the
upkeep on her lawn which now has weeds
over 12” in height.
Currently a Community Service Officer
(CSO) would issue Sally a warning,
giving Sally 7 days to bring her property
into compliance, which would include
removing the junk from the yard and
cutting the grass to an acceptable height.
If Sally does not fix the problem, the
CSO has the discretion to issue a citation
or to continue to work with Sally to
clean up her property. If she pleads not
guilty, Sally would be scheduled to go to
Municipal Court and usually this takes
several months. During the meantime, the
“The criminal due process model, at
conditions in Sally’s yard will remain or
times, has been proven ineffective in
worsen, unless City tax dollars are spent to
achieving compliance from property
owners,” said City Manager Randy Young. abate (clean-up) her property.
“In other communities across the nation,
Here is how the Administrative Model
the Administrative Model has increased
compliance rates to 70 percent, which is a Process Will Work:
significant increase based on our low rate lA violation is reported from citizen
complaint or officer initiated;
of compliance in Wheat Ridge.”
lA violation notice is issued by a CSO
to the property owner/renter giving the
Questions, Comments, Concerns?
To learn more about whether or not your property owner or resident ten (10) days
to bring the property into compliance;
property is in compliance with the City
lA CSO will photograph the violations;
Code, see pages 6 and 7 to review the
lAfter ten (10) days the CSO will
FAQ’s. For specific questions regarding
code enforcement, contact City of Wheat recheck the property and if it is not
in compliance an administrative
Ridge Police Department Community
summons is issued to the violator
Services Unit at 303-235-2926.
which has a fine attached;
How can I report a code violation? If
lThe CSO will recheck the property
you would like to file a compliant and
for compliance and if the violation(s)
or report a code violation, please contact are corrected the property owner pays
the City of Wheat Ridge Community
the associated fine;
Services Unit at 303-235-2926.
lIf the violation(s) are not corrected the
property could be abated using the existing
process as defined in the City Code;
I am the tenant, not the property owner, am
lThe violator may contest the charge
I still held responsible for any code violations and request a hearing within five (5)
on the property which I rent?
days after the issuance of the citation;
lAn Administrative Hearing will be held
Yes, you are considered the responsible party
before an Administrative Hearing
whether you are the property owner or the
Officer no later than fourteen (14) days
tenant. The responsible party is considered
from the initial summons being issued;
to be any person who makes or causes any
lIf the Hearing Officer determines the
nuisance to exist, or who has possession or
violation exists the responsible party is
control of any real property or premises.
Who’s Responsible?
responsible for the cost of the abatement
(if an abatement was done), cost of
time involved for the city employees,
administrative costs and the fine;
lThe responsible party has thirty (30)
days to pay the bill or the property will
have a property tax lien placed against
it; and
lFines are preset; $150 for the first
violation, $250 for the second
violation, and $500 for the third
violation. After three violations the
owner could be charged criminally,
l
The property owner can be re-issued
an additional administrative summons
if they fail to bring the property into
compliance.
FAQ’s
About code enforcement in Wheat Ridge
Junk and Trash
Q: How long can someone store trash
and garbage on their property?
A: Trash and/or garbage may be stored on
a property for no longer than 7 days.
Q: Why can’t I store items on the side
of my house, backyard and/or in my
driveway?
A: It is unlawful to store trash or junk
in the view of the general public. You are
not allowed to store any items that are not
normally outside, such as refrigerators or
indoor furniture.
Q: What can be done about the trash and
garbage all over my neighbor’s property?
A: Contact the Wheat Ridge Police
Department Communications Center at the
non-emergency number at 303-237-2220
or the Community Services Unit at
303-235-2926 with a property address, a
detailed description of the problem and if
you choose, your contact information.
Property Condition
Q: Does my neighbor have to keep their
house in good repair?
A: Yes, all property owners/tenants are
responsible for the condition of their
property. It is unlawful to allow any
property to deteriorate through neglect or
abandonment. This includes: peeling or
faded paint; broken shutters or facia; bent,
broken or rusted gutters; broken windows
or screens; detached doors or screens; broken
or damaged fencing; damaged or dead
landscaping; cracked and/or potholed
cement or asphalt; presence of weeds in
gravel or paved parking areas.
Q: How tall can I let my grass or weeds
grow before I have to cut it?
A: It is unlawful to allow grass or weeds on
your property to exceed 12 inches in height.
Q: Are businesses liable to keep their
properties in a certain condition?
A: Yes, each business is required to
maintain their property in the condition free
of nuisance violations. Businesses are to keep
their property from becoming detrimental to
the health, safety, general welfare, or comfort
of the citizens of the city. Depending on
the business, vehicles can be stored on the
premises for up to 10 days. Outside storage
of trash, waste, junk, or litter is prohibited.
Vehicles
Q: Are inoperable/derelict vehicles
allowed on a property? What is
considered an inoperable vehicle?
A: You are allowed one inoperable vehicle
per property but it must be covered with
a commercial vehicle cover. A vehicle is
considered inoperable if it is not properly
licensed and insured; has flat tires;
missing body parts, engine, transmission,
windows, lights, or is otherwise legally or
mechanically inoperable.
Q: My neighbor’s vehicle is leaking fluids
into the street. What can be done?
A: Contact the Wheat Ridge Police
Department Communications Center
at the non-emergency number at
303-237-2220 or the Community Services
Unit at 303-235-2926 with a property
address, a detailed description of the problem
and if you choose, your contact information.
Q: Can I use tarps and/or sheets to cover
vehicles or items on my property?
A: No, all vehicles, recreational vehicles
and trailers must be covered with a
commercial vehicle cover. Any items
stored on the property must be stored in
a permanent structure such as a garage,
shed, or in the house out of the sight of the
general public.
Parking
Q: Where can I park my vehicle that
is for sale?
A: It is prohibited to park a vehicle for
sale on commercial property at anytime
within the City of Wheat Ridge. You are
allowed to park one vehicle at a time for
sale in your driveway or directly in front
of your property.
Q: What type of surface must my
recreational vehicle be parked on?
A: It is prohibited to park a recreational
vehicle or trailer on grass or dirt. All
vehicles must be parked on an approved
surface such as concrete, asphalt, brick or
gravel. All rock beds must be 6” deep and
contained within barriers.
Q: Where can I park a vehicle/trailer
on my property?
A: You can park a vehicle or trailer in your
driveway or on a prepared hard surface
consisting of gravel, asphalt, concrete, brick
pavers, or similar materials. Rock surfaces
must be 6 inches deep and be contained
within the parking pad with the use of
railroad ties, concrete curbs, etc. All trailers
must be parked at least 6 feet back from the
front property line.
Q: What are the requirements to park
a recreational vehicle or trailer on a
residential street?
A: You are allowed to park a trailer or
recreational vehicle on the street for up to
72 hours. All trailers must be attached to a
towing vehicle while parked on the street.
Moving the trailer/recreational vehicle to
another location and returning it back to
the street does not extend or restart the 72hour period.
Q: Can I park my semi-tractor or trailer
at my house on my days off?
A: A semi-tractor or trailer may only
be parked on a residential property if it
is actively being loaded or unloaded. A
semi-tractor or trailer cannot be parked on
any property within the city except at the
Truck Stop.
Q: Can I park my work truck at my house?
A: The City allows up to one commercial
vehicle to be parked on a residential
property, or on the street in front of the
residential property, provided it does not
exceed a one-ton chassis limit.
Recreational Vehicles
A recreational vehicle is defined as a
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vehicle, such as a recreational trailer,
tent camper trailer, pickup truck shell,
truck camper, travel trailer, motor home
or other vehicle with or without motive
power, designed and/or constructed to
travel or to attach to a motorized vehicle
for the purpose of travel on the public
thoroughfare and originally intended
and designed for human habitation.
Q: How many recreational vehicles
are allowed per property?
A: You are allowed a total of two
recreational vehicles per property, provided
the vehicles are parked according to the
City regulations.
Q: Can someone live in their recreational
vehicle or trailer that is parked on their
property?
A: No, it is not permitted within the City
of Wheat Ridge to use a recreational vehicle
or trailer as a living quarters at anytime.
A recreational vehicle or trailer may only
be used for such purpose in an approved
recreational vehicle park.
Signs
Q: Where and how can I post signs
in the City?
A: It is prohibited to post or affix any
sign to any utility or street sign post at any
time, i.e. garage sale signs or employment
opportunities flyers. Signs posted on private
property must be 2 feet back from the
sidewalk or 10 feet from the street or curb.
Firewood
Q: How much firewood can I store
on my property?
A: You are allowed to store up to 2 cords
of wood on your property, provided it
is neatly stacked. Any amount of wood
exceeding the 2 cord limit must be stored
completely out of public view, this includes
neighboring properties.
Garage Sales
Q: Can I have a Garage Sale at my home?
A: Wheat Ridge residents may have four
three-day Garage Sales per year. Residents
are required to obtain a Garage Sale permit
prior to the sale. Permits are available at
Wheat Ridge City Hall, Monday – Friday
from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
8Connections
Mayor’s Corner
– Continued from page 2
before October 23, 2007 for ratification and inclusion into the
Subarea Plan. Additionally, City Council will consider a budget
amendment to allocate additional funding up to $40,000
for the roadway design and intersection study, which will be
completed no later than September 1, 2007. City Council also
requested that following final approval of the Subarea Plan, the
City Council will consider adoption of an Art In Public Places
ordinance for the integration of public art and the promotion
of cultural events.
For more information on the Wadsworth Subarea Plan, visit the
City Web site at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, click on “Departments,”
and again on “Community Development.”
Non-Breed Specific Ordinance Addressing
Dangerous & Aggressive Dogs
In response to several metro area communities passing laws
making certain breeds of dogs unlawful in 2006, Jefferson
County communities began a cooperative effort to address
local concerns regarding dangerous animals beyond a specific
ban on pit bulls. This was an important step in recognizing
the issue of vicious and dangerous dogs applied to all breeds
of dogs and that an ordinance banning specific breeds was
not as effective. In 2007, the City Council passed Ordinance
No. 1382, amending Chapter 4 of the Wheat Ridge Code of
Laws Concerning the Regulation Of Animals. The amended
Ordinance also addresses the development of a county-wide
licensing program for dogs to require that dog owners have
their dog(s) licensed. This program will help address the
problem of dog owners moving from one jurisdiction to
another to avoid prosecution, but most importantly, to assist
in identifying and reuniting dog owners and their dogs if the
dog becomes lost. The county-wide dog licensing program is
awaiting approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement between
cities of Golden, Arvada, Lakewood, Westminster, and Wheat
Ridge and is expected to be up and running in July. For more
information on dog licensing in Wheat Ridge, please contact
the Community Services Unit at 303-235-2926 and see page
21 of this newsletter.
Cabela’s To Break Ground In Summer 2007
The Cabela’s project is moving forward and will break
ground this summer. In late March, Cabela’s announced
that construction of the store in Wheat Ridge will begin this
summer with preliminary site work and they plan to open the
Wheat Ridge store in late summer 2008. The Cabela’s store will
be part of a mixed retail development along I-70, north and
west of 32nd and Youngfield.
Following the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
issuing a signed FONSI “finding of no significant impact” on
the environmental assessment for the Cabela’s development, work
has already begun on highway improvements along Interstate
70/Highway 58. The Colorado Department of Transportation
(CDOT) began work on the I-70/HW 58 Interchange in March.
For up-to-date information on the highway project online visit:
http://www.dot.state.co.us/I70sh58/.
I want to thank the community for taking the time to voice
their opinions and concerns about the traffic impacts related to
the development. I believe this project has been a collaborative
effort with a great deal of time and energy put forth by the
Office of the Mayor and City Council, Office of the City
Manager and staff to make this project happen!
Carnation Festival — Save the Date!
The Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival is a family tradition in
our community. Make sure to mark your calendars for the
28th Annual Festival scheduled for Thursday, August 16,
Friday, August 17, and Saturday, August 18, 2007. The annual
parade will be held on Saturday, August 18, 2007. For more
information, visit the Carnation Festival Web site at
www.WheatRidgeCarnationFestival.org or contact
Mike Baran, Festival Chair at 303-237-8347.
If You Have Questions Or Comments
If you have questions or comments about the City of Wheat
Ridge, please contact your district City Council representative
or me at 303-235-2800. I can also be reached via e-mail at:
jerryditullio@comcast.net . The City Council, staff and I
encourage your involvement and participation in neighborhood
and community issues in the City of Wheat Ridge.
Wheat Ridge Vision 2020
Wheat Ridge is a family oriented residential
community with a range of quality homes,
mixed use urban villages and quality retail.
Serving our residents and serving as unique
regional destinations.
Our residents have great access to Denver and
the mountains, enjoy an active lifestyle, share
small-town values and take pride in
our community.
Protecting Your Home from
Wildfire
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9
www.firewise.com
Stay on guard with firewise
landscaping and maintenance
1
Create a safety zone or fire break around your home.
The safety goal of landscaping and
maintenance is very simple. Reduce the
amount of fuel immediately surrounding
your home. However, this does not mean
your landscape has to be barren. Some
plants are more fire resistive than others.
One of the most important things any
homeowner can do is to create a safety
zone or fire break around the house using
these fire resistive plants. Your safety
zone can consist of numerous varieties
of plants, including grasses, border
plantings, flowers and vegetables. Check
with your local fire officials about the
best species for your area.
In most areas, a safety zone should
be cleared away from your home for
a distance of not less than 30 feet. As
the slope of the lot increases, additional
clearance as far out as 100 feet may be
necessary. Clearance also depends on
vegetative conditions that provide ladder
fuels that enable fire to climb into trees.
Trees and shrubs are fine, as long as dead
or low-hanging branches are removed
and the height of ground vegetation
is controlled.
Be sure to remove all tree limbs around
your chimney, as well as any dead
branches that may hang over the roof.
Accumulated leaves, needles, and other
dead vegetation should also be removed.
Beyond 100 feet from the house, dead
wood and older trees should be removed
or thinned. Consult with your local
fire officials for specific guidelines
appropriate for your location. Keep
an eye on any limbs that may come in
contact with power lines. If you’re not
equipped to trim them youself, call the
power company and let them know
about the hazard.
2
Sweep your gutters, eaves
and roof regularly.
Keep your roof clear. When it comes
to routine maintenance, remember to
sweep your gutters, eaves, and roof on
a regular basis, especially during the hot,
dry weather of the fire season. Tinderdry needles and leaves are a fire waiting
to happen.
3
Stack firewood well away from
your home or outbuildings.
Although it is very convenient to stack
firewood under the porch or the eaves,
it is not in your best interest to do so.
To say the least, you are inviting trouble.
Sparks from a grass fire can ignite
firewood and quickly spread inside. Stack
your firewood well away from anything
that is combustible, including fences
and outbuildings.
4
Avoid using outdoor incinerators
for household trash.
Outdoor incinerators or burning barrels
for household trash are illegal in many
areas of the country because they generate
wind-blown sparks. If they are allowed,
a permit is usually required, so you need
to check with your local fire protection
agency about laws and ordinances.
5
Install smoke detectors.
Install as many smoke detectors as local
regulations require and ask your fire
officials to help you plan and rehearse
a home fire escape drill. Regular home
fire drills can save your family in
an emergency.
6
Have ample safety exits in
case of fire.
Your home should have at least two
ground level doors to use as safety exits
in case of fire, and each room should
have at least two means of escape,
including a door and a window leading
to the outside. This is especially true
in bedrooms.
Do these things and you have an
excellent chance of protecting
your home from wildfire. For more
information on the Firewise program
contact the Wheat Ridge Fire
Protection District Training Division
at 303-403-5905.
Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District
3880 Upham Street
Wheat Ridge, CO. 80033
P.O. Box 507
Wheat Ridge, CO 80034-0507
www.wrfire.org
10
Wheat Ridge Municipal
Pool at Anderson Park
Approved for Renovation
Connections
Seniors’ Resource Center
Transportation Services
Seniors’ Resource Center (SRC) Transportation Services
provides accessible and affordable door-to-door transportation
to older adults and persons with mobility impairments. Riders
can travel to medical/dental appointments, grocery shopping,
meals sites and community-based care programs.
FAQ
SRC also uses many small service providers
to maximize funding and extend service
hours and boundaries. A variety of vehicles
are used, including sedans, accessible minivans, and cabs. Safety and quality service is
our goal.
The Wheat Ridge City Council
has approved the funding for the
renovation of the outdoor pool at
Anderson Park. The park is located
at 4355 Field Street.
The pool was originally constructed
in 1980 and is in need of repair and
renovation. It will be open for business
this summer in it’s current condition
while the new design work is being
completed. Construction will begin in
the fall with a projected opening date
of summer 2008.
SRC believes that community transit
must offer access to needed services.
SRC Transportation ensures individual
independence, provides mobility for
self sufficiency and the opportunity to
participate fully in the life of the community.
Preliminary ideas for the renovation
include the addition of new water
play features, slide replacement, and a
competitive pool. The renovation will
also address providing shade in the pool
deck area and minor improvements to
the bath house.
For more information or to schedule a ride,
please call 303-235-6972/6974.
Watch for details on this exciting project
in the coming months!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I schedule a ride?
To schedule a ride, call 303-235-6972 or 6974 from
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please have
the following information ready when you call:
• Name of rider
• Date of appointment
• Time of appointment
• Pick-up address
• Length of appointment
• Drop off address
• Any mobility needs?
• Drop off phone number
• Emergency contact’s phone number
• Will you have an escort?
How much does a ride cost?
Each ride costs SRC approximately $23 to provide.
We receive funding from many generous sources,
but still need you and your family’s financial help.
There are minimal fees for some trip types. For most
trips we only encourage you to make a donation. Call
303-235-6972/6974 to find out how much a trip will cost.
When should I call in to reserve a ride?
As soon as you know when you will need a ride, call
303-235-6972/6974 to make a reservation. At least 2 to 3
working days advance notice is strongly recommended and you
may contact us up to 2 weeks ahead of your ride.
How do I cancel a ride?
Please call 303-235-6999 to cancel a ride. It is very important
to cancel your ride if you no longer need it. This can open up
space for others who are waiting for our services.
Is there transportation services in the mountain area?
SRC Transportation provides service in Evergreen and
surrounding mountain areas on a fee and donation basis.
Call 303-674-2843 to schedule a ride in those areas.
Safety Lectures
for Citizens Age 60 and Over
Now Offered by the Wheat Ridge Police Department
T
he Wheat Ridge Police Department (WRPD) began
hosting a lecture series on Senior Safety in April of 2007.
The classes are free to citizens ages 60+ who live or work in
the City of Wheat Ridge. The Safety Lectures will feature
topics including identifying con games and home repair fraud,
avoiding pick pockets/purse thefts, identity theft, mortgage
fraud, Internet scams, door-to-door magazine scams, bank
fraud, and how to avoid victimization.
Most classes will be held at the WRPD located at 7500
W. 29th Avenue, although some classes will be held at the
Wheat Ridge Senior/Community Center at 6363 W. 35th
Avenue. Class size is limited. Please contact Sergeant Paula
Balafas at 303-235-2941 or pbalafas@ci.wheatridge.co.us to
reserve your place in one of the classes and get more details.
Light snacks will be provided, and participants are eligible to
receive a free fanny pack, thanks to an Edward Byrne Memorial
Justice Assistance Grant, which has made this program possible.
Did you know?
Did you know that RTD sponsors a non-stop airport
shuttle serving Wheat Ridge and Arvada? The A-Line
picks up passengers from the Olde Town park-n-Ride
(near 55th & Wadsworth) and takes them directly to DIA,
dropping them right at their airline.
Each shuttle departs the park-n-Ride every hour at the top
of the hour (5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.), taking only 35-40
minutes to get passengers to the terminal. Return trips
pickup on Island 3 outside of Door 505 (east side) and Door
512 (west side), leaving DIA for Olde Town every hour at
ten minutes before the hour (6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.).
Thanks to RTD and local government support, the cost
is only $12.00 one way and $20.00 roundtrip ($9 and $16
for seniors and students). For additional information, call
the A-Line hotline 720-898-7554; visit the Web site
www.aline2dia.com; or call Ride Provide, 303-420-2589.
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11
Safety Lecture Schedule
April
25
Wednesday • 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m.
May
2
9
22
June
6
13 27 July
12 23 WR Senior/Community Center
Wednesday • 9:00 a.m.—11:00 a.m. • WRPD
Wednesday • 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m. • WRPD
Tuesday • 3:30 p.m.—5:30 p.m. • WRPD
Wednesday • 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m. • WRPD
Wednesday • 1:00 p.m.—3:00 p.m. • WRPD
Wednesday • 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m. • WRPD
Thursday • 9:00 a.m.—11:00 a.m. • WRPD
Monday • 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m. • WRPD
12 Connections
Business
Wheat Ridge A Great Place To Do Business –
News from the Office of Economic Development
Wheat Ridge is a great
place to do business!
In partnership with
the local business
community, Wheat
Ridge provides support
to local business owners who might
be thinking about starting a business
or expanding a business. The goal of
the Office of Economic Development
is to provide guidance to existing and
prospective businesses in Wheat Ridge in
order to enhance every business’ success.
Recently, the City of Wheat Ridge
hired Ryan Stachelski as the Economic
Development Specialist to help move
the initiatives of the Office of Economic
Development forward. Ryan will be
instrumental in serving as a resource for
local businesses and serving as a liaison
between the business community and
the City of Wheat Ridge.
Ryan comes to Wheat Ridge from
serving in the U.S. Peace Corps. He
served as a business advisor for the Ho
Municipality in the Volta Region of
Ghana, Africa. Before serving in the
Peace Corps Ryan earned a Master’s
Degree in Community and Economic
Development. While Ryan was working
on his Master’s Degree, he served as
the Community Development Officer
for the City of Bloomington, Illinois’
non-profit organization “Uniquely
Bloomington!” Ryan brings several
years of community and economic
development experience to the City
of Wheat Ridge.
For more information on business
resources or other questions, please feel free
to contact Ryan at: 303-330-3166 or
rstachelski@ci.wheatridge.co.us. Ryan’s
office is currently located in the 1stBank
Building, 4350 Wadsworth Blvd.
Suite 420.
Wheat Ridge Resources
For Local Businesses
phone at 303-969-0763. A full list of training sessions and dates
are listed on the Enterprise Wheat Ridge Web site.
If you are looking to get involved in the local business
community in Wheat Ridge, there are a couple great
resources to take advantage of:
The Jefferson County Business Resource Center (JCBRC) is
an exciting resource for the Wheat Ridge business community.
This new center has a variety of resources for both startup companies and existing business at little or no cost to
businesses. For example, for a start-up business, prospective
owners can visit the JCBRC to get help in basics of business
planning, learning about how to best finance a business, and
how to use marketing analysis to build your business plan.
Enterprise Wheat Ridge
Enterprise Wheat Ridge offers networking breakfasts which
have guest speakers that educate, inspire, and motivate the
business community. In addition to these events, Enterprise
Wheat Ridge also offers trainings to build your business.
Some of the different trainings offered in 2007 include:
“Branding your Business,” “Effective Communication,”
“Selling to Personality Styles,” and “Leading and Selling
Across Generations.”
If you are interested in attending one of the classes and/or
becoming a member of Enterprise Wheat Ridge you can contact
Enterprise Wheat Ridge online at www.ewheatridge.com or by
Jefferson County Business Resource Center
For existing businesses, the JCBRC provides support
in ongoing business needs assessment, financing, and
workforce training.
For a complete list of all the services offered by the
JCBRC, please call 303-996-8976 or visit the Web site at
www.jeffcobrc.org. The JCBRC is located at 1667 Cole Blvd.
Bldg. 19 Suite 400 in Lakewood.
2007 Large ItemPick Up Program
The 2007 Large Item Pick Up Program for residences (not
including businesses or apartment complexes) located within
Wheat Ridge is scheduled for SATURDAY, JUNE 9, 2007,
and SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2007.
What is the Large Item Pickup Program?
l
l
l
The FIRST 500 City of Wheat Ridge residences that
register for the program will be eligible to have ONE large
bulky household item picked up (see item examples below),
that your residential trash service will not collect without
extra payment.
Up to 250 residences will have a pickup scheduled on
Saturday, June 9, 2007.
Up to 250 residences will have a pickup scheduled on
Saturday, June 16, 2007.
Telephone Registration & Program Information:
303-205-7600
l Registration Dates & Times: Tuesday, May 1, 2007 thru
Friday, May 25, 2007 Monday thru Friday only, between
the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
l Verification of Wheat Ridge residency, and pre-approval of
the type of item to be picked up will be required at the
time of registration.
l Remember, only the first 500 Registrants will be eligible for the program!
Additional large items for pick up
l If you wish to have additional large items picked up,
you must contact EDS, Waste Solutions, Inc. at
303-278-8600, no later than one (1) week prior to your
scheduled large item pick up date to determine costs and
availability of this service. THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE WILL NOT PAY FOR THOSE COSTS TO
PICK UP ADDITIONAL LARGE ITEMS.
Program Guidelines
Only ONE, pre-approved large item will be picked up.
Pickup hours are 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There is no
schedule of when pickups will be made on any particular
street; therefore, your large item must be at the curb by
7 a.m. on the pick up date you have registered for.
l Do not place your large pick up item with refuse to be
collected by your regular collection service.
l Pickups will be made from private streets only if they are
wider than 20 feet and loop to a public street, connect to
a public street at both ends, or end with a standard size
cul-de-sac.
l Trashcans will not be emptied, trash bags and additional
large items will not be picked up.
l A large item will not be picked up if two workers cannot
safely lift it into the collection truck. A wood stove, for
example, will not be picked up due to its weight.
l
l
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13
Examples of a large items we will pick up:
l ONE: piece of furniture, bed including mattress, box spring
& frame, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer,
sink, toilet, bathtub, door, window, water heater, gas grill
(no propane bottle), swing set (disassembled) or bicycle
Examples of a large items we will not pick up:
(see recycling information below):
l Refrigerator, freezer, or any item with freon; microwave oven
l Wood stove
l Television, computer monitor, and computer
l Garbage bags full of trash or loose debris that will fit into
a garbage bag or trashcan
l Trees, branches, or shrubs or mixed branches and trash
l Household chemicals and paint, fuel tanks or cans,
batteries, propane bottles, or closed drums
l Gravel, asphalt, pipe (any type or size), rock, sod, earth,
concrete, brick, block, pavers, or roofing materials
l Tires
l Engine blocks, car parts, or any small gas engine equipment
l Materials or debris from a private contractor’s work
Recycling Information
(Call for hours, locations, and fees)
Antifreeze................Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Appliances (refrigerator, freezer)
Unwanted Appliances, 303-430-7142
Iliff ’s Appliance Removal Service, 303-320-0258
Batteries (alkaline, car) Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Rocky Mountain Battery Service, 303-423-7142
Building Materials...............Bud’s Warehouse, 303-296-3990
Car Parts....................Action Recycling Center, 303-424-1600
Chemical, Cleaners
Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Engine Blocks............Action Recycling Center, 303-424-1600
E Waste, Computers, TV’s, etc.
Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Microwave Ovens Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Motor Oil Auto Zone, 303-456-0811
Pep Boys, 303-420-7444
City of Wheat Ridge, 303-205-7600
Paints......................Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Poisons...................Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Televisions..............Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Tires...............................................Big O Tires, 303-425-5545
Tree limbs, branches, etc.
Rooney Road Recycling, 1-800-449-7587
Small Gas Engine Equipment
Action Recycling Center, 303-424-1600
14
Connections
Department Spotlight:
The City Clerk’s Office —
There Is More To It Than Just Taking Minutes!
H
ave you ever wondered when you are
sitting in a Wheat Ridge restaurant
enjoying a glass of wine, how the
restaurant got their liquor license?
Or when you vote in an election,
who organizes it? Better yet, when
you are doing research and need to find
information that dates back to the 1970s?
The City of Wheat Ridge Office of the
City Clerk is responsible for managing
and providing accurate information for
the Wheat Ridge community.
or her community and vote, exercising
the most fundamental right as a citizen
in the U.S.”
In 2007, the Wheat Ridge City Clerk’s
Office underwent a change in leadership.
With the election of Pam Anderson,
former City Clerk to Jefferson County
Clerk and Recorder, the City Council
appointed Michael Snow to fulfill the
remainder of Anderson’s term which is
up in November 2007.
“I take very seriously, the position of
City Clerk, in particular the Clerk’s
obligation that is spoken less of – that is,
the access to and the communication of
this information to the citizens of Wheat
Ridge,“ added Michael.
“Appointment to the position of City
Clerk is truly a great honor, and I am
fortunate to have this opportunity to
serve the Wheat Ridge community,”
said City Clerk Michael Snow.
Beyond taking minutes and keeping the
official record of City Council Meetings,
there is a great deal of work that goes
on behind the scenes in the Office of
the City Clerk. “In government, at all
levels, information is invaluable,” said
Michael. “It is information that gives
the citizen the power to choose to get
involved in his or her government and
make a difference. An informed citizen
is more likely to take an interest in his
In Wheat Ridge, the position was created
with the City’s incorporation in 1969.
The Office of the City Clerk consists
of the Clerk, a Deputy City Clerk, an
Administrative Assistant and a part-time
Receptionist. All these positions play an
important role in managing information
for Wheat Ridge.
The City Clerk’s Office stores records
of Wheat Ridge information and
documents and keeps meeting minutes
to provide a history of Wheat Ridge.
Documents include ordinances,
resolutions, meeting minutes, official
deeds, leases, contracts, and other
agreements. The City Clerk also
coordinates all Wheat Ridge elections
making certain residents have an
opportunity to vote for elected officials
and vote on issues.
The Office of the City Clerk also
handles the posting of all public notices,
the administration and maintenance
of liquor licenses, records and
applications for City volunteer Boards
and Commissions. “Wheat Ridge is
a certified U.S. Passport application
acceptance agency for the U.S. State
Department,” said Michael. “This
is a convenient service which allows
citizens to come to City Hall to apply
for a passport.” Ultimately, all of these
activities play an important role in
providing accurate, timely, and complete
information to meet the needs of the
City’s customers.
“As Wheat Ridge City Clerk, I am always
looking for ways to improve the way
and manner in which the City’s business
and government is communicated to
and accessed by the public. An image of
transparency is central to maintaining
trust and openness in the relationship
between the community and our local
government.”
Staff in the Office of the City Clerk
strive to enhance the way they deliver
services daily. Beginning in 2005, the
Office of the City Clerk undertook a
city-wide records Management Program
Implementation Plan to digitize City
records. The Office of the Clerk also
implemented indexing and digital
database pilot system in concert with the
Information and Technology Division
in Wheat Ridge as a way to organize
digital records. With work completed on
the digital database system, the Office
of the City Clerk is already working to
expand the program. Implementation
of an agenda management system for
community access on the City Web site
is also under development.
Connections
At Your Service
Remember the Office of the City Clerk is here to serve you. City Clerk Michael
Snow and his staff welcome comments, suggestions and feedback. The City
Clerk’s Office is located at Wheat Ridge City Hall, 7500 W. 29th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033.
City Clerk
Michael Snow
Phone: 303-235-2823
Fax: 303-234-5924
E-mail: msnow@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Deputy City Clerk
Christa Jones
Phone: 303-235-2816
E-mail: cjones@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Administrative Assistant
Janice Smothers
Phone: 303-235-2815
E-mail: jsmothers@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Receptionist
Jean Hughes
Phone: 303-235-5900
E-mail: jhughes@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Temporary Dumpsters and
Storage Containers
With summer approaching, and the onset of residential and commercial projects
at hand, the City would like to remind citizens that permits are required for
temporary dumpsters and storage containers. A permit would not be required if
there is an active construction project taking place on the property. Dumpsters or
storage containers must be located on private property. If it is impractical to locate
them on private property, a right-of-way permit application may be submitted to
the Public Works Department. Temporary dumpsters and storage containers shall
not be located so they create a sight, traffic, or safety obstruction. Dumpsters and
storage containers must be removed from the property within fifteen (15) days of
completion of the project.
A permit for a temporary dumpster or storage container may be obtained from
the Building Department for a cost of $35.00. The temporary dumpster or storage
container must be removed from the property within fifteen (15) days of the issuance
of the permit.
It is also unlawful for any person to place any object on any sidewalk, public
highway, street or alley in the City which causes an obstruction.
These ordinances are detailed in the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws Chapter 26-614
(D) and Chapter 16-67. All City of Wheat Ridge Municipal Codes are available on
the city’s Web site at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us.
The Building Department is located at Wheat Ridge City Hall, 7500 W. 29th Avenue,
and may be contacted at 303-235-2855.
15
City Clerk
Michael Snow
Michael was appointed
City Clerk by the
Wheat Ridge City
Council in January
2007. He is a native
of Wheat Ridge, born
and raised here. As a
young boy, Michael
attended school in
Jefferson County, and later attended
Colorado State University where he
earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree
and later the University of Colorado
for a Masters Degree in Elementary
Education. “I have been fortunate to
use my skills and talents in a variety
of capacities ranging from Teaching,
Youth Counseling and Environmental
Advocacy to Telecommunications
Engineering, small business ownership,
and now public office,” said Michael.
Recently married, Michael and his wife
Jennifer live in Wheat Ridge and plan to
raise a family here.
“As a resident, and as City Clerk, I am
very invested in what Wheat Ridge is
today, and what I hope it will become
in the future. My involvement in the
City of Wheat Ridge began as a small
boy when my mother, Nancy Snow,
ran for City Council. She recruited
me to help her campaign, build signs,
stuff envelopes and deliver literature
door-to-door. I am proud to say that I
watched her serve a total of three terms
as a Councilmember as well as her years
of service on volunteer boards and in
grass-roots neighborhood campaigns
— all while my own passion for local
government was growing.”
16
Connections
Police
DRIVE
Drive 65
Wheat Ridge Police Launches
I
Program On I-70
n March 2007, the Wheat Ridge
Police Department launched a
new traffic enforcement program
known as “Drive 65” to promote
safe driving, reduce accidents, decrease
accident related injuries and deaths, and
limit traffic delays along the I-70 corridor
in the City of Wheat Ridge.
of the first program, the Police
Department will evaluate data to
determine the effectiveness of the
program as recommended by the
National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration.
“The Wheat Ridge Police Department is
dedicated to providing safe travel for our
citizens and the motorists passing through
along the I-70 corridor and on the innercity and residential roads of Wheat
Ridge,” said Police Chief Dan Brennan.
I-70 Stats in Wheat Ridge
lIn
In 2005, the Wheat Ridge Police
Department investigated over 269
traffic accidents on the 5-mile stretch
of I-70 that divides the City. There were
approximately 213 property-damage
related accidents, 55 personal-injury
accidents, and one fatal accident. While
total accident statistics are not yet
available; Wheat Ridge experienced
three fatal accidents on I-70 in 2006.
“We are hopeful that the DRIVE 65
program has a positive impact on driving
behaviors and that we see a reduction
in the number of accidents and traffic
violations on the I-70 corridor through
Wheat Ridge,” added Chief Brennan.
DRIVE 65 will continue through
August 31, 2007. Following the end
2004 the average daily traffic flow
for I-70 at West 32nd Avenue was
81,400 cars per day, or 56.5 cars per
minute (eastbound/westbound). In
2004 the average daily traffic flow
for I-70 at Wadsworth Boulevard was
133,400 cars per day, or 92.6 cars per
minute (eastbound/westbound). It
is expected that these numbers will
continue to increase.
lDid
you know that the 5-mile portion
of I-70 that divides the City of Wheat
Ridge is an area frequently backed up
by traffic accidents? Vehicular accidents
cause large amounts of property
damage, minor to serious injury, and/
or death. Most of these accidents, the
traffic control around the accident,
and the subsequent investigation, often
require multiple officers to respond to
the scene. This is a heavy draw on the
officer resources necessary to respond
to calls in the rest of the city.
For more information on DRIVE 65,
please contact the Wheat Ridge Police
Department at 303-235-2932.
DRIVE 65 Program Goals:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Decrease traffic related
injuries and deaths.
Reduce the number and
severity of traffic accidents
on I-70.
Limit traffic delays and
congestion.
Increase the police
presence along the I-70
corridor.
Increase the number of
traffic summonses issued
on I-70.
Reinstate a program to
enforce truck weight and
safety laws on I-70.
DRIVE 65 Program will target
specific driving violations:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Speeding
Following Too Closely
Unsafe Lane Changes
Failing to Use Turn Signals
Aggressive driving actions
DRIVE 65 program
enforcement details:
A.
B.
C.
Increase traffic enforcement
on I-70 by the Traffic
Enforcement Team and Patrol Operations Division.
Work in partnership with
surrounding communities to
increase the police presence
on I-70 both east and west of
the Wheat Ridge City limits
with neighboring law
enforcement agencies.
Use unmarked police vehicles
for traffic enforcement.
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17
Wheat Ridge Police Department Partners with Students and Staff of Area
High Schools for Crisis Intervention Training
In 2007, the Wheat Ridge Police Department
kicked-off a new specialized training,
“Communication and Response Strategies
for Peer Counselors” to familiarize high
school peer counselors and school staff with
crisis intervention theory and techniques,
as well as behaviors and symptoms associated
with selected mental illnesses.
“Students and school staff from both Wheat Ridge and
Jefferson High Schools attended this training on January 31,
2007,” said Commander Joe Cassa. “The training was well
received by the participants and we had a great time teaching
them about crisis intervention and communication strategies.”
are provided the opportunity to participate in “real life” role
play scenario’s provided by professional role players and Crisis
Intervention Team (C.I.T.) trained facilitators.
The training was designed through a community partnership
involving Belinda Hoole, President of Crisis Company, Betsy
Thompson, Director of Student Services for Jefferson County
Public Schools, and Joe Cassa, Division Commander with the
Wheat Ridge Police Department.
For more information on CIT training, please contact
Division Commander Joe Cassa at 303-235-2933.
The training focused on teaching peer counselors and school
staff various communication skills that can be effectively used
when a peer counselor is responding to and dealing with
incidents where person(s) may be experiencing a mental illness,
and/or extreme emotions. Peer counselors and school staff
Crime Free Programs Aimed to
Help in Revitalizing Wheat Ridge
In the spring of 2007, the City of Wheat
Ridge Police Department has begun to
reinstate the Crime Free Hotel/Motel
and Crime Free Multi-Housing programs
once coordinated by the City.
The Crime Free Hotel/Motel Program
is a three-phase certification program
for hotels and motels of all sizes.
The first phase is the completion of
a four hour training program taught
by law enforcement personnel, and
supplemented with guest speakers.
Phase two of the program involves a
security inspection of the property, using
theories of Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design. Phase three is
full certification, with a certificate being
issued, signs posted that announce
that the property has joined the police
department’s Crime Free program,
and allowing the owner to use the Crime
Free logo to advertise their property.
The Crime Free Multi-Housing Program
is also a three-phase certification
program, but focuses on apartment
communities. The three phases are
essentially the same, although the
training program for owners, managers
and staff members consists of an eight
hour block of training.
Incentives for property owners/managers
to participate in these two programs
include helping to:
lDecrease criminal activity
lProvide a safer environment
lEncourage networking between property owners (and the police)
lReduce
maintenance costs
lMinimize litigation
lMaintain/retain inventory/profits
Property owners who have questions
about the program are encouraged to
contact Officer Kyle Eversole, Crime
Prevention Officer at: 303-235-2948
or keversole@ci.wheatridge.co.us.
18
Connections
RECREATION
Wat
Wheat Ridge
Open
Space
Updates
Redecking of the Charlie Brown
Bridge located along the Clear
Creek Trail at Clear Creek
and Carr Street will begin on
April 2nd and is scheduled for
completion by mid-May. The
construction will be completed
at night. As a reminder, the
Clear Creek Trail is always
closed after sunset. The City of Wheat Ridge Parks
and Recreation Department
will be taking part in a multiagency National Trails Day
celebration on Saturday,
June 2nd from 9:00 to 11:00
a.m. As part of the Trails Day
celebration, information stops
will be available along the
Clear Creek Trail from Wheat
Ridge to Golden. The event is
free. For additional information
on the event, you may contact
the Wheat Ridge Parks
Department at 303-205-7552.
FITNESS AND WELLNESS
Pilates Mat
Ages 16+
Pilates works everything from the
belly to aligning the body for better
athletic performance and health.
Pilates Reformer Classes
Ages 16+
The Pilates Reformer is a machine
that helps people develop well-toned
muscles, balance, strength, and
flexibility. Great for back or other
orthopedic concerns.
Massage
Ages 12+
Massage can increase flexibility,
improve muscle and tendon
elasticity, enhance circulation,
reduce stress, and more.
Infant/Child/Adult CPR
and First Aid
Ages 11+
Classes are taught with new CPR
and First Aid standards which were
updated by the American Red Cross
recently.
50+ Yoga
Ages 50+
Increase flexibility and strength while
improving balance, circulation,
breathing, relief, and more.
DANCE
Beginning Belly Dance
Ages 12+
Learn the basics of the art of Belly
Dance. This dance form will help
develop discipline, dedication,
strength, flexibility, and balance.
ACTIVITIES FOR PEOPLE
WITH DISABILITIES
Wheat Ridge
Stationary Try-athlon
Ages 18+
Tryathlon will consist of a 15 minute
swim/raging river walk, 20 minutes of
biking, and a 30 minute walk/run
using the Wheat Ridge Recreation
Center’s cardio equipment. Individual
and unified teams welcome.
Wheat Ridge Parks
and Recreation
ch
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Parent/Tot Horseback Riding
Ages 4+ with adult
Parent will ride double with child on
very gentle horse from Wild West
Ranch. One child per adult.
Hunter’s Education
All Ages
Division of Wildlife class that teaches
hunter safety. The first night’s class
is held at the Wheat Ridge
Recreation Center with an internet
study between the first and last
night. The last night’s class is held at
the Division of Wildlife’s gun range.
SPORTS
Down ‘n’ Dirty
Dodgeball Tournament
Ages 16+
Round robin tournament will be
played outdoors at Anderson park
with t-shirts and a trophy for the
winning team.
TEEN/ADULT
Hollywood Legends and
Big Band Stars
Ages 12+
This popular Monday evening series
will touch on the glamorous and
private lives of the Andrew Sisters,
Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, and
more.
The Art and Life of Frida Kahlo
Ages 12+
Explore the flamboyant, surreal, and
controversial life and art of artist Frida
Kahloe.
Adventuring with Boldness
Ages 12+
Program delves into the lives of ten
of the greatest American explorers
and their historic expeditions
including men such as Lewis and
Clark, Zebulon Pike, and John
Wesley Powell.
Kickball League
Ages 16+
Here’s a chance for friends to get
together for laughs, exercise and a
bit of inner child fun. Ten week
league.
PARENT/TOT
Ages 6-14
Pre-Weeshool
Ages 18 months - 3 yrs w/adult
Alphabet, numbers, colors, shapes,
sign language and sing-a -longs are
presented in many activities. Class
includes projects, stories, and snack.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Family Play in the Park
Ages walking - 3 yrs w/adult
Parent and child will get involved in
games, arts and crafts and other
activities. It’s a great first class for
tots to socialize with other children.
Class held at Anderson Park, 4355
Field St.
such as rock climbing, basketball,
Days:
Monday - Friday
At the Summer Sun Camp,
children will enjoy activities at the
Wheat Ridge Recreation Center,
swimming, games, arts and crafts,
wellness activities, AND exciting
field trips! Weekly sign-up
includes a five day/week option or
a three day/week option that
caters to family schedules.
For class dates, times and for more information, call 303-231-1300.
City of Wheat Ridge’s
Connections
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Open House
The City of Wheat Ridge has recently completed preparation of a
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan exhibit, designed to inventory
existing bicycle and pedestrian compatible facilities located
throughout Wheat Ridge, and to identify the most appropriate
locations for future bicycle and pedestrian compatible routes.
Over the past year, City staff has spent considerable time
generating the first draft of the Master Plan, utilizing the best
in-house resources available to inventory existing routes, while
positioning proposed routes to ensure a more connected and
accessible community. During its development, the Master
Plan was also compared with similar master plans in adjacent
communities to provide continuity to existing and proposed
bicycle and pedestrian compatible routes outside of Wheat
Ridge Boundaries.
The City would like to invite citizens, user groups and stakeholders to comment on the City’s current draft of the Bicycle
and Pedestrian Master Plan. The goal of receiving comments
is to gain a deeper insight and specific recommendations
from the community pertaining to the proposed Bicycle and
Pedestrian routes and ultimately revise the Master Plan to its
19
final comprehensive form. The resulting plan will guide the
implementation of future projects and ensure a more connected
and accessible community.
Citizens are invited to a Public Open House to solicit
comments on the Wheat Ridge Bicycle/Pedestrian Master Plan.
The Open House will be held on the evening of May 15, 2007,
from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the WR Recreation Center (40th &
Kipling) in the Carnation Room.
In advance of the Open House, citizens and stakeholders
are encouraged to view and comment on the current draft
of the Master Plan located on the City Web site, located at:
“www.ci.wheatridge.co.us” – follow links to the Master
Plan located on the Public Works Department home page.
Additional information on how to send your comments to
the City are located on this page.
For additional information or if you would like to arrange to view
the current Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan in person at City
Hall, please contact Engineering Technician Jason L. Bray during
normal working hours at (303) 235-2868.
Thriving Wheat Ridge Initiative Receives Funding
from LiveWell Colorado to Promote Healthy Eating and Active Living
The City of Wheat Ridge has been
awarded $217,862 in LiveWell Colorado
grant funds in 2007 to support the
Thriving Wheat Ridge (TWR) Initiative
in addition to new programs to promote
healthy living in the community.
TWR initiative. TWR is a coalition
of concerned community and
governmental groups committed
to improving the healthy eating and
active living (HEAL) behaviors and
opportunities for the students, residents,
workers and businesses of Wheat Ridge.
LiveWell Colorado is a statewide initiative The Wheat Ridge Recreation Division
aimed at reducing overweight/obesity
will be using $15,000 in grant funds to
rates and related chronic diseases.
support new programs in 2007 such as
LiveWell is a collaborative partnership
after school programs, a preschool sports
between foundations, health care
development program, and a tandem bike
organizations, non-profit organizations,
“borrow a bike” program.
and state and local public health agencies.
LiveWell Colorado engages and supports TWR will also be working with
communities in the development and
the business sector in creating HEAL
implementation of policies, programs,
opportunities in the way of compiling
and environmental strategies that
a “Healthy Living Coupon Book”,
prevent obesity and obesity-related
implement the Healthy Restaurants
chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular
Initiative, and provide technical
disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension
assistant to local businesses and business
and asthma.
associations on worksite wellness. TWR
will work with schools to increase their
capacity to promote, implement and
The Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation
sustain HEAL activities and partner with
Department will benefit from funds
community groups to enhance HEAL
received from LiveWell to support the
resources and building community
capacity to promote healthy living in
Wheat Ridge.
For more information on Thriving Wheat
Ridge, please contact the Wheat Ridge
Recreation Center at 303-231-1300.
20
Connections
The Stormwater Program
Logo Art Contest
10 Things
Winners!
You Can Do to Prevent Stormwater
Runoff Pollution From The City
of Wheat Ridge Stormwater
Management Program
The official logo for the City of Wheat Ridge
Stormwater Program has been selected! Eighty five
exceptional entries were submitted to the art logo
contest and were judged by a panel of five employees.
Each student who entered a logo in the contest will receive a pass of their
choice to either the Denver Zoo or the Denver Aquarium. Congratulations
to the Winners and Thank You to all the entrants and judges.
Use fertilizers sparingly and sweep
up driveways, side-walks, and roads.
1st Place
John Thompson
Age: 16
Grade: 10
Never dump anything down
storm drains.
Vegetate bare spots in your yard.
Compost your yard waste.
Avoid pesticides; learn about
Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
Direct downspouts away from
paved surfaces.
Take your car to the car wash instead
of washing it in the driveway.
Check car for leaks, and recycle
motor oil.
Pick up after your pet.
2 Place
nd
Annmarie Carlson
Age: 13
Grade: 7
3rd Place
Kendall Roerdomp
Age: 12
Grade: 7
Awards were presented at the Wheat Ridge City Council meeting
on Monday, April 23, 2007. The City anticipates displaying all the
logo entries on the City’s Web site and at the City’s Town Hall and/or
City’s Recreation Center. For more information, please contact the City’s
Stormwater Coordinator Bill LaRow at 303-235-2871 or at
blarow@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Have your septic tank pumped
and system inspected regularly.
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21
Is Your Dog Licensed Yet?
T
he cities of Arvada, Golden,
Lakewood, Westminster, Wheat
Ridge and Jefferson County
are currently working to implement a
County-wide licensing program aimed
at improving the quality of life for
your dog. In January 2007, the City
Council passed an ordinance amending
the Municipal Code to allow for new
licensing requirements, in addition to
better defining dangerous and aggressive
dogs in a non-breed specific manner.
Currently all municipalities within
Jefferson County are in the process of
or already have adopted ordinances that
require dog owners to license their pets,
a practice that has been limited to the
unincorporated area of Jefferson County
for some time. Jefferson County has had
a dog registration program since 1994.
There are several reasons why the City
of Wheat Ridge in partnership with
Jefferson County and neighboring
communities, approved moving forward
with County-wide licensing. The new
licensing program consists of mandatory
registration. Mandatory registration
benefits both the owner and the dog.
It also:
l Increases the number of lost pets
returned to their owners.
l Allows for tracking of aggressive and
dangerous animals, as well as habitual
offenders of animal laws throughout
the county.
l Systemizes information gathering
making it easier to budget for an
effective animal management
program when the local government
knows approximately how many pets
are being kept within its boundaries
(all the information gathered in the
process helps officials plan programs
and better educate pet owners
through direct-mail renewals).
l Ensures rabies vaccinations.
l Promotes spaying and neutering
when higher fees are charged for
registering unsterilized animals; and,
l Creates an additional revenue source
for the Table Mountain Animal
Center (TMAC).
The Jefferson County Animal Control
Division will administer the new
licensing program, maintain the database
and distribute licenses. Dog owners
will be required to provide their name,
address, phone number, emergency
contact information and a current
rabies vaccination in order to receive
a license. Licenses must be renewed on
an annual basis and license fees will
be set by the Jefferson County Board
of Commissioners.
A License is a Ticket Home
Requiring dogs to be registered will also
accomplish the following:
l Expedite reuniting lost pets with
owners. The County-wide database
contains owner information, vet
information and important medical
concerns.
l Dog tags can be traced 24 hours a
day, 365 days a year by all
participating jurisdictions, leading to
fewer impounds.
l The database will allow jurisdictions
to flag dangerous dogs or animals
with special circumstances.
l Fewer impounds at the Table Mountain
Animal Center will save staff time and
resources. Since 1994, when Jefferson
County first adopted a dog registration
ordinance in unincorporated parts of
the County, impounds have been
reduced by 20 percent despite the
increase in population.
To license your dog, ask your veterinarian
for Jefferson County’s form or call
303-271-5070 or e-mail:
animal-control@jeffco.us. You can also
call the City of Wheat Ridge Community
Services Unit at 303-235-2926.
Mandatory Registration
Will Help TMAC
Table Mountain Animal Center
serves as a facility for lost animals,
those impounded by animal control
officers and for pets relinquished by
their owners. It also serves as Jefferson
County’s pet adoption agency.
While TMAC receives the third
largest volume of animals of all
shelters in Colorado, it has the
smallest budget of any major animal
shelter in the State of Colorado.
All revenues (above administrative
costs) generated by dog licensing
moving forward in Arvada, Golden,
Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and
Westminster will go to TMAC
for operations and ultimately for
construction of a much needed
new facility.
For more information on TMAC,
please call 303-278-7575 or
visit TMAC online at:
http://www.tablemountainanimals.org/
22
Building Permits
Connections
Fruitdale Subarea
Planning Process Underway
property. The plans provide
guidance on future development
or redevelopment of an area.
The City of Wheat Ridge continues
work on preparing a subarea plan for
the 44th Avenue area. The name of
the plan is the Fruitdale Subarea Plan.
(The plan was originally named the
Orchard District.) The boundaries for
the subarea are I-70, Lee Street., Clear
Creek and just west of Tabor Street.
Work began on the Fruitdale Subarea
Plan last fall when a survey was sent
to residents and property owners in
the subarea. Monthly meetings have
been held since January to work with
property owners and residents in
identifying issues of concern in the
area and to start to identify the types
of land uses that make the most sense
for the future of the area.
Results of the survey and meetings
to date show what people like most
about the area is the central location,
In 2005, the Wheat Ridge City
Council adopted a resolution accepting and the parks and open space.
Concerns about the area focused on
the Neighborhood Revitalization
neglected properties, and traffic and
Strategy (NRS). The report was the
speeding. In general, people would
result of a lengthy study of current
like to see more neighborhood
conditions and trends in the City.
commercial and small businesses
The report recommended several
along 44th Avenue.
strategies to restore Wheat Ridge to a
community of choice for homeowners
Fruitdale planning meetings are held
and businesses.
the third Wednesday of the month at
7:00 p.m. The next planning meeting
One of the recommendations
will be held on May 16, 2007 at
of the NRS was for the City to
7:00 p.m. at the Wheat Ridge
undertake subarea planning. Subarea
Recreation Center at 4005 Kipling
plans provide guidance and make
Street. Plan to attend this meeting
recommendations about the future
of specific areas of the City. The plans if you live in the Fruitdale subarea.
Future land uses for the area will
generally contain maps, and goals
be discussed.
and policies that provide direction
regarding future land uses in an area.
They can also identify and recommend This is your opportunity to provide
specific public improvement projects. input about what you would like to
see for the future of the Fruitdale area.
The plans are developed through
Only a few more meetings will be
a public process where a series of
held so do not miss this opportunity
meetings are held with residents and
to get involved.
property owners of the subarea.
Subarea plans are advisory documents,
not regulatory like a zoning ordinance.
The intent of the plans are not for the
City to acquire or rezone private
For more information about the
Fruitdale Subarea Plan, please call Sally
Payne at 303-235-2852 or email at
spayne@ci.wheatridge.co.us.
Required
The City of Wheat Ridge is reminding citizens
about the importance of obtaining a building
permit before starting a new project. While it is
apparent that some projects like room additions
require a building permit, projects such as
fences or the addition of a lawn sprinkler
system may not be quite as obvious.
As a general rule the following improvements
require a building permit before any work
begins:
lDecks
lIn-ground and aboveground swimming pools
lRetaining walls (3 feet and over)
lConcrete work more than 500 square
feet in size
lFences (repair, replacement & new)
lInterior remodels
lBasement finishes
lStorage sheds
lElectric service changes
lMembrane structures (temporary garage
type structures)
lAir conditioners and swamp coolers
lGarages and carports
lFurnace, boiler and water heater replacement
City officials stress the importance of obtaining
a building permit for a variety of reasons. A
building permit ensures that the project meets
zoning regulations and will be built properly
and according to safety codes. Personal safety
and insurance issues also contribute to the
importance of acquiring a building permit.
The City of Wheat Ridge encourages its
citizens to spruce-up their properties and enjoy
their home improvement projects. Obtaining
a building permit is the best way to make sure
that projects are completed safely and according
to the City code. If you have any questions
about a specific project, plans or the procedure
for acquiring a permit, please call the Building
Division at 303-235-2855 or stop by the
second floor of the Municipal Building located
at 7500 W 29th Avenue or visit the Building
Division online at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us.
Important Telephone Numbers
Emergency
Fire Districts
Ambulance, Fire and Police.............9-1-1 Arvada Fire Protection
Non-Emergency
District..............................303-424-3012
Police Calls........................303-237-2220 Fairmont Fire Protection
District..............................303-279-2928
Wheat Ridge Fire Protection
Wheat Ridge Facilities
City Hall...........................303-234-5900 District..............................303-403-5900
7500 W. 29th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
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23
Valley................................303-424-9661
Wheat Ridge.....................303-424-2844
Departments & Services
Mayor & City Council
303-235-2815
Jefferson County
Mosquito Control.............303-271-5718 City Clerk’s Office
Recreation Center.............303-231-1300 Jefferson County Housing Authority
Boards & Commissions.....303-235-2815
4005 Kipling Street
(Section 8)........................303-422-8600 City Clerk.........................303-235-2823
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Assessor (Property Taxes)...303-271-8600 City Council Meeting.......303-235-2815
Liquor Licenses.................303-235-2816
Senior/Community Center..303-205-7500 Motor Vehicle
(License Plates)..................303-271-8100 Passports...........................303-235-2815
6363 W. 35th Avenue
100 Jefferson County Pkwy., #2540 (Golden) Voter Registration.............303-235-2815
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
6510 Wadworth Blvd., #320 (Arvada)
Anderson Building............303-205-7590 2099 Wadsworth Blvd., #K (Lakewood) City Manager’s Office
4355 Field Street
Marriage License...............303-271-8121 City Manager....................303-235-2819
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Economic Development....303-235-2806
Public Information Officer..303-235-2826
Libraries
Parks, Forestry & Open
Channel 8.........................303-235-2826
Space Shops......................303-205-7555 Jefferson County
Public Library...................303-275-2200
4350 Garrison Street
Administrative Services
Wheat Ridge
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
(32nd & Chase)................303-463-3145 Accounts Payable...............303-235-2821
Parks, Forestry & Open
Budget Information..........303-235-2819
Space Administration........303-205-7552
Business License................303-235-2820
Sanitation Districts
9110 W. 44th Avenue
Applewood........................303-232-6883 Human Resources.............303-235-2814
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Clear Creek Valley.............303-424-4194 Job Information Line........303-234-5927
Public Works Operations..303-205-7600 Fruitdale...........................303-424-5476 Purchasing........................303-235-2811
Northwest Lakewood........303-987-0835 Risk Management.............303-235-2819
11220 W. 45th Avenue
Westridge..........................303-424-9467 Sales Tax Information........303-235-2820
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Wheat Ridge.....................303-424-7252
Sod House Museum..........303-421-9111 North Table Mountain......303-279-2854 Community Development
4610 Robb Street
Administration..................303-235-2846
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Building Permits...............303-235-2855
School District
Building Inspection
Jefferson County
Cable Television
Public Schools...................303-982-6500 Request Line.....................303-234-5933
Comcast............................303-930-2000
Contractor License............303-235-2855
Unresolved Comcast Customer
Wheat Ridge
Service Issues.....................303-235-2826 Telephone
Housing Authority............303-235-2846
Qwest
Wheat Ridge Urban
Residential.....................1-800-244-1111
Renewal Authority............303-235-2846
Chamber of Commerce
Business.........................1-800-603-6000
Zoning Enforcement.........303-235-2847
West Chamber Serving Jefferson
Water Districts
Zoning Information
County..............................303-233-5555 Consolidated Mutual........303-238-0451
Request Line.....................303-234-5931
Denver Water....................303-628-6000
Electric & Gas
Edgewater.........................303-238-7803
Municipal Court
Xcel Energy.......................303-623-1234 North Table
303-235-2835
Mountain Water................303-279-2854
Probation..........................303-235-2830
– Continued on page 24
Parks & Recreation
Administration..................303-231-1307
Wheat Ridge
Recreation Center..............303-231-1300
Athletic Leagues................303-231-1310
Field Reservations..............303-231-1310
Phone-In Program
Registration.......................303-231-1300
Picnic Shelter-Pavilion
Reservations......................303-231-1300
Room Rentals.................303-231-1315
Senior-Community Center..303-205-7500
Room Rental..................303-231-1307
Anderson Building............303-205-7590
Outdoor Pool.................303-205-7591
Pool Info Line................303-234-5929
Historic Park
Sod House Museum.......303-421-9111
Sod House Museum
Information Line............303-234-5930
Parks, Forestry & Open Space
Administration..................303-205-7552
Parks, Forestry & Open
Space Shops.......................303-205-7555
Ye Olde Firehouse..............303-231-1307
Police Departments
Emergencies (Police-Fire or Rescue)....9-1-1
Or.....................................303-232-4357
All Other Police Calls........303-237-2220
Administration..................303-235-2913
Animal Control.................303-235-2926
Code Enforcement............303-235-2926
Complaints/Commendations303-235-2908
Graffiti Hotline..................303-235-2909
Investigations.....................303-235-2945
Patrol.................................303-235-2932
Police Records...................303-235-2921
Public Information Officer..303-235-2930
Victim Outreach
Information.......................303-202-2196
Public Works
Administration..................303-235-2861
Drainage Issues..................303-235-2861
Municipal Contractor
Licensing...........................303-235-2861
Stormwater Hot Line.........303-235-2897
Potholes.............................303-205-7600
Snow Plowing....................303-205-7600
Street Cut Permits.............303-235-2861
Street Sweeping.................303-205-7600
Street Light Outages
Xcel................................303-556-0842
Public Works Operations.303-205-7600
Traffic Signals....................303-205-7600
City of Wheat Ridge Applewood District III
Information Meeting
Wednesday, May 16th at 6:30 P.M.
Wheat Ridge Recreation Center – 4005 Kipling Street
Karen Adams
City Council
District III
Councilmember Karen Adams
Updates:
lCabela’s Project (Clear Creek
Development)
lPossible Upcoming Capital Projects:
1.38th Avenue
2.Einarsen Park
3.Kipling Sidewalks
4.32nd Avenue
Police Chief Dan Brennan
Information:
lNew Approach to Code
Enforcement
(Administrative model
for Nuisance Ordinance)
lProject Life Center
lNeighboorhood Watch
Come to a community meeting and help plant
the seeds for a sustainable Wheat Rige.
It’s Your City and Your Future.
Wheat Ridge Senior Center
6363 W. 35th Ave.
Wednesday, May 30th from 7 to 9 PM
Let ’s Discuss
•Should City Government
Karen Berry
take the “Green Challenge”
City Council
Did You Know:
and go on a carbon diet?
District I
•If every American house hold replaced just • What can we do as a community
one incandescent light bulb with a compact to create a sustainable future?
fluorescent, we’d prevent 800,000 cars’
• How can planting trees help heat up
worth of green house-gas emissions.
and cool your house — not the outside?
Meeting/Event Calendar
April – June 2007
Meeting/Event
Date
Time
City Council Regular Meetings
2nd and 4th Monday of each month 7 pm
City Council Study Session
1st and 3rd Monday of each month 6:30 pm
Cultural Commission
2nd Wednesday of each month Planning Commission
1st and 3rd Thursday of each month 7 pm
Board of Adjustment
4th Thursday of each month 6 pm
7 pm
Parks and Recreation Commission 3rd Wednesday of each month 7 pm
Cultural Commission
2nd Wednesday of each month 6 pm
Liquor Licensing Authority
2nd and 4th Thursday of each month 9 am
Urban Renewal Authority
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month 6 pm
Housing Authority
4th Tuesday of each month 5 pm
Senior Advisory Committee
2nd Monday of each month 9 am
Wheat Ridge Foundation
3rd Wednesday of each month 9 am
Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival
3rd Weekend in August (August 16-1)
*Note: All meetings are subject to change. Please call 303-235-2816 for confirmation of dates and times
City of Wheat Ridge
7500 W 29th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
prsrt-std
Postal Patron
U.S. Postage
paid
PERMIT no. 87
wheat ridge, CO