Summary of Meeting Minutes - April 20th, 2023

ROSEDALE HARVARD GULCH NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
 GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING AGENDA – April 20, 2023  6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Harvard Gulch Recreation Center – Game Room

I.   Call to Order 6:35PM

II.   Meeting Attendance

Community: Tracey Pavelko, Kathy Darnell, Jesse Lopez, Fran Montoya, Jackie Purmort, Dave Sauve, George Potts, Bev Cox, Laura Flyr, Mikey Ignacio , Kellen Cross, Paige Brown, Todd Kanaster.

Board Members: Tom Montoya, Dana McGlone, Jane Potts, Katie Rice, Grant Brown, Natalie Dorshimer, Kevin Riley

III.  Approval of March Minutes – Virginia Eiseman (minutes sent via email by Tom Montoya)

There was a motion and second to approve the minutes.  The motion passed.

IV.  Approval of Treasurer Report – Kevin Riley

There was a motion and a second t approve the Treasurer Report.  The motion passed.

Starting balance: $1,799.99

Ending balance: $1,244.12

V.    Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann

Our neighborhood is currently in District 6 and will now switch to District 7.

If interested in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) for affordable housing, you can see how to make it easier and make them fit better into the current architecture of Denver at Denvergov.org/planning. Click on the plans in progress to see recommendations from the committee.

Councilman Kashmann is working with Councilman Jolon Clark (District 6) and Councilman Kendra Black (District 4) to clear up issues and change ordinance regarding large vehicle parking for inappropriate parking in the neighborhoods. i.e. semi’s parking in our neighborhoods.

Denver police department will be implanting a new program for stolen cars: DenverTrack. If you register your car Denvergov.org/denvertrack, police can access to your onboard GPS system to find your vehicle if it’s stolen.

He also addressed deteriorating walkways in parks. Parks and Rec has started walking parks and are beginning to estimate what the process will cost. Our new councilman will need to follow up with them.

23-213 Land Use Bill. This gives the state the ability to override the local zoning laws in cities throughout the state. Any single unit property in the state would be allowed to accommodate duplexes up to 6-plexes. Current ADUs allowed up to 1000 sqft, and this would increase. So, much larger ADU’s. It is a well-intentioned bill to help with housing crisis, but individual cities would no longer have the ability to make decisions for themselves. If you don’t like this bill, it is recommended that you contact state legislators or Governor Polis to give them your opinion.

Question from Bev Cox: Do we have to pay for a park permit for this summer’s event? According to Councilman Kashmann, we shouldn’t. RNO’s don’t have to pay those fees. RHGNA to contact Paul and Brent at his office.

VI.   City Council Candidates Flor Alvidrez and Nick Campion

Flor: Spoke to the group about how she grew up in Denver and was heavily involved in helping creat infrastructure of the city. Her vision was “Every Denverite can breathe clean air and everyone can have a home.”

VII.   INC Report –  Jane Potts (restarted meeting at 7:07PM)

If you have a nomination for outstanding neighbor, you can nominate them at: INC Awards Nomination

New Swansea neighborhood has secured 120 locations for real-time air monitoring (!). They report electronically to a central site. Readings get sent to the company that’s polluting and to an individual’s phone. This was created because if Suncorp has a spike in pollution, they only have to report it if it lasts for over an hour. So, they’re being doing flairs for 50 minutes. This should help with more and better regulations.

Meetings located on YouTube.

a. Viva Streets Update

This will be over 4 Sundays where Broadway and Welton will be closed to traffic. The first one will be on Mother’s Day. The committee invited neighborhoods to do something fun for folks. RHGNA will be at the intersection of Bayaud and Broadway. More information on the INC website soon.

b. Council District 7 Runoff Election – Candidate Forum

RHGNA and other RNO’s are hosting another runoff Godsman May 3, 6:30 for City Council District 6. The debates will also be live on YouTube. *Note this was canceled later in the week due to Nick Campion dropping out of the race*

 VIII.   Denver Police Update Report – Grant Brown

District 3 meeting was last week. DPD updates

●      We are the sub-division 313 within the District 3.

●      Property crime over this last month is up 20.7% in our area (313). Storage units/garages are being hit hard. It is suggested that you save the serial numbers for the expensive items in these areas and be sure to lock everything up. If you have a charge cord visible in your car, make sure everyone can see nothing is connected to it.

●      Catalytic convertors still being stolen, so try to get covers if you can and don’t leave your car out. You can also write your vin on your catalytic convertor, so it can’t be resold.

●      Free club giveaway for vehicles – Sat, April 22 at 11AM (while supplies last) at Advanced Auto Parts (2319 S federal blvd).

●      April 26th 6PM neighborhood watch training will be held at District 3 (University and I-25).

●      Monthly coffee with a cop will be on May 3 from 10AM-12PM at Nixon’s on south Pearl.

IX.   New Business

1.     Board Elections (General Meeting at 7PM; adjourned at 7:07)

a.     Vice President - Jane Potts – 2 year term (nominated and elected)

b.     Treasurer – Kevin Riley to fill remainder of vacant term (nominated and elected)

c.      Community Liaison – Katie Rice (nominated and elected)

d.     Business Liaison – Natalie Dorshimer (nominated and elected)

e.     Communications – Dana McGlone (nominated and elected)

f.      At-large – Grant Brown (nominated and elected)

All folks above were elected unanimously to the board, since there were no challengers.

2.     Recognition of Paul Kashmann for his service RHGNA

Thanked by the board and members of the community for his exceptional service to our neighborhood and RHGNA.

3.     Plant sale

At the CSU extension building May 20th and 21st rain or shine. They will have master gardeners on hand for questions.

X.   Old Business

1.   Summer Event Update – if you want to join in planning meetings, email communications@rhgna.org

a.        Change of Date to July 22 6:30-9:30 start

b.       Items Completed to date

• Park Permit Application - $130.00

• Event Insurance - $285.00

• Portable Toilets Rented – $360.00

• Band Booked

c.        Items to be done

• Apply for OSPE permit

• Contract with Food Trucks

• Contract with Vendors

• Contract a Band

• Fundraising to pay for event expenses

2.   St Paul’s

Next meeting will be May 2 at 6:30. If you have questions or concerns about the High School, you can email us at communications@rhgna.org and/or info@rhgna.org      

XI.   Adjournment – Next Meeting TBD (7:30PM)

Summary of Meeting Minutes - March 16th, 2023

ROSEDALE HARVARD GULCH NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
FEBRUARY MEETING AGENDA

March 16, 2023 from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Harvard Gulch Recreation Center – Game Room

I.   Call to Order

II.   Meeting Attendance – In person attendance:  Cathy Darnell, Grant Brown (at Large), Ginny Eiseman (secretary), Dana McGlone (Communications), Jane Potts (Vice-President), Tom Montoya (President), Pam Prizel.  Zoom attendance: Natalie Dorshmer (Business), Fran Montoya, Michael Ignacio, Katie Rice (Community Liaison), Kevin Riley (Treasurer), Kevin Beck, Jess Hastings, Sarah K.  Community Guests: Councilman Kashmann (via Zoom), candidates for city council- Guy Padget and Nick Campion.

III.  Approval of February Minutes – There was a motion and second to approve the minutes.  The motion passed.

IV.  Approval of Treasurer Report – There was a motion and a second to approve the Treasurer Report.  The motion passed.

V.  Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann - DPD rolled out Denver Track program to reduce car theft by providing tracking a stolen car thought GPS program initiated by the owner.  Parks and Rec are working on finishing the accessible trails through Harvard Gulch.  The voters approved a measure to pay for sidewalks through a tax system which the council will modify to address the need for a more equitable rate for the Denver homeowners.  There are about 1,300 migrants left out of 5,500 that arrived mostly from Venezuela this winter.  This has put a higher demand on all city services/shelters for a population undocumented status that prevents the means to get to work and apply for assistance. Leadership training is being made available to people interested in improving their RNO’s.

VI.   INC Report – On May 3rd several RNO’s will sponsor a councilman forum for the persons who qualify for the runoff election at the Goodson Elementary. The city is proposing permanent guidelines for outdoor dining that was started during the pandemic. The neighborhood response through their RNO have halted the plans for I25 development and Broadway Transportaion plan until further consensus can be reached. VIVA Street will be starting this year (closing temporarily of designated streets to allow pedestrian traffic and neighborhood planned activities).  INC is back to in person meeting and their Awards Ceremony.

VII.  Member-at-Large Denver Police Liaison Report – Grant Brown – Grant Brown gave update on the Denver Track program and the Denver Academy for young people.  DPD’s crime stopper tip- do not have anything of value in view in your locked car.

VIII.  New Business

1.  Board Elections: Deferred to the next board meeting in April due to needing at least 20 community members present either in person or on zoom to vote for the board.  This meeting had 15 community members present.

2.  Closure of Harvard Gulch Parking Lot for Solar Project Installation: Tom Montoya gave an update of the project that has been part of the City plan to reduce carbon emissions by using the city initiative City Climate Protection Fund to build solar panels in parking lots on city property.  Harvard Gulch and Montbello will be the first to do this.  Harvard Gulch panels are projected to generate 422,628 KWh annually.  The building of the panels will cause the Recreation Center parking lot to be closed March 31 to April 27 (Partial closure), April 30 to May 22 (full closure), and May 23 to July 19 (partial closure).

3.  Guy Padgett and Nick Campion gave short speeches of their platform to be elected to City Council.

IX.  Old Business

1.  Summer Event Update: The date had to be in July due to conflicts in the park with August athletic events. The date of the community concert is July 22nd.  Expenses already paid are park permit ($130.00), event insurance ($285.00), portable toilets ($360.00).  Items that need to be done are apply for the OSPE permit, contract with food trucks, contract with vendors, contract a band, and fundraising to pay for the event expenses.

Action Plan: Have flyers distributed in the neighborhood to announce the need for election of board members and the upcoming concert. Board members agreed to assist the neighborhood distribution.  Dana will get the flyers prepared.

Action Plan: Conduct separate meetings to organize the July event.  The first meeting will be held in March.  Emails will notify members of place, time, date.

X.  Adjournment – 7:28PM. Next General Membership Board Meeting – April 20, 2023 at 6:30PM – Harvard Gulch Recreation Center game room. Also can attend via Zoom.

Summary of Meeting Minutes - February 16th, 2023

ROSEDALE HARVARD GULCH NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION
FEBRUARY MEETING AGENDA

February 16, 2023 from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Harvard Gulch Recreation Center – Game Room

I.   Call to Order

II.   Meeting Attendance – Tom Montoya, Dana McGlone, Grant Brown and Natalie Dorshimer present.  Jane Potts and Ginny Eiseman Absent.  There was a total of 15 people in attendance at the meeting.  A quorum was not established to hold the General Membership meeting and Board election.  The Board adjourned the General Membership meeting and convened a regular board meeting

III.  Approval of January Minutes – There was a motion and second to approve the minutes.  The motion passed 4-0

IV.  Approval of Treasurer Report – There was a motion and a second to approve the Treasurer Report.  The motion passed 4-0.

V.  Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann - Councilman Kashmann was not present 

VI.   INC Report – Tom Montoya read the report Jane Potts provided to the members present.  The report included information on the VIVA Streets Denver.  The program will close Broadway and Welton Streets to car traffic from Alameda to 5 Points.  The dates will be May 14, June 4m July 9, and August 6, from 8:00am to 2:00pm.  Several RNOs are planning family friendly events.  Rosedale should be involved.  Rosedale has been invited to help plan and produce the Annual Broadway Halloween Parade with other District 7 RNOs.

VII.  Member-at-Large Denver Police Liaison Report – Grant Brown – Denver police is staffing an Outreach Case Coordinator.  The Outreach Case Coordinator (OCC) program is part of DPD's commitment to approaching public safety services with a focus on helping to address the needs of our residents. This is accomplished by providing long-term connections to available services and supports. Clients could include community members who are experiencing substance misuse, behavioral health issues, homelessness or needing housing system navigation, immigrant and refugee system navigation, human services navigation, and many others.  The District 3 station hosts a Citizens’ Advisory Board the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:00pm.  The meetings are held at District 3.

VIII.  New Business – The Board voted to approve the following Nominations for Board election to be held on March 16, 2023.  Please note that this slate of candidates if different from the February slate.  This slate reflects changes in positions that will make the board more effective and results in two new members filling the Treasurer and Community Liaison position.  Natalie Dorshimer will move to the Business Liaison position and Dana McGlone will move the Communications position.    Todd Kanaster has volunteered to assist Dana McGlone with the Communications duties.  Todd, Dana and I will be meeting with Amanda to transition the Communications duties.

1.  Board Elections:

a.  Vice President - Jane Potts

b.  Treasurer – Kevin Riley

c.  Community Liaison – Katie Rice

d.  Business Liaison – Natalie Dorshimer

e.  Communications – Dana McGlone

f.  At-large – Grant Brown 

IX.  Old Business

1.  Announcement of Summer Concert

X.  Adjournment – Next Meeting – March 16, 2023 – Harvard Gulch Recreation Center

RHGNA Board Elections

On June 18th the General Membership was held for the purpose of conducting elections of Board Members. This meeting was postponed in February of 2022, due to the lack of a quorum.

Here are the results of the election:

President - Tom Montoya

Treasurer - Maria Hargett

Business Liaison - Dana McGlone

Community Liaison - Natalie Dorshimer

Member -at- Large - Grant Brown

Communications - Amanda Biffle

Board Members not up for Election: Vice President Jane Potts / Secretary Virginia Eiseman

Summary of Meeting Minutes - March 17th, 2022

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

March 17, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting held on Zoom

l.  Call to Order:  Tom Montoya called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM

ll. Meeting Attendance:  Tom Montoya (President), Ryan Lake (Treasurer), Ginny Eiseman (Secretary), Natalie Dorshimer (Community Liaison).  Absent Board members are Maria Hargett, Jane Potts, Mike Lapp, Mitch Larson. Community Guests are Councilman Paul Kashmann and his assistant Brent. 

lll. Approval of January Minutes.  Approved.

lv.  Approval of Treasurer Report.  Approved.  Most recent payments of $100 for INC leaves a balance of $2,827.00.  

v.  Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann.  He will be touring the high school renovations at Rosedale on March 18th and will be available for the community event on April 23rd. There is a hearing for marijuana lounge license which Councilman Clark is opposing due to ongoing community complaints with the owners who currently run a hookah bar on that site.  The Residents’ Academy is now up and going whose purpose is to strengthen RNO’s. District 6 has $20,000 available for community building projects such as concerts, food banks, outreach with a $1,500 limit for each project.  On June 20th there will be a Sustainability Event at Washington Park with speakers and booths exploring various sustainable projects in the city.  The council is also finalizing plans for ADU’s zoning requirements and affordable housing mandate for any new construction.

vi. INC Report.  No report.

vii.  Old Business.

a.     Central Denver Classical High School (Rosedale School)

1.     Tom Montoya reports that community members are all invited on April 23rd at 10:00 AM to witness signing of the neighborhood agreement plan to be held at the school.

b.     Summer Concert Update.

Tom Montoya has filed the permit and purchase the TULIP Insurance.  The Board discussed and agreed that pulling a permit for alcohol is going to be too expensive.  

c.       Bands   Various bands were discussed, and no final decision made at this time.

viii.  New Business

a.     Interim Appointment of Board Members. 

Motion to start interim board member assignments until elections which is to approve Maria Hargett for Treasurer position until term expires in 2023, Dana McGlone for Business Chair for one year, Tom Montoya to fill in for Communications duties, Natalie Dorshimer to continue as Community Liaison, Tom Montoya continues as President.  –Approved. 

b.     Next Meeting will be held April 21st which hopefully will be held in person at the Rec Center.

Ix.  Meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM

Summary of Meeting - February 17, 2022

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

Summary of Meeting  on February 17, 2022

Meeting on Zoom

This meeting was called to order to order by Tom Montoya at 7:00 PM.  Persons who attended were Tom Montoya, Maria Hargett, Ginny Eiseman, Jane Potts, Ryan Lake, Natalie Dorshmire who are on the Board of RHGNA; community guests were Councilman Paul Kashmann, Scott Balderman, and Leah.  Rosedale community members were Gregg McGlone, Grant Brown, Jo Greenwood, and Dana McGlone.  

The primary focus for this meeting was to elect board members.  This was not possible due to   failure to have a quorum.  The Board plans to defer election and set a date for elections in the near future.

There were not enough board members to have motions approved.  Therefore, this report is a summary of information provided at this zoom call on February 17, 2022.

Councilman Paul Kashmann gave update on the following- The Rosedale school is now named St. John Paul the Great.  He will attend the April 23rd neighborhood agreement with the representatives of the new high school. The city is working on redrawing districts with approval by March 28th which will not be effective until the 2023 elections. Dog park proposed for Veterans Park.  Schlessman YMCA has plans for changes in their property to include retail, housing, and YMCA building.  There are not enough drivers for the city to keep up with trash pick up schedules.  Leadership Meeting with various neighborhood organizations has started of which Tom Montoya is a member.  Kmart property on Monaco and Evans has begun their redevelopment projects. 

Jane Potts reports that 12 neighborhoods that are most impacted by climate change will be chosen to start the city’s sustainable plan.

Scott Balderman - The Denver School Board is working on developing a policy to fix the culture which in the past has not been positive.  Denver schools are the largest land holder and largest employer of the city.  The high school students initiated a climate action plan which is supported by the Board. 

Natalie reports that construction of Parks Maintenance building will impact some of the community garden and construction has begun.

Permit submitted for June 18th community concert.  Another permit cannot be filed until after the June concert.  Tentative plan for an August 20th concert.  Maria is working on vendors. 

Leah reports that Parks and Recreation are going to offer Fun Day Fridays at Harvard Gulch Recreation to promote programs such as girls’ volleyball, pickleball basics, urban homestead. 

The next RHGNA board meeting will be held on March 17th at 7:00 PM.  Tom will see if the meeting could be held either at the rec center or CSU Extension. 

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association Board Meeting Minutes - December 16, 2022

l. Call to Order:  Tom Montoya called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM

ll. Meeting Attendance:  Tom Montoya (President), Jane Potts (Vice-President), Ginny Eiseman (Secretary), Natalie Dorshimer (Community Liaison), Mike Lapp (Communications).  Absent board Members – Maria Hargett (Business), Ryan Lake (Treasurer) Mitch Larson (At large).  Community Members- Pam Pritzel, Todd Kanaster, Craig T., Clifford Peterson.  Guests- Brent Fahrberger (representing Councilman Kashmann), Tag Mosholder (District Attorney)

lll. Approval of November Minutes.  Approved

iv. Approval of Treasurer Report.  Approved.  Current balance is $2,969.85.  One donation of $15.00.  Expense of $18.07.

V. Report by Brent Fahrberger for Councilman Kashmann.  Insomnia Café issues are being addressed through DPD and Denver City Council.  City Council has approved funding to assist RNO’s development, Sustainable 6 headed by Alice Buff is explained in Councilman Kashmann’s newsletter, Council passed flavor ban for e-cigs but was overruled by the mayor. Will be looking at additional funding to curtail underage e-cigs with enforcement plan. 

VI.  INC Report- Jane Potts.  The by-laws were approved that include diversity, inclusion, equity.  Topics for future meetings- January is Land Trust.  February is Limit Team Members.  March is elections of board members.  April is Safe Open Space.  

VII. Old Business

a.     Resolution of Café Insomnia Issues.  Todd Kanaster throughout the months has reported several problems such as gun shots and noise until 4:00 AM.  He reports response from DPD and City Council has been positive.  The council did pass an ordinance that all hookah bars close at midnight.  This hopefully will stop patrons from going to hookah bars after the bars close at 2:00 PM to continue meeting up with drinking in the parking lot and socializing in the hookah bar.  Todd reports that there have not been any shots fired or disturbances recently. He will continue to report regarding if these new enforcement changes are effective in the months ahead.

b.     Rosedale School Update.  Tom Montoya shared recent requests from the Catholic HS for added parking spaces, so, and they are going to see if the property for the community garden and Denver Parks facility would be available for this use.   After some discussion, most likely the garden and park facility is not available to be used for parking spaces now or in the future.  However, RHGNA will monitor this recent request.  The Board Members present at this meeting expressed that this proposal was never part of the working agreement and not something the neighborhood community would approve. There is a meeting with the school on January 3, 2022. 

VII.  New Business

a.     Discussion of alternative voting methods for February Board Elections.  Jane discussed how this looks with INC.  They use Survey Monkey.  Mike Lapp will study this and report back.  Ginny Eiseman will send slate of open positions for the February elections.

b.     Future Meetings.  Continue Zoom meeting format.  Next meeting is January 20, 2022, at 7 PM.

c.     District Attorney.  Tag Mosholder works in District Court with Adult Felony cases.  He reports changes after unrest from the George Floyd incident. The agency has changed PR Bonds and offering more personal recognizance.  It is too early to tell if this change is a cause of the increase in crime in Denver.  Driving without a license and insurance is the most frequent reason for being arrested.  There continues to be a log jam with sending persons for mental health evaluation.  Half of the psychiatric beds in the state are used for suicidal patients.

d.     Board resignation.  Ryan Lake will be resigning as Treasurer due to personal needs.

IX.  Adjournment:  Meeting adjourned at 8:12 PM

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association - Board Meeting Minutes - November 18, 2021 @ 7:00 PM

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

Board Meeting Minutes

November 18, 2021 @ 7:00 PM

Via Zoom

I, . Call to Order:  Tom Montoya called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

ll, Meeting Attendance:  Tom Montoya (President), Jane Potts (Vice-President), Ginny Eiseman (secretary), Ryan Lake (Treasurer), Natalie Dorshimer (Community Liaison), Mike Lapp (Communications). Absent board member- Maria Hargett (Business).  Community members – Eric Shinits, Matt Kremer, Mark Ege, Mitch Larson, Kim,  Elissa. Guests-Tim O’Brien, Jeffery Garcia and Jeffery Garcia (Denver City Auditor), Brent T and Councilman Paul Kashmann.

Lll  Approval of October Minutes.  Approved

iv.   Approval of Treasurer Report.  Approved.  Current balance is $2988.00. 

v.  Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann.  There will be a community cabinet meeting for District 6 residents with city council including Mayor Hancock on November 30 at 6 PM.  An email with the Zoom link will be available thru Paul Kashmann’s newsletter and/or website. The city is looking at sustainable 6 program to define city wide programs to improve  sustainable needs.  Change in speed in neighborhoods to reduce to 20 MPH and evaluate specific   city traffic changes to address high collisions rates. This plan will look at engineering changes such as roundabouts, speed bumps.  Increase in fines proposed for semi truck parking in neighborhoods from $25.00 to $250.00.  Will be assessing changing hours at Hookah Bars to close at midnight.

vi. INC Report-Jane Potts.  The organization is working on re-doing the by laws to be more inclusive, how to set up electronic voting for meetings held on Zoom, develop a better definition of conflict of interest of board members, and develop power behind their INC findings to the City council. 

vii.  Old Business

a.     At Large Board Position- Mitch Larson asked to be considered for this position.  He provided background information and his experience of now living in the Rosedale neighborhood.  

Board unanimously approved for Mitch Larson to hold the At Large Board Position.  Mitch will take on coordinating the neighborhood watch program.

b.      Rosedale Park Services Facility Update- Natalie reported that project is moving forward with the city still working on construction contracts. 

viii.  New Business

a.     Presentation Denver Auditor Office-Tim O’Brien and Jeff Garcia with the IT assistance of Sara del Valle Ruiz.  Tim O’Brian is available for community presentations on going.  A few of the highlights of his presentation included how the revenue does and does not match the budget since COVID lockdowns occurred.  Denver has had sufficient reserves, but they have been depleted.  DIA funds were paid by COVID emergency funds. In 2020, marijuana tax increased by 18%, restaurant tax decreased by 39%, and hotels decreased by 73%.  Parks Legacy Plans audit exposed problems with not following the intent of the program.  The City Cybersecurity team has been able to withstand cyber-attacks. Jeff Garcia represents the Labor issues for the city.  He is available for outreach for any business to help comply with the new living wage law to help the business be compliant.

b.     Delegation of representation to Jane Potts for INC policy changes.  The Board voted unanimously for Jane Potts to represent RHGNA within her role in INC. 

c.      Café Insomnia Issues.  Many complaints from surrounding residents are being addressed by DPD.  City Council is proposing to shorten hours of operation such as close at midnight. 

d.     Discussion of Homeless Campsites.  Residents are noticing increase of homelessness in Rosedale neighborhoods.  Cars/Vans are allowed to park as long as they do not use the sidewalks, streets to place their belongings.  They can be parked in same spot for 72 hours and then would have to move at least 100 feet. Violations/concerns should be reported to DPD.   The City continues to offer SOS (Safe Outdoor Space) which have been successful but the city realizes this is not the solution for the vast majority of homeless. 

e.     The next Board meeting is December 16 at 7:00 PM via Zoom.  Will need to discuss the use of electronic voting for the Board elections next year.

ix. Adjourned. Meeting adjourned at 8:07 PM.

Board Meeting Minutes - October 28, 2021

l. Call to Order:  Tom Montoya, President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM

ll. Meeting Attendance:  Tom Montoya (President), Jane Potts (Vice-President), Ryan Lake (Treasurer), Ginny Eiseman (Secretary), Natalie Dorshimer (Community Liaison), Mike Lapp (Communications).  Absent board member : Maria Hargett (Business).Community Members:  Jeff Walker, Christina Munoz, Mitch Larson, Michele McClure.  Community Guests:  Councilman Paul Kashmann, Brent Fahberger (senior aid with Paul Kashmann), Vickie Wilhite (presenter on Proposition 2F)

lll.  Approval of September Minutes:  Approved 

lV.  Approval of Treasurer Report.  Approved.  All expenses have been paid out for the summer event.  Current balance is $2,792.00. 

V. Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann- On Nov 30th at 6:00 PM District 6 citizens are invited for a final virtual cabinet meeting to hear from  the Mayor on down to other departments.  The Denver Council is in the final stages of the budget of 1.5 Billion.  Programs that are approved are safe routes to school, Municipal Band, training on improving engagement of neighborhoods.  Three legislative initiatives are 1.  Reduce speed on streets not currently marked to 20 mph.  Parks already are at 15 mph.  Will be looking at high injury locations such as Colfax, Evans, and Federal.   66 pedestrians have died this past year.  Speeding is the number one complaint.  2)  Sidewalk repair 2.0 to assess how to get this job done without additional charge to homeowners.  3)  Find better system to reduce bicycle thefts.  Will be looking at Vancouver, Canada’s program that reduced thefts by 40%.

Vl   INC Report – Jane Potts.  INC Board is revising the bylaws to have diversity and inclusion and sustainability concepts included.  They are no longer going to use the Robert Rules of Order in order to have normal types of conversations. 

VII.  Old Business

a.      Discussion of Rosedale School Community Benefit Agreement and Construction Update.  The working group has developed a written agreement.  Central Denver Classical High School’s construction is ongoing.   Refer to Community Update, Oct 21st, 2021, written by Tom Montoya for further details.

b.     Discussion of At-Large Position on the Board.  Tom explained the duties of this position (neighborhood watch coordinator) and invited persons to nominate themselves.

c.      Dog Park Proposal—After learning from Natalie Dorshimer that the city has chosen another site for the dog park in our area, the board considers this issue resolved. 

VIII.  New Business

a.      Denver Policing Reform Commission Report- Jeff Walker.  Jeff (former RHGNA President) reported on task force of over 50 people to address the aftermath of George Floyd’s death impact across police departments and the community.  The committee came up with 5 strategies – 1.  Empower community 2. Minimize interaction with police with having alternatives as the STAR program already in place. 3.  Re integrate persons out of prison 4. Look at best way for community healing 5. Stronger voice in the community of policy in police depts.  

b.     Presentation of Proposition 2F-Vote NO- Vilhite.  (Please note that the RHGNA board has not taken an official position on 2F.  This presentation is only for the information of our community.)  Vicki gave input on current ordinance that has been in the works over 3 yrs with many community members.  She urges for Denver to keep the newly proposed ordinance. This will legalize many current living arrangements and help with the housing crisis. The new law allows 5 unrelated persons to live in one household.  

c.      Harvard Gulch Rec Center new hours effective November 1.  The new hours are 9:00 AM to 8 PM , M-F and 9 AM – 3 PM on Saturday. 

d.     Rosedale Park Services Facility Update- Natalie- There has been no exlanation why the construction has not started.  Natalie will look further into this.

e.     Proposed tour of Rosedale School Facility-   Tom said this is being offered and many on the board would like to see the progress completed so far.

f.      Future Meetings- Next meeting is November 18th at 7:00 PM via Zoom.  The Denver auditor and DA are possible presenters for this meeting. 

g.     Questions from the attendees:  Is there a neighborhood Halloween event for children.  Mike Lapp reported that Porter’s Hospital offers event on Halloween from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. 

lX.    Adjournment-Meeting adjourned at 8:00 PM

Community Update - October 21, 2021

Hello neighbors, it has been six months since the last Community Update and there is a lot of good news to report.  First, despite the limitations on meeting imposed by the COVID Pandemic the RHGNA has stayed active in the community.  Our monthly board meetings have been virtual and we are able to conduct business and carry-out activities and events.   Our new Communications Chairperson, Mike Lapp, has done an outstanding job getting out our monthly e-blast newsletters.

On August 28th, RHGNA hosted the Annual Community Concert at Harvard Gulch Park.  The estimated attendance was 500 people.  The event featured two bands, Folka Polka and Crewe de Groove.  In addition, there were two food trucks and several local vendors at the event.   Ladder Truck from Fire Station 16 provided tours of the truck to the children at the event.  In all the event cost $2,03.75 to produce.  Fortunately, we were able to generate $2,284.84 in community sponsorships and donations.  The RHGNA would like to recognize the office of City Councilman Paul Kashmann for his generous donation of $1,000.00.  The board is planning on hosting the event again next year.

The RHGNA board is currently negotiating a Community Benefit Agreement for the Rosedale School.  A working group has been formed to work with the Central Denver Classical High School Board to finalize the agreement.  The working group members are; Jane Potts, Natalie Dorshmire, Maggie Guntren, Pam Pritzle, Jess Hastings, and myself.  The Community Benefit Agreement will address issues related to the on-going construction and the future relationship of the school to the Rosedale Community.  The Central Denver Classical High School Board and RHGNA Community Benefit Agreement will be appended to lease between Denver Public Schools and the Central Denver Classical High School Board.  

The construction work at the Rosedale School has already begun.  The contractor recently completed the asbestos abatement.  The next step in the construction will be the installation of new utilities and the placement of storm water run-off mitigation on the site. There is also fencing being installed around the site.   Most of the construction staging will be done on the East side parking lot.  The main construction entrances will be on Iliff Ave. and Sherman St.  The hours of construction operations will be 7:00 am to 7:00pm, Monday through Friday.  On Weekends, the hours of operation are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.  These hours are set by the City and County of Denver as part of the permit.

The future plans for the school call for the renovation of the central portion of the building.  The original exterior architecture will be retained.  The North and South wings will be eventually taken down and replaced by new structures.  In addition, there will be a student parking lot and drop-off area constructed on the Sherman side of the site. A sports field will be constructed on the South end of the site.  The Central Denver Classical High School Board plans to have its first freshman class in the building in Fall of 2022.

I hope this letter has informative.  As always, if you have any questions please email me at president@rhgna.org.  

RHGNA Board Meeting Minutes - September 23, 2021

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

Board Meeting Minutes

September 23, 2021

Via Zoom

I.                Call to Order   Tom Montoya, President, called meeting to order at 7:00 PM

II.           Meeting Attendance:  Tom Montoya (President), Mike Lapp (Communications), Ryan Lake (Treasurer), Ginny Eiseman (secretary) Natalie Dorshimer (community Liaison). Jane Potts (Vice-President),  Susan Rafferty (member at large) and Maria Hargett (business) were not in attendance.  Community members – Leah Hoffer-Solomon, Karen Golan.  Community Guests- Elisa Bupp and Brent Fahrberger representing Councilman Paul Kashmann    and ??  Denver Parks and Rec.

III.             Approval of July Minutes- Approved

IV.             Approval of Treasurer Report.  Approved.  August balance is $3,887.00.  

V.             Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann- Presented by his staff Elisa Bupp and Brent Fahrberger.  City is still looking at lowering the speed limits in all neighborhoods to 20 MPH with the slogan 20 is Plenty.  This initiative started by citizens and council members based on other cities who have reduced the speed with positive results and speeding is the number one complaint to the council. The council is also considering lowing the bike speed on bike paths.  Bike thefts are on the rise due to organized crime.  Residents are urged to register their bike online with the city of Denver.  The registration process is going to a different format to make it easier and more effective.  They are looking at a program in Vancouver, Canada that has reduced bike thefts by 40%.  The budget for 2022 is 1.49 Billion.   An amendment passed for $40,000 to be used to provide community engagement training.  The RHGNA thanked  Councilman Kashmann for the $1,000.00 donation used towards the Summer Event.  Questions ---There is a need for safer crosswalk at Downing and Wesley due to increased traffic from Denver Brewery and other businesses in that area.  And there is a need to repave sidewalks in Harvard Gulch Park.  The Councilman representatives will forward this for further consideration.  The past sidewalk program for the city was not successful so the Denver Council is starting a group to further asses the needs/solutions. 

VI              INC Report- Jane Potts:  Jane was unable to attend this meeting.

VII              Old Business

a.      Discussion of Rosedale School Community Benefit Agreement.  Tom Montoya has been working with neighbors near the school on what should be in the agreement now that the lease has been finalized between DPS and the Board for the Central Denver Classical High School.  They have started removing the asbestos which will take about 3 months.  The agreement includes noise construction to be with the hours from 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and 8:00 am to 5:00 PM on weekends, parking and supplies for construction equipment on the school property only and a project site manager is available to work on gong with the community needs.  The central part of the building will be completed for the Freshman class starting 2022.  The other classes will be added as the other parts of the building are completed in about 4 yrs.  

b.     Neighborhood Watch and Community Crime Update.  Susan Rafferty not in attendance to report.

c.     Summer Event Recap.  The event was well attended by our community.  Various issues of holding the event were discussed that would improve planning for next year event.  Suggestion—the board approve getting a debit card for prepayment event needs. 

VIII.         New Business

a.      Meeting Date for October.  There will be a Zoom meeting on Oct 28th at 7 PM.

b.     Payment of Summer Expenses.  Ryan reported on the expenses.  The board approved Mike Lapp to be reimbursed for printing of yard signs and sandwich boards for a total of $165.30 and Tom Montoya to be reimbursed for rental of generator, extension cord, porta potties, liability insurance and permits totaling $1,007.45.  Checks at time of event went to the bands, Polka Folka for $400.00 and Crew de Groove for $460.00.  Total Expenses came to $2,032,75.  Total income came to $2,184.84.

c.     Possible Next Event.  An indoor event/outdoor event for Fall was discussed.  The weather can get too cold for an event planned in November.  There is no possibility to hold inside event at the Rec Center due to COVID restrictions.  Next planned community event will be most likely be an outdoor event next summer.

d.     Status of Board Member Susan Rafferty.  On Sept 22, 2021, Susan Rafferty sent Tom Montoya an email with her resignation as community at large position which was accepted by the Board.  The Board members and community participants are asked to come up with nomination for this position.  

IX.              Adjournment- Adjourned at 7:48 PMRosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

Board Meeting Minutes

September 23, 2021

Via Zoom

I.                Call to Order   Tom Montoya, President, called meeting to order at 7:00 PM

II.           Meeting Attendance:  Tom Montoya (President), Mike Lapp (Communications), Ryan Lake (Treasurer), Ginny Eiseman (secretary) Natalie Dorshimer (community Liaison). Jane Potts (Vice-President),  Susan Rafferty (member at large) and Maria Hargett (business) were not in attendance.  Community members – Leah Hoffer-Solomon, Karen Golan.  Community Guests- Elisa Bupp and Brent Fahrberger representing Councilman Paul Kashmann    and ??  Denver Parks and Rec.

III.             Approval of July Minutes- Approved

IV.             Approval of Treasurer Report.  Approved.  August balance is $3,887.00.  

V.             Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann- Presented by his staff Elisa Bupp and Brent Fahrberger.  City is still looking at lowering the speed limits in all neighborhoods to 20 MPH with the slogan 20 is Plenty.  This initiative started by citizens and council members based on other cities who have reduced the speed with positive results and speeding is the number one complaint to the council. The council is also considering lowing the bike speed on bike paths.  Bike thefts are on the rise due to organized crime.  Residents are urged to register their bike online with the city of Denver.  The registration process is going to a different format to make it easier and more effective.  They are looking at a program in Vancouver, Canada that has reduced bike thefts by 40%.  The budget for 2022 is 1.49 Billion.   An amendment passed for $40,000 to be used to provide community engagement training.  The RHGNA thanked  Councilman Kashmann for the $1,000.00 donation used towards the Summer Event.  Questions ---There is a need for safer crosswalk at Downing and Wesley due to increased traffic from Denver Brewery and other businesses in that area.  And there is a need to repave sidewalks in Harvard Gulch Park.  The Councilman representatives will forward this for further consideration.  The past sidewalk program for the city was not successful so the Denver Council is starting a group to further asses the needs/solutions. 

VI              INC Report- Jane Potts:  Jane was unable to attend this meeting.

VII              Old Business

a.      Discussion of Rosedale School Community Benefit Agreement.  Tom Montoya has been working with neighbors near the school on what should be in the agreement now that the lease has been finalized between DPS and the Board for the Central Denver Classical High School.  They have started removing the asbestos which will take about 3 months.  The agreement includes noise construction to be with the hours from 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays and 8:00 am to 5:00 PM on weekends, parking and supplies for construction equipment on the school property only and a project site manager is available to work on gong with the community needs.  The central part of the building will be completed for the Freshman class starting 2022.  The other classes will be added as the other parts of the building are completed in about 4 yrs.  

b.     Neighborhood Watch and Community Crime Update.  Susan Rafferty not in attendance to report.

c.     Summer Event Recap.  The event was well attended by our community.  Various issues of holding the event were discussed that would improve planning for next year event.  Suggestion—the board approve getting a debit card for prepayment event needs. 

VIII.         New Business

a.      Meeting Date for October.  There will be a Zoom meeting on Oct 28th at 7 PM.

b.     Payment of Summer Expenses.  Ryan reported on the expenses.  The board approved Mike Lapp to be reimbursed for printing of yard signs and sandwich boards for a total of $165.30 and Tom Montoya to be reimbursed for rental of generator, extension cord, porta potties, liability insurance and permits totaling $1,007.45.  Checks at time of event went to the bands, Polka Folka for $400.00 and Crew de Groove for $460.00.  Total Expenses came to $2,032,75.  Total income came to $2,184.84.

c.     Possible Next Event.  An indoor event/outdoor event for Fall was discussed.  The weather can get too cold for an event planned in November.  There is no possibility to hold inside event at the Rec Center due to COVID restrictions.  Next planned community event will be most likely be an outdoor event next summer.

d.     Status of Board Member Susan Rafferty.  On Sept 22, 2021, Susan Rafferty sent Tom Montoya an email with her resignation as community at large position which was accepted by the Board.  The Board members and community participants are asked to come up with nomination for this position.  

IX.              Adjournment- Adjourned at 7:48 PM

 Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

 Board Meeting Minutes

June 24, 2021@ 7:00 PM

Meeting held outside at Rosedale Community Garden

l. Call to Order.  Tom Montoya, President, called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.

ll. Meeting Attendance.  Tom Montoya ( President), Jane Potts (Vice-President), Ginny Eiseman ( Secretary), Maria Hargett ( Business), Natalie Dorshimer ( Community Liaison), Susan Rafferty (Member at Large).  Absent board member- Ryan Lake (Treasurer) Community Guest – Bobby Dishell (RTD Outreach Director)  Community members:  David Fleckenstein, John Fleckenstein, James Dean, Jeff Walker, Susan Anderson, Mike Lapp. 

lll.  Approval of May 13, 2021, board meeting minutes:  Approved

IV.  Approval of Treasurer Report:  Beginning balance of $3,791.50.  Deposit donations of $71.92.  Expense of $18.77.  Ending balance of $3,844.65.

V. Report by Councilman Paul Kashmann.  Paul was not able to attend this meeting.

VI.  INC Report.  Jane Potts.  The June meeting (last Saturday of the Month at 10 AM)) will cover the Safe Open Spaces sites for the homeless.  Jane reports that 50% of the Denver homeless are working.  Other issues they are working on are the group living code, view codes in the Golden Triangle, and affordable housing

VII. Old Business 

a.      Discussion of Rosedale School Community Benefit Agreement.  Tom Montoya is heading this effort along with Jane Potts and Natalie Dorshimer to gather input from Rosedale residents on what will be needed to mitigate any possible problems and needs of the Rosedale residents who will be experiencing changes during construction for the high school and possible future needs after the school is established. A  meeting date in July is to be determine. 

b.     Neighborhood Watch- Susan Rafferty.  Crimes of opportunity have increased significantly as it has in all of Denver.  Street racing is getting attention by coordinating efforts with surrounding city police departments, using helicopters, and offering racing events at Bandimere Speedway.

c.     Discussion and approval of Communications Chair Position.  Mike Lapp has offered to be elected for this position.  Mike and his wife Lisa own the business SODO Village Market located at 2395 S Downing.  He has computer skills for this position and an interest is assisting the Rosedale community.  The Board approved Mike Lapp for the Communications position.  Pam Quigley and Tom Montoya will help orient Mike to the various duties such as web site management, eblasts, and roster of members.

d.     Summer Event Planning- Tom has been working on the permit for an August 28th event in the Harvard Park, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.  The plan is to have at least one band play on the basketball court, food trucks, and games.  Board members all agreed to work on this together and meet sometime in July.

VII.  New Business

a.     RTD director Outreach-Bobby Dishell.  There have been no known COVID infections related to taking public transportation this past year.  His agency is working on getting people to start taking RTD again, setting up an app for RTD, and communicate local and state plans for transportation.  During Covid restrictions, 40% of the riders stayed home.   Ridership never completely stopped but routes were limited.  The plan is to get the routes all back and running.  A complete report of current happenings at RTD can be requested from Bobby Dishell.  

b.     Meetings in July- There will not be a board meeting in July.  There will be a working committee meeting regarding the August Concert in July.  There will be a meeting with Rosedale residents who have signed up to participate in the Rosedale School Community Benefit Agreement. 

VIII.  Adjournment.  Adjourned at 8:00 PM

FYI-   Dates after this meeting were established for the Community Agreement to be held on July  22 and planning for the Concert on  Friday July 23 at the basketball courts at 7:00 PM.

June Meeting Minutes Summary

Rosedale Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association

General Membership Meeting Minutes

June 20, 2019

1. Call to Order  

Robert Anderson called the Regular Meeting of the RHGNA at 6:30 on June 20, 2019 at the Harvard Gulch Golf Course Club House.

1. Attendance

Board Members in attendance were; Robert Anderson (President), Tom Montoya (Sec/Treas),  James Dean (Member-at-Large), Ginny Eiseman (Community Liaison). Members absent Sandy Pierce (VP), Maria Hargett (Business), Margie Fetchik (Communications).  Suzanne and Doug Baity were also present.

1. Approval of May 23, 2019 Minutes – APPROVED – Motion James Dean 2nd Ginny Eiseman

2. Spring into Summer Event June 7 & 8 – Doug and Suzanne Baity

   1. Received $500.00 check from Councilman Kashmann’s Office as donation.

3. Rosedale School Project – Presentation by Arlene Taniwaki, CU Graduate School of Architecture and Planning

   1. Ms. Taniwaki proposed allowing the students to develop a redevelopment plan for the site.  The project would coincide with 2020 school year.

   2. The scope of the project will include the building and grounds.

   3. The RHGNA committed to support the project

4. Rosedale Flag – Tabled

5. Zoning issue – 2160 S Grant St.  

   1. The board will invite the developer to a Neighborhood meeting 

6. Posting of Agendas and Minutes on the Website – Board approved posting summary minutes and agendas on the website.  

7. Discussion of sponsoring a Summer Event in August.   

8. General Meeting in October  - Tentative date 10/17/2019

9. Discussion of the Baitys’  role within the RHGNA 

10. Meeting Adjourned – 8:30 pm