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In this edition: Arvada celebrates 120th Anniversary - pages 12 and 13 National Preparedness Month - page 3 Lake Arbor Golf Club turns 50 - page 7 Back to School Safety - page 11 Summer events - page 22 And much more! August - September 2024 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 2 I August - September 2024 Connect with Us Engage with City Council Generally, Business Meetings: 1st and 3rd Mondays; Workshops: 2nd and 4th Mondays. For information on attending or viewing a Council meeting, visit the City's website. Mayor Lauren Simpson [PHONE REDACTED] LSimpson@ arvada.org Councilmember At Large Sharon Davis [PHONE REDACTED] SDavis@ arvada.org Councilmember At Large Lisa Feret [PHONE REDACTED] LFeret@ arvada.org Councilmember District 1 Randy Moorman [PHONE REDACTED] RMoorman@ arvada.org Councilmember District 2 Shawna Ambrose [PHONE REDACTED] SAmbrose@ arvada.org Councilmember District 3 John Marriott [PHONE REDACTED] JMarriott@ arvada.org Councilmember District 4 Bob Fifer [PHONE REDACTED] BFifer@ arvada.org Emergency 9-1-1 Non-Emergency Dispatch [PHONE REDACTED] Police Records [PHONE REDACTED] Animal Control [PHONE REDACTED] Arvada Economic Development [PHONE REDACTED] Arvada Urban Renewal [PHONE REDACTED] Building Inspections [PHONE REDACTED] Building Permits [PHONE REDACTED] City Clerk’s Office [PHONE REDACTED] City Manager’s Office [PHONE REDACTED] Code Enforcement [PHONE REDACTED] Communications [PHONE REDACTED] Engagement Hotline [PHONE REDACTED] Finance [PHONE REDACTED] Housing [PHONE REDACTED] Lake Arbor Golf Club [PHONE REDACTED] Liquor Licenses [PHONE REDACTED] Majestic View Nature Center [PHONE REDACTED] Municipal Court [PHONE REDACTED] Park Pavilion Reservations [PHONE REDACTED] Planning and Zoning [PHONE REDACTED] Sales Tax [PHONE REDACTED] Special Event Permits [PHONE REDACTED] Streets [PHONE REDACTED] Traffic Signals and Signs [PHONE REDACTED] Victim Outreach Line [PHONE REDACTED] Voter Registration [PHONE REDACTED] Waste Hauling and Recycling [PHONE REDACTED] Water Bills [PHONE REDACTED] Water Quality (business hours) [PHONE REDACTED] Water Quality (after hours) [PHONE REDACTED] West Woods Golf Club [PHONE REDACTED] The Arvada Report is a newsletter published by the Arvada City Manager’s Office, [PHONE REDACTED], City of Arvada, 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, Colorado 80002. It is distributed to all residences and businesses in the City. The City of Arvada holds the ownership rights and copyrights in the design and articles contained in the Arvada Report. Articles may only be reproduced with the express permission of the City of Arvada. Editorial Staff: Rachael Kuroiwa, Cindy Javelet. Graphic Design: Steve Milke. Photography: Arvada Media Services. Inquire at the City's website Subscribe to the Arvada News Visit the City's website Engage at the City's website Call us [PHONE REDACTED] Follow us @CityofArvada ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 3 I August - September 2024 September is National Preparedness Month Each September, National Preparedness Month reminds Americans to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. It is important to be prepared for potential stresses, such as flooding, blizzards and even tornadoes, especially as the weather starts to change here in Colorado. There are some simple steps you can take to keep yourself, your family and your neighbors safe in an emergency: Sign up for emergency notifications - LookoutAlert, also known as Smart911, is the official emergency notification system used by emergency services to help get information out regarding critical incidents. Visit smart911 website. Make a plan - You might need to evacuate or shelter in place. Find valuable guidance for developing an emergency plan at ready.gov website. Build a home emergency kit - Emergencies sometimes last for several days. Learn what to add to your emergency kit by visiting ready.gov website. Listen to our Inside Arvada Podcast with City of Arvada Emergency Management Coordinator Nick Adams Available wherever you listen to podcasts or visit the City's website. Be a part of the Arvada Report! The Arvada Report serves as the primary communication hub for our city, and we strive to capture our community’s spirit with each edition. Residents have told us they enjoy seeing themselves, their neighbors and their neighborhoods featured within its pages. Previously, we've hosted photo contests to encourage residents to contribute to the Arvada Report, inviting them to share photos of their neighborhoods or other beloved spots in Arvada. The covers pictured right are examples of resident sub mitted photos. The overwhelmingly positive response to the contests has led us to extend an open invitation for residents to submit their photos to the Arvada Report. If you're excited to share your unique visual perspective of Arvada with us – and potentially with your fellow residents – we encourage you to visit the City's website. There, you'll find a link to a photo submission and release form with instructions for submitting your photos. Selected images may be used on the cover or to enhance the articles of the Arvada Report. We look forward to seeing Arvada from your perspectives! ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 4 I August - September 2024 August 10 Bulky Item Drop-Off event The final Bulky Item Drop-Off event is Saturday, Aug. 10. This service is available to all Arvada residents to help properly dispose of yard waste, mattresses, furniture, home appliances and other bulky items. Saturday, Aug. 10 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. North Area Athletic Complex (NAAC) 19500 W. 64th Pkwy. What to know before you go: • Plan for extended wait times. • Bring proof of residency. • Branches must be bundled. • Check the list of acceptable items (5 item limit). These events are included in the minimum services of the City’s Waste Hauling Program. All Arvada residents are invited to participate. Visit the City's website for more information and a complete list of acceptable items. Arvada Aquatics Center: A Tribute to George J. Meyers Swimming Center The City team with our partners from Jeffco Public Schools and Apex Park & Recreation District are hard at work completing the construction of the new Arvada Aquatics Center. The new facility will replace the longstanding community asset that was the George J. Meyers Swimming Center, which was demolished in July of this year to become the location of the new parking lot. The new facility is expected to open later this fall and will continue to serve swimmers and divers from across the region for decades to come. As we look forward to the opening, we also look back at the history of the facility. Pictured right are photos of the Meyers facility in 1979 and the current construction taken in April 2024. Please visit the City's website for more information about the project. Sign up for email updates to learn more about the opening date and celebration. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 5 I August - September 2024 Lakes, Creeks and Water: Summer FAQs What should I know about algae in lakes and ponds? Algae blooms can appear in many different colors, textures and forms. Many algae blooms can be harmful to plants and animals. Some even have toxins that can harm people, pets and wildlife. Algae blooms are most often caused by nutrient pollution from over-fertilized and over-irrigated lawns and gardens. You can help prevent harmful algae blooms: • Apply phosphorus-free fertilizer at least 2 days prior to forecasted rain. • Test your soil; only apply fertilizers that are necessary. • Keep runoff from leaving your lawn while watering. With these tips, you can save time and money and help protect your local ponds and lakes from algae blooms. How does the City monitor water quality in lakes and creeks? Lakes, ponds and streams (aside from drinking water reservoirs) are monitored by the City’s stormwater team. Water bodies across Arvada are tested for physical and chemical properties like salinity, acidity, dissolved oxygen and nutrient loading on a basis. The team also tracks the levels of e.coli, a naturally occurring intestinal pathogen. This data is used to measure overall water quality, warn of any negative trends and help to track down sources of pollution. Drinking water reservoirs are managed by the City’s Water Quality team. The City’s drinking water sources are tested more frequently and monitored more closely than other water bodies to ensure a maximum standard of water quality - even before treatment! Why does my water taste different? In the warm months of late summer and fall, algae is at its peak. Many of the algae that exist in the Arvada Reservoir (one of our drinking water sources) contain byproducts that taste earthy or fishy to humans, even at very low levels. These tiny compounds are difficult to remove and may re main in finished water. They are not harmful and go away at the end of the season. For the Arvada Reservoir, the team is working on methods to control and reduce these types of algae. How can I help keep lakes and creeks clean? Remember the most important rule of stormwater: Nothing but rain or snowmelt should ever go in a storm drain. Whether it’s grass clippings, dog waste, dirt, oil, metal scrap, soap, paint or even tap water - none of it belongs in a stream. If left in the road, curb and gutter or near a water body these substances will be carried off by stormwater and clog drains, harm wildlife and degrade local water quality. They can even cause unpleasant effects like algae blooms and bad odors. You can do your part by containing polluting substances and cleaning up any outdoor spills immediately. If you see an uncontrolled spill or suspect a body of water is being polluted, reach out to the stormwater team at [EMAIL REDACTED]. They are here to protect our local environment. Many polluting events would go unnoticed or unmitigated if not for reports from people like you! Learn more at the City's website. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 6 I August - September 2024 Replacing your furnace or AC? A heat pump can do both! A heat pump is an innovative and energy-efficient appliance that heats and cools your home. That’s right, a heat pump can do both! Unlike traditional heating systems that generate heat by burning fuel, a heat pump transfers heat from one place to another, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional heating appliances like furnaces or boilers. What is a heat pump? At its core, a heat pump operates on the principles of refrigeration. During the winter, it extracts heat from the outside air, ground or water and moves it indoors to heat your space. In the summer, the process is reversed, and the heat pump removes heat from your home, cooling it down. This dual functionality makes heat pumps versatile and efficient. Benefits of a heat pump • Energy efficiency: Heat pumps can deliver up to three times more heat energy than the electrical energy they consume. • Cost savings: Due to their high efficiency, heat pumps can lead to savings on energy bills. • Environmental impact: Heat pumps reduce the reliance on fossil fuels, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to the fight against climate change. • Comfort: Because they transfer heat rather than generate it, heat pumps provide a consistent and even temperature throughout your home. Rebates and tax credits There are tax credits and rebates available to incentivize the purchase and installation of a heat pump: • State of Colorado heat pump tax credits - $500 (Colorado energy office website) • Xcel Energy rebates - up to $2,200 (xcel energy website) • Federal tax credits – up to $2,000 (energy.gov website) How simple steps can help Arvada’s air quality Did you know that the Denver metro area has some of the worst ground-level ozone pollution? In its 2024 report card rankings, the American Lung Association ranked the Denver-Aurora area _ which includes Arvada _ as having the sixth- worst ozone pollution in the United States. Although ozone is colorless and odorless, it irritates our throats and lungs and exacerbates ailments such as asth ma, especially when it peaks each year during the hotter summer months of June through August, often on sunny, blue-sky days. The groups most impacted by ground-level ozone and other air pollution issues include children, older adults, people with respiratory conditions, outdoor workers and outdoor athletes. Between late May and mid-September, the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) issues daily ozone advisories in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) state meteorology team. You can sign up to receive those daily alerts via text or email by visiting simple steps better air website or by texting “BetterAirCO” to 21000. Whether it’s an Ozone Action Day or not, there are some “Simple Steps” Arvadans can take to reduce their emis sions on any given day, all summer long, to lower the daily build-up of ground-level ozone, save money and protect their health. These Simple Steps include: • Using alternative transportation instead of driving – taking public transportation, walking, biking, using a scooter or e-bike, carpooling and/or combining car trips • Not idling a vehicle (turning the car off and on again) • Switch to electric lawn equipment and mow after 5 p.m. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 7 I August - September 2024 Lake Arbor Golf Course celebrating its 50th anniversary The Lake Arbor Golf Course is turning 50! Be sure to stop by the course and restaurant this summer to get limited edition commemorative 50th anniversary collectables. Located at 8800 Wadsworth Blvd. in northeast Arvada, Lake Arbor prides itself on delivering excellent customer service and value. Throughout the past five decades, “The Arb” has become a locals’ favorite, known for having some of the best greens in the area, as well as a place where all ages and abilities feel welcome. Visit Lake Arbor Golf Course website to make your tee time. Reservations eight to 60 days in advance are only available online. 1969 US Open champ’s ties to Lake Arbor Built in the early 1970s as part of Arvada’s first planned community, Lake Arbor Golf Course has a unique and fascinating origin story. It begins – oddly enough – with the 1969 US Open in Houston, Texas, where Orville Moody claimed an improbable victory. At the time, Moody was less than two years into his career on the PGA Tour – and to this day, he is still the last US Open champion to earn his spot in the field through local and sectional qualifying. Before becoming a full-time pro fessional golfer, he had served in the Army for 14 years, earning him the nickname “Sarge.” Moody’s victory in the 1969 US Open – coupled with his backstory and sudden rise to prominence in the golf world – drew the interest of Lake Arbor’s community master developer, who convinced Moody to design the new Arvada golf course. Moody mixes it up with the regulars The City purchased the course in 1974, and following a short but successful career on the PGA Tour, Moody moved to the area to run the course’s daily operations. Moody only managed the course for a few years, but he left quite an impression on those who got to know him. According to Bruce Pelon, a longtime member of the Lake Arbor men’s club, Moody was witty and funny, but he didn’t like being the center of attention. He did, however, enjoy mixing it up with the regulars. Moody was known to wager anyone who was willing that he could drive the green on a par 4 with his 1-iron, a notoriously difficult club to hit, and without a tee, no less. He would also meet up with a group of regulars in the evenings on hole 12 to play a game called “stymies.” The group would split up into two teams, and when everyone’s ball reached the green, that’s when the real fun began. Balls were not marked with coins like during a regular round of golf, and instead you had to pop your ball up over any that were in your way. “Orville’s team almost always won,” Pelon said. “It was awfully fun. We’d have a great time. He was just such a nice guy.” Photo courtesy of Michelle Blackmon ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 8 I August - September 2024 Grab a blanket, chairs and some popcorn and join family, friends and neighbors for Movies Around Town, a free event on Friday evenings throughout the summer brought to you by the Arvada Festivals Commission! Be sure to get there early to snag a spot in the park and enjoy live music before showtime at dusk. Back to the Future Aug. 9 Wolff Park 8500 W. 57th Ave. Live Music by Halle Tomlinson at 7:30 p.m. People’s Choice Sept. 6 Wood Run Park 8255 Hoyt Way Live Music by Caleb Crain at 7 p.m. Scan the QR code or visit SpeakUp Arvada website to vote on which movie will be shown at our People's Choice Movies Around Town event on Sept. 6 at Wood Run Park. Voting ends Aug. 16. NEIGHBORHOOD WALKS C r e a t e d b y n e i g h b o r s f o r n e i g h b o r s Inspired to connect with others, South Central Neighborhood Leader Jordan Green has begun a neighborhood walks pilot program. Neighborhood Walks provide an opportunity for neighbors to get outside, learn about Arvada and connect with people in the community. Walks are accessible and family friendly, allowing people of all ages and disabilities to participate. There are two more walks scheduled (August and September) this year. Learn more about the walks, view a walk schedule and sign up at the City's website. Provide Feedback About Arvada's Bike Friendly Community The City has proudly been designated a Bike Friendly Community since 2010. As a part of maintaining this designation, we want to hear from you! If you ride to commute, ride for fun, or are interested in riding but not sure where to start, take the Bike Friendly Community Survey and share your feedback about cycling in Arvada. Saturday, Aug. 24 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Clear Creek Valley Park W. 58th Avenue and Tennyson Street Don’t miss Arvada Days, a family friendly event brought to you by the Arvada Festivals Commission! The FREE event features activities for all ages: • Free train ride for kids • Free Inflatables • Live music • Food trucks • Craft vendors • Beer garden benefitting Ralston House • Nerf Zone For more information, visit Arvada Festivals website. NEIGHBORHOOD WALKS C r e a t e d b y n e i g h b o r s f o r n e i g h b o r s ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 9 I August - September 2024 Open Year Round: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located in 80-acre Majestic View Park, offering public, school, scout, home school and community group programs, and rentals. The Nature Center is open for public hours Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. See updates and full calendar at majesticviewnc.org or call [PHONE REDACTED]. Thanks to a grant from SCFD, we are now open on Saturdays. Online pre-registration required for all classes. More programs available online! Family Classes Family Camping Workshop Thursday, Aug. 8, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Ages Family Fun with Collage Saturday, Aug. 10, from 1 to 3 p.m. Ages free. Turn magazines and junk mail destined for the recycling bin into works of art! Birding for Families Sundays, Aug. 11 and Sept. 8, from 9 to 10 a.m. Ages free. Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party Monday, Aug. 12, from 8:30 to 10 p.m. All ages, free. Night with a Naturalist Wednesday, Aug. 14, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.: The Megafauna of Colorado Wednesday, Sept. 11, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.: Herbology Ages free. Guided Full Moon Walk Monday, Aug. 19, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Ages free. International Observe the Moon Night Saturday, Sept. 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. All ages, free. Plant Walk with Hutch Saturday, Aug. 24, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Ages 10+, $20 Join survival expert Hutch as he teaches you about indigenous uses for Colorado plants. Adult Classes Meditation and Mindfulness in Nature First Sunday of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. Adults, $10. Birding for Everyone Fridays, Aug. 2 and Sept. 6, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Adults, Locations will vary, register in advance to receive location. Paddleboard Tour at Standley Lake Saturday, Aug. 10, from 7 to 9 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Ages 16+, $25 if renting a paddleboard/$15 if bringing your own paddleboard. Midday Meditation in Nature Weekly on Wednesdays from 12 to 12:30 p.m. Adults, free. Moonlit Meditation: A Full Moon Experience Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 8 to 9 p.m. Adults, free. This nature meditation session offers a unique opportu nity for individuals to connect with themselves and the natural of the lunar cycle. Harvest Harmony: Autumn Equinox Nature Program Friday, Sept. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. Adults, Wild Kitchen: The Sweet and the Savory Fridays, Aug. 16 and Sept. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. Adults, Learn about the different kinds of food you can make with local plants with a different focus each month. Artistic Unwind Time: Nature Journal Doodles Thursday, Aug. 15, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Adults, $25. Kids Classes Nature Playdate Thursday, Aug. 15, and Friday, Sept. 13, from 10 to 11 a.m. Geared toward ages 2-12, free. Nature Storytime Wednesdays, Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, from 10 to 10:30 a.m. All ages, free. Nature Explorers Tuesdays, Aug. 6 and Sept. 10, from 9 to 10 a.m. Ages 3-5, Explorers who are too young to attend summer camp can build their confidence outside through hands-on experiences and interactive learning activities designed to nurture curiosity and respect for all living things. ---PAGE BREAK--- RESPECT, DEDICATION, RESPONSIBILITY. WE WILL ALWAYS STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE The Arvada Report I 10 I August - September 2024 National Night Out, Tuesday, Aug. 6 The history of National Night Out dates back to 1984 when Matt Peskin, who was then the Executive Director of the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), introduced the concept. The inaugural National Night Out event took place on Aug. 7, 1984. It was a simple idea: communities across the nation would come together and turn on their porch lights, lock their doors and spend the evening outside with their neighbors and local law enforcement. The purpose of National Night Out is to heighten crime prevention awareness, generate support for local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. Since its inception, National Night Out has grown significantly. What started as a small grassroots effort has become a nationwide event involving millions of people across thousands of communities in all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. The event typically includes various activities such as block parties, cookouts, parades, safety demonstrations and youth events. National Night Out continues to be an important initiative in fostering positive relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve while promoting safer, more connected neighborhoods. Many Arvada Neighborhoods have planned events and invited the Arvada Police and Fire Departments to attend. If you have an event planned, please let us know and we will try and be there. Contact us at [PHONE REDACTED]. If you take pictures we would like if you share with us at [EMAIL REDACTED]. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 11 I August - September 2024 Back to school safety It seems like yesterday we were saying hello to summer as school sessions ended. August is here and we are going to be walking, biking and driving to schools. Many members of our community will be attending different schools this year based on some closures by the school district last year. We would like to offer several reminders to stay safe in and out of school this year. 1. Know the route: Teach your child the safest route to and from school. Practice walking or biking it together before the school year starts. This will help lower that first day stress. 2. Buddy system: Encourage your child to walk to school with a buddy or in a group. There is safety in numbers and encourages the development of new friendships. 3. Traffic safety: Teach your child to use crosswalks, look both ways before crossing the street and obey traffic signals. Also, remind them to never dart out between parked cars. 4. Stranger danger: Discuss with your child the importance of not talking to or accepting rides from strangers. Make sure they know who to go to if they need help. 5. Backpack safety: Ensure your child’s backpack isn’t too heavy and is worn properly with both straps. Distribute the weight evenly and adjust the straps so the backpack sits snugly against their back. Tell your child that they can drop their backpack if they need to run to safety. 6. Stay visible: If walking or biking to school, make sure your child wears bright or reflective clothing, especially in low light conditions as the seasons change and the sun sets and rises earlier. 7. Know emergency contacts: Ensure your child knows who to contact in case of an emergency and how to reach them. Teach them to dial emergency services if needed. 8. Bullying awareness: Teach your child to recognize bullying behavior and how to respond. Encourage them to talk to a trusted adult if they experience or witness bullying. 9. Cyber safety: Discuss online safety with your child, including the importance of not sharing personal information online and being cautious when interacting with strangers on the internet. By discussing these tips with your child and practicing them regularly, you can help ensure their safety as they head back to school. For more information about child internet safety, visit Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Child Sex Offender Investigation, Jefferson County website. Students, staff and school resource officers taken at West Woods Elementary School on the last day of school 2024. ---PAGE BREAK--- Celebrating Arvada’s history Arvada has a rich history that stretches back long before European settlers arrived. The area was originally inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Ute, Apache, Arapaho, Cheyenne, Pueblo and Shoshone. These tribes lived off the land, fostering a deep connection with the natural environment. The City of Arvada celebrates two very significant dates in the town’s history. One is 1870, the year the town plat was filed with the Jefferson County Clerk. The filing required the town to be named and a post office to be established and associated with a railroad stop. Thus, 1870 was pivotal in putting Arvada on the map, quite literally, as it became an identifiable location for settlers and businesses. Articles of Incorporation The second significant date we celebrate is August 24, 1904. On this day, the residents of Arvada voted to incorporate the town, marking its official transition from a loosely organized settlement to a recognized municipality. After several prior incorporation votes failed, the successful effort was driven by the need to address fundamental issues such as water supply, road conditions and public safety, along with the opportunity to provide public amenities, such as parks. Water supply One of the first major projects was the construction of the water tower in 1910 to serve the growing population (840) and address the town’s chronic water shortage. The water tower, capable of holding 150,000 gallons of water, remained in operation until 1975 and has since been restored as a historical landmark. In 1960, Arvada secured a contract with Denver Water, ensuring a stable water supply that continues to serve residents today. Pictured right: Water tower in 1910. Roads Arvada still had dirt roads until 1921, when the town began paving Grandview Avenue. In 1922, community members pitched in to spread 52 tons of gravel on Grandview. Infrastructure improvements continued with the paving of Wadsworth Boulevard in 1925 and the opening of the first stoplight in Jefferson County in 1941. These developments were crucial in managing the increasing traffic as Arvada expanded. In 1904, our road network was concentrated between Ralston Road to the north, Carr Street to the west, 54th Street to the south and Lamar Street to the east. The network has since expanded to more than 1440 lane miles! Pictured right: Undated photo of man looking northwest at what is now I-70 and Wadsworth Boulevard. Public safety Once incorporated, safety became a priority for the town board, who hired Arvada’s first town marshall to keep order, eliminating farm animals from the streets and supervising the town’s water ditches! The first uniformed policeman was hired in 1941, leading to the formation of the Arvada Police Department in 1950. Today the City of Arvada Police Department consists of 233 professional staff members. Pictured above: Undated photo of Arvada PD members and fleet near the original Town Hall at Yukon Street and Grandview Avenue. Read about the history of the Arvada Fire Protection District in their section on page 19. Parks and green space Parks and green spaces have been a priority for Arvada since 1919, when Clemency McIlvoy turned over the deed to her property to the town of Arvada with the stipulation that the grounds behind the house be turned into a park, which became McIlvoy Park. In 1965, the City’s Comprehensive Plan included a goal for all residents to live within 1/2 mile of a park. With each iteration of the Comprehensive Plan, that goal has carried forth, making Arvada unique not just in Colorado but throughout the United States. According to the Trust for Public Land, Arvada ranks #1 in Colorado AND in the top 3% nationally for residential proximity to parks among cities with a population of more than 20,000. Today, Arvada boasts 111 parks! Pictured above: The McIlvoy House in mid 1980s. Photos courtesy of the Arvada Historical Society Continued commitment to the future and the past Arvada’s history is marked by a continuous effort to improve the quality of life for its residents, driven by the foresight and dedication of its early and current leaders. Arvada today is testament to these efforts, offering modern amenities while preserving the rich heritage that defines the community. As current residents, we are part of this ongoing story, shaping the future for generations to come. Two fun facts Arvada was given its name by founding father Benjamin Wadsworth’s wife, Mary Ann, who wanted to honor her brother-in-law, Hiram Arvada Haskins, and dubbed the town Arvada. Arvada was once known as the Celery Capital of the World, and Pascal Celery from Arvada was sent to the White House for the Presidential Thanksgiving meal in 1922 and for Christmas dinner in 1926! Want to learn more about Arvada History? The Arvada Historical Society tours The Arvada Historical Society offers tours of the Arvada Flour Mill on Sunday mornings and Historic Walking tours upon request. Visit the website for more information. The Arvada Historical Museum at the Arvada Center The history collection housed at the Arvada Center History Museum is owned by the Arvada Historical Society and located on the main level of The Arvada Center. The showpiece of the museum is the 144-year-old Haines log house. For museum hours, visit the Arvada Center website. Arvada Historical Society’s 21st annual Cemetery Tour Every year, the Arvada Historical Society hosts its annual Cemetery Tour. This year, the tour will be held on Saturday, Sept. 21, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Arvada Cemetery (5581 Independence). The focus will be on the importance of water in the history and development of Arvada in three themes – ditches, agriculture and town development. Early settlers involved in the formation of the ditches and developing farms will tell their stories. The tour will also highlight the origins of Arvada’s iconic water tower and its role in helping the community grow. Information and tickets are available on the Historical Society website. Tickets may also be purchased on site on the day of the tour. Centennial video series In 2004, the City of Arvada celebrated its Centennial! That same year, Arvada Media Services produced a four-part vid eo series on the first 100 years of Arvada. To view the series, visit the City’s website and search “Centennial Series.” Ways to celebrate Arvada’s 120th anniversary Visit Arvada, the Arvada Economic Development Association, the Olde Town Business Improvement District, the Arvada Chamber of Commerce and local businesses have partnered to offer fun specials and promotions throughout the summer! Go to Visit Arvada website and look for Arvada Celebrates 120 years! The Arvada Report I 12 I August - September 2024 The Arvada Report I 13 I August - September 2024 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 14 I August - September 2024 City Council approves new Housing Strategic Plan This past May, the City Council approved a new Housing Strategic Plan, which identifies, prioritizes and recommends housing goals, policies, programs and resources to address housing needs in Arvada. The plan builds on Arvada’s 2020 Housing Needs Assessment and Strategy, accounting for changes in market trends, state resources and the progress made on the 2020 plan. The new Housing Strategic Plan is the result of the City receiving a grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) for the specific use of creating a housing plan for the City. The City used the grant to commission Root Policy Research, a community planning and research firm, to develop the plan in partnership with the Arvada Housing Advisory Committee, which was formed in 2023. Root Policy Research and the Housing Advisory Committee utilized the results from a Housing Survey, which was disseminated to the Arvada community in October of 2023. Results from the survey indicated that residents: • Highly value housing diversity/accessibility and affordability • Believe that housing forms typically associated with affordability such as townhomes, duplexes and apartments along major roads are appropriate in Arvada • Express strong support for public investment in housing, particularly for low and middle income workers as well as programs to stabilize low-income families Additionally, Root Policy Research conducted interviews with stakeholders including service providers, local employers, community advocates and real estate developers. Interview results indicated that the growing need for housing is impacting economic development, employee retention and community well-being. Overall, the data collected for the plan identified the following top three housing needs in Arvada: 1. Additional affordable rentals 2. Starter homes and family homes priced at or below $350,000 3. Increased diversity in housing stock with a focus on “missing middle” ownership and product types attractive to seniors This research informed the remainder of the development of the plan, which outlines policy levers, tools that government and its agencies have at their disposal to direct, manage and shape changes in public services in order to address housing needs. These policy levers include: 1. Financial assets - funding and/or land assets - to subsidize housing production, preservation and programs 2. Zoning tools to unlock supply, improve natural affordability and incentivize affordable projects Each of the above-listed policy levers contains specific strategies that are outlined in great detail in the full plan, which can be viewed on the City's website. Finally, over the next several months the City staff and the Arvada Housing Advisory Committee will develop an implemen tation timeline and action steps for each of the strategies. For more information, visit the City's website. The Housing Strategic Plan includes strategies to develop affordable housing solutions such as Vance Street Flats, a 50-unit apartment building that offers affordable rental units to households earning at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). A ribbon cutting to celebrate the completion and opening of Vance Street Flats took place this past April. Project leaders, members of City Council and City leadership attended the event in support of the completion of the development. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 15 I August - September 2024 Applewood Seed Co. to celebrate 60th anniversary in 2025 Oftentimes when we think about Arvada businesses, we think of customer-facing entities that we personally frequent like restaurants and retail stores. However, there are many businesses headquartered in Arvada that serve markets outside of the city generating substantial economic impacts for our community. One such business is Applewood Seed Co., which will be celebrating its 60th anniversary next year. Founded in 1965 by Gene Milstein, Applewood Seed Co. is one of the largest suppliers of open-pollinated wildflower, garden flower and native grass seeds in the United States. The company has a global footprint with production of wildflower seeds in six continents and they distribute the seeds worldwide, all from their Arvada location. You can think of Applewood Seed Co. when you visit your local garden center or big box retailer. Applewood Seed Co. supplies many of the flower seed brands such as Burpee, Botanical Interests, Earth Science, Ferry-Morse, Gurney’s, Pennington and many more. Over the years the company has continuously evolved to best serve the needs of its customers and employees while authentically celebrating its history. Today the company is employee-owned, which has enabled Applewood Seed Co. to maintain the inviting, warm culture that Gene Milstein established nearly 60 years ago. “We are fortunate that we had a very benevolent owner through Gene and his wife Dee who really wanted to keep the company moving in the direction in which it was established,” said Norm Poppe, CEO of Applewood Seed Co. “The Milsteins believed that employee ownership of the company was the best approach to maintain the culture and reward everyone for all of the hard work that they’ve put in,” he continued. It’s safe to say that Applewood Seed Co.’s focus on a strong company culture is certainly paying off, which is illustrated by the company’s recent success and notoriety within the seed industry. Most notably, one of Applewood Seed Co.’s verbena flower seeds titled “Sweetheart Kisses” was selected as an All-America Selections National winner and was a recipient of Fleuroselect Approved Novelty protection for its unique mix of red hues. These accolades can be paralleled with winning an Academy Award in the film industry _ the best of the best. Additionally, this past June, Norm Poppe was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), the preeminent trade association in the North American seed industry. “Norm has been absolutely instrumental in the success of our company . . . and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of ASTA’s Lifetime Achievement Award than Norm,” said Joe Eenigenburg, Applewood Seed Co.’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “We wouldn’t be here for 60 years if it weren’t for him,” he continued. As Applewood Seed Co. nears its 60th anniversary, there is much to celebrate as well as to honor and remember. Unfortunately, beloved founder Gene Milstein passed away in February of this year leaving behind a legacy that will forever impact and shape the seed industry as well as his employee’s lives. Gene’s primary goal and mission for the company was to make the world a more beautiful place, which is a celebration in itself. For further information about Applewood Seed Co. and to stay in-the-know about the company’s upcoming 60th anni versary festivities, visit the Applewood Seed website. The Arvada Economic Development Association (AEDA) is the Arvada community’s business-to-government contact. If your Arvada business has a question or needs support, AEDA staff is here to assist at [PHONE REDACTED] or [EMAIL REDACTED]. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 16 I August - September 2024 Ralston Road’s streetscape If you've walked along Ralston Road and noticed plaques on the monuments inscribed with the words "Inspire, Celebrate, and Remember," you might have wondered about their significance. These words aren't just decorative; they represent the thematic sections of our streetscape design, which celebrates Arvada's heritage, civic pride and future aspirations through three distinct districts: Remember The first district, Remember, pays homage to the founding and evolution of Ralston Road and Arvada near Olde Town, stretching from Olde Wadsworth Boulevard to Allison Street. Here, history intertwines with the present, reminding passersby of the roots from which Arvada has grown. Celebrate The district of Celebrate, spanning from Allison to Dover streets, incorporates civic elements such as City Hall and Wolff Park, spotlighting the importance of active citizenship. It's a space where community achievements and milestones are celebrated, fostering a sense of collective pride. Inspire Finally, the district of Inspire, between Dover and Garrison streets, looks to the future, reflecting Arvada's continual growth and aspirations for improvement. It's a canvas for innovation and progress, inviting residents and visitors alike to envision a brighter tomorrow. Enhancing the pedestrian experience Beyond its thematic narrative, the project prioritized enhancing the tree canopy and pedestrian environment, fortifying Ralston Road's role as a central artery of community life. Sixty trees were strategically planted, augmenting shade, improving air quality and cultivating a more inviting atmosphere for pedestrians. Varied species, including the majestic Hackberry, were carefully selected to ensure seasonal beauty throughout the corridor. As a vital east-west connector, the Ralston Road project prioritized pedestrian safety by replacing narrow sidewalks with wider ones spanning 6 to 8 feet, accompanied by accessible ramps at intersections. Pedestrian scale lighting brightens the corridor, offering both visibility and ambiance. Some light poles even have programmable hardware, serving as dynamic platforms for announcing community events and celebrations. NOTE: To provide enhanced safety for cyclists, the east-west bike corridor remains one block south on West 57th Avenue or north on the Ralston Creek Trail. This comprehensive project ensures that Ralston Road remains a cherished symbol of Arvada's resilience and vitality. It's a testament to the City's commitment to honoring its past, embracing its present and shaping its future for generations to come. The Arvada Urban Renewal Authority partnered with the City of Arvada to fund the streetscape improvements. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 17 I August - September 2024 Ralston House: Making a difference one child at a time In every community, there are children who have faced unimaginable challenges and hardships. They may have experienced abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events that no child should ever have to endure. In the face of such adversity, child victims need a place to be heard and to tell their story. This is where Ralston House Child Advocacy Center plays a crucial role, and volunteering here offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in need. Ralston House is a safe, child-friendly facility where law enforcement and child protective services, medical providers and therapists can work together to provide comprehensive services to child victims of abuse and their families. Ralston House serves as a hub for coordinating forensic interviews, medical examinations, and advocacy for children who have experienced abuse or trauma. By bringing together professionals from various disciplines, Ralston House streamlines the investigation and minimizes further trauma to children and ensuring they receive the support they need to heal and thrive. This support comes from our volunteer Victim Family Support Advocates that dedicate their time and energy to help child victims feel welcome. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting the mission of Ralston House to stop the abuse and start the healing. For children who have experienced trauma, the presence of a caring and compassionate adult can make a world of difference. Volunteers serve as greeters, accompanying children and their families as they navigate their visit, and provide comfort and support. These volunteers help create a safe and welcoming environment for children to share their experiences. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer Victim Family Support Advocate at Ralston House, please contact Stephanie Linskens at [EMAIL REDACTED] or visit the Ralston House website. Feeding the Future: Weekend food for hungry kids It’s back-to-school time. Help ensure that all kids are well-nourished and ready to learn by donating today! In Colorado, one in ten kids does not know when they will have their next meal. According to studies, the effects of chronic hunger may last a lifetime. Hungry kids often fail to reach their academic, physical and social potential due to poor health. Not knowing when they may have another meal can cause kids to have anxiety and depression. School nutrition programs are available for kids during the week, but weekends can be tough when there is not enough food in the house. You can change that. By supporting Feeding the Future, you can help ensure that all children in our community have enough to eat. Since 2006, Community Table has distributed hundreds of thousands of weekend meals to school children, stocked emergency food pantries at schools and provided snacks and ready-to-eat meals to homeless teens. Help Feed the Future at the Community Table website. ---PAGE BREAK--- Board of Directors Jim Whitfield Leah Martin Ted Terranova Joel Kingham Bob Loveridge President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Director At Large 7903 Allison Way - Arvada, CO 80005 I [PHONE REDACTED] I www.arvadafireco.gov Content provided by the Arvada Fire Protection District, an entity separate from the City of Arvada. The Arvada Report I 18 I August - September 2024 Vote on merger to occur this November By Fire Chief Kirk Lock Following a cooperative services and emergency response analysis, Arvada Fire and Fairmount Fire have collaborated closely for the better part of the past two years. Next, the citizens within the current Fairmount Fire district will vote this November to determine the outcome of a proposed merger between our two agencies. A merger would see Fairmount Fire dissolve and become part of Arvada Fire. Most importantly, a merger stands to bring service benefits to both communities while enhancing organizational efficiencies and sustainability. The reason citizens within Arvada Fire are not voting on the merger this November is because this proposal will not affect their mill levy. Meanwhile, citizens within Fairmount will be voting on a proposed mill levy increase of 3.91 mills to match the mill levy paid for by property owners within Arvada Fire. This increase in Fairmount’s mill levy is needed for the merger to take place. Both of our fire districts share a border 11 miles in length and are accredited with a Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Offices. We share automatic aid agreements and have trained together extensively during quarterly multi-company drills. By coordinating efforts and combining resources such as personnel, apparatus, facilities, and expertise, the fire districts can create a more effective emergency response and optimize resource allocation. For Arvada Fire, the merger stands to bring several benefits at no additional costs to our taxpayers. These include enhanced wildfire response capabilities, the addition of apparatus and personnel, and room for additional growth. For Fairmount, this merger offers a solution to financial, retention, and sustainability challenges facing their district. They would also notably receive a larger response force to emergencies and 24/7 Advanced Life Support and medical transport services, which their district currently does not provide. Regardless of the outcome of this proposal, our citizens can continue to expect the highest level of professionalism and top-rate emergency response services. More information about the merger is available at the Arvada Fire website. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 19 I August - September 2024 A Journey Through Firefighting History Arvada Fire congratulates the City of Arvada on the 120th anniversary of their incorporation. Although Arvada Fire is a special district separate from city government, we partner and collaborate with the City in many areas, such as emergency management during disasters. To acknowledge this special milestone, we wanted to share with you about firefighting history in Arvada nearly 120 years ago. Articles of Incorporation for the Town of Arvada were filed on August 24, 1904. Arvada’s firefighting history began a few years later. In 1907, the Arvada Town Board approved the purchase of Arvada's first fire engine. The hand-drawn chemical fire engine arrived by rail from New York City four months later, and efforts to organize a volunteer fire company came shortly thereafter. Arvada's first "fire engine house" was located not far from the water tower that serves as Olde Town Arvada's most distinguished landmark. The engine house was nothing more than a small shelter designed to protect the engine from frost. A group of volunteers known as the Arvada Fire Compa ny was established early in 1908. By the fall of 1909, these volunteers were equipped with a ladder, 100 feet of fire hose, two hand axes and six lanterns, in addition to 14 portable fire extinguishers and the Rex chemical engine purchased in 1907. Arvada's hose companies consolidated and recorded the formation of the Arvada Fire Department in 1911. At that time, Arvada consisted of about 840 residents and enough small businesses to provide townspeople with essential goods and services. The early Arvada Fire Department was funded primarily by appropriations from the town board and profits from dances held on the second floor of the First National Bank building. A successful dance could add $20 to the department treasury. What was firefighting like all those years ago? Needless to say, it was a very different job than it is today. Firefighters lacked nearly all the protective equipment and technology we rely on to fight today’s fires. In our countries’ history, bucket brigades were widely used until the mid-1900s as volunteers passed buckets of water from a well to a fire, and back again to be re-filled. To stop fires from spreading from one building to another, firefighters used hooks and chains to pull down walls and form a fire break. For instance, in the year the City of Arvada was incorporated, the Great Baltimore Fire of 1904 burned more than 1,500 buildings. It was only years later that fire engines with internal combustion engines slowly replaced horse-drawn steam engines. Arvada's first motorized fire engine was a 1923 Graham Brothers chemical engine purchased in Denver. Arvada's first ambulance began operating in 1939. Arvada Fire became a fire protection special tax district in May of 1949. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 20 I August - September 2024 Drug take back and disposal Safe medication and needle disposal options Medicine take back options and permanent disposal sites are the best way to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription and nonprescription medicines. Safely disposing of these unused and expired medications is one of the most important things you can do to keep them from falling into the wrong hands. Individuals who use needles or sharps also need to be careful with how they dispose of their used sharps. Although Arvada Fire stations and facilities do not provide medicine or sharps disposal services, numerous disposal drop boxes and sites are located throughout the Denver metro area. Drug Take-Back Day Twice a year, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office joins law enforcement agencies nationwide to remove potentially dangerous controlled substances from our nation’s medicine cabinets. Drug Take-Back Day allows the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications for destruction. The DEA holds the National Drug Take-Back events in October and April each year. Permanent Medication Disposal Drop Boxes The Sheriff’s Office has installed four safe disposal sites for residents to drop off unused or expired household medications throughout the county, including the Sheriff’s Office lobby in Golden. Prescription, over-the-counter medications, and vitamins can be disposed of in these drop boxes. However, sharps items, chemotherapy medication, and marijuana products may not be disposed of in drop boxes. The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) also offers several permanent disposal drop boxes located at pharmacies and health care facilities. The closest locations are in Wheat Ridge and Westminster. Do not flush medications down the toilet or drain. Flushing even small quantities of household medications can contaminate drinking water supplies. Before taking medicine to any drop-off program, be sure to peel the label and remove any identifying information on the medicine. Household Needle and Used Sharps Disposal Needles should always be handled with care! Sharps should never be thrown loosely into the trash or toilet, and sharps should never be recycled. Household needle collections locations can also be found through CDPHE and SafeNeedleDisposal.org. Household needles can be disposed of safely though your trash if they are placed in a proper container, marked and sealed. Follow the proper criteria to safely dispose of needles: • Use a sharps container purchased from a pharmacy or other source, or use a strong plastic container with a screw-top lid. Used laundry detergent bottles work well. • Containers of sharps should be clearly labeled as “Sharps” or "Biohazard Waste.” • Once filled, the container should be firmly sealed (tape the lid) to prevent spillage. • Store the sealed sharps container away from children and pets. • Place the sealed sharps container in the trash on the day it gets picked up or taken to a landfill. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 21 I August - September 2024 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 22 I August - September 2024 COMMUNITYCALENDAR AUGUST 3 Pollinator Garden Tour Visit the Majestic View Nature website 4 Arvada Fire Firefighters Car Fest Visit the Arvada Fire website 6 National Night Out (see page 10) 9 Movies Around Town (see page 8) 10 Bulky Item Drop-off Event (see page 6) 10 Second Saturday Visit the Olde Town Arvada website 24 Arvada Historical Society Reunion Picnic Visit the Arvada Historical Society website 24 Arvada Days (see page 8) SEPTEMBER 2 Ralston Central Splash Pad closes Visit the City's website 6 Movies Around Town (see page 8) 6- 8 Harvest Festival and Parade Visit the Arvada Harvest Festival Parade website Rocky Mt. Archtop Guitar Festival Visit the Arch Top Festival website 13- 15 21 Arvada Historical Society Cemetery Tour (see page 12) 28 Arvada Fire Safety Day (see page 20) 30 Olde Town Water Fountain closes Visit the City's website Bike Friendly Arvada Community Bike Rides Family and Recreational Community Bike Rides are offered all summer long! For more info and to sign up for a ride, visit the meetup.com website. Arvada Community Garden 29th Annual Open House Aug. 17, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free lunch at noon, gate prizes, put-n-take table, kids gifts, garden tours, free seeds and herb plants and scavenger hunt. Chili Roasting and Apple Pressing event Sept. 14, 8 a.m. to noon. Bring your own chilis for roasting and your own apples for pressing to make apple juice. For more information, visit Arvada Gardeners website. Arvada Library to undergo renovations Jefferson County Public Library is planning the redesign of the Arvada Library, located within the Olde Town Arvada historic district, adjacent to the Olde Town Square. The library, which opened in 2006, is due for a remodel to keep up with the growing needs of the community. Learn more about the project by visiting the JeffCo Library website. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 23 I August - September 2024 Hospitality Heroes of Arvada Brought to you by the Arvada Visitors Center Marc Baldridge Building Chief Engineer Residence Inn by Marriott Get to know Marc Baldridge with Arvada’s newest hotel, the Residence Inn by Marriott. Nominated by General Manager Aaron Sperle, Marc’s tireless work ethic, wittiness and team-first approach have made him an irreplaceable employee. Marc commutes daily from Loveland to Arvada and says he has fallen in love with our community. Aaron said, “When I ac cepted the GM position to open the Residence Inn, Marc was my first choice to reach out to. I could not be happier having Marc lead the engineering team for this beautiful property. To be honest, this hotel might not have opened on time if it wasn’t for the extra work Marc put in getting the hotel ready.” What is the favorite part of your job? My favorite part of the job is simply making our customers happy one at a time. Our company lives by the philosophy, “100% satisfaction guaranteed.” Aaron, my manager, empowers me to make every experience just that for each customer that stays at our hotel. Simply put, it’s fun to make the customer smile every day. Do you have a “mantra” to live by? Something that guides you in work, personal and beyond? Keep your cup full so you can give to others; don’t try to give from a depleted cup. Keep work- life balances . . . prioritize God, {your} wife, children, and then work. Work hard and don’t be lazy. Do your best. And when you have done your best, and you have been truthful, there’s nothing to hide. What is your favorite way to spend a day off from work? One of my favorite things to do when I am not working is enjoy the Pier 8 Restaurant. To me, this is one of the best restaurants in the state of Colorado. If someone has not been to the Marriott yet . . . what is something special that they should know about your hotel? What you need to know about our hotel is that we actually care about every single guest in our 128- room property. If you are not pleased, we will make it right with you. And if you doubt this, please put us to the test. We take care of every guest and we guarantee it. Our hotel has been so busy since we opened, maybe because of this level of service we provide. Thank you, Arvada community. Hospitality is defined as “the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.” Do you know of a Hospitality Hero in Arvada that deserves some special recognition? Please email [EMAIL REDACTED] to nominate them. Each Hero that is recognized will be featured in an up coming issue of the Arvada Report and receive a $250 gift card to an Arvada restaurant or retailer. The Arvada Visitors Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that works to inspire travel to our community and provides key information to people considering a visit or relocation to Arvada. They have proudly welcomed thousands of guests from around the world since their doors opened on 7305 Grandview Ave. in November 2012. ---PAGE BREAK--- 8101 Ralston Road Arvada, Colorado 80002 Arvada Postal Patron