I S S U E 3 0 | Winter/Spring 2009
www.ci.wheatridge.co.us
In this Issue 2
Mayor’s Corner
3
Community Calendar
4
WRPD Notes
8
Wheat Ridge Senior/ Community Center Hosts Wii Celebration
10
Spring Green Business Showcase
Comprehensive planning project engages residents at first public meeting
The Comprehensive Plan update project is well underway in 2009 with approximately 70 citizens attending the first meeting held on January 13. This meeting was the first in a series of meetings that will be held throughout the course of the project to engage citizens in planning for the future of the community. Why is the City updating the Comprehensive Plan? The Comprehensive Plan is an advisory document that provides guidance and direction to City Council, Planning Commission and City staff on decisions that shape the future of the community. “The Comprehensive Plan is a critical document for the City of Wheat Ridge,” said Ken Johnstone, director of Community Development. “The document outlines a vision for the entire community on how it would like to address change and shape the future for the next 10 to 20 years.” Mayor Jerry DiTullio stresses the importance of citizen involvement in the process of updating the Comprehensive Plan because many aspects of their lives are impacted by the policies and recommendations found in the Plan.
ENVISION WHEAT RIDGE: PLANNING FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE
Save the Dates! 2009 City of Wheat Ridge Large Item Pick up Program
Saturday, May 16 and Saturday, May 23
See page 14 for more details.
“The Comp Plan update is very important because it serves as the basis for many community programs including the capital improvement program, community revitalization and redevelopment, transportation improvements, recreation and open space planning and housing
– Continued on page 5
2
MAYOR’S
CORNER
Mayor’s Art Initiative and Future Park Development at 38th & Kipling Progress is being made on the future park development at 38th & Kipling and I am pleased that the Cultural Commission has recommended the park site as the future home of the Mayor’s Art Initiative Sculpture that will be created by local sculptor, Kevin Robb.
In July 2008, the City of Wheat Ridge Mayor’s Office, in partnership with the Cultural Commission and the Wheat Ridge Foundation, began fundraising efforts to acquire public art. Fundraising continues as plans continue for the park development. In early 2009, the Wheat Ridge City Council awarded the design development contract for the future park site at 38th & Kipling to Design Concepts Landscape Architects in Lafayette, Colo. The award of the construction bid is planned for August 2009 with the construction projected to begin in the fall of 2009. The park will be completed in phases. Generally, Phase I will include utilities, storm drainage, site preparation, the parking lot and interior walkways. Open space funds through Jefferson County are earmarked for the park development over a three year period. Additionally, the City has received a $275,000 Joint Venture grant from Jefferson County that will benefit the park project. For more information on the park development, please contact Joyce Manwaring, Director of Parks and Recreation at 303-231-1307 or E-mail jmanwaring@ci.wheatridge.co.us. Citizens interested in making a tax deductible donation to the Mayor’s Art Initiative can do so by making a check payable to the Wheat Ridge Foundation, please note “Public Art Campaign” on the donation. All donations can be mailed to: Wheat Ridge Foundation, Attn: Mayor’s Office, 7500 W. 29th Ave., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033.
Board and Commission Appointments From this edition forward, the City will begin including Board and Commission appointments in the Connections newsletter. Our citizens who take the step to get involved by volunteering their time and energy on one of the City’s Boards and Commissions are representative of the importance of active involvement in local government in order to make a difference in the community. Board and Commission appointments are made when vacancies occur and advertised by our City Clerk’s Office. I would like to congratulate the following residents that were recently appointed by the City Council in addition to several Mayoral appointments made. Henry Hollender – District III – Planning Commission, Marc Dietrick – District IV – Planning Commission, Barbara Hance – District IV – Animal Welfare & Control, Guy Nahmiach – District III – Parks & Recreation, Geoffrey Wodell – District IV – Cultural Commission, Elizabeth Clark – At Large – Cultural Commission, Paul Shaver – District III – Liquor Authority, Katie Vanderveen – District II – Housing Authority, Becky Bye – District I – Urban Renewal Authority Cheri Jahn – Wheat Ridge Foundation, Ryan Fisher – District II – Board of Adjustment, Robert Howard – Alternate, District IV – Board of Adjustment 2009 Wheat Ridge Civic Academy A great way to get involved in Wheat Ridge government is to learn about how local government works by participating in the 3rd Annual Wheat Ridge Civic Academy. The Academy was created as a way to engage residents who are interested in taking on leadership roles in the community. The Civic Academy will begin in late August 2009. Applications will be available May 1 and will be included in the next edition of the Connections newsletter that will be mailed out in early June. If you are interested in participating in the program and would like to have an application mailed to you, please contact Heather Geyer, Assistant to the City Manager/Public Information Officer at 303-235-2826 or E-mail hgeyer@ci.wheatridge.co.us. Citizens’ Budget Oversight Committee Current economic conditions inspired the need for the creation of the Citizens’ Budget Oversight Committee (CBOC). In February, City Council approved the appointment of citizens to the CBOC. The purpose of this new advisory committee is to provide a “sounding board” to City Council to review City revenues and expenditures. The CBOC may recommend an expense not be incurred in the 2010 budget based on economic conditions and data from the City Manager’s Office. The committee may explore new revenue data and make recommendations to City Council. Likewise, City Council may refer budget questions or issues to the committee for recommendation. For more information on the CBOC, visit the City Website at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, click on Mayor’s Office under the Government tab. The following citizens were appointed to the CBOC: Lena Rotola, City Council, Tracy Langworthy, City Council, Larry Schulz, City Treasurer, Charles Holcer, Citizen District I, Brian Hansen, Citizen District II, Mary Cavarra, Citizen District III, former City Treasurer, George Jorgensen, District IV.
3
MAYOR JUDGE
Jerry DiTullio City Hall: 303-235-2800 303-237-4806 jerryditullio@comcast.net Judge Christopher Randall 303-235-2835
DISTRICT I
CALENDAR
MARCH
COMMUNITY
Karen Berry 303-249-4570 khberry26@hotmail.com Terry Womble 303-420-5335 t.womble@comcast.net
DISTRICT II
25 4 13 13 27 28 11 11 25
CITY CLERK
Comprehensive Plan Meeting, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Wheat Ridge Recreation Center – 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
APRIL
Easter Egg Hunt, FREE - bring a basket! Age divisions: 2 years, 3-4 years, 5-6 years, 7-9 years. Rain date: April 11th Coffee with a Cop, 9-11 a.m. Starbuck’s @ Applewood Shopping Center Wheat Ridge City Council, 7 p.m., Wheat Ridge City Hall Wheat Ridge City Council, 7 p.m., Wheat Ridge City Hall Spring Green Business Showcase, 7:30 to 10 a.m. Wheat Ridge Recreation Center – 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 — See pg 10 for more details
Dean Gokey 303-423-4146 egokey@comcast.net Wanda Sang 303-431-8390 sangjw@netzero.net
DISTRICT III
Karen Adams 303-484-1503 klpa@comcast.net
Mike Stites 303-423-8360 BFTireCO@aol.com
DISTRICT IV
M AY
Coffee with a Cop, 9-11 a.m. Starbuck’s @ Applewood Shopping Center Wheat Ridge City Council, 7 p.m., Wheat Ridge City Hall Memorial Day – Wheat Ridge City Hall Closed. Wheat Ridge Recreation Center will have modified hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lena Rotola 303-424-6582
Tracy Langworthy 303-420-8055 Davidg0123@peoplepc.com
CITY TREASURER
Larry Schulz 303-235-2810 lschulz@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Visit the new City Website at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us and click on the link to “Calendar” for access to information on City meetings, programs and events! Dates subject to change. Confirm with appropriate department. City Council Meeting Agendas can be found online by visiting www.ci.wheatridge.co.us or please contact
Michael Snow 303-235-2823 msnow@ci.wheatridge.co.us Wheat Ridge Connections is produced and published quarterly by the Wheat Ridge City Manager’s Office and mailed as a source of news and information to all residences and businesses in the City of Wheat Ridge. Comments on the newsletter are welcome.
the Wheat Ridge City Clerk’s Office for more information, at 303-235-2816.
Please contact: City of Wheat Ridge Attn: Heather Geyer, Assistant to the City Manager/PIO 7500 W. 29th Avenue | Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-235-2826 | hgeyer@ci.wheatridge.co.us
4
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE DIRECTORS
Randy Young City Manager 303-235-2819
WRPD
NOTES
Residents should take precautions to protect themselves against spring thieves
Travelers usually drive pickup trucks with out-of-state license plates. They may also be pulling work equipment on a trailer behind the truck. These Travelers may look like legitimate contractors but they are not. It can be difficult for Law Enforcement to investigate these crimes because, in most cases, the victim does not even realize they have been scammed until the thief is long gone. – Continued on page 5 HELPFUL TIPS FOR CITIZENS: • Be very leery of anyone who just shows up at your door and tells you “they were just driving in your neighborhood” and they have noticed a serious problem, defect or damage that needs to fixed right a way. • Never let anyone in your house you do not know. • Never pay for work that has not been completed to your satisfaction. • Never sign your name to a contract without first checking the company out. If the company is reputable, they will not mind if you ask for references. • Never feel pressured to make a quick decision, and/or to sign anything. • Have the company leave contact information with you. Then, before signing any contract, check with family, friends, neighbors, the Better Business Bureau or the police if you have any questions or are unsure of the company. • If you identify repair needs on your property, take your time and shop around. • Protect yourself from identity theft. Never give an unknown person personal information such as: • Name • Date of Birth • Credit Card Information • Checking or Savings Account Numbers • Your Social Security Numbers
Remember, if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Patrick Goff Deputy City Manager 303-235-2819
Ken Johnstone Community Development Director 303-235-2846
It is that time of year again when a group of thieves, commonly known as “Travelers,” visit communities like Wheat Ridge with the primary purpose of taking advantage of citizens by scamming them on various types of home repairs including but not limited to: • Painting • Roofing • Asphalt/Concrete Work • Tree Trimming • Siding Unfortunately, seniors are most often the victims of these thieves and con artists. The Travelers will typically drive through neighborhoods looking for seniors that may be working in their yards or sitting outside their home. Once the victim/ home-owner is discovered, the Traveler will approach the victim and identify “problems” with the home and/or driveway and pressure the victim into believing repair work is a critical need and that must be tended to right away. In many cases, the recommended repairs are not needed at all. The Traveler will require payment upfront and then, generally, one of two scenarios will occur; they never return to start the job, or they start the job but never return to finish it. Because these people are scam artists and not legitimate workers, they do more damage then good. The homeowner is then left with repairs and clean up needs that are far more extensive and expensive then the original repairs ever were, if necessary.
Joyce Manwaring Parks & Recreation Director 303-231-1307
Tim Paranto Public Works Director 303-235-2861
Dan Brennan Chief of Police 303-235-2913
– Continued from page 4 Do not be afraid or embarrassed to call the Police if you feel you may be a victim of a scam. Early intervention/investigation is critical in these cases. It can help catch the thief and prevent others from becoming victims.
– Continued from page 1 recommendations,” said Mayor DiTullio.
5
Things citizens said they would like to improve include: • Development of a “downtown” or City center. • Improvements to Kipling corridor such as pedestrian facilities and redeveloped land uses. • Improvements to Wadsworth Boulevard such as revitalized commercial businesses, streetscaping and better pedestrian/bicycle amenities. • Cleaning up certain neighborhoods where properties are not maintained.*
Please see insert in this issue of Connections for additional information.
Residents should immediately contact the Wheat Ridge Police Department at 303-237-2220 should they believe to have fallen victim to a Traveler’s scam or have any questions.
Citizens encouraged to donate old cell phones
The first public meeting focused on identifying what participants would like to preserve about Wheat Ridge and what they would like to see change or improve within the community. “There was good discussion and a lot of ideas about what Wheat Ridge should be like in the future—the project is off to a great start!” said Sally Payne, Senior Planner. Based on feedback from the first public meeting, Wheat Ridge citizens said they would like to preserve the following community locations: • Clear Creek Trail/Wheat Ridge Greenbelt. • Wheat Ridge Recreation Center. • Anderson Park complex. • 38th Avenue with local businesses.*
Wheat Ridge Police partner with nonprofits to provide free emergency cell phones to victims of crime
The Wheat Ridge Police Department has partnered with Secure-The-Call, a nonprofit organization which accepts donations of old, no longer used cellular phones. These phones are cleaned, cleared of all personal information and converted into 911 emergency phones. These phones are then distributed, free of charge, to local agencies in need of 911 emergency phones. Local agencies give the 911 emergency phones they receive to Victims Outreach Information (VOI), a nonprofit organization in Jefferson County which helps victims of crime. To date, VOI has provided ten 911 emergency phones to victims of crime in Jefferson County. For more information about Secure-The-Call, visit www.securethecall.org. If you would like to donate an old cellular phone, please bring the cellular phone and its battery, along with any accessories, to the Wheat Ridge Police Department, located at 7500 W. 29th Ave. and drop it in the collection barrel in the Police Department lobby area. All donations are tax deductible and a tax deductible form can be found on the Secure-The-Call Website. For questions or additional information, please contact Officer Kyle Eversole at 303-235-2948 or E-mail keversole@ci.wheatridge.co.us.
*Please note this information is intended only to provide a summary of some of the input received from citizens at the first Comprehensive Plan public meeting in order to illustrate the topics and issues being discussed in the development of the Plan.
How to Stay Involved in the Envision Wheat Ridge Comprehensive Plan Process
• Visit the Envision Wheat Ridge project Website regularly at www.EnvisionWheatRidge.com for project updates and information. • Participate in surveys posted on the Envision Wheat Ridge Website to provide input. Encourage your neighbors to participate as well. • Attend public meetings for the project. The next public meeting will be March 25, 2009 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center located at 4005 Kipling St. At this meeting, citizens will be involved in helping to create a community vision. Using existing documents and input from the meeting, a vision will be developed identifying areas of change and areas of stability in the community. • For questions or information about the project, please contact Sally Payne, Senior Planner in Community Development at 303-235-2852 or E-mail spayne@ci.wheatridge.co.us. • Talk with your City Council members about issues important to you. See page 3 for City Council contact information. To find out what Council District you live in, visit the City Website or call City Hall at 303-234-5900. • If you are a Comcast Cable subscriber, look for the Comprehensive Plan project update on the March edition of “Wheat Ridge Top of the Hour.”
6
Have you renewed your dog(s) license yet?
Mandatory dog licensing in Jefferson County required by law and fully enforced in Wheat Ridge
Westminster. In partnership, Jeffco municipal animal control agencies want to help promote the education of responsible pet owners and ask for full compliance in a timely manner.
Some of the benefits of licensing include: • Licensing provides benefits that serve the community as a whole by reducing the number of unwanted dogs.
processed. Information gained helps reduce unnecessary impoundment of animals without proper owner identification. The Wheat Ridge Community Services Team will continue to issue warnings or court summons for all non-licensed resident dog owners who fail to provide immediate proof of valid license. Do the best for your pet by learning about licensing through contacting the following resources for a registration form: • Visit http://animalcontrol.jeffco.us to print a form. • Contact the Wheat Ridge Community Services Team at 303-235-2926. • Visit the Table Mountain Animal Center at 4105 Youngfield Service Road in Golden, Colo. • Or contact your local veterinarian. The responsibility for lawful compliance falls upon the owners.
• Encouragement to spay and neuter resident dogs can provide the owner a true sense of responsibility.
He would do anything for you!
Dog licensing is critically important to the health, safety and welfare of resident dogs in Wheat Ridge. Licensing not only provides accurate registration of all resident dogs, but also assists local and county officials on dog ownership responsibility. The Wheat Ridge Community Services Team continues to fully enforce the Jefferson County dog license requirement. All resident dog owners are asked to both initially register and renew your dog’s license with Jefferson County. The licensing requirement adopted in 2007 is effective in the cities of Arvada, Golden, Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and
• License compliance requires a valid and proper rabies vaccination status. This, in turn, promotes a regular medical maintenance history to ensure the health and welfare of your pet. • To provide better service to our compliant dog owners, the county licensing program also protects you and your animals by tracking dangerous dogs and habitual offenders of animal laws. • Animal control agencies in Jefferson County can expedite the return of your lost dog through valuable and accurate dog owner information
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Wheat Ridge Library – March-June 2009 Events
5475 W. 32nd Ave., Wheat Ridge, Colo., 303-235-5275, Visit us on the web at: www.jefferson.lib.co.us
Ongoing programs: Story Times
Every Tuesday from March 3 to April 28 (no story times in May) 11 a.m. Baby Time for ages up to 2 years 11:30 a.m. Story Time for all ages
Summer Reading Club
Sign up for our children, teen or adult Summer Reading Club starting in June! Also, watch for news on many special programs in June and July for children and teens. Schedules are available at the library starting in mid-May.
Art Wall Displays
March – Art work featured from the students of Saint Peter and Paul School April – Art work featured from the students of Stevens Elementary School May – Wheat Ridge Art League
Thursday Morning Book Group - 9 a.m.
April 16 “Death Comes For the Archbishop” by Willa Cather May 21 “The Principled Politician: The Ralph Carr Story” by Adam Schrager June 18 “The Thin Man” by Dashiell Hammett
Computer Classes
Hands-on basic computer skills classes. Space is limited – Registration is required. Basic Computer Skills 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 29 For those new to computers.
Special Events: A Cowboy’s Tail
4 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 Join us for this one-man play with fun cowboy stories and poetry. Children of all ages welcome. Free tickets required and are available at the library.
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WHEAT RIDGE SENIOR/COMMUNITY CENTER HOSTS
WII CELEBRATION
Video games are not just for a younger crowd anymore! In November 2006, Nintendo introduced the Wii and has been engaging people of all ages ever since. The Wii is the first video game to incorporate player movement into on-screen actions and has proven to be a great fitness tool for the over 50 crowd. The Wii system allows you to use remote controllers, much like TV remotes, to play realistic sports, games and fitness activities. The characters on-screen actually move with each player, bending, turning and swinging as if they were playing the sport or game. Players can create their own personalized on-screen character called a “Mii.” “The novelty of Wii is that it provides both physical and cognitive activities that are fun and engaging,” said Karen Ruiz, Recreation Supervisor for the Wheat Ride Senior/Community Center. Nintendo Wii supports the Senior/Community Center’s goals of promoting overall wellness, fitness and social opportunities for adults ages 50 and older. The Wii offers an opportunity for older adults, regardless of their physical abilities, to engage in friendly, interactive competition, generating great enthusiasm and promoting activity. Participants are guaranteed to love the Wii sports games that allow you to smash a tennis ball, roll a bowling ball and hit the pins, knock out your boxing partner, drive a golf ball or swing a bat for a home run. Other Wii games available at the Senior/Community Center include billiards, darts, table hockey, table tennis, hoop shooting and more! The Center also has Wii Fit which uses a sensory board to put your balance, strength and flexibility to the test with more than 40 fun fitness activities such as yoga, snowboarding and aerobics. You can also give your brain a workout using the Big Brain Academy as you race to complete brain-tastic activities. On Friday, March 20 the Wheat Ridge Senior/ Community Center celebrated its new Wii system with volunteers demonstrating the games and refreshments compliments of Home Instead Senior Care. Visit the Wheat Ridge Senior/Community Center today and check out the Wii for yourself!
STAY CONNECTED
FasTracks Gold Line Updates
Stay connected and visit www.RTD-FasTracks.com and click on “Gold Line” for all the latest information and events for the FasTracks Gold Line!
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HOMES FOR SALE
by Wheat Ridge 2020
Do you know someone looking for a townhome or single-family home? Refer them to the beautiful homes renovated by Wheat Ridge 2020! 6855 W. 48th Ave. $225,000 – UNDER CONTRACT 3 bedroom, 2 bath with garage and covered patio, master bedroom and bathroom and central air conditioning. Contact Kerry Bishop or Jackie Hollenbeck at 303-716-3645.
Wheat Ridge 2020 (WR2020) has completed BEFORE AFTER its first new construction project at 6770 Photos by Scott Dressel-Martin 32nd & Pierce - beautiful new modern duplex. and 6772 W. 32nd Ave. WR2020 purchased and demolished an asbestos-filled small ranch and used the space 4753 Dover St. $209,900 – 3 bedroom, 2 bath with attached garage, new cabinetry, stainless steel appliances to construct a beautiful new modern duplex. Each unit is and air conditioning. Contact Jack Wlezen at 303-378-9545. 1,400 square feet and has three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a main-floor great room and a double-car garage with storage room. The property also features a master suite 3880 Oak St. $189,000 – UNDER CONTRACT 2 bedroom, 1 bath with new maple cabinets and stainless with walk-in closet and master bathroom, maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances, lots of windows, large crawl space steel appliances. Contact Jack Wlezen at 303-378-9545. and is a great location. Each unit sells for $259,000. Contact Somerset Townhomes starting at $152,500 with Wheat Ridge 2020 at 720-259-1030 if you are interested. hardwood and tile floors, granite countertops, solid maple cabinets, stainless steel appliances, new furnace and air Single family homes for sale: conditioning, new hot water heater and new bath with 6643 W. 32nd Ave. $250,000 – 3 bedroom, 2 bath jetted tub. Contact Van Wedgwood at 303-420-5352 or featuring great living room and kitchen with maple cabinets visit www.somersettownhomes.com. and stainless steel appliances. Large master bedroom with French patio doors to backyard. Attached two-car View details on the homes Wheat Ridge 2020 has completed oversized garage with mudroom. Contact Jack Wlezen at at http://wheatridge2020.org/newdevelopments.php. 303-378-9545. 6265 W. 46th Place $229,000 – 3 bedroom with hardwood throughout. Two brand-new full and beautifully tiled bathrooms, stainless steel and granite kitchen, all new cabinetry and abundant counter space. New gutters, roof, windows and air conditioning. Two-car oversized detached garage, mudroom and large yard. Contact Loretta DiTirro Schwankl at 303-594-1520. Wheat Ridge 2020 has moved! The Wheat Ridge 2020 offices are now located on 38th Ave. at 3798 Marshall St, Suite 7. The Wheat Ridge 2020 office phone number remains 720-259-1030.
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Ryan Stachelski, Economic Development Specialist
City launches new online business directory
The City’s new online business directory is up and running! This business directory has a listing for all businesses within the City of Wheat Ridge and can be found on the City’s Website under the Community, Business or Services tabs. You can also access the business directory by going to the Economic Development page of the Website. Visit www.ci.wheatridge.co.us to start utilizing this amazing tool and help your business grow and prosper! If you are a business in Wheat Ridge and you are not listed, please contact Ryan Stachelski, Economic Development Specialist at 303-235-2806 or E-mail rstachelski@ci.wheatridge.co.us. Wheat Ridge businesses can place a FREE advertisement on the business directory!
your business to the community, get leads and make great connections. Businesses interested in being a vendor should call Lisa Faust, Event Coordinator at 303-521-1536 or E-mail lisa@anewwaytolife.com. Each booth rental is $30 for EWR and ABA members and $40 for non-members if you register by April 3. Space is limited so register today!
Wheat Ridge business grand openings
Let the City of Wheat Ridge help you celebrate your grand opening or celebrate a revitalization project. New and existing businesses are welcome to request a ribbon cutting with your elected officials. Interested businesses should call Ryan Stachelski at 303-235-2806.
Notable business notes achievement in excellence
The City of Wheat Ridge would like to congratulate John Medved for his nomination for the 2009 Time magazine Dealer of the Year Award. Mr. Medved was recognized at the 92nd annual National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Exposition held in New Orleans earlier this year. Please join the City of Wheat Ridge in congratulating Mr. Medved for this prestigious recognition. If your business or a business you know has received a special recognition, please feel free to E-mail Ryan Stachelski at rstachelski@ci.wheatridge.co.us. All submissions are subject to review by the City of Wheat Ridge and published at the discretion of the City.
Spring Green Business Showcase
The Economic Development Division is pleased to partner with Enterprise Wheat Ridge (EWR) and the Applewood Business Association (ABA) to bring you the Wheat Ridge Spring Green Business Showcase. This event is FREE and open to the public. The event will be Tuesday, April 28, 2009 from 7:30 – 10 a.m. at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center located at 4005 Kipling St. Come and check out the amazing businesses in the Wheat Ridge community. Interested in Showcasing Your Business? Give your business a boost this spring by being a vendor at the Wheat Ridge Spring Green Business Showcase. Experts say businesses who market during a weak economy will have a jump over those who cut back on their marketing efforts. Highlight
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FREQUENTL ASKED QUESTIONS Y
On Stormwater Runoff
Q: What are some benefits
of the City’s stormwater program?
Q: What is stormwater
runoff?
A: Stormwater runoff is water from
rain and melted snow that cannot be absorbed by the soil and instead washes off the land surface and can makes its way into our stormsewer systems.
A: Here are a few of the many
benefits: • Erosion and Sediment Control Reduces the volume of stormwater runoff from a site, keeping the soil on the land and out of the storm sewers, streets and waterbodies. • Water Quality Protection Prevents runoff carrying pollutants from washing off land. This protects drinking water, recreation and wildlife habitat. • Infrastructure Protection Stormwater management practices keep sediment out of ditches, culverts and waterways, reducing the cost for maintenance and replacement of facilities. • Lower Flood Insurance Premiums Under the Community Rating System (CRS) of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), a community that implements an approved stormwater management program can achieve credit. This can reduce flood insurance premiums for residents.
• Flood Protection Proper stormwater management practices retain runoff on the site and release it slowly, preventing flood damage on and off site. For more information about the City of Wheat Ridge Stormwater Management Program, please contact Bill LaRow, Stormwater Coordinator at 303-235-2871 or E-mail blarow@ci.wheatridge.co.us. Residents can also find useful information about the stormwater management on the City Website at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us.
Q: Why is untreated
stormwater runoff a problem? Is the water not treated at a water treatment facility?
A: No, stormwater is not treated
at all! The stormsewer system acts as a conduit for the direct release of the runoff to a creek.
Q: How does stormwater
runoff become polluted?
A: As stormwater moves across the
land and towards streams, rivers and lakes, it can be contaminated with a number of substances such as: • Sediment – From construction sites and eroded stream banks. • Organic Materials – Such as leaves and grass clippings. • Oil and Gasoline – From automobiles and storage tanks. • Nutrients – Such as phosphates and nitrates from fertilizers. • Pesticides – From lawns, gardens and golf courses. • Pathogens – Such as bacteria and viruses from failing septic systems and pet waste.
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DID YOU
KNOW…?
Sales Tax: Then and Now
Sales taxes have long been important to funding governmental services. The ancient Egyptians imposed a sales tax on cooking oil that everyone was expected to pay and the Romans were infamous for imposing general sales taxes on the sale of everything to anyone outside Rome proper. Both empires garnered substantial revenues to support massive public works, expansion and public welfare in times of famine. In the United States, sales taxes began as a mercantile license tax in Pennsylvania in 1821. These taxes evolved into widespread commodities taxes during the Civil War and later became the tax on retail sales now known with the passing of the first general sales tax in Kentucky in 1930. There are five states that do not impose a general sales tax, although select counties, cities and districts within some of them do. These include Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon. States with no general sales tax tend to impose a higher annual tax on real and personal property ownership. Sales tax is an excise tax, which is a tax on an event such as a retail sale. In the City of Wheat Ridge, the total sales tax is 7.6 percent. Three percent is City-imposed to support the services Wheat Ridge provides, while the Colorado rate is 2.9 percent, special districts total 1.2 percent and the Jefferson County open space tax is a half percent. Currently, the Wheat Ridge total rate is comparable to the rates of Golden and Lakewood and lower than those of Denver and Arvada. As a home-rule City, Wheat Ridge administers, collects and audits our own sales tax of about $15 million annually. This amounts to half the revenues used by the City in providing high quality services to citizens and visitors alike. For more information about sales tax in Wheat Ridge, please feel free to contact Kathy Franklin, Sales Tax Auditor at 303-235-2825 or E-mail kfranklin@ci.wheatridge.co.us.
New Lockbox Program to Aid Seniors
The Wheat Ridge Police Department is now offering a Lockbox Program. The Lockbox Program will provide a realtorstyle key lockbox to participating senior citizens in the City of Wheat Ridge. The purpose of the Lockbox Program is to allow emergency responders access to the homes of senior citizens in the event of a medical, fire or police emergency. This will reduce damage to property and therefore financial hardship to the senior citizens in our community. This lockbox will only be accessed by emergency personnel, if extreme circumstances exist. The lockboxes are funded in part by a grant from Wal-Mart. If you are interested in joining the Lockbox Program, please contact Officer Kyle Eversole at 303-235-2948 or E-mail keversole@ci.wheatridge.co.us.
Wheat Ridge Channel 8 Schedule
Channel 8 is a local government access channel available only to Comcast Cable subscribers. Tune into Wheat Ridge Channel 8, seven days a week, 24 hours a day. To view the most current Channel 8 schedule and programming listings, visit the City Website at www.ci.wheatridge.co.us to view a copy of the schedule. For questions or comments, please contact Heather Geyer, Assistant to the City Manager/Public Information Officer, at 303-235-2826 or E-mail hgeyer@ci.wheatridge.co.us
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Seniors’ Resource Center Transportation Services
Seniors’ Resource Center (SRC) Transportation Services provides accessible and affordable door-to-door transportation to older adults and persons with mobility impairments. Riders can travel to medical/dental appointments, grocery shopping, meals sites and community-based care programs. SRC Transportation ensures individual independence, and provides mobility for self-sufficiency and the opportunity to participate fully in the life of the community. For more information or to schedule a ride, please call 303-235-6972/6974.
Seniors’ Resource Center
Circulator Shuttle
The “Senior Circulator” local shuttle is available for Wheat Ridge residents ages 60 years or better. Residents from Cambridge Park, Vintage Place Apartments and Highland West/South Apartments have the option to ride to the Applewood Village Shopping Center to do errands in the City. Riders are picked up each week at 11 a.m. from the locations shown below on the specified day: • Monday, Cambridge Park 10241 W. 38th Avenue • Tuesday Vintage Place Apartments 10700 W. 38th Avenue • Thursday Highland West/South Apartments, 6360 W. 38th Avenue The return trip on the “Senior Circulator” leaves promptly at 1 p.m. from the Applewood Village Shopping Center, located at 3400 Youngfield Street. The shuttle operates on a fixed schedule; therefore, drivers cannot wait for riders. The “Senior Circulator” trips are free and drivers will not accept tips. Donations to help fund the program may be made by contacting the Seniors’ Resource Center. For more information about the new “Senior Circulator” shuttle program, please contact the Seniors’ Resource Center at 303-238-8151. Please feel free to contact Janice Smothers, Assistant to the Mayor, at 303-235-2815 or E-mail jsmothers@ci.wheatridge.co.us. If you would like additional information or would like to provide input on the program.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I schedule a ride? To schedule a ride, call 303-235-6972 or 6974, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please have the following information ready when you call: • Name of rider • Date of appointment • Time of appointment How much does a ride cost? Most rides are free. We receive funding from many generous sources, but still need your and your family’s financial help. Call 303-235-6972/6974 to find out how much a trip will cost. When should I call in to reserve a ride? As soon as you know when you will need a ride, call 303-235-6972/6974 to make a reservation. At least two working days advance notice is strongly recommended, and you may contact us up to two weeks ahead of your ride. How do I cancel a ride? Please call 303-235-6999 to cancel a ride. It is very important to cancel your ride if you no longer need it. This can open up space for others who are waiting for our services. Service animals are accepted on vehicles.
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LARGE ITEM PICK UP PROGRAM
Time to get a large item ready for pick up 2009 CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE LARGE ITEM PICK UP PROGRAM
Residents of the City of Wheat Ridge (not including businesses or apartment complexes) are eligible to participate in the 2009 Large Item Pick up Program scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2009 and Saturday, May 23, 2009. What is the large item pick up program? • The first 500 City of Wheat Ridge residences that register for the program will be eligible to have ONE large bulky household item picked up (see item examples below) without extra payment. • Up to 250 residences will have a pick up scheduled on Saturday, May 16, 2009. • Up to 250 residences will have a pick up scheduled on Saturday, May 23, 2009. How do I register for the large item pick up program? • Eligible residents can register for the large item pick up program by calling 303-205-7600. • Registrations will be taken Monday through Friday only, beginning Monday, April 6, 2009 through Friday, May 8, 2009, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Verification of Wheat Ridge residency and preapproval of the type of item to be picked up will be required at the time of registration. • Remember, only the first 500 eligible registrants will be confirmed for large item pick up. What large items are eligible for pick up? • Only one, pre-approved large item will be picked up per household. Examples of one large item that is eligible for pick up are: one piece of furniture, a bed including mattress, a box spring & frame, a stove, an oven, a dishwasher, a washing machine, a dryer, a sink, a toilet, a bathtub, a door, a window, a water heater, a gas grill (no propane bottle), a swing set (disassembled) or a bicycle. • Pick up hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the dates specified above. There is no schedule of when • • pick ups will be made on any particular street; therefore, your large item must be at the curb by 7 a.m. on the pick up date for which you have registered. Do not place your large pick up item with refuse to be collected by your regular collection service. Pick ups will be made from private streets only if they are wider than 20 feet and loop to a public street, connect to a public street at both ends or end with a standard size cul-de-sac. Trash containers will not be emptied. Trash bags and additional large items will not be picked up. A large item will not be picked up if two workers cannot safely lift it into the collection truck. A wood stove, for example, will not be picked up due to its weight.
• •
What large items are not eligible for pick up? • Refrigerator, freezer or any item with Freon, microwave oven, wood stove. • Television, computer monitor and/or computer. • Garbage bags full of trash or loose debris that will ADDITIONAL LARGE fit into a garbage bag or ITEMS FOR PICK UP trashcan. • Trees, branches, shrubs or Residents can have mixed branches and trash. additional large • Household chemicals and items picked up paint, fuel tanks or cans, by contacting EDS, batteries, propane bottles Waste Solutions, Inc. or closed drums. at 303-278-8600. • Gravel, asphalt, pipe (any Arrangements must type or size), rock, sod, earth, concrete, brick, be made no later than block, pavers or roofing one (1) week prior to materials. your scheduled large • Tires. item pick up date to • Engine blocks, car parts determine costs and or any small gas engine availability of this equipment. service. The City of • Materials or debris from a Wheat Ridge does private contractor’s work. not pay for additional large item pick up.
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Recycling Resources
(CALL FOR HOURS, LOCATIONS AND FEES) Aerosol Cans Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Adhesives Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Aluminum, Aluminum Cans Tri-R Recycling, 303-399-6351 Arvada Recycling, 303-423-4189 Antifreeze Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Checker Auto Parts, See Yellow Pages Pep Boys, See Yellow Pages Appliances (refrigerator, freezer) Unwanted Appliances, 303-430-7142 Iliff’s Appliance Removal Service, 303-320-0258 Anything Goes, 303-947-7100 Asphalt Recycled Materials, 303-431-3701 Automobiles J & B Auto, 303-295-2442 Automotive Products Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Action Recycling Center, 303-424-1600 Batteries (alkaline, car) Arvada Recycling, 303-423-4189 Rocky Mtn. Battery Service, 303-423-7142 Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Re-Co Cycle, 303-893-9324 Books Tri-R Recycling, 303-399-6351 Brass Action Recycling, 303-424-1600 Building Materials Bud’s Warehouse, 303-296-3990 Cardboard Weyerhauser Company, 303-297-2312 Tri-R Recycling, 303-399-6351 Carpets & Pads Waste Management, 303-296-4124 Chemicals, Cleaners & Waxes Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Clothing ARC Thriftstores, See Yellow Pages Computers, Printers Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Action Recycling Center, 303-424-1600 Executive Recycling, 303-791-0808 Concrete Recycled Materials, 303-431-3701 Drums/Barrels Western Container, 303-623-6230 Eyewear Lions Clubs of Westwood, 303-936-9842 Flammables Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Fluorescent Lights Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Freon Rocky Mtn. Reclamation, 303-866-1226 Household Hazardous Waste Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Ink Jet Cartridges Imaging Resolutions, 303-940-5511 Magazines/Catalogs Green Mountain Recycling, 303-442-7535 Mercury Colorado Health Department, 303-692-3467 Microwave Ovens Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Motor Oil Auto Zone, 303-456-0811 Pep Boys, 303-420-7444 City of Wheat Ridge, 303-205-7600 Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Newspaper El Jebel Recycles, 303-455-3470 King Soopers Stores, See Yellow Pages Office Paper Green Mountain Recycling, 303-442-7535 Oil Filters Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Tri-R Recycling, 303-399-6351 Paint Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Pallets FJ Pallet, 303-423-0291 Poison Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Propane Tanks Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Suburban Propane, 303-232-1273 Iliff’s Appliance, 303-320-0258 Scrap Metal Action Recycling, 303-424-1600 Small Gas Engine Equipment Action Recycling Center, 303-424-1600 Televisions Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Thermostats, Thermometers Rooney Road Recycling, 303-316-6262 Tires Big O Tires, 303-425-5545 Oxford Recycling, 303-781-5788 Yard Waste (branches, leaves, grass/sod) Rooney Road Recycling, 303-313-6262
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