Hot Safe Summer

As you celebrate this summer, follow these guidelines for preventing mishaps. GRILL WITH SAFETY IN MIND

If you are grilling with charcoal, follow these safety essentials. • Before lighting charcoal, let it soak with an approved charcoal lighter fluid. • NEVER use gasoline or any other flammable liquids – they can and will engulf! • Never add lighter fluid to already lit charcoal. This will cause a sudden fire flare-up. • Keep grills away from buildings, combustible covers, and overhangs. • Make sure used charcoal is completely extinguished before disposing of it and place the coals in a covered metal container until trash day. Coals that appear to be out can reignite as much as a day later causing extensive damage. • Never leave your grill unattended while cooking. LEAVE FIREWORKS TO THE PROFESSIONALS

Every July 4th across the United States, firework related accidents lead to millions of dollars in property damage and thousands of injuries. The potential for a wildland/urban fire is extremely high each summer, and the fire-hazard danger is compounded by using fireworks. The City of Golden has adopted municipal code that prohibits the use, possession, sale, and ignition of ALL fireworks. In the City of Golden, violation of the firework code will result in a summons to appear in Golden Municipal Court, which may result in a fine of up to $2650, jail time, court ordered education, and if property or lives are affected, potentially a more severe charge of arson depending on the circumstances. It is best to leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy a permitted and regulated firework display that follows stringent industry and fire safety standards.

DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE

• Prior to drinking, designate a driver who will not be consuming any alcohol. • Never let your friends drive while impaired. • If you have been drinking and do not have a designated driver, call a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or friend. • If you plan on hosting a party where alcohol will be served, remind your guests that they should plan and designate a sober driver, and be sure to provide non-alcoholic beverages.

With these guidelines in mind, have a hot safe summer and happy July 4th!

Your active participation is helping to shape the future of Golden at GuidingGolden.com. Council Approves Hiring MIG to Consult on Racial Equity Plan The City received 12 proposals from firms interested in working with Golden on creating a racial equity plan. After narrowing the field and interviewing the six finalists, the JEDI Subcommittee presented their final recommendation to Council during their June 8 meeting that the City hire MIG to consult on Golden's racial equity plan. The JEDI Subcommittee preferred MIG for its community-focused approach and wide scope. Their work is broken into Phase 1: Listening and Learning: Key Issues, Opportunities, and Priorities, which will take place June-October/November. Phase 2: Taking Action: Developing the Racial Equity Plan will take place early 2022. Look for opportunities to participate. Lodging Tax Ballot Measure City Council is planning to place a ballot measure on the November 2021 election regarding the authorization of a tax on overnight commercial lodging visitors to our community in hotels, motels, campgrounds and short term rentals. If supported by the community, the Lodging Tax proceeds will be a dedicated funding source to address visitor impacts and to fund for quality of life projects to make improvements for Golden residents. Most communities have lodging taxes, but to date, Golden has never had such a tax. Learn more and share your feedback on www.GuidingGolden.com. Retail Marijuana City Council is considering placing a ballot measure on November 2021 election regarding allowing a limited expansion from the one medical marijuana dispensary business in Golden today to allow retail sales of marijuana at that location and a small number of additional locations. Please share you feedback on the topic and take a short survey at www.GuidingGolden.com.