by Heather Brecl | Oct 20, 2025 | Main Articles
After months of grassroots pressure, Cherry Creek North neighbors stop Denver City Hall’s and Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer’s attempt to create a new tax district — and set a new standard for local government accountability.
by Heather Prochnow Brecl
Signage: Grassroots campaign signage became a unifying symbol across Cherry Creek North, as residents rallied under the “Stop the GID Tax in CCN” movement to oppose the proposed district.
Map: A City of Denver map showing the Cherry Creek Statistical Neighborhood and proposed General Improvement District (GID) boundaries. The highlighted areas include the existing Business Improvement District (BID), Cherry Creek North and East Neighborhood Associations, and the “Triangle Study Area” south of 1st Avenue.
Enraged Citizens: Neighbors packed the Bromwell Elementary School meeting hall in September to demand answers about the proposed Cherry Creek North GID. Jamie Geillis responded to agitated attendees declaring that the City will no longer pursue the GID in Cherry Creek.
Bitter Defeat: Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer attacked her constituents following the defeat of the Cherry Creek North GID accusing them of “vitriol” and “intentional sharing of misinformation.”
Cherry Creek North residents have done what few neighborhoods manage to achieve — they held their local government accountable and won.
After months of organizing, petitioning, and pushing for answers, homeowners successfully defeated the City of Denver’s plan to form a General Improvement District (GID) — a proposal that would have imposed a new property tax on the neighborhood in the name of “enhancement projects.”
For now, the GID is officially off the table.
“Citizens will participate — but they expect honesty,” said Dana Busch, Cherry Creek North Resident.
Grassroots Unity Turned The Tide
What began as confusion over a postcard survey evolved into one of the most effective neighborhood movements Denver has seen in years.
After an initial article exposed flaws in the process, residents launched www.StopTheGIDinCCN.com to inform their community, share documents, track meetings, and mobilize volunteers.
Soon, yard signs lined every block, and door-to-door canvassing gathered more than 1,500 signatures opposing the tax. Standing-room-only meetings at Bromwell Elementary School drew hundreds of concerned neighbors demanding transparency.
Local media coverage followed, amplifying the message that the community was united, engaged, and watching closely.
September Showdown: Residents Demand Answers
The movement’s momentum peaked in two pivotal September meetings.
On September 9, residents dissected the GID’s legal structure, boundaries, and funding mechanisms — revealing that the City’s survey lacked residency verification and never disclosed that proposed projects would be funded through a permanent property tax.
At the September 16 meeting, Jamie Giellis, representing Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer’s office, addressed an agitated crowd and formally conceded that Cherry Creek North would be removed from consideration for the proposed GID. Giellis acknowledged the overwhelming opposition and confirmed that the City would not move forward with the plan in this area.
Councilwoman Sawyer’s
Formal Concession
The following day, September 17, 2025, Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer issued a formal statement confirming the decision:
“Last night officially ended the exploration and engagement effort to form a GID for the Cherry Creek North neighborhood,” Sawyer wrote.
“While we always welcome open dialogue and encourage all voices to be heard, it has been discouraging to see how misinformation and divisive rhetoric overshadowed what was intended to be a constructive community conversation.”
Her letter closed by noting that the City would continue to explore similar districts in other parts of the Cherry Creek study area — a tone that, to many residents, underscored the problem: City officials were still deflecting responsibility rather than acknowledging missteps in communication and transparency.
Why Residents Were Outraged
At the center of the conflict was what neighbors called a “weaponized survey.”
The City’s online questionnaire invited feedback on amenities such as lighting, landscaping, and safety patrols — but never asked the most basic question: Do you want a new tax to pay for these things?
Because anyone could take the survey — even those living outside the proposed district — residents questioned its legitimacy. Many felt it was designed to create a false narrative of support rather than
Cherry Cricket: The Cherry Cricket, a Cherry Creek North institution since 1945, sits near the heart of the area once targeted for the proposed GID — an emblem of the neighborhood’s mix of tradition, independence, and local pride.
collect meaningful feedback.
“This was about standing up when government oversteps,” added Busch.
Neighborhood Association:
“It’s Time To Heal”
Following the decision, the Cherry Creek North Neighborhood Association (CCNNA) issued a statement:
“The General Improvement District discussions are OVER; there will be no GID in the Cherry Creek area. A GID is simply a tool to address issues that residents want to fund. Currently, the majority of residents don’t feel that the scale of the problems warrants establishment of a GID in CCN.
The issues surrounding the GID formation discussions were complicated and led to deep wounds in our neighborhood that we would like to help heal.”
That healing, residents say, begins with rebuilding trust — not only within Cherry Creek North, but also between the neighborhood and City Hall.
A Broader Call For Reform
The defeat of the GID represents more than a neighborhood victory — it’s a lesson in civic accountability.
Residents are now calling for reforms in how Denver initiates and communicates potential improvement districts, including verified surveys, full financial transparency, and clear disclosures before any tax proposal moves forward.
The experience also raised broader questions about how public officials interpret “engagement.” For many in Cherry Creek North, the City’s version of outreach felt more like persuasion than participation.
“Government should never forget that it serves the people — not the other way around,” said Busch.
The Larger Lesson:
Power In Participation
The Cherry Creek North movement has become a model for how citizens can challenge opaque government processes through persistence and collaboration.
Their campaign — built on open dialogue, data gathering, and neighbor-to-neighbor engagement — proved that local democracy still works when residents get involved. The fight connected neighbors who had never met, empowered volunteers to learn city policy, and reminded everyone that complex bureaucratic actions can be stopped through collective action.
Now, neighbors are discussing next steps — how to stay engaged, promote transparency, and ensure future proposals begin with genuine community input.
The Legacy Of The Movement
What began as opposition to a single proposal has reshaped Cherry Creek North’s civic identity. The neighborhood discovered its collective strength and proved that engaged citizens can stop bad policy in its tracks. The newly bonded community of residents plans to stay engaged and stay strong in their resolve to protect the neighborhood they love.
While Denver leaders may revisit similar proposals elsewhere, residents of Cherry Creek North have established a precedent: informed, organized communities can — and will — demand accountability.
The GID is gone, but its legacy endures — a reminder that transparency, consent, and communication are the cornerstones of good governance.
Tree-lined Street: Tree-lined streets and architecturally distinctive homes define Cherry Creek North — a neighborhood where residents take deep pride in preserving the character and quality of the place they call home.
by Valley Gadfly | Oct 20, 2025 | Main Articles
November, December Create Sales Buzz; Holiday Decorations Add Appeal For Buyers
by Glen Richardson
Is a new house for the holidays on your wish list?
Lowry Living: Stylish community of green spaces offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility.
Belcaro Beauty: Belcaro is known for its curvy, leafy streets dotted with classic bungalows and stately mansions.
Winter Wonderland: Homes on the market this time of year attract serious buyers and often result in quicker sales.
Cherry Creek Charm: Beyond central district condos, the surrounding area has homes in a variety of sizes and styles.
This time every year, homeowners who want to sell their home have a decision to make, sell now, or wait until after the holidays. Sellers often take homes off the market until the new year. Nonetheless, many buyers want to purchase a home for the holidays. Buyers are motivated to close deals quickly, whether due to job relocations, family changes, or the desire to settle into a new home before the year ends.
Fact is, the desire to own a home doesn’t stop during the holidays. Furthermore, homes decorated for the holidays appeal to many buyers. Of the 329,578 occupied housing units in Denver, 49.1% are owner-occupied, while 50.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.
Quicker Sales
Anyone shopping for a new home between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is likely to be a serious buyer. Upshot: Homes on the market this time of year attract serious buyers and result in quicker sales.
Sellers are also often motivated to close deals quickly due to job relocations, family changes, or they’ve already purchased a new home.
The overall median home price in metro Denver sits at around $599,000 according to the Denver Metro Association of Realtors. Detached single-family homes are averaging between $650,00 and $666,000. Prices for condos and townhomes average between $390,000 and $400,000.
Open House Timing
Cooling from pandemic peaks, prices are down 3% to 5% from the highs of 2022. Due to inventory growth, more homes are on the market, giving buyers more options. Well-priced homes still sell quickly, but buyers have more negotiating power than in past years.
Plan holiday open houses early in the season, from late November to early December. That’s late enough in the year to take advantage of festive decorations, plus early enough not to be squashed by holiday social schedules.
Albeit prices are still high, recent softening means buyers have better opportunities. That’s particularly true in the condo and townhouse market. Negotiating for seller concessions is becoming more common. Nevertheless, homes that are priced competitively and marketed well are still moving. Overpricing can lead to longer time on the market, especially in the attached home segment.
Year-End Tax Gains
Closing on a home before the end of the year can create valuable tax benefits. New homeowners may be eligible to deduct mortgage interest, property taxes, and loan origination fees when filing taxes. These deductions can significantly reduce taxable income and may lead to a better refund or lower tax bill. By buying in December, buyers also position themselves to take advantage of any local or federal tax incentives that might be expiring at year-end, making the purchase even more financially beneficial.
Just as sellers are motivated to close before the new year, lenders often push to meet their year-end goals as well. This can work to the advantage of a buyer as some lenders may offer competitive rates, special promotions, or reduced fees in December.
Additionally, with fewer loan applications compared to the spring and summer rush, lenders often provide more personalized service and faster processing times. Pre-approval is still essential, but buyers can expect a smoother financing process during the quieter holiday time.
Variety Of Choices
Even though fewer homes may be listed in November-December, Denver’s real estate market remains active. Buyers can still find a variety of properties available, from modern condos downtown to family-friendly homes in the suburbs. The key is to work closely with a real estate agent to identify new listings and hidden gems that buyers may be looking for.
Additionally, properties that didn’t sell during the fall might still be on the market, with sellers becoming more motivated as the year comes to an end. This creates opportunities to find a home that aligns with preferences and budget.
Closing on a home during the holidays means buyers will be settled in the new home and ready to start the new year fresh. Moving during the winter may sound challenging, but with the right planning, it can be a smooth experience. Plus, moving companies are often less busy, meaning potentially better availability and lower rates. With the move complete before January, buyers will have a chance to enjoy their new home and start the year on the right foot.
District Price Trends
Belcaro Beauty: Belcaro is known for its curvy, leafy streets dotted with classic bungalows and stately mansions.
In August 2025, Cherry Creek North home prices were down 53.2% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $2.8 million. On average, homes in Cherry Creek North sell after 49 days on the market compared to 10 days a year ago. There were six homes sold in August this year, up from five last year.
In August 2025, Washington Park home prices were up 46.2% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $1.95 million. On average, homes in Washington Park are selling after 38 days on the market compared to 24 days last year. There were 45 homes sold in August this year, down from 49 last year.
In August 2025, Belcaro home prices were up 6.5% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $1.4 million. On average, homes in Belcaro sell after 26 days on the market compared to 27 days last year. There were 37 homes sold in August this year, up from 30 last year.
In August 2025, Lowry home prices were up 4.0% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $586,000. On average, homes in Lowry sell after 33 days on the market compared to 20 days last year. There were 46 homes sold in August this year, down from 60 last year.
by Mark Smiley | Oct 20, 2025 | Main Articles
Food Banks, Pantries, Soup Kitchens Need Volunteers, Donors To Help Feed Denver’s Hungry
by Glen Richardson
Turkey Trot: United Way’s Thanksgiving four-mile walk-run is Nov. 27 at Wash Park.
Kid-Friendly: Most Mile High groups needing Thanksgiving help are kid friendly.
Dessert Rescue: Denver Rescue Mission server is all smiles as she serves dessert to Denver homeless.
Banking On Boxes: Many food banks provide free food boxes allowing receivers to make their own meal.
Angel’s Deliver: Project Angel Heart needs 400 volunteers to help deliver on Nov. 26.
As Thanksgiving approaches this month, we eagerly anticipate the warmth of family gatherings, and the smell of a delicious Thanksgiving meal.
As you look forward to the food holiday, however, remember there are many in metro Denver worrying about where their next meal will come from. The greatest challenge on this special day for the head of many households is being able to afford food to feed their families.
Amid food price inflation, and a 10% increase in Denver metro area homelessness, food banks, food pantries, soup kitchens, and faith groups are calling on volunteers and donors to help feed the community this holiday season.
Joy Of Serving
These holiday food providers help to make Thanksgiving and the holiday season in Denver a time of joy and togetherness.
A free turkey may be provided in a Thanksgiving food box, or families may also get a gift card to use to buy a turkey from a grocery store.
Many food banks have a schedule of Thanksgiving food distribution on their website. Individuals and families can also call to ask about hours, and any requirements. Some require signing up early for a Thanksgiving basket or meal.
Lunch, Dinner Options
Some food pantries and soup kitchens also serve a free Thanksgiving lunch or dinner. They may serve this meal on Thanksgiving, the day before Thanksgiving, or the day after. Some locations may provide meals to-go rather than dine-in.
Denver Rescue Mission partners with the Denver Metro community to provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need. Boxes are distributed at Empower Field at Mile High, home of the Denver Broncos, every year on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving.
Check Websites
Many food banks have a schedule of Thanksgiving food distribution on their website. Individuals and families can also call to ask about hours, and any requirements. Some require signing up early for a Thanksgiving basket or meal.
Many food banks provide free baskets or boxes with food to allow individuals and families to make their own Thanksgiving meal. These boxes include a turkey, and sides like cranberries, gravy, and vegetables. Boxes are often available at drive-thru pantries or contact-less pickup can be scheduled.
Food Banks
Food banks act as a grocery store of sorts for community partners and are responsible for ensuring that partners have the resources they need to feed those seeking help. A food pantry is an independent community site that distributes food and other products directly to those facing hunger.
Food Bank of the Rockies, located on East 45th Ave., is Denver’s largest food bank. “There are many ways to volunteer, and every bit helps us help others,” the organization says. As volunteers, all you have to do is show up, adding that they provide the training, a safe environment, and “communal fun.” Information: 303-371-9250.
Located on Pecos St., Bienvenidos Food Bank provides emergency and supplemental food assistance for individuals and families “in a safe, welcoming place.”
Through partnerships with grocery stores and other food providers they say they are able to turn every $1 cash donation into more than $9 worth of food, including fresh meat and produce. Information: 303-433-6328.
Food Pantries
Jewish Family Services on S. Tamarac Drive operates the Weinberg Food Pantry through collaboration with Food Bank of the Rockies. They provide all the ingredients for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Families and individuals, however, must register for the program.
They receive a large box of Thanksgiving food including a turkey, potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy, pumpkin pie supplies, plus milk and eggs. Donations of nonperishable food items are needed. Information: 202-597-5000.
Denver Food Rescue on York Street says volunteers are at the heart on everything they do. From redistribution of fresh food across Denver to supporting community-led grocery programs, and keeping their work organized, there are volunteer opportunities for everyone. There is a Denver Food Rescue Volunteer Form on their website. Information: 720-510-9139.
Fast Paced, Fun
Denver Inner City Parish on Mariposa St. has a weekly in-person pantry serving up to 160 people, plus five mobile pantries operating throughout metro Denver. Anyone can come to one of their pantries, no ID is required. The pantry is open for donations on Mon.-Tue., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fri. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Information: 303-629-0636.
Metro Caring Fresh Foods Market-Food Pantry on E. 18th Ave. says volunteers work side-by-side in a fast-paced and fun environment. Their Fresh Foods Market is a free grocery store stocked with produce, meats, dairy, and pantry staples. They say they need you, your friends, or your team from work to volunteer. 303-860-7200
Boulder-based Colorado Pet Pantry allows pet owners to feed and protect their furry family members They distribute about 100,000 lbs. of food to pet owners each month. They need donations of adult dog and cat kibble, plus canned dog food. There is a donation drop off list on their website. They have a pet food bank at Bienvenidos Food Bank. Information: 303-818-0618.
by Jessica Hughes | Oct 20, 2025 | Glendale City News
Photo taken by Jessica Hughes with Mountain Light Photography Denver City Council approved the Vibrant Denver bond package and will appear on the November ballot.
The Vibrant Denver Bond addresses infrastructure needs to some of the city’s most iconic places such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Photo taken by Jessica Hughes with Mountain Light Photography
by Jessica Hughes
In November, Denver voters will be able to vote on the $950 million “Vibrant Denver” bond package that was recently approved unanimously by the Denver City Council.
Mayor Mike Johnston’s ambitious bond is the largest bond ever put forward in the city’s history and proposes “to repair and improve Denver’s infrastructure and community space — including roads, bridges, parks, playgrounds, recreation centers, and libraries.”
This comes on the heels of several recent moves to improve Denver’s downtown, including the 16th Street Mall Project, which celebrated its completion this summer, as well as rejected city improvements, such as Governor Polis’s $29 million pedestrian bridge project. At the same time, Trump threatens to decrease federal funding for some programs, the city also faces massive budget cuts worth $250 million, which recently included firing nearly 170 employees and eliminating hundreds of vacant positions. But when you add all of this up, can the city really afford nearly $1 billion in debt?
Johnston says the bond would be fully funded from property tax income, without adding any new taxes. “The Vibrant Denver bond package allows us to come together to decide our priorities for our neighborhoods and families,” said Mayor Johnston. “This bond will help us build the Denver of the future, without raising taxes, while also ensuring the protection and preservation of critical infrastructure already in place. It will also allow us to control our own destiny by creating a local funding source for needed local projects.”
According to the City of Denver, they “set general obligation (GO) bond programs intentionally every 4-10 years so that as previous bonds are paid down, new bonds can be issued without new taxes — allowing the city to keep pace with infrastructure improvements.”
Th
The Vibrant Denver Bond is the largest bond ever proposed in the city’s history. Photo taken by Jessica Hughes with Mountain Light Photography
e mayor’s office said each of the approximately 60 projects can be completed over the next six years within the city’s existing bond capacity, since previous bond programs are almost complete. According to the city’s 2024 comprehensive financial report, the city has about $1 billion in existing debt from previous bond packages voters approved, including the Elevate Denver, a 10-year, $937 million general obligation bond program approved by voters in 2017, and RISE Denver, a five-year, $260 million general obligation bond program approved by voters in 2021.
“In North Denver over the past several years, we’ve seen improvements to recreation centers, parks, fire stations, libraries, playgrounds, and less noticeable but equally important infrastructure like irrigation, street repairs, and bridges. Almost all the infrastructure we rely on daily is built or maintained through our bond programs — critical investments that do not raise taxes but create lasting, tangible benefits for our communities,” said City Council President Amanda P. Sandoval. “General Obligation Bonds allow us to build and maintain the spaces that define our city, ensuring Denver’s legacy of strong, community-driven infrastructure continues for generations to come. The 2017 GO Bond included funding for pedestrian safety improvements along Federal Boulevard, an issue I advocated for, to make one of our city’s busiest corridors safer for everyone. I look forward to working with residents to shape our next bond program and invest in the future of our neighborhoods.”
But before Denverites vote no to avoid adding more debt, it’s important to note the city can only use property tax revenue to fund GO bonds and pay off bond debt. If Vibrant Denver isn’t approved, the city will have a surplus of property tax revenue in the coming years, since it’s on schedule to pay off its current debt, and bonds cannot be used to pay for any operational costs like staffing or services, only for the construction of public infrastructure and facilities. Ultimately, the city would be left with a surplus of money that they couldn’t use for any other cause. So, while it may seem like bad timing, the City of Denver is keeping up the pace of regularly scheduled bond issuance and maintenance.
Each of the bond projects is categorized into five separate sections, which voters will be able to approve or reject. Nearly half of the funding will be allocated toward transportation and mobility, including streets, bridges, and traffic safety improvements. Here is a snapshot of the five categories voters will get to vote on, with the top few most expensive projects within each category.
Transportation and Mobility —
the largest category by far at $441 million
- 8th Avenue Viaduct & Multimodal Improvements | $89,200,000 — The most expensive item on the ballot at almost $90 million is the repairs to the 8th Avenue bridge near Burnham Yard. Despite the City of Denver’s claims that repairs are long overdue, it seems coincidental with the recent rumors of the new home of the Denver Broncos stadium.
- Globeville Elyria-Swansea Connections: Marion Underpass | $75,000,000 — this plan completes the final connection linking Globeville to Elyria and Swansea. It also provides Globeville direct access to the RTD N Line station and several other structural improvements.
- 6th Avenue Viaduct Repairs & Mobility & Access Improvements | $50,000,000 — This project addresses one of the busiest roads in Denver, 6th Avenue, by completing the critical structural repairs, additional access points and a complete re-design for the future replacement of the bridge.
City Facilities
- First Responder & Public Safety Training Center | $75,000,000 — This project would combine the sheriff, fire, and police training needs into one facility to provide greater efficiencies in training recruits, expand the number of trained public safety personnel, and bring training resources up to competitive standards.
- Red Rocks Backstage Expansion and Accessibility Improvements | $35,100,000 — The backstage renovation and expansion would address ADA accessibility (which has been a hindrance to growth for Red Rocks in recent years), additional parking, as well as facility improvements backstage.
Parks and Recreation
- Park Hill Park Buildout | $70,000,000 — After the city announced, earlier this year, its plans to acquire the former Park Hill Golf Course, it comes as no surprise that there is a proposal to build out the park’s new facilities. The plans include steps to ready the park with proper irrigation, landscape, walkways, and parking lots.
- Southeast Recreation Center & Skate Park | $20,000,000 — Money for this project would support acquisition ONLY for the SE Skate Park Hub, which would provide access to skateboarding, roller-skating, etc., to the existing DPR Sports Complex. Development of the recreation center would require additional funding.
Housing and Sheltering
- Affordable Housing Project Development | $45,000,000 — Money for this project allows the city to invest in land, buildings, and/or site preparation to provide affordable housing and to mitigate displacement.
Health and Human Services
- Denver Health Sam Sandos Westside Family Health Center Replacement | $20,000,000 — If approved, the money would support construction of a new clinic in the Westside neighborhood that will increase access to healthcare for the people of Denver. This comes as the Big Beautiful Bill is set to slash healthcare funding in Colorado. The bond is only expected to provide funding for a portion of the entire project.
For more about what’s included in the Vibrant Denver bond, visit Denvergov.org
