PCD Meeting Minutes
November 9, 2021; 7 - 9 pm
Upcoming City Initiatives
The City of Denver has six Initiatives coming up (or already underway) that may affect the Highland Neighborhood.
1. Expanding Housing Affordability. This is an attempt to make affordable housing possible for all Denverites across all income levels. The link below will get you to the city’s website where you will find a 2-page summary of the initiative and a 28 page in-depth study and list of proposals.
A subcommittee of PCD will look at the proposals more closely to bring back more detail to PCD for discussion at future meetings. https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Community-Planning-and-Development/Denver-Zoning-Code/Text-Amendments/Affordable-Housing-Project
2. Advanced Equity in Rezoning. This fall, city planners will work with community members to review Denver's process for rezoning properties and recommend potential updates. The year-long project will focus on implementing city goals around equity, as stated in Blueprint Denver, Denver's citywide land use and transportation plan. The city is looking for 15-25 volunteer participants to share the work and learn about rezoning, with equity as the focus. https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Community-Planning-and-Development/Denver-Zoning-Code/Text-Amendments/Advancing-Equity-in-Rezoning
3. ADUs in Denver. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are being allowed in more neighborhoods as time goes on. The city website provides a summary of ADUs and is a great place to catch up on what they are and their place in creating affordable housing. The city wants to evaluate changes to ADU regulations to make it easier and more predictable to build them. https://www.denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Community-Planning-and-Development/Denver-Zoning-Code/Text-Amendments/ADUs-in-Denver#section-2
4. Near Northwest Neighborhood Planning Initiative (NPI) The NPI process is continuing. For the next few weeks, the planning team will be reviewing the input received through the online survey, the virtual community kickoff event from this summer and the various conversations from other events in the area. The NPI committee will use this input to identify themes and opportunities, and to develop a preliminary vision for Chaffee Park, Sunnyside, Highland and Jefferson Park. It’s actually still early in the process, you can still be involved, so PLEASE share your thoughts about our community, here: https://us.openforms.com/Form/199ede3e-7272-4f8f-adb4-16ee51c80561
The NPI city website: www.Denvergov.org/NearNorthwestPlan
5. Landmark Design Guidelines Update (next meeting at 6:00 pm 11/17/21) Starting this fall, Landmark Preservation is working with the community and the Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) to update the Design Guidelines for Denver Landmark Structures and Districts(PDF, 18MB). Last updated in 2016, these guidelines help owners of individual landmarks and properties in historic districts (like Potter Highlands) make improvements to their properties while protecting the historic, architectural, or cultural features of the neighborhood. Due to evolving needs and the desire for greater flexibility, Landmark staff and the LPC recognize that the design guidelines are in need of a comprehensive update. See below and get involved: Landmark Preservation Design Guidelines Update - City and County of Denver (denvergov.org)
6. Redistricting Denver 2022 Every 10 years after the release of the U.S. Census data, Denver City Council is required to redraw its city council boundaries to ensure every person has an equal voice. Denver City Council will make the 2022 redistricting process inclusive and accessible to all residents of Denver and is encouraging residents to participate throughout the process. Our very own District 1 Councilwoman Amanda Sandoval is chairperson of this committee. See what she’ll be doing! Redistricting Denver 2022 - City and County of Denver (denvergov.org)
Next Meeting: December 14, 7 - 9 pm
