Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.
If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.
E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org
98 comments:
Santa to visit Commerce City Recreation Center
COMMERCE CITY – Winter is quickly approaching which means the holiday season is just around the corner. And with the holiday season comes Santa Claus.
Join us at the Commerce City Recreation Center for cocoa with Santa. This is a fun-filled, festive morning that kids ages 2 to 92 will want not want to miss. Visit with Santa, enjoy snacks and hot cocoa, and make a holiday craft. And don’t miss out on a chance to find a treat in our ice fishing house!
Cocoa with Santa
10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6
Commerce City Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Drive
$5 resident; $8 nonresident (per person)All ages welcome, registration with parent required.
For more information, call (303) 289-3659 or call (303) 289-3789 to register. Sign up soon as space to visit with Santa are limited.
City council will have their next study session at Turnberry Elem.
Monday Dec 8th @ 6:30pm.
Here is a chance to meet your city council, mayor and city staff.
This is a great opportunity to become involved!!
Christmas Donations Needed
Commerce City Citizens for Recycling is requesting donations of new or gently used Christmas tree ornaments and lights. At this time we need enough ornaments to help another 30 families, please help! These decorations will be divided, boxed and given to families in need of decorations for their holiday tree. Please drop your boxed items off at Community Enterprise, 7290 Magnolia Street, in the front lobby anytime. Donations will be accepted until December 10th. If you are in need of further information, please call Beverly Benzel @ 303.287.2266.
Has anyone heard any news on retail developement @ 104th & Tower? Since gas prices have gone down I can afford to eat out again (yeah!). I'll be nice if we get some nice restaurants in the area. Is it true that the new middle school will host a boys and girls club? Does anyone know the time tables for the new businesses coming to 104th & Chambers? I've been seeing signs but would be nice to know what's happening.
Hope I don't annoy with all of my questions but I've found this to be the best place to get current information. Am I the only person who feels like thing are kept secret?
Inquisitive Neighbor
To my Inquisitive Neighbor,
Lots of GREAT Questions! I know that Dr. Blunck (27J Superintendent) told council member Jim Benson that he would be open to the idea of a boys and girls club at the new Ortho Stewart middle school. The Boys and Girls Club have not been included in on this yet, it is still very much in the beginning stages.
As far as Development, the city just hired a WONDERFUL person, Brittany Morris. I personal think that she really is the total package! I sure that the 104th and tower areas will be one of her focus areas.
As soon as I know anything concrete I will post ASAP.
The Red Barn Rebel
Could the Gateway take a picture of the art in the lobby at city hall so we can all see it?
Thanks
to Inquisitive Neighbor,
Look for a new chinese/japanese type restaurant near 104th and Tower area, just a rumor, but heard it from reliable source.
We should see Walgreens and Walmart eventually, I think everything is on hold just the time being.
Tim Dalton
City Council approves balanced 2009 budget
COMMERCE CITY – The City Council on Monday approved a balanced budget for 2009 that maintains or increases service levels to residents without adding city staff or drawing from cash reserves.
After months of review and discussion from elected officials, city staff and members of the public, the council voted to adopt the 2009 budget of almost $53 million. Included in the budget is curbside recycling, an addition to the city-funded refuse collection contract.
Not included in the budget is funding for 17.5 vacant staff positions. The positions were all previously authorized, but won’t be filled; five of the posts have been eliminated. No new positions are budgeted for 2009, and no layoffs will be made to current staff levels.
“City Council and staff have worked hard to balance this budget while ensuring city service needs are met, and I believe we have accomplished our goals,” said Commerce City Mayor Paul Natale.
Following use of $2.2 million in reserves to balance the 2008 budget, the city was faced with a projected shortfall of another $2 million for 2009. Rather than dipping into reserves again, city staff identified a number of cost savings strategies to reduce the shortfall.
“For 2009, we were able to balance the budget because staff in each department worked diligently to reduce their expenditures and, put simply, ‘do more with less,’ ” said City Manager Jerry Flannery.
City Council and staff met in September to discuss future projects, projected revenues and how to reconcile the budget, still $550,000 short. They agreed on additional budget recommendations to make up the difference and balance the budget without using reserves.
The shortfalls have come as the economy worsens and new construction slows. Commerce City had become dependent on “one-time” revenues from construction during the rapid growth of the late ’90s and early 2000s.
The city has seen a steep decline in building permits in the past few years. In 2004 the city issued 1,800 permits; in 2008 and 2009, the city expects to issue about 300. For budgeting purposes, 125 housing permits equates to about $1 million in revenue that is used to fund city services.
I am a resident and a business owner here in Commerce City. I asked earlier if the area had any kind of a chamber of commerce or business club. I was told about the CCBPA and the Metro North Chamber.
I went to both the organizations websites and I have to say I was a little disappointed with the CCBPA site. It looks like they stopped updating it a while ago. It is important, I think, to have the website of your organization to be just as top notch as you can afford. It is your first impression to the world, not to mention, potential members and new business in the area.
I urge the CCBPA to work on their website, I would suggest to copy the format of the Denver metro chamber of commerce. www.denverchamber.org
However, I was very impressed with the City of Commerce City business page, http://www.commercecityed.com/
Just some positive creative criticism
S. J., Commerce City, Newlands
To SJ,
I respect your opinion and am so happy that you tried your best to keep it positive. I went to the Business and Professionals website and I can understand what you are talking about.
What the Business and Professionals need to take into consideration:
1. Board of Directors included: Greg Fabisiak- 303-288-2646 rlay@sacwsd.org, South Adams Water and Sanitation District (I don’t think this is accurate)
2. Meeting Notes need to be updated, last one is back from March of 2008
3. Under the member directory: Stephanie Salazar no longer works for the city, Dr. John Lange no longer works for d14.
4. Last news letter is September.
Just the things I found wrong at the first glance. I am sure they will get the message and have it updated in the very near future.
The Red Barn Rebel
Reba Drotar can try to spin this as much as she wants. The fact is that a lot of residents were angry that they have to be out by 3 p.m. on the day before Thanksgiving. Some even said they had nowhere go and will be homeless for the holiday.
My opinion, it was extremely BAD TIMING!
Just my thoughts,
Core Comments2008
According to the gatewaynews videos that are on the internet a Commerce City citizen asked the now seated city council to revisit the pit bull ban that is now in effect today in our city.
This citizen asked the council to revisit this back during the first week of August 2008.
How come we have not heard anything regarding this important issue on our city?
I urge the current city council of Commerce City to at least revisit this issue during one of their study sessions.
This BSL law was put into place by the prior city council and I would like to know if the current city council has the same opinions. It can not hurt to just let it be brought up in a study session.
And yes I am a legal pit bull owner and I would love to see the city act fairly and adopt a more strong vicious dog ordinance rather then this current unfair and inhumane current law that is on the books today.
Daisy BB.
Just want to say GREAT JOB Commerce City on the curb side recycling program you will be starting in Jan. of 2009.
What a good start on making a good name for yourselves.
S. Akins, Denver, CO
C3 Vision, Tonight's Meeting has been cancelled
Due to weather, tonight's meeting has been canceled. We will be rescheduling the Citizen Advisory Committee Meeting for a new date.
Please check the web site for the new meeting date, time and location as well as all the latest C3 Vision news.
http://www.cccvision.com/
City adds recycling and expands refuse coverage by 1,500 homes
COMMERCE CITY – Recycle conscious citizens will no longer have to store their recyclables long-term in their garage or trunk once curbside recycling is implemented on Jan. 1.
Under a new contract with Waste Management, city residents will have free trash pickup and recycling in 2009. The new contract includes nearly 1,500 more homes that were not previously part of the city’s refuse collection program.¬ Residents of apartment complexes and trailer parks are not included under the expanded program.
Recycling bins will be distributed to residents in four phases, beginning December 10. Included inside the recycling bins will be information on what to recycle and pickup schedules. The recycle program will begin in January, with pickup for recyclables every two weeks the same day as refuse collection.
“Our residents told us they wanted a recycling option and City Council is responding,” Mayor Paul Natale said. “The city’s best opportunity to obtain a favorable rate for recycling was to include it in the overall bid for refuse collection.”
Although the city is moving to curbside recycling it will retain its existing recycle drop off center at 7450 Highway 2. Recycling services have been added to the city’s trash pickup service in response to feedback from residents who want more earth-friendly options for refuse collection.
The additional recycling service will not be charged to residents next year; it will be paid for by the city, as directed by the City Council. While recycling is not mandatory, resident participation is strongly encouraged to ensure the city can maintain a cost-effective and responsible program long-term. City Council directed staff to monitor citizen utilization of the program in 2009 and evaluate the city’s ability to fully fund the program in 2010 and beyond as growth in the city occurs and costs increase.
With the new program, residents will need to separate recyclables from other household garbage. The recycle program itself, however, is “single stream,” meaning recyclable materials such as plastics #1-7, aluminum and or various types of paper may be placed in one bin for pickup.
Adding curbside recycling service is the latest in the city’s efforts to become more environmentally friendly. The city’s new Civic Center highlights other efforts. The center is built to silver LEED certification standards for a “green” building, and features savings in lighting, water and energy use.
FINE! I will recycle, But that does mean I have to like IT!!!
I will recycle if you build me a Kings. DEAL?!
Northon104th
Say what you will about the Clear View Motel situation, but the focus of the city that day was to find help and shelter for those poor residents. I respect your opinion about the bad timing, but bottom line, the city staff did not mean to hurt anyone, they were there to help and I applaud them.
F. Mac, commerce city resident
Santa to visit Commerce City Recreation Center
COMMERCE CITY – Winter is quickly approaching which means the holiday season is just around the corner. And with the holiday season comes Santa Claus. Join us at the Commerce City Recreation Center for cocoa with Santa. This is a fun-filled, festive morning that kids ages 2 to 92 will want not want to miss. Visit with Santa, enjoy snacks and hot cocoa, and make a holiday craft. And don’t miss out on a chance to find a treat in our ice fishing house! Cocoa with Santa. 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, Commerce City Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Drive, $5 resident; $8 nonresident (per person). All ages welcome, registration with parent required.
For more information, call (303) 289-3659 or call (303) 289-3789 to register. Sign up soon as space to visit with Santa are limited.
Wanted to express a BIG Thank you to the Gateway News for posting the children on the web. We were able to have relatives from out of town see our daughter.
**Turnberry Elem. hosts Monday night study session. Your chance to visit council meeting close to home (if you live north).
Meet your council, see them in action. Put faces to names.
starts @ 6:30pm.
I do not want to be negative, but I strongly disagree with City Council meeting in the Turnberry elementary school. We the tax payers have spent millions, or at least will be spending millions to build a big and beautiful city hall where all of the cities business should take place. It is ridiculous that the city council feels obligated to move the meeting to the newlands to appease the citizens.
Just how I strongly feel.
Core Comments
It has been reported to the Gateway News, CCBPA (Commerce City Business and Professionals) announces that 2008 Business of the year is Clara Corporation which is better known to you and me as McDonalds.
Person of the year of 2008 is Dr. John Lange.
Dustie, Gateway News
Dear Core Comments,
I drive to the council meetings regularly and find your attitude a little rude.
I pay a lot of tax dollars and try my best to be a good citizen of Commerce City.
Having ONE meeting scheduled in the northern range was not to appease the anyone in the "newlands". It was suggested by a council member to help encourage new citizens to meet their council.
Many of these people leave work late enough that to drive to the city hall and then back home, makes attending these meetings difficult.
If this had been listed as a "town hall" meeting I doubt it would have bothered you.
This council tries to be accessable, that is not a bad thing.
“Cracker Shells” to be used at the Buffalo Run Golf Course
During the winter month’s large population of geese tend to seek out open areas to feed; unfortunately one such gaggle of geese has taken residency at the Buffalo Run Golf Course. Geese of this magnitude can easily destroy this championship course. So in an effort to stop further damage to the turf/grass at Buffalo Run Golf Course, the city will be setting off ‘‘cracker shells’’ to relocate the geese population.
The shells make a very loud noise and are designed to scare the geese from the area and not harm them. The shells will be set off randomly and as infrequently as possible. The permit to set off “cracker shells” is valid between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. starting Friday, December 12, 2008 to Monday March 10, 2008.
If you have any questions or concerns, call Paul Hebinck at (303) 289-1500 or Police Lt. Chuck Saunier at (303) 289-3792.
Off Duty Commerce City Sergeant Injured In Early Morning Accident
Officer responded to a roll over accident at 12:41 a.m. on Sunday, December 12, 2008 in the 7400 block of Quebec Parkway. Officers arriving on scene found it was an off duty officer from the Commerce City Police Department, Sergeant Joe Sandoval. Officers believed the accident to be involving alcohol and since it involved an officer from the Commerce City Police Department, Colorado State Patrol was called into investigate the accident. Colorado State Patrol has informed the Commerce City Police Department they believe alcohol is a factor but no charges have been filed as yet.
Sergeant Sandoval was transported to Denver General Health and is still there listed in stable condition.
GOV. RITTER STATEMENT ON ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
Gov. Bill Ritter issued the following statement today responding to economist Richard Wobbekind’s 2009 forecast for Colorado :
“Colorado obviously is not immune to the global economic crisis. People are losing their jobs, families are struggling to keep food on the table and businesses are doing their best to stay afloat.
“Fortunately, Colorado remains in better shape than many other states thanks to our diverse economy, our well-educated workforce and strong sectors like energy and aerospace. But we must be even more aggressive in our pursuit of business-development, investment and job-creation opportunities.
“We must continue to play to our strengths and stay focused on 21st-century, knowledge-based growth sectors like the New Energy Economy, biosciences, technology and aerospace – and other Colorado mainstays like tourism -- to help get Colorado’s economy moving again.”
Gov. Ritter is consulting regularly with economic and industry leaders, and he has initiated a number of steps to address the economic crisis:
· Advising and working with President-elect Obama and his transition team on the plan to make economic recovery and stimulus investments in transportation and energy infrastructure projects. Colorado has more than 160 highway, bridge, transit and airport projects, worth more than $1.4 billion, that would be “shovel-ready” within 180 days. For every $1 billion in transportation construction spending, nearly 40,000 jobs are created or preserved, according to industry estimates. The state also has natural-gas pipeline and numerous renewable-energy projects, including building transmission lines, that could be jump-started by a federal stimulus package.
· Launching a series of statewide small business finance forums starting this week in Pueblo . The “Surviving Tough Times: Counseling, Tools and Resources for Small Business” forums will give small businesses direct access to resources and information specifically designed to help them get through the downturn.
· Embarking on economic-development missions to Spain , Japan and China this year to promote Colorado ’s New Energy Economy, bioscience and air travel sectors.
· Proposing a $12 million job creation, job training and business-assistance legislative package.
· Beefing up efforts to connect job-seekers with employment opportunities through job fairs, open houses at the state’s 60 workforce development centers and the www.connectingcolorado.org website. Thousands of Coloradans took part in the statewide Keep Colorado Working Day hiring events and open houses on Nov. 20.
I think we all need some clarification about the off duty officer involved in the "possible" alcohol accident.
Was it the officer drinking or was it someone else that was also involved in the accident?
Core Comments
Congratulations to Mayor Natale becoming vice chair for the International Council of the NLC. He has done so much to shed a positive light onto our city. I'm getting "the look" less often when I tell people I live in Commerce City.
As far as I know, the off duty officer was by himself. I feel sorry for him but on the other hand, this is a very bad situation.
104th Ave we can go 45 MPH!!!
Right ONNNNN!!!
Everyone still drive safely!
After all of the history we have in Commerce City with Drinking and Driving, this really is a sad situation. UNREAL!
my2sense
I want to very much tell Dr. John Lange Congratulations on your award as “Person of the Year 2008” from the Commerce City Business and Professionals.
I don’t know anyone else who deserves this more then you. You are truly the perfect recipient.
It was a damn sad day when the BOE let you go and you will be missed greatly!
We all know that you will be okay. Too bad I can’t say the same for District #14.
Tonka T.
Is Exempla and Kaiser still coming to Commerce City?
I need to know if the new recycling program is something we have to do. I know that sounds bad but if I accidentally throw away a can in my trash, and the WM people hear my can clanging around in my garbage bag, are they not going to take my trash?
This is a true concern in some parts of the country. If they do hear metal in your trash, they will not take your trash, until you recycle properly.
Selma B.
Commerce City Police Department
Weekly Police Blotter
November 24, 2008 to December 7, 2008
November 26, 2008
13CN08009672 Auto Theft
Officers responded to 6840 Jasmine St on an auto theft. It was reported that a 1999 Toyota Corolla was stolen from this location which was left unattended warming up. While officers were responding to the residence the owner called back and reported his stolen car just drove by his residence, and it was being followed by a red Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Officers locate the Mitsubishi Eclipse going west on E.71st Avenue. When officers cleared the Eclipse it found to be stolen out of Thornton PD. When officers attempted to stop the Eclipse the Eclipse refused to stop and took off, officers did not pursue the stolen vehicle. The Eclipse was later found abandoned at E.79th Place at Ladore Street.
Citizen assist
An off duty officer was driving in the 11500 block of Paris Street when he saw a Waste Management truck with a male lying on the ground. He stopped to assist and found Waste Management employee unconscious. The officer called for an ambulance and provided first aid until the ambulance arrived. The employee was transported to the hospital unknown condition.
November 29, 2008
13CN08009751 Trespassing:
Around 2:00 a.m. officers received a call to Kearney Middle School where it was reported people were on top of the roof. Officers surrounded the school and located two 16 year old juvenile males on the SW corner of the roof. The kids said they were not trying to break into the school but just hanging out smoking marijuana. No marijuana was located. Both juveniles cited and released to their parents.
December 1, 2008
08-9800: Felony Theft/ Trespass
At 0100 hours Denver Police advised the Commerce City Police they had contacted a male in possession of ten 42” and 47” inch flat screen televisions. The male confessed to stealing the televisions from Saia Motor Fright, 9860 Emporia St. An officer responded to the freight company and confirmed that several semi trailers parked on the property had the seals on the trailer doors broken. A company representative confirmed several flat screen televisions had been stolen from the trailers. Denver Police is handing the investigation and will be filing theft by receiving charges on the male.
City Council agenda
COMMERCE CITY – The following is a tentative agenda for the upcoming City Council regular meeting. This agenda is subject to change. For more information about posting locations, please contact the city clerk at (303) 289-3611, or visit www.c3gov.com and click on “Government” and then “Agendas and Minutes.”
6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15
Regular meeting
Civic Center-Council Chambers
Consent agenda
• Resolution 2008-57—Cancelling City Council meetings that fall on officially scheduled city holidays.
• Resolution 2008-58 — Posting locations for ordinances and public meetings.
• Ordinance 1749 — Consolidating the Parks and Recreation Capital Fund and the Information Technology Capital Fund into the Capital Expenditures Fund.
• Ordinance 1750 — Consolidating the Sales-and-Use-Tax Fund, the Parks and Recreation Fund and the Street and Bridge Fund into the General Fund.
• Ordinance 1751 — Consolidation of fund 202, State and Miscellaneous Grants, with fund 180, Police Grants.
• Ordinance 1752 — Consolidating of fund 717, Special Improvement District, and fund 719 Special Improvement District, into fund 700, Special Improvement District.
Ordinance on first reading
• Ordinance 1755 — Amending the 2009 budget of the City of Commerce City by recognition of the Suncor grant in the amount of $80,000 for support of the Derby Community Center and authorization of the expenditure thereof.
• Ordinance 1757 — Repealing section 2-68 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Commerce City regarding the requirement for filing an annual financial disclosure statement.
• Ordinance 1720 — Adopting by reference the Land Development Code and repealing sections 8-51 through 8-74, all of chapter 17 except article XV, chapters 4.5, 10, 22, and 24 in their entirety, and all of chapter 21 except for sections 21-34 and 21-36.
Executive session
• For the purpose of determining positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, developing strategy for negotiations, and/or instructing negotiators, under C.R.S. Section 24-6-402 (4) (e) regarding economic development.
• For the purpose of determining positions relative to matters that may be subject to negotiations, developing strategy for negotiations, and/or instructing negotiators, under C.R.S. Section 24-6-402 (4) (e) regarding the Master Development agreement with Kroenke Soccer Stadium, LLC, City of Commerce City Urban Renewal Authority and City of Commerce City.
Special meeting
Urban Renewal Authority (URA)
• Possible action of Mater Development agreement
Northern Infrastructure General Improvement District (GID) meeting
Ordinance on first reading
• Ordinance GID 143-08 — Board of directors of the City of Commerce City GID authorizing, approving and directing the execution of amendments to certain reimbursement agreements related to the district’s general obligation variable rate bond, series 2002, 2006, and 2008.
City adds recycling and expands refuse coverage by 1,500 homes
COMMERCE CITY – Recycle conscious citizens will no longer have to store their recyclables long-term in their garage or trunk once curbside recycling is implemented on Jan. 1.
Under a new contract with Waste Management, city residents will have free trash pickup and recycling in 2009. The new contract includes nearly 1,500 more homes that were not previously part of the city’s refuse collection program.¬ Residents of apartment complexes and trailer parks are not included under the expanded program.
Recycling bins will be distributed to residents in four phases, beginning December 10. Included inside the recycling bins will be information on what to recycle and pickup schedules. The recycle program will begin in January, with pickup for recyclables every two weeks the same day as refuse collection.
“Our residents told us they wanted a recycling option and City Council is responding,” Mayor Paul Natale said. “The city’s best opportunity to obtain a favorable rate for recycling was to include it in the overall bid for refuse collection.”
Although the city is moving to curbside recycling it will retain its existing recycle drop off center at 7450 Highway 2. Recycling services have been added to the city’s trash pickup service in response to feedback from residents who want more earth-friendly options for refuse collection.
The additional recycling service will not be charged to residents next year; it will be paid for by the city, as directed by the City Council. While recycling is not mandatory, resident participation is strongly encouraged to ensure the city can maintain a cost-effective and responsible program long-term. City Council directed staff to monitor citizen utilization of the program in 2009 and evaluate the city’s ability to fully fund the program in 2010 and beyond as growth in the city occurs and costs increase.
With the new program, residents will need to separate recyclables from other household garbage. The recycle program itself, however, is “single stream,” meaning recyclable materials such as plastics #1-7, aluminum and or various types of paper may be placed in one bin for pickup.
Adding curbside recycling service is the latest in the city’s efforts to become more environmentally friendly. The city’s new Civic Center highlights other efforts. The center is built to silver LEED certification standards for a “green” building, and features savings in lighting, water and energy use.
Okay to the person who asked if the recycling program is mandatory or required. No, it is not required, but strongly suggested.
I have heard that Exempla is finishing their plans now.
The Kaiser story....well I was told that was not set, more of a possibility sometime.
I was sad to hear that the City's PIO, Tim Carroll, is moving on. Good luck to him in his next adventure. And congratulations to Community Enterprise and partners for the lovely Winterfest in Derby.
I heard that plans are being fianlized for the Boys and Girls Club at Kearney Middle School. Rumor of fact anyone?
When will the core part of the city start recycling?
The whole thing will be up and going by Jan of 2009! Can't wait. This is a good day in Commerce City!
SECURITY GUARD SHOT AND KILLED
On December 12, 2008, at approximately 10:50 p.m., the Adams County Sheriff's Office received a radio call of a shooting victim at The Grizzly Rose, 5450 Valley Highway, in unincorporated Adams County.
Three suspects were in the east parking area behind The Grizzly Rose, dressed in “hoodies” and wearing bandanas over the lower half of their faces. One of the suspects was wearing a baseball cap. Grizzly Rose security guards contacted the three suspects and an altercation ensued. One of the suspects drew a pistol and began firing several rounds at the security guards. One of the guards, 48-year-old, Timothy Minnick, of Brighton, was shot. The victim was transported to an area hospital where he died a short time later.
The suspects were last seen running southbound from the scene where they got into a mid 90’s white or silver sports utility type vehicle, possibly a Jimmy or Blazer. The vehicle has a luggage rack and chrome or a light blue kick-panel. It also has tinted back windows but the driver’s window does not appear tinted. A female was seen in the suspect’s vehicle, and she is described as a heavy-set female with long hair that fell past her shoulders. The male suspects were all described as being Hispanic males, in their late teens to early twenties, slender builds, between 5’4” and 5’7”.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Adams County Sheriff's Office at (720)322-1313.
Also heard about Tim and want to wish he Good Luck.
Just a Rumor on the Boys and Girls Club, lot more meetings of the minds needs to take place.
This could become a reality, but not just yet. More to come on this as it develops.
The boys and girls club decision is a district 14 thing, not a city function. The city is supportive, but not in control of it.
Holiday message from the Mayor is very COOL! Just the positive and forward thinking message the citizens need to hear, especially these days.
Thanks to the Mayor and hope we hear from other city officials too. Hint hint, ward three representative.
I really don’t think anyone knows what is going on with a Boys and Girls Club! If it is going to be part of Ortho Stewart Middle school like what Mr. Benson said at a council meeting , then it would be a School District 27J deal. If it is going to be in the south, well, then it will more likely never happen! Ten years will pass and we will still be talking about getting a Boys and Girls club in Commerce City. We have to realize that we as a nation are in a financial crisis and things like Boys and Girls clubs are a good thing, but by no means a priority!
Besides, why isn’t the groups involved in this not more aggressively going after state and federal money, isn’t Commerce City the ideal place for something like a Boys and Girls club that is funded by the state or federal government?
Citizen and Active Voter
I am a affiliate of the group Colorado Recycles.
We want to praise Commerce City on your city wide curb-side recycling program that will start the beginning of next year. You are precisely what a modern city’s behavior should be regarding our most precious resource, mother earth.
We commend you as a leader in the state of Colorado.
What is the I-70 EAST improvement alternatives impact Commerce City.
3 basic ideas here, keep I-70 straight, hump it south and impact Denver (Western Stock Show area), hump it North and impact Commerce City. Want to know more?
Visit:
http://www.i-70east.com/index.shtml
Have an opinion on this?
Lets hear what it is.
I sure was excited when I saw the recycle bins in my driveway. Outstanding job Mayor Natale and members of council. This also saves me money since I can’t cook and eat out of cans that I can now put in my bin instead of filling up those expensive plastic bags. ..lol
$100 Guy
The Gateway News asked the CCBPA the process of selecting the Citizen of the Year for clarification to the community.
The process is as follows:
In the first week of September, Ballots for the next years officers, and nomination forms for the Citizen of the Year and Business of the Year, are mailed out to the membership. This year there were 90 packets mailed out. One vote and one nomination for each, per member. Both forms are printed on different colored paper, which changes from year to year. Non original forms are not accepted.
The forms are to be returned no later than October 1st.
The Ballots are tallied and the results announced at the October business meeting.
The Nomination Committee meets to tally and consider the Nominations for COY and BOY. It should be noted that the Nomination/Election Committee answers only to the Membership, not to the Board of Directors. Committee members are not members of the Board of Directors. Selectees are determined as much as possible on the following;
" Number of nominations by the membership."
" Contributions to the Community and citizens of Commerce City."
Should not be serving as an Elected Official, i.e.., Council Member, Water Board, School Board, Fire Board, etc. Should not be serving as an Officer or Board member of the CCBPA. Nominees are not required to be members of the CCBPA, although most are. Selections are not based on Politics or affiliations.
The Nomination Committee always has an Odd number of members. This year there were Five. Al Klein, Lois Kimmes, Mac McFarlin, Janet Union, and Joyce Waldroop.
We all have thick hides and broad shoulders, and we realize the selections made "never pleases everyone".
So to answer one of the questions from your blog, Mrs. Lewis is but only 1 member out of 90. School Board politics have nothing to do with the selections this or any other year. Mr. Vashaw is not a member of the CCBPA. The firing of Dr. Lange took place midstream during our Election/Selection process.
The CCBPA has no official position on the firing of Dr. Lange. The members of the CCBPA are probably like the rest of the city, split in their opinions.
GOV. RITTER ANNOUNCES $21.5 MILLION FOR COMMUNITIES
Gov. Bill Ritter and Department of Local Affairs Executive Director Susan Kirkpatrick today announced $21.5 million in grants to 35 cities and towns for construction, infrastructure and other community projects that will help create jobs and strengthen local economies.
“Communities all across Colorado are struggling to cope with this global economic crisis,” Gov. Ritter said. “These grants will allow communities to make key investments in projects that will put people to work and strengthen local economies in the short-term, while making communities more livable and economically healthy in the long-term.”
Funding for the Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance Grants are derived from severance tax and federal mineral lease revenues. The Department of Local Affairs received 44 applications seeking $54 million in grant funding, an unprecedented level of competition. The grants will allow communities to leverage more than $145 million in public-private and local matching funds, to bring a combined $166.5 million in construction activity to Colorado .
“Communities that are impacted by energy and mineral development throughout the state will benefit from these grant awards,” DOLA Executive Director Kirkpatrick said. “The competition for the severance and federal mineral lease grant dollars was stiff. Projects that meet basic needs like water, sewer, drainage, and local roads received highest priority. Projects that demonstrated a strong energy conservation or renewable energy component also received priority.”
This year’s grant process was revamped and refined to make it more transparent, accountable and strategic, Gov. Ritter and Executive Director Kirkpatrick said. DOLA worked with legislators, local officials and the energy industry to enhance the effectiveness of the application, review and award process. The grant program was created by the legislature in 1977.
I heard that the city's PIO, Tim Carroll, was leaving because he could not get along with the city's management of city manager and deputy city managers.
I think you heard wrong, Tim is a pretty laid back kind of guy. He is actually going back to the private sector of PR.
He was a good PIO and we will miss him.
Red Barn Rebel
Tim left because he got a better job with a PR firm, not because he had any kind of an issue with Commerce City Staff.
FactsFirst
We have a Commerce City law that states that sidewalks are supposed to be cleared 24 hours after it snows. I want to know why the city of Commerce City feels like they do not have to follow this law. I am talking Commerce City owned sidewalk not cleared.
Sidewalks law does apply to the city, as Nixon said, it is not illegal if the president does it! LOL!!!
City not following their own laws has been a issue for years now, it ain’t going to happen so give it up!
I guess I will be the one to ask the question that is the elephant in the room.
Why didn’t Commerce City get any of the Ritter Grant Money. Brighton got 3 (around 2.5 Million Dollars, according the gateway news cartoon guy), Commerce City got none? Does Ritter not like us?
ccSpeaks
just a thought...
I just saw a commercial for Sunflower Market, Serious food Silly prices.
Why not go after them as far as getting them to come to the north.
Forget Kings or Safeway, lets go smaller. At least for a good start.
Thinking Out Loud
Send in your complaint about a city sidewalk to the AskC3 on the web site. It can be done anonymously.
I agree that the city should clear there walks as well.
I have been reading the web logs since almost the start of this website. I can clearly see that Commerce City has two very different cities. We have a North city and a South city. We have groups and study sessions that try their hardest to make us one community. It doesn’t help that we have two school districts and a huge piece of land between us.
The reality is that we are very different at least in my opinion, I do think this is really a bad thing, it is just what we are. Maybe if we just accept the fact, we can all form a plan of action that can deal with this fact, instead of trying to cover it up.
Core Comments
Badge and Honor Ceremony for the Commerce City Police Department was very well put together. What a great Department.
Just a side note, everyone watch out on I-270, Commerce City Police Department is using it as a speed trap. Where they should setup a speed trap is on 104th! People going 60, sometimes 65 miles per hour!
Tim Dalton, Commerce City
Congratulations to all the members of the Commerce City Police Department who received awards. To the citizen who turned in the graffiti violators, GREAT JOB!
Sid M. Cin City
Sunflower Market is too expensive, but I would take one up by us.
Thinking out loud?, what about maybe acting out loud!
Reunion Rocks Commerce City!
Just no Whole foods, they are way too pricey!
City should not take on the liability of a Homeless Shelter. We need to let Social Services handle this issue. I was shocked by Kathy Teter’s comments about making the program so good that other cities would utilize it, after all we are talking about other humans here. Politicians really need to watch their words or at least think before they open their mouths.
ccSpeaks
Robert Romine did a good thing with the hat and glove program. It was a sad story about the little girl and her housing situation. I wish the best of luck to everyone going thru a tough time these days.
Kayla, Commerce City
Commerce City Police Department performing Homicide investigation
COMMERCE CITY ― On December 19, 2008 at approximately 11:18 p.m., the Commerce City Police Department responded to a shot’s fired call at Parkway Liquors, at 6075 Parkway Drive in the city of Commerce City.
While the Commerce City Police Department was on that scene performing their investigation they learned that a twenty-two year old male was brought into North Suburban Medical Center’s Emergency Room suffering from a gunshot wound.
Detectives from the Commerce City Police Department have learned that a disturbance had taken place between a group of males which started inside the liquor store and then spilled outside.
As the disturbance was coming to an end a black male, later described with a skinny build about 5’11’’ to 6’00’’ feet tall, wearing black clothing with a black baseball cap with the letter “P” on it removed a handgun from his person and fired several shots towards the other group of males.
Marco Escalera, twenty-two years old from Denver was shot at that time.
Both groups then fled the area in SUV's. Both the victim’s vehicle and suspect’s vehicle were later found, one in Denver and the other in Commerce City, however the suspect’s vehicle was found parked and abandoned.
Marco Escalera was driven from the scene to the hospital by friends where he was later pronounced dead as a result of his injuries.
Detectives are currently interviewing witnesses to identify the suspect(s) involved and the motive behind the shooting.
The Commerce City Police Department is asking anyone with information that could help in this investigation to please call the Commerce City Police Department at (303) 227-8840.
I know this happens in every city, but it is too sad when it happens around the Christmas time.
Martins
Continental Airlines Flight 1404 bound for Houston ran 200 yards off a runway at Denver International Airport and into a ravine Saturday night, catching fire and injuring 58 of the 112 people aboard, authorities said.
audio can be heard here:
http://denver.co.scanamerica.us/LibraryArticle5183.html
Everyone who are complaining about things that involve the city here need to leave their issues with the city’s askC3 via the city’s website. If you want action or be part of the solution, you need to utilize the askC3 program by the city.
askC3 direct website:
http://user.govoutreach.com/commercecity/faq.php
FYI for All you Guys.
Citizen Richard, way to go! Wish I got $250 from the PD!
Commerce City seniors to donate quilts to shelter
COMMERCE CITY – Taking a tip from Santa’s elves, a group of Commerce City seniors have been hard at work since June creating quilts for an area women’s shelter. They will deliver 20 of the handcrafted
bedcovers on Thursday to Brandon Center in Denver.
Members of the Quilting Club at the Commerce City Recreation Center decided in June to take on the project for the shelter. Brandon Center is a 90-bed facility that provides 24-hour services to women and children who are homeless, have been the victims of domestic violence or other violent crimes, or are
facing a domestic crisis.
Quilting Club members undertook the project to make Christmas a little brighter for those at the shelter.
Along with the quilts, they also crafted Teddy Bears for the children there. The club meets weekly to work on projects. In June, one of the members suggested the group participate in the shelter’s “Adopt-A-Room” program, creating items to make the room more comfortable and welcoming. The Quilting Club responded with a commitment to make quilts for 20 of
the rooms. “We have a love of quilting,” said member Irene Stertz of Commerce City. And the group was happy to use their skills to help others. Months of dedicated quilting was needed to complete the project, of which Irene simply said, “When I agree to do something, I see it through.”
Much of the material for the quilts and Teddy Bears was donated by various residents. Some material, such as batting and backing, was purchased through group fundraisers.
The Quilting Club has been creating quilts for 25 years. The group meets Wednesdays, 9-11 a.m. at the Conter Community Center, 6505 E. 60th Ave. Sewers of all levels are invited to participate – come to a meeting, where you will enjoy the camaraderie and exchange of ideas.
For more information on joining the quilting club, please contact the Senior Center at (303) 289-372.
Metro Mayors and Commissioner Youths Awards seeking nominations
Do you know a youth in the community that has gone through some hard times, but strives to be a picture of strength in the community? Perhaps you are that youth.
If so, send in your nomination for the Metropolitan Mayors and Commissioners Youth Awards. The MMCYA seeks to recognize teens who have overcome personal adversity and created positive changes in their environments, and who have contributed in their own way toward making their life or
community a better place to live.
Last year, Commerce City’s Peter Montoya was recognized at the county and metropolitan level. The
MMCYA is encouraging more nominees from the Commerce City area.
If you know a teen, ages 13-19, who you believe should be recognized, call Jenna Sutheimer,
Commerce City youth services coordinator, at (303) 289-3674. Nomination forms can also be picked
up at the Commerce City Recreation Center, 6060 Parkway Drive. All nomination forms should be
returned to Sutheimer.
All nomination forms must be received by Friday, Jan. 9.
Teen activities abound during January
The Commerce City Parks and Recreation Department is offering fun-filled activities during the month of January. Check out these great January teen activities:
Snowtubing ― Join us on your day off from school on Monday, Jan. 19 from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. for a fun day of snow tubing! Meet at the Commerce City Recreation Center and we will take you to Frasier Mountain. Teens age 11 to 17 are welcome. The cost is $28 for residents, $32 for nonresidents; price includes transportation, admission and lunch.
Call (303) 289-3789 and register for class 7051.101. Sign up soon as space is limited.
Teen jam-middle school night ― if rocking out is your gig, then you’ll want to compete on the big screen in the “Battle of the Rock Bands” on Saturday, Jan. 17 from 7-10 p.m. This rockin’ good time is for 6th through 8th graders only. Fee is $2. No entry or re-entry after 8 p.m.
High school night ― calling all high school students … come hang out at the Commerce City Recreation Center’s “Rec Rave” on Saturday, Jan. 24 from 7-10 p.m. This is for high school students only. Fee is $2 and you must bring your student ID.
For more information on these or other teen programs, check the winter/spring issue of the Parks and Recreation Activities Guide, or call Jenna Sutheimer at (303) 289-3674.
I own a home in the Buffalo Run area and I am so full of regret. It seems that this city has no plans to build anything for the people in my area. Everything that I hear about them wanting to build has to be conveniently located to the people living in the old industrial part of the city. They put a dog park in a dangerous tractor trailer area instead of on 104th because the people living in the south complained they didn’t have one. I purchased in this area thinking it would be developed as its own community designed for the people who live here. Geographically it’s make no sense for me to drive to the older part of the city for anything accept to occasionally attend Dick’s. . If I wanted to use the recreation center on 65th ave and the parks in that area I would have purchased a home there. That’s why people choose the area in which they purchase. I wanted to live in an area where I felt the neighbors would have similar interests and spoke a common language. I don’t think city council has a clue what’s best for us or even care. If it ever comes to a vote to separate from Commerce City you can count on my vote. Where in the heck are the representatives for the north. The city will make our property values get ever worst with the crap they’re pulling. To my neighbors. We need to stand up and do something now. Let's protect our children and our investment.
To Buffalo Run Resident,
It takes some time for things to come together. 104th was just open both ways not more then a couple of weeks ago.
Eventually, the 104th and Tower corridors will be developed and it will look good. We will have to get a grocery store eventually. Remember we just got a really good economic director (Brittney Morris). Let's let her work and see what we look like in about 6 months, if things are still the same then we will have something to complain about.
Dear Buffalo Run resident. I feel sorry for you. You complain, but obviously have no idea of the way cities work, what it takes to get developers to build or how much our city has improved.
I realize that you haven't lived here long, but things have changed greatly in the last year, and I believe they will get even better. I have been to the dog park. It is well located, safe and easy to get to. The land by it, will hopefully be a new rec center someday when the funding can be obtained.
Good things take time. Business is cautious expecially now, about expanding.
It isn't about you and your needs, it is about the best for our city. I also want grocery stores, other businesses and convinences, I go to city council meetings or watch on this site. I see what the city is working on, it doesn't happen easy. Get involved and stop complaining!
To my dear fellow Buffalo resident,
Why didn't you check out the area and do your homework before you moved here?
Just to let you know there is also a big airport nearby, so you might hear annoying planes every once in a while.
Fellow Northern Resident
I share your frustration,
When I bought here, I was told by my sales man that there would be a food market in the area within the year, that was 3 years ago.
I do not see any activity at all with the Walmart that was going to be at the end of 104th.
I am tired of driving miles and miles to get food to cook and I do not think we need anymore pizza or beer.
Life is not that great in the Northern part of Commerce City.
I understand you (Buffalo Resident)
We are in the same boat.
S. Ayre, Northern Resident on Commerce City
GOOD LUCK BRONCOS! COMMERCE CITY LOVES YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes go Broncos, BUT, Nuggets are the team that Commerce City really loves! Nuggets beat NY
Salesmen promise anything to get a sale, ever deal with a car salesman?
I have lived in the north for more than 5 yrs and really really want a grocery. I work for a grocery store....they are not expanding. The few that are recently or now being built were planned 6 or 7 yrs ago at the minimum. Everyone has pulled back.
Luckily Walmart still has us on the list, although I'm p---ed that they have postponed the ground breaking.
The city sadly can't control the economy or the decisions that business makes.
Hopefully the new ED director can pull some strings or convince some of them to take the chance!!
You only hear about grocery stores about every 4 to 6 months. I have heard so many rumors it is ridiculous. I will not believe anything anyone says until I actually see milk and meat being shipped to some building up here in the northern range.
As far as what you sales person said to you. It does not matter. His job is to sell you a house and it looks he did a good job.
Brian Q.
First I’d like to say “Yes, I researched prior to buying”. I agree our city has come a long way thanks to the leadership of our mayor. I do understand that the economy is bad and we’ll have to wait for retail in our area. Development of parks and recreation by the city is something that we can control. Why is it that the city put a dog park and maybe planning a recreation center in an industrial park far from our homes? How many people can walk from their home to use it? Would our children be able to safely walk, ride their bikes or skate to it? In reality, how many of us would be willing to drive there? The location is poor and for me unacceptable. I understand there are many that live in Commerce City that have embraced mixed residential/industrial community and have lived happy for years. My comment was not a condemnation of your way of life but the north area is a suburban family friendly residential group of communities. The neighbors are friendly and courteous. The streets are clean and views are spectacular. As far as the airport, I think it’s the same person making that comment over and over again. We are all aware of our proximity to the airport. Since we are not in the departure corridor and none of the approach procedures bring aircraft over our homes at low altitudes that is not a problem. Besides, jet noise is the sound of freedom. I have a suspicion that the comments made in support of building in industrial parks were made by those who either don’t live in the area or will never use such facilities or have no children to be concerned about.
Brian, you are right about the sales people that sell houses. But that does not make it right. I was told something similar.
Resident looking to move to a better place.
Commerce City Hours
December 31 - City offices will close at noon
January 1 - City offices will be closed for the holiday and will reopen at 8 a.m. on Friday, January 2.
There are more residents in the north than Reunion, Fonterra, Turnberry and Buffalo Run.
There is also Belle Creek, the Dunes, River Run, River Oaks among a few others.
The area off of 104th will probably develop with many types of businesses, not just industrial and I hope a rec center.
Most residents of the north will pass that area going west. Only the ones further east will go east on a regular basis. I have also heard the land owners from just east of hwy 2 to tower want extremely high $$s for their land. The city already owns the piece at 104th.
I think they should make the best of it for the entire northern area not just those east.
Must I also remind you a great number of people in the northern (east) area have a rec center in their neighborhood.
Please don't forget about those of us west of hwy 2....we've been here the longest and have patiently waited!
Maybe it would be better to look at what is best for all the neighborhoods, and stop pitting one area against another!
~Just and idea!
NO GROCERY STORES!
All we hear is excuses, first there is not enough roof tops, then to was 104th is not right, then it was something about water (city does not control its own water, another strange thing I have never heard before in any other city I lived in!), Now I am sure it will be the national economy. I hope none of you hold your breath for a real food store to open up, you will surely die, unless you starve first!
Dieter and Riley, Commerce City Residents
Do you know how long it took Highlands Ranch to see their first Kings or Safeway, it was something like 10 years.
I hope some of you got cheese for Christmas, cause I hear a lot of whining!
Yuck Yuck!
p.s. also from the north
I'm afraid that if a rec center is built in in the wrong location once the "newness" wears off it'll become just a tax burden with just a few people using it like the other one. places like belle creek and reunion have their own rec center, parks and pools. good to see a good topic again
2 Points, Very Important for Me!
1. Now is not the time, but someday, the water department (South Adams County Water) should be part of Commerce City.
2. Rec Center in the North! City has no money now and that’s is not their fault. But when we are back on our feet, this needs to be a priority.
Erin NW
FYI the "other rec center" gets used a lot and carries it's own weight.
Belle Creek's rec center is way too small to be of much use.
It is a good topic and important to me as well. I think since 104th is so well traveled the spot near Havana would be great for a majority of the northern range.
The new middle school looks huge. The city should try to work something out with SD 27J to allow those living close use of the gym. Also I overheard some people in starbucks saying that once a fire station and post office opens in the north it can become an autonomous city. Is that why we have a different school district?
School district boundaries are set up long in advance of city boundaires.
Other cities, Arvada, Westminster, Thornton, to name a few have more than one school district. It is not as unusual as believe.
The northern range will remain Commerce City. All of us in the north need to realize that. To pay the city back for infastructure would be astronomical...you think taxes are high now!!
We are CC all of us, lets support the city and help it to become better and better!!
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