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December 2024 - January 2025 Cover photo taken by Arvada resident Sasha Montney at Majestic View Park In this edition: Exciting parks updates - page 4 - 5 Preparing for winter - pages 12 and 13 Holiday events in Arvada - page 22 Cover photo taken by Arvada resident Sasha Montney at Majestic View Park ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 2 I December 2024 - January 2025 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 of Arvada website. Mayor Lauren Simpson [PHONE REDACTED] LSimpson@ arvada.org Councilmember At Large Sharon Davis [PHONE REDACTED] SDavis@ arvada.org Councilmember At Large Seat vacant Selection in process 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 Engage at the City of Arvada Speak Up website Visit the City of Arvada website Call us [PHONE REDACTED] Follow us @CityofArvada Inquire at the City of Arvada website Subscribe to the City of Arvada website Emergency 9-1-1 Jeffcom [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 Arvada. 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. VACANT ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 3 I December 2024 - January 2025 City of Arvada's budget: financial stability and community benefits In October, the Arvada City Council adopted the 2025/2026 Budget, kicking off our new two-year bud get cycle. Arvada uses a blend of short-term, two-year budgets and a long-range, 10-year financial model. This approach helps us address immediate needs while ensuring long-term financial stability. By carefully balancing today’s priorities with future planning, we can keep the City financially secure, even during economic fluctuations. For example, during the 2020 economic downturn, Arvada maintained critical services and staff ing levels thanks to our long-term financial strategy. Our commitment to fiscal responsibility has also allowed Arvada to retain its AAA bond rating, the highest possible credit rating for a government organization. Arvada is one of only 153 cities nationwide to hold this prestigious rating, placing us among a select group of fi nancially strong and well-managed municipalities. This rating reflects not only our financial strength but also the sound governance that underpins it. For residents, the AAA rating brings tangible bene fits. It allows the City to borrow at lower interest rates, supporting critical services, infrastructure projects and long-term economic stability. It’s a clear sign that tax dollars are being managed wisely, contributing to a re silient and financially healthy community that continues to deliver the high level of services our residents expect. For more information, visit the City website. Want to learn more? Check out our recent episode 15 of the Inside Arvada podcast with City of Arvada Finance Director Bryan Archer who discussed the City budget, taxes, bond projects and more with the podcast team. Inside Arvada is available wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit the City website to listen. Study Session on Homelessness Action Strategy In response to input from the community, the Arvada City Council has paused immediate action on the Homelessness Action Strategy, including plans for the site at 4905 W. 60th Ave., to allow for further review and collab- oration with the public. A Study Session for the Arvada City Council to learn and reflect on the City's vision for addressing homelessness will be held on Dec. 7, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Commu- nity members can stream the session live via Zoom, and a recording will be available later on the City’s YouTube channel. The link to watch live will be available beginning Thursday, Dec. 5 at the City website in the Dec. 7 council agenda. Please note: Study Sessions are not open for in-person attendance and do not include a public comment period. AAC Now Open! The Arvada Aquatics Center (AAC) is now open! A collaboration between the City of Arvada, Jeffco Pub lic Schools and Apex Park and Recreation District, this state-of-the-art facility includes a 50-meter competition pool with adjustable bulkheads, a 25-yard auxiliary pool, a diving well with platforms and springboards, and seating for over 1,400 spectators and participants. With ADA- accessible changing rooms and sustainable design features, the AAC is ready for both recreational use and competitive events. Visit the City website for more information and look for photos and more about the pool features in the February/March Arvada Report. In the meantime, head over to 7904 Carr Drive and dive into the fun today! ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 4 I December 2024 - January 2025 Stevenson hired as City’s new VCN Director The City of Arvada is pleased to announce Jermel Ryan Stevenson (goes by Ryan) as the new Director of Vibrant Community and Neighborhoods (VCN). Stevenson brings over 20 years of experience in parks, recreation and urban design, having held leadership roles in cities such as Overland Park, Kansas; Corpus Christi, Texas; and Garland, Texas. In his most recent role as Director of Parks and Recreation for Overland Park, Stevenson led a major merger of the Parks and Recreation departments, developed long-term strategic plans, and implemented a $3 million compensation project to increase wages for staff. He also oversaw the construction of a $22 million Visitor Center at the Arboretum and restructured the city’s urban forestry and aquatics programs. "We are excited to have Ryan Stevenson join our team," Interim City Manager Linda Haley said. "His extensive leadership experience will bring fresh vision and energy to our community." Stevenson will lead Arvada's VCN work system, which provides a wide range of services including parks, urban design, golf course and restaurant management, the Majestic View Nature Center, festivals, and arts and culture. “I’m honored to join the City of Arvada," Stevenson said. "This is an active and forward-thinking community, and I am excited to work alongside the talented staff within the VCN work system as well as City leadership.” City secures $7.3 million grant for Gold Strike Park The City of Arvada was recently awarded $7.3 million through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) grant program to revitalize Gold Strike Park, the historic site of Colorado's first documented gold discovery. It’s the single largest grant the City has received for a City-sponsored project. Planned enhancements to Gold Strike Park include a nature playground, water-play area, bouldering feature, event lawn, pavilion and pedestrian bridge. The project will also protect sensitive areas along Ralston Creek and create more recreational opportunities for the growing community. "This investment will honor Arvada’s rich history while creating a welcoming space for families, neighbors and visitors to gather and connect with nature,” Arvada Mayor Lauren Simpson said. “As our city grows, it’s critical to prioritize access to outdoor spaces that foster both recreation and environmental stewardship.” Gold Strike Park, listed on the State Register of Historic Places, has long been envisioned as a hub for both historical and ecological exploration. The City’s redesign efforts, guided by community input, aim to balance these elements. Work on Phase 1 of the project is expected to begin in the fall of 2025. The ORLP grant advances national goals to improve equitable access to outdoor spaces, particularly in underserved communities. The City of Arvada is thrilled to continue moving this long-awaited project forward with the help of this significant federal investment. For more information, visit the City website. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 5 I December 2024 - January 2025 The Standley Lake Library Trailhead is now open In November, the City of Arvada and Jefferson County Public Library (JCPL) celebrated the opening of the new Standley Lake Library Trailhead. The new trailhead provides the community with improved access to the Rocky Mountain Greenway (RMG) and surrounding public trails. The RMG is a regional network of trails that connect the three National Wildlife Refuges in the Front Range – Rocky Mountain Arsenal in Commerce City, Two Ponds in Arvada and Rocky Flats in northwest Arvada/Superior. The vision of the RMG is to eventually provide trail connections to Rocky Mountain National Park. The Standley Lake Library Trailhead creates the first trailhead in Arvada that directly connects to the RMG. The trailhead, located just west of the Standley Lake Library (8485 Kipling St.), features multiple ADA- accessible paved routes, linking the library parking lot and Kipling Street to the central trailhead and the RMG. Designed with inclusivity and community in mind, the trailhead offers amenities such as a shaded plaza, seating areas, bike racks, wayfinding signage and educational interpretive displays. In addition to serving outdoor enthusiasts, the trailhead will benefit local library patrons and more than 3,500 stu dents from six schools within a 1.5-mile radius. Funded in part by a 2021 Trails Partnership Program Grant from Jeffco Open Space, the project broke ground in March 2024 and reached completion this fall. We invite all Arvada residents to explore this beautiful new trailhead and enjoy the connection it provides to nature, recreation and our community! Garrison Garden Paseo is Arvada’s new unique linear park In October, the City of Arvada and the Arvada Urban Renewal Authority (AURA) officially opened the City's newest park, the Garrison Garden Paseo. Located just west of the Arvada Community Garden, “the Paseo” is a linear park that provides non-motorized users with an enhanced connection between 57th Avenue to the south and Ralston Road to the north. The park’s name, Garrison Garden Paseo, reflects both its proximity to the Arvada Community Garden and the Spanish term paseo, meaning walkway or boulevard. Designed to make the neighborhood more walkable, the park provides improved accessibility with a more gentle slope for pedestrians and cyclists. The Paseo also provides direct access to nearby commu nity amenities to the north, such as Ralston Central Park, the Ralston Creek Trail and local businesses – many of which are planned to open in the area over the next sever al years. The park includes two paths: One main section that con nects 57th Avenue to Ralston Road, and a second elevated section just to the east that leads to a shaded overlook, where users can take in some of the best mountain views in the city. The lower main path runs along a cobble streambed, where tailwater from the Swadley Ditch flows above ground before merging with Ralston Creek. The trail also provides users with an interactive experience featuring demonstration gardens that celebrate Arvada’s rich agri cultural history. AURA, which focuses on eliminating blight and im proving urban spaces, collaborated with the City to turn this area into a vibrant community space. The Garrison Garden Paseo not only provides safer connections but also strengthens the City’s park system by creating a welcom ing environment for relaxation and recreation. This new addition reflects Arvada’s commitment to en hancing public spaces that connect neighborhoods and improve quality of life for all residents. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 6 I December 2024 - January 2025 New developments on the horizon: exciting projects in the Ralston Creek District The Ralston Creek District is buzzing with activity as two major projects are set to transform the area and create vibrant new spaces for the community. From a fami ly-friendly beer garden to new housing options, these de velopments will enhance the district’s appeal and provide new opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Arvada Urban Renewal Authority (AURA) is proud to partner with local developers to bring these transforma tive projects to the community. Arvada Beer Garden: A Community Gathering Place Construction is officially underway for the new Arvada Beer Garden, located at the northwest corner of Garrison Street and Ralston Road in the heart of the Ralston Creek District. Spearheaded by City Street Investors (CSI), the project broke ground in August and is expected to be completed by spring of 2025. The Arvada Beer Garden will offer a family-friendly atmosphere resembling a park more than a typical restaurant. Situated across from Ralston Central Park and near the Ralston Creek trail, the beer garden’s design is inspired by the community’s character. CSI’s approach will incorpo rate Arvada’s unique history, featuring green spaces, stone facades and landscaped rolling hills that will encourage a welcoming, communal experience. The space will include Oktoberfest-style picnic tables, making it the perfect set ting for families and friends to gather. CSI has a strong track record in creating beloved commu nity spaces, with their Edgewater Beer Garden and Lowry Beer Garden both being well-known for their inviting atmospheres. In fact, Lowry Beer Garden was named one of the 10 Best Beer Gardens in the United States by *USA Today* for the past three years. With the Arvada Beer Garden, CSI aims to continue this tradition of excellence, while infusing a distinct Arvada feel that will make this space a unique destination for years to come. Ralston Commons: New Housing and Community Amenities Another transformative project in the district is Ralston Commons, a residential development set to bring new housing options and enhanced public spaces. Developed by Ralston Creek North LLC, the project broke ground in August and is slated for completion in late 2026. It will feature 185 modern apartments housed in two three-story buildings above garden-level parking garages. Beyond providing much-needed housing, Ralston Com mons will also contribute to the vibrancy of the Ralston Creek area by improving public access and amenities along its northern border. The completion of these proj ects will help strengthen the connectivity of Ralston Creek to the regional bike trail system to the north, making it easier for residents and visitors to explore the area by foot or bike. With these two developments, the Ralston Creek District is poised to become an even more dynamic and welcom ing community hub. To learn more about AURA and it’s projects, please visit the AURA website . ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 7 I December 2024 - January 2025 Arvada sees positive uptick in health and wellness industry Although time has passed since the de-escalation of the Covid-19 pandemic, certain industries are just now returning to a sense of real normalcy and, in some fortu nate cases, real growth. Due to the various safety measures enacted to help mitigate the spread of illness and limit in-person activities, many health and wellness businesses took a big hit. However, the AEDA team is happy to re port that the health and wellness industry has had a steady resurgence in Arvada and is now thriving. In fact, in Q4 of 2021, Arvada was home to 46 health and fitness busi nesses and today, Arvada is home to more than 70 such businesses. Of note, the City has seen a positive uptick in boutique fitness centers ranging from yoga, Pilates and dance studios to new gyms and franchise operations. “Following the pandemic, people have been focused on connecting and participating in health-centric activities in person,” said Iza Petrykowska, Executive Director of AEDA. “It’s really exciting to see these new fitness centers opening in Arvada. Our residents now have a variety of ways to get healthy and build community while doing it.” Olde Town Athlete - 5720 N. Lamar St. - Unit 5 Olde Town Athlete, a family-run gym in Olde Town Arvada focused on serving clients who are 35+, is a great example of a fitness center that opened in Arvada within the last few years. Colby Knepp, owner of Olde Town Athlete, is happy to provide a new fitness op tion to Arvada residents: “As a family-run gym, Olde Town Athlete is deeply connected to the Arvada community. When we decided to open in Arvada, we were drawn to the city's strong sense of community and active lifestyle, which aligned perfectly with our mission to support residents in leading healthier, more fulfilling lives,” Knepp said. For more information about Olde Town Athlete, visit the Olde Town Athlete wbsite. Owner Colby Knepp with his children Rush Bowls - 8031 Wadsworth Blvd. - Unit a5 Along with new ways to exercise, Arvada also has fresh options for healthy eating. Rush Bowls, lo cated at W. 80th Ave. and Wadsworth Blvd., serves fruit and all-natural food bowls, smoothies, and snack bites—ideal for a light meal or hearty snack. “Our bowls are made from clean ingredients and we make everything in house from fresh fruits and vegetables. There isn’t anything scoopable in our bowls that’s made offsite, which really sets Rush Bowls apart from others,” said Lisa Kerns, owner of Rush Bowls in Arvada. “We live in an Arvada bubble and love it here . . . it was really important to me that we open our store in our commu nity. Even though it’s a franchise location, it has a mom- and-pop feel to it,” Lisa mentioned. For more information about Rush Bowls, visit the Rush Bowls website. The Kerns family For a complete listing of health and wellness businesses in Arvada, visit the AEDA website or give us a call at [PHONE REDACTED]. 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 8 I December 2024 - January 2025 City of Arvada to adopt new building codes in 2025 The City of Arvada’s Community and Economic De velopment team is excited to share that the City will be adopting new building codes in 2025. The primary goal of adopting new building codes is to continue to ensure and improve the safety of the buildings in Arvada that we live, work and play in. New permitted residential and commercial building con struction in Arvada is currently under the governance of the International Code Council’s (ICC) 2018 set of build ing codes. It’s important to note that the ICC is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions, which are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide. The City will continue to use ICC building codes, but will update the whole family of codes to their 2024 set of standards, the most current available. “The Building Division here at the City is excited to be embarking on the adoption of ICC’s 2024 set of building codes during the next calendar year,” said Justin Clark, Arvada’s Chief Building Official. “The safety of our residents is always our top priority and the adoption of the 2024 codes will help us continue in achieving this standard.” Prior to the formal adoption of the codes, the Community and Economic Development team will work to engage with the local building community inclusive of contrac tors, builders and developers to make sure that all those impacted by the code update are informed and ready for the changes. Additionally, the team will meet with the City’s Building Code Advisory Board and the Board of the Arvada Economic Development Association (AEDA) to ensure alignment on the code adoption with industry experts. Ultimately, the team will bring the proposed code adoption to the City Council for their final approval. If you have any questions about the City’s building codes and plans for the adoption of the new codes in 2025, please contact the City’s Building Division via phone or email at [PHONE REDACTED] or [EMAIL REDACTED]. For more information about the International Code Council, visit the International Code Council website. Olde Town Arvada’s oldest house turns 150! The beautiful Victorian house at 7401 Grandview Ave., built by Benjamin Wadsworth in 1874, has reached a sig nificant milestone – 150 years old! The house became the home and office of two very prominent figures in Arvada history, Dr. Richard R. Russell and Dr. Edwin L. Foster, both of whom eventually had local elementary schools named for them! Dr. Russell and his wife, Estelle, purchased the house in 1902, which also housed his medical practice. Dr. Russell was noted for saving the lives of many Arvadans during the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic, but he is most remembered for his relentless persistence in facilitating the incorpora tion of Arvada into a self-governing city. Three times he brought the question of incorporation to the voters. On the third try, in 1904, Arvada voted to become a town, and Dr. Russell became its first mayor. In 1907, Dr. Russell sold his home and practice to Dr. Foster and his wife, Hortense. Dr. Foster practiced med icine, delivered babies and was active in Arvada politics. Dr. and Mrs. Foster lived in the house until they passed away in 1960. His carriage house still stands at the back of the property, and many Arvadans still tell stories of him traveling to farms to deliver babies back in the day. Today, the house is owned by Lori and Roger Drienka, who operate two businesses there. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 9 I December 2024 - January 2025 Join a City board or commission Serving on a Council-appointed board or commission is a wonderful way to engage with City government and contribute to the quality of life in Arvada. These boards bring together residents with wide-ranging interests and expertise and take on important issues that shape Arvada’s future. Six boards will have vacancies in 2025: • City of Arvada Retirement Plan Board • Festivals Commission • Park Advisory Committee • Planning Commission • Sustainability Advisory Committee • Transportation Committee To learn more about the functions of these boards and commissions, please visit the City website. How to apply for a City board or commission • Your application can be completed/submitted online at the City website. • If you would like a printed application, please contact the Clerk's office at [PHONE REDACTED]. • Please fill out an application for each board/commission to which you are applying (you may apply for up to three boards/commissions, but you can only serve on one at a time). • Applications open Dec. 1 and are due by noon on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. Thank you. Your interest is appreciated. "Being a member of the Sustainability Advisory Committee has allowed me to lend my professional experience in energy efficiency to matters affecting my community. It is a pleasure working with members with diverse back grounds, learning more about what sustainability means to all of them and making a positive impact citywide. My involvement has only increased my passion for Arvada, civic service and creating a sustainable future." Sustainability Advisory board member Alex Pray Community Table 25 X 25 Campaign Help collect 25,000 pounds of nonperishable food by Dec. 25! Community Table relies on donated food to help feed thousands of hungry families every year. Next time you’re grocery shopping, please pick up a few extra items for those who do not have enough to eat. Personal care products are also needed. From now until Dec. 25, you can drop your food donations at locations across Arvada. Learn more at the Community Table website. Trees Across Arvada Trees Across Arvada is an annual program that provides the community a chance to purchase affordable shade trees through a partnership with the Colorado Tree Coalition. Planting shade trees is a great way to beautify your home, lower energy costs and add to Arvada’s tree diversity. Trees Across Arvada Details: • Once established, all trees are all low- to moderately- low water use varieties. • Trees cost $85 - $90 each • Orders and payments are due Feb. 1, 2025. (The availability of some trees is limited, so order early). • Pick up your trees at the Majestic View Nature Center in April. Visit the City website for more information. ---PAGE BREAK--- RESPECT, DEDICATION, RESPONSIBILITY. WE WILL ALWAYS STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE The Arvada Report I 10 I December 2024 - January 2025 Arvada Police Department enhances investigations with facial recognition technology In December 2023, the Arvada Police Department (APD) announced it had met all legal requirements to utilize facial recognition (FR) technology for investigations. This system analyzes photos of unknown individuals and compares them to a database of known booking photos, generating a score that indicates the likelihood of a match. While matches can serve as valuable evidence, they cannot solely justify an arrest. A report is written to document the results of every FR search and, when FR is used in a criminal prosecution, it is disclosed to the District Attor ney's Office and the defendant. In January 2024, APD reintroduced the use of FR technol ogy, becoming one of just six law enforcement agencies in Colorado to do so. Over the past year, this tool has signifi cantly enhanced APD's investigative capabilities. A notable case involved a shoplifting incident at Target, where officers detained a female suspect without an iden tification document. Unable to verify the verbal identity provided by the suspect, an officer took her photo and used the FR program, which returned a match with a 99% probability. To confirm the match, the officer checked for a matching tattoo, which led the suspect to admit her real identity and that she had tried to use her sister’s name. Had she been booked under her sister's name, it would have resulted in a felony criminal impersonation charge, further complicating the situation for both her and her sister. This incident illustrates how the responsible use of FR technology can support law enforcement efforts while ensuring accountability in the identification process. For more insights, including the officer's body-worn camera footage and statistical data on APD’s use of FR technology in 2024, visit the Arvada Police website. “The Arvada Police Department has found this tool to be invaluable. We have taken every step to ensure we’re using the best and most reliable technology. That technology will generate higher-quality results to protect our community and individual civil liberties.” Chief Ed Brady Auto Theft Reduction and Recovery Program The Arvada Police Department has received funding from the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) to create programs that prevent auto theft and support enforcement efforts. As part of this initiative, the Arvada PD Auto Theft Reduction & Recovery Program is offering free vehicle trackers to community members who: 1. Live or work in Arvada, or 2. Are recent auto theft victims, or 3. Own a vehicle on CATPA's top 10 most stolen vehicles list Trackers will be available at installation events on Jan. 18 and April 12. To participate, register and schedule an appointment online at the City website. For more details about CATPA and the list of the most stolen vehicles, visit the Lock Down Your Car website. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 11 I December 2024 - January 2025 Ralston House gives child victims a voice At Ralston House, more than 1,000 children will come through our front doors this year to give a voice to the abuse or trauma they have experienced. When an outcry of abuse is made, Ralston House responds. Working closely with law enforcement, child protective services and the district attorney’s offices, Ralston House conducts forensic interviews in a safe and comfortable environment. Ralston House provides services in Adams, Broomfield, Gilpin and Jefferson counties. Please help us give a voice to child victims. By making an end-of-year contribution to Ralston House, you will make a difference in the life of a child victim. Visit the Colorado Gives website to today to make an impact on a child’s life we’ll serve this winter. You can help open the door to hope for a child. Help Ralston House STOP THE ABUSE and START THE HEALING. Please visit the Ralston House website to see how you can help. If you see abuse, report it to your local Department of Social Services, call 911 or call 1-844-CO-4KIDS (1-[PHONE REDACTED]). If you want to help prevent child abuse, donate to Ralston House. Your donation helps us to provide child-friendly forensic services and support to every child who needs us. “Very kind and helpful. Made a difficult situation easier.” From a parent client. “I love it here. It’s a great place when I need help. ” From a child client. Give where you live on Colorado Gives Day This Colorado Gives Day, Tuesday, Dec. 10, Arvada residents have the opportunity to support local charities that strengthen our community. These organizations, right here in Arvada, provide vital services—assisting families in need, supporting arts and culture, preserving our history, caring for seniors and youth and more. Your contribution, no matter the size, helps these nonprofits continue their important work. Together, we can build a stronger community this Colorado Gives Day! Visit the Colorado Gives website and search “Arvada.” Stay warm this winter with LEAP The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) helps cover heating and energy costs for families and individuals that qualify. LEAP accepts applications every year beginning Nov. 1 through April 30. LEAP is not intended to pay the entire cost of home heating, but rather to help alleviate some of the burden associated with the colder months. To see if you qualify for LEAP and to apply, visit the Jefferson County website or call [PHONE REDACTED]. ---PAGE BREAK--- When the snow flies . . . As winter approaches, it’s important to be prepared for Colorado’s unpredictable weather. From safe driving practices to home energy efficiency, there are many ways to ensure both safety and comfort during the colder months. In this guide, we share practical tips to help you get ready, including what to do during “Accident Alert,” knowing the City’s plow routes, where to sign up for Lookout Alert and the importance of checking in on your neighbors. By staying aware and prepared, we can help ensure a safer, smoother winter season for everyone. On the road Winter driving tips - when snow is falling or roads are icy When roads are covered in snow or ice, driving requires extra caution. Follow these guidelines to reduce the risk of accidents: • Reduce speed to allow for better control in icy conditions. • Increase following distance to give yourself more time to react. • Avoid sudden braking and acceleration, which can cause skidding. • Use lower gears when going downhill or navigating slippery surfaces for better control. Traffic lights and power outages If traffic lights are out due to a power outage or ob scured by snow, treat the intersection as a four-way stop. Yield to the first car to arrive or, if arriving at the same time, yield to the car on your right. Always pro ceed with extreme caution, and don’t assume others will follow the rules. Accident Alert – what it means During severe weather, the Arvada Police Department may issue an “Accident Alert.” This means police will only respond to crashes if: • The vehicles are undrivable, • There are injuries requiring medical attention, • Alcohol or drugs are suspected, • There is a hit-and-run, or • Public property is damaged. In other cases, drivers should exchange information and file a report online at the Department of Motor Vehivles website within 60 days. City snow removal routes The City’s snow removal team prioritizes the most trafficked roads, trails and sidewalks for plowing. This includes arterial roads (like W. 80th Ave. or Carr Street), collector roads that run through neighborhoods, and school zones.* For trails and sidewalks, routes connecting to schools and recreation centers are addressed first to ensure safety. Find a map of snow removal routes and answers to common questions at the City website. *The CIty’s plow routes include school zones but not school bus routes, which can change at the discretion of the school district. Since school bus routes are not managed by the City, they cannot be consistently reflected in our route mapping. Around the house Winter home energy tips – be warm and efficient Staying warm doesn’t have to be costly. Here are some tips from the U.S. Department of Energy to help you save mon ey while keeping your home comfortable: • Use the sun’s heat: Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day to let sunlight warm your home naturally. Close them at night to keep the cold out. • Insulate drafty windows: Use heavy-duty plastic or tight-fitting, insulated drapes to block drafts from win dows. • Adjust your thermostat: Lower your thermostat when you’re not home or sleeping. You can save up to 10% a year by making small adjustments, and a programmable thermostat can help. • Seal leaks: Prevent drafts by sealing gaps around utility cut-throughs, chimneys, recessed lights and doors or windows. • Maintain your heating system: Schedule regular service for your heating system and replace filters regularly to keep it running efficiently. • Reduce fireplace heat loss: Keep the damper closed when the fireplace isn’t in use to prevent warm air from escaping. • Lower water heating costs: Set your water heater to 120°F to save energy and avoid scalding. • Switch to LED holiday lights: Using energy-efficient LED holiday lights can reduce your electricity costs during the festive season. For more tips on saving energy, visit the Department of Energy website. Sidewalk snow removal Don’t forget to clear your sidewalks after it snows! City code requires sidewalks to be shoveled within 24 hours of the snow stopping. If you notice that a neighbor has an unshoveled walkway, we encourage you to check in with them to see if they are in need of assistance rather than reporting it as a code violation. Also, be mindful to shovel snow onto your lawn instead of the street. This helps keep roads clear and provides extra moisture for your lawn, contributing to water conservation. Sign up for Make sure you’re ready for winter emergencies by signing up for LookoutAlert, Jefferson County’s emergency notification system. It provides real-time updates on severe weather, road closures, power outages, and more. Sign up today at the Smart911 website. This information is brought to you by our Sustainability, Public Safety and Public Works teams. The Arvada Report I 12 I December 2024 - January 2025 The Arvada Report I 13 I December 2024 - January 2025 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 14 I December 2024 - January 2025 2025 water, sewer and stormwater rates and fees Annual water, sewer and stormwater service rate adjustments help the City continue to maintain, repair and replace our aging utilities systems, much of which was built between the 1960s and 1980s. The bill you pay is an investment in Arvada’s water future and ensures we can continue to provide you with the high-quality services you receive today. The combined water, sewer, stormwater increases for a typical single-family home* will be approximately $11.91 per month, or $23.83 per bill. To learn more, visit the City website. *Typical single-family home usage is based on approximately 95,000 gallons of indoor/outdoor water usage per year, 48,000 gallons of wastewater, and stormwater charges based on 3,000 square feet of impervious surface. IN-CITY RESIDENTIAL USER WATER RATES TIERS 0-30,000 GALLONS PLUS 13,000 GALLONS FOR EACH ADDITIONAL UNIT 30,001-60,000 GALLONS PLUS 26,000 GALLONS FOR EACH ADDITIONAL UNIT 60,001-90,000 GALLONS PLUS 39,000 GALLONS FOR EACH ADDITIONAL UNIT ALL ABOVE 90,000 GALLONS RATES $6.19 per 1,000 Gallons $7.74 per 1,000 Gallons $9.31 per 1,000 Gallons $12.40 per 1,000 Gallons SERVICE CHARGES NUMBER OF UNITS 2-6 Units Single Family Meter 7-18 Units 19-60 Units 61-144 Units Over 144 Units SERVICE CHARGE $21.83 $27.99 $48.93 $66.41 $150.30 $255.16 8,000 GALLONS AVERAGE SINGLE FAMILY HOUSEHOLD WATER USAGE BASED OM WATER TIME USAGE SEWER CHARGES Service Charge $10.44 Usage, per 1,000 Gallons BASED ON WINTER TIME USAGE Rate: $7.46 STORMWATER RATES $0.0038 per square feet of impervious area located on property per billing. DEFINITIONS SERVICE CHARGE: A set fee that does not change month to month. USAGE RATE: Changes based on water usage. UNIT: Part of a building with its own entrance. Either residential or non-residential. Receive bill credit for water sampling in homes built 1983-1987 If you own or rent a home built between 1983 to 1987 you can receive a $25 credit on your water bill by sampling your tap water. The City is looking to expand the residential Lead and Copper tap sampling program by 50 Arvada Water customers. This is open to owners AND renters. Qualifications: • Served by City of Arvada water you or your land lord receive a water bill from the City of Arvada) • Single-family structures built between 1983-1987 • Copper premise plumbing only (if you think you have a lead or galvanized service line, and we haven’t been in contact, please call us immediately!) • No Point-of-Entry filters at the residence, no Point-of- Use filters at the tap • The ability to follow simple sampling instructions • An ongoing commitment (up to twice a year) Learn more about the program and how to participate by contacting the Water Quality Department at 720-898- 7800 or [EMAIL REDACTED]. Other lead and water quality information The City also offers water customers lead or basic water quality testing. Call the Water Quality Department at [PHONE REDACTED] to discuss your concerns and set up a time to sample. For more information about lead in drinking water, and to view our Service Line Inventory map, please visit the City website. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 15 I December 2024 - January 2025 2024 Infrastructure: A year in review Each year, the dedicated City team takes on the vital task of keeping Arvada running smoothly. Whether it's maintaining roads, replacing street signs, upgrading traffic signals or ensuring the water, sewer and storm systems are in top shape, the City team is behind it all. From City vehicles to customer programs, these efforts aren't just routine—they’re the foundation of what keeps Arvada thriving. Take a closer look at some of their hard work. Bond Projects Ralston Road (Complete) 68 trees 959 shrubs 640 ornamental shrubs 312 perennials W. 72nd Avenue 140+ trees 600+ shrubs/plants 1,300+ sprinklers 10,000+ ft of irrigation lines Oak to Kipling section delayed to 2025 Arvada Aquatics Center Complete Nearly Nearly 1 million gallons 1 million gallons of water of water to fill pools to fill pools Designed to Designed to LEED Silver LEED Silver Certification Certification Water, Sewer and Storm Systems 5B+ gallons of water used Peak water use day (July 12, 2024): 39,013,000 gallons 29,400 linear feet (LF) of sewer line rehab 18,700 LF of water line replaced 5,900 LF of new sewer line added 600 LF of storm drain replaced 29+ water main repairs 164 miles of water main flushing 1 new water storage tank 1 lift station improved 3,245 fire hydrants flushed 77% of pre-1960 structures checked, no lead water lines found 55 galvanized lines discovered 26,020+ utility locates 190,856 feet of sewer inspected 226,581 lbs of storm debris removed Snow Season 2023-2024 16 storms 47,206 miles plowed 5,183 hours of staff time 5,438 tons of salt Transportation 8,400+ miles of street sweeping 3,873 potholes filled 207 lane miles treated/repaved 386 sidewalk ramps replaced 22,000 linear feet of curb and gutter replaced 15 new traffic signal detection systems 56,688 trips on micromobility devices (shared e-bikes, scooters) 3 bike/pedestrian safety campaigns (6 school partnerships) Fleet and Sustainability Initiatives 6 fully electric vehicles 36 hybrids 300 vehicles equipped with new tech for enhanced management 2 grants for electric charging stations 712 assets maintained 5 EV charging stations $300,000+ annual savings from solar fields Customer programs 1,757 Ask Arvada requests 13,000+ phone calls answered 4 water conservation programs, including 350 Garden in a Box discounts 17,776 cart service customers in City recycling and trash program 7,510 participants in bulky item drop-off events 127 tons of leaves recycled (2023) ---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 16 I December 2024 - January 2025 Introducing our new-look ambulance By Fire Chief Kirk Lock Medic 54, our ambulance serving out of Station 4 on W. 68th Ave., recently got a makeover while acquiring some new safety features and a fresh look. When an ambulance’s chassis has reached the end of its lifespan, fire districts have two choices: purchase and acquire a brand new ambulance, or “remount” the existing one. Since the box, or patient compartment, often outlasts the chassis, it can be remounted onto a new one. This ap proach is more cost-effective while providing a “like-new” ambulance to the district with several upgrades. After its remount, Medic 54 was placed back into service in the fall of 2024. It has all of the newest technology and components to enable patient and responder safety, such as an an automatic lowering feature to assist with the ease of loading and unloading patients with the electric cot lift system. Medic 54 has a red and black color combination, match ing the look of our recently-acquired Type 3 wildland engine, Brush 59. The new look of the brush truck was very well received by our personnel and our community. Since our firefighters and medics are the ones who ride in and care for these vehicles daily, we asked for their input on our color scheme: blue over white, or black over red? Three-quarters of our members preferred the latter. The new color scheme will be implemented over time as vehi cles naturally retire and are replaced. Beyond aesthetics, red serves an important role for fire apparatus. It’s a traditional color for the fire service and is instantly recognizable as an emergency vehicle on the road. In fact, the shade is so iconic it has a name of its own: fire engine red. There’s no doubt that the color red is linked to the American fire service. According to myth, red may have become the traditional look for fire engines because that color paint was often the cheapest at the turn of the century. Or because red stood out the most com pared to the black cars of the old days. Ultimately, we know that those experiencing an emergen cy don’t much care which color apparatus shows up. They do care, however, that it shows up quickly with highly trained personnel. To that end, Arvada Fire will continue to meet that standard, just as we always have. Photo credit: Ethan Dunlop, 5280Fire ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 17 I December 2024 - January 2025 “Why do fire engines go on medical calls?” Through our emergency dispatch center Jeffcom911, we utilize a systemic program for handling medical emer gencies called Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD). If someone calls 911 for a medical emergency, the dispatch er will follow a guideboard and ask a series of follow up questions to quickly determine the nature and priority of the emergency. This program determines which apparatus should re spond to the emergency and whether or not they need to drive emergent, with lights and sirens, or non-emergent. Some calls, like a general non-life threatening illness, may require just one ambulance to respond non-emergent. The first-arriving unit has the ability to request more resources if they need it. For instance, if it’s safer to lift a patient with four firefighters instead of two. However, an ambulance, fire apparatus, and Battalion Chief would be dispatched for someone in cardiac arrest, which is a call that requires more responders and a more urgent response. This system allows us to make the best use of our available resources and provide the fastest, most appropriate level of care for all emergencies. Another benefit of this system is that it reduces the occasions in which our crews unneces sarily drive emergent, helping keep us safer on the roads. All of our apparatus, including fire apparatus, are staffed with at least one firefighter paramedic and bring Ad vanced Life Support (ALS) capacity to each call. So, don’t be surprised if you call 911 for a medical problem and see a fire engine arrive! You may not know this, but the reverse of this scenario is also true; our ambulances will also respond to fire emer gencies. The ambulance carries our firefighters’ protective gear so they can carry out both patient care or fire tasks at the incident. Have a question for Arvada Fire? Whether you want to ask a firefighter, paramedic, chief or fire marshal, email us at [EMAIL REDACTED] with the subject line “Ask Arvada Fire” and we will answer in the next edition of the Arvada Report! Car seat safety checks with Arvada Fire Road injuries are the leading cause of preventable deaths and injuries to children in the United States. To make matters worse, more than half of all car seats are not used or installed correctly. A free car seat check is the best way to keep your child safe while traveling. Parents, or expecting parents, are welcome to visit any of our fire stations to speak with a Child Passenger Safety Technician on shift. Technicians provide instruction and education on the proper use and installation of car seats. No appointments are needed for a car seat safety check. Drop-ins are encouraged between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. at any fire station or Headquarters. Crews may be unavailable when conducting their duties, like responding to calls. To call ahead about station availability, please call [PHONE REDACTED]. Your car seat safety check will be an interactive, educational process. This one-on-one education typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the car seat and the vehicle. Parents are encouraged to bring your child with you and the car seat instruction manual. For expectant caregivers, schedule an appointment 4 to 6 weeks prior to the baby’s due date. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 18 I December 2024 - January 2025 Stay safe around ice this winter Every year when it gets cold, Arvada Fire responds to 911 emergencies after a person or pet has fallen through ice that couldn’t hold their weight. These are very dangerous incidents. When your body suddenly hits cold water, the shock can cause dramatic changes in breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. The effects of hypothermia can begin to be felt within minutes, eventually leading to diminished physical and mental capacities, making self-rescue very difficult. This is why we remind everyone to play it safe — stay off the ice. In our district, none of our ponds and streams are safe for winter activities. The temperature in the front range frequently swings from below to above freezing, creating highly variable ice thickness. Since you can never judge the strength of ice just from appearance alone on the shore, it's always best to stay off the ice. All of our firefighters are certified and trained in ice rescue. Every winter, our crews will put on their ice rescue suits and take an icy plunge, performing a variety of rescue drills during annual training. Certification also involves time spent in the classroom learning about ice rescues and victim care for patients likely to be experiencing mild to severe hypothermia. Although our responders are trained and ready, we urge the public to avoid an emergency in the first place by using caution around ice. • Make sure your children know not to venture on or play on ice. • When walking around frozen waterways, leash your pets. Many of our ice rescues involve pets. • If someone falls through the ice, do not attempt to rescue them yourself! This often adds an additional victim in need of rescue. • Instead, if you see someone fall through the ice, stay on shore, call 911, and keep a close eye on the location of the victim. • If you fall through the ice, remain calm and continue breathing. Utilize your elbows on the ice for leverage and kick with your legs while pulling yourself out. Get to a warm, dry, sheltered area and rewarm yourself immediately. • If a rescue swimmer reaches you first, please remain calm and listen carefully to their instructions. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 19 I December 2024 - January 2025 ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 20 I December 2024 - January 2025 Holiday recycling guide Did you know the amount of household waste in the United States can increase by 25% during the holidays? Follow these tips to help divert that waste elsewhere! Curbside recycling • Gift Bags (paper and uncoated) • Wrapping Paper (uncoated / non-metallic) • Gift Boxes and Shoe Boxes (paper or cardboard) • Tissue Paper • Holiday Cards and Envelopes (without embellish ments) Reuse it • Ribbons and Bows • Fancy Gift Bags (with foil, lamination or decorations) • Fancy Wrapping Paper (coated, glossy or embellished) Hard-to-recycle items Some items that cannot be included in curbside recy cling bins can still be recycled through our partners at the SustainAbility Zero Waste Center. These items include electronics, styrofoam, holiday lights and more. Find more information at the Sustainability website or in person at 6340 W. 56th Ave. Recycle Christmas trees at Stenger The City of Arvada offers free Christmas tree recycling for Arvada residents at Stenger Sports Complex. Dec. 26 through Jan. 20 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. W. 58th Ave. and Oak St. Make sure that the tree is free of nails, wire and all decorations to ensure the safety of our City staff handling the trees. Only trees are accepted; no garlands, wreaths or yard waste. Personal drop-off only. Please no business or commercial use. Free mulch is available at the drop-off site while supplies last. ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 21 I December 2024 - January 2025 Open Year Round: Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located in 80-acre Majestic View Park, offering The Nature Center is open for public hours Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. See updates and full calendar at Online pre-registration required for all classes. More programs available online! Kids Classes Nature Playdate Thursday, Dec. 12, and Friday, Jan. 17, from 10 to 11 a.m. Geared toward ages 2-12 yrs, free. Nature Storytime Wednesdays, Dec. 18 and Jan. 15, from 10 to 10:30 a.m. All ages, free. the Nature Cent public, school, scout, home school and community gr er website or call 720-898-7 oup pr 405. ograms Thanks to a grant from SCFD, we are now open on Saturdays. Family Classes Astronomy Night Saturday, Jan. 26, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. All ages, free. Meditation with Nature First Sunday of the month from 1 to 2 p.m. Adults, $10. Birding for Everyone Fridays, Dec. 13 and Jan. 10, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Adults, Locations will vary, register in advance to receive location. Mocktail Paint and Sip: Layered Art Prints Thursday, Jan. 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. Adults, $15. Nature Lovers Book Group Wednesdays, Dec. 18 and Jan. 29, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Ages 10+, free. Adult Programs ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 22 I December 2024 - January 2025 COMMUNITYCALENDAR DECEMBER 4 - 5 Therapeutic Recreation Holiday Musical 7 to 9 p.m. Community Recreation Center 6842 Wadsworth Blvd. Apex website 5 Arvada High School Empty Bowls fundraiser 5 to 6:30 p.m. Arvada High School 7951 W. 65th Ave. Jeffco Public Schools website 6 Student Holiday Art Walk/Market 5 to 8 p.m. Olde Town Arvada website 7, 14, 21 Saturdays with Santa and Winter Farmers Market 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Olde Town Square 57th Ave. and Olde Wadsworth Blvd. Olde Town Arvada website 9 Lagniappe and Eggnog/ Cider Competition 5 to 8 p.m. Olde Town Arvada website 9 Arvada Fire Chili Cook-off 6 to 8 p.m. Elks Lodge 5700 Yukon St. (see page 18) 13 Holiday Ice Show 4 to 8:30 p.m. Apex Center 13150 W. 72nd Ave. Apex website 14 Cookies with Santa 9, 10 and 11 a.m. Apex Recreation Center 13150 W. 72nd Ave. Apex website 20 Olde Town Caroling Contest 6 to 8 p.m. Olde Town Arvada website 26-Jan. 2 Christmas Tree Recycling (see page 20) JANUARY 1 Community Chanukah Menorah Lighting 6 to 7 p.m. Olde Town Square 57th Ave. and Olde Wadsworth Blvd. Chabad website 1 Resolute Runner 5K 10 a.m. Memorial Park 8001 W. 59th Ave. Resolute Runner website Water Tower Lighting Schedule Christmas Dec. 24 Hanukkah Dec. 25 Kwanzaa Dec. 26 New Years Eve Dec. 31 Martin Luther Jan. 20 King Jr. Day ---PAGE BREAK--- The Arvada Report I 23 I December 2024 - January 2025 ---PAGE BREAK--- 8101 Ralston Road Arvada, Colorado 80002 Arvada Postal Patron