Highlands Ranch Metro District F A L L 2021
INSIDE This Issue C-470 Public Input Sought . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Leadership Outlook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Recreation Programs.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-21 Election Information . . . 4 Avoid Conflicts with. .Coyotes. 5 Nature EdVentures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Water Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
A PUBLICATION PROVIDING INFORMATION ABOUT
2013 SeeSummer T-Ball, Baseball, Project Updates Softball Registration Page 5
See Page 14
highlandsranch.org
Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates
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WE’RE READY TO
#playhighlandsranch REGISTRATION FOR SPRING PROGRAMS BEGINS AS EARLY AS JANUARY 2022 • • • •
Youth flag football league & clinic Youth cheerleading Adult pickleball leagues & clinics Adult softball leagues
• • • • •
Adult bocce ball league & clinic Youth lacrosse camps Skateboarding camps Skyhawks sports camps Horseback riding lessons
And even more to come during our summer and fall seasons, including youth baseball, softball & T-ball!
ONLINE REGISTRATION AND PROGRAM DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE AT HIGHLANDSRANCH.ORG/SIGNMEUP
HIGHLANDS RANCH METRO DISTRICT
HOLIDAY CELEBRATION CELEBRATION
SATURDAY
DEC. 4
10 A.M.-3 P.M.
Santa visits, vendors, games and more at the Highlands Ranch Mansion
Visit highlandsranch.org for for more event info Visit highlandsranch.org event details.
Senior Center project progresses
Leadership Outlook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The Metro District Board of Directors continues to move forward with planning for the future Highlands Ranch Senior Center. These plans are progressing as the Metro District works to serve the needs of the community’s growing senior population.
Local Government. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Around the Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 Water Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Meet Your Local Government The Highlands Ranch Metro District is responsible for: • Water and sanitation services through an agreement with Centennial Water and Sanitation District • Recreation programs and services
Leadership Outlook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
In August, our board approved hiring a project architect, OZ Architecture. Many of their projects are senior focused and board members look forward to their creativity. The new facility will expand services and programs for seniors and their families including socialization opportunities; health, wellness, fitness and recreation opportunities; lifelong learning opportunities; and social services including information, resources and referrals. The project timeline through the end of 2021 will include the development of schematic and conceptual designs as well as site planning. The senior center site is east of the Broadway/ Highlands Ranch Parkway intersection on the south side of Highlands Ranch Parkway. On behalf of the Metro District Board of Directors, I invite you to learn more about this project at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.
• Developing and caring for parks, trails and natural open space areas • Building community infrastructure, including major roads, traffic signals, and storm drainage and stormwater management • Managing and maintaining landscaping, fence and community entries along major roads • Street lighting through Xcel Energy • Community events and volunteer activities • Managing the Highlands Ranch Mansion Metro District Board of Directors Mark Dickerson, Chair Allen Dreher, Vice Chair Carolyn Schierholz, Treasurer Renee Anderson, Director Andy Jones, Director Nancy Smith, Director Jim Worley, Director
Mark Dickerson Chair, Highlands Ranch Metro District Board of Directors
Learn more about our budget process Planning for the 2022 Metro District budget is well underway. Our staff works together at all levels to prepare and present budget recommendations to the board, through a priority-based budgeting approach. This is also part of our strategic planning process. The timeline for our 2022 budget process is: • October 15 – The proposed budget will be posted to highlandsranch.org under News and Finance. • November 5 – the board of directors holds a budget workshop to review the 2022 proposed budget. This will be held from noon to 5 p.m. at the Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Drive. Residents can attend virtually via Zoom. The Zoom link will be posted to the workshop agenda at highlandsranch.org ahead of the meeting.
Fall ‘21
• November 30 – Residents can comment on the proposed budget at the public hearing or in advance by sending an email to finance@highlandsranch.org. The public hearing will be held at 6 p.m. at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Dr. • December 13 – The board of directors approves the 2022 budget at their board meeting.
FRONT COVER: Fishing is popular at Fly’n B Park.
Mike Renshaw General Manager, Highlands Ranch Metro District
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If you would like more information or if you have questions about this or other Metro District programs, projects or services, please contact me at 720-240-4910 or mrenshaw@highlandsranch.org.
Local Government
It’s all on the web
highlandsranch.org When you visit highlandsranch.org, you will find valuable information about the programs, services and activities of the Highlands Ranch Metro District. You’ll also find links to fellow service providers in the community. New features continue to be added, so stay tuned and visit often. Twitter
Nextdoor
LinkedIn Metro District Contacts: Highlands Ranch Metro District 62 Plaza Drive Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-791-0430 Visit us at highlandsranch.org Email: info@highlandsranch.org Metro District Parks, Recreation & Open Space Service Center 3280 Redstone Park Circle Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-791-2710 Fax: 303-791-3047 Email: parksinfo@highlandsranch.org
Property tax is Metro District’s primary revenue source As you read in Mike Renshaw’s column on page 3, the Metro District is in the midst of the 2022 budget planning cycle. Key dates of the budget process are included in Mike’s column. You may not know that the Metro District’s primary source of revenue is property taxes. Property taxes collected from homeowners and commercial businesses support the many municipal services provided by the Metro District. 2021 is a reassessment year that impacts the amount property owners will pay in property taxes in 2022 and 2023. Per the Douglas County Assessor, the average single family home value increased from $531,000 to $598,000 (12.7%) since the prior assessment in 2019. While the proposed property tax rate imposed by the Metro District is unchanged at 11.205, most property owners will most likely see an increase in their total property tax paid.
For more information about the reassessment process, please visit douglas.co.us/ assessor/2021-2022-property-valuation. To take a deeper dive into the Metro District’s financial picture, please visit the Finance section at highlandsranch.org, which also links to our Open Budget resources. You can dive into the Capital Improvement Plan as well as details about the Metro District’s revenues and expenses.
Apply for the Citizens Academy The Highlands Ranch Citizens Academy, established by the Highlands Ranch Metro District in 2020, will kick off new sessions in January 2022. The program aims to build the civic capacity of Highlands Ranch residents. This sevensession course exposes participants to key topics and issues in Highlands Ranch and introduces opportunities for civic involvement. To learn more, and to apply for this program, please visit highlandsranch.org/citizensacademy.
Fall ‘21
Recreation Contact: Metro District Recreation Services Phone: 303-791-2710 Fax: 303-470-9516 Email: recreationinfo@highlandsranch.org
Editor: Sherry Eppers, Community Relations Manager Contributing Writers: Courtney Kuhlen, Community Relations Specialist Kari Larese, Community Relations Manager, Centennial Water & Sanitation District Jodie McCann, AAPS Coordinator Pam Moisey, Reservations Specialist Dave Parks, CPRP, Recreation Supervisor Carolyn Peters, CPRP, Recreation Manager Luke Ruter, CYSA, Recreation Coordinator Brenda Willcutt, Recreation Assistant
The Metro District strives to be transparent. To that end, our financial information is posted to our website at highlandsranch.org.
Local elections are scheduled for May 3, 2022
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SEATS UP FOR ELECTION
TYPE OF ELECTION:
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SEATS UP FOR ELECTION
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SEATS UP FOR ELECTION
TYPE OF ELECTION:
TYPE OF ELECTION:
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MAIL-IN BALLOT
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©2021 Highlands Ranch Metro District
POLLING PLACE
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MAIL-IN ABSENTEE VOTING
ELECTION INFORMATION: highlandsranch.org/ elections
POLLING PLACE
MAIL-IN ABSENTEE VOTING
ELECTION INFORMATION: ELECTION INFORMATION: centennialwater.org/vote southmetro.org
Report a Concern
Metro District staff is working on a number of projects around the community. This update provides the latest information on these projects. To learn more and to follow project progress, please visit highlandsranch.org and click on Project Updates.
If you see a broken sprinkler head along the parkway, or graffiti in one of our community’s parks, do you know how to report the issue? Non-emergency issues or concerns can be reported through the form at the link below. Metro District staff will respond to the reports Monday through Friday during business hours.
Historic Park silos Later this month, new roofs will be installed on four barn silos that are located in the future Historic Park adjacent to the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E Gateway Drive. The replacement roofs will help prevent any future degradation of the 80-year-old, masonry silos. Douglas County has generously partnered on the ongoing restoration of the properties surrounding the Mansion in an effort to help preserve one of the county’s historic landmarks.
Plum Valley Park playground The new playground at Plum Valley Park, 10230 Westridge Village Parkway, is currently under construction and is expected to be completed during October, weather permitting. It will replace the previous equipment that was 28 years old. Based on resident feedback, some of the features will include a playground zipline, rubber surfacing around the main play structure, swings, slides, sensory panels and a variety of climbing elements. The new design will provide a physically challenging and mentally stimulating inclusive play space that promotes social interaction.
Parkway landscaping conversion demonstration sites Last year, new landscaping designed to be more drought tolerant and lower maintenance was installed at three locations along our major roadways. We are excited to move on to the next phase of these demonstration sites – public feedback. You can share your thoughts on individual sites or the overall demonstration project through Wednesday, Oct. 13 at highlandsranch.org/ parkwayconversion. Your comments will help us to determine the next steps for this program.
Central Park shade structures The new shade structures and fabric sails over The Patio at Central Park, 1367 Central Park Drive, offer visitors a break from Colorado’s sunshine. The project was completed this summer. For information on reserving The Patio or any of our other park shelters, please visit highlandsranch.org/ reservations.
Around the Ranch
Projects are underway
highlandsranch.org/resources/report-a-concern
Learn how to avoid conflicts with coyotes Headlines from across the country highlight the extent to which coyotes have adjusted very well to humandisturbed environments. But what can homeowners do to avoid wildlife conflicts? Coyotes live throughout the Denver metro area yearround, and sightings in Highlands Ranch’s open space, trails and neighborhoods are common. Our close proximity to wildlife makes it important to understand animal behavior. The Metro District offers free coyote conflict prevention home audits to help educate homeowners about coyote behavior and to point out possible attractants in their yards. During a coyote conflict prevention home audit, a Metro District park ranger or staff member will walk the homeowner’s property and point out sheltered areas, water sources and food sources that might attract coyotes. Home audits are available throughout the year and may be scheduled by calling 720-240-5919 or emailing info@highlandsranch.org.
Fall ‘21
Senior Center The board of directors, in August, approved OZ Architects to design the center. The development of schematic and conceptual designs, and site planning are underway. The senior center site is east of the Broadway/Highlands Ranch Parkway intersection on the south side of Highlands Ranch Parkway.
Fly’n B Park Pickleball courts Staff is conducting site analysis and has not determined a final location for future courts. 5
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Metro District staff is investigating the condition of the Fly’n B House and will report back to the board of directors this fall with a final project recommendation.
Around the Ranch
Tammy Tucker named new Director of Parks, Recreation & Open Space The Metro District is happy to welcome Tammy Tucker as the new Director of Parks, Recreation & Open Space. Tucker has more than 25 years of experience in the parks and recreation industry, in municipal, nonprofit and university recreation operations. She has experience with facility construction and management, which will lend itself to the Highlands Ranch Senior Center being planned by the Metro District. “I look forward to getting to know the people in Highlands Ranch, and finding the best ways to service the community through our operations and programs,” Tucker said. “I believe parks, recreation and open space services are an important platform for building community. We have a responsibility to provide quality amenities and programs that encourage people to come out and engage, helping build deeper connections within the community.” Tucker is a recreational runner, and she enjoys spending most of her spare time with her family. She and her husband have two teenage daughters who ride with the Westernaires, so a great deal of her time is spent with them and their horses. Tammy can be reached at ttucker@highlandsranch.org.
Celebrating 40 years of our parks, trails & open space Since our community’s founding in 1981, Highlands Ranch residents have taken advantage of the recreational opportunities available in our parks and on our trails. As these throwback photos from the early 1980s prove – fashions may change, but the enjoyment from being active outside is timeless. During the past four decades, the Metro District has grown to include 70+ miles of trails, 26 parks and 2,650 acres of open space. Visit highlandsranch.org/40thanniversary to learn more about the modern history of our community.
Visit these upcoming events The Metro District is a presenter or partner on these upcoming events:
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Highlands Ranch Substation, 9250 Zotos Dr.
Last Stop at the Mansion Sunday, Oct. 31, 6:30 – 9 p.m. outdoors at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Dr.
Adult Health & Information Fair Saturday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m. – noon at the Recreation Center at Eastridge, 9568 S. University Blvd.
Veterans Day Thursday, Nov. 11, 6:15 p.m. at the Douglas County Library at Highlands Ranch, 9292 S. Ridgeline Blvd.
Holiday Celebration at the Mansion Saturday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Dr.
Santa Visits Saturday, Dec. 11, 10 a.m.-noon at Santa’s little red house on the corner of Broadway and Plaza near the Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Dr.
Learn about the Mansion’s unique history Farmhouse to Mansion: Celebrating 130 Years Friday, Dec. 17 from 6 to 9 p.m. Follow the evolution of this iconic community landmark from its beginnings as a small stone farmhouse to the 27,000-square-foot Mansion we love today. Hear from Susie Appleby, Mansion Volunteer and & Historic Programs Coordinator, about one of the most historically significant properties in Colorado. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with self-guided tours available; program begins at 7 p.m. Reservations are required. See the Mansion decorated for the holidays. A cash bar will be available with beer, wine and a signature cocktail.
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Fall ‘21
This event will be held at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Drive. Learn more about the Mansion at highlandsranchmansion.com.
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Before discarding anything down your sink, stop and ask yourself if it should go down the sink or if the trash is a better option. Fats, oils and grease can build up in sanitary sewer lines and cause backups that can potentially flow into homes. These backups can be dangerous and costly to clean up. Help reduce the risk of this from happening by disposing of fats, oils and grease in the trash. Don’t wash them down the sink or garbage disposal. Use a metal can to collect the grease, pour it into the can, let it cool and then safely discard the can in your trash. Examples of fats, oils and grease: • Cooking oil • Butter • Salad dressing
• Gravy • Mayonnaise • Sauces
Water Update
Fats, oils and grease can cause costly backups
Water FAQs Do you have a question about our water supply in Highlands Ranch, a leak or the water pressure coming out of your tap? Find answers to these questions and more online at centennialwater.org. Visit the list of Frequently Asked Questions for information at your fingertips. Click Water and Wastewater FAQs under Hot Topics on the home page of the website.
How would you learn about a water emergency? If there was an emergency in the Centennial Water service area that impacted your water at home, how would you find out? Communications will be sent out through a variety of resources, make sure you are signed up to receive them!
CodeRED
Visit dcsheriff.net/codered to sign up
Follow Centennial Water on Facebook at facebook.com/centennialwaterandsanitationdistrict
eNewsletter
Subscribe to the Centennial Water eNewsletter by sending an email to info@centennialwater.org
Time to start dialing back on your outdoor irrigation. Water budgets end Oct. 15. Fall ‘21
Outdoor water budgets begin April 15 and end October 15.
Your outdoor water budget is coming to an end. You should be dialing back your outdoor water use if you haven’t already. Your outdoor water budget ends October 15. Your water budget can be found on your water bill. To learn more about your water budget or water conservation information, contact Water Efficiency and Conservation Coordinator Thomas Riggle at 720-240-4918 or triggle@highlandsranch.org. 7
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Every customer has a unique water budget, a method of computing your bi-monthly water bill based on indoor and outdoor use. Your water budget changes during the outdoor irrigation season, providing enough water for a healthy landscape but not so much that the resource is wasted. Your water budget gradually increases from early spring to mid-summer, and decreases at the end of summer into early fall.
FA L L 2021
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PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
Highlands Ranch Metro District
PAID
HIGHLANDS
RANCH
25
TH
ANNIVERSARY
Celebrating our history, building our future
A Publication Providing Information About: Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates
A Publication Providing Information for:
Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates
HIGHLANDS RANCH, COLORADO PERMIT NO. 93 CRRT WSS
Highlands Ranch Metro District 62 Plaza Drive Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
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Metro District Residential Customer
See the Active Adult program insert inside.
A Publication Providing Information for: Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates
Local Government Parks & Open Space Recreation Public Works Water & Sanitation Fire & Safety Get Involved Employment
30/100/100/30 61/0/100/3 0/35/100/0 100/100/20/20 100/30/0/0 0/100/100/10 0/60/100/0 100/90/0/0
This year, our community gardeners have grown an impressive amount in our three garden locations at Cheese Ranch Historic & Natural Area, Dad Clark Park and Foothills Park. Learn more about our community gardens, including how you can sign up for a plot next year, at highlandsranch.org/gardens.
Attend a board meeting Metro District board meetings are held at 6 p.m. the last Tuesday of each month (with rare exceptions due to holiday schedules) temporarily at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Drive. Board study sessions are held the Wednesday prior to board meetings at 6 p.m. at the same location. The public is encouraged to attend. Visit highlandsranch.org and click on the Local Government link for a meeting schedule and COVID-19 related details. Centennial Water and Sanitation District board meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. the last Monday of each month (with rare exceptions due to holiday schedules) at the John D. Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Drive. Monthly board study sessions are held the Tuesday prior to the board meeting at 7:30 a.m. in the same location. Visit centennialwater.org to view a meeting schedule and a link to attend virtually. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom.
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Stronger together
The mission of the Partnership of Douglas County Governments is to build and maintain relationships, foster communication and share information among local governmental entities to identify and achieve cost savings; improvements in operations, programming efficiency, and service enhancements countywide. The Metro District is proud to chair the Partnership in 2022. Learn more at douglascountypartnership.org.
Wintry weather info for residents
Metro District Service Center
This fall and winter, make sure you know who is responsible for snow removal on streets, trails, parkway sidewalks and residential sidewalks. Learn more at highlandsranch.org/snowremoval.
The renovation of the Metro District Parks, Recreation & Open Space Service Center is complete. The project included the addition of new workspaces and a new fleet building, along with renovated offices and workspace in the main building. See the improved facilities at 3280 Redstone Park Circle.