In December, Denver faced the unexpected challenge of providing shelter and resources for an influx of migrants from Central and South America.
Community Issues
NE Denver Forum: Creating Safer Communities
What does it mean to create a safe neighborhood? How can youth violence be prevented? How can school shootings be stopped? These were among the many complex issues discussed at the November 16 neighborhood forum sponsored by Central Park United Neighbors and Front Porch.
Thanksgiving “Madness”
It’s become an annual November tradition: Tajahi Cooke, known as Chef Taj, and his team cook thousands of meals to deliver to people in need. He calls it “Madsgiving”—since there’s a little madness in undertaking such a project.
Key 2022 Ballot Measure Results
In November, Denver residents cast their votes on many ballot measures. Here are the results of some of the key city and state initiatives.
Denver Discovery School Avoids Closure Amid Struggles
In late October, DPS released a list of ten small schools recommended for closing—and DDS was on the list. Later the list was cut in half—and DDS was still there. At the last minute, Superintendent Marrero surprised the board by recommending that just two schools be closed—and DDS was one of those.
Denver’s Successful STAR Program a Model for Rep. Crow’s Mental Health Bill
United States Congressman Jason Crow is the co-sponsor of a bill that would prevent law enforcement officers from needing to respond to calls involving mental health crises. The bill, which was passed by the House, would provide local governments with grants to form mental health units, instead of police, to respond to certain 911 calls.
Safer Neighborhoods Forum
Panelists include Denver District Attorney Beth McCann, State Representatives Jennifer Bacon and Steven Woodrow, Denver Youth Violence Prevention Program Manager Felicia Rodriguez, Together Colorado’s Vickie Wilhite, Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas, and District 5 Lt. Kevin Hines. To submit a question to the panelists, go to the ‘Ask Front Porch” tab at the top of the page.
Auto Theft and Car Crimes Soar in NE Denver
Over the past three years, the rates of car crimes committed in Denver have skyrocketed and include vandalism, catalytic converter removal, gasoline siphoning, and vehicle theft. Although these problems are impacting the entire city, car crimes have been especially prevalent in Northeast Denver neighborhoods.
Guns to Garden Tools
Denver residents who no longer want guns in their homes previously had few options to discard their weapons.
Will More Police Reduce Rising Crime Rates?
Local crime data for 2022 offers a view of the patterns occurring in our neighborhoods, and DPD Chief Paul Pazen explains how the shortage is impacting these trends.
The High Court’s Controversial Rulings: A Legal View
As the impacts of climate change are increasing, a recent Supreme Court ruling means the EPA can no longer require power plants to reduce carbon emissions. While mass shootings and gun violence are on the rise, the Bruen ruling makes it more difficult for states and municipalities to implement local gun control policies. And for the first time in U.S. history, the Supreme Court took away an existing right.
How Will Roe’s Reversal Affect Colorado Women and Healthcare Clinics?
Since the U.S. Supreme Court Dobbs decision in July reversed Roe v. Wade after 50 years of legal abortions nationwide, Colorado remains among the 24 states with laws protecting reproductive rights.