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Our in-depth look at the housing crisis

Laurie Halaba becomes first female bureau chief Sheri Brown leads ceremony

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Moments after making history at the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce, Laurie Halaba hugged her daughter and wiped away tears.

She had just been sworn in as the agency’s newest bureau chief, becoming the rst woman to ever hold the position at the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce.

“It’s a little overwhelming,” Halaba said following the Jan. 24 ceremony.

“When I started 23 years ago, if you would’ve told me that I would be the rst female bureau chief, I would’ve laughed.”

High home prices, lack of supply sever metro residents from communities

work

BY ROBERT TANN COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

When Chris Laney moved into his new three-bedroom home last

summer, he felt like he’d won the lottery. After more than a decade of chasing the cheapest rent across the metro area, the Littleton bartender nally has a house to call his own.

“I almost feel guilty that I have it,” said Laney, 49.

Laney is one of a handful of residents who have secured housing through a subsidized program aimed at helping lower- and

middle-income people live where they work. But as cities and towns contend with historically high home costs and a lack of supply, residents like Laney have struggled to live in their communities.

“I’ve always felt like I was just passing through instead of living somewhere, putting down roots,” said Laney. He has worked

SMALL GOALIE, BIG HEART

As bureau chief, Halaba will command the Public Safety Bureau, which encompasses the patrol operations, special operations and investigation services, the sheri ’s o ce said in a statement. She will also oversee the law enforcement contract for the City of Centennial.  e previous bureau chief, Glenn ompson, recently retired. Sheri Tyler Brown said Halaba was on the radar for the position “probably from about week one that I was here at the sheri ’s o ce.”

“Laurie is a consummate professional when it comes to (being) a member of command sta . She has been an example for so many, and

Low- and middle-income people struggle to live where they

Local youth theater nonprofit o ers a ordable classes

Sisters teach their passion

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When Aspen Somers and her twin sister, Ashley, were kids, they watched an opera singer on television and fell in love with performance.

Now, at 19 years old, the sisters run Stagebugz Theatre, a nonprofit youth theater organization in Littleton.

“Our mission is really just to provide a fun, safe and positive performing experiences for kids,” Somers said. “We believe that theater can change lives and we want any kid whose life should be touched by theater to have that opportunity.”

In addition to fostering a love for performing arts, part of the organization’s mission is to make theater financially accessible to kids of all backgrounds. They have offered free community workshops to meet this goal since the organization started in March 2022.

Starting Feb. 13, they will also be offering pay-what-you-can classes at the Koelbel Library in Centennial.

“We really wanted anybody who was interested to be able to participate in our programs, and we didn’t want anyone to feel like there is any shame in needing financial help,” Somers said.

For these classes, participants can pay as much or as little as

they can afford, Somers said. The idea is that some families will be able to pay enough to cover the costs of families who cannot pay, offering the same experience to all students regardless of financial status.

Somers said she and her sister hope this new format can help families as inflation and the repercussions of COVID continue to make money tight for many.

One of the pay-what-you-can classes is a weeklong acting intensive for children aged 10 to 16. The course, which will run Feb. 13 to Feb. 16, focuses on character development, script analysis and comedic timing and culminates in a public performance.

A class for younger children will prepare students to perform a Winnie the Pooh musical, with weekly rehearsals from March 1 until April 12.

Somers and her sister, who are both involved in theater at the University of Southern California, teach the classes. They are on a leave of absence this semester, which makes it possible for them to offer classes this spring.

The sisters know how to teach because they have both been involved in theater their whole lives.

“I had worked for a youth theater company the summer before last year,” Somers said. “We also both have directing experience from various opportunities that we’ve had throughout our lives. And then I think a lot of it was just things that we have learned from our experiences in theater.”

Amy Buteyn is a Littleton mother whose son, Noah, participated in several free community workshops and a summer camp with Stagebugz. She said the Somers

sisters are one of the best things about the program.

“They’re always just so positive,” she said. “Some of the kids, you know, they’re new or they’re shy or they don’t necessarily want to do it and (the sisters are) just always so positive with all the kids.”

Noah said that after every class, he wanted to do another.

“I loved all of them,” he said.

Stagebugz provides a fun way to introduce kids to theater without a big commitment, especially because of the free community classes, Buteyn said.

“As a parent of two kids, summer camps and everything just get really expensive,” she said. “It’s kind of nice because (Noah) got like a little trial for free and then he could decide if he liked it. And then he did the summer one and he loved it.”

For Somers, who said she and her sister were both shy as children, theater has provided an outlet to grow more comfortable and confident. She said the most rewarding part of running Stagebugz is getting to watch kids experience that same growth.

“Every time we do a workshop or a camp and we see someone coming out of their shell or someone who never thought that they were interested… and by the end of it, they are begging to do another theater class - that’s not really anything that we expected that we would be able to do,” she said. “It’s so rewarding to see kids’ lives be so affected by being involved in theater.”

There is still space in the upcoming spring pay-what-you-can classes. Participants can register at https://www.stagebugztheatre. com/classes.

Ashley Somers teaching children a dance at a Stagebugz Theatre community workshop.

PHOTO COURTESY OF STAGEBUGZ THEATRE

Police have reached out to the public for help in apprehending a hit-and-run suspect.

Englewood police looking for hit-and-run suspect

BY TAYLER SHAW

Englewood police asked the public for help in locating the suspect of a hit-and-run incident that happened Wednesday morning near South Broadway and West Floyd Avenue.  e suspect is believed to be a white male in his 30s with brown hair, the Englewood Police Department said in a news release.

O cers responded to an “auto vs. pedestrian” hit and run at approximately 8:58 a.m. Wednesday, the police department said in the release.

e vehicle was initially involved in a minor accident with another vehicle. When the drivers went to exchange information, the suspect allegedly ed the scene, “running over the victim, causing injury to their leg,” according to the release.  e involved vehicle was a 2011 white Dodge Ram 1500 that was reported stolen out of Adams County, per the release. e Englewood Police Department said via Facebook that the vehicle was located in Denver on Jan. 25, but the suspect was still at large.

If anyone has information, police ask that they call (303) 761-7410.

Englewood selects remediation contractor for meth cleanup

Estimates over $40,000

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

After the City of Englewood received data showing meth contamination in more areas of its civic center, the city selected a remediation contractor.

“We have made a decision based on time and cost, and we are moving forward with a company called CES, Custom Environmental Services,” said Englewood Director of Public Works Victor Rachael.

Custom Environmental Services is a Colorado-based environmental contractor that o ers meth abatement services. Rachael said the company is state certi ed and on the approved Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment list.  e cleaning process is expected to start within ve business days and roughly estimated to take 15-25 days to complete, Rachael said.

“ at could vary a little bit. e additional testing that was just done are not included in the quote from the contractor, so we’ll be adding that to their scope — so the days could extend,” Rachael said.

City’s additional testing revealed more contamination in civic center e original testing the city did in early January revealed levels of meth contamination that exceeded the state’s threshold in the Englewood Public Library, the restrooms on the second oor of the civic center and the north entrance lobby of the civic center. ose areas temporarily closed Jan. 11.

“Our initial testing was based on two-fold, kind of, information that we learned from Boulder coupled with input from city sta on where they may have seen or had concerns there might have been some activity,” Rachael said.

In late December, Boulder Public Library temporarily closed after testing found levels of meth contamination in its restroom exhaust vents.

Chris Harguth, the city’s director of communications, previously told Colorado Community Media that there has been a recent increase in

sta and patron reports of drug use at the Englewood library.

“I would say within just a few days of the initial results coming back, we elected to do additional testing, you know, thinking that it’s better to be safe than sorry and, again, trying to look out for employees’ — and citizens’ for that matter — health and safety,” Rachael said.

e additional testing revealed more areas in the city’s civic center that had meth contamination.

Rachael said the city received data Jan. 23 from the lab that showed there was meth contamination above the state’s threshold in the south lobby on the rst oor of the civic center, in the exhaust vents of the civic center’s third oor restrooms, and in the exhaust vents of the Museum of Outdoor Arts (MOA) restrooms.

e museum has been closed for quite some time in the civic center, Rachael said. According to a 2019 study published in the National Library of Medicine, residues of meth can “remain embedded in surfaces for years.”

e third oor restrooms are for employees only, Rachael said. Harguth noted in a Jan. 23 email that these restrooms “were public until a few years ago” and byproducts from contamination can remain for years.

Deciding to test the restrooms was partly based on input from the city’s testing consultant, Rachael said. QUEST Environmental did both rounds of testing for the city.

“Our rst test results came back and did show the exhaust fans had the highest concentrations. So when we did our additional testing, we made sure to conduct all exhaust vents in any of the other bathrooms, including the MOA space as well as the third oor employee bathrooms.”

After receiving the results, the city temporarily closed the south lobby, but the third oor restrooms remained open, Rachael said, adding, “And that was based on discussions with the county and the state.”

“What’s been conveyed to me is that — because we did test the walls and stu in the bathrooms, not just the exhaust vents, they came in under the threshold and the exhaust vents were the only thing that came

NEVER PAINT AGAIN

in over and they’re negative pressure, meaning that air is always being sucked up and out — that the exposure risk was minimal to zero,” he said.

Experts like Eric Hill, an emergency medicine physician and the EMS medical director for the Medical Center of Aurora, previously told Colorado Community Media that secondary meth contamination in public spaces poses a fairly low risk to the public.

“I seriously doubt someone would be symptomatic related to exhaust vent residue in an exhaust vent. It certainly means that, yes, there was methamphetamine smoked in there, but I think the public health risk is fairly low on that,” Hill said.

As of Jan. 27, the Englewood Public Library, the civic center’s second oor public restrooms and the north and south civic center lobbies are closed until further notice.

“We did secure additional restroom facilities for the public, since the public bathrooms are closed. We have a heated bathroom trailer here, available at the service center with separate women’s and men’s facilities, and we also secured two ADAcompliant portalets,” Rachael said.

“And we increased security during the day, when people might be using those, to help prevent any contamination concerns on these temporary facilities,” he added.

What are the costs?

e original testing the city did in early January cost approximately $2,800, Harguth said via email.

Rachael said the city has not yet gotten the exact cost of the additional testing but thinks it will be in line with the original testing cost.

For the cost of remediation, it was estimated to be approximately $40,000 for the initial remediation, Rachael said, but that cost will increase due to the additional testing nding contamination in more spaces.

“We’re getting a quote for that now, so the cost will increase based on the new scope requirements,” Rachael said.

Remediation process will not be as extensive as city originally thought

Originally, the city thought the cleaning process would involve a more extensive remediation for the restrooms in the library and the restrooms on the second oor of

the civic center, likely involving the removal of drywall and ductwork.

“ at’s no longer the case, is our understanding,” Rachael said. “ e contractor who does the remediation … they’re gonna be doing just a deep cleaning on all surfaces.”

Harguth said in his email that the city anticipates the process will require a triple application of a mild detergent to clean the a ected areas.

Rachael explained this threeapplication cleaning process is what the remediation contractor will be doing for most of the contaminated spaces — the restrooms in the library, the civic center’s second oor restrooms, the north civic center lobby and the south civic center lobby.

“ e MOA bathrooms and the third oor bathrooms, the contamination was only in the exhaust vents, so there’ll be di erent cleaning for the exhaust vents,” he said.

e city said on its website there were some spaces in the library that tested positive for “lower levels of contamination.” When asked if these spaces will also be undergoing the three-application cleaning process, Rachael said, “Yeah, as appropriate.”

“Some of the materials are going to be a little bit di erent. ere’s the oor, there’s the walls with the drywall, there’s things like — there’s a park bench that’s gotta be cleaned.

“So, generally, yes, I would say it’s the three-application cleaning process. ey may have to get a little more intricate depending on the material, though,” he added.

Looking ahead

Rachael said the city is having conversations as it moves forward through the remediation process about what reopening will look like and what it should include to help prevent this situation in the future.

“We’re looking at things like regular deep cleanings, similar to what’s being done now. We’re also looking at increased security. We’re looking at technology options — additional detection devices that can pick up not only smoke but other particles in the air,” Rachael said.

“ e health, safety and welfare of sta and the general public are the reason things are closed, the reasons we did the testing — and (are) gonna be our focus, as they have been, as we move into reopening and trying to make this a safe public space for all to enjoy.”

The front doors of the Bemis Public Library in Littleton on Jan. 19, after the city closed it due to methamphetamine contamination.

PHOTO BY NINA JOSS

POLICE

she’s the right person for this position,” Brown said.

“On top of that, she is also the rst female member of our command sta , and in the 165 year history of our agency, she’ll be the rst female bureau chief,” he added, prompting cheers and applause.

Halaba has worked in every segment of the sheri ’s o ce, Brown said.

She started working with the agency in 1999 as a deputy in the detention facility, according to a statement from the sheri ’s o ce.

In 2001, she became a patrol deputy. After three years, she took on the role of a school resource o cer.

By 2006, she returned to working as a patrol deputy for another three years, per the statement.

A decade after her law enforcement career began, in 2009, Halaba was promoted to sergeant, according to the statement. As a sergeant, she worked in the detention bureau, patrol division and the o ce of professional standards.

Halaba continued to move up

the ranks in 2012 when she was promoted to lieutenant, and she worked as a watch commander on patrol, the sheri ’s o ce said in the statement.

en, in 2014, she made history for the rst time at Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce when she was appointed as the agency’s rst female captain. Halaba oversaw the detention administrative section for six years.

In 2020, she became the agency’s Captain of Patrol Operations, a position she held until being sworn in as bureau chief.

“I know you’ve been an inspiration for so many here at the sheri ’s o ce and so many young women across the state in law enforcement,” Brown said before swearing Halaba in.

Women make up less than 13% of total law enforcement o cers and “a much smaller proportion of leadership positions,” according to a 2019 National Institute of Justice report.

“I can’t say that it didn’t have its challenges, because it did. Being a woman, a female, in this type of work where predominantly it’s all males, it can be challenging at times,” Halaba said. “But it also is

very rewarding. I work with great people, and I always have, that supported me.”

Her advice to women interested in a career in law enforcement is to nd a woman in the eld they can talk to about the job.

“ ey’ll tell you everything that we go through. And, you know, sometimes being a mom and a cop can be challenging … nding that balance,” Halaba said.

Halaba has a 24-year-old daughter, Elisabeth Pevler, and 16-yearold son, Tyler Riedmuller. ey both beamed with pride during the swearing-in ceremony.

“We’re just very proud of her and her long career,” Pevler said. “Denitely an inspiration, obviously — and hopefully being a leader myself, someday, like her.”

Following in her mom’s footsteps, Pevler is a deputy at the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce. She said she wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement for the same reason as her mom — to help others and make the agency and county a better place.

Halaba’s passion has also inspired her son who has joined the Explorer program at the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce, which is an educa-

tional program for young people who want to learn more about a career in law enforcement.

“She brought me to all the events when I was growing up, and it made a huge in uence on me,” Riedmuller said, explaining he wants to work at the sheri ’s o ce in the future.

Halaba’s husband, Robert Losciale, added, “She de nitely supported me when I wanted to make a change in careers almost six years ago.”

Losciale is a deputy with the Denver Sheri Department.

“It has taught me a lot seeing her work and … her work ethic and how she handles her people as a leader — has de nitely made me a better deputy with Denver and a better leader,” Losciale said.

Re ecting on the progression of her career, Halaba said she wanted to make things better for the people she works with.

“I love this job — that’s why I’ve stayed here for almost 23 years,” she said. “I think for us females in this type of work that, you know, we’re powering through this male-dominated industry and we’re slowly getting more and more.

“But just keep powering through,” she added. “ e sky’s the limit.”

Arapahoe County Sheri Tyler Brown, left, and Bureau Chief Laurie Halaba flashed bright smiles after Halaba was sworn in Jan. 24 at the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce. PHOTOS BY TAYLER SHAW

Bureau Chief Laurie Halaba smiles alongside her family after being sworn in Jan. 24. From left: Elisabeth Pevler, Laurie Halaba, Robert Losciale and Tyler Riedmuller.

Suspect in alleged assault peacefully surrenders

After SWAT stando

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Following a stando with SWAT for several hours in Aurora on Jan. 26, omas Jon Kelsen surrendered peacefully and was arrested on charges related to him allegedly assaulting family members in Centennial the previous night.

At approximately 4 p.m. Jan. 25, deputies responded to a home in the 4600 block of East Lake Avenue in Centennial, where a 48-year-old woman and her 78-year-old mother live, Ginger Delgado, a public information o cer for Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce, said via email.

e suspect, who is the son of the 78-year-old woman and brother of the 48-year-old woman, reportedly arrived at the residence “and a family dispute began,” according to the

email.

Kelsen, 45, allegedly pushed his mother and violently hit his sister with a weapon before then leaving the scene, per the email. In a Jan. 27 tweet, the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce said Kelsen is accused of striking his sister in the throat with a hammer.

e sister reportedly called 911 after she was struck, Delgado said. She was allegedly seriously injured and transported to a local hospital.

Around 7 a.m. Jan. 26, deputies learned the suspect was at his home in the 18800 block of East Colorado Drive in Aurora, Delgado said. Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce deputies arrived on scene and asked the Aurora Police Department’s SWAT team to take over since it was their jurisdiction.

Delgado said the police evacuated the two homes next door to the house and tried to communicate with the suspect for several hours by

public address system, or PA system, but did not get a response.

“We obtained a search warrant and arrest warrant around 1 p.m. and the SWAT team proceeded to breach a window. at’s when the suspect surrendered peacefully,” Delgado said.

Kelsen surrendered before anyone from the SWAT team entered the residence, Delgado said, and there

Kelsen was arrested on suspicion of three charges: second-degree assault, crimes against an at-risk elder and rst-degree burglary. When asked about the burglary charge and what was reported stolen, Delgado said she did not have that information.

As of Jan. 26, Kelsen was at the Arapahoe County Detention Facility.

Dead body found in homeless camp

No foul play suspected

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A dead body was found at a homeless camp on Little’s Creek Trail under Rapp Street on Jan. 23. The Littleton Police do not

believe there was any foul play or criminal activity, spokesperson Sheera Poelman said.

Littleton Code Compliance workers found the body on Tuesday morning while they were conducting a cleanup at the camp, Poelman said. They called the police around 11 a.m., she said.

Littleton Code Compliance,

part of the Community Development Department, is responsible for investigating complaints and addressing code violations, according to the city’s website. A homeless camp cleanup involves contacting individuals to move their belongings, giving them notice before the cleanup and removing items from the area for

Serve on a City Board, Commission

individuals to pick up from a safe location, Poelman said.

When the police arrived on scene, they secured the scene and examined it for evidence of a criminal cause of death, Poelman said.

Officials transported the body to the coroner, where an official cause of death will be determined.

Police have reached out to the public for help in apprehending a bank robbery suspect. SHUTTERSTOCK

Colorado has a new minor political party

It’s all about No Labels

BY ALEJANDRO A. ALONSO GALVA COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO

e Secretary of State’s o ce has certi ed the “No Labels Party” as the state’s newest political party.

It gained minor party status by submitting more than 10,000 signatures from potential supporters, making No Labels Colorado’s sixth minor party.

e designation means Colorado voters can register with the party. It also means the No Labels-ers will be able to place nominees on Colorado’s general election ballots without candidates having to individually petition on each campaign cycle.

e national group behind the party says it’s attempting to gain access to general election ballots in all 50 states ahead of the 2024 presidential season.

Where the No Labels Party stands on the big issues

No Labels promotes itself as moderate with cross-partisan appeal. On its national website, a list of policy statements includes balancing the national budget, reducing regulation, shifting federal programs to the states and ensuring energy security, in part by increasing fuel e ciency standards.

On immigration they push for expanding guest worker programs and creating a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants “who meet

strict conditions such as learning English, paying back taxes and passing rigorous background checks.”

On health care they advocate for purchasing health insurance across state lines, allowing Medicare to negotiate with drug companies and expanding the use of nurse practitioners “and other mid-level health care workers providing a wider scope of medical services, such as writing prescriptions.”

No Labels has some history in Colorado e group has been active in previous Colorado elections, including supporting former Republican Sen. Cory Gardner in 2014.

No Labels also created a minor controversy during last year’s midterms when it sent out emails inviting supporters to a private event at Democratic Sen. John Hickenlooper’s house featuring Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia.

No Labels also invited GOP U.S. Senate candidate Joe O’Dea — who was running against Hickenlooper’s fellow Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet — to the event, according to the O’Dea campaign.    Hickenlooper’s o ce denied ever being involved with the No Labels event.

e political action committee associated with the party did not contribute to any Colorado candidates in the last election.

How No Labels got its minor party status, and what’s next

To gain its minor party status, No

e Secretary of State’s o ce approved No Labels’ petition Nov. 4, 2022, and the group submitted their signatures Jan. 4.

In order for No Labels or any minor party to maintain their status in Colorado at least one party nominee for statewide o ce must receive 1 percent of votes cast in the last two

least 1,000 registered voters a liated

Party, the Approval Voting Party, the Green Party of Colorado, the Libertarian Party of Colorado, and the Unity Party of Colorado.

is story is from CPR News, a nonpro t news source. Used by permission. For more, and to support Colorado Public Radio, visit cpr.org.

A voter drop o a ballot the morning of the Nov. 8 election. PHOTO BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON

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Weather and gas prices causing higher utility bills

BY JOSHUA PERRY AND MARK JAFFE THE COLORADO SUN

e spiking energy bills a ecting many Coloradans are caused by colder weather and higher gas prices — factors over which neither regulators nor utilities have control, the Colorado Public Utility Commission reported Wednesday.

Xcel Energy utility bills were on average 52%, or $87, higher in December than they were a year earlier, although some consumers saw their bills double, PUC Chief Economist Erin O’Neill told commissioners in a brie ng.

Commissioner John Gavan said he was struck by the magnitude of the costs and the nancial pressure they are exerting on Coloradans.

“I can’t remember seeing this level of pain in the consumer community since the 1970s and the gas crisis, which I’m old enough to remember,” he said. “So I take this very seriously.”

e rising utility bills follow the approval by the commission of six electricity and gas rate hikes, several allowing for increases due to rising natural gas prices, that have spurred a near-record number of low-income consumers to seek nancial aid to pay their bills.

e state-run Low-income Energy Assistance Plan has received nearly 90,000 requests for bill relief, as of Tuesday, compared with 80,000 for the same period last winter, and has issued $25 million in payments. Energy Outreach Colorado, a nonpro t that helps people with their bills, received 44,000 calls to its HEAT helpline in January.

“ is is an unprecedented number,” said Denise Stepto, a spokeswoman for the nonpro t. “Is it sustainable from month to month?

ere is a lot of pressure to do something.”

e average temperature in December was about 10 degrees

colder than it was in December 2021, O’Neill said, and that means more energy was being consumed to keep homes warm. Additionally, commodity prices for natural gas have increased substantially — 40% higher than last year — which is a cost that utility companies pass directly to consumers. Smart meters, recent investments in solar and wind energy, and time-of-use rates for electricity customers are not signi cantly impacting bill hikes, O’Neill said.

“We share the commission’s concerns and appreciate their e orts to provide greater insight into the causes of higher costs,” Xcel Energy said in a statement. e company said it is adding more low-cost renewable energy and securing competitively priced fuel contracts.

Natural gas continues to be the most reliable and a ordable source to heat its customers’ homes each winter, Xcel also said. e company is the largest utility provider in Colorado with 1.5 million electric customers and 1.6 million gas customers.

e price of natural gas for delivery in February has dropped 26% between December and January, to 56 cents a therm, so February bills may be lower, Commissioner Megan Gilman said. But even if the bill crisis is resolved in the short term, there’s a systemic problem. e market for natural gas is unregulated, Gilman said, and fuel price spikes and severe weather events will continue to make prices and rates volatile.

“What we thought were the extremes before February 2021 are not the extremes anymore,” she said.

Addressing the overarching problem is not simple. Price hikes could be spread over time — Xcel Energy is doing this over 30 months with $500 million in gas charges from

Thick snowfall o County Road 166 in northwestern Elbert County.

PHOTO BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON

2021’s Winter Storm Uri. But that could lead to future price spikes “pancaking” on top of each other, Gilman said. e commission needs to think in the long term, she said.

While the base rates only accounted for 16% of the December increase, both Gilman and Commission Chairman Eric Blank said that the commission should focus on those rates — which they must approve. Blank said the doubling of gas base rates since 2011 didn’t signicantly impact consumers when gas prices were low.

“Now the combination of higher commodity prices and the doubling of base rates really puts us in a different world and creates much more a ordability pressure,” Blank said.

More attention should be paid to what investments utilities make before the companies come to the commission to add them to the rates customers pay.

Another concern that commissioners expressed is Xcel Energy’s lack of incentive. Blank said there ought to be an alignment of interests between the company and its customers.

“When customers lose, utilities should share some of the pain,” he said.

Gilman said that the mechanism that just passes the cost of natural gas, high or low, on to consumers is also a problem.

“Since it’s a direct pass-through, they do not have an incentive to get you more expensive gas,” Gilman said. “ ey also don’t have an obvious economic incentive to get the cheapest gas they can. So we need to ensure that they have some skin in the game.”

While 60% of the bill increase was driven by factors the commission can’t control — gas rates and weather — PUC can still have an impact, according to Cindy Schonhaut, director of the Colorado O ce of the Utility Consumer Advocate.

“What they can focus on,” she said, “is the 40% of bills beyond the fuel charges,” such as base rates, xeduse charges and add-ons for speci c projects, like pipeline safety.

is story is from e Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support e Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun.com.

e Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.

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Supporting local groups

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Arapahoe County has awarded over $2 million to nonpro t organizations in the region to support their work in serving the county’s at-risk and underserved populations.

After recommendations from county sta based on submitted applications, the Board of County Commissioners selected 12 organizations out of over 50 applicants for the competitive portion of program. In addition, they funded ten agencies through the safety net portion of the program, which annually supports organizations that supplement the county’s existing safety net services.

is year’s grants range from $8,000 to $400,000, according to the county’s website.

e grants aim to support work in several focus areas including transportation, food assistance, case management, substance abuse treatment, mental and behavioral health treatment, shelter, domestic violence support, a ordable housing and employment skills training, according to the website.

“ e big thing about Aid to Agencies is it’s these (agencies) help with the quick response on things because that’s what they’re built to do in those categories,” county spokesperson Anders Nelson said.

It is challenging for a county to

quickly respond to all community challenges on its own, so funding nonpro ts helps the county team up with organizations that are more specialized to respond to community needs, he added.

Doctors Care, a Littleton-based healthcare nonpro t organization, received $14,888 through the competitive grant program.

“Doctors Care is very excited to once again be a recipient of the Aid to Agencies grant,” Elizabeth Hockaday, development and marketing director, said. “For us, it shows true partnership in the community to receive the grant.”

She said the grant money will go towards a new behavioral health advocate on sta and work to address social determinants of health, which is a subset cause of mental health issues.

“Receiving this grant helps to keep Doctors Care as an access point for Littleton and Arapahoe County,” she said. “It’s helping us to address the mental health crisis.”

Other competitive grant recipients included Ability Connection, Integrated Family Community Services, Second Chance Center, Inc., Justice and Mercy Legal Aid Center and more.

rough the safety net program, Gateway Domestic Violence Services received $300,000.

e money supports all of the organization’s work, including emergency shelter services for those leaving abusive situations, an extended stay program, a court advocacy pro-

WINTER Cu ural Series

gram and counseling and emotional support services, executive director Karmen Carter said.

“Without (Aid to Agencies) funding, we would really have to look at signi cantly cutting back on our programming,” she said. “ ey really allow us to be able to continue to look each year at what we can do continue to keep our all of our programs active and moving in important ways in the community.”

Other large grant recipients in safety net portion of the program included STRIDE Senior Dental Services with $400,000 and Aurora Mental Health Center — Detox with $280,000.

“ ere is no way the county can

fund every organization to the level of their need every year, but we do try to spread our resources throughout the county on a variety of e orts in such a way that the greatest number of Arapahoe County citizens receives assistance,” District 3 Commissioner Je Baker wrote in an email statement.

Nelson said the funds for the program come from a designated portion of the county’s budget each year. is year, the budget included $2.6 million for the Aid to Agencies program and the county used $2,079,500 for grants. e money the county did not use for grants will be shifted to other areas of need, Nelson said.

The Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association is proud to present our ever-popular Winter Cultural Series. Please join us for this four-part, family friendly series, all showcasing unique local talent that is sure to entertain the whole family!

Arapahoe County’s annual budget has steadily increased year-over-year, now nearing nearly half a billion dollars. PHOTO BY ROBERT TANN

Thu 2/09

Cooking with Elle

@ 5pm Feb 9th - Mar 2nd

Heather Gardens Clubhouse, 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way, Aurora

Featured

ARTS: Valentine Tea @ Southwest @ 6pm Denver Parks and Recreation (SOU), 9200 W Saratoga Pl., Denver. 720-913-0654

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Vanimal Kingdom Duo at Lincoln Station @ 6pm

Lincoln Station Coffee/Pizza/Mu‐sic, 9360 Station St, Lone Tree

Larry & Joe: WORKSHOP: Venezuelan Strings @ 6pm Swallow Hill Music, 71 E Yale Ave, Denver

Outta Nowhere

@ 7pm Stampede, 2430 S Havana St, Aurora

Joe Troop: Swallow Hill Music Association - Larry & Joe @ 8pm Swallow Hill Music Association, 71 E Yale Ave, Denver

Fri 2/10

Dead On A Sunday @ 7pm

Moe's Original BBQ, 3295 S Broadway, Englewood

Sat 2/11

Featured

The Atomic Drifters: 105 WEST BREWING COMPANY WILL RO-C-K @ 6:30pm 105 West Brewing Company, 1043 Park St, Castle Rock

The King Stan Band in Paradise @ 7pm

Paradise Tavern, 9239 Park Mead‐ows Dr, Lone Tree

Amor y Cumbia

@ 8:30pm / $49

Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora

ARTS: DIY Valentine Card Making @ Harvey Park @ 11:30pm

Harvey Park Recreation Center, 2120 S. Tennyson Way, Denver. 720-913-0654

Parker Parks and Recreation Love 'em or Leave 'em

Valentine's Day 5K/10K @ 10am / $40-$50

11920 Motsenbocker Rd, Parker

Halfway There Bon Jovi

Tribute: **MegaShow Alert** Bon Jovi and Journey Tributes Take Over Wild Goose Saloon @ 7pm Wild Goose Saloon, Parker

Cory Michael @ 2pm Wide Open Saloon, 5607 US-85, Sedalia

Kids Cooking Valentine Surprises @ 4pm PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker

YS: 3-4 Sports Experience @ Southwest @ 5:30pm Feb 11th - Mar 4th

Southwest Recreation Center, 9200 W. Saratoga Pl., Denver. 720-913-0654

Halfway There @ 7:30pm

Wild Goose Saloon, 11160 S. Pikes Peak Drive, Parker 0xxKBxx0: KBS FRIENDS TOUR: SINGLES VALENTINES @ 8pm Old Chicago, 16990 E Iliff Ave, Aurora

Rubblebucket @ 8pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

Spaceface @ 9pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

Rubblebucket @ 9pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

Sun 2/12

Featured Featured

Super Sunday Fun Run 5K @ 10am / $20

6745 S Santa Fe Dr, 6745 South Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. SarahN@ ssprd.org, 303-483-7034

RAZA COSTENA @ 9pm

Stampede, 2430 S Havana St, Aurora

Gran Baile Costeno @ 9:30pm / $55

Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora

Tue 2/14

Stop Motion AnimationMackintosh Spring 2023 @ 3:45pm / $200

Feb 14th - Apr 25th

Mackintosh Academy, 7018 S Prince St, Littleton. 720-996-0894

Fitness: HIGH Fitness Valentine's Party (13+ yrs) Feb. 14 @ 11:15pm

Parker Recreation Center, 17301 E Lincoln Ave., Parker

Wed 2/15

Casino - Bally's @ 2:45pm Heather Gardens Clubhouse, 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way, Aurora

Thu 2/16

ARTS: Mini Picasso @ Harvard Gulch @ 5pm

Feb 16th - Mar 16th

Harvard Gulch Recreation Center, 550 E. Iliff Ave., Denver. 720-913-0654

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B

Average is OK

eing average is OK. I will say that again. Being average is OK.

EDITOR’S COLUMN

I recently started listening to the book “ e Subtle Art of Not Giving a F#@@.” I have to admit my husband recommended it a couple of years ago. However, the vulgar title turned me o a bit. en, recently, my brother recommended it after I was complaining about something that bugged me. He said I let too much bother me and this book might help get some perspective.

Thelma Grimes

But, as he teaches me how to maybe set realistic expectations and not care about so much that really does not matter in the big picture — the book is also great at putting in perspective how being average is OK because, frankly, the majority of us are just average.

As parents we want our children to be great at everything, have all the opportunities and succeed at everything they do. In reality, we are all good at what we are good at. We are all not great at everything we try.

I may be good at writing, but I am de nitely below average when it comes to trying to solve math problems when I help kids with homework. In college, getting a C in math was a blessing, really.

According to Manson, “Being ‘average’ has become the new standard of failure. e worst thing you can be is in the middle of the pack, the middle of the bell curve. When a culture’s standard of success is to “be extraordinary,” it then becomes better to be at the extreme low end of the bell curve than to be in the middle, because at least there you’re still special and deserve attention.”

When the expectations are set so high — How can anyone live up to them? at’s become part of society’s problem and probably a contributing factor to mental illness and depression rates skyrocketing. When we set these high expectations that we really cannot reach — We feel like failures.

When we see on Facebook and other social media how friends and family are living these amazing lives — We judge our own as failures. Never mind that in reality, people are only sharing their best days, their best moments on these social outlets. at does not matter. It only means we do not measure up.

As a society, imagine what would happen if we started being realistic in our goals and expectations. My son loves hockey. He’s not the best at it — he’s average. For me, that is OK.

My daughter is never going to be great at school. She is average. at is OK.

I am the poster child for setting too many expectations for myself. With each thing I fail at — I only work harder, set more goals and try more.

For my children, however, I have started working toward setting realistic goals. Play hockey if you love it. Who cares if you are great at it as long as you are doing your best and trying?

Try out for the school play. Who knows, you may be great at it, but just have fun.

If, as a society, we start realizing the majority of us are average — We might start feeling a lot more OK with ourselves and the world around us.

elma Grimes is the south metro editor for Colorado Community Media.

WINNING

I started listening to it — and was impressed with how the author, Mark Manson, really pegs our society, our struggles and the unrealistic expectations we put on ourselves and each other.Playing through the pain

T

“Vote no on 300” should raise eyebrows. Because 300 aligns Littleton with state code. e letter claims Ballot Question 300 is “undemocratic” and that “its passage has the potential for narrow special interests to drive future city policies.” Really? Is it “undemocratic” for residents of the city working together to make their voices heard — above powerful corporate real estate developers now driving high-density urbanization? Ballot Question 300 would lower petition signature thresholds for citizen-led referenda and initiatives. Is the concern of the Jan. 19 letter that the special interests would be marginalized by improving resident access to the ballot?

e letter further objects that a majority of signature gatherers live south of Ridge Road

80110

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com

MICHAEL DE YOANNA Editor-in-Chief michael@coloradocommunitymedia.com

THELMA GRIMES South Metro Editor tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com

NINA JOSS Community Editor njoss@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

SEE NORTON, P15

That story was shared with me about a high school athlete who had the heart of a lion. After that last play his coach called him to the sideline as he knew somethingand that few are apartment dwellers. Who is still unaware that residents most adversely impacted by the “development machine” are those living closest to the proposed location of high-density development? ey will experience the greatest loss of nature’s aesthetics and community character, and the greatest increases in tra c congestion, pollution and crime.

e letter also objects that comparatively few apartment dwellers signed the petition. is may be because apartment dwellers, for the most part, do not have the nancial and time investment in their community that homeowners do. Conversations with some renters reveal that while several expressed great concern about city o cials’ rush to urbanize our neighborhoods, comparatively

SEE LETTERS, P39

Littleton A publication of

Independent (ISSN 1058-7837)(USPS 315-780) A LOCAL VOICES LOCAL

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN FRANKS Production Manager efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Columnists & Guest Commentaries

Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Independent. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Deadline Wed. for the following week’s paper.

PERIODICALS

an outside linebacker, the opposing team threw a pass play in his direction, and with his good hand he was still able to make a play on the ball and deflect the pass. He played through the pain.

Radon: the leading cause of cancer in people who don’t smoke

GUEST COLUMN

Be ing a lifelong health enthusiast, health educator and fitness trainer — and married to a primary care physician — my family and I were blindsided by my Stage 3A lung cancer diagnosis in October of 2018. We were shocked as I had no respiratory symptoms and I have never smoked.

My cancer was found incidentally while investigating what later turned out to be a benign ovarian cyst.

It wasn’t until my son, an environmental engineer, asked me if I had ever tested our home for radon when I learned that virtually anyone with lungs can get lung cancer and that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. It is the first leading cause of lung cancer in people who don’t have a history of smoking.

NORTON

wasn’t right and he took him out of the game. And indeed, his hand was broken.

Each of us has probably lived through at least one season of life, if not many where we also played through the pain. It might have been personally or professionally, but we knew that no matter how much it hurt, we had to rise to the occasion and play through the pain for those around us.

If these last few years have taught us anything, they have taught us that things in life are broken. Education, healthcare, the economy, relationships, things at work and just about every other part of life. Some things just aren’t working the way we would want them to. And it becomes frustrating as we do our best to muddle through only to hit the wall again and again.

We think that there must be a better way. We believe that there must be someone somewhere who has the insight and intelligence to fix the problems in our government, in society, in the workplace, and even at home. We ask ourselves, who is that person or where are those people who are supposed to have all the answers? And what can we do while we wait for those in charge to come up with a better plan and get things moving in the right direction?

We start playing through the pain.

Soon enough we will realize that the people who we believe have the solutions to our problems and challenges might be struggling themselves. And it’s not that they don’t know what they are doing, it’s simply that the problems and challenges require more time,

Considering the risk for lung cancer is high, why aren’t people exposed to high radon levels eligible for lung cancer screening? The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends people ages 50-80 with a 20-pack year history of smoking, or have quit in the past 15 years, get a low dose CT scan, which is painless and takes only a few minutes.

Based on the conversation with our son, we tested our home using methods recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency and discovered that the radon levels in our home were elevated above the threshold of 4 pico curies (pCi/L). The EPA strongly advises that any radon level at or above 4 pCi/L should be reduced through a radon mitigation system. Radon mitigation needs to be done by professionally accredited operators and most health departments — including the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment — post lists of accredited mitigators. Radon is an invisible and odorless radioactive gas that can be found in many homes. It comes from the decomposition of

money, resources, planning and processes to get some resolutions and to turn things around for the better. And while that is going on, we need to do our very best to do what we are in control of doing, making a play, even if it means playing through the pain.

We can remain optimistic in the face of negativity and pessimism. We can look at our stack of to-do items and get after it without looking over at others who are paralyzed by the dysfunction. We can help those in our community who need help and do it generously and cheerfully knowing we are serving the greater good. Now don’t get me wrong, it doesn’t mean we don’t also feel the frustration and the challenges. It doesn’t mean the pain and the problems aren’t just as real for us. It just means that we have a choice to make, we can choose to get sucked into the vortex of doom and gloom, pointing to all the reasons why we cannot be successful, or we can choose to do our part in playing our position as best as we possibly can, even if it means playing through the pain at times.

We are all part of a team somewhere. At work, home, school, church, in our community and in society. And it will never be perfect and will often be frustrating. As a part of a team or family, I would love to hear your story of how you deal with staying motivated in the face of frustration at gotonorton@ gmail.com. And when we can grit and smile, and play through the pain when we need to, it really will be a better than good life.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.

uranium in soil, rock and water and gets into the air you breathe. When inhaled, radon can cause serious health problems including lung cancer. About half of all homes in Colorado have radon levels above the recommended limit of 4 pCi/L.

While there is no way for me to know with certainty if radon caused my lung cancer, I want people to know it is one risk factor that can be tested for and reduced to safe levels very easily. I also want people to know that smoking and exposure to radon are not the only risk factors for lung cancer and that many people develop lung cancer despite having no known risk factors. Exposure to secondhand smoke, family history of lung cancer and air pollution are risk factors for lung cancer. Report any persistent symptoms you have to your doctor. Being young and having no known history of tobacco use does not make you immune to lung cancer, even if the risk is low.

Despite the well-known risks of radon, it concerns me that there isn’t more public health messag-

ing about radon, especially given its high prevalence in Colorado and many other states. The EPA estimates that radon kills approximately 21,000 people in the U.S. every year and about 2,900 of these deaths occur among people who have never smoked. These numbers may be a low estimate, as I know my doctor never asked me if I knew the radon level of my home when I was diagnosed. In fact, only a small number of family physicians transmit radon information to their patients. Please consider testing your home for radon at least every two years as recommended by the EPA because levels can change due to movement of soil, or new cracks in the foundation. Even if you have a mitigation system, testing is still recommended. A mitigation system is like any other appliance, and it can malfunction or stop working. Learn more about radon and radon mitigation from the EPA and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

OBITUARIES

SCHWARZWELLER

Alan Thomas Schwarzweller

February 20, 1994 - January 23, 2023

Alan omas Schwarzweller, 28, died unexpectedly from a stroke on January 23, 2023 at Littleton Hospital. Alan was born in Denver on February 20, 1994. Alan is survived by his loving parents, Linda Hellow and Paul Schwarzweller, and closely bonded brothers Kyle and Eric. He also leaves behind many loving cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Alan attended Hopkins Elementary School, Euclid Middle School, and Heritage High School. Alan was an active Boy Scout with local BSA Troop 456 where he enjoyed many extraordinary experiences. Alan attended Arapahoe Community College and University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. He earned an Associate’s Degree as well as certi cations in various digital platforms. At the time of his death, he was beginning a search for a new career in information technology and was looking forward to using his computer skills to serve a non-pro t working on social justice or system change issues.

Ever curious about how the world works, Alan was self-taught in philosophy, theology, history, political and economic systems,

JUDKINS

Fredric Ray Judkins passed away on December 17, 2022 from a heart attack at the age of 69.

digital currencies, and block chain technology. He was a proli c commentator and blogger on various online platforms where he established friends (and maybe a few foes) throughout the world. Alan was a strong advocate for social and economic justice, and projects that support equity and inclusion.

Alan was the type of person who didn’t worry too much about personal accomplishments. Rather he devoted his energies to being kind and lifting people up. In a high school essay, he wrote: “In the end, what happens in your life and the things you have, and everything else, doesn’t matter. People won’t remember what you did, but who you are.”

Alan was an intelligent, kind, and empathetic young man and he will be missed dearly. As his nal parting gift, Alan donated his organs and tissue to others in need of being “lifted up.”

e family will hold a Celebration of Life in February. In Alan’s memory, you may like to contribute to the American Civil Liberties Union, Denver DSA, or your favorite artist on Patreon.

Fredric Ray Judkins

May 9, 1953 - December 17, 2022

Fred was born in El Centro, California, spent most of his life in Burbank, California, and retired in Littleton, Colorado.

An Emmy award-winning sound editor, Fred co-published over two dozen Christian children’s musicals that are performed by choirs around the world.

ose who want to share memories should visit everloved.com/life-of/fredric-judkins

Heidi Nafman Onda is a cancer survivor and health educator

Heidi Nafman Onda

The most vulnerable of the housing crisis The Long Way Home

BY MICHAEL DE YOANNA MICHAEL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Our monthlong series exploring the affordability and accessibility of housing in the Denver area takes a turn to one of the most perplexing issues facing our communities: the lives of those who have no homes. Point-in-time counts in Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties find 2,000 people living unsheltered and 3,000 in emergency shelters. Most of those people were found in Denver but many live in our communities and neighborhoods.

While panhandlers and tent cities are visible across the metro area, many of the unhoused are unseen and may not even be included in the numbers because they are sleeping on a friend’s couch or a family that’s living in a relative’s extra room. e federal government includes this status in its de nition of homelessness, along with those who are at imminent risk of losing a roof over their heads.  Homelessness has long

been a problem in the metro area and the soaring housing costs that we’ve tracked in our series certainly don’t help. Typically, a family shouldn’t spend more than 30% of their wages on rent and utilities. Elsewhere in our series, we’ve found that many people across the metro area are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to afford a place to live. Minimum wage earners might spend upward of 60% of their paychecks on rent.

Across the Front Range, rising housing costs are worsening the problem. In Littleton, south of Denver, the price of single-family homes has jumped roughly $300,000 since 2017. Lone Tree saw increases in excess of $473,000.

In Brighton, $225,000.

Apartment rents have followed in recent years, part of a trend spanning the last two decades where median prices rose faster than median household incomes “in every Colorado county and city with 50,000+ residents,” according to Denver-based Root Policy Research, which analyzes housing affordability issues.

at Jake’s Brew Bar in Littleton since 2012.

“ is is where I want to be,” Laney said. “My friends and family are Jake’s.”

In numerous counties, residents — spanning a range of employment from the service industry to teaching — have faced the brunt of what many ofcials are calling a housing crisis.

e median price of a single-family home in the metro area has roughly tripled since 2010, according to an August 2022 report by the Colorado Association of Realtors. Back in 2010, the median price was about $200,000.

And wages have not kept up with home costs. Between 2000 and 2019, median rents rose at a faster rate than household incomes “in every Colorado county and city with 50,000+ residents,” according to a November 2021 report from Denver-based consulting rm Root Policy Research. e report also said that, as of June 2021, Colorado’s overall housing inventory was 13% of what is needed for a functioning sales market.

“Quite honestly, we just don’t have enough housing, whether it’s a ordable or otherwise,” said Kelly Milliman, city council member for Littleton’s District 4 and a member of the city’s housing task force. “It’s really vitally important to the overall health of our community going forward.”

Some of the most needy in our communities find homes through federal funding, like vouchers. But the system, reporter Nina Joss finds, is based on lotteries, where people in need of housing may wait for years before winning. Others wind up roughing it on the streets, as reporters Andrew Fraieli and Olivia Love discovered in an interview of a man who lost his legs sleeping under a highway bridge during a horrific snowstorm. There are consequences to it all, like how the mentally ill are especially vulnerable to homelessness and highly likely to find themselves in the criminal-justice system — meaning a record of police contacts for crimes connected to their situation, such as trespassing, becomes a barrier that prevents them from turning their lives around. There are costs associated with this to taxpayers, like those associated with providing more policing and beds in jails. Trends like those will be on the radar of Colorado Community Media’s newsroom in

Contributors to the project include:

e sentiment is similar for leaders in the neighboring cities of Englewood and Sheridan. ere, o cials said a ordable home options used to be more common.

“For the people that can a ord it, they have lots of choices in the metro area,” said Brad Power, Englewood’s director of community development.

“But we’re starting to see more gaps with people who are on the other side of the income spectrum.”

Devin Granberry, city manager for Sheridan, said

higher home costs have driven workers out of what he described as a historically blue-collar area.

“It leads to a very transient pipeline of citizenry and workforce,” he said. “ ere’s no sense of belonging, there’s no sense of ownership, and all of those are negative impacts on a community, the well-being of a community.”

Orchard Crossing Apartments in Westminster is an a ordable housing community that also includes housing for people with vouchers.

PHOTO BY ANDREW FRAIELI

Homelessness is a series of trapdoors and obstacles

BY ANDREW FRAIELI AND OLIVIA LOVE COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Jonathan Townshend Garner spent nine sleepless nights in 2017 covered in snow staring up at the bottom of a frozen overpass in Aurora. Just a few short months before, the 35-year-old was planning to purchase a condo with his girlfriend.

He never expected that a breakup would send him down a series of increasingly di cult trapdoors — without housing or insurance, each door became harder to climb through. Because of those cold nights in 2017, Garner even lost his legs.

What led Garner to homelessness is not unique. As homeless rates continue to climb in this country for people in many di erent situations, the causes can range from one lost paycheck to addiction or mental health issues with no money to support treatment.

In Garner’s case, he was in a stable housing situation that was reliant on two incomes. e loss of a girlfriend meant the loss of a second, necessary paycheck.

“I’m all of a sudden in a situation where I’ve lost half my income in regards to what’s going towards payments,” Garner said.

Homelessness a ects many types of people. It also comes in all forms from living on the streets to couch sur ng or sleeping in a car. Common among all situations that have forced someone into homelessness is the world around them not being designed to help.

According to HUD fair market rent data, rent for a studio apartment in the metro area has increased by more than $300 per month since 2019, but minimum wages have only increased by about $2.50 an hour — increasing the percent of wages needed to be put towards housing from 54 to almost 60%.

e National Low Income Housing Coalition — a nonpro t that aims to end the a ordable housing crisis through policy and data research — deems housing costing more than 30% of wages spent on rent and utilities as una ordable, placing workers at risk for homelessness.

is lack of a ordable housing acts doubly as a factor for becoming homeless and a barrier from escaping it.

Unable to deal with the breakup and loss of income, Garner said it triggered a dormant alcohol addiction.

“As soon as she left, I started drinking again too, which was probably one of the worst decisions that I made,” he said. “And I’m a hell of a drinker. It took me no time before I was drinking before work every day.”

His addiction became another trapdoor. He was evicted from his home as his costly addiction grew, losing his job within a few months, and he continued falling until he landed on the streets.

In 2017, he found himself buried by snowdrifts, numbed to the elements by frostbite and an empty bottle.

Over the next three and a half months, he was in an ICU burn unit,

where his legs were amputated for frostbite. What happened to land him there remains a blur, with Garner saying he was just lost in a blizzard of snow and substance abuse.

Garner had not looked for a shelter because he felt he deserved what he was experiencing on the street, his addiction giving him too much bluster to ask for help.

“And so when things have gotten so bad for me, I was like, ‘I guess that’s where you go when you’re at this place,’” Garner said.

But from Aurora to Lakewood, many who look for shelter have a hard time nding it — especially in winter.

The stick and carrot of winter shelter

“Police show up to tell you to leave, but don’t have an answer as to where we can go,” said Marshall Moody, who experienced homelessness in Lakewood over the summer.

He wasn’t hunting for winter shelter, but acknowledging how there were no shelter options in Lakewood, and describing how he felt harassed by police telling him to move along.

In Aurora, one of the only overnight shelter spaces is the Comitis Crisis Center.

“Comitis has, what, 30 beds? I’m sure there’s easily 200 homeless people in Aurora. Easily,” said Jason, 40, who declined to give his last name, pointing out the lack of shelter options.

Jason has been homeless since 2019, falling on hard times after breaking his back and not having the ability to a ord medical care.

Anna Miller, director of business development and public relations at Mile High Behavioral Healthcare — which Comitis Crisis Center falls under — has said before that the center has an outreach team that goes out every day working with the city and police department to inform

people on the streets about available resources. e organization was supportive of Aurora’s camping ban passed last summer.

But like the ban, these opinions are from the summer.

During the winter, many more people experiencing homelessness look for indoor shelter due to low temperatures, snow, rain and windchills causing regular, local shelters to ll up fast.

is is where short-term emergency weather shelters come in.

For much of the metro area, the “extreme weather” needed to open these emergency shelters — which vary from the Severe Weather Shelter Network across Je erson County that uses a network of churches, to opening some day-only centers for overnight stays — requires the temperature to be freezing or below with moisture, and 20 degrees or below without moisture.

In Denver, the required cuto is 10 degrees or six inches of snow — though, according to Sabrina Allie, the communications and engagement director for the Department of Housing Stability — or HOST — in Denver, the city council has asked the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment, which created the cuto , to revisit these regulations.

e issue is that cold-weather injuries like frostbite and hypothermia can set in as high as 45 degrees depending on wind and moisture. is is according to doctors from Denver Health and the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, which sent a joint letter to HOST and DDPHE asking the city to raise their cuto .

“Hypothermia and frostbite may develop in minutes and often occur in the setting of risk factors for heat loss or decreased heat production including pre-existing medical conditions, exhaustion, dehydration, substance use and

malnutrition, all of which are common among people experiencing homelessness,” doctors said in the letter.

Some see winter shelter as a carrotand-stick situation though, requiring the cuto to not be too comfortable for those experiencing homelessness.

“We do not want to enable, we want to empower,” said Lynn Ann Huizingh, executive director of development at Je erson County’s Severe Weather Shelter Network. “We do the best we can to provide some good relational development, but we also want to encourage people to pursue answers that would lead them o the street, and if they get too comfortable, they just don’t have any reason to try and pursue anything else.”

However, at all times, the goal is to keep people from freezing to death, Huizingh added.

Aurora’s policy, according to Emma Knight, manager of homelessness for the city’s Division of Housing and Community Services, is to open emergency cold-weather shelters at 32 degrees during wet weather, and 20 degrees otherwise.

In Garner’s case, freezing to death almost became a reality. Instead, he left the hospital as a double amputee — disabled, homeless, and penniless.

“And I wish I could have said that that was my rock bottom as well. But it wasn’t,” Garner said.

Police interactions and laws against homelessness

Over the next nine months, Garner continued drinking and using drugs while trying to condition himself to his surroundings.

“ ere isn’t a rock bottom, there isn’t some stable ground that you hit. It is a series of trapdoors that gets progressively lower on to in nity,” Garner said.

Some of these trapdoors take the shape of police interactions and the possibility of jail time due to criminalization of homelessness. In the summer of 2022, Aurora passed a camping ban, following in the footsteps of Denver, which passed a similar measure a decade ago.

“Can’t camp, but you have only one shelter in the city of Aurora,” Jason said, referring to the Comitis Crisis Center. “ e camping ban doesn’t mean we can’t be outside — that’s really the main point — the camping ban means we can’t be safe outside.”

Terese Howard, homeless advocate and founder of Housekeys Action Network Denver, said these bans just push people around, possibly into more dangerous and secluded areas if they don’t just move a block away from where they were before.

Police harassment often comes out of these laws as well, Howard said. O cers will tell people experiencing homelessness to “move along” without o ering alternatives, according to Howard.

Denver’s camping ban speci es “shelter” to include “blankets, or any

Jonathan Townshend Garner, 35, lost his legs to frostbite after spending days covered in snow while homeless.

PHOTO BY ANDREW FRAIELI

The di culties of using housing choice vouchers

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

About a year and a half ago, David Hernandez received a call from a number he did not recognize. When he called the number back, he heard news that would drastically change his housing situation.

“I was confused,” he said. “At rst I was like, ‘What are you talking about?’ She’s like, ‘You got chose (from the) lottery, so we’d like to go forward with it.’”

At the time, Hernandez was living with his grandmother in Westminster. But then, after spending years unmoored, moving between states and staying with family members, Hernandez got approved for a voucher for government-subsidized housing.

“When I got it, it was a big relief,” he said. “It was so much stress that was taken o my conscience … It was kind of lifesaving, to be honest.”

e news was a complete surprise to him. What Hernandez didn’t know is that it took ve years for that call to come. His aunt had signed him up for a housing choice voucher lottery at Maiker Housing Partners, the public housing authority in Adams County, without telling him.

anks to her action, his unknowing patience, and, some would say, his luck, Hernandez became one of 2.3 million families and individuals in the United States to bene t from a housing choice voucher program, federally funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD.

Formerly, housing choice voucher programs were known as Section 8, but experts have widely replaced this language in an e ort to be more accurate about the type of rental assistance and to avoid the stigma the term carries with it.

Housing choice voucher programs, which are implemented by local authorities like Maiker, subsidize rent to help “very low-income families, the elderly and the disabled a ord decent, safe and sanitary housing,” according to HUD.

On one hand, vouchers make it possible for those without other options to have a roof over their heads.

But, according to housing experts, the program is not a fast-track to housing for many people in need, as it faces a range of issues from lack of funding to scarcity of units.

Eligibility

Within housing choice voucher programs, vouchers may be earmarked by local authorities for di erent types of rental assistance.

For example, some public housing authorities o er vouchers speci cally for veterans or for families whose lack of adequate housing is the primary cause of the separation of a child from their family.

Another type is what HUD calls “project-based” vouchers. ese offer rental assistance that can only be used for speci c properties approved by the public housing authority. is is the type of voucher Hernandez received.

Hernandez said the voucher helped him nancially, emotionally, physi-

cally and mentally, but being tied to one apartment complex has its downfalls. If he could choose, he said, he would rather live in a place with di erent management. In his complex, he feels like he and his neighbors are treated poorly, partially because they have low incomes.

But the most common type of housing choice voucher allows a recipient to choose where they want to live among properties in the private market. A HUD senior o cial told Colorado Community Media in a call that after 12 months, participants in the project-based voucher program can typically request to have this type of voucher, which is more open-ended.

Properties for a typical housing choice voucher must meet standards of health and safety before a tenant can move forward with a lease. In addition, public housing authorities review rents to ensure they are reasonable for the speci c housing market, according to HUD.

Families with vouchers generally pay 30%-40% of their monthly adjusted gross income for rent and utilities, according to HUD. e public housing authority covers the rest.

In Colorado, landlords are required to accept housing choice vouchers and are not allowed to discriminate against rental applicants based on source of income, per a 2021 law.

e voucher approval process begins with an application, said Brenda Mascarenas, director of housing services and programs at Maiker.

“ e couple of things we look at under formal eligibility (are) background, income, and citizenship,” she said.

Generally, a household’s income may not exceed 50% of the median income for the county or metropolitan area. But most vouchers go to applicants with incomes much lower than that. By law, a public housing authority must provide three quarters of its vouchers to applicants whose incomes do not exceed 30% of the area median income, according to HUD.

In Adams and Arapahoe counties, a single person who earned no more

than $41,050 was eligible for a housing choice voucher in 2022, according to Maiker and South Metro Housing Options, a public housing authority in Littleton.

Wait times and lotteries

Unfortunately, the likelihood of getting a voucher is not solely dependent on whether a person is eligible.

Because of lack of funding for the program, HUD acknowledges “long waiting periods are common.” e o cial with HUD, speaking generally about the department, told Colorado Community Media that for households that receive a voucher, the average wait time is 28 months. e o cial noted that this number only includes people who actually receive a voucher, so the true average wait time is likely signi cantly longer.

Some public housing authorities use a lottery system to select voucher recipients. At Maiker, Mascarenas said the team aims to open their lottery pool every other year, meaning applicants could wait up to two years if they are selected from the lottery their rst time. If not, they might wait through several cycles.

At South Metro Housing Options, the voucher waitlist was last open in 2012, Executive Director Corey Reitz said. ey anticipate it opening again this year, more than 11 years later.

ese long wait times are not unique. Only two housing agencies among the 50 largest in the U.S. have average wait times of under one year for families that make it o of wait lists for vouchers, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan research and policy institute based in Washington, D.C.

To Hernandez’s bene t, he wasn’t aware he was waiting for his voucher. He said it would have been challenging to be in “limbo” for so long.

“If I would have known I’d have to wait ve years for that, I probably personally wouldn’t have done it,” he said.

Peter LiFari, executive director at Maiker,  attributes long waitlists at public housing authorities to lack of

federal funding and a massive demand for housing vouchers.

“It’s a program designed to exist in scarcity, which is really disappointing,” he said. “I get emails every day, basically from folks (saying) ‘How do I sign up?’ and ‘I’m homeless and I’ve never asked for help before and I’m ready now,’ and it’s like, unfortunately we don’t we don’t have the vouchers to be able to meet the need.”

Because of limited funding for HUD, designated by Congress each year, only 1 in 4 households eligible for a housing voucher receive any federal rental assistance, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

e HUD o cial interviewed by CCM agreed that a main shortcoming of the program is that there are not enough vouchers. e o cial said rental assistance programs are an outlier compared to other federal safety net programs in that many people qualify but do not receive the support. e o cial attributed the lack of funding to the fact that the voucher program was created in the 1970s, after other programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program were already underway.

Congress increased funding into the voucher program throughout the pandemic, but the funding generally went to special populations as opposed to the entire program, LiFari said. e American Rescue Plan Act, for example, provided 70,000 emergency vouchers to assist individuals in violent, dangerous or homeless situations. Mascarenas said Maiker received 46 vouchers from the funding.

Last year, the Biden administration awarded more than 19,000 housing choice vouchers to more than 2,000 public housing authorities. Twentynine of the authorities are in Colorado, including agencies in Adams County, Je erson County, Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Englewood and Arvada.

But even with the extra funding, housing authority employees say it is challenging to keep up with the demand.

“One of the challenges with any … new sources of funding to support housing, it’s still administering the money and the funds and the vouchers,” said Reitz from South Metro. “So we still need sta to do so. And we’re no di erent than most other agencies or industries right now in terms of sta ng, so that’s a challenge.”

e demand for vouchers in Adams County is higher than Mascarenas has ever seen.

“I’ve been with Maiker for 30 years and I’ve never seen the market in such a bad condition,” she said. “I’ve never seen the need grow so great.”

Maiker has about 1,625 housing choice vouchers to distribute in Adams County. In July 2022, the last time their lottery was open for applications, over 3,500 people applied.

“Even two-parent households are still nding it very di cult to make ends meet with two incomes coming into the home,” Mascarenas said.

Next to his kitchen, David Hernandez has a DJ setup where he likes to mix music for fun.

PHOTO BY ANDREW FRAIELI

form of cover or protection from the elements other than clothing.”

“ ere’s this illusion that you need this stick to connect people to services,” Howard said. “ at’s a lie, it doesn’t work. You can just look back at the last 10 years of Denver to see the reality of that lie. It’s meant, rst and foremost, to push people out of sight, out of mind.”

According to one national study from 2013, criminalization can create a cycle of incarceration that perpetuates itself.

Noting a loop of jail time and homelessness, the report says: “Incarceration has been noted to increase the risk of homelessness” as it can weaken community ties, limit employment opportunities and make it more di cult to get public housing.

“ is bidirectional association between homelessness and incarceration may result in a certain amount of cycling between public psychiatric hospitals, jails and prisons, and homeless shelters or the street,” the report concludes.

A homeless count across the metro area

Nationwide, at the start of every year, a count is taken to try and estimate the unsheltered homeless population.

At the same time, a count is made of people who have stayed in a participating shelter at some point across the country. ese counts are run by HUD through volunteering shelters and local governments.

In the 2022 point-in-time count across Je erson, Broom eld, Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas and Denver counties, there were nearly 2,000 people living unsheltered, and just over 3,000 in emergency shelters.

According to the data, most of the homeless population is in Denver.  HUD’s de nition of homelessness includes those who are in imminent risk of losing their housing. However, the annual report does not include that data or consider people who are couch sur ng, or temporarily living at a friend or family member’s home.

Jason had been working, but with a broken back, he could no longer work or a ord needed medical care.

Like Garner, Jason requires a wheelchair to get around, which creates another level of di culties for those experiencing homelessness.

The cost of a disability

One day in the spring of 2018, Gar-

VOUCHERS

She attributed part of the higher demand to the pandemic, which impacted many workers and families.

Another theory comes from Reitz, who said higher demand could be because salaries and wages have not kept up with rising housing costs.

Unit scarcity

In addition to the lack of funding, LiFari said the lack of physical housing supply is a detriment to the function of housing voucher program.

“We just don’t have enough units,” he said. “We don’t even have enough housing to support folks that are above the poverty line … because we just abandoned building for one another.”

ner’s wheelchair got caught in some weeds in a eld. He spent hours there, yelling for help, until a couple happened upon him.

e couple befriended Garner, brought him some basic necessities, and got him into a detox facility. After a few stints, Garner has now been sober for more than four years.

“But the patience that these strangers showed me was something that was unbelievable to me,” Garner said. “I will never forget before they took me in the third time telling them: ‘Well, what if I just do this again? You know, what if I, what if you take me to this detox, you come pick me up, and I just start drinking again?’”

Garner said the couple told him they would keep trying. Services like detox are di cult to use for people with addictions and mental health issues, as they often have no support system to encourage them to go, as well as there often being little state support.

In 2019, a study showed that about 20% of all Americans were a ected by mental illness in the past year. According to e National Coalition for Homelessness the general e ects of various mental illnesses “disrupt people’s ability to carry out essential aspects of daily life,” as well as make social bonds.

“ is often results in pushing away caregivers, family, and friends who may be the force keeping that person from becoming homeless,” the report elaborated.

But the couple that helped Garner in

e lack of units creates scarcity in the housing market, LiFari said. With high demand, competition and rents increase across the region.

As a result, “lower-income Coloradans are left on the outside looking in,” he said.

“ e program can’t run unless there’s houses and units where people live, right?” he said. “So, without that, we’re just creating this ‘Hunger Games’ construct.”

After being chosen for a voucher, the competition begins. People have about two months to nd a home to rent and sign the lease. But that’s not enough time for many folks to nd homes and Maracenas elds many requests for extensions for as many as four more months.

Even with these extensions, LiFari said the highly competitive market presents a challenging dynamic for people to nd

that eld became his support, hosting him until they fell on hard times and divorced.

Eventually, Garner’s friend helped him get a studio apartment in Evergreen, helping to pay rent for the rst three months.

“So I stayed those rst three months and realized I didn’t want to leave,” Garner said.

Garner said without his friend helping with rst and last month’s rent and more in those rst three months, he wouldn’t have been able to a ord it. After the rst three months, Garner continued to stay in the apartment, getting help from friends. He got what he needed, he said, but it wasn’t easy, and it wasn’t how he wanted to live.

“I come from the salt of the earth, blue collar, working folk, you know, and really, at the bottom line, I’m just trying to work in any way I can,” he said. “All I’m trying to do is provide for myself.”

The housing and wage gap

Part of this di culty, especially in Evergreen, is the gap between wages and housing costs.  is lack of a ordable housing acts doubly as a factor for becoming homeless and a barrier from escaping it.

Adam Galbraith works as a bartender at Cactus Jack’s in Evergreen. He said the only reason he can save money at all is because his 1,100-square-foot apartment has four people in it.

“If you’ve got roommates, that’s the only way you’re going to save money,”

vacant units within the time frame. Part of this is because renters must be approved for leases by landlords and there are many barriers that can work against voucher holders – from the potential for discrimination to criminal records

Is it a solution?

In LiFari’s eyes, the housing choice voucher program “only exists as medicine for a misdiagnosed illness.”

Although it certainly makes a di erence in combating homelessness, he said American society and government need to focus more on the root of the problem.

“ e program is a function of how we value people and how we value where they live,” he said. “We refuse to address the root cause of the illness because then we have to view how we view poverty.”

For Hernandez, viewing poverty real-

he said. It’s also the only reason he can live in Evergreen, along with his landlord keeping rent lower than it could be at $1,500, “so locals would rent it.” Others he knows have seen their landlord sell the property and give them two months to get out — he’s had it happen to himself twice.

Evergreen isn’t really the place to perform hip hop on the corner, but Garner had a background in performance and music — participating in rap battles and the underground scene in his younger years under his stage name, LaKryth. After practicing, studying and preparing, he took to the streets with his guitar, not in his wheelchair, but instead standing on prosthetic legs.

“I’m a pretty damn good musician, you know, and I can sing pretty damn good too, but I’m not going to pretend like I’m oblivious to the fact that my disability and my prosthetics aren’t a contributing factor to the response that I’ve made in the community,” Garner said.

After getting attention on social media, he began to book more gigs, participate in rap battles, and through participating in Colorado Community Media’s housing series panel discussion, met the owner of Cactus Jack’s Saloon, where he is now host of the weekly open-mic night.

He said he can’t work a job “on paper,” and he still faces struggles with his health and well-being. Garner has a roof over his head and food to eat. He says that’s all he can ask for.

istically is important.

“Believe me — a lot of people don’t want to be depending on the government,” Hernandez said. “But at the same time, they need (vouchers) because it’s crazy out there.”

Although the housing choice voucher program is not perfect, LiFari said it still makes an impact.

“We have no other way that reaches the scale and has the complexity to be able to address individual housing markets, to drive housing stability and stave o extreme poverty and homelessness than this program,” he said.

And on top of that, Hernandez said it makes an important di erence in people’s spirits.

“It’s good for people to get (themselves) on the right track,” he said. “It’s a good thing to get your sense of, you know, you’re involved in society, you’re part of something.”

Jonathan Townshend Garner hosts an open mic night at Cactus Jack’s Saloon in Evergreen where he also performs.

PHOTO BY ANDREW FRAIELI

PRICES

Searching for a home

After leaving the house he owned near Houston, Texas, more than a decade ago, Laney knew buying a home in Denver would be a near-impossible feat.

He was making good money at a medical diagnostics company and had been able to purchase a brand-new home in a Houston suburb for less than $150,000. But his mental health was suffering and he knew he needed a change. With friends living in Colorado at the time, Laney decided to move more than 1,000 miles north to Denver.

With his fresh start came the opportunity to dive into a longtime passion: wine. He took classes to become a sommelier — a trained wine professional. He sold wine to businesses across the metro area, worked part-time at a cozy wine bar and restaurant in the heart of Littleton’s historic downtown, and eventually landed a full-time job at Jake’s.

Laney settled on wherever he could nd the most a ordable apartment — something hovering around $1,000 per month, in places around Denver. e ones he found in Littleton were too rundown. As rents around the region rose, Laney moved ve times in six years.

“During this whole process I knew I wanted a house,” Laney said. “I wanted something that was my own, and it’s hard to build a home in an apartment, especially when you keep moving.”

Laney’s experiences came as Littleton residents expressed less con dence that their city was a ordable. From 2012 to 2022, residents who cited a ordable cost of living as a reason for living in

Littleton declined from 30% to 14%, according to biennial city-issued surveys of hundreds of residents. Over those same years, residents who said a ordable housing and rental rates were a reason for living in the city went from 20% to 9%.

Laney said he worked, saved and kept his spending habits to a minimum during those years, staying laser-focused on his ultimate prize. Credit-card debt from college “really destroyed a lot of opportunities,” he said, but he kept “working, working, working.”

Even though Laney estimates he was making about $48,000 yearly, he says he was far short of what he needed for a down payment on even the least expensive of homes in Littleton.

He wasn’t alone. A 2020 analysis from Denver-based contractor Root Policy showed that individuals who earned $29,000 to $95,000 yearly in the metro area could not a ord the average price of a home, which was nearly $420,000 that year.

“It’s a pretty serious situation,” said Corey Reitz, executive director of Littleton’s housing authority, South Metro Housing Options. “ e list of folks who can’t continue to live here continues to grow.” at list, according to Root’s analysis, includes workers in health care, education, construction, food service and more.

Essential workers risk being priced out Sta ers at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood say the housing problem also a ects them. ey blame the shortage of essential hospital workers they’re contending with, in part, on the cost of housing.

“Absolutely the rising cost of housing here in Colorado is a topic,” said Dena

Schmaedecke, the hospital’s vice president of human resources. “Colleagues are often bringing up those stresses.”  at housing-cost factor has caused hospital leaders to o er a $10,000 housing stipend to incentivize new employees, Schmaedecke said.

In Brighton, northeast of Denver, Michael Clow, chief human resources o cer for 27J Schools, said the cost of housing has impacted the district’s ability to maintain and support sta .

“We hear from candidates and from our new hires that the cost of housing and their ability to nd housing is a real problem,” Clow said. “ We recently had two math teachers (husband and wife) join us. ey were excited to live their dream and move to Colorado. After just one year and realizing they could not a ord to raise a family here, they moved back to their home state.”

Clow said the crisis has restricted the district’s pool of applicants graduating with teaching degrees, creating intense competition for sta and teachers.

“ e cost of housing is becoming a serious obstacle for us to maintain service levels and serve our mission,” he said.

Farther north, in Fort Lupton, the Weld R-8 School District has faced similar pressures. Superintendent Alan Kaylor said the annual salary for a rst-year teacher in the district is about $41,000.

Kaylor bought his home in 1995 for $72,000. He said a home across the street from his was recently listed at $685,000. e price of that house across the street rose more than four times faster than the pace of in ation, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ in ation calculator.

“How can any family a ord that?” he asked. “Something has to give. After a while, you have to wonder how long

people will tolerate living on teachers’ wages.”

Even for some residents making a larger income, housing remains elusive. West of Denver, in Evergreen, husband and wife Bill and Charm Connelly bring in a combined six- gure salary.

Bill Connelly is an insurance agent and blackjack dealer for a Black Hawk casino. Charm is the front-house general manager for Cactus Jack’s, a bar and restaurant in Evergreen. e two rent a three-bedroom home and are struggling to save for a house. Even downsizing to something smaller, they said, would likely increase their spending by roughly $400 a month. e two currently pay $2,200 per month on rent.

“I feel like a failure. I nally get a good full-time job making great money, and eight years ago, 10 years ago, we could easily have gotten something,” Bill Connelly said.

“Between the two of us, I see what we make,” Charm said. “We are making decent money, but I want to be able to save money and not blow it all on rent.”

For Adam Galbraith, a Cactus Jack’s bartender, the only way to keep his rent a ordable is to live with others.

“ e only reason I’m able to save money is because it’s a 1,100-squarefoot place and we crammed four people in it,” Galbraith said, adding monthly rent is about $1,500. “If you’ve got roommates, that’s the only way you’re going to save money.”

A housing ‘limbo’

Near the end of 2019, Laney, the Littleton bartender, was beginning to feel more con dent about reaching his goal for a down payment. He’d paid o his car and credit-card debt and said he

SEE PRICES, P21

“worked hard to keep it that way.”

His savings account was beginning to bulk up. en came COVID-19.

Years of careful saving and unyielding restraint on spending evaporated in months. Laney was forced to drain his savings account during the beginning of the pandemic amid lockdowns. He received nothing from the federal government’s Paycheck Protection Program, though he would gain $3,200 from stimulus checks in the months to come. Still, he was hanging on.

It was “the community around Jake’s, our regulars, who kept us alive,” Laney said.

“I was there every single day, for damn near a year,” he said, with the bar able to do curbside orders even as its indoors remained shuttered.

Before the pandemic, Laney estimates he brought in about $4,000 each month before taxes. By the end of the month, after paying for rent, utilities, groceries and gas, he would be left with just $200 to $300, which usually went into his savings.

Living that way was “terrifying,” said Laney, who always felt he could be on the edge of losing his housing should he have a bad month. e pandemic only exacerbated the uncertainty.

As his savings depleted, Laney’s dream of owning a home never seemed further away.

But his resolve didn’t waver and he used what federal relief he had to rebuild his savings because, as he put it, “I had a goal: I wanted a house. When I came out of the tunnel I knew what I wanted.”

By 2021, he started looking again.

A townhome might come up on the market — far from perfect, but within Laney’s means — and he would ready himself to put down an o er. It never was enough.

“Someone comes in and puts 20k cash on the o er, or 30k or 40k,” Laney said. “I went through about a year and a half of that and I knew in my head I was not going to be able to get a house.”

A real-estate agent who came into his bar told Laney to apply for a $300,000 bank loan. He had good credit, the agent told him, and would be a shoo-in for the money.

“ ree hundred thousand dollars does not get you a townhome,” Laney thought to himself.

He was frustrated. More than frustrated. He felt depressed.

“I’d done everything right, everything I was supposed to do and it still didn’t matter,” he said. “I’m just stuck, like the hundreds of thousands of other people, in limbo.”

Laney’s luck began to turn near the end of 2021 when he heard there were about to be dozens of single-family homes for sale in Littleton for less than $300,000. He thought it was too good to be true.

‘We can’t all win the lottery’ at year, South Metro Housing Options, which manages a ordable properties throughout Littleton, sold 59 of its single-family homes to Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver, which pledged to renovate the units and sell them at a below-market price.

Laney’s hourly wage had slightly increased since the pandemic from $8 to $10, though 90% of his income still came from tips, he said. Still, Laney believed he met the nancial requirements for a Habitat home, which would only sell to

people who earn no more than 80% of the area’s median income.

But when Laney applied to be on a waitlist at the beginning of 2022, he was quickly denied. He was told his income, roughly $56,000 when he applied, exceeded the cap by less than $1,000.

Laney said he was actually making less than that, about $54,000, but because Habitat counted his “unrealized interest gains,” such as money held in stocks, Laney was over the threshold.

Habitat was also only looking at the income of recent months, Laney said, rather than his income over the past year. is made it look like he made more than he did because his month-tomonth income would uctuate dramatically based on tips.

He applied again and was denied again, this time for making just $300 more than the cut-o . But, a slow month at work turned out to be a good thing. His income dipped just enough that by the third time he applied he made it on the waitlist.

at did not come with the guarantee of a home. Laney was in a line of people just like him and demand far outweighed supply. Number 10 was his position. Who knew how many more were behind him, he thought.

en it happened. Laney was made an o er, a 1,275-square-foot detached home near Ketring Park in central Littleton valued at $285,000, roughly a third of what similar properties sold for.

“I can’t even express how happy I was,” Laney said. “I’ve been living and serving this community for 10 years and I want to live here.”

Still, the program has some drawbacks compared to traditional homeownership. Laney cannot build as much equity as many of his neighbors because he does not own the property the home sits on. Instead, it is owned by something called a land trust — a collection of entities.

“ e beauty of the land trust is it removes the cost of the land from the equation from the cost of the home,” said Kate Hilberg, director of real estate development for Habitat for Humanity. “It allows the homeowners to pay on that mortgage for that home and improvements to that home but not the land.”

Land trusts are crucial tools organizations like Habitat use to lock in the a ordability of homes even as property values rise elsewhere. e owners of these units will see some equity from their homes, Hilberg said, about 2% each year. But it won’t be enough to match the likes of homeowners who have used their growing property values to build decades of generational wealth.

“A lot of families use this as a starter home option and they do gain enough equity and stability to turn that into a down payment on a home in the open market,” Hilberg said of homes under land trusts.

But fathoming a concept like equity is a luxury for those who still can’t buy a house on the market, Laney said.

While he’s thankful for what Habitat did for him, he fears the few dozen homes it manages in Littleton can only go so far to meet the demand of hundreds, if not thousands, of residents who have struggled as he has.

“ ere isn’t enough income-based housing for people … the people who live and work in this community can’t a ord a house,” Laney said. “We can’t all win the lottery.”

Stories on Stage features Peter Heller

Stories on Stage will present an afternoon with Denver author Peter Heller at 2 p.m. on Feb. 19 at Su Teatro, 721 Santa Fe Drive, Denver. Allison Watrous and Tim McCracken will read stories from Heller’s books and the author will read from his novel “ e Dog Stars.” Tickets cost $24 at storiesonstage.org or at the door. A virtual performance will be streamed beginning Feb. 23 at 7 p.m.

Ticket holders for the virtual performance will receive a link and it can be watched at any time thereafter. Tickets cost $24 and are available at storiesonstage.org or by calling 303-494-0523.

Art at Town Hall

of the next Littleton Fine Arts Guild exhibit at the Stanton Gallery in

Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 W. Main St., Littleton. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and during performances. 303-794-2787.

United Auditions 2023 on April 23, noon to 8 p.m. and April 24, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Curious eatre Company (must be a eatre Guild member to attend). Producer requests to attend: open now until lled. Actor submissions: Open Jan. 9-March 10. uni eds.coloradotheatreguild.org.

Buntport Theater

Buntport eater’s newest original play, “Death of Napoleon,” plays through Feb. 18. Friday/Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Feb. 12 at 3 p.m. 717 Lipan St., Denver. Name your price for tickets, buntport.com.

Exhibit at church

“International Art Show” at St. Andrew UMC, 9203 S. University Blvd., Highlands Ranch. Starting on Feb. 11. Free. Reception on Feb. 12, 10 a.m. to noon.

History presentation

Highlands Ranch Historical Society meets from 7-8:30 p.m. on

tha Washington by Mary Sudman Donovan. Register: thehrhs.org/ WP/event/ rst-family-the-lifelongromance-of-martha-and-georgewashington.

Littleton Museum

Littleton Museum is showing “Nature’s Blueprints: Biomimicry in Art and Design” through March 15. Mingles art and design with environmental science using artifacts, artworks and photography, Interactive leaning stations. Free. 303-795-3950.

Englewood Arts

Englewood Arts Presents Colorado Symphony String Quartet performing quartets by Borodin and Dvorak at 2 p.m. on Feb. 25 at Hampden Hall, Englewood Civic Center, 1000 Englewood Parkway. Tickets: englewoodarts.org.

Town Hall Arts Center

“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” opens Feb. 17 at Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 W. Main St. in Littleton. 303-794-2787, ext. 5, townhallartscenter.org.

Momentous treaty coming to Denver

BY SONYA ELLINGBOE SELLINGBOE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo transformed what is now the western United States, and pages of that document will arrive at History Colorado Museum, 1200 N. Broadway, Denver to accompany the exhibit called “Borderlands.”

IF YOU GO

History Colorado is at 1200 N. Broadway in Denver. Parking is available across the street in the garage attached to the Denver Art Museum. Admission charges vary. 303-HISTORY, HistoryColorado.org.

Denver author Peter Heller’s stories will be center stage at a Stories on Stage event Feb. 19. COURTESY PHOTO

SONYA’S SAMPLER

These homes sat atop Pueblo’s Goat Hill, or Smelter Hill, an area of Colorado that was adjacent to Mexico until the border shifted after the Mexican-American War. This William Henry Jackson photo dates to 1900. COURTESY OF HISTORY COLORADO

Historic document ending war with Mexico created much of American West

Littleton girls outlast Dakota Ridge

BY JIM BENTON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Littleton’s Penny Urquhart played with her shoes tied and helped the Lions girls basketball team down Dakota Ridge 46-40 in a game played on Jan 25.

Urquhart scored all of Littleton’s 11 rst-quarter points and then hit a clutch 3-point basket in the nal minute of the game as the Lions stretched their winning streak to 10 games.

“At the beginning of the game and during warmups I wasn’t shooting well and retied my shoes,” Urquhart explained. “I started making shots. It was nice.”

e 5-foot-10 junior nished with a game-high 17 points and 14 came in the rst half.

“No, I didn’t tie my shoes at halftime,” Urquhart added. “After half they were taking away the shot so I just drove in and kept getting the ball to Dalana (Jakovljevic).”

Urquhart’s decisive closing basket with 51.5 seconds to play was her fth 3-pointer of the game and came with the Lions holding onto a 41-40 lead after the Eagles had rallied from a seven-point de cit late in the third period.

“Jacy (Chandler) got a rebound over three of the taller girls and it was really just a perfect pass,” she said. “I didn’t do much but put it up there and it went in.”

Urquhart’s basket gave Littleton a 44-40 lead and then Chandler, after a steal and rebound, swished two free throws with 19.3 seconds to play to account for the nal margin.

Jakovljevic, a 6-2 senior, had a double double against Dakota Ridge with

12 points and 11 rebounds. Chandler, a 5-10 junior, contributed 10 points.

Littleton, ranked 10th in the CHSAANow.com 5A state ratings, improved to 11-4 overall and 5-0 in the Je co 5A/4A league.

Coach Adam Williams’ Littleton team made six three-point baskets in the rst half but started getting more shots from inside the lane in the last two quarters.

“We talked a lot about working inside, outside at the beginning of the game,” said Williams. “We knew they play a two-three. ey have a ton of length. Our post players usually have an easier time than tonight. We were trying to kick in and out but we got a little impatient. We were a little hot at the beginning.”

Littleton saw its winning streak snapped when the team played unbeaten D’Evelyn in a rst-place road battle on Jan. 28. e Lions dropped a close 55-53 decision to the Jaguars, who were ranked second in the 4A poll.

“We just have to keep playing the way we’ve been playing,” said Urquhart. “Everyone on this team, when it’s their best night, we are one of the best teams in the state. We have a really tough schedule and a tough league and anybody can beat us. So we just have to keep playing hard.” Williams agrees.

“We have to obviously continue to get better every game,” he said. “ is group has done just an excellent job of just playing together. We have a lot of kids that can score and do things. ey’ve worked extremely hard. If we continue to do that I think we give ourselves a chance. It’s tough to scout us when we do that.”

Pondo wrestler hoping for big things

well so far this season and is the No. 1 190-pound wrestler in the OnTheMat rankings.

1 in Colorado by OnTheMat this season.

BY JIM BENTON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Westin Hoffschneider, a 190-pounder from Ponderosa, is a more confident wrestler this season.

Hoffschneider lost last season in the 182-pound state championship match as a sophomore and is looking forward to post-season matches in February.

“I definitely have more confidence because last year was my first year going to state so I didn’t know what to expect,” said Hoffschneider after a Jan. 26 dual meet against Legend. “Now I know what it is going to be like.

“My hope this year is just getting to the finals match at state and winning it instead of losing like I did last year. That was a tough pill to swallow. It has definitely helped me this year because I don’t want to feel like that ever again.”

Hoffschneider has been doing

“I lost a couple matches early on in the season at the national tournaments,” he said. “Other than that things are going good. Over the summer I wrestled freestyle and Greco in Fargo. It definitely made me a lot tougher because I wrestled 60 matches in four days.

“It was a close match,” Hoffschneider added referring to a 4-1 loss to Monarch’s Cole Carlucci last season in the state finals. “I was hurt most of the year too so I was just getting my gas tank back. I feel my technique was a little off but it is now a lot better.”

Hoffschneider and the Mustangs are seeking to improve at the state tournament after finishing second to Pomona three of the past four seasons.

Last season Ponderosa led by 37.5 points heading into the final day of the tournament but Pomona racked up 63 points in the consolation matches and the Mustangs had to settle for the runner-up trophy again.

Hoffschneider is one of five Ponderosa wrestlers ranked No.

Tommy Verrette is No. 1 at 126 pounds, Jacob Myers at 132 pounds, Brandon Cannon at 138 pounds and Ty Eise, a state runner up last season, at 175 pounds.

“We’re hoping we can beat Pomona and take them down, finally,” said Hoffschneider. “It will be pretty tough because we are missing some weighs because kids are getting injured.

“It’s going to take some kids to step up at every weight. We put seven in the finals last year. We need to put eight or nine or seven again. We have to work hard in practice, try to get better and never expect to go out there and lose.”

Hoffschneider said he has been wrestling for 11 years and still loves the sport.

“It is fun especially when you win a lot,” he concluded. “You lose, you kind of get down on yourself and you don’t like it as much. When you get to those great matches and win those close matches against a kid you’re not suppose to beat, it’s the best in the world.”

Ponderosa junior Westin Ho schneider is the top-rated 190-pound wrestler in the state, according to the OnTheMat rankings.

PHOTO BY JIM BENTON

Post-season matches are set for this month

Littleton’s Penny Urquhart (21) scored 17 points and hit a clutch 3-point basket in the final minute of the game to help the Lions defeat Dakota Ridge 46-40 in a game played Jan. 25.

PHOTO BY JIM BENTON

Small goalie makes big impact on ice

Emma gains support of teammates, fans

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

As the opposing team grabs the puck and skates down the ice in a breakaway, parents and fans of the Arapahoe Warriors 10U Yellow team, or Golden Eagles, take a collective breath. As the goalie falls on the puck to secure the save, parents scream, “Good job, Emma.”

While those same parents are there to cheer on their own children, Emma Preston has quickly become a crowd favorite in the 2022-23 season.

While one could argue Emma may be one of the smallest members of the team, no one doubts she stands up to the pressure of having the biggest job on the ice as the lone goalie.

Emma is the lone girl on the 10-and-under team that is part of the Arapahoe Warriors recreational hockey program, which plays teams all over the Front Range.

“As a coaching sta , I’m not sure we’ve seen a goalie at this age level that has quicker lateral movement across the goalie crease,” said Head Coach Christopher Castelli. “Her ability to shu e from one side of the net to the other in the butter y position is second to none.”

For the Eagles, many of the players are in their rst year of competitive play, including Emma.

Emma said she got into hockey by watching the sport with her dad, noting that her favorite player is

Marc-André Fleury, the goalie for the Minnesota Wild in the NHL.

Emma said watching Fleury made her want to try her hand at being goalie. She started training and joined the Eagles for a season that hasn’t always been easy.

“I really like getting out there and stopping the shots,” Emma said. “It’s hard but I want to keep working.”

At the start of the season as the new young team was coming together, many games fell on Emma’s shoulders. e Eagles faced some tough, lopsided losses in the early going.

“It can be hard, especially when the other team gets on a breakaway,” Emma said. “As the team has gotten better it feels good because there is less pressure on me.”

Castelli said Emma’s positivity is infectious.

“During game intermissions, we have one-on-one chats about clearing the mind and having a positive thought process when she’s in the net,” he said.” In fact, she writes motivational quotes on her goalie pads to remind herself that we as a team believe in her and that she believes in herself.”

As the Eagles have improved on defense and as shooters Dennis Lisunov, who leads the team with 43 goals, and Lewis Chan started getting in a rhythm on their respective lines, the team is starting to win more games, even the close ones that would slip away in the nal seconds early in the season.

A season momentum builder came during the Arvada tournament in December. In a tough game, the Eagles pushed the score to a 3-3 tie at the

end of regulation. For tournament placement, the game cannot end in a tie, requiring a shootout.

Emma said she got a little stressed before the shootout. e Eagles started with three shots, with two of the players hitting it in to relieve some of Emma’s pressure. However, after blocking one shot, Emma missed two to keep the game tied.

In the second shootout, each team got one shot. Chan, who scored in the rst shootout, snuck it in to put the Eagles ahead again.

Emma said as an opposing player pushed the puck toward her, she just took position and watched the puck push to her glove, saving the goal and winning the game.

As she made the save and the crowd cheered, as is customary after each game, all of the Eagles players ran to hit Emma on her helmet in a big mob.

“As a team, we have preached about being one big hockey family, Castelli said. “Emma has the ongoing support of our players as well as the parents in the stands. I’ve had parents and opposing coaches come up to me after the game lauding her performance in the net. Her fandom among the team parents has become pretty special.

e Emma chants with the blue and yellow pom-poms waving in the air after every save is an amazing site to see.”

is December victory was not only big for Emma, but she said it was also big for her team as she’s had a great view from the goalie box in watching the Eagles grow and improve.

In Fort Collins in early January, Emma and the Eagles again shined.

After a rough rst round where they lost a game they were expected to win, the team bounced back for two strong victories.

In the second round, Emma was on her game, allowing two goals on 26 shots, giving the Eagles a 3-2 victory. e Eagles made it to the championship round where they lost a tight game 4-3.

In a game where the Eagles led 3-0, a tough second period changed momentum, starting with a controversial call where referees ruled a tripping incident was agrant. Instead of a penalty box punishment, the referee allowed the other team to take a free penalty shot. Emma came up short, as the goal slid past her leg.

Besides her strong play and the support earned from both her teammates and fans, Emma is also one of the most respectful players on the ice, even in a game where a referee call changed the course of play.

After each game, win or lose, Emma can be seen shaking the referees’ hands.

“]Ultimately, as Emma continues playing and learning, the young player said she wants to eventually be a part of a championship team. “I just want to keep doing this and be the best I can be for my team,” she said.

e Eagles will continue their season through February.

“ As the season progresses, (Emma) continues to close-out games for us,” Castelli said. “Another thing that has led to her growing con dence is the hard work the team puts into our practices. at team bond and unity has transferred to the ice.”

Emma Preston gets prepared as the opposing team heads her way in a game during the 20222023 season. PHOTO BY THELMA GRIMES

Emma Preston proudly holds the player of the game puck, which she has earned several times this season. COURTESY PHOTO

Emma Preston is swarmed by teammates after a tournament victory.

PHOTO BY THELMA GRIMES

Peak winter brings top entertainment

Once every couple months, I get completely bowled over by how much there is to do in the metro area and have to dedicate a column to celebrating the wonderful variety we all have in our backyards. Don’t let the snow and cold weather fool you — there’s all kinds of options at this time of year. I rounded up ve great ways to spend this cold winter as we inch closer to spring - these options will all help get you there:

COMING ATTRACTIONS

have a fun time and learn something at the same time. That’s always been the case with The Nathan Yip Foundation’s lunar New Year Party , which will be hosted at the Grand Hyatt in Denver , 1750 Welton St., from 5 to 10:30 p.m. on Feb. 4.

The celebration of the Year of the Rabbit will include a ChinoLatino theme. According to provided information, “the evening will feature world-class performers including lion dancers, a palm reader, a Chinese calligrapher, the Colorado Mambo Orchestra and an authentic and interactive Chinese Night Market.”

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — The Lone Bellow at the Ogden Theatre

Brooklyn’s e Lone Bellow make the kind of folk rock you can really wrap yourself up in and use to get lost. Over the course of their ve albums, they’ve explored a sonic and lyrical landscape that is at times wry, but always deeply thought out and felt. e hilariously titled “Love Songs for Losers,” was released toward the end of 2022 and continued this trend, with songs like “Cost of Living” are among their strongest songs yet.

In support of their album, e Lone Bellow are playing the Ogden eatre, 935 E. Colfax Ave. in Denver, at 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 3. is will be a great pre-Valentine’s Day show, so get tickets at www.axs. com.

Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit with The Nathan Yip Foundation

It’s always great when you can

Money raised at the party supports the foundation’s work supporting K-12 educational projects in rural Colorado communities. Tickets are available at https:// nathanyipfoundation.org/event/ chinese-new-year-party.

The Music of Nat King Cole comes to Northglenn

Nat King Cole has one of the best and most unmistakable voices in pop music history. And there’s a reason you always seem to hear a bit more from him right around Valentine’s Day - he’s one of the best purveyors of audio romance. So, it’s perfectly fitting that the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra (CJRO) is bringing The Music of Nat King Cole to the Parsons Theatre , 1 E. Memorial Parkway in Northglenn, at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10.

Find all the details and tickets at www.coloradojazz.org.

Clarke Reader

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Help Wanted

SUPPLEMENT YOUR INCOME

Are you a CARING, COMPASSIONATE, NURTURING person who enjoys helping others and making a difference in people’s lives?

If so, we are NOW contracting with Host Home Providers.

Host home’s make a lifestyle commitment to an individual with developmental or intellectual disabilities by giving the option of choosing to live in a family home and make it theirs as well.

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If you are interested in more information about becoming a Host Home Provider, please e-mail your resume to srockman@integratingsuppports.com or call 719-313-0626.

Senior Software Engineer (FT; Multiple Openings)

Job Location: Centennial, CO

Requirements: MS or equiv. in CS, CE, etc. + 2 yrs. exp. or BS + 5 yrs. exp. req’d. Exp. w/AWS, Hibernate, Java-Based Automation, Java, Spring, cloud dev., app server deployment, web design, REST & SOAP req’d.

Salary: $151,500

Mail Resume: RingCentral, Inc.

Attn: HR Dept. 20 Davis Drive Belmont, CA 94002

Help Wanted

Visa Technology & Operations LLC, a Visa Inc. company, currently has an opening for Sr. SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF56423Y) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Architect, design, build, develop, test, and/or implement software applications. Conduct business and technical analysis, code reviews, and unit testing. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $94,700 USD to $146,700 USD.; Sr. SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF56424L) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Architect, design, build, develop, test, and/or implement software applications. Conduct business and technical analysis, code reviews, and unit testing. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $102,482 USD to $146,700 USD.; Staff SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF56426L) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Responsible for the architecture, design, development, and implementation of software applications. Evaluate and introduce technology tools and processes that enable Visa to develop products and solutions, to embrace business opportunities and/or improve operational efficiency. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $139,984 USD to $177,800 USD.; Staff SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF56427C) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Responsible for the architecture, design, development, and implementation of software applications. Evaluate and introduce technology tools and processes that enable Visa to develop products and solutions, to embrace business opportunities and/or improve operational efficiency. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $121,222 USD to $177,800 USD. All positions report to the Employer’s Highlands Ranch, CO office and may allow for partial telecommuting. Salary may vary depending on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location. In addition, this position may be eligible for an annual bonus and equity.

Accountant/Bookkeeper

Looking for Accountant/Bookkeeper to work in Castle Rock office approximately 2 days a week. Flexible schedule including some remote work. Must work in office at least one day per week and have QuickBooks accounting software experience. Very generous hourly rate and flexibility. Please call Kim Harrison at 303-941-9446 or email Kim@osbornecos.com

Enterprise Architect

Positions offered by Arrow Electronics Inc. (Centennial, CO). Responsible for enterprise architecture by ensur’g that common architecture decisions are implemented consistently across business & IT to support the business & IT strategy. Research, analyze, design, propose, & deliver IT architecture solutions that are optimal for the business & IT strategies in one or more domains. Employee reports to office in Centennial, CO. Position may work from home, but must live within commuting distance of stated office. We are offering a salary of $139,984 to $153,000 per year. Arrow Electronics, Inc. has a COVID-19 vaccination policy. For more information & to apply online, please visit: http://bitly.ws/xRvo.

Visa has a comprehensive benefits package for which this position is eligible that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Program, FSH/ HSA, Life Insurance, Paid Time off and Wellness Programs. Qualified applicants should apply by emailing resume to careersus@visa.com. Must reference job code.

DRIVER Class B CDL propane delivery truck driver for Spring Valley Gas, Elizabeth.

P/T & F/T positions; responsible for propane delivery and customer service.

HazMat/Tanker endorsement.

Propane certification a plus. Insurance age requirement 26 with clean MVR. SVG is building a team, not just a job!

Starting salary based on experience & qualifications. Call 303-660-8810.

Help Wanted

Visa USA Inc., a Visa Inc. company, currently has an opening for Sr. SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF55102F) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Architect, design, build, develop, test, and/ or implement software applications. Conduct business and technical analysis, code reviews, and unit testing. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $94,700 USD to $146,700 USD.; Sr. SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF55103L) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Architect, design, build, develop, test, and/or implement software applications. Conduct business and technical analysis, code reviews, and unit testing. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $102,482 USD to $146,700 USD.; Staff SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF55104Q) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Responsible for the architecture, design, development, and implementation of software applications. Evaluate and introduce technology tools and processes that enable Visa to develop products and solutions, to embrace business opportunities and/or improve operational efficiency. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $139,984 USD to $177,800 USD.; Staff SW Engineer (multiple openings) (REF55105C) in Highlands Ranch, CO. Job duties include: Responsible for the architecture, design, development, and implementation of software applications. Evaluate and introduce technology tools and processes that enable Visa to develop products and solutions, to embrace business opportunities and/or improve operational efficiency. The estimated salary range for a new hire into this position is $121,222 USD to $177,800 USD. All positions report to the Employer’s Highlands Ranch, CO office and may allow for partial telecommuting. Salary may vary depending on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location. In addition, this position may be eligible for an annual bonus and equity. Visa has a comprehensive benefits package for which this position is eligible that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Employee Stock Purchase Program, FSH/ HSA, Life Insurance, Paid Time off and Wellness Programs. Qualified applicants should apply by emailing resume to careersus@visa.com. Must reference job code.

BOOKKEEPER

Titan Concrete, Inc. nA flatwork construction company in Sedalia, Co has an opening in Bookkeeping - Quickbooks - Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable.

Weekly Payroll - 25 employees. Handle day to day office business. $25.00 per hour.

Part time - 20-30 hours a week - Flexible Not Remote.

Email resume to: Augie@titanconcreteinc.com

BVSD is committed to hiring diverse candidates who bring unique perspectives, backgrounds and skill sets that will strengthen our mission of delivering high-quality education to all students. We are committed to culturally responsive practices that challenge inequity and bias. School leadership and sta will be on hand to interview candidates in person at the event and virtually, and we will be making tentative employment o ers for the Fall 2023 school year. #WeAreBVSD

Help Wanted

LEGITIMATE WORK AT HOME

No Sales, no Investment, No Risk, Free training, Free website. Contact Susan at 303-646-4171 or fill out form at www.wisechoice4u.com

Software Development Engineer II Travelport LP seeks Software Development Engineer II positions in Centennial, CO. Provide crucial technical expertise at a high level and collaboration with teammates, Product Owners, and Scrum Masters. Design, development and maintenance work on an agile scrum team focused on delivering non-traditional air content to agency applications. Salary range will be $83,720 - $122,000. May telecommute.

Email resume: americasbusinesspartners@ travelport.com Ref. 6464238.

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WIDOWED MEN AND WOMEN OF AMERICA.

A social club offering many exciting activities and life long friendships. Social hours for all areas of Metro Denver. Visit Widowedamerica.org for details In your area!

2 bicycles, single bed complete never used, wheelchair, new poker table and shop vacuum. All for $500 or best offer. Will sell single items as well. Call 720-465-9022

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Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

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THURSDAY, 5 P.M.

LEGALS: THURSDAY, 3 P.M.

Gross Wages paid to Arapahoe County employees and officials for Calendar Year 2022. Benefits average approximately 27% of wages.

Arapahoe County Salaries

Arapahoe County Salaries

Public Notices

Legals

Public Trustees

COMBINED NOTICE - PUBLICATION

CRS §38-38-103

FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 0561-2022

To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

On November 4, 2022, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Arapahoe records.

Original Grantor(s)

Gregory J Hoffman, a married person and Louise

B Hoffman, a married person

Original Beneficiary(ies)

Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS") as nominee for Coldwell Banker Mortgage, Its Successors and Assigns

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt

NewRez LLC, F/K/A New Penn Financial, LLC,

D/B/A Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing

Date of Deed of Trust

January 22, 2010

County of Recording

Arapahoe

Recording Date of Deed of Trust

January 25, 2010

Recording Information

(Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.)

D0007694

Original Principal Amount $417,000.00

Outstanding Principal Balance

$320,976.95

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the Deed of Trust and other violations thereof

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

LOT 5, GREENWOOD HIGHLANDS FILING

NO. 2, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO

Also known by street and number as: 4 Windover Road, Greenwood Village, CO 80121.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

If applicable, a description of any changes to the deed of trust described in the notice of election and demand pursuant to affidavit as allowed by statutes: C.R.S.§ 38-35-109(5)

LEGAL DESCRIPTION HAS BEEN CORRECTED BY SCRIVENER'S AFFIDAVIT RECORDED 09/28/2022 AT RECEPTION NO. E2098930 IN THE RECORDS OF ARAPAHOE COUNTY.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 03/08/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 1/12/2023

Last Publication: 2/9/2023 Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 11/04/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Erin Croke #46557

Steven Bellanti #48306

Holly Shilliday #24423

Ilene Dell'Acqua #31755 McCarthy & Holthus LLP 7700 E Arapahoe Road, Suite 230, Centennial, CO 80112 (877) 369-6122

Attorney File # CO-22-926956-LL

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Revised 1/2015

To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

On November 22, 2022, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Arapahoe records.

Original Grantor(s)

Randall M. Johnson

Original Beneficiary(ies)

Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ("MERS") as nominee for Loan Simple, Inc., Its Successors and Assigns

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt NewRez LLC, F/K/A New Penn Financial, LLC,

D/B/A Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing

Date of Deed of Trust

March 25, 2015 County of Recording Arapahoe Recording Date of Deed of Trust April 02, 2015

Outstanding Principal Balance $134,581.56

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the Deed of Trust and other violations thereof THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

LOT 1, BLOCK 8, SOUTHCREEK SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 1, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO

Also known by street and number as: 15902 E Nichols Ave, Englewood, CO 80112. THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 03/22/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 1/26/2023

Last Publication: 2/23/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A

LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A

NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE

PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 11/22/2022

Arapahoe County Salaries

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Erin Croke #46557

Steven Bellanti #48306

Holly Shilliday #24423

Ilene Dell'Acqua #31755 McCarthy & Holthus LLP 7700 E Arapahoe Road, Suite 230, Centennial, CO 80112 (877) 369-6122 Attorney

SocialCaseworkerB $65338.61 CAPSSupervisor $86668.11

SocialCaseworkerB $15489.38

SocialCaseworkerB $52556.80

SocialCaseworkerB $41558.40

SocialCaseworkerA $7560.00

SocialCaseworkerB $72915.95

SocialCaseworkerA $14040.00

SocialCaseworkerB $59907.51

Public Notices

Original Principal Amount

$55,000.00

Outstanding Principal Balance

$55,436.44

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

THE SOUTH 73.5 FEET OF THE NORTH 148.5

FEET OF THE EAST 125 FEET OF THE WEST

155 FEET OF THE EAST 300 FEET OF BLOCK 31, WINDERMERE - GALLUP'S SUBURBAN HOME SUBDIVISION , COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO

Also known by street and number as:

5978 S. Louthan St, LITTLETON, CO 80120.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 03/08/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 1/12/2023

Last Publication: 2/9/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE

EXTENDED;

DATE: 11/08/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Peter M. Susemihl #494

Susemihl, Mcdermott & Downie, PC

660 Southpointe Ct. Suite 210, Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (719) 579-6500

Attorney File # 5978 S LOUTHAN ST

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Revised 1/2015

Legal Notice No. 0577-2022

First Publication: 1/12/2023

Last Publication: 2/9/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED OVERBID FUNDS CRS 38-38-111(2.5b)(3a,b,d)(5)

PUBLIC TRUSTEE SALE NO. 0320-2022

To: Obligor/Grantor(s) on the evidence of debt and/or Deed of Trust or other person entitled.

You are advised that there are overbid funds due you. This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

Name of Obligor/Grantor(s) on the evidence of debt and/or Deed of Trust

Dylan Dick Address of Obligor/Grantor(s) on the evidence of debt and/or Deed of Trust 15700 E Jamison Dr Unit 1-305, Centennial, CO 80112

Recording Date of Deed of Trust October 22, 2020

Recording Information E0144226 Book: N/A Page:

Legal Description of Property

See Attached Legal Description

Street Address of Property 15700 E Jamison Dr Unit 1-305, Centennial, CO 80112

NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED OVERBID FUNDS

I sold at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on 10/26/22, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, to the highest and best bidder for cash, the real property described above. An overbid was realized from the sale and the funds must be claimed by the Obligor/Grantor(s) on the evidence of debt and/or Deed of Trust or other persons entitled thereto within six months from the date of sale.

THE STATE OF COLORADO REQUIRES US TO NOTIFY YOU THAT YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE TRANSFERRED TO THE CUSTODY OF THE STATE TREASURER IF YOU DO NOT CONTACT US BEFORE 4/26/2023 as part of the "Revised Uniform Unclaimed Property Act", pursuant to Colorado law.

This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

8, 2022, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Arapahoe records.

(Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.)

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

Outstanding Principal Balance $896,000.00

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

SEE EXHIBIT A ATTACHED HERETO

Also known by street and number as: 3190 WEST BOWLES AVENUE, LITTLETON, CO 80123.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 03/08/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 1/12/2023

Last Publication: 2/9/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 11/08/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Robert T. Cosgrove #12217 Burns, Wall and Mueller, P.C. 303 East 17th Avenue, #920, Denver, CO 80203-1299 (303) 830-7000

Attorney File # 3190 WEST BOWLES AVENUE

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Revised 1/2015

EXHIBIT “A” 0573-2022

Attached to and forming part of the Deed of Trust to Public Trustee, Security Agreement, Assignment of Leases and Rents and Financing Statement, dated March 8, 2022, from Cross Creek 3, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company as Grantor, to the Public Trustee of the County of Arapahoe, Colorado, for the use and benefit of Indicate Capital Fund 1 LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, as

Building, located at 5334 S Prince Street, Littleton, CO 80120. Interested parties can view and access the public meeting through our website: https://www.arapahoegov.com/1617/PublicMeetings-Live-Streaming or https://arapahoe.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.

To comment virtually during the public comment period, interested parties may call 855-436-3656 and, when prompted to, press *3 to be entered into the speaking queue.

If you need special accommodations or translation services to attend a public meeting or submit comments, or if you would like to request related documents in a language other than English, please contact Jeremy Fink (jfink@arapahoegov. com or 303 738-8062) at least 48 hours prior to the start of the meeting to ensure we can accommodate your request.

Legal Notice No. Arap 1147

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the Sheridan Sanitation District No. 2 District of Arapahoe and Denver County(ies), Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 2nd day of May, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, 2 directors will be elected to serve 3-year terms.

Eligible electors of the Sheridan Sanitation District No. 2 District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District Designated Election Official (DEO):

Dallas Hall, Designated Election Official c/o Jim Swanson, Manager 6013 E. Briarwood Dr. Centennial CO 80112 303-726-5577

The Office of the DEO is open on the following days: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business on February 24, 2023 (not less than 67 days before the election).

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the designated election official by the close of business on Monday, February 27, 2023(the sixty-fourth day before the election).

LOTS 13 AND 14, BLOCK 21, SHERIDAN SUBDIVISION, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO.

Also known by street and number as: 1810 W Girard Ave, Englewood, CO 80110.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 03/01/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 1/5/2023

Last Publication: 2/2/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 11/01/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Alison L Berry #34531

N. April Winecki #34861

David R. Doughty #40042

Nicholas H. Santarelli #46592

Lynn M. Janeway #15592

Janeway Law Firm, P.C. 9800 S. Meridian Blvd., Suite 400, Englewood, CO 80112 (303) 706-9990 Attorney File # 22-028628

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Revised 1/2015

Legal Notice NO. 0554-2022

First Publication: 1/5/2023

Last Publication: 2/2/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent City and County

Public Notice

ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO

PUBLIC NOTICE & OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the general public and any interested parties are invited to provide comment and input regarding the County’s plan to utilize HOME Investment Partnerships Program-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds to address community needs and provide housing solutions for people experiencing homelessness. The County’s HOME-ARP plan, which establishes funding priorities and allocations, will be completed as part of a substantial amendment to the 2021 Annual Action Plan.

Arapahoe County, Community Development Housing and Homeless Services staff will complete a business meeting with the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to review the HOME-ARP funding opportunity and provide an opportunity for public comment, which will help guide HOME-ARP funding decisions for Arapahoe County.

The BOCC business meeting, which is open to the public, will be held in person on Tuesday February 7, 2023 at 9:30 a.m. or shortly thereafter in the East Hearing Room of the County Administration

PROPOSAL: South Metro Fire Rescue Fire Protection District has prepared an amended and restated service plan for the fire protection district to address changes that have occurred since the initial adoption of the service plan in 1967. These changes have been primarily geographic in nature and since 1967 the fire protection district boundaries have shifted and grown through consolidation and expansion with other fire protection districts. This amended and restated fire protection district service plan reflects the historical changes in geographic boundaries, population and demographics, finances and services since the original district plan in 1967, and establishes the boundaries for the District as its existing service area. Persons owning property within the boundaries of the District may petition the Board of County Commissioners for exclusion from the District only as set for in CRS 32-1-203(3.5).

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on February 28, 2023 at 9:30 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the calendar of the Arapahoe County Board of County Commission permits, a public hearing will be held; at which, all interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard concerning the abovedescribed Case No. SD22-002, South Metro Fire Rescue District Fire Protection District / Amended and Restated Service Plan. The public hearing will be held at 5334 S Prince St., East Hearing Room, Littleton CO 80120, with the option to participate remotely. The agenda will typically be posted by the Friday afternoon preceding the hearing and can be viewed on our website at https://arapahoe.legistar.com/Calendar. You can also listen to, or speak at, the meeting by calling 1-855-436-3656. To join the speaking queue, press *3 on the telephone keypad.

More information about this proposal is available at the offices of the Arapahoe County Public Works and Development Department, Planning Division, 6924 S Lima St., Centennial CO 80112 (please call ahead to schedule an appointment if you plan to walk-in), by calling 720-874-6650, or by emailing planning@arapahoegov.com during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday).

Joan Lopez, Clerk to the Board

Legal Notice No. Arap 1141

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors of the Foxridge General Improvement District, City of Centennial, Colorado (the “District”) will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the City of Centennial Civic Center located at 13133 East Arapahoe Road, Centennial Colorado 80112 (“Civic Center”) regarding amendment of the previously adopted Foxridge General Improvement District 2023 Budget (“2023 Budget”) and a corresponding supplemental appropriation. Copies of the current and proposed amended 2023 Budget are available for inspection on the city’s website: https://www.centennialco.gov/Government/ Departments/Finance/City-Budget or at the Civic Center. Any interested elector of the District may file any objections on the proposed amended 2023 Budget with the City Clerk, in writing at cityclerksoffice@centennialco.gov any time prior to final adoption on February 14, 2023.

/s/Barbara Setterlind, MMC, City Clerk

Legal Notice No. 530999-60999

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the designated election official no later than the close of business on Tuesday preceding the election, April 25, 2023.

Dallas Hall Designated Election Official Signature

Legal Notice No. 301743

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald

Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR PLATTE CANYON WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Platte Canyon Water and Sanitation District of Jefferson and Arapahoe Counties, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a regular election will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, two (2) directors will be elected to serve a four-year term.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms are available from Bridget Butterfield, the Designated Election Official for the District, at 8739 W. Coal Mine Avenue, Littleton, Colorado 80123 or email: bdbutterfield@plattecanyon.org.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms must be filed with the Designated Election Official for the District at the above email address not less than 67 days prior to the election (Friday, February 24, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots may be filed with the Designated Election Official of the District at the above address during normal business hours (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 25, 2023). All absentee ballots must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 7:00 p.m. on election day.

PLATTE CANYON WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

By: /s/ Bridget Butterfield Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530984

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR VALLEY SANITATION DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Valley Sanitation District of Arapahoe and Denver Counties, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a regular election will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, three (3) directors will be elected to serve a four-year term.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms are available from Bridget Butterfield, the Designated Election Official for the District, at 8739 W. Coal Mine Avenue, Littleton, Colorado, 80123, or email: bdbutterfield@plattecanyon.org.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms must be filed with the Designated Election Official for the District at the above email address not less than 67 days prior to the election (Friday, February 24, 2023).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots may be filed with the Designated Election Official of the District at the above address during normal business hours (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 25, 2023). All absentee ballots must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 7:00 p.m. on election day.

VALLEY SANITATION DISTRICT

By: /s/ Bridget Butterfield Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530986

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

BOWLES METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the BOWLES METROPOLITAN DISTRICT ("District") of Jefferson and Denver County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 2nd day of May, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (3) three directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2027.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO):

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com

Community Resource Services of Colorado

7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Phone: 303-381-4960

Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com.

A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023.

Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, February 27, 2023.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

BOWLES METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

Sue Blair, Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530980

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

§§ 1-13.5-303; 1-13.5-305; 1-13.5-501; 1-13.5-1002; 32-1-905(2), C.R.S.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the electors of Columbine Water and Sanitation District, of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 2nd day of May 2023, between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. At that time three (3) directors will be elected to serve a 4-year term and zero (0) directors will be elected to serve a 2-year term.

Eligible electors of the Columbine Water and Sanitation District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form from Alexandra L. Moore, the Designated Election Official of the Columbine Water and Sanitation District, c/o Icenogle Seaver Pogue, P.C., 4725 S. Monaco Street, Suite 360, Denver, CO 80237, (303) 292-9100. The office of the Designated Election Official is open Monday through Friday (with the exception of holidays) from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

The deadline to submit Self-Nomination and Acceptance Forms to the Designated Election Official is not later than the normal close of business on the 67th day prior to the election, which date is Friday, February 24, 2023. If the Designated Election Official determines that a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may submit an amended Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form to the Designated Election Official before the normal close of business on the 67th day prior to the election, which date is Friday, February 24, 2023. Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-InCandidate Forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on the 64th day before the election, which date is Monday, February 27, 2023.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee voters’ ballots are available in the office of the Designated Election Official, Icenogle Seaver Pogue, P.C., 4725 S. Monaco Street, Suite 360, Denver, CO 80237, (303) 292-9100.

An application for an absentee voter’s ballot shall be filed with the Designated Election Official no later than the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election, which date is Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

COLUMBINE WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

By: /s/ Alexandra L. Moore,

Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530989

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS §§ 1-13.5-303; 1-13.5-305; 1-13.5-501; 1-13.5-1002; 32-1-905(2), C.R.S.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the electors of Orchard Valley Metropolitan District, of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will

be held on the 2nd day of May 2023, between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. At that time two (2) directors will be elected to serve a 4-year term and zero (0) directors will be elected to serve a 2-year term.

Eligible electors of the Orchard Valley Metropolitan District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form from Kayla M. Enriquez, the Designated Election Official of the Orchard Valley Metropolitan District, c/o Icenogle Seaver Pogue, P.C., 4725 S. Monaco Street, Suite 360, Denver, CO 80237, (303) 292-9100. The office of the Designated Election Official is open Monday through Friday (with the exception of holidays) from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

The deadline to submit Self-Nomination and Acceptance Forms to the Designated Election Official is not later than the normal close of business on the 67th day prior to the election, which date is Friday, February 24, 2023. If the Designated Election Official determines that a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may submit an amended Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form to the Designated Election Official before the normal close of business on the 67th day prior to the election, which date is Friday, February 24, 2023. Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-InCandidate Forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on the 64th day before the election, which date is Monday, February 27, 2023.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee voters’ ballots are available in the office of the Designated Election Official, Icenogle Seaver Pogue, P.C., 4725 S. Monaco Street, Suite 360, Denver, CO 80237, (303) 292-9100.

An application for an absentee voter’s ballot shall be filed with the Designated Election Official no later than the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election, which date is Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

ORCHARD VALLEY METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

By: /s/ Kayla M. Enriquez, Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530998

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT ("District") of Jefferson County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 2nd day of May, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (2) two directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2027, and (1) director will be elected for a 2-year term expiring in May 2025.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO):

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com

Community Resource Services of Colorado

7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960

Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com.

A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, February 27, 2023.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

Sue Blair, Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530992

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR SOUTHWEST METROPOLITAN WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Southwest Metropolitan Water and Sanitation District of Jefferson, Douglas and Arapahoe Counties, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a regular election will be held on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, two (2) directors will be elected to serve a four-year term.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms are available from Bridget Butterfield, the Designated Election Official for the District, at 8739 W. Coal

Avenue, Littleton, Colorado 80123 or email: bdbutterfield@plattecanyon.org.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms must be filed with the Designated Election Official for the District at the above email address not less than 67 days prior to the election (Friday, February 24, 2023 at 4:00 pm).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots may be filed with the Designated Election Official of the District at the above address during normal business hours (7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 25, 2023). All absentee ballots must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 7:00 p.m. on election day.

SOUTHWEST METROPOLITAN WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

By: /s/ Bridget Butterfield

Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. 530985

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

CONVOCATORIA DE CANDIDATURAS PARA

VALLEY SANITATION DISTRICT

A QUIEN PUEDA INTERESAR y particularmente a los electores de Valley Sanitation District del condado de Arapahoe and Denver, Colorado.

POR LA PRESENTE SE INFORMA de que se hará una elección regular el martes 2 de mayo de 2023, entre las 7:00 a. m. y las 7:00 p. m. En ese momento, se elegirán tres (3) directores para servir un término de cuatro años.

Los formularios de autocandidatura y aceptación están disponibles en Bridget Butterfield, el funcionario electoral designado para el distrito, en 8739 W. Coal Mine Avenue, Littleton, Colorado, 80123 o por correo electrónico: bdbutterfield@ plattecanyon.org. Los formularios de autocandidatura y aceptación deben presentarse ante el Funcionario electoral designado para el Distrito en la dirección de correo electrónico mencionada arriba no menos de 67 días antes de la elección (viernes 24 de febrero de 2023 a las 4:00 p. m.).

SE INFORMA ADEMÁS de que las solicitudes de votos ausentes pueden presentarse ante el Funcionario electoral designado del Distrito en la dirección indicada arriba durante el horario de atención habitual (7:30 a. m. y 4:00 p. m.), hasta el cierre de la jornada laboral del martes inmediatamente anterior a la elección (martes, 25 de abril de 2023). Todos los votos ausentes deben devolverse al Funcionario electoral designado antes de las 7:00 p. m. del día de la elección.

VALLEY SANITATION DISTRICT

Por: /s/ Bridget Butterfield Funcionario electoral designado

Legal Notice No. 530987

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald

Bids and Settlements

Public Notice

ARAPAHOE COUNTY

NOTICE OF PARTIAL FINAL SETTLEMENT

ARAPAHOE COUNTY CONTRACT NO: ITB-21-55, ARAPAHOE COUNTY PAVEMENT PRESERVATION TREATMENT PROGRAM

Project No. RB22-300

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of County Commissioners of Arapahoe County, Colorado shall make partial final settlement with Vance Brothers, Inc. for its work completed for Arapahoe County. The work performed under this contract dated March 9, 2022 and Change Order No’s. 1 through 3, generally consists of a Slurry Seal and Chip Seal Application on various streets in unincorporated Arapahoe County.

Any person, co-partnership, association of persons, company or corporation that has furnished labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed or any of its subcontractors or that has supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used by Vance Brothers, Inc. or any of its subcontractors in or about the performance of the work done within unincorporated Arapahoe County, whose claim has not been paid by Vance Brothers, Inc. or any of its subcontractors may file a claim with the Board of County Commissioners of Arapahoe County, 5334 S. Prince St., Littleton, CO 80120, at any time up to and including February 25, 2023

This Notice is published in accordance with §3826-107, C.R.S., and all claims, if any, shall be filed in accordance with this statutory section. Failure on the part of any claimant to file such verified statement and/or claim prior to the aforementioned date for filing claims shall release Arapahoe County, its officers, agents and employees from any or all liability, claims, and suits for payment to Vance Brothers, Inc.

Joan Lopez, Clerk to

contract dated May 31 2022, and through Change

Order 1, for the removal and replacement of cross pans, sidewalk, curb/gutter, and mountable median noses, and curb ramps within urbanized areas of unincorporated Arapahoe County.

Any person, co-partnership, association of persons, company or corporation that has furnished labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed or any of its subcontractors or that has supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used by NORAA Concrete or any of its subcontractors in or about the performance of the work done within unincorporated Arapahoe County, whose claim has not been paid by NORAA

Concrete or any of its subcontractors may file a claim with the Board of County Commissioners of Arapahoe County, 5334 S. Prince St., Littleton, CO 80120, at any time up to and including February 25, 2023.

This Notice is published in accordance with §3826-107, C.R.S., and all claims, if any, shall be filed in accordance with this statutory section. Failure on the part of any claimant to file such verified statement and/or claim prior to the aforementioned date for filing claims shall release Arapahoe County, its officers, agents and employees from any or all liability, claims, and suits for payment to NORAA Concrete.

Joan Lopez, Clerk to the Board

Legal Notice No. Arap 1142

First Publication: January 26, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen Public Notice

NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT BID PACKAGE #07 Furniture CMGC Services at Arapahoe HS, Heritage HS, Littleton HS and Options.

Notice is hereby given that Littleton Public Schools in the county of Arapahoe will on March 7, 2023 pay retainage and make final settlement with OfficeScapes for BID PACKAGE #07 Furniture CMGC Services at Arapahoe HS, Heritage HS, Littleton HS and Options. Any person, co-partnership, association of persons, company or corporation that has furnished labor, material, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed by the contractor identified above or any subcontractor thereof in or about the performance of the work contracted to be done or that has supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used in the prosecution of the work whose claim therefore has not been paid, by the contractor or subcontractor, must file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid on account of such claim, which statement must be filed on or before February 28, 2023. Claims must be submitted to the Board of Education to Littleton Public Schools at the school district’s Property Management Department, 5776 S. Crocker Street, Littleton, CO. 80120 on or before February 28, 2023. Final Settlement will be made and verified claims must be timely filed with Littleton Public Schools. Failure on the part of the claimant to file such statement prior to or on the established date will relieve the School District from any and all liability for such claim, Dated: February 02, 2023.

Legal Notice No. 530978

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 23, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Not consecutive publications

Public Notice

ARAPAHOE COUNTY NOTICE OF PARTIAL FINAL SETTLEMENT ARAPAHOE COUNTY PROJECT NO. ITB-20-25, 2020 STREET MILLING PROGRAM Project No. RB22-110

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of County Commissioners of Arapahoe County, Colorado shall make partial final settlement with Elite Surface Infrastructure, Inc. for its work completed for Arapahoe County. The work performed under this contract dated March 25th, 2020, and through Change Orders 1- 5, for the removal of the top 1”-3” of road surface with a milling machine (both full width and edge milling) at various locations in unincorporated Arapahoe County.

Any person, co-partnership, association of persons, company or corporation that has furnished labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed or any of its subcontractors or that has supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used by Elite Surface Infrastructure, Inc. or any of its subcontractors in or about the performance of the work done within unincorporated Arapahoe County, whose claim has not been paid by Elite Surface Infrastructure, Inc. or any of its subcontractors may file a claim with the Board of County Commissioners of Arapahoe County, 5334 S. Prince St., Littleton, CO 80120, at any time up to and including February 25th, 2023.

This Notice is published in accordance with §3826-107, C.R.S., and all claims, if any, shall be filed in accordance with this statutory section. Failure on the part of any claimant to file such verified statement and/or claim prior to the aforementioned date for filing claims shall release Arapahoe County, its officers, agents and employees from any or all liability, claims, and suits for payment to Elite Surface Infrastructure, Inc.

Joan Lopez, Clerk to the Board

Legal Notice No. Arap 1144

First Publication: January 26, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen

COMBINED NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY PLAINTIFF: CHESAPEAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

v. DEFENDANTS: JOSH LETZ; JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.; and ARAPAHOE COUNTY PUBLIC TRUSTEE TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS, Please take notice:

You and each of you are hereby notified that a Sheriff's Sale of the referenced property is to be conducted by the Sheriff's Office of County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado at 10:00 A.M., on the 16th day of March, 2023, at 13101 East Broncos Parkway, Centennial, CO 80112 phone number 720-874-3845. At which sale, the above described real property and improvements thereon will be sold to the highest bidder. Plaintiff makes no warranty relating to title, possession, or quiet enjoyment in and to said real property in connection with this sale.

BIDDERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE CASH OR CERTIFIED FUNDS SUFFICIENT TO COVER THE MINIMUM BID AT THE TIME OF SALE. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY. Judgment is in the amount of $12,346.08.

This is to advise you that a Sheriff sale proceeding has been commenced through the office of the undersigned Sheriff pursuant to Order for Default Judgment and Order and Decree for Judicial Foreclosure dated November 7, 2022, and C.R.S. §38-38-101 et seq. by CHESAPEAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., the holder and current owner of a lien recorded on February 3, 2021 at 221021678 in the records of the Clerk and Recorder of the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado. The foreclosure is based on a default under the Amended and Restated Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions of Chesapeake Townhomes recorded at June 28, 2016 of the Reception #D6068747 records of the Clerk and Recorder of the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado. The Declaration establishes a lien for the benefit of Chesapeake Homeowners Association, Inc. against real property legally described as follows:

Lot 105, Block 1, Olde Towne Subdivision Filing No. 2, County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado.; Also known as: 11652 E Bayaud Drive, Aurora, CO 80012-1248.

The attorney representing the legal owner of the above described lien is: Kate M. Leason, Reg No. 41025, Altitude Community Law P.C., 555 Zang Street, Suite 100, Lakewood, Colorado 802281011, 303.432.9999.

DATED December 13, 2022.

Tyler S. Brown Arapahoe County Sheriff

By: Sgt. Trent Steffa, Deputy Sheriff Legal Notice No. 530899

First Publication: January 19, 2023 Last Publication: February 16, 2023 Published In: Littleton Independent 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, Colorado, 80110 Public Notice DISTRICT COURT, ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street, #100 Centennial, CO 80112

Plaintiff: SUNBURST HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., a Colorado non-profit corporation;

Defendants: EDWIN A. OLSON IV; FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION; ARAPAHOE COUNTY TREASURER; UNKNOWN TENANT(S) IN POSSESSION.

Attorneys for Plaintiff: THE DUPONT LAW FIRM, LLC Stephane R. Dupont, #39425 Address: PO Box 1073, Castle Rock, CO 80104 Phone Number: (720) 644-6115

Case Number: 2022CV32127

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): Edwin A. Olson IV

You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the court in this action, by filing with the clerk of this court an Answer or other response.

You are required to file your Answer within 35 days after the service of this Summons upon you. Service of the Summons shall be complete on the day of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the clerk of the court.

If you fail to file your answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within 35 days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.

This is an action for judicial foreclosure of an association assessment lien pursuant to C.R.S. 38-33.3-316, in and to real property situated in Arapahoe County, Colorado, more particularly described on Exhibit A, attached hereto and by this reference made a part hereof.

Dated: January 5, 2023

THE DUPONT LAW FIRM, LLC

By: *s/ Stephane R. Dupont Stephane R. Dupont

Exhibit A Lot 21, Block 3, Sunburst Subdivision, County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado.

Also known as: 15936 East Radcliff Place, #B Aurora, CO 80015

Legal Notice No. 530946

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

DISTRICT COURT, ARAPAHOE COUNTY, STATE OF COLORADO Case No.: 2022CV031011 Div: 202

COMBINED NOTICE OF SHERIFF'S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

PLAINTIFF: SABLE LANDING

CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION

v.

tion. A copy of the complaint may be obtained from the clerk of the court.

If you fail to file your answer or other response to the complaint in writing within 35 days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the court for the relief demanded in the complaint without further notice.

This is a judicial foreclosure action affecting real property commonly known as 13872 East Stanford Place, Aurora, CO 80015:

LOT 21, BLOCK 1, CHERRY CREEK POINTE SUBDIVISION, FILING NO. 1, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO.

Dated this 11th day of January, 2023.

HATCH RAY OLSEN CONANT LLC

David W. Bell, Personal Representative of the Estate of Roger D. Bell 1852 S. Ivanhoe Street Denver, CO 80224

Legal Notice No. 301731

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald

Notice

2022PR31408

Tracy Whitehead, Personal Representative 6761 S Cherry St Centennial, Colorado 80122

Legal Notice No. 530973

First publication: January 26, 2023

Last publication: February 09, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Kathleen May Michaels, a/k/a Kathleen M. Michaels, a/k/a Kathleen Michaels, Deceased Case Number 2022PR31434

DEFENDANTS: ROY M. TREGGIARI

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS, Please take notice:

You and each of you are hereby notified that a Sheriff's Sale of the referenced property is to be conducted by the Civil Unit of the Sheriff's Office of Arapahoe County, Colorado at 10:00 O’clock

A.M., on the 23rd day of March, 2023, at 13101 East Broncos Parkway, Centennial, CO 80112, phone number 720-874-3845. At which sale, the above described real property and improvements thereon will be sold to the highest bidder. Plaintiff makes no warranty relating to title, possession, or quiet enjoyment in and to said real property in connection with this sale.

BIDDERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE CASH OR CERTIFIED FUNDS SUFFICIENT TO COVER THE MINIMUM BID AT THE TIME OF SALE.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY. Judgment is in the amount of $16,402.55.

This is to advise you that a Sheriff’s sale proceeding has been commenced through the office of the undersigned Sheriff pursuant to under Order for Default Judgment and Order and Decree for Judicial Foreclosure dated November 10, 2022 and C.R.S. 38-38-101 et seq. by Sable Landing Condominium Association the holder and current owner of a lien recorded on February 20, 2019 at Reception No. D9014549 in the records of the Clerk and Recorder of the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado. The foreclosure is based on a default under the Condominium Declaration for Sable Landing recorded on 10/18/1978 at 1903900, Book 3100 Page 471 in the records of the Clerk and Recorder of the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado. The Declaration establishes a lien for the benefit of Sable Landing Condominium Association against real property legal described as follows:

Condominium Unit 937, Condominium Building

9, Sable Landing, according to the Condominium Map for Sable Landing Subdivision Filing No. 1, Phase 5, recorded in Plat Book 48 at Page 35, and as defined in the Condominium Declaration recorded October 18, 1979 in Book 3100 at Page 471; and amendments and supplements thereto, County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado.;

And also known as:

14852 E. Kentucky Dr. #937, Aurora, CO 80012-1706.

The attorney representing the legal owner of the above described lien is: Kate M. Leason, Reg No. 41025, Altitude Community Law P.C., 555 Zang Street, Suite 100, Lakewood, Colorado 802281011, 303.432.9999.

DATED: December 27, 2022.

Tyler S. Brown, Arapahoe County Sheriff

By: Sgt. Trent Steffa, Deputy Sheriff

Legal Notice No. 530924

First Publication: January 26, 2023

Last Publication: February 23, 2023

Published In: Littleton Independent 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, Colorado, 80110

Public Notice

ARAPAHOE COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, STATE OF COLORADO

Address: 7325 Potomac St. Centennial, CO 80112

Case Number: 2022CV030884 Division: 14

ALT ASSETS, LLC, a Texas limited liability company, Plaintiff, v. ANDREW PARK, individually; COLORADO

HOUSING AND FINANCE AUTHORITY; SUE

SANDSTROM, as the Arapahoe County Public Trustee; OCCUPANTS; and NAMU PARK, as Trustee under the provisions of a Trust Agreement dated January 1st of the year 2020 and known as the Namu Trust, Defendants.

Attorneys for Plaintiff:

Brian T. Ray Christopher J. Conant

Hatch Ray Olsen Conant LLC 730 Seventeenth Street, Suite 200 Denver, Colorado 80202 Phone Number: (303) 298-1800

Email Addresses: bray@hatchlawyers.com; cconant@hatchlawyers.com

Atty. Reg. #s: 34914, 40269

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

TO: NAMU PARK, as Trustee under the provisions of a Trust Agreement dated January 1st of the year 2020 and known as the Namu Trust and any and all occupants.

You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the complaint filed with the court in this action, by filing with the clerk of this court an answer or other response.

You are required to file your answer or other response within 35 days after the service of this Summons upon you. Service of this summons shall be complete on the day of the last publica-

By: s/ Brian T. Ray Brian T. Ray

Attorneys for Plaintiff

In accordance with C.R.C.P. 121 §1-26(7) a copy of this document with original/electronic signatures is being maintained by Hatch Ray Olsen Conant LLC and will be made available for inspection by other parties or the court upon request.

This summons is issued pursuant to Rule 4(g), C.R.C.P., as amended. This form should not be used where personal service is desired.

Legal Notice No. 530960

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 16, 2023 Publisher: Littleton Independent Notice to Creditors

Notice

TO CREDITORS Estate of Agnes Marie Lowman, Deceased Case Number: 2022PR31436

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Attorney for Personal Representatives

The Hickey Law Firm, LLC 1075 South Yukon Street Suite 260 Lakewood, Colorado 80226

Legal Notice No. 531000 First Publication: February 2, 2023 Last Publication: February 16, 2023 Publisher: Littleton Independent

NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Robert H. Emmons, Jr., deceased Case Number: 2022PR31247

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 02, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Erin E. Cook, Personal Representative 2941 Mt. Royal Drive Castle Rock, CO 80104

Legal Notice No.530991 First publication: February 02, 2023 Last

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or tothe District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado or on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Nicole D'Arpa, Attorney for Greta Morgan

Personal Representative

1880 Office Club Pointe, Suite 201 Address Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Legal Notice No. 301736

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Solange M. Holmberg, A.K.A Solange Michele Holmberg, A.K.A Solange M. Petite Deceased Case Number: 22PR598

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 23, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Baysore & Christian Fiduciary Services, LLC, nominated

Personal Representative Karen Miller as Designated Representative 7000 E. Belleview Ave. Ste. 150 Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Legal Notice No. 530974

First Publication: January 26, 2023

Last Publication: February 9, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Carrie Christine Andree, Deceased Case Number: 2022PR031415

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 26, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Alexandria Andree, Personal Representative 11813 W Yuma Street Avondale, AZ, 85323

Legal Notice No. 530975

First Publication: January 26, 2023

Last Publication: February 9, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of DANIEL JAMES ANDRYKOWSKI , AKA DANIEL J. ANDRYKOWSKI, Deceased Case Number: 2022PR31329

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of ARAPAHOE County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023 , or the claims may be forever barred.

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred. Geoffrey L. Pearson Attorney to the Personal Representative 2205 W. 136th Ave, #106-128 Broomfield, CO 80023

February 2, 2023 Last Publication: February 16, 2023 Publisher: Littleton Independent PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Thomas Allen Gerlick, aka Thomas Gerlick Jr., Deceased Case Number: 22PR90

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

John L. Gerlick, Personal Representative 1166 W. Princeton Place Englewood, Colorado 80110

Legal Notice No. 301741

First Publication: February 2 2023 Last Publication: February 16, 2023 Publisher: Englewood Herald

MELISSA MARY ANDRYKOWSKI

Personal Representative Address: 4200 W. 17th Avenue Denver, CO 80204

Legal Notice No. 530983

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS CLAYTON C. MEEKS, a/k/a CLAYTON CARL MEEKS, a/k/a CLAYTON MEEKS, Case Number: 2023PR30052

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado or on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Margaret Merrilyn Meeks, Personal Representative c/o Woodson L. Herring, Esq., Woodson L. Herring, LLC 5800 S. Nevada Street, Littleton, CO 80120

Legal Notice No. 301742 First Publication: February 2, 2023

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado or on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Sean Stephen Michaels Personal Representative 3449 West Alamo Place Littleton, Colorado 80123

Legal Notice No. 301744

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of COLLETTE BERNICE BUTLER, a/k/a COLLETTE B. BUTLER, a/k/a COLLETTE BUTLER; f/n/a COLLETTE BERNICE HONSTEIN, a/k/a COLLETTE B. HONSTEIN, a/k/a COLLETTE HONSTEIN; f/n/a COLLETTE BERNICE ACUNA, a/k/a COLLETTE B. ACUNA, a/k/a COLLETTE ACUNA; f/k/a COLLETTE BERNICE ACUNA-ROWLAND, a/k/a COLLETTE B. ACUNA-ROWLAND, a/k/a COLLETTE ACUNA-ROWLAND, a/k/a COLLETTE B. ROWLAND, a/k/a COLLETTE ROWLAND; f/k/a COLLETTE BERNICE BOSTWICK, a/k/a COLLETTE B. BOSTWICK, a/k/a COLLETTE BOSTWICK, Deceased Case Number: 2022 PR 31437

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Colinda K. Honstein, Personal Representative c/o EIRICH LAW FIRM 10233 S. Parker Road, Suite 300 Parker, CO 80134

Legal Notice No. 530981

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher:Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of ANDREW PAUL BONN, also known as ANDREW P. BONN, and ANDREW BONN, Deceased Case Number: 2022PR31355

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Diane L. Litherland Personal Representative c/o Kokish & Goldmanis, P.C. 316 Wilcox St. Castle Rock, CO 80104

Personal Representative

Legal Notice No. 530988

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of RICHARD STOUT TOBIN, a/k/a RICHARD S. TOBIN, and RICHARD TOBIN, Deceased

Case Number: 2022PR31426

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

John D. Tobin, Personal Representative c/o David P. Reiter, Esq., 1660 S. Albion St., Suite 343, Denver, CO 80222

Legal Notice No.530956

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Doris Jeanne Shockley, a/k/a Doris J. Shockley, and Doris Shockley, Deceased

Case Number:

All

January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of SUZANNE M. KOONTZ, a/k/a SUZANNE MARIE KOONTZ, a/k/a SUZANNE M. MENKE, Deceased Case Number: 2022PR31443

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Jeanette Goodwin Personal Representative P. O. Box 200850 Denver, CO 80220

Bette Heller, Esq. Attorney to the Personal Representative 19671 E. Euclid Dr., Centennial, CO 80016 Phone Number: 303-690-7092

E-mail: bhelleresq@comcast.net

Atty. Reg. #: 10521

Legal Notice No. 301732

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Roy Lilley, Deceased Case Number: 2023PR17

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 2, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Person Giving Notice: Joy Bardin 17631 E Bethany Pl Aurora, CO 80013

Legal Notice No. 530990

First Publication: February 2, 2023

Last Publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Linda Lou Spencer, a/k/a Linda L. Spencer, a/k/a Linda Spencer, Deceased Case Number: 2023PR30003

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred. Sherri L. Goudeau, Personal Representative c/o Davis Schilken, PC 7887 E. Belleview Ave., Suite 820 Denver, CO 80111

Legal Notice No. 530953

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Jennifer Ashley Rowe, deceased Case Number: 2022PR31427

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before June 02, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred. Alan Woolfolk, Personal Representative 18314 Tyler St. NW Elk River, MN 55330

Legal Notice No. 530993

First publication: February 02, 2023

Last publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of EDWARD E. KOONTZ, a/k/a EDWARD EARL KOONTZ, Deceased

Case Number 2022PR31444

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Jeanette Goodwin Personal Representative P. O. Box 200850 Denver, CO 80220

Bette Heller, Esq. Attorney to the Personal Representative 19671 E. Euclid Dr., Centennial, CO 80016

Number: 303-690-7092

FROM PAGE 26 READER

TREATY

FROM PAGE 22

e document came from the National Archives in Washington and will be exhibited only until May 22, because the paper is old and fragile. e treaty’s arrival in Denver is timed for Feb. 2, the 175th anniversary of its signing.

I visited this exhibit in Pueblo when it opened there several years ago and had a chance to see the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo then. It really is a good experience to see those actual old documents instead of settling for a photo!

According to provided information, activities will continue throughout the game up to last call. ere will also be live music from a local DJ at the after party. For all the details, visit https://punchbowlsocial.com/.

LETTERS

FROM PAGE 14

e objection to HOAs, regarding them as a “special interest,” is frankly absurd. People live in HOAs hoping to protect neighborhood aesthetics and their investment. All homeowners are concerned about these things. Council’s majority decisions continue to demonstrate that only developers are worthy of consideration not homeowners / taxpayers. And that is particularly so regarding its apparent objection to this ballot measure.

Finally, the article objects to neighborhood networking. Well, welcome to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. With all due respect, citizen-led referenda and initiatives are driven by the city council ignoring residents’ legitimate quality of life concerns.

It is naive that anyone would regard the poten-

E-mail: bhelleresq@comcast.net

Atty. Reg. #: 10521

Legal Notice No. 301733

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald

Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of PAMELA JEANNE COMO, Deceased Case Number: 2022PR31401

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Michael M. Como, Personal Representative 1591 South Spruce Street Denver, Colorado 80231

Legal Notice No. 530952

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Phillip Norman Dudley Sr., a/k/a Phillip N. Dudley Sr., a/k/a Phillip Dudley Sr., Deceased Case Number 22PR31282

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 19, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Edward Dudley, Personal Representative c/o Davis Schilken, PC 7887 E. Belleview Ave., Suite 820 Denver, CO 80111

Legal Notice No. 530948

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

e treaty was signed on Feb. 2, 1848, marking the end of the Mexican-American War. By shifting the U.S. borders south from the Arkansas River to the Rio Grande and west to the coast of California, Mexico relinquished 525,000 square miles of territory to the United States.

e land became all or part of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming, as well as a large part of western and southern Colorado. Present borders were taking shape then. Redrawing boundaries did not change linguistic, ethnic or geologic boundaries that were

tial changes that a yes vote on Ballot Question 300 would be undemocratic. Align with state code.

Frank Atwood Littleton

Say no to 300

Congratulations for running “ e Long Way Home,” an in-depth article in the Jan. 19 Independent that focused on the housing crisis in Colorado.

It pointed out that one of the serious barriers to a ordable housing is neighborhood opposition to higher density developments. at very scenario is playing out in Littleton.

On March 7, Littleton will hold an election forced by a small group of citizens, many of the same ones who circulated a petition to overturn the Aspen Grove rezone because they were unhappy with multi-family housing at a light rail station. is special election, which will cost the citizens of Littleton $165,000, will overturn important parts of the city’s long-established charter.

I urge a no vote on Question 300 because:

It essentially is a back-door approach to seizing

Publisher: Littleton Independent Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of GABRIEL STUART KEITH, a/k/a GABRIEL S. KEITH, a/k/a GABRIEL KEITH, a/k/a GABE KEITH Deceased

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 26, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

Gabrielle L. Keith, Personal Representative c/o EIRICH LAW FIRM 10233 S. Parker Road, Suite 300

in place prior to the treaty. is exhibit, rst presented at the Pueblo History Museum several years ago, will be of interest to history bu s of all ages. It includes maps, documents and numerous related artifacts, including clothing, guns, kitchenware, photographs of those early hardy types, items that will interest children of all ages, as well as their parents..

A number of early southern Colorado residents were Mexican citizens, who eventually lost their lands and wealth. And Mexican women lost many rights they had under Mexican law, since American women could not own land at that time.

Dawn Di Prince, History Colorado’s executive director, said: “In some ways, it is hard to fathom that old handwritten pages would wield such power over the lives and lands of so many in this part of the world, but this treaty dramatically altered the lives of many families who call southern Colorado home today.

power.

It will make it much easier for small groups to force a special, o -term election like this one by cutting in half the number of signatures needed on a petition.

It will force unscheduled — and expensive — elections to be held outside of the usual time, resulting in low voter turnout and decisions made by only a small number of voters.

It will give greatly increased power to specialinterest groups that may not re ect the interests or needs of the city as a whole.

What will come next? Attacks on the Universal Land Use Codes that the city spent years developing? Eliminating any opportunities for the city to provide housing options to people of all ages, incomes and abilities?

Littleton is a representative democracy. We elect o cials to study issues and make sound decisions. Instead of attempting this back-door approach to seizing power, those unhappy with a city council decision should be upfront about their intentions and run for o ce.

Susan ornton

Publisher: Littleton Independent Name Changes

NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Public Notice is given on January 24, 2023 that a Petition for a Change of Name of a Minor Child has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court.

The Petition requests that the name of Henry Matthew Stoutfellow Reagan-Wilson be changed to Henry Jameson Stoutfellow Reagan-Wilson Case No. 2022C047215

By: Clerk of Court/Deputy Clerk Legal Notice No. 530995 First Publication: February 2, 2023 Last Publication: February 16, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent

NOTICE

Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

Public notice is given on December 15, 2022, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court.

Public notice is given on December 23, 2022, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court.

The petition requests that the name of Annabelle Fallas be changed to Anna Maria Fallas Case No.: 22 C 100642

By: Kim Boswell Clerk of Court / Deputy Clerk Legal Notice No. 530951

Publication: February 2, 2023

Littleton Independent

NOTICE Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

Public notice is given on December 28, 2022, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court.

The petition requests that the name of Jennifer Rammirez Garcia be changed to Jennifer Ramirez Garcia Case No.: 22 C 100888

By: Kim Bosell Clerk of Court / Deputy Clerk Legal Notice No. 530950

Publication: January 19, 2023

Clerk of Court / Deputy Clerk

Legal Notice No. 530964

Name

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before May 26, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.

The petition requests that the name of Numair Ali Javed be changed to Numair Hashim Khan Case No.: 22C100844

By: Kim Boswell Clerk of Court / Deputy Clerk

Legal Notice No. 530947

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

Publication: February 2, 2023 Publisher: Littleton Independent

NOTICE Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

Public notice is given on January 3, 2023, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court.

The petition requests that the name of Gregory Robert Shettler be changed to Gregory Robert Shea

The

By: Kim Boswell Clerk of Court / Deputy Clerk

Legal Notice No. 530961

First Publication: January 19, 2023 Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

Public notice is given on November 7, 2022, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court.

The petition requests that the name of Alycia Rene Curtis be changed to Alycia Rene Owens Case No.: 22C100758

By:

Kim Boswell Clerk of Court / Deputy Clerk

Legal Notice No. 530949

First Publication: January 19, 2023

Last Publication: February 2, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent ###

Littleton | Englewood Legals

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