General Issues August, 2011

Another month has passed 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 opinions.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your opinion comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and www.gatewaynews.org

*In general, an opinion is a subjective belief, and is the result of emotion or interpretation of facts. An opinion may be supported by an argument, although people may draw opposing opinions from the same set of facts.

589 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   201 – 400 of 589   Newer›   Newest»
Anonymous said...

The city manager and police chief that did the pens, cover ups and DUIs are no longer there. Who is there is the city manager who took an extra $72000 and got a longer period to get a 'real' loan on his own house because of a loss on his house and the economy just a week before he sold his house in AZ for a profit.
It does not pass the smell test!!!!

Anonymous said...

Any statistics that warrant us spending $500,000 on a private soccer complex the city has no access to ( citizens and Rex programs have to pay to use them )

All tax as I understand other than the few tickets sold at the stadium an merchandise concessions during their games goes elsewhere... Ticketmaster is in Denver , so are all the resteraunts shopping, hotels, etc....

Way to go on that deal council while citizens up north could use that $5M for a community park up north, maybe not as fancy as the infamous Pioneer Park ( which City staff has stated the loan from the North has been paid off so there should be money add to that)

Can't wait for November. Hope the change is swift and dramatic and we can start hearing about smart decisions that are for the benefit of the citizens not personal agendas and corporate bigwigs

Anonymous said...

if the city has money, start spending some on the American citizens living in the English speaking portion of commerce city. core city is too far and our children can't bike or walk there safely with the industrial vehicles and uninsured/unlicensed drivers there.

BOR said...

As soon as the incident happened with the past Commerce City city manager the then council took quick, decisive action, by canning his ass, EVEN before the second DUI. Maybe McIntyre can shed some light on how it all went down, since he was involved in the canning of the ass process.

This council let the current city manager take the 72K on a house that was suppose to take a loss that in reality did not, and since then, there is absolutely NO action. Only that he is worth every penny.

dkeys said...

current Commerce City council can't man up to the lobbyist they hired.
Hope things change in Nov.

Have a problem with what I write? Email me
dkeys@mail.com
Derrick

Jasmine B. Commerce City said...

Dusty,
Please re-post when you set up the endorsement section.

I am fully endorsing the mayor as a separate position, assuming it will be put on the 2011 ballot.

The reason why, is because in this specific situation I think we are losing a great opportunity.

I feel in November that Tracey Snyder would have made a great Commerce City mayor.

But, she can not run because she is termed out.

I would have been proud to live in a city were Tracey would be in charge. She has the delicate balance of what is right and wrong the has the community at heart.

I am happy that she is going to pursue a HD32 run, but she would have made a great, great mayor.

Not to forget that she would have made history by being Commerce City's first female mayor.

Jasmine, Commerce City (also part of team Tracey)

Anonymous said...

Commerce City Mayor Natale says "I have no confidence in the voters", well the fact is Natale, the voters have no confidence in you. So good bye, so long, and don't let the door, well close too hard behind you.

Anonymous said...

This Commerce City Council can't "man up" or "woman up" to any issue and YES we need to have another ass canning for the current city mismanager. SOON.

Anonymous said...

So my bet goes to Benson for the years worth of mileage 18 mths later.
He was the only one asking how to document the miles, otherwise he was totally quiet.
I wonder if he bills his clients the same way, 18mths later without documentation.
Must need to make his house payment and business has been slow.
So glad we have a choice to vote for.

CC+CHINA=GOOD said...

Chinese company ascent solar comes to Adams county. Too bad we could not get them to come to Commerce City. Since we put so much in getting China here.

Vikki, Commerce City said...

leave it to commerce city council to not disappoint. great meeting last night.

Gateway News Rumor Patrol said...

Correction:

I reported Commerce City had a reserve of 20%... The actual percent in 23%...

original post:
Gateway News Rumor Patrol

Campaign Rumors set straight...

The rumor was that Commerce City had reserves of 17% 4 years ago and now only has 6% today.

Fact is Commerce City reserves are still above 20% as of today.

*If you hear a campaign related rumor and you want it set straight, let us know...
dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

PRO CITY said...

New Businesses in Commerce City-

Bubba Chinos #16, 6160 E 72nd Ave - Mexican restaurant – 303-287-0721

El Noa Noa Salon de Belleza, 5895 E 72nd Ave - hair salon -303-862-9664

Revive Wellness and Anti Aging, 13659 104th Ave Ste 600 - medical clinic – 720-237-2150

Solo Threads, 7000 E 58th Ave - T-shirt printing – 720-436-5634

Paws for Spa, 15550 E 103rd Pl - pet grooming services – 303-288-3638

Angels Treasures Thrift Store, 6440 E 72nd Pl - thrift store – 303-319-3446

A Man With A Van, 5500 Colorado Blvd - moving company – 303-370-6600

The VIP Service, 9758 Laredo St - pet sitting services – 303-507-1765

Easy Rest, 6130 E 49th - mattress warehouse wholesaler – 303-287-8171

Noble Energy Conservation, 3975 E 56th Ave Unit A-18 - install & repair energy conservation products – 303-668-6048

Vintage Winter, 4999 Pontiac St - home furnishing & accessories distributor – 877-257-8963

Yuri said...

commerce city-what does 12K get you in graphics?

Anonymous said...

gn, why did commerce city take the citizen communication discussion off the agenda again?

BOR said...

did Commerce city mayor really say: "I have no confidence in the voters, it's only name recognition."?

Gateway News said...

Commerce City Council Meeting Highlights {Aug. 15th meeting}

Ordinance 1869 for issues to be put on the ballot for this November 1, 2011 election by the Commerce City council was approved with a vote of 7 yes and 1 no, with Natale being the no vote as he says he is strongly opposed to the charter change to make the mayoral position separate from a city council position. This change, if passed by the voters, will allow a person to run for two consecutive terms as a city council person, four years each, and then two consecutive terms as mayor, or vice versa, for a total of 16 years in office. The other issues for the ballot include a 7% excise tax on all marijuana sales (legal and illegal), change of organizational meeting after city council elections, and to remove city council members from the planning commission.

Council once again, for the second week in a row, removed off the agenda, the discussion about issues regarding citizen's communication. The reason given was that Councilman McEldowney is out of town for his job regarding the Verizon strike and would not be able to be part of the discussion. This has been put off since last May, when it was first asked to be put on the agenda.

During citizen's communication, a business owner from Commerce City, who has owned his business here for 20 years, complained that city staff has been delaying with no valid reason, his project to build an addition to his business. Councilman Benson said that staff should see how we can get this done and not delay it. The business owner attempted to have city council view a diagram of his proposed project, which will increase taxes and job opportunities, and Mayor Natale denied his request.

Anonymous said...

GN,
I heard this business owner who spoke at citizen communication had a hell of a time with Commerce City staff. He wanted to get on the agenda but didn't work out.

Hope city can help this guy. He wants to make a significant improvement and city jerks him around?

Seems like that is not the best way to treat people or businesses.

Anonymous said...

This "business owner" needs to work with the staff! has nothing to to with council!!!!!!!!

Irene, CC said...

Commerce City Council,
please do not take the free trash service away. Sounds more and more like a big nightmare.
I am afraid of what the city will end up if this is taken away.

Dominick Moreno via facebook said...

Do you think elected officials are entitled to special benefits above and beyond average citizens? I don't. Going forward, I'm asking my fellow Councilmembers to abolish the taxpayer funded "Elected Officials Retirement Fund". We don't need special perks for answering the call of public service.

King of Olive Street said...

Mr. Moreno,
As long as you honor the benefits in the past. I think it is only the responsible thing to do to get rid of it. It will eventually spiral out of control.

GOP in CC said...

YES get rid of this. Absolutely absurd!
Thanks Dominick for bringing this to the light!

Cheo, Commerce City said...

I disagree with Dominick Moreno. The Commerce City council are not "part time". If anything, they are more then full time. I think the "Elected Officials Retirement Fund" is just a small token of thanks for your service.

Nancy, Commerce City said...

Curious why CC Council Member Dominic is making this his hill.
I say you need some incentives to get people to run for elected office.
They are going to put their neck out, nothing wrong with some small incentive.
Its not like it will make a ton of difference in a city that has a budget of 40 to 50 million.

Anonymous said...

after all that Commerce City council goes through!!!!!!!!!
Give them the Retirement Money!
Cmon have a heart!!!!!!!!!

No to Unions in CC! said...

Subject: Elected Officials Retirement Fund

sounds like a union issue push?

Wes, Northern Range said...

elected officials retirement fund?
What about the car allowances for staff?
Moreno, pick your battles carefully.

Anonymous said...

mayor meant percents, not dollars for surplus.
Makes more sense, Still on the right track.

Wes, Northern Range said...

Seems to be a lot of mistakes lately when it comes to Commerce City finances.

BOR said...

Maybe Dominick Moreno has no care about the Elected Officials Retirement Fund because he is only in his twenties.
He has a long time to grow up.

Pro-Union said...

elected official retirement is NOT a union thing. It is a fairness thing. GIVE it UP!

Hyde said...

wait, percents of surplus. What are the dollars. percents would be higher, because the revenue is lower, right?

Gateway News Twitter said...

Post Reporter who called Commerce City "Stinky" takes tour... Remarks: "Gorgeous. Stapleton like but w/ Adams County prices."

Ollie said...

does that mean ADCO is cheap? Nice.

jax, cc said...

Stapleton like? Maybe the north housing, BUT NOT the retail.

I guess she had to say something. You can say CC is stinky, but you can put it out in the public. That if NOT politically correct.

Anonymous said...

Come on people - have you seen how many meetings and events council members are expectted to attend and support besides their council meetings. If I ever decided to run for council it will have to be after I retire. We expect a lot for the small amount of wages they earn.

Anonymous said...

agreed. Elected Officials Retirement Fund is very petty in the over all picture

council works pretty damn hard and takes a lot of crap.

this very small incentive is nothing

Anonymous said...

All Council really has to attend is Monday night meetings - the rest is just for formality and to be nice - not really necessary they attend - they don't actually produce any work - just attend and give opinions and that is about it - not necessary to attend - voluntary for the most part - like it or not - that's the truth.

Anonymous said...

The elected officials receive about 20 per month per year served.
IE: 8yrs in office 160.00 per month!
Woo Hoo!
They can't receive until 60 or 62 not sure.
So no this is never going to really escalate.
Not to sound mean, but as some retire, others will pass away.
I agree with others, that there needs to be some kind of incentive for all the crap they take!

Anonymous said...

So it sounds like the "fix" is in.
Just heard that at the South Adams County Water Dist. board meeting last week, Larry Ford couldn't get a vote he needed.
So he called for an exec meeting and when all came out, ALL voted with him.
They voted to provide water to a group who live in Brighton (which is against the agreement with CC).
You must realize this group are friends/supporters of Sean Ford.
The same group who took Sean on a paid trip to India a short time ago.
Yep, the fix is in and the deals begin.

Anonymous said...

I noticed that Mr. Moreno did not suggest abolishing the cost of living allowance added automatically every year to the council's salaries, which would affect him right now. Very few people are getting a raise of any kind, cost of living or otherwise. A lot of salaries across the board have been frozen and a lot have been downsized. Not to mention everybody who flatout lost their jobs. Does he wish to abolish each councilmember's yearly cost of living raise, their free passes to the rec center, golf course, box seats to the Rapids and their discretionary funds? These are certainly "perks". If elected to a higher office, is he prepared to turn down retirement, expense accounts, vehicles and all other perks? Probably not.

Anonymous said...

We do not know which council person did not turn in mielage from 2010. It just might be that they were never told that they could before. They might have thought that they only got their monthly check and they thought it was to cover their mmileage too. Staff does NOT communicate with council or to council. Council has to figure things out alone as they go along. And again Natale is so damn smug because he is perfect.

jax, cc said...

gn,
about the "fix" comment.
what is the agreement with Commerce City and Water Dept?

For the VAST mass of us who don't know.

thanks!

Dustin, Gateway News said...

Jax,

In short...

From my understanding,

There is a Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) with The South Adams County Water Department and Commerce City that basically states that if you want service from South Adams, you need to annex into Commerce City. I think the IGA was created sometime in 2004 to 2006. Of course there are exceptions (such as the Adams Crossing deal).

There are strong opinions about this on both sides.

Anonymous said...

RE: We do not know which council person did not turn in mileage from 2010?

GN, can you find out?

Wes, Northern Range said...

I don't give a damn if their are "strong opinions" a signed deal is a signed deal! South Adams County Water Dist. needs to quite trying to be above everyone. By the way when is Commerce City going to take over that outdated dinosaur!?
So. Adams water needs to honor and uphold the IGA with CC

BOR said...

excellent comment about Moreno and retirement fund: "Does he wish to abolish each councilmember's yearly cost of living raise, their free passes to the rec center, golf course, box seats to the Rapids and their discretionary funds?"

Moreno needs to be all in or not at all!

Anonymous said...

So if you pay enough to the water district they will vote to allow you in, even if you don't annex into Commerce City? Man Larry Ford has a lot of power.

Anonymous said...

FYI:
Last year council took a cut in pay because the cost of living index was a negative. While they still voted in a small salary increase for the city staff (not management).

Anonymous said...

The Adams Crossing deal never came to place.
The SACW was to provide temporary water to the new county building until Brighton could provide water.
Brighton got the water in place earlier than expected.
This aggreement was never a permanent one and was made with Commerce City involvment.

Anonymous said...

Is Gateway hosting Sean Ford's home page for his election??

Gateway News said...

The Gateway News does not own a hosting company.

Anonymous said...

GN,
can you get the dollar amounts of the reserves and not the percents?

Anonymous said...

is the suncor settlement considered to be a reserve?

Anonymous said...

I heard Commerce City at one point that that they could get Adams Crossing into city limits because of the So. Adams Water IGA. Making CC the county seat.

Estelle Remington said...

We need to stop payments on those six soccer fields at 5 million dollars and have our city attorney file some kind of motion to try and get back millions already paid in for "no use." In the eight years that Tracy Snyder has served on city council, she has voted these huge million dollar expenses in for her Ward and children. At no time, did she sponsor or support any Parks and services to the Northern Range's people or children.

I support Council member Moreno on stopping the elected officials retirement fund because while it is only about 32,000+ a year now in coming years this will double and triple as more and more council members become eligible. As, will all the other benefits voted to themselves by council. I would support a discounted Golf membership, etc. Even though, these are owned by CC, the average citizen has no such access to free participation nor do they get a discount of any kind. Yes, it is not all that much money at this time but over the next ten years this entire package deal will become a burden on the taxpayer that we can not afford. This is that "Good Ole Boys" thing that political office needs to come with some kind of perks of service. There is no difference between CC retirement package, Golf memberships, etc. and the City Manager's deal just dollars and sense!

Anonymous said...

Buffalo Run Golf Course Pond Stinks! Whats up with it?

In the Know said...

I do not think Commerce City could "try and get back millions already paid in for "no use.""
It is not the fault that we did not USE IT.

City still has option to use Dicks stadium for events. I think it is for free, maybe 5 or 6 times a year?

Why does the city not take advantage of that deal.

Gateway News Twitter said...

Denver POST: Commerce City fountains to be shut down when Phish plays Dick's Sporting Goods Park...

http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_18699617?source=rss&utm_medium=twitter&cref=twitter

Yuri said...

I love it! This is going to be a big mess.

Natale said the move is just a precaution and isn't aimed specifically at Phish fans or worries they will use the fountains to bath or cool off during their three-day stay.

The jam band's followers trail Phish throughout the country when Phish tours, much like those who gravitated to the shows of the legendary Grateful Dead.

"It's not because we think Phish followers are not the best of people," said Natale. "But we just want to avoid a challenge that may or may not come up. We are more concerned about what may be placed in the fountains."

Archer said...

polite way of asking Phish People to please do not use our fountains as a potty place?

Marcus, Commerce City said...

"isn't aimed specifically at Phish fans" then why turn them off?

"avoid a challenge that may or may not come up." again, then why turn them off?

jax, cc said...

Commerce City can't ever get a break.

Commerce City manager does store on channel 9 and we get mean comments.

Mayor does story on Denver Post and we get mean comments.

Comments From Denver Post: At first I thought Commerce City should be ENCOURAGING the hippies to bathe, then I remembered that Commerce City smells bad enough that nobody will notice a influx of unwashed masses.

concerned about what maybe placed in the fountain? like what?? afraid some Phish phreak will attempt to dose the fine citizens? you people ingest more crud from the refinery each minute than a good old fashioned dosin' would in a LIFETIME


Even Post reporter called us stinky!

Really beginning to piss me off!

Anonymous said...

to jax,
I understand, it makes me upset too. But, re-posting the comments here does not help. Just ignore them.

jax, cc said...

Ignore the Denver Post?
Okay, thanks for the wasted advice.

Sharkey, Brighton said...

RE: Phish Camping: "officials aren't exactly sure what to expect?"

Lots and lots of hippies. Like boulder only worse.

Too bad CC doesn't have that 7% weed tax in place now. You guys would have made a killin'

King of Olive Street said...

Response to Jax,

not just denver post and NBC (9)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkMiqKKrrlg

10,059 views
29 LIKES
0 DisLIKES

Very disappointing.

dkeys said...

About the fountains at city hall during Phish concert, if the exhibits probably would have been shut off in early September in any case, Natale said.

Why even report it to the Denver Post?

Why not just shut them off and avoid all of this?

Anonymous said...

to estelle,
I think of the golf course "perk" for the Commerce City council more as a good public relations move.

Many high level deals are done on golf courses.

I have no problem at all with allowing Council the free pass to the golf course. It gives them the avenue to show off one of the nicer things in our city.

Nancy said...

Natale: "We are more concerned about what may be placed in the fountains."

What could be placed in the fountains? Something dangerous?

Dazed and Confused in River Run said...

Why is cc mayor making statements on Phish fountains? I thought it was the city manager who ran the city?

Anonymous said...

I hope Commerce City didn't take Denver Post Reporter Lynn Bartels to Golf Course during her punishment tour of the city. The pond really does stink. I think something died!

GOP in CC said...

reyes should resign? what about the rest of them?

Anonymous said...

How much does the the city pay for the council's free health coverage? No other council had this benefit, but it might be a good incentive for people to run for office.

Anonymous said...

Estelle,
I know you love to write, but try reading others comments. One I read the other day, said the council retirement is not receivable until an ex council person is 60 or 62 yrs old.
That means many that are currantly getting will probably pass away, before others recieve the money.
For instance Moreno will not get his retirement for 40 yrs.
Hardly doubt this will double and triple as you stated.

Anonymous said...

GN,
I just researched Sean Ford for mayor, the home page led me to Sean Ford for mayor Gateway News.org.
Is that not you?

Anonymous said...

Hey BOR I agree either Moreno needs to be all in or all out on top of the lists provided so far

"Does he wish to abolish each councilmember's yearly cost of living raise, their free passes to the rec center, golf course, box seats to the Rapids and their discretionary funds?"

I believe that they also get access to some health benefits to ( not sure if they get full benefits as an employee would, but sure they get some access that was voted on in recent years by council...

All in or not at all young Mr. Moreno.

Anonymous said...

hey mayor, it's south commerce city that has the image problem. the north can stand on it's own so no need to bring reporters trying to convince them it's the same place....it's not

Anonymous said...

Very brave of Commissioner Erik Hansen. We are so frustrated with all of these Adams County scandals. Keep up the good work, Mr. Hansen.

malloy, commerce city said...

I am sure the commerce city population really does not care that council gets a very small retirement benefit.
Lets reward those who stick their necks out.
Golf benefit? again no one really cares. I am glad someone is using it.

Anonymous said...

GN,
I thought ice cream trucks selling to people were illegal in the city limits. Yet I see them here. Are we not a city of laws?

Anonymous said...

Come on people. We need some more of you to step up to run for CC council!
Time is almost up.

www.c3gov.com/elections.

Petitions are due to the CC city clerk at 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 22

BOR said...

ice cream trucks are just one issue in Commerce City that needs to get a second look.
others include-6 inch weed rule, citizen communication, and pit bull ban.

Hyde said...

"Natale said he doesn't follow Phish — and didn't follow the Grateful Dead in its heyday."

Boring mayor!

sam w. phsh fan said...

Commerce City officials are adamant that they don't have anything against Phishheads.

Prove it, leave the fountains running!

Unitas said...

Phish Atlantic City Fan in Fountain at Tropicana

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zggP7YC57Ms

Good Move CC!

Archer said...

Natale: "But I might have followed the Monkees."

the MONKEES! Come on, don't add to the already troubled imagine of Commerce City!

Anonymous said...

no hippies in our fountains!
will ccpd be patrolling for illegal substances?

Anonymous said...

Hey, dont bash the monkees.
They were great!

Marcus, Commerce City said...

forget the freaky phish fans, I am more scared of the crazy billy graham folks coming on aug 27 & 28

http://www.grahamfestival.org/Festival/schedule_view.aspx?eID=393&cid=32

Ryland said...

Commerce City needs to drain those fountains NOW!
Jesus group coming to Dicks soon will most likely try to use them for baptisms!

Leary in Belle Creek said...

no water for phish fans is all over internet.
nice to send a message to them to go ahead and screw with the fountains.

side note: why let them camp here! why not make them stay in hotel rooms like normal people.
Like the people did for the Mile High Music Festival?

Jasmine, Commerce City said...

Doesn't make sense,

"Commerce City officials are adamant that they don't have anything against Phishheads."

"We are more concerned about what may be placed in the fountains."

Either your not worried because you have nothing against them, or your concerned they are going to put something in the fountain. Can't be both.

Did Commerce City turn off the water features during the MHMF the last 2 years?

Anonymous said...

Christian bashing is ALWAYS okay?

Anonymous said...

say what you want. this is a good move on part of commerce city.
it is just a precaution.

Marcus, Commerce City said...

Billy Graham basing.
Declared that homosexuality is a sin.

Yuri said...

Screw Billy Graham EVANGELISTIC ASSOCIATION concert at Dicks Sporting Goods Park!

http://www.billygraham.org/articlepage.asp?articleid=2050

Erin NW said...

I am with you Yuri!

Anonymous said...

Estelle, you do pick on Tracey alot. She is probably one of the most level headed and constantly involved members on Council. Yes, she wants a Boys and Girls Club, and there is nothing wrong with that! Her so called voting and spending record is also one of the best on Council. And FYI- since you watch everything so closely why do you fail to mention that she was in the hospital for over a month with a broken back when the $72,000 City Manager deal went down. Perhaps you should pick on those that were there and actually voting. We know you dont like her, we just dont know why. She represents the South and has done them proud. She has worked very hard during both of her terms to bring a grocery store to the North. She will be great at the State House, regardless of what you say. Sorry, I may agree with a few things you say, but constantly picking on the same person sorta limits your credibility.

Anonymous said...

Please Yuri, don't lump all Christians together.
We are individuals as you are. Like us for who we are not what others believe.
I look at each person as an individual.

Estelle Remington said...

Twisting Words

Don't twist what I write to your own agenda. I have long supported Tracy Snyder as a person and still do. My feeling is if one serves on city council they serve the entire community for these past eight years Tracy has voted for millions of dollars of projects designed to benefit south CC only. Shea properties closed the deal for a store up north. I would like to see only the lifetime Golf memberships closed not city council's current use. Watch out, when you start to talk about someones credibility remember a blog is covered by freedom of speech and because you don't agree does not make the other person incredible. It depends on which side of CC you live on and about how deeply one feels about the children living on that side. To watch the taxpayer's money go continually to the south side of CC is very frustrating. Whether, Tracy becomes a State Representative is up to the voters to decide and has nothing to do with what you or I write.

dkeys said...

GN,
Can you please put on here the actual dollars of the surplus and not the percents. The mayor has caused a lot on confusion by his tweets and surplus.

Dustin, Gateway News said...

From Commerce City...

The level of our reserves is determined by the reserves policy, which sets the reserves as a percentage of the budgeted expenditures. When the reserve policy was established, the fund was adjusted to be consistent with the policy. No money has been taken from the city’s reserve accounts since the policy was established. So the reserves declined when our budget declined and have increased again in 2010 & 2011. We are not aware of data prior to 2007. These reserve amounts below are in addition to TABOR.

Commerce City Reserves
2007= $11,760,872.03
2008= $11,547,312.00
2009= $10,620,424.00
2010= $11,046,570.80
2011= $11,079,661.10

Archer said...

well that is a little different from 22 million

dkeys said...

why is it off the budgeted expenditures? why not actual revenue?

pro city 2.0 said...

The Commerce City Reserves Policy is pretty much the standard.

Buffalo Proud said...

I think that ADCO Commish Alice Nichol is happy that the spot light is on ASSessor Reyes!

Wes, Northern Range said...

GN,
Thank you for the reserve info. Make more sense now.

Gateway News Twitter said...

Adams County Commissioner Erik Hansen says, "Yet again the Post editorializes that Gil Reyes needs to step aside. Please call 720.523.6038 or email greyes@adcogov.org to urge him to resign."

http://www.denverpost.com/search/ci_18702214

BOR said...

wait,
why is there no data prior to 2007?

"We are not aware of data prior to 2007."

Don't we have the same finance director in good ole Commerce City?

GOP in CC said...

Reyes has go to resign. Everyone is asking or telling to. Throw in the towel.

Curious in Reunion said...

Where are Skip Fischer and Alice Nichol in all of this Assessor mess?

How come their not asking him to resign?

Anonymous said...

Post Article: "Hansen said he did speak with Fischer — Reyes' predecessor as assessor — and that Fischer "didn't think it was our business to get involved."

Anonymous said...

I want to know why the water district is giving our water away.
Why are they breaking the agreement with the city?
Does Mr Ford have the right to do favors for his son at our expense?

pro city 2.0 said...

Great article in Post about Commerce City:
http://www.denverpost.com/legislature/ci_18713947

Wes, Northern Range said...

great article?
"Glen Murray, who unsuccessfully sued the city to stop his land from being annexed, is thrilled that the mayor is term-limited in November."

Anonymous said...

where are there "Million-dollar homes"?

pro city 2.0 said...

The parade of homes in CC are around a million.

Kyle said...

yes Commerce City keep up the good work. Just need to get development around victory crossings and the dog track and some more in the north.
But yes you are on the right track!

dkeys said...

Commerce City had limo for each council member in DC to pick them up?!
You got to be kidding me! who the hell do they think they are!
If that why they give such great deal to the city staff too?

In the Know said...

From the Denver Post article: "Murray, the Commerce City resident who can't wait for Natale to leave office, ticked off a litany of injustices he believes Commerce City officials are guilty of, including offering tax rebates, annexing reluctant property owners and giving city workers raises in a tough economy."

I don't think Murray is a Commerce City resident. But is on water board, that was an important piece left out.

Cheo, Commerce City said...

Post's Lynn Bartels apology article for herself calling Commerce City "stinky-town": http://www.denverpost.com/legislature/ci_18713947

Anonymous said...

It makes perfect sense to me why the Dog Track negotiations were done in secret. Mayor is right, they would have jacked the price up.

King of Olive Street said...

brick intersections in old Derby, better known as the redevelopment of Derby.

Anonymous said...

Bartels article: "As Natale zipped along East 56th Avenue, he was asked about an unattractive industrial lot with portable office buildings, the very kind of eyesore that gives Commerce City a bad name."

Who asked him this, I thought it was a tour for Bartels only? Maybe it was a setup question?

Unitas said...

You need industry to be a financial success. NO PROBLEM at all what Commerce City is doing.
On the right track. Keep up the good work.

Close to the Situation said...

Perfect Slogan: "this isn't your father's Commerce City"
I Love it.
City should use this all of the time as part of their "redefine campaign".

Core Comments said...

I am a little disappointed in Denver Post article. I am glad the information is out there. But it looks like the Denver Post went out of their way to feature the worst picture with caption (New homes near Denver International Airport contrast with the older homes in town.)

Not what I would consider older homes in town.

Ollie said...

"Colorado Springs turned off a third of its streetlights to help cope with a budget crisis."

In Commerce City they just let the lights go out and don't fix them. See how many out lights you can count on 104th.

No to Unions in CC! said...

city workers have received raises every year! so STOP complaining.
NO UNIONS IN CC!!!!!!!!!

jax, cc said...

I hope this comes off right.

I would much rather live in a place that has industry and lots of money then a really nice area with no industry and is broke.

What do you all think?

Anonymous said...

"Murray, the Commerce City resident who can't wait for Natale to leave office"

Doesn't this guy live in Brighton?

blessed in cc said...

Commerce City welcoming industry is nothing new. City always knew it was a great revenue maker. The north is where the concern comes into play.
I just hope the new grocery store in the north will be the needed spark for much needed development.

Anonymous said...

Interesting Natale does not mention that for the most part all of the accomplishments in the article were started before he moved to the City , was on City Council or that very little has happened since he became mayor and Flannery was hired - the fault of the economy more than anything - not his - but be honest Paul and quit trying to take credit for things you had very little or no part in. A good economy and the Ford Council and VanDeventer made most of the positives in the article happen - truth is truth people.

gina, cc said...

mayorcc: "Thank you so much for visiting Commerce City and writing such a great article. Nice to be recognized in a positive light."

The part about Murray and Mayor is just written off because he is crazy?

Anonymous said...

Commerce City is the best place in the metro area.
I would compare anyone books, with ours.
We also have the best people too.

Also Blessed in CC! said...

Commerce City has GREAT mix. Yes there is industry, BUT has a world class Soccer Team (The Rapids). Wonderful places in the North to live. Great loyal people in the South and most important, a PLAN OF ACTION for the FUTURE!

Archer said...

Only Commerce City staff and current Current Commerce City council would think a article that contains allegations of corruption and we only have some money because we are industry is a great article.

Truly the emperor has no cloths.

Anonymous said...

In the Denver Post Today: Gritty Commerce City laughing all the way to the bank.

I great piece. A must read.

http://www.denverpost.com/legislature/ci_18713947

Anonymous said...

So is Lynn Bartels all forgiven now?

GOP in CC said...

Read the complete report to the Colorado State Board of Equalization on Gil Reyes’ activities

http://www.scribd.com/doc/62644985/August-16-2011-Report-on-Adams-County-Assessor-Gil-Reyes-to-the-Colorado-State-Board-of-Equalization

GOP in CC said...

Just in case any of you want to contact your Adams County Elected Officials for any reason:

Adams County Assessor

Gil Reyes
greyes@adcogov.org
Office: 720.523.6038

Adams County Board of Commisioners

W. R. “Skip” Fischer
Office: 720.523.6100
sfischer@adcogov.org

Alice J. Nichol
Office: 720.523.6100
anichol@adcogov.org

Erik Hansen
Office: 720.523.6100
ehansen@adcogov.org

Anonymous said...

Funny how Noel Busk, a Democrat himself most famous for holding on to $400,000 of illegal drug money for drug kingpin Dan Tang is running the recall for Adams County Assessor Gil Reyes.

http://blogs.westword.com/latestword/2011/02/operation_fortune_cookie_dante_carbone_suspect_dan_tang.php

Wes, Northern Range said...

Seems straight forward, either Gil Reyes resigns or the voters will try to recall him. Adams County always seems to be in the headlines for the wrong reasons.

Bud said...

Commerce City is in such a better place then it used to be. I remember a time when it was horrible. It will take lots and lots of time. But they are headed on the right track.

Anonymous said...

The post story is good for a outsiders piece. But for those who actually know something about the city (us in the 1% to 10%) get really pissed.

In the Know said...

wonder how Snyder, Teter, and Bullock feel about mayor's article. Were they not some of the council that were taking the limos in DC?

Anonymous said...

Gritty Commerce City laughing all the way to the bank?

Look at Historic General Fund Revenues Page 6? hmmmmm.

http://commercecity.civicweb.net/FileStorage/49D030CB9520482A8135B0DEE254AD4D-WorkspaceIA%201%20LRFP%20Recommendations.pdf

Close to the Situation said...

Mayor throws Rene, Tracey and Kathy under the bus (or should I say Limo). GREAT ARTICLE!
Still messed up that they each took a limo in DC?

I am sure Pro-Casso will love it. Something against Tracey!

Wes, Northern Range said...

Good point, why is this a great article. Because we are no longer corrupt?
That makes us great now?

Vikki, Commerce City said...

Coffman maybe on to something here with English only.
How much would it save Commerce City if they only did the City News in English?

malloy, commerce city said...

Oh my God!

Natale said one of the first things he did as mayor was to end the practice of having limousines waiting for City Council members when they arrived in Washington, D.C., for business. He was stunned the first time it happened after he was elected to the council.

"They argued that it was cheaper than a taxi," he said. "Well, not when you have a limo for each council member."

How could they have done this with, know the people the represent are struggling.

I would like to know, WHO on council currently did this!

They should all be ashamed of themselves.

Stella, Comm City said...

RE: DP article Gritty Commerce City laughing all the way to the bank

So much for Commerce City council norms: Praise in public, criticize in private.

In the Know said...

Natale said one of the first things he did as mayor was to end the practice of having limousines waiting for City Council members when they arrived in Washington, D.C., for business. He was stunned the first time it happened after he was elected to the council.

"They argued that it was cheaper than a taxi," he said. "Well, not when you have a limo for each council member."


lets all just hope no one is smart enough to figure out cc mayor Natale is talking about cc current council members Rene Bullock, Tracy Snyder and Kathy Teter!

Anonymous said...

Natalie took a limo when he was a council member.

jax, cc said...

Response to: lets all just hope no one is smart enough to figure out cc mayor Natale is talking about cc current council members Rene Bullock, Tracy Snyder and Kathy Teter!

Looks like Monday night Commerce City council meeting might be a little awkward.

Thad, Commerce City said...

I am still trying to figure out what the main purpose of the Post story "Gritty Commerce City laughing all the way to the bank" is?

Expose the past/current corruption? Brag to other cities like Brighton? Show Water Director Murray as crazy?

I know Bartel (writer) had to go to Commerce City as part of an apology for calling the city stinky.

It is just really confusing.

Anonymous said...

GN,
I heard that Commerce City URA has already decided to make the old Dog Track a open air shopping and entertainment center.

Before they even talked to any of the stake holders that are around the area.

Please keep my post (aug 19th) and report on this if it happens.

dkeys said...

so what! if Commerce City URA wants a open air shopping and entertainment center, who cares!
A lot better then what is there now!
Or do you prefer more that that great cash making industry?

Ginger, My 2 cents said...

Bottom Line,
Commerce City is getting better.

Still a ways to go? OF COURSE. But still much better then the past.

Anonymous said...

Yes Commerce City is a mush better place. Thanks to all who had the vision to move this city forward.

Lets hope we can continue on this path.

Anonymous said...

The question is on September 1, will the the citizens get our money back for the city manager's house?

Anonymous said...

from post: "Beasley said Commerce City, once known as a haven for "backroom deals," has sought public input as it changed."
is he referring to the ford - bullock reign? GN, do you still have the video of bullock making up stuff, asking for a recall basically because he lived in city longer?

Core Comments said...

Since Commerce City is Laughing all the way to the bank, can we assume that they are going to keep the free trash service?
Only make sense right?

Gateway News said...

Commerce City Residential Garage Burglaries...

The Commerce City Police Department has observed an increase in residential burglaries in the month of August. The majority of theses burglaries are crimes of opportunity where residents are leaving there garage doors open and unattended. Items that have been taken are tools, motorized bikes, and bicycles.

These crimes can be prevented with some simple prevention tips:
• Never leave your garage door open if you are not in the garage or front yard, it is easy for someone to walk in and take something when no one is looking.
• Do not leave bikes or other items in your front yard overnight.
• Keep the service door between your garage and residence locked.
• Write down the serial number of items in your garage and keep it in a safe place.
• Do not leave wallets, purses, keys, laptops, or other valuables inside of the vehicles that are parked in your garage.

To see what kind of reports have been taken in your area you can access this information by logging on to the website www.crimereports.com

As a reminder, if you see any suspicious activities please report them by calling 911.

JoannS. Reunion said...

Of course Commerce City is a better place then before, that is what happens with time.

A lot of things get better with time naturally. Cell phones, Cars, TVs.

Denver LODO is much better then 20 years ago.

It was not only the vision of this current council or staff, it was a long time coming.

Rapids stadium idea was a long time ago, this in return initiated other things to happen.

The idea of the northern range was even before that.

For someone to take credit for now being successful is just wrong, dead wrong.

Belle Creek Obsever said...

I might be wrong, but what has really happened in the last 4 years in good ole cc?
King Soopers and Cummins in the North.
City bought dog track, and they renamed the stadium area.
Derby got a Dentist, Taco Place and a expensive brick intersection.
Other then that a whole lot of talk and consultants.
Maybe the celebration of we are the best ever was premature.

Anonymous said...

Mayor Paul Natale should have never called out the past council for the limousine thing in DC. Not very nice at all!

dkeys said...

Past council, there are 3 current ones now that he was talking about.
Rene, Tracey and Kathy. I am shocked Pro-Casso has not yet jumped on Tracey about this.

Anonymous said...

Response to Mayor Paul Natale should have never called out the past council for the limousine thing in DC.

I am ecstatic that Mayor Paul did this. NOW we ALL KNOW! The way it should be.

It really has made who I will vote for in 2012 for house district 32 clearer.

Nancy, Commerce City said...

ecstatic that CC Council wasted god knows how much money on limo service as if they were rock stars?

I am DISAPPOINTED!

Marcus, Commerce City said...

like a lot of you I have mixed feeling on the DP article of Commerce City.

I don't think it was the best piece of written work, but does contain some great insight.

I am just glad it is something kinda positive. Usually Denver Press only covers us if there is a murder or scandal.

Anonymous said...

GN,
Do we pay sales tax on the Commerce City owned Bison Grill?
If so, is that not double dipping on the part of Commerce City?

cadence said...

each one had private limo?

good for commerce city mayor. call out those tax payer wasting jerks!
the 3 on council now should resign!

Anonymous said...

Natale said one of the first things he did as mayor was to end the practice of having limousines waiting for City Council members when they arrived in Washington, D.C., for business. He was stunned the first time it happened after he was elected to the council.

Natale was a council member for 2 years prior to being the mayor, why not address it then? Why wait until he was mayor?

Brent Keesley said...

Any one who knows anything in Commerce City knows that we are doing well because of our strong industrial base.

Many did not know about the limousines in Washington. This is very disappointing.

Just because we have money does not mean we can live like royalty.

Those who are currently on council and participated in this need to explain themselves and apologize.

Cheo, Commerce City said...

I say the currently seated Commerce City Council Members who had the private limo service in DC need to forfeit their discretionary funds for the next year!

Wes, Northern Range said...

I agree Cheo, I AGREE!

Anonymous said...

I asked about the limos and was told that the council members had been told by the ex city mngr & mayor that it ended up being less because it was a service.
The only thing, I believe, the past council members did wrong, was to not look further and find out if it was true.
I guess Natale did, and found it wasn't cheeper, but cost a lot more.
Alot of times people believe what they are told, sadly trust isn't all it is cracked up to be.

Anonymous said...

CC+CHINA=GOOD,
I guess you believe that is you repeat over and over a lie, people will believe it.
For some I'm sure it is true.
It has been cleared up several times at council meetings.
The city did spend a lot to have anyhone go to China,or having the chinese here. Making up stuff gets old for people who listen.

Anonymous said...

Someone should ask Ford about the Hummer limo he took from the airport in Vegas, when he went to that conference while he was mayor.
He may lie, but told me about it right after he got back, he said "it was so cool!"

Anonymous said...

For those people who have not had the opportunity to visit Washington DC, the limo sounds like a bigger deal than it is. Most people get around in taxis or smaller sized limos. The limo was a nice car, not a big many person limo. It was approximately the same price as a taxi, but the limo driver knew what time to pick up the council people- not like waiting for a taxi. Natale is making a bigger deal out of this then he should, just like he makes it sound like he did all of the nice development. It was started before his time- he is just taking the credit.

Anonymous said...

Commerce City can use the soccer stadium several times a year at no cost. Why they don't do that- who knows!
Oh I think it was used for a council retreat once.

Anonymous said...

good point anonymous - why did blow hard Natale wait until he was mayor to address the limo issue ( if this really happened - sounds exaggerated to me) and why bring it up now on his way out - he is a very petty and little man (figuratively not physically obviously) he obviously hasn't missed any of all the free meals you get as a council member.

dkeys said...

love the site. great shot of SACFD.

Anonymous said...

Monday is it. Last day to turn in signatures.
Did anyone else go for mayor in Commerce City?

CBR said...

How is tax on Medical Marijuana considered a “sin tax”?

I am not for this.

GN,
Are you going to start a new section to endorse candidates and ballot questions?

Archer said...

"reserves is determined by the reserves policy, which sets the reserves as a percentage of the budgeted expenditures."

So mayor was bragging that it went from 17% to 23%. That means are expenditures went up.

Something to brag about?

Anonymous said...

How dreadful of Mr. Natale to so disrespect his fellow councilpersons. By doing so, he brought more disrespect to the city. Yes, it was a limo "service". No, it was never a limo of any kind. It was a small towncar that usually 3 or 4 people with luggage jammed into. If the council went together as a group, it was a no frills white passenger van. It is doubtful that the tiny business that was used probably didn't even own a limo. It was one guy and his brother. It is highly doubtful that most of the council have never even been in a limo.

Anonymous said...

Did Natale have to bash the other councilmembers AND the city of Denver? He'll leave his seat with no friends and no respect anywhere.

Anonymous said...

I heard these were not really limos as what most people in Colorado wold consider to be a limo. A limo on the East coast is more like a 4 door town car.
It just comes off as 9 full stretched limos waiting for the council and their entourage coming to town.

Anthony, Denver Proud said...

I see Mayor of Commerce City. It is the city of Denver that is junky. Looks like you win!

Your lucky Bartels made a slip in judgement with that tweet, Otherwise you would never get a apology story out of her.

Your pompous.

Your staff wants to be Denver so bad it comes off as sad!

Anonymous said...

The council and staff of Commerce City are always talking about regionalism and how important it is.

So why attack other cities saying that your better then them in such a difficult time.

Sounds mean.

malloy, commerce city said...

I don't think those were "little" town cars. I think they were full Limousines and the council who are still on should forfeit their discretionary funds to pay back the citizens.

I still say they should be ashamed.

Archer said...

Commerce City Mayor should have said

Na-na Na-na Boo-boo we have more money then you do!

Wes, Northern Range said...

commerce city laughs all the way to the bank. Yes, and tonight dont listen to them talk about how they are going to close and kinda of a budget gap. bills more then income.

dkeys said...

who does cc mayor hate more, hippies or corruption?
I say corruption. what do you think?

Anonymous said...

I can personally vouch those were not the full stretch limos that you see in here is Colorado. They were nothing more then a car service. No different then a taxi only a little bit bigger for suitcases.

Buzz said...

My conclusion is that yes, industry will pay the bills. We always knew this. It was one of the main reasons why Commerce City is Commerce City. To keep Denver from taking the rich tax dollars that were coming out of Suncor.

The question that needs to be asked, is what NEW industry has come to the area?

Has there been a big bump in NEW industry?

«Oldest ‹Older   201 – 400 of 589   Newer› Newest»