Golden Informer - Fall 2024 by City of Golden

GOLTRA FIRE

Coordinating Golden’s Emergency Response

CREEK SEASON RECAP

Improvements Made in 2024

2024 ELECTION INFORMATION

A LETTER FROM OUR MAYOR

Shopping Small & Celebrating Golden

The end of the year means a lot of holidays. From Halloween costumes and Thanksgiving feasts, we go right into December celebrations and gift giving. I typically like to do things for others rather than gift things, but this time of year, I get into the spirit and start shopping.

It is so easy these days to search online and have an order delivered next day. Checking one thing off my to-do list without having to leave the house is enticingly convenient, but then I think about how hard our small business owners work in Golden. I want them to be able to thrive long into the future, so I put my shoes on and go out to shop Golden.

Years ago, I worked for American Express in their Small Business Services department. They launched the first Small Business Saturday in 2010 to counter big store Black Friday promotions and online Cyber Monday shopping. If my memory is correct, that first year they offered up to four $25 statement credits for shopping small that Saturday. What sticks with me from that shopping excursion 15 years ago is how many of our local businesses qualified as small businesses. Golden was full of them back then and even more exist in our City today.

I’ll be shopping small again this year looking for everything from hostess gifts for parties to holiday presents for family members. I love the unique finds in our retail stores, at the art and craft markets, and in our museum shops, and I appreciate that my dollars are supporting a thriving local economy.

I also love how Golden comes together at the end of the year to celebrate community. Trick or Treat Street, hosted by downtown businesses, is a wonderful tradition for families. The Great Turkey Chase, organized by the Runners Roost store, is held on Thanksgiving morning and is another great family-friendly activity. The Olde Golden Holidays events, especially the Candlelight Walk, are more beloved traditions that strengthen our Golden community and create long-lasting memories.

This is also the time of year that many look to give extra time or financial support to help individuals in need. I appreciate how many local opportunities for giving exist to benefit those in our Golden community. Golden Rotary puts together the Miracle Shop each year for parents to be able to shop for new toys at affordable prices. Jefferson County and several of our Golden public schools host a Giving Tree for donors to select a gift wish and provide a gift to that child. Colorado Gives Foundation organizes the Colorado Gives Day in December for financial donations to nonprofits including many great organizations here in Golden.

I’m ready for the hustle and bustle of the end of the year, or at least I think that I am. I hope to see you at one of the unique events in the City or maybe even out shopping in one of our Golden stores.

Here’s to a great 2025 ahead!

Laura Weinberg Mayor, City of Golden

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STAY IN TOUCH

Check out Heads Up (P. 8) and the City Calendar (P. 26) for upcoming ways to engage with the City!

A MESSAGE FROM LISA VITRY District 1

Golden is a safe and thriving community. I am very proud of the exceptional and courageous work our Police and Firefighters do every day. They provide amazing services and support for our community and continue to evolve to meet the needs and challenges of our community.

Since the passage of Ballot Measure 2K, the Fire Department has hired three Battalion Chiefs, a second Training Lieutenant, and a Community Risk Reduction Specialist. These five new positions were filled by three external hires and two internal promotions. The Fire Department was also able to purchase a second LUCAS Device for Station 24, which performs automatic chest compressions for those in cardiac arrest, increasing the odds of survival.

The Police Department began implementing equity-based policing 2 1/2 years ago beginning with the rebranding of their mission, vision and values. This focus on equity-based policing has continued this year with a number of their critical policies and processes being evaluated, along with significant amounts of data being analyzed. A citywide survey is in development with the expectation that it will be sent out by the end of this year. Workshops are being created that are dedicated toward enhancing and building knowledge, skills and abilities of the team.

The work the Police Department and Fire Department have done for the betterment, increased safety and support of the community are excellent examples of community supported concepts that evolved into sustainable, forward-thinking, boots-on-the-ground initiatives that improve our lives in the City now and will continue to do so many years to come.

I am encouraged by this. I believe our community can always come together to address challenges and plan for the future, to ensure our families and our businesses can thrive in Golden.

A MESSAGE FROM PATTY EVANS District 2

Fall in Golden is my favorite time of year. The heat of summer has lifted, leaves are changing, kids are back in school, Mines students have settled in, and the crowds of summer tourists have faded. All of these changes fill the air with a sense of anticipation and possibility.

Lots of conversations are happening in the near future that will impact our long-term vision for the city. Historic Preservation policies, zoning code updates, an update to our Comprehensive Plan, Parks and Recreation Plan, Open Space Plan, improved pedestrian and bike infrastructure, and much more. I want to make sure residents’ voices are included in these processes and that everyone knows how to stay involved and have their voices heard. Ways to stay informed and involved include:

• The new city website (www.cityofgolden.gov) has a Community Calendar with all upcoming meetings and public outreach for these and other important issues.

• The Golden Weekly Digest email is published every Wednesday with lots of information about what is going on in Golden for the week. Sign up by going to the city website.

• Guiding Golden (www.guidinggolden.com) has online space to provide feedback on specific projects and ask general questions.

• Monthly Coffee with the Councilors, listed on the Community Calendar and in this publication’s calendar, include speakers around specific topics.

• Vote in local and national elections! Make sure your voter registration is up-to-date and turn in your ballot by election day.

Your voice is important, and while we frequently hear differing and conflicting opinions on what to do on every topic, the hard work of weighing all points of view from those who care deeply about Golden is one of the most rewarding parts of being involved in these discussions.

2024 GOLDEN CITY COUNCIL

Laura Weinberg Mayor

303-384-8179

lweinberg @cityofgolden.net

Lisa Vitry District One

303-358-0444 lvitry @cityofgolden.net

Rob Reed Ward One

303-503-5945 rreed @cityofgolden.net

CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council Chambers | City Hall, 911 10th St. | 6:30 p.m.

October 8* November 12* December 3*

October 22 November 19 December 10

*Study sessions begin at 5 p.m. Check online for up-to-date information at cityofgolden.gov.

Patty Evans District Two

720-295-0080 pevans @cityofgolden.net

Paul Haseman Ward Two

303-513-2310 phaseman @cityofgolden.net

Don Cameron Ward Three

720-295-4370 dcameron @cityofgolden.net

Bill Fisher Ward Four

303-588-3389

bfisher @cityofgolden.net

Public comment is welcome on the agenda at all regular business meetings. You may also send comments to City Council directly at councilcomments@cityofgolden.net.

You can email publiccomment@cityofgolden.net; comments submitted before 3 pm of City Council meeting days will be added to the public record.

CITY OF GOLDEN DEPARTMENT MANAGERS

Scott Vargo City Manager

303-384-8010

svargo@ cityofgolden.net

Kristen Meier Human Resources

303-384-8017 kmeier@ cityofgolden.net

Carly Lorentz Deputy City Manager

303-384-8012 clorentz@ cityofgolden.net

Meredith Ritchie Communications

303-384-8132 mritchie@ cityofgolden.net

Sandra Llanes City Attorney

303-597-5211 sllanes@ cityofgolden.net

Joe Harvey Police Chief

303-384-8030 jharvey@ cityofgolden.net

Jiles McCoy Innovation and Technology

303-384-8063 jmccoy@ cityofgolden.net

Kasey Beal Fire Chief

303-384-8090 kbeal@ cityofgolden.net

Rick Muriby Community & Econ. Dev.

303-384-8098 rmuriby@ cityofgolden.net

Monica Mendoza City Clerk

303-384-8014 mmendoza@ cityofgolden.net

Theresa Worsham Sustainability

303-384-8117 tworsham@ cityofgolden.net

Anne Beierle Public Works

303-384-8153

abeierle@ cityofgolden.net

Sarah Vaine Thriving Communities

303-384-8075 svaine@ cityofgolden.net

CONNECT WITH THE CITY OF GOLDEN

Permits events@cityofgolden.net 303-277-8728

Streets Department cityofgolden@cityofgolden.net 303-384-8160

Sustainability goldensustainability@cityofgolden.net 303-384-8117

Trash & Recycling customerservicedenver@republicservices.com 303-277-8727

Utilities Division utilitiescrew@cityofgolden.net 303-384-8170

Victim Outreach victimoutreachinfo@gmail.com 303-202-2196

Water Bills utilitybilling@cityofgolden.net 303-384-8026

Water Quality utilitybilling@cityofgolden.net 303-384-8181

HEADS UP

CONTINUE TO ZONE IN!

Golden is working to make our zoning code easier to understand and use in what is now Phase 3 of an ongoing, multi-year effort. What does this mean for the City? Phase 3 includes streamlining processes into a single, user-friendly chapter. City staff are also reorganizing the land-use chapter into easy-to-read tables, filling in missing definitions, and updating standards like parking. You can review the draft changes and share your thoughts at guidinggolden.com/ zoning-code-update. Your feedback is crucial to ensure these regulations meet the needs and vision of our community.

TRIANGLE

PARK UPGRADES

COMING IN 2025

The City of Golden held a community engagement event in Triangle Park (located at the intersection of East St. and S. Golden Rd.) on June 12, 2024, to discuss draft design options to upgrade the park, funded by the Colorado Water Conservation Board Grant Turf Replacement Program. Updates to the design were based on the feedback provided and the final design can be viewed at www.guidinggolden.com/triangle-park. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2025.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN GOLDEN

How should Golden preserve its rich past? The Historic Preservation Board is conducting a study to assess how the City manages its historic resources. The Historic Preservation Policy and Engagement study began on June 12, 2024, with a series of tours highlighting the City’s historic districts. Efforts continued with two open houses where community members were encouraged to contribute to build a united vision for Golden’s historic resources. Engagement and input opportunities for the study are wrapping up this fall; we value your feedback! Find out the latest and add your voice at www.guidinggolden.com/hp-policy-study.

Engage in the City!

More events and community engagement activities are included in the City calendar.

HERITAGE AND HORIZONS: GOLDEN’S COMMUNITY PLAN FOR PROGRESS

The City will begin its Community Plan (sometimes called a Comprehensive Plan) Listening Sessions in October through December, with plans to come to eight different City neighborhoods to hear from you! The intention is to update the plan to reflect changes over the last six years, such as the form-based approach to zoning, Transportation Management Plan and Bike/Ped Plan goals, racial equity, diversity, and inclusion task force goals, affordable housing, and determine policy direction for the future. Visit www.guidinggolden.com/community-plan for more information.

RECYCLING FOR ALL

The Community Sustainability Advisory Board needs your input on a new proposal to expand recycling services to everyone in Golden, including residents of multi-family areas and to businesses who may not currently receive service. The Board is exploring options for how Golden can achieve its 80% waste diversion target goal by 2030 and will discuss possible new solutions, benefits, and impacts of expanding services. Visit www.guidinggolden.com/ universal-recycling to learn more about a City-wide Universal Recycling Ordinance and provide your feedback about the proposal. Respondents will be entered to win a gift basket from local Golden businesses.

CITY BUDGET

The City is finalizing the first draft of the operating and capital budget for review by CBAC on September 18 and presentation to Council at Study Session on October 8. A community update meeting on the budget is planned for October 29 in the Golden Community Center from 6:00–7:30 pm.

2024 NOVEMBER ELECTION

Key Dates and Deadlines

As the 2024 General Election approaches, local officials are preparing for a smooth and efficient voting process. Here are the essential dates and deadlines for voters:

• Monday, October 21: Vote centers will open, providing convenient locations for voters to cast their ballots.

• Monday, October 28: This is the last day to mail your ballot, ensuring it arrives on time for counting.

• Tuesday, November 5: The final day to vote in person.

• Voters are encouraged to stay informed and plan ahead to ensure their participation in the election.

Voter Registration Information

In order to vote in Colorado, you must be:

• A Colorado resident for at least 22 days before the election

• Not serving a sentence of confinement or detention for a felony convicti on (those on parole and who have completed their sentences ARE ELIGIBLE to vote)

• At least 18 years old (16+ can pre-register)

Ways You Can Register to Vote

In-person: Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder’s office located at 3500 Illinois Street, Suite 1100, at any time which registration is permitted at the office, including on Election Day. Or...

• Any vote Center Find-a-Voting-Site

• Any state motor vehicle office

• Any state authorized Voter Registration Drive

By Email: elections@votejeffco.com

Mail: Colorado Department of State Elections Division, 1700 Broadway, Suite 550 Denver, CO 80290

By Fax: 303-869-4861

Qualified residents may register to vote up to and including Election Day. However, in order to receive a ballot in the mail, your voter registration must be received no later than 8 days before the election. If you register after this time, you must visit a vote center in order to vote. You can find voting sites at www.jeffco.us/3907/Find-a-Voting-Site

For Additional Election Information or Questions:

Jefferson County’s website www.jeffco.us/396/Elections

Golden City Clerk’s Office at clerks@cityofgolden.net or 303-384-8014 for Golden Election information or information can also be found on the City of Golden website at www.cityofgolden.gov/government/elections

SUMMER RUNS DRY

A Look Back at Golden’s 2024 Creek Season

In recent years, the City of Golden has taken significant steps to manage the increasing recreational use of Clear Creek and its surrounding areas. With the popularity of tubing and other outdoor activities, the City is facing challenges related to safety, environmental impact, and traffic management.

Historic Mitigation Strategies

City staff, in partnership with City Council and the community, have taken significant steps to manage Clear Creek over the years, including creating a flag system to communicate creek conditions, introducing Creek Ambassadors for visitor information, and installing additional waste bins and fencing to protect the environment. The City also launched an online creek information page and added new trail signage, while restricting non-local access to the 9th Street neighborhood to ease traffic.

City Council formed a Creek Subcommittee in 2022, consisting of Councilors Evans and Fisher, to better focus on guiding creek related policy issues. The subcommittee standardized tube rental permits, opened a new parking lot for creek visitors, introduced paid parking along 10th Street, and enhanced trail signage. The City also hardened the creek exit at Vanover Park and prohibited disposable containers to reduce litter.

In 2023, the City expanded these strategies with more signage in English and Spanish, increased parking enforcement, and installed a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system to track creek usage. Additional waste stations were added, weekly cleanup events were organized, and 200 life jackets were provided

to bring your own tubers for safety. A safety video was created in partnership with Jeffco Open Space, and a shuttle service was launched, saving over 25,000 trips on the trail to foot traffic. Parking enforcement was ramped up, with fines for violations along 10th Street increasing from $30 to $100.

Continued Focus on Safety and Resident Feedback

This year, the City continued to prioritize safety, traffic, environmental protection, pedestrian use of the trail, and park rules. Prior to the Creek season, City staff installed additional fencing to help formalize the entry and exit points of the creek and to attempt to limit the wear and tear of creek banks.

Gates were installed to allow access to residents at slower times at three spaces along the creek, and the path was widened near the RV Park for better shared usage. The Beach featured a new layout to discourage large group gatherings to help with environmental impacts and safety.

The City continued to gather and analyze data to better understand the impacts of recreational use on the creek and made adjustments to its management strategies based on this information. The RFID system was

refined with upgraded software, more water-resistant tags, and support from the Colorado School of Mines students to analyze the data. Outfitters inserted RFID tags into the tubes and more tags were handed out along the creek to bringyour-own tubers. In the 2024 season, the City tracked 22,131 visits to the creek from both personal tubes and outfitters. This year, the creek’s busiest days were July 13, August 4, and July 29.

The City contracted with a third-party Parking Management Company in 2024 to allow Community Service Officers to focus on code violations along the corridor. Parking enforcement increased, resulting in approximately 6,500 tickets distributed along the corridor in July and August. Parking fees were increased from $8 per day to $10 per day, with residents prioritized using the annual Golden Resident permit to enjoy up to two hours of free parking in the garages and surface lots daily without having to register at a kiosk or pay by the smartphone system.

Creek season also means event season in Golden, and the City implemented a pilot offering free shuttles from nearby satellite parking lots to reduce the pressure on the community from traffic congestion and parking, resulting in approximately 1000 less vehicles in downtown over the major event weekends.

New this year, City Council approved two outfitters disallowing tube rentals on one of the busiest Saturdays of the season to provide an offset for anticipated peak use associated with a City special event permit.

Looking Forward

As the City continues to refine its strategies, community feedback and data-driven decisions will remain at the forefront of its efforts to ensure that Clear Creek remains a safe and enjoyable destination for all. A Study Session will be held on October 8 and a follow-up Creek Engagement event will be held in winter 2025 prior to the 2025 creek season.

COOL UNDER FIRE

Goltra Fire Highlights the Strength of Coordinated Response and the Importance of Post-Event Review for City Service

On Tuesday, August 20 around 4 p.m., Golden Fire was notified about a wildland fire that had started near Golden. The fire began burning in challenging terrain at the top of a mountain on the north side of US 6, within the Golden Gate Fire Protection District.

Golden Fire stayed on standby and coordinated with the Golden Gate Fire Department before being asked to send a Type 3 Wildland Engine to assist. As the fire grew, a Unified Command Team was set up including Golden Fire, Golden Gate Fire, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to pool resources and response.

By around 10 p.m., all crews were pulled back from the mountain due to dangerous conditions brought on by darkness and strong winds.

The Team then held a late-night briefing to ensure public safety and set up plans for the following day. They identified key points to monitor overnight and discussed how to request additional resources to protect nearby residential areas if needed including Canyon Point and Trip Ranch. They also prepared for possible requests for more help if the fire

crossed US 6. During the briefing, they established preevacuation alert zones for the area.

Fortunately, these emergency measures were not needed. By Wednesday morning, August 21, command of the fire was handed over to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

Air support, including two helicopters, made significant progress by dropping water on the fire’s perimeter throughout the day. The fire was fully contained soon after, and no structures were lost.

PROTECTING WATER QUALITY FOR GOLDEN AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

The Goltra Fire broke out just upstream of a crucial water intake serving Golden and other nearby communities. Now that the fire is out, attention turns to reducing the risk of post-fire burn area runoff and protecting Golden’s drinking water supply.

Wildfires leave behind scorched terrain that is prone to erosion and runoff, which could carry ash, soil, and contaminants into Clear Creek. Since Golden relies on the creek for its water supply, this runoff poses a significant threat. Fortunately, the City has been preparing for such scenarios and is well-equipped to handle

water quality challenges.

In response to the fire, Golden’s Water Treatment staff quickly adjusted operations by increasing potable water storage and filling raw water ponds. This provides a buffer against potential water quality issues. Public Works staff have also placed runoff controls, including silt fences and rock socks, to manage stormwater. These measures will be closely monitored after each rainfall to ensure ongoing effectiveness. Golden’s proactive approach aims to protect both public health and the environment, ensuring continued high-quality water service for residents.

HELP PROTECT OUR WATER QUALITY THIS WINTER!

We think of fallen snow as pure and free of contaminants. But did you know that runoff from melting snow can carry pollutants like deicers? Snowmelt washes these chemicals into storm drains, which empty into nearby streams,

WINTER IS COMING

Act Now to Worry Less Later

One of the most common springtime issues for Golden homeowners is burst waterlines due to improper winterizing of sprinkler systems. Broken waterlines are expensive to fix and waste water; with Golden on the path to reduce per capita water use 15% by 2030, help us achieve our goal by winterizing your sprinkler system properly!

For manual drainage systems:

• Shut off the water supply to the system.

• Look for the manual valves at the ends and low points of the piping.

• Open all valves and drain the water from the system.

• Make sure you also drain the backflow device.

damaging our water quality.

You can help protect people and waterways after winter storms by following these simple steps:

• Secure trash and recycling bins to keep litter contained.

• Pick up pet waste to prevent bacteria and nutrients from being carried away by melting snow.

• Shovel snow from sidewalks onto vegetated areas so it soaks into the ground instead of flowing onto the street.

• If using a deicer, always apply according to the instructions. Deicers are harmful to aquatic life in large quantities. Remember: adding more deicer does not eliminate the need to shovel!

For automatic drainage systems:

• Turn off the water supply.

• Briefly run one of the sprinkler heads to relieve the water pressure in the system.

• Automatic draining should begin, clearing the pipes of excess water.

Nancy and Ken’s lawn removal project—before, during, and after!

Lawn replacement can seem daunting, but there are resources to help as well as tips from Golden residents Nancy Shefte and Ken Jacobs! The Lawn Replacement Program, funded through the Colorado Water Conservation Board, City of Golden and Resource Central, allowed Nancy and Ken to remove over 300 square feet of lawn from their property, turning it into a native plant oasis. They also utilized plants from Garden in a Box to replace the removed lawn.

Nancy and Ken used many strategies to mitigate environmental impact, first by working with a landscaper early in the project to limit the potential for erosion and stormwater runoff. Adding a thick layer of mulch allows rainwater to seep in while preventing stormwater runoff from the steep slopes on the property. Nancy and Ken also hand-water and use water from rain barrels to make irrigation more efficient. They continue to implement new, innovative solutions to make their home more sustainable!

Want a beautiful landscape like Ken and Nancy that cuts down on water usage? Prepare for next year by signing up for the 2025 Residential Lawn Replacement Program waitlist and other Golden Resource Central Programs at www.resourcecentral.org

Did

You Know?

A portion of the Colorado Water Conservation Board Grant Turf Replacement Program funds were used to upgrade a municipal project at Triangle Park, located at the intersection of South Golden Rd. and East St.

WHERE DOES MY MATTRESS GET RECYCLED?

Old mattresses and box springs from Golden residents are transported to Spring Back Colorado in Denver where the company dismantles each one piece by piece to recover materials for recycling. Since Golden began collecting mattresses and box springs for recycling in 2022, more than 700 pieces have been kept out of the local landfill on Highway 93 north of Golden and recycled.

How do we know these materials are actually recycled? Golden works with Spring Back to keep track of where materials are processed:

2 Foams

3 Cotton

Cotton ticking from the top quilted layer heads to Florida to be recycled into new carpet padding.

Recycling Challenges

Some layers still pose challenges to recycling, including pocket coils which must separate the steel from their polypropylene wrap or wood frames which o en have an abundance of nails or staples.

1 Steel Springs

Steel springs remain here in Colorado to be recycled into new steel products.

Foam, such as latex or memory foam or mattress padding is transported to Texas. Previously, foam was recycled into new carpet padding, but a firm is now using new technology to reformulate old foam into new mattress foam again.

Thinking about replacing your old mattress or box spring? Schedule a free recycling pickup in Golden through the City’s online reservation system by scanning the QR code or by calling (303) 953-5800.

4

Want to recycle your mattress? Scan the QR Code:

WATTS UP?

You Can Cash in with Energy Rebates for Sustainable Homes and Businesses

Through the end of 2024, Golden homeowners can apply for energy efficiency rebates offered by the Community Sustainability Advisory Board.

Now is a great time to consider adding insulation to your home or a new heat pump to replace an old, inefficient furnace. The City is matching Xcel Energy rebates to double the benefit to you. Help Golden become a more sustainable community and lower your energy bills too!

For further information and to apply for rebates, scan the QR Code:

Don’t Toss Those Holiday Lights, Recycle Them for Cash Instead!

Do you have broken, burned-out or impossibly tangled sets of holiday lights stored away with last year’s holiday decorations? Recycle them for free at Action Recycling Center in Wheat Ridge where string lights are not only accepted for recycling but are also currently paying per pound for the value of the scrap metal in the lights. Take a trip to Action Recycling; they’re open weekdays 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

NOISE WALL COMING SOON

What You Need to Know

Big news for residents along Highway 58! The City has completed surveys and underground work for the first noise wall, which will go up between Maple Street and Arapahoe Street along Highway 58. The design is in progress, and construction plans are moving forward. The City is working with CDOT to get the appropriate permits. Expect a public meeting in early October to share your thoughts on the project. Construction bids will be ready by late 2024 with work starting in spring 2025.

We’re also looking into other noise wall spots—south of Highway 58, east of Highway 93, and more. Stay tuned for updates!

NEW NAME, SAME COMMITMENT

Code Enforcement Transitions to Community Services Unit

The Golden Police Department is pleased to announce that the former Code Enforcement/Animal Management unit has evolved into the Community Services unit to deliver better service to the community.

With an eye toward nationwide law enforcement trends, the City has begun to provide services by non-sworn, unarmed personnel instead of sworn police officers when possible. This allows sworn police officers to focus on higher priority in-progress crimes, traffic enforcement, and criminal investigations.

Community Services officers will still handle code violations and animal management calls in the City. Their expanded role will also include increased patrol along

the Clear Creek corridor, fielding the photo radar speed enforcement vehicle, and participating in crime prevention activities. Additionally, they will assist sworn patrol officers by taking over some lower-level reports, handling minor non-injury accident reports, assisting motorists, and directing traffic.

These officers will still have the authority to investigate and issue summonses for applicable code, parking, animal, and ordinance violations in all areas of the City. They will not make physical arrests, enforce criminal statutes, or investigate felony level crimes. Importantly, the number of authorized sworn police officers will not be reduced by this transition. With seven Community Services officers and one supervisor, the new unit will play a key role in helping the department achieve its mission statement, “To keep our community safe through strong partnerships and excellence in service.”

Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level including the basement of your home.

Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.

Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or don’t respond when tested.

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You!

Fire Prevention Week is October 6–12. Help Golden Fire kick it off by joining us for Safety Day, October 5! Residents of all ages are welcomed to enjoy light refreshments, a raffle with prizes, tours of emergency vehicles, meet & greets with City staff, face painting, live demonstrations, and more.

Smoke alarms are one of the best tools in preventing death due to fire. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) notes that this year’s theme focusing on smoke alarms is in response to some hard-hitting data, which shows that the majority of U.S. home fire deaths continue to occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

Working smoke alarms in homes reduces the risk of dying in a house fire by fifty-four percent.

HONORING INDIGENOUS CULTURE AT THE GOLDEN HISTORY MUSEUM

As a continuation of the Indigenous Connections initiative, Golden History Museum & Park is hosting its first-ever exhibit co-curated by members of the local Native community. We Are Still Here: The Endurance of Native Jewels showcases the perseverance of Indigenous people, especially women. Native people are still here, despite 500 years of colonialism, which has included exposure to foreign disease, warfare, genocide, forced relocation to reservations, boarding schools designed to eliminate their culture, broken treaties, and disregard for tribal sovereignty.

The Museum also showcases a newly remodeled dual-purpose gallery and meeting room. The Clear Creek

Room will house the exhibit, Clear Creek: The Heart of Golden, which explores the natural, industrial, recreational, Indigenous, and agricultural histories of Clear Creek. With a window that faces the creek itself, this room will also serve as a relaxing meeting space for employees and visitors alike.

These exhibits are here to stay indefinitely, come enjoy them! Photo credit:

Povy Kendal Atchison

Grand Opening Celebration

Tony Grampsas Park

4471 Salvia Street

Thursday, October 10

4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.

GET READY TO RALLY

Pickleball Courts are Now Open!

Pickleball is in the air in Golden—the brand new pickleball courts at the Tony Grampsas Memorial Sports Complex are now open to the public! Golden’s pickleballers advocated for courts to meet growing demand and provide a fun experience for players, and the City heard you.

The new complex includes four state-of-the-art, sportspecific courts that are lighted for evening play until 10:00 p.m. Players of all abilities are invited to connect, compete, and enjoy! The City will host a grand opening event on Thursday, October 10, from 4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m. Stop by for lessons, activities, and light refreshments!

The opening of the courts marks the completion of Phase 1 of Grampsas Park improvements including a new pavilion and associated electrical work. Phase 2 will begin immediately and includes sod replacement, existing turf restoration, irrigation installation for the central part of the park, and planting of several new trees at the north end of the courts.

Phase 3 is in design and will include significant

improvements to the parking area serving the park and the gymnasium.

Pickelball courts are first come, first served, with the traditional pickleball rotation for play strongly encouraged. Pickleball rules and etiquette are posted at the courts to keep the games running smoothly and newer players in the know. Keep an eye out for pickleball programming in 2025!

Path to Play

The City’s Path to Play survey is live at goldensurvey.org. While the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Open House took place on September 26, the Open Space Master Plan will be held on October 7 at 5:30–7:00 p.m. at the Golden Community Center.

PEAKS TO PLAINS (P2P) TRAIL DOWNTOWN GOLDEN ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

Earlier this summer, City staff invited community members to share feedback on a ‘secondary route’ on the Clear Creek Trail to help disperse pedestrian, tuber, and cyclist traffic.

Both open houses had tremendous response, but if you weren’t able to join in person, there is still time to share your feedback.

The Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden has seen a surge in popularity recently, becoming a go-to spot for outdoor enthusiasts across the Denver Metro area. As part of the Peaks to Plains (P2P) Trail project—set to connect Idaho Springs to Denver—the Clear Creek Trail is expected to attract even more visitors in coming years. This influx is a great opportunity for the city and local businesses, positioning them to benefit from increased regional trail traffic. However, this growing popularity also brings some challenges. The existing Clear Creek Trail struggles to accommodate the diverse mix of tubers, cyclists, pedestrians, and local residents, especially during peak times.

To address these issues, the City launched a project to explore potential new routes through Downtown Golden including determining the best location for a ‘secondary route’ of the P2P Trail. The new route aims to alleviate usage issues and better serve the community, while remaining eligible for future state and federal grants.

The City plans to collect additional feedback through the end of the year.

Learn more about the project and upcoming public engagement opportunities at www.guidinggolden.com/ p2p-downtown-golden.

Please reach out to Matt Wempe, Principal Planner, at mwempe@cityofgolden.net or 303-215-8884 with any questions.

NEW TRAIL AND BIKE WAYFINDING

Hauling your cell phone out to check directions can ruin the vibes on a great Golden bike ride. The City is installing new wayfinding signage along the trail and bike network to help guide riders between major destinations and ensure you’re on the right path. Installation should be complete this fall, so keep an eye out on your next ride!

2025 Claim Form for 2024 Sales Tax Refund

The sales tax refund is limited to senior, low-income or disabled individuals who have lived within the city limits of Golden for at least 90 consecutive days in 2024 and cannot be claimed as a dependent on any other person’s tax return. The refund amount for 2024 is $125. This will be adjusted for partial year residency in Golden and partial year at age 65. Please email salestax@cityofgolden.net or call 303-384-8024 with questions.

Please check one box only:

q Senior Refund (must be 65 years or older)

q Low Income Refund

Proof required. Attach a photocopy of one of the following:

•State of Colorado Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate approval notification

•Proof of Medicaid benefits

•Proof of LEAP eligibility

•Proof of eligibility for food stamps

q Disabled Refund

Proof required. Attach a photocopy of one of the following:

•State of Colorado Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate approval notification

All refunds will be processed after January 1, 2025

•Proof of full benefits from Social Security Disability Income, SSI or the Department of Human Services

•Proof of total disability from a public or private insurance plan

Please print or type:

Name: Mr(s).

Age:

Name: Mr(s).

Age:

Date of Birth:

Physical Address: Golden, CO ZIP

Mailing Address: City State ZIP

Phone:

How many months did you reside in the city limits of Golden during 2024? months

Were you claimed as a dependent on any other person’s income tax form? q yes q no

Signature: Signature:

Th his form must be submitted by no later than April 15, 2025.

Refund Donation Option:

You have the option to donate your refund to a City of Golden program or department by checking one of the boxes below:

q Golden History Museum & Park

q Community Grant Program

q Golden Volunteer Fire Department q Golden Cemetery q Golden Senior Front Porch

q Other City program or department (please identify):

Formulario de reclamación de 2025 para el reintegro de impuestos a las ventas en 2024

El reintegro de impuestos a las ventas se limita a las personas de la tercera edad, de bajos ingresos o discapacitadas que hayan vivido dentro de los límites de la ciudad de Golden durante al menos 90 días consecutivos en 2024, y no puedan ser declaradas como dependientes en la declaración de impuestos de otra persona. El monto del reintegro de 2024 es $125. Este monto será ajustado por año parcial de residencia en Golden y por año parcial a los 65 años. Si tiene preguntas, envíe un correo electrónico a salestax@cityofgolden.net o llame al 303-384-8024.

Marque solo una casilla:

q Reintegro para las personas de la tercera edad (debe tener 65 años o más)

q Reintegro por bajos ingresos

Se requiere comprobación. Adjunte una fotocopia de uno de los siguientes documentos:

•Notificación de reembolso de impuestos a la propiedad/alquiler/calefacción del estado de Colorado.

•Prueba de beneficios de Medicaid

•Prueba de elegibilidad para el LEAP

•Prueba de elegibilidad para cupones de alimentos

q Reintegro por discapacidad

Se requiere comprobación. Adjunte una fotocopia de uno de los siguientes documentos:

•Notificación de reembolso de impuestos a la propiedad/alquiler/calefacción del estado de Colorado.

•Comprobante de beneficios completos proveniente de los pagos por discapacidad del Seguro Social, SSI o Departamento de Servicios Humanos.

•Comprobante de incapacidad total de un plan de seguro público o privado.

Escriba en letra de molde o con computadora:

Nombre: Señor(a)

Edad:

Nombre: Señor(a)

Fecha de nacimiento:

Edad: Fecha de nacimiento:

Domicilio: Golden, CO Código postal

Dirección postal: Ciudad Estado Código postal

Teléfono:

¿Cuántos meses residió dentro de los límites de la ciudad de Golden durante el 2024? meses

¿Se le declaró como persona dependiente en el formulario de declaración de impuestos de otra persona? qsí qno

Firma: Firma:

Este formulario debe enviarse a más tardar el 15 de abril de 2025.

Opción para donar su reintegro:

Tiene la opción de donar su reintegro a algún programa o departamento de la Ciudad de Golden, marcando una de las siguientes casillas:

q Golden History Museum & Park

q Programa de subvenciones comunitarias

q Departamento de Bomberos Voluntarios de Golden q Cementerio de Golden q Golden Senior Front Porch q Otro programa o departamento de la Ciudad (indique cuál):

Solo para uso oficial:

Account #01-3031-61900

ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY

Next Meetings

Golden Community Center

October 15, 5:30 p.m.

November 20, 5:30 p.m.

The Heart of Golden project aims to make the Clear Creek Corridor more useable and desirable for residents while providing needed space for Police and City services.

COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES AND NEEDS

A Vision for the Clear Creek Corridor

Residents shared that they want the Clear Creek Corridor to have more open space and gathering places. They want a more usable and special place for residents.

Current Facilities

The City does not have adequate space to house Police and City services. The current buildings are dispersed, dysfunctional, in need of repair, and ineffective in meeting residents current and future service demands. Specifically, the Police Building, City Hall, City Hall Annex, and Public Works/Community Development buildings are inadequate, outdated, unsecure, and inefficient.

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY

The purchase of 7.27 acres of land and an office building from Coors created a rare opportunity to accomplish the goals of the Heart of Golden project. Constructing a Police and municipal building on former Coors property means the City can relocate services and transform the Clear Creek Corridor into more of an asset for residents.

Community Benefits

We can transform the Clear Creek Corridor into a point of pride for residents.

We can improve customer service, efficiency, and sustainability.

Most effective way to meet sustainability goals.

NEXT STEPS

Cost Benefits

We can build a Police and City building without raising taxes.

Renovation and maintenance of existing buildings and acquiring office space is almost as expensive as building new.

Construction costs for a Police and City building will only increase as time goes by.

Council recently approved a contract to design and finalize cost estimates. The City will reach out to the community to help fine tune the details of the Police and City building to make sure if meets residents’ needs. Long-term, outreach and engagement efforts will include talking more with the community to figure out what amenities should be included throughout the rest of the Clear Creek Corridor.

Most Value

This is the most financially responsible, long-term solution.

Short-term solutions can only partially address demonstrated needs.

A well-designed building will improve security for employees and equipment, and support recruitment and retention.

FOLLOW THE PROGRESS

This initiative is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enhance our community, improve Police and City services, and ensure that the Heart of Golden reflects the values and wishes of our residents.

Follow the progress and stay up-to-date on engagement opportunities at guidinggolden.com/heart-of-golden-moving-forward

CALENDAR

The City of Golden offers a wealth of events year-round to satisfy your every interest! This calendar features just a few of the many exciting things happening, but you can find more events on VisitGolden.com.

Pictured: 2023 Candlelight Walk. Join us on December 6 this year!

SAFETY DAY WITH GOLDEN FIRE: Saturday, October 5, 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

To kick off Fire Prevention Week, the Golden Fire Department is excited to open our doors for our 18th annual Safety Day event at Station 21 (911 10th Street). This 100% free public event open to residents of all ages and includes light refreshments, a raffle with prizes, tours of emergency vehicles, meet & greets with City staff, face painting, and more. Booths will provide age-appropriate education thanks to the City’s Denver metro area safety and preparedness partners. Come learn about fire, police, paramedics, dispatch, animal control, burn teams with live demonstrations throughout the morning. Bring your friends and families to meet Golden’s first responders and have fun while learning about fire safety!

COFFEE

WITH COUNCILORS: Saturday, October 5, 10:00 a.m.

Join your councilors in the Golden Community Center Bear Creek South Room (1470 10th Street). This month’s event features the City Co-Responder Program which uses licensed mental health clinicians to support law enforcement on mental health crisis calls.

AUTUMNFEST: Sunday, October 6, 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

A free, family-friendly community event presented by the Golden History Museum & Park. The day will be filled with crafts, big trucks, food trucks, dancers, and historic interpretations. Activities at both the Golden History Museum and Golden History Park. www.goldenhistory.org/learn-do/events.

HEART OF GOLDEN MEETING: Tuesday, October 15, 5:30 p.m.

Join us at the Bear Creek Community Room of the Golden Community Center! The Heart of Golden project aims to make the Clear Creek Corridor more useable and desirable for residents while providing needed space for Police and City services. For more information, visit: www.guidinggolden.com/heart-of-golden-moving-forward

BEER TASTING AND CHILI COOKOFF: Saturday, October 19, 1:00–4:00 p.m.

A celebration of all things beer, chili and fun held at Parfet Park! Presented by the Golden Chamber of Commerce and Coors Distributing Company. Enter your own chili recipe for cash prizes and award ribbons, or just come by and sample to your heart’s content. For tickets and more information: www.goldenbeerchilicookoff.org

TRICK OR TREAT STREET: Thursday, October 31, 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Bring your school age trick or treaters for Halloween fun on Washington Avenue between 11th and 13th Streets. Sponsored by the City of Golden and made possible by the generosity of the downtown Golden merchants, this event is a beloved local activity that is kid and adult friendly!

COFFEE WITH COUNCILORS: Saturday, November 2, 10:00 a.m.

Join your councilors in the Golden Community Center Bear Creek South Room (1470 10th Street). This month’s event features the Heart of Golden update, including Police Station and Municipal Center.

2024 FALL YARD WASTE COLLECTION: Week of November 4

Working on yard clean up? Branches, leaves, and grass galore—Yard Waste Collection Days are here to help dispose of those items overflowing your compost cart. Yard Waste Collection Days happen twice a year; once in the spring and once in the fall for residents who participate in the Pay-As-You-Throw waste collection program. Yard waste should be placed at or near where your trash is normally collected by 7 a.m. on your weekly service day. Scan the QR code for details and guidelines for materials.

HEART OF GOLDEN MEETING: Wednesday, November 20, 5:30 p.m.

THE GREAT TURKEY CHASE: Thursday, November 28, 8:30 a.m.

An Annual Thanksgiving morning run held at Parfet Park—for those who get up before the bird goes in the oven! For more information and registration: https://www.runnersroost.com/the-great-turkey-chase/

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TREE SALE: Friday, November 29

Until Supplies Run Out

Fresh Christmas trees and wreaths from Michigan will again be sold by Boy Scout Troop 329 as a fundraiser for the local troop. Sales will begin after Thanksgiving at the U.S. Bank parking lot at 19th and Jackson and continue until the supply runs out.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY: Saturday, November 30

Kick off the holiday shopping season by supporting our local businesses. Stop by the Visit Golden Shop Small Welcome Station for shopping totes, coupons and giveaways. Local businesses will be dressed in all their holiday finery, with unique gift items for your celebration. More information: www.VisitGolden.com

CANDLELIGHT WALK: Friday, December 6, Beginning 5:30 p.m.

The annual tradition of caroling down Washington Avenue continues. Watch the pre-walk show in Parfet Park, then gather at 15th and Washington at 6:30 p.m. and make your way back to Parfet Park for the ceremonial lighting of the lights around 7:00 p.m.

GOLDEN CONCERT CHOIR: Saturday, December 7, 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

The Golden Concert Choir is proud to present Christmas Around the World, featuring carols and songs of the season both familiar and new. The holiday concert will be held in the Great Hall of Calvary Episcopal Church of Golden at 1320 Arapahoe Street. Tickets will be available at the door: $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for students, and children under 6 are free. Christmas crafts and baked goods will be available for purchase, please join us and share in the seasonal fun!

MIRACLE TOY DRIVE: Saturday, December 14, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Drop off gifts to fill the shelves of the Rotary Club’s Miracle Toy Shop on the East side of Parfet Park—where families in need can shop at discounted prices to brighten their holidays. This event is sponsored by the Golden Rotary Club.

OLDE GOLDEN HOLIDAY PARADE: Saturday, December 14, 10:30 a.m.

Revelers line Washington Avenue from 10th to 13th Street for the annual Olde Golden Holiday Parade! After the parade stay in the downtown for holiday shopping and dining.

JINGLE ON THE AVENUE: Saturday, December 21, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Photo ops with your favorite holiday characters under the arch, including Mr & Mrs. Claus. Selfie with an Elfie station, dog cart rides and more held in downtown Golden on Washington Avenue from 11th to 13th Streets. Free and open to the public.