Golden Informer - September 2020

GoldenInformer SEPTEMBER 2020

Heart of Golden BEATS AGAIN Many Ways to Engage in CITY PROJECTS

Artist Jesse Crock: Painting the Town SUPPORT LOCAL SATURDAYS IN SEPTEMBER

2020 Golden City Council

Laura Weinberg Mayor

JJ Trout District One

Rob Reed Ward One

Paul Haseman Ward Two

Casey Brown Mayor Pro Tem District Two

Jim Dale Ward Three

Bill Fisher Ward Four

303-241-9823 E-mail: lweinberg @cityofgolden.net

720-880-5084 E-mail: jtrout @cityofgolden.net

303-431-9891 E-mail: rreed @cityofgolden.net

303-513-2310 E-mail: phaseman @cityofgolden.net

303-900-2003 E-mail: cbrown @cityofgolden.net

303-916-0810 E-mail: jdale @cityofgolden.net

303-588-3389 E-mail: bfisher @cityofgolden.net

To contact the entire City Council, e-mail citycouncil@cityofgolden.net.

IN T H IS ISS U E

The Golden Informer is produced and published monthly by the Golden City Manager’s Office and mailed as a source of news and information to all residences and businesses inside the City limits. Comments on The Informer are welcome.

Please write to: City of Golden 911 10th St., Golden, CO 80401 Attn: Karlyn Tilley

Cover by: Artist Jesse Crock. View more of his artwork at: JESSECROCKART.COM.

3 Helpful COVID Websites 5 Neighbors Help Nab Suspected Thieves 5 Get Ready for Elections 6 C ommunity Requests for

8-9 Back on Track

US 6 & Heritage Intersection

7 Local Artist: Jesse Crock 11 Fall Lawn Care

Call 303-384-8132 or e-mail ktilley@cityofgolden.net.

12 Preparing Your Family for Disaster 12 Be A Tool Day of Service 13 S hop Local September 14 Remembering Childhood in Golden 15 V irtual Golden Gallop

15

City of Golden Department Managers

Jason Slowinski City Manager

Carly Lorentz Deputy City Manager

Dan Hartman Public Works

Steve Glueck Comm. & Econ.

Development

Monica Mendoza City Clerk

Rod Tarullo Parks and Recreation

Bill Kilpatrick Police

Alicia Welch Fire Chief

Jeff Hansen Finance

Teresa Reilly Human Resources

Karlyn Tilley Communications

Jiles McCoy Innovation and Technology

303-384-8012 303-384-8063 303-384-8150 303-384-8095 303-384-8014 303-384-8120 303-384-8033 303-384-8090 303-384-8020 303-384-8017 303-384-8132 303-384-8010 clorentz@ jmccoy@ dhartman@ sglueck@ mmendoza@ rtarullo@ bkilpatrick@ awelch@ jhansen@ treilly@ ktilley@ jslowinski@ cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net

2 | September 2020

HEADS UP: Important Upcoming Items Complete Closure of Clear Creek

ENGAGE in Our Community!

All Access to Creek

This summer, the City of Golden faced hard decisions on how to balance recreation along Clear Creek with COVID-19 health concerns, social distancing, and mask requirements.

For every person who wanted it open there was another NO TRESPASSING TODO EL ACCESO AL ARROYO who wanted it closed.

ESTA CERRADO PROHIBIDO EL PASO At first, the waterway was closed. Then we tried closing access to the creek banks to prevent groups from gathering, but the waterway was open. While this worked to a degree, people could still enter the creek west of Golden city limits, which was permitted at that time. However, there was no safe place to exit the creek east of our borders. Thus, we tried allowing egress access at Vanover Park. Unfortunately, the park then became the area where large amounts of people gathered.

Our Police Department had daily patrols along the creek and used an educational approach.

They handed out masks to those who didn’t have them. However, the numbers of people not complying with health mandates would spike into the hundreds each weekend and education wasn’t making the impact we’d hoped. “We are seeing an increase in individuals trying to access the creek within City limits, a decrease in those wearing masks, and a lot of gatherings,” said City Manager Jason Slowinski. “I believe that the status quo is not acceptable and more aggressive action is necessary.”

In late August, Slowkinski and Police Chief Bill Kilpatrick jointly decided to harden the closures along the creek banks, prohibit waterway activity, and enforce the closures with citations. The restrictions will remain in effect until the city determines that it is safe to open the creek once again. You can read the full orders, history, and details at www.guidinggolden. com/clear-creek-access.

CLOSED

GuidingGolden.com

As of this writing, Council meetings are being held virtually instead of in-person.

Please check the online council calendars for the very latest meeting information at www.cityofgolden.net/agendas.

Sept. 10

COVID-19 Resources As we all try to keep up with the latest pandemic-related restrictions, regulations and rules, there are several resources to help you get updated information. The City of Golden, Jefferson County Health Department, and many others have web pages which are updated frequently.

HERE ARE A FEW OF THOSE RESOURCES FOR YOU: • J efferson County School District restart plan: www.jeffcopublicschools.org/restart_jeffco • J efferson County Public Health Department: www.jeffco.us/3999/Coronavirus-Disease-2019-COVID-19 • H elp for Golden-based families and businesses: www.helpgoldennow.org • C ity of Golden COVID information: www.GuidingGolden.com/COVID-19

Regular business meeting

Sept. 17 Study session

Sept. 24 Regular business meeting Council’s upcoming agendas, packets and meeting minutes are available online under the City Council link at www.CityofGolden.net.

Public comment is welcome on the agenda at all regular business meetings.

September 2020 | 3

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

By Mayor

Laura Weinberg

Golden from the 30,000 ft. View

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ike many things this year, one of my priorities for 2020 as Mayor was delayed due to COVID-19. Delayed, but not forgotten. I am excited to be back preparing for a strategic planning session with City Council at the end of August. In fact, by the time you read this, Council will have already met.

Part of my preparation for the discussion had me looking back at past Council retreats including my first one in February 2014. It is hard to believe how much has happened since then. I went into the meeting with few expectations since I was only a couple of weeks into my new role as a City Councilor.

Council did not adopt a strategic plan, but we did agree on Council initiatives for the year. The main initiative was “Go Golden”.

This effort was to encourage Goldenites to get moving with outdoor fitness opportunities and other challenges and culminated in an event hosted by the Mayor that fall.

Although 2020 is quite different from 2014, some things remain the same. Go Golden is just as relevant for our community. For combating stress, improving mood, maintaining physical health, and connecting with others, you can’t beat a walk or outdoor activity with friends. September is perfect weather to get outside, and I encourage all of you adopt a personal challenge and get moving.

This year, the Council retreat was at the end of August instead of the beginning of the year and there is no big community event planned. If we gather, we’ll be outside instead of inside and wearing masks. We will also be focusing on a long-range plan for the city rather than Council initiatives.

The expected outcome for this retreat is a strategic plan. The community has already accomplished a tremendous amount of work with Golden Vision 2030, the Comprehensive Plan, sustainability goals, housing goals, master transportation plan, and more. Using these existing values and goals, Council will identify key outcome areas with specific priority objectives to fund and execute in the coming years. The strategic plan will be a guiding document and the foundation for meeting current and future community needs. The priorities identified will inform decisions on the budget, city department plans, and boards and commissions work plans.

There will always be unexpected challenges and opportunities to address. A strategic plan will allow the city to continue to make progress towards our goals and vision for our future even in the face of more immediate, short-term concerns. I am looking forward to this meaningful discussion with the rest of Council and to sharing the outcomes with all of you in upcoming months.

I hope you are all staying healthy and safe and that you are able to get out and enjoy Golden this month.

4 | September 2020

Community Helps Catch Suspected Thieves

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n July, there were a series of theft and trespassing incidents throughout the City.

As Golden Police collected evidence from the various crime scenes, they also collected video surveillance from security cameras. Investigators were narrowing in on the suspects, but it was video given to them by residents that helped to secure the arrest. Ring doorbell camera footage led police to Antonio and Kathleen Epifano, and to their home in Golden where nearly all of the stolen items were recovered.

We praise our neighbors for their cooperation in looking through their camera footage and providing it to Golden Police. We also want to take this opportunity to remind you that vigilance is key to preventing yourself from being a victim of car theft.

The suspects in this case looked for cars that had valuables in sight and that were unlocked. Nearly half of all vehicle theft is from cars that were unlocked, had keys inside, or had valuables showing. Don’t make yourself an easy target. Here are some easy steps you can take when you park: • Always take your keys; don’t leave them in or on your vehicle • Close all windows and lock doors • Park in well-lit areas • Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially where they can be seen • Never leave the area while your vehicle is running • Keep your vehicle in your garage, if possible For more information, visit www.lockdownyourcar.org.

Mail Ballot Election Scheduled for Nov. 3

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ue to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are some changes in how and when to register to vote in time for the November election. Here are the latest details.

REGISTRATION DEADLINES: The last day to register to vote or change the address on a voter registration is now determined by the method voters choose to submit their registration.

To receive a mail ballot, you must register by Oct. 26, which is 8 days before Election Day. • Online at GoVoteColorado.com

• B y Mail - www.sos.state. co.us/pubs/elections/vote/ VoterRegFormEnglish.pdf • T hrough a Voter Registration Agency at www.jeffco.us/elections • A t a local driver's license examination facility Anytime in person including Election Day Appearing in-person at any Voter Service Center or the Jefferson County Elections Division, 3500 Illinois St., Suite 1100, to register.

More information can be found at www.jeffco.us/elections.

To be eligible to register to vote in this election you must be a US citizen, at least 18 years old on or before Election Day, a resident of Colorado

and at your present address for 22 days prior to the election.

If your Jefferson County voter registration is current and you live within the city limits of Golden, further registration is not necessary. If you are not sure if you are registered at your current residence, visit www.govotecolorado.com.

All registered voters will be mailed a ballot from Jefferson County the week of Oct. 12. Your ballot must be returned to Jefferson County, or placed in a ballot drop-off box, no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov 3. Golden City Hall will have a drop-off box or you may drop off your ballot at Jefferson County Elections, 3500 Illinois St., Suite 1100.

September 2020 | 5

Community Feedback for US 6 and Heritage Road

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hanks to the more than 100 GOLDEN US 6 AND HERITAGE ROAD INTERCHANGE DESIGN KICK-OFF Golden community members July 29, 2020 who attended a virtual meeting A B C on July 29 and provided substantial feedback on what you see as desirable outcomes for the US 6 and Heritage Road interchange. This, in addition to ideas we’ve collected on Guiding Golden, are helping us to better understand what will be important to Golden as we plan D E F for the reconstruction of this important interchange.

Improving traffic was clearly a goal, but we also heard many comments about pedestrian safety and comfort, bike safety, protected crossings, noise, aesthetics, trees, greenery, and beauty.

You can check out all the input at G H I www.GuidingGolden.com. The image to the right is one of the many things you'll find on the website, where you can zoom in on various parts to more closely read each section of feedback. There is also a video of the entire meeting.

The next step will be to survey the site and collect engineering data. Then alternatives will be developed to meet the goals provided by the community. This fall, we will once again ask for your feedback on the various alternatives. Watch Guiding Golden for the most up-to-date information.

VALUE THEME

ACCESSIBLE AND WALKABLE

We value being a community that is walkable, bikeable, and accessible to all.

Make bike and pedestrian facilities high comfort

derpass Overpass/un Looks ed. for bike/p planned like this is e nearby for a bridg

Reduce speeding of car

I agree! May not need the full gathering area though.

Something similar to 19th Street. Meeting area for pedestrians/ cyclists while fast traffic runs underneath. Slower traffic on bridge to make it safe.

Design so bike and peds not compete with cars

Co-exist with wildlife corridors

Encourage through traffic to use the main highways and supplemental roads (e.g. 6, 470, Colfax) and discourage through traffic on Heritage.

Separate vehicular and bicycle traffic on Heritage between Eagle Ridge Rd and 6th Ave trail (or as far east as practical) — bike lanes, wider walkways, don’t share turn lanes as bike lanes

So so many cars go west on Heritage from 6th Ave North.

What about 10 years from now

VALUE THEME

Clear trail signage (e.g., to 6th Ave Trail or Illinois St)

Totally agree with noise reduction at 19th.

Put the whole through sections below grade.

Make travel to Golden inviting to folks with business on the county campus.

easy and convenient to get to heritage businesses

make local businesses more accessible to light rail and jeffco building

I like the one Billboard that says FARMERS MARKET this Saturday. Very attractive.

Weekend shuttle between JeffCo Station and downtown would be great, like fixed route FlexRide

VALUE THEME

Keep 19th as welcome to golden gateway

make easy access to side streets.

maybe a gateway experience for the trails system

make it easy for residents off heritage to get downtown (cars, bikes)

Park in Jeffco center on weekends and shuttle to downtown

Golden Ridge Rd has become quite busy. Make sure weave and turning conflicts are minimized.

improve signal at Warner Dr. Another Roundabout?

connectivity comfortable for kids

Better Signage to Gov't Center

wayfinding

this could be a gateway to Jeffco government offices

The bike paths through the 6th/19th are a bit inefficient/confusing and could be improved if that model is followed. thanks for the response about noise.

I can't speak to the normal traffic din but the truck/ motorcycle/ racing noise is as bad as ever

Need trash cans

water/dog fountain Definitely a +1 to a water fountain, one of the best features of the 19th street bridge is that.

19th St park does not seem to get a lot of use. I like the big lid though!

Maybe make it a “walking” park instead of a sit and stay park.

Create walking and bike friendly interactive art

Spring flowers!!!

Color!!

Have lots of trees to keep noise down and add shade and keep views of mountains for those making local turns on and off and keep thru traffic below grade.

minimize large elevation differences to cross

More trees along Highway

Splash!!

Daycares on both sides

(especially at Warner) easier

this area is a key connection to light rail, trail connections, Apex open space, businesses

water point for bikers and hikers

It is not easy to get to Downtown Golden from that Heritage intersection

stations

signage to light rail

A lot a Heritage cyclists turn left to access the NB US 6 rec trail and conflict with vehicles.

Reduce or remove this conflict.

bike stations

Highway 6 contributes a lot of noise to the

neighborhood

like, B cycle, bike rental places

Access, access, access

access to the Splash and Golf Course could be improved

to Splash LOL

nice- tohave: water station like 19th

The existing roundabouts on Heritage were a nightmare during construction, but most obviously in design.

You're not using the same civil engineers are you?

FRIENDLINESS / NEIGHBORS

We value maintaining friendliness and connections with neighbors and other residents.

Wide walkways so ped traffic is not congested

high school kids walk to the climbing gym

Bell Middle school is a destination for us.

The design can make it look human-friendly as opposed to industrial.

pedestrian level lighting

Rose garden at jail

highly support the value of creating something that creates connections in the community, as opposed to the barrier that traditional highways create

With current 19th exchange with design and below grade for through traffic it helps make those exciting into neighborhoods feel part of city.

Keep traffic flowing to minimize pollution of start/stop

Light pollution from auto

Friendliness means full separation of vehicles & pedestrians / bicyclists

reduce auto pollution

reduce noise.

Lower HWY6 to minimize road noise

Speed humps on road keeps the speed

(noise) down

Safety is number one. Visibility is an important element of safety. (Don't put so much vegetation that it makes it a safety risk.)

How has the 19th interchange changed noise in the neighborhood west of 6th?

low incline so we don't hear truck brakes

Bike and pedestrian

facilities that are easy to maintain

snow/ice melt

Highway under to keep noise down

like 19th, add some art to the interchange

This is very close to a couple of extremely significant historic sites.

traffic circles on heritage road seem to tight.

Could have signage for heritage square area.

public art installation

More art structures like on 19th.

Geology Display with a view up highway 6 What we are looking at...

Info about the hogback

Buffalo Bill on his horse (smaller than DIA horse)

recycling educational signs Be gentle to the environment signs

Changing information on electronic signs

Art exhibit with link to the City of Golden

Boards to illustrate the history of Golden

Maybe it is because there is no shade but walking across 93 on 19th doesn't seem to incentivize stopping on the 19th exchange park area.

this is a key connection to the middle and high school

VALUE THEME

considering this as a key connection to schools on both sides

US 6 and Heritage Interchange Design – See above article for details.

Zoning Code Update – Take targeted surveys to help our code update team know they’re on the right track.

The Future of the Astor House – Council

6 | September 2020

Have conside flyove Northbo turning onto He

Wasn’t there talk of including a drive-in movie/event space around here?

Golden has great art pieces around town.

This would be a good spot as well.

Use story maps to show the development of the design, engineering, and results of the changes to the intersections.

Make the hardscape and other typical “civil” elements artistic

Interpretive panel for nearby lime kiln and Tripp ranch

dinosaurs are part of history...are there any fossils in the area similar to the exhibits near the golf course

SENSE OF COMMUNITY

We value keeping and enhancing our sense of community, pride, our diversity and tolerance of others, and our community character and community events. Golden values a community supported by a diversity of people, generations, activities, public spaces and amenities.

Maybe some public art that celebrates who we are.

Good restaurants and "beer-garden" in the neighborhood

Keep it well maintained, historical and signage to amenities.

Respect of different needs and values during design process

How d

Your presentation tools were great

this worked really well

Now is a really wonderful time to look for ways to celebrate and integrate diversity.

Recognizing the space will be utilized by pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers from the metro area and beyond — and making it welcoming and intuitive for these individuals and families.

30 Jul 2020

Here is a look at how your active participation is helping to shape the future of Golden.

Visit these pages to access documents and learn more about these current project plus many more.

Striving for Racial Equity – While the City of Golden strives to be a diverse, inclusive and welcoming community, we understand there is still work to do. Give us your ideas on what we’re doing right and how we can do better.

Agreed little impact is very important!

HISTORY / EDUCATION

Guiding Golden

https://ideaflip.com/b/262d373yh75m/

I loved how the 6th Ave was distu when going 19th St. Sa Heritag intersecti

We value our appreciation of history and the arts, and support for quality education.

How do you get

Signage for the paths so walkers/riders know where to go.

bird / lime / lyft scooter

Community garden?

Golden Ridge/Warner roundabout — could reduce pavement space from 2-3 lanes-worth at each approach for easier crossing with well-design paths

Survey Bell students for their input

what are the kids really wanting to get to?

Make crossing Heritage

improve signal at Warner Dr. Another Roundabout?

Don’t make it feel like a bridge over a highway.

Like 19th street, make it a park with a highway under it.

Clean and simple, landscaping on commercial side

Funding for maintenance

VALUE THEME

CONVENIENCE / AMENITIES

VALUE THEME

safe and comfortable enough that parents will be okay with kids traversing unattended

Consider slower walking speeds of our older neighbors in design calculations

softscape

SAFE, CLEAN, QUIET NEIGHBORHOODS

We value safe, quiet, clean, well-maintained neighborhoods.

We value retaining convenience to services and amenities, and our proximity to Denver and mountains.

FAMILY AND KID FRIENDLY

there are many gardens and paths at the Jeffco center, make these more accessible

Designed to aggressively minimize traffic noise.

Some shade?

VALUE THEME

We value being a family-friendly, kid-friendly, and kid-supportive community.

already said, but bike

Maximize Green Spaces and Tree Canopy

Porous pavers or other ways to help spread out water rather than running off

Native plants

VALUE THEME

noise abatement

LOCAL BUSINESSES AND DOWNTOWN

Signage like Gateway to Golden

Vegetation

Enable pedestrians to view the scenery.

We value supporting our local businesses, and keeping a vibrant downtown for future generations.

You said it… connectivity

ACTIVE OUTDOORS/ENVIRONMENT

We value being an active, healthy community that appreciates the outdoors and our connection to the natural environment.

Accommodate fearless and family bicycle users

Make ped and bike crossing at lowest traffic volume on- and off-ramps.

VALUE THEME

is seeking community-based proposals along West Colfax. We are for the lease of the Astor House. Proposals also exploring the redevelopment of West are due Sept. 14 and will be discussed by Colfax as a complete street.

Council at their Sept. 24 meeting.

Sustainability Citizen Task Forces Golden Building Blocks – Help Golden Read their findings and give us your better understand the elements of our feedback on three goal areas: water, City’s homes, buildings, and streets waste, and energy. that best reflect Golden’s small-town character. Take a walk, take pictures and Annual Mobility Survey – Take a survey share with the community! and help us understand how the City South Golden Plan – We are seeking is doing with efforts to provide biking, feedback on a neighborhood plan update walking and transit options for the focused on potential new development community.

Zoom and a tools worke BETTER expected. standar encourage commu participa

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Painting the Town

f you’ve dined outdoors at any of our local restaurants lately, you may have noticed the colorful and artistic banners displayed on the fencing around some of the restaurants along Washington Avenue. When the outdoor business expansion happened in June, it happened quickly. Now that it seems like outdoor seating may be around for a while, the City is looking at ways to upgrade and beautify the temporary fencing. Artistic banners are a first step.

The banners you see downtown are the work of local Golden-based artist, Jesse Crock. Jesse’s paintings highlight the essence of Colorado, as he captures the vibrant landscapes of the places he visits around the state. The banners that can be seen downtown are taken from some of his colorful, original paintings. Jesse says he feels humbled to know that his artwork can bring beauty to an area in times of uncertainty and change. “Being a Golden native also means I have a deeprooted pride in the way our city looks and feels,” said Jesse.

“I am happy to be just a small part of making Golden a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.“ A recently approved Downtown Design Pilot Program from the Downtown Development Authority will enhance the outdoor environment event further, so watch for additional beautifying projects to come!

Civic Foundation Grants $86,000 to Golden Nonprofits

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ach year the Golden Civic Foundation by the pandemic, we see our role of investing (GCF) raises money and then distributes in Golden’s economic and cultural vitality as it to Golden nonprofits and schools through essential to achieving a lasting and positive the Foundation’s Community Grant Program. impact for Golden residents,” said GCF President This year, grants were awarded to 31 Golden Sandra Llanes. nonprofits including cultural, social service, For details on all grant recipients visit: clubs, schools, and civic organizations. www.goldencivicfoundation.org/this-yearsLast year, GCF also gave special grants grant-recipients/. Money for grants are raised to the Golden Backpack Program, the Olde at the GCF annual fundraiser gala. Due to Golden Christmas event, and the Rotary Club circumstances, the gala scheduled for Nov. of Golden’s Mental Health Initiative. The grant 7 will be much different, as planners work on awards are in addition to the Foundation’s current, ongoing putting together a fun, exciting and safe event to celebrate COVID-19-related community fundraising and relief efforts. the Foundation’s 50th anniversary! Watch in October for “Now more than ever, amidst the challenging climate created more details.

September 2020 | 7

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Heart of Golden - Still Beating

he Heart of Golden 2020 project is an exciting opportunity for the community to help us envision a Clear Creek Corridor for the future! COVID-19 slowed the project down, but it continues on and we hope you will engage with us and share your ideas and dreams for the Heart of Golden!

The Heart of Golden project started in October of 2019, when the City of Golden purchased 7.27 acres of land east of Ford Street along the Clear Creek Corridor adding to the approximately 50 acres of public land all the way west to where US 6 crosses Clear Creek. In December 2019, the City kicked off our public engagement process for the Heart of Golden 2020 project. There were four planned phases of the project: Visioning, Refining, Funding, and Selecting.

The Visioning stage was a success with over 4,000 ideas submitted from the community, three largely attended community meetings were held, and high online participation. The second stage, referred to as the “Refining” phase, had just kicked off when the pandemic hit. We were able to have one community meeting and post the next round of options and ideas for the corridor on the Guiding Golden website. We continued with a brainstorming approach to test different ideas with the community from moving many services to the East end of the corridor to spreading out services along the corridor.

In this stage, we received about 300 comments and had about 650 visits to the Guiding Golden page. Check it out at www.guidinggolden.com/heart-of-golden-2020.

The pandemic has limited gatherings and occupied much of the time and energy of staff, Council, and the community. As a result, City Council decided that instead of moving forward to discuss funding and selecting a plan this year, staff should refocus our efforts into a refining and visioning project that is adapted to the new normal by allowing extended periods of community input and active listening. We want to be sure you are involved in every step of this process – past, present and future.

8 | September 2020

WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK The main goal of this project is to get feedback on the big picture elements of the corridor, mainly locations of main uses. After identifying those, we will then focus on finding funding. City Council anticipates the source to be a tax increase that would go to residents of Golden for approval in 2021 or after. If the community votes to approve funding, the next step would be design where we will once again ask our community for your ideas.

Currently we are looking for input and ideas about what uses and locations of uses the community would like to see along the Clear Creek corridor. In August of 2020, we released a new survey with new concepts that are based on the feedback we have heard since last December, but that doesn't mean we aren't interested in feedback about visioning of the corridor and the first three concepts we shared with the community in March 2020. Visit www.guidinggolden.com/ heart-of-golden-refining to take a survey based on the past stages of this project.

The majority of feedback we received so far during the Heart of Golden 2020 process has identified these key priorities: • New building development concentrated in the East Zone • Parking structure in East Zone to support civic buildings and Downtown Golden • Open space network along the creek corridor with largest open spaces concentrated in the Central / West Zone • Creekside amphitheater suitable for large events in the East zone • Replace existing Lions Park baseball fields with open space or other recreation opportunities • Existing Parfet Park and Vanover Park uses to remain largely unchanged Do you agree? Disagree? We want to hear from you either way. The community has given us great ideas for the Clear Creek Corridor that have brought us to this point, so let’s keep going!

DESIGN-YOUR-OWN CORRIDOR Our next online exercise will be a design-your-own corridor where you select certain places for uses and at the end you get your own version of the corridor to submit as feedback. The image on this page is an example of what a section of your corridor version might look like, with icons in the locations you selected. You will also be able to write in details of what you’d like to see or not see on the corridor.

In this current time, we will have plenty of opportunities for the community to share ideas. We aim to stay flexible and adapt to the world arounds us, and we commit to checking in regularly and adjusting accordingly. But most importantly, we want to maintain excitement and gather input for this unique legacy project!

WALKING HEART OF GOLDEN TOUR KICK OFF • SATURDAY, SEPT. 19 GET INVOLVED!

UPCOMING DATES

• Stations along the creek corridor

8th and 9th St. Neighborhood meeting

September 9

• City staff ready to explain the project

12th St. Neighborhood Meeting

September 15

Walking Heart of Golden Tour Kick off

September 19

South Golden Neighborhood Meeting

September 23

Golden High School Class Input

September TBD

Golden Elected Official “Alumni” Group Input

September 28

Cultural Arts Input Night

September 30

Community Yard Sale at 311

October 10

Board and Commission Meeting Discussions

September - October

• Use QR codes to watch videos • Give us your thoughts and ideas Can’t come on Sept. 19? No worries. The signs and QR codes will remain along the corridor for several weeks so you can take the walking tour on your own time.

September 2020 | 9

Social, Economic & Environmental Issues

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CSAB Grant Applications Open!

he Community Sustainability Advisory Board (CSAB) is accepting applications for their 2020 grant program. The program is open to any educational group within the city limits of Golden working on sustainability projects. Through a competitive selection process, projects will be evaluated and selected by the Board. Projects should propose to achieve tangible environmental benefits and provide educational opportunities or materials for the community. Eligible submissions could include projects addressing issues such as renewable energy, water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste diversion.

To apply, complete the online application by Nov. 15 at www.cityofgolden.net/SustainabilityEducation. For questions, email goldensustainability@cityofgolden.net.

HOME ENERGY HELP For 31 years Energy Outreach Colorado has been helping vulnerable Colorado residents power their homes. Their programs offer bill payment assistance, heating system repair or replacement, energy audits, and more in order to set Coloradan’s up for success as winter approaches. To qualify for EOC’s assistance programs, participants must first apply for Colorado’s Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) beginning on Nov. 1. More information can be found at www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdhs/how-do-i-apply.

Breaking New Ground in Water Reuse

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ity Council will vote on the graywater “Laundry to Landscape” ordinance at the Sept. 10 regular meeting. Funded by a grant from WaterNow and with help from Western Resource Advocates, the Golden Community Sustainability Advisory Board and staff have designed a graywater program that allows water from laundry machines to be reused as plant irrigation in a safe and efficient manner. These systems are an exciting step in achieving Golden’s goal to reduce water usage by 15 percent by 2030.

To learn more about the Laundry to Landscape program, apply for a graywater system permit, or sign up to participate in the free pilot program, visit www.cityofgolden. n e t /g r a y w a t e r beginning Sept. 1.

Laundry-to-landscape system. Image credit: CleanWaterComponents.

10 | September 2020

TRASH AND RECYCLING SERVICE REMINDER Trash and recycling services will be delayed one day for the week of Sept. 7 due to the Labor Day holiday. Please have carts out by 7 a.m. the day following your normal service day.

Interested in getting trash service updates straight to your inbox? Subscribe to the Golden Waste Notification System by going to cityofgolden.net/trash. You will receive reminders of holiday week delays and stay informed on severe weather notifications that may affect your recycling and garbage collection.

This service is only for City of Golden waste program customers.

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Fall Lawn Care

ith the cooler temperatures and shorter days of Fall right around the corner, it's a good time to prepare your grass for the winter ahead. Fall is an important time to put a little energy and care into your lawn's health - and next summer, you should see the benefits. There are two easy but important steps.

STEP 1: AERATE Do this while your yard is still green.

Aeration improves your yard's ability to absorb water and nutrients. Before starting, make sure to mark your sprinkler heads so you avoid running over them and causing damage. Often, you can rent core aerators at home improvement stores to get the job done.

STEP 2: ADD NUTRIENTS While it’s advised to test your soil

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Nitrogen application can often be reduced by 1/4 to 1/3 when grass clippings are returned to the lawn during mowing. Nitrogen and other nutrients contained in the clippings are recycled into the lawn as they decompose. Grass clippings do not contribute to thatch accumulation in lawns.

If you're wondering whether it might be simpler to just leave the fallen leaves on your yard, be warned that too thick of a layer of leaves can suffocate a lawn. However, a thin layer of leaves, particularly if they've been chopped up by a mower, can add nutrients back into your landscape. Extra leaves can be used to mulch around flower beds, shrubs, and trees.

first, plant experts from CSU Extension Services generally recommend a fall application of fertilizer high in Nitrogen (e.g. 25-5-5) for cool-season grasses.

Apply this type of fertilizer a few weeks before temperatures are supposed to reach freezing. The main caution is to not add too much, which can result in Information provided by Resource damaging your grass and polluting local watersheds. Follow directions on the Central, Colorado Sprinkler Guide and package, and your yard should benefit.

CSU Extension Fact Sheets.

Fall Fun at the GCC

he Golden Community Center continues to look for safe ways to provide fun and active opportunities for recreation. Here are some ways you can participate this fall:

GENERAL GCC FITNESS & LAP SWIM Individual fitness and lap swim reservations are now available at the Golden Community Center! Book your visit today at rec. cityofgolden.net for a workout, pickle ball, shoot hoops or swim laps in your own lane. We are strictly following all CDC and CDPHE guidelines for disinfection to maximize safety for all guests and staff. We look forward to seeing you return to the GCC! And even if you aren't quite ready to return in person, check out our FREE online group exercise classes by visiting the schedule on our website at www.cityofgolden.net/GCC.

FALL PROGRAMS Registration is open for a variety of classes and activities. All programs closely follow all CDC and CDPHE guidelines for your safety. Registration is currently available for: • Youth Dance classes • Jump Bunch classes

• Youth Sports & Conditioning • Adult Pottery • Adult Softball & Cornhole Leagues Look for more GCC information and upcoming opportunities at rec.cityofgolden.net.

September 2020 | 11

Disasters Don’t Wait - Make Your Plan Today

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fter everything that's happened in 2020, we know first hand that disasters don't wait. They can happen at any time. This year's National Preparedness Month seeks to help you get ready for anything that comes our way. There is no better time to think about a disaster plan for your family.

Keep in mind some of these factors when developing your plan: • Different ages of members within your household • Responsibilities for assisting others • Dietary needs • Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment • Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment • Languages spoken • Cultural and religious considerations • Pets or service animals • Households with school-aged children

• Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation) • Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food) • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert • Flashlight • First aid kit • Extra batteries • Whistle (to signal for help) • Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) A basic emergency supply kit could • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties include the following:

• Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) • Manual can opener • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. Here in Golden we face severe weather and disasters like floods and fires, so it takes all of us working together to be ready and resilient. For more information visit https://www.ready.gov/september.

Create Your Own Day of Service

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t’s a long-standing tradition in Golden to help our neighbors.

For the past nine years, hundreds of volunteers gathered on a day in September to be a part of the Be A Tool Day of Service. But as with most things, the big group projects cannot happen this year.

So, organizers are thinking outside the (tool)box to help our residents in need.

The organized Day of Service events are spread out into several smaller events. The first was held in early August with 21 volunteers working on five homes that needed repair for safety and comfort.

There will be two more small events on Sept. 12 and Oct. 10 and you can sign up to volunteer at www.beatool.org. However, attendance at those events will be limited. So, this year you are encouraged to Be A Tool by helping your own neighbor in need!

Help celebrate the 10th year of the Be A Tool program by creating your own day of service. Assist someone with a home project, take some pictures of your efforts, and then tag #beatool on social media.

If everyone helps those around them, this could be one of the most successful Be A Tool efforts in the project’s history! Find out more at www.beatool.org.

12 | September 2020

PLACES TO GO • THINGS TO DO

SEPTEMBER SUPPORT LOCAL SATURDAYS This September, show support for Golden by shopping locally every Saturday! Not sure where to start? Start at the “Welcome to Golden” arch and work your way up both sides of Washington Avenue and down the side streets for treasures ranging from backpacking, mountaineering, rock climbing and kayaking gear at Vital Outdoors to natural skin care at Spinster Sisters Co. Stop for a treat at the hometown soda fountain at Golden Sweets and stock up on candy to bring home at Golden Goods. Browse new and gently used women’s fashion items at Truly BoHotique or find a great gift for a friend at Red Wagon Gift & Garden Shop.

Don’t forget: Downtown Golden is filled with great dining options, including burgers at Bob’s Atomic Burgers, ramen at Nosu Ramen, sandwiches at D’Deli, and a wide range of options at Tributary, just to name a few.

Every Saturday in September, support your local merchants and shop local in Golden.

September is full of opportunities to get out and explore Golden.

Here is a list of ways to support your local community every Saturday in September.

• Golden Farmers Market – 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Many are offering free or reduced admission through 2020.

• G olden History Museum Homestead Open House – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• T he Great Golden Trivia Hunt! A Centennial Celebration Event (Golden Chamber of Commerce)

• A rt on the Fence – 2020 Banner Art Project (Golden Chamber of Commerce)

SEPT. 19 – SHOP GOLDEN SATURDAY

Every Saturday in September

• R ocky Mountain Quilt Museum’s 30th Anniversary Celebration

Sept. 5 – DINE GOLDEN SATURDAY Help our restaurant community thrive! Revisit your favorite Golden eatery or pick a new one. Not in the mood to eat out? Grab take-out or delivery and enjoy in the comfort of your home or have a picnic in your favorite Golden park.

SEPT. 12 – PLAY GOLDEN SATURDAY Stop by one of Golden’s many cultural attractions.

There is something for everyone at one of Golden’s unique shops. Get a jump on holiday gifts while supporting Golden’s fantastic retailers.

SEPT. 26 – STAY GOLDEN SATURDAY Golden is home to many boutique hotels and B&B’s.

Treat yourself to a little staycation to experience all our town has to offer.

SEPT. 12, 19 & 26 Day Out With Thomas at the Colorado Railroad Museum

Visit GoodToBeGoldenCo.com or VisitGolden.com for a list of activities and ideas!

September 2020 | 13

The Best Two Years of My Childhood

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his past spring in the midst of the pandemic lockdown and stay-at-home orders, I received a note in the mail from Christine LaDuke in Minnesota. She said that with time on her hands, she and her brother Michael decided to revisit fond memories of growing up in Golden, and share with the Museum. A nice way to spend some free time at home, pandemic or not.

I’ve excerpted just a little here. The entire memoir may be read in our online collection and at GoldenHistory.org/blog.

- Mark Dodge, Curator My father was born on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Browning, Montana in 1933. He was barely Indian, and we children, with our full-blooded Norwegian mother, didn't look Indian at all. It is significant to mention that both our parents were born and reared in Montana, because Montanans raise their children with a sense of freedom and adventure. You will have a greater appreciation of this fact as our story unfolds. Dad was only 18 and my mother 16 when my eldest brother was born. Just six years later they had brought forth into this world four beautiful children.

I was the second in birth order, born in 1953.

Dad had been raised in poverty having lost his own father at the tender age of four. He and my mom were raised in Cut Bank, a thriving community adjacent to the Blackfeet Reservation. After graduating from high school (1950) he got a job working as a wildcat on the local oil rigs.…

It was extremely rare for anyone born on the Rez to get a college education in the 1950s. Dad loved his homeland adjacent to Glacier National Park, yet wanted a better life for his children. His was the American Dream and he was chasing it.…

In 1958 or 59 our family moved to

The home on 11th Street, 1985. Golden History Museum & Park, City of Golden Collection.

Golden, Colorado. Dad was just 24 and mom 22 years old when he enrolled at the School of Mines. They were young, optimistic and playful with four energetic children; Michael (7), myself (5), Randy (3), and Renee (1). We children were wild and free. We sought adventure and knew nothing of boundaries.

The garage of our home had been converted to a kitchen which had a staircase leading to four upper bedrooms. These rooms were also rented by students who attended the School of Mines - foreign exchange students to be precise: Miguel from Argentina, Efrain from Ecuador, George, a Mongolian

Chinese, and Stuart from Taiwan.

George and Stuart did not talk to each other, for they both feared the other was a Communist spy. Although our living spaces were separate from these young men, it was not unusual for them to visit us or to go on outings with our family. I remember them telling us stories and showing us hats and other small items from their homelands. It was an incredible multi-cultural experience!

Fond attachments were made and I cried the day Efrain left for good.

Read more of this memoir at GoldenHistory.org/blog.

Golden History Museum & Park • 923 10th St. • 303-278-3557 Check GoldenHistory.org for hours of operation, calendar of programs, and special event details.

14 | September 2020

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Drive-In Movie a Big Hit

he old Heritage Square parking lot came to life on Aug. 14 with a twist on our traditional Movies and Music event. Our normal park venue did not allow for safe distancing, so we created Movies and Music in the Park…ing Lot! Although the events are free, we do require people to sign up because parking is limited. All spots were sold out for our August showing of the movie Grease within 24 hours of their release!

We will have another movie drive-in night on Friday, Sept.

11 in the same parking lot, with similar space limitations.

Mark your calendars now; tickets for the free Sept. 11 event will go "on sale" at 8 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 4.

Visit www.cityofgolden.net/Movies&Music.

We let you decide on the movie for September. After a month of online voting on our Guiding Golden webpage, it was a tie between Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Raiders of the Lost Ark. We let our August audience make the final choice by honking for their top choice. The winner and the movie we will show in September is Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Friday, Sept. 11 • Starting at 6:30 p.m.

Old Heritage Square lower parking lot RESERVE YOUR SPOT starting at 8 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 4.

TICKETS GO FAST SO GET THEM RIGHT AWAY!

cityofgolden.net/Movies&Music

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The Golden Gallop: Your Race. Your Place. Your Pace.

n a year that has seen almost every event cancelled, the Golden Gallop says, “when you can’t do what you do, you do what you can!”

Sponsored by the Golden Schools Foundation (GSF), the Golden Gallop is an annual fundraiser with all proceeds benefitting key programs, enrichment grants, academic boot camps and other programs at our local Golden schools. As schools adapt to changing public health guidelines and added expenses due to the COVID-19 crisis, the support of the GSF is as vital as ever.

GSF hopes to expand their existing programs this fall to address the mental wellness impacts of the pandemic on our students, as well as helping to fund unforeseen expenses related to

potential remote learning situations. The needs of the schools will also be compounded by the anticipated state budget cuts to education funding. This is your chance to have fun while supporting our students!

Although there will not be an actual race day, nor a race expo, the folks at GSF still hope for a great turnout of support with the same 5K, 10K, and Kids Fun Run, PLUS the New VIRTUAL Challenge. All ages are encouraged to participate, and even furry friends are welcome this year!

The "virtual race" will be open from Sept. 11 - 20 and can be completed wherever you choose.

Visit www.goldengallop.com for details.

September 2020 | 15

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID GOLDEN, CO PERMIT #26

POSTAL PATRON

Shop Local. Buy Golden.

We are Golden Strong!

Show your support for our businesses and community BUY LOCAL EVERY WEEK!

Now is the time to rediscover all Golden has to offer with: • A more peaceful downtown atmosphere • Plenty of parking (free for the first 2 hours!)

• Expanded and less crowded sidewalks • Expansive outdoor dining and shopping areas • Free admission to many cultural attractions

Stop by the Golden Visitors Cen ter for a resident b ag full of great local coupons an d info.

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GOOD TO B

Goodtobegoldenco.com

Golden