Messenger Spring 2021

Highlands Ranch Metro District S p r i n g 2021

Inside This Issue C-470 Public Input Sought . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Local project updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Recreation Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-21 Highlands Ranch’s 40th anniversary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Nature EdVentures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Recreation programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Drought conditions & water conservation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

A Publication Providing Information About

Last chance 2013 Summer to register forT-Ball, Baseball, Softball Registration baseball, T-ball and softball.

See Page 14

See Pages 8–9

highlandsranch.org

Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates

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Learn in the great outdoors Advance registration is required one week in advance at highlandsranch.org/signmeup for all of the following Nature EdVentures programs.

Nature Camp Ages 7-10

Save a Bee All ages

Introduction to Fishing - All ages

Sunday, May 9 2-4 p.m.

Tuesday, June 15 5:30-7 p.m.

June 21-25 or July 19-23 8:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

Wednesday, June 2 6-8 p.m.

Kids Fishing Day at Fly’n B Pond - Ages 6-14 Saturday, June 5 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

PLUS

Bee-utiful Mother’s Day Wildflower Hike Ages 8+

Don’t miss out on this summer’s new, free Pop-up Nature Centers in our parks! Follow our Facebook page for future dates, themes, and locations. @HighlandsRanchMetroDistrict

Learn more and register at highlandsranch.org/nature

Gather AND celebrate

LIFE, HISTORY & COMMUNITY

Laura Murray Photography

Searching for the perfect venue?

The Highlands Ranch Mansion is now booking weddings, private events and celebrations through 2022.

Please call 303-791-0177 for information about renting the Mansion for your once in a lifetime occasion.

H IGH L A ND S R A N C H MA N S I O N. C O M

Local Government Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Good News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Celebrate Highlands Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Highlands Ranch Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Recreation Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Tennis Programs & Park Services. . . . . . . . . 10 Green Highlands Ranch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Community celebrates 40th anniversary of Highlands Ranch

Leadership Outlook

Table of Contents

Our community has experienced so many changes over the last four decades. It’s hard to believe in 1981, the first homes and the initial infrastructure were built to establish Highlands Ranch. Today, our community has a population of more than 98,000 people and is a nationally recognized master planned community.

Over that time, families have called Highlands Ranch home – and second-generation residents are now buying homes here to raise their families.

I’m proud of the work the Metro District has done to build our wonderful community. Our contribution has included streets, stormwater, infrastructure, parks, trails, community events, recreation programs and much more to create a community you’re proud to call home.

I hope you’ll join me in recognizing the work of many individuals, companies and organizations who have collaborated to create a vibrant, successful community on what was once a prairie south of Denver. We’re proud to join our partners including the Highlands Ranch Community Association, to celebrate our community’s four decades – and to wish Highlands Ranch a very happy 40th anniversary!

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 • Developing and managing 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 • Community events and volunteer activities • Managing the Highlands Ranch Mansion • Street lighting through Xcel Energy Metro District Board of Directors

Front Cover:

Photo by Courtney Kuhlen

This year is a busy year for the Metro District. At a time when we’re celebrating the last four decades of our community, we’re also looking ahead and planning for the future.

My priorities for 2021 include the following highlights: I’m very excited to lead the final stages of site selection, planning, and ultimate construction of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center. Keeping the project moving forward and delivering the senior center on-time and on-budget is a major priority. I’m very confident we will deliver a facility and outstanding programming the entire community will be very proud of.

I am a huge advocate for the use of technology that allows us as a local government to more efficiently provide our services and better engage with the community. I have several technology-related initiatives I’ll be discussing with the board of directors and staff, including a more modern and automated meeting agenda and meeting minutes platform -- and videotaping and archiving board meetings. I think both of these initiatives will enhance our transparency and allow staff to work more efficiently.

I’m also a strong proponent of performance measurement. There’s an old adage that says “What gets measured, gets done.” I believe that to be true, but more importantly I believe things get done more effectively and efficiently when performance is tracked and routinely monitored and reported. I plan to implement a performance measurement system here that will involve each department or function of the Metro District developing two or three key measures, or Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), that capture a critical service or function provided to the community. These KPIs will be tied directly to the five strategic and budgetary priorities established by the board of directors. Once the program is established, staff and I will present quarterly reports to the board and post these reports to our website for the public to review. The idea behind these quarterly dashboard reviews is to allow us to make periodic adjustments in specific areas, rather than waiting until the end of the year when it’s difficult to make meaningful adjustments.

I’m always available to answer questions on these and other topics, so please contact me at mrenshaw@highlandsranch.org, or at 720-240-4910.

Mike Renshaw General Manager, Highlands Ranch Metro District 3

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Learn about the Metro District’s T-ball, baseball, and softball leagues on Pages 8 and 9.

Top priorities for the Metro District in 2021

Spring ‘21

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

Local Government Update

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 visit often.

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram

Nextdoor

LinkedIn Metro District Contacts: Highlands Ranch Metro District 62 Plaza Drive Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-791-0430 Fax: 303-791-0437 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

Spring ‘21

Metro District General Manager Mike Renshaw has more than 27 years experience in local government leadership and management. He started his role as general manager in January, and staff sat down with Mike to ask him questions so residents could get to know him . . .

When you visited Highlands Ranch, what was your first impression?

Although I visited the Denver area more than twenty years ago, upon my first visit to Highlands Ranch in November, I was immediately struck by the natural beauty of the mountains in the not-so-far distance -- and that the parkways were so meticulously cared for. I was also really impressed by the number of parks and trails, and how everything is so interconnected.

What drew you to Highlands Ranch?

Over the course of my career, I’ve been fortunate to be both a city manager and county manager.

I’ve always enjoyed new challenges, and after researching the Highlands Ranch community and learning more about the organization and its processes, I felt transitioning to a general manager role would be a professionally rewarding challenge. I was also very confident my background and experiences in city and county government management would be an asset here.

What is your approach to working with the public?

I’ve always believed it’s very important for a manager to be easily accessible and responsive to resident issues and concerns. It’s been my practice over the years to post my cell phone number on the agency website so residents can more readily reach me should I be away from the office.

Recreation Contact: Metro District Recreation Services Phone: 303-791-2710 Fax: 303-470-9516 Email: recreationinfo@highlandsranch.org Visit us at highlandsranch.org.

I also think it’s important for a manager to get out into the community and directly engage with residents. When working with the public, I think it’s important a manager actively listens more than he or she speaks, regardless if they’re new to the community or long-tenured. Although the pandemic has certainly had an impact on our ability to interact face-to-face, I look forward to meeting with residents and local businesses to discuss the fantastic projects we have underway.

The Metro District Messenger is published four times annually. Visit highlandsranch.org or send an Email message to info@highlandsranch.org.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy hiking the trails in Highlands Ranch and being outdoors exploring the area with my wife Judy. We’ve been fortunate over the past several weeks to explore several state parks. I also really enjoy learning about the history of the area that I manage and live in. I’ve enjoyed visiting several museums and of course loved touring our historic Highlands Ranch Mansion.

Editor: Sherry Eppers, Community Relations Manager

Messenger

Getting to know Metro District General Manager Mike Renshaw

Contributing Writers: Amber Garrett, CPRP, CYSA, Recreation Coordinator Courtney Kuhlen, Community Relations Specialist Kari Larese, Community Relations Coordinator Pam Moisey, Reservations Specialist Dave Parks, Recreation Supervisor Carolyn Peters, CPRP, Recreation Manager Luke Ruter, Recreation Coordinator Brenda Willcutt, Recreation Assistant ©2021 Highlands Ranch Metro District

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What else would you like to share with residents?

I think the most important message I’d like to convey is if a resident ever has a question, concern, or simply wants to chat about our operations or programs, please call me at 303.791.0430.

Funding infrastructure in Highlands Ranch Highlands Ranch owns more than $100 million in capital assets. Funding to maintain and replace these assets, as well as funding for future improvements, is a significant component of the annual budget.

Funding for new capital improvements comes from three primary sources: system development fees, Colorado Lottery proceeds, and interest earned on those fund balances. System development fees are paid by developers at the time of construction. Highlands Ranch receives a share of Colorado Lottery proceeds based on our population.

Funding for replacement of existing assets, such as playgrounds, park restrooms, and park shelters comes from property tax revenue and cell site leases. In 2021, for a home valued at $500,000, the total property tax paid to the Metro District would be $401. Of that amount, $46— or 11% goes to fund replacement of existing assets.

Tanks Skate Park This spring, the skate park equipment at Tanks Park will be replaced with new ramps. Construction is anticipated to begin in March, weather dependent. Tanks Skate Park was originally installed in 2001, and offers a great location for beginning and intermediate riders. The park is located at 10371 S. Broadway.

The Patio at Central Park New shade structures will be added to The Patio at Central Park, 1367 Park Central Drive. The Patio is a large picnic area located on the west side of the park and is perfect to rent for large gatherings.

Additional shade was requested by users and will make this popular area more comfortable during warm summer days. During construction, which is expected to be completed by the end of June, The Patio will be closed to users but the park’s restrooms and water fountain will remain accessible.

Good News

Stay up to date on current projects equipment and budget when planning replacements. An on-site, open house style meeting for users will be held from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 27. Drop by the park to provide your input about what you would like to see at the playground and to ask any questions you have about the project. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Fly’n B Park Planning is underway for the next phase of renovation on the historic home site at Fly’n B Park, 2910 Plaza Drive. The Fly’n B House, originally built in 1906, is tucked beneath large trees in between the park’s pond and meandering paths.

A first phase of work on the house was completed in 2014. It included improving the structural stability of the building and replacing both the roof and siding. The next phase of renovation will focus on the interior of the building and parking improvements.

New pickleball courts

Project updates featured on website

Planning continues for a new, standalone pickleball facility in Highlands Ranch. The Metro District currently has four outdoor courts at Tanks Park, and hopes to meet the growing demand for the sport by adding more courts at a new facility. Staff is currently identifying possible sites. As these possible locations are examined, more details will be shared and opportunities for public feedback will be available.

Visit highlandsranch.org/news-events/project-updates to learn more about the Metro District’s projects as well as other new construction projects around Highlands Ranch.

Plum Valley Playground The playground at Plum Valley Park, 10230 Westridge Village Parkway, is scheduled for replacement later this year. The current playground equipment is 28 years old. The project is part of the Metro District’s Capital Improvement Plan that aims to replace one playground each year, pending budget approval and availability of funds. Staff considers the condition of existing

Monitoring COVID-19 public health orders & local impact

Planning for the Highlands Ranch Senior Center is underway.

For updates on the progress, visit the Metro District’s website at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.

You will find the following information:

Questions? Send a message to info@highlandsranch.org.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve and impact our community, Metro District staff is actively monitoring public health orders and partners with Tri-County Health Department. Activities, events and recreation programs are being planned in accordance with current public health orders.

Find local COVID-19 updates at highlandsranch.org/covid.

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• Project background • Summary of public involvement • Next steps • How to get involved • Facts and frequently asked questions • Additional documentation

Spring ‘21

Senior Center project updates

Celebrate Highlands Ranch

Metro District by the numbers

26 parks

2,650 acres of open space

70+ miles of trails

98,000 people

40 years of building a unique community

Then and now at Northridge Park Northridge Park, 8800 S. Broadway, opened in 1982 as the first park in our community. The photo below taken during the dedication celebration that year, shows newly planted trees, which over the years have grown into a large, beautiful canopy. View more vintage pictures of Highlands Ranch at highlandsranch.org/40thanniversary.

Did you know...

Highlands Ranch and Douglas County have received many accolades over the last few decades. Our community has been named among the

healthiest communities in the nation and among the best places to live

over the years. Learn more about our community’s national recognition at highlandsranch.org/community-recognition.

Messenger

Spring ‘21

Timeless beauty on display at the Mansion This year the Highlands Ranch Mansion is celebrating its 130th anniversary, and one of the oldest pieces inside the historic estate is a stately grandfather clock in the living room.

The clock is believed to have been built in the early 1900s and sold by Walter Durfee, who was known for his clock line of unequaled quality. The wooden case was hand carved in Italy and features 14 cherub faces in addition to two winged angels on the sides. The clock measures approximately 5.5 feet tall and was built into the studs of the room. While it looks quite imposing and heavy, much of it is hollow.

“It is such a stunning piece, and completely unique to the Mansion. Its cheerful Westminster chimes and bells have been echoing through the building’s halls for almost a century now,” said Susie Appleby, volunteer and historic programs coordinator.

Among other delicate details, a phrase is inscribed across the bottom of the wall clock and is from Dante’s Divine Comedy. The saying roughly translates to, “Time passes, but man perceives it not.”

Don’t let time slip by – plan your visit today to learn more about the Mansion. Historic tours are offered both in person and virtually. Learn about upcoming opportunities at highlandsranchmansion.com/calendar or by calling 303-791-0177.

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Protect your pets to minimize coyote conflicts

More than 42 miles of Metro District-owned parkway fence winds through the community along major two-, four-, and six-lane arterial roads in Highlands Ranch. Each year, sections of fence are identified for replacement in order to keep our arterial roads looking beautiful.

Additionally, Metro District staff perform annual maintenance including post repairs and staining.

During spring along the Front Range, it is not abnormal to see coyotes during the day. Our close proximity to wildlife makes it important to understand how to avoid conflicts with coyotes and keep your pets safe.

Approximately 28,000 feet of Metro District-owned fence, listed below, is scheduled to be replaced late this year and early next year.

Adjacent homeowners will be notified in advance.

2021 • Both sides of Venneford Ranch Road, from University Boulevard to Colorado Boulevard • Both sides of Colorado Boulevard north of University Boulevard • Both sides of S. Ranch Road • West side of Lucent Boulevard from Town Center Drive to Highlands Ranch Parkway

2022 • Both sides of Wildcat Reserve Parkway from Highlands Ranch Parkway to S. Broadway

Sign of great things

Coyotes pair up during the spring breeding season, den and typically give birth to pups in April. During this time, male coyotes will be spotted throughout the day on the hunt for food for their partner and pups. Small dogs and cats have the potential to be seen as a food source by coyotes, and larger dogs might be seen as a threat to a coyote’s territory.

What are the best ways to keep your pets safe? According to Colorado Parks & Wildlife make sure to:

Highlands Ranch Outdoors

Fence replacement enhances community parkways

• Always supervise your pet when outside.

• Keep pets on a short (6-foot) leash when walking.

• Never allow your pets to play with a coyote.

• Pick up small pets if confronted by a coyote.

• Do what you can to discourage a coyote’s approach – yell, stomp your feet, or throw small rocks or sticks at it.

• Don’t leave food or water outside for pets.

• Never leave cats or dogs outside after dark.

• If you must leave your pet outside, secure it in a fully enclosed kennel.

• Keep your pets up to date on vaccinations.

Find more information about preventing conflicts with coyotes and other wildlife at highlandsranch.org/OSIC.

During February, two new community monument signs were installed along C-470. The signs are located on the south side of the highway, with one east of S. Broadway and the other west of Colorado Boulevard. The new double-sided signs are 28 feet long and are easily visible from the highway to help identify our vibrant community.

Protecting open space by removing Russian-olive trees

Russian-olive trees can absorb as much as 75 gallons of water per day, can spread easily and can out-compete native species for nutrients and space. While Russian-olive trees were originally introduced to North America as an ornamental tree, their adaptability and invasive nature have landed them on the Colorado Noxious Weeds List.

How can you help?

• Educate your friends, family and colleagues. Sharing information about Russian-olives helps raise awareness and protect our waterways.

• Landscape responsibly and consider replacing Russian-olives in your yard with native species. One adult Russian-olive tree produces thousands of seeds a year, so the properties adjacent to the open space are a major factor contributing to this invasive species being reintroduced.

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Metro District staff is working to educate residents about the harmful nature of Russian-olive trees while also stopping their spread in Highlands Ranch open spaces and drainage areas. In partnership with the Mile High Flood District and Mile High Youth Corps, 550 Russian-olive trees will be removed from Metro District property in 2021.

Where appropriate, the Metro District forestry crew will replant peachleaf willow or cottonwood trees from Douglas County Conservation District in areas where Russian-olives have been removed. These two tree species are native to our area and are fast-growing. They also provide great habitat for wildlife. Reintroducing native species in these areas will help prevent erosion and lessen the chance of future outbreaks of Russian-olives.

Spring ‘21

If you knew the tree in your backyard was an invasive species that threatens our waterways, would you look at it the same way? Russianolive trees were not originally planted with bad intentions – however, we now know how harmful they can be to our local ecosystems in Colorado.

Youth Sports

Visit highlandsranch.org/signmeup to learn more details and register As the year moves forward, we will continuously evaluate each program and determine how to make it work safely under evolving health guidelines. If program cancellations are necessary, full refunds will be offered. For more information about program specific health measures, please call 303-791-2710 or email recreationinfo@highlandsranch.org.

Scholarships are available for youth recreation programs thanks to support from the Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Foundation.

R E CR E A TION GUID E

Y outh S ports

T-ball, Baseball & Softball

Rugby

Summer Youth T-ball, Baseball, & Girls Softball

Ages 5-17 Registration deadline: Monday, April 26 Tuesday, Thursday practices/ Saturday games May 4–June 26

Ages 4-14 (Age as of July 31, 2021)

Fee: Ranges from $87-$137 depending on age and league division.

Leagues run from May 17–July 31 Registration deadline: Wednesday, April 7 View all league details and full descriptions at highlandsranch.org/ baseballsoftball or call the recreation staff at 303-791-2710.

Lacrosse Introductory Lacrosse Programs

Weekday T-ball League

Ages 6-14

Fee: Resident: $75 Nonresident: $86 April 10, 17, 24 and May 1 10-11:30 a.m.

Marcy Park lower field Registration deadline: Friday, April 2

Ages 4-6 (Age as of July 31, 2021)

Choose a Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday league. June 2-July 15 Fee: Resident: $78 Nonresident: $90 Registration deadline: Friday, May 7 or until leagues are full

July 10, 17, 24 and 31 10-11:30 a.m.

Marcy Park lower field Registration deadline: Friday, July 2

Baseball & Softball Clinics

Mammoth Lacrosse Camp

Skills Clinic – Ages 6-14

Fee: $50

Wednesday, May 12

6-7:30 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse Camp

Fee: Resident: $40 Nonresident: $46 Baseball or softball Sunday, April 25

Fee: Resident: $110 Nonresident: $121 Registration deadline: Friday, June 11 9 a.m.-noon

Fee: Resident: $55 Nonresident: $63 Baseball or softball Sunday, April 25

9 a.m.-noon Redstone Park

Pitching Clinic – Ages 7-14

Grades K-9

June 14-18

The Metro District is proud to offer clinics in association with Diamond Club Training.

Registration deadline: Monday, April 19

Shea Stadium

1-3 p.m. Redstone Park

Baseball & Softball Clinics Ages 7-12

Pickleball

Fee: Resident: $120 Nonresident: $138 Registration deadline: Monday before camp starts June 28-30 or July 19-21 9 a.m.-noon Redstone Park

Ages 10-14

Fall Competitive Youth Baseball

Intro to Youth Pickleball – New Fee: $18 Registration deadline: Friday, June 4

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Spring ‘21

Thursday, June 10

3-4:30 p.m. Tanks Park

Disc Golf

Learn to Play Disc Golf – New Ages 8-12

Fee: Resident: $15 Nonresident: $18 Registration deadline: Friday before class begins Tuesday, May 4 9:30-11 a.m.

West Fork Disk Golf Course

Summer Sports Camps Ages 2-13

Please visit highlandsranch.org/signmeup for Skyhawks camps and SuperTots program .

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Team Registration Only

Ages 7-14

This is a competitive baseball league for above average to advanced players/teams only.

Team Fee: 7-8 year olds: $1,600 per team

9-14 year olds: $1,800 per team League begins Aug. 2. Call 303-791-2710 for details.

Registration deadline: Tuesday, July 20 Draft day for individual players will be held Sunday, July 25 at Redstone Park.

Umpire Training – Youth Baseball & Softball

Fee: $42 Classroom sessions: May 10 or 11 Onfield training (choose one): May 15 May 16

6-9 p.m.

5-7:30 p.m.

9-11:30 a.m.

Horseback Riding

All lessons are held at Stockton’s Plum Creek Stables, 7479 W. Titan Road.

Programs are available throughout the summer. For program descriptions and dates visit highlandsranch.org/horseback.

The registration deadline is one week prior to the class start date.

Shop Day Coming

A D U L T S ports

Saturday, May 15 Park Meadows Store

Save on all your baseball or softball needs throughout the store.

Golf Golf Lessons - Get Out and Play

Fall Preseason Flag Football Clinic

Bocce Ball

Flag Football Fall Youth Flag Football Leagues Fee: Resident: $112 Nonresident: $129 Registration deadline: Monday, July 26 Practices begin the week of Aug. 9. Games begin Sat., Aug. 21.

Programs will be held at Northridge Park, 8800 S. Broadway.

Ages 4-14

Fee: Resident: $30 Nonresident: $35 Registration deadline: Friday, Aug. 6 Saturday, Aug. 7 9 a.m.-noon Shea Stadium

Learn to Play

Fee: $18 Wednesday, June 16 6-7 p.m.

Registration deadline: Friday, June 11

Wednesday Mixed Leagues – League start time is 6 p.m.

Fee: $40 per person (Six weeks plus tournament) Registration deadline: Friday before the league begins Spring league begins Wednesday, April 14.

Summer league begins Wednesday, June 23.

Cheerleading Spirit Team Ages 4-14

Fee: Resident: $130 Nonresident: $150 Team Fee: $75 paid directly to Peak Athletics Uniform Fee*: $80 paid directly to Peak Athletics Practices are Fridays, Aug. 13-Oct. 16 Saturday games 6-7 p.m.

Peak Athletics, 399 Dad Clark Drive Registration deadline: Friday, July 30

Pickleball

Programs will be held at Tanks Park, 10371 S. Broadway.

Summer Learn to Play

Fee: $18 Registration deadline: Friday before class begins Thursday, June 10 5-6:30 p.m.

Skateboarding

Doubleheader Leagues

All lessons will be held at Redstone Skate Park.

Fee: $45 per person Registration deadline: Thursday, June 17 Beginner/Intermediate League (1.0-2.5) – League begins Wednesday, June 23 Intermediate/Advanced League (3.0+) – League begins Thursday, June 24

SkateStart Level 1 Ages 5-12

Required equipment: helmet and closed-toe shoes Fee: Resident: $50 Nonresident: $58 Registration deadline: Friday before class start date Monday, June 7 9-10:30 a.m.

Monday, July 12 9-10:30 a.m.

Summer & Fall Adult Softball

Ages 6-14

Please visit quickscores.com/hrmd for detailed information.

To register please go to highlandsranch.org/signmeup or contact Luke Ruter at 720-240-5912 or lruter@highlandsranch.org.

Summer leagues start the week of May 16. Fall leagues start the week of Aug. 22.

Registration deadlines: Summer: Thursday, May 6 Fall: Thursday, Aug. 12

Fee: Resident: $120 Nonresident: $138 Registration deadline: Friday before class start date June 8-10 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

July 13-15 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

CARA Youth Track

Kickball

Ages 5-16

WASA Coed Adult Kickball Leagues

Games will be played Thursday nights beginning April 22.

Registration began in late February at wasasports.com.

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Track

Spring ‘21

Adult Softball

SkateStart Skatecamp

Fee: Resident: $100 Nonresident: $115 Registration deadline: Monday, May 24 Starts June 1 Mondays & Wednesdays 9-10:30 a.m. or Tuesdays & Thursdays 6-7:30 p.m.

R E CR E A TION GUID E

Ages 4 to eighth grade

Classes will be held at The Links Golf Course, 5815 E. Gleneagles Village Parkway.

Fee: Resident: $175 Nonresident: $200 Space is limited to six per class.

Wednesdays, June 2-30 6:30-7:45 p.m.

Wednesdays, Aug. 4-25 6:15-7:30 p.m.

Youth & Adult Sports

for any of our programs.

Tennis Programs & Park Services

Lebsack Tennis Center is hosting all your favorite programs

9325 Foothills Canyon Blvd.

Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

303-791-2348

Team formation deadline: April 26.

a10 & Under Tennis (ages 4-10) aJunior Classes (ages 7-15) aJunior Development (ages 9-17) aAdult Drills & Clinics

Practices begin June 1.

Spring Session 1 March 29–April 22 Spring Session 2 May 3–May 27 Summer Session 1 June 9–July 15 For program details and court reservations, visit LebsackTennis.com.

R E CR E A TION GUID E

Instagram: lebsacktennis

Park shelter reservations

Celebrate at a Highlands Ranch park

Graduations Birthdays Family reunions Company picnics End of season parties How to reserve a park shelter Reservations are being accepted for 2021. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, customers are asked to request shelter reservations through one of three methods available: 1. Visit highlandsranch.org/reservations to submit an online request.

2. Email pmoisey@highlandsranch.org and provide your name, address, event date, event time, requested shelter location, type of event and expected attendance.

3. Call our reservation specialist, Pam Moisey at 720-240-5932.

• You can check availability calendars at highlandsranch.org/ reservations. All reservations require at least a two-hour minimum.

Spring ‘21

Messenger

Junior Team Tennis registration is now open.

• Make sure the park shelter you would like to reserve will accommodate the size of your group. An event of more than 100 people requires special permitting. All reservations will be subject to current public health orders and maximum shelter capacities.

• Please review park rules prior to making your park reservation.

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2021 fee schedule Shelters

Neighborhood park Community park Civic Green stage The Patio at Central Park

Resident Nonresident $18/hr. $30/hr. $50/hr. $50/hr.

$27/hr. $45/hr. $75/hr. $75/hr.

$16/hr.

$24/hr.

Bocce/Horseshoe Court $6/hr.

Pickleball Court $6/hr.

$8/hr.

Two-hour minimum

Sports Fields

Disc Golf Course

$9/hr.

(includes use of net/paddles)

Please call 720-240-5932 to inquire about applicable fees for tournaments and tag play.

Highlands Ranch Metro District Annual Benefit Golf Tournament Monday, Sept. 27 12:30 p.m. shotgun start University of Denver Golf Club at Highlands Ranch Registration is now open at highlandsranch.org/signmeup.

Proceeds benefit the Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Foundation. Foundation projects include youth sports scholarships and enhancing recreation programs and amenities.

Cost is $105 per player

The fountains at Civic Green Park to open in April The popular water features are a fun activity for people of all ages.

The overlook stream and fountain, which runs 24 hours a day, will be operating by Wednesday, April 21. The interactive plaza fountain in front of the pavilion will start to flow by Wednesday, May 12. The plaza fountain operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless turned off for a special event. Drought conditions may restrict operation of fountains.

Fixing leaks saves water and money The most effective way to save water and money around your home is to fix leaks. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average family can waste 180 gallons per week, or 9,400 gallons of water annually, from household leaks, and could be costing an extra 10% on your water bills.

That’s equivalent to the amount of water needed to wash more than 300 loads of laundry.

Water leaks inside and outside the home can occur at any time for a variety of reasons. Many are simple fixes such as a worn toilet flapper, loose pipe connection or showerhead with stray spray. Other leaks, such as a running toilet or broken sprinklers, may require a plumber or a landscape irrigation system professional.

Centennial Water & Sanitation District, the water and wastewater provider serving Highlands Ranch, is responsible for repairing leaks on public water mains. Homeowners are responsible for leaks inside their home, the service line and sprinkler system.

There are three easy steps you can take to start checking for leaks.

1. Check your water bill. How much water did you use during your last billing cycle? The average home in Highlands Ranch uses 4,000 gallons per month during winter months. If you exceeded that, it may be an indication you have a leak. You can also look for spikes in water use.

Drought conditions create need to be water wise Water is essential for the life we love. In addition to basics like drinking water and agriculture, it also fuels our recreation, businesses, and many vital industries. In a semi-arid state like Colorado, it’s particularly important for each of us to play our part, however small, in conserving such an important resource.

Monitor drought conditions at droughtmonitor. unl.edu.

Centennial Water & Sanitation District, the water and wastewater provider in Highlands Ranch, partners with Resource Central to offer free Slow the Flow sprinkler consultations. The consultation will help reduce your water waste by providing a customized watering schedule to help water your lawn more efficiently. You could save up to 5,000 gallons of water per year while still keeping your lawn healthy, just by adjusting your sprinkler system.

Green Highlands Ranch

The Green Page

The consultations will take place beginning June 14. By signing up today your name will be added to a list to be among the first to schedule a consultation. You will be contacted in late May to schedule an appointment. Resource Central technicians will wear a mask and will maintain at least six feet of social distancing during the consultation. They will also sanitize your control clock before using it and after they are done.

To register for a Slow the Flow consultation, visit resourcecentral.org/ slowtheflow/sprinklers or call 303-999-3824.

Water waste makes my hair stand up.

2. Read your water meter. Take a reading during a period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same after a two-hour period, there is probably a leak.

3. Check your toilet. Conduct a dye test in each toilet in your household. Put a few drops of food coloring into the tank at the back of the toilet. After 10 minutes, look in the toilet bowl. If color shows up in the bowl, you have a leak.

For more tips and information, subscribe to Centennial Water’s monthly eNewsletter by sending an email to info@highlandsranch.org.

Water pressure refers to the force water exerts on the inside of pipes and is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI).

Water pressure in Highlands Ranch can range from 45 to 150 PSI. If your water pressure is below 70 PSI and you don’t have a pressure reducing valve (PRV), you are in an area of the water system where a PRV is not needed.

The recommended maximum water pressure inside your home is 70 PSI, especially if the home has a water softener or a sprinkler system.

Rain sensor rebate - Install a rain sensor and you may be eligible for a rebate of up to $25.

Turf replacement - Convert water-thirsty turf grass, such as Kentucky Bluegrass, into a water wise landscape. A rebate of $1 per square foot ($1,000 maximum), is available for the removal of any high-water-use turf grass and replacement with Xeric or drought tolerant vegetation.

High-efficiency nozzles - Replace less efficient, traditional fixed spray nozzles with more efficient rotary nozzles. A rebate of $1 per nozzle is available. The non-residential maximum is $3,000. Installation costs, sales tax, and shipping and handling costs are not covered.

Incentive programs are evaluated by Centennial Water staff to ensure cost effectiveness for both Centennial Water and its customers.

For more information about the programs above, contact 720-240-4918 or info@highlandsranch.org.

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High water pressure can result in leaks, pipe damage and wasted water. High water pressure can be controlled by a PRV installed prior to the water meter. PRVs are usually located in a basement or crawl space.

Centennial Water & Sanitation District offers incentive programs to help customers become more water efficient with outdoor irrigation practices. As spring approaches and we get the bug to get our hands dirty, think about what can be done to cut back on outdoor water use. Water savings will also help put more money back in your wallet.

Spring ‘21

Pro tips for pressure reducing valves

Water savings = $ savings

S P R I N G 2021

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PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

Highlands Ranch Metro District

Paid

HIGHLANDS

RANCH

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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

If you see irrigation leaks or water flowing into streets in Highlands Ranch, please call 720-240-4918.

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Metro District Residential Customer

A Publication Providing Information for: Recreation Programs • Youth & Adult Sports • Parks & Open Space Projects • Local Government Updates

See adult sports on Page 9

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) at the John D. Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Drive. Board study sessions are held the Wednesday prior to board meetings at 6 p.m. at the same location.

Visit highlandsranch.org and click on the Government link for a meeting schedule and COVID-19 related details. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom and the public is encouraged to attend virtually.

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. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom.

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Youth recreation scholarships available

Interested in participating in our youth recreation programs? For Highlands Ranch kids and families experiencing financial challenges, recreation scholarships are available through the generous support of the Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Foundation. Learn more at highlandsranch.org/scholarships.

Scholarship requests may be submitted any time during the year, but must be received at least two weeks prior to the start of the recreation program.

Follow the Metro District & Centennial Water on social media

Stay up to date on local news and information by connecting with the Metro District on social media. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Vaccine appointment resources

Centennial Water provides water and money-saving updates on Facebook.

Learn more about Centennial Water job opportunities on LinkedIn.

Staff at the Tri-County Health Department (TCHD) COVID-19 call center, at 303-220-9200, are available to answer COVID-19 vaccine questions. TCHD staff also assist people with signing up for vaccine waitlists. Find COVID-19 vaccine information at tchd.org/COVID19.