The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory from 11 a.m. Friday, June 20, to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 21. Please take precautions, stay hydrated and check on neighbors who may need help. Below are helpful tips and resources from Aurora’s Homelessness Services Division, the Aurora Animal Shelter, Arapahoe County Public Health, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and Xcel Energy. 

Emergency Cooling Centers  

During days when the temperature reaches 99 degrees or higher, the city activates cooling centers for the public to hydrate and escape the heat: 

• Aurora Day Resource Center 
  13387 E. 19th Place 
  Open 24/7 daily. Staff from Advance will be available during peak hours to provide resource assistance. 

Select Aurora Public Library locations (activated Friday and Saturday, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday): 

• Central Library – 14949 E. Alameda Parkway 
• Chambers Plaza Library – 1551 Chambers Road 
• Hoffman Library – 1298 Peoria St. 
• Martin Luther King Jr. Library – 9898 E. Colfax Ave.

Protect your pets from the heat

City ordinance requires all pets to have adequate shelter and access to food and water. Here are some key tips to protect your pets during extreme heat: 

• Never leave pets in parked vehicles, even with the windows cracked. 
• Provide fresh, cool water daily in a stable, tip-proof bowl. 
• Limit outdoor activity—exercise pets early in the morning or late evening when it’s cooler. 
• Take breaks in the shade and bring water while walking pets. 
• Bring pets indoors during extreme heat. 
• Read other tips 

Neglecting these precautions can result in cruelty charges, fines or in some cases confiscation of the animal. To report animal mistreatment, call: 

• 303.326.8288 (option 6) – available daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 
• 303.627.3100 – Police non-emergency dispatch (after hours) 

For additional pet tips and shelter news, follow the Aurora Animal Shelter on Facebook and/or Instagram at @auroracoanimalshelter or visit AuroraAnimalShelter.org. 

Protect your health in extreme heat 

Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke can be life-threatening. These conditions occur when the body overheats faster than it can cool down. Follow these tips from Arapahoe County Public Heath and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to stay safe.   

Summer Energy Tips 

Xcel Energy provides tips on how to reduce your energy usage and stay comfortable during hot weather. For additional information, visit co.my.xcelenergy.com/s/residential.  

Ditch your vehicle, grab your bike and take part in Bike to Work Day, which is happening Wednesday, June 25.

Bike to Work Day is presented by Way to Go—a program of the Denver Regional Council of Governments. Register now at BikeToWorkDay.co to be entered into a drawing for an e-bike, among other prizes.

The city is participating this year by hosting a breakfast station on the High Line Canal near the trail underpass on the west side of Chambers Road, just northeast of the Aurora Municipal Center. Stop by on your bike for a free beverage and breakfast burrito (sponsored by Bicycle Aurora) from 6:45 to 9 a.m.

Also in Aurora, breakfast stations will be available from 6 to 9 a.m. on the Anschutz Medical Campus in front of the Fitzsimons Building on the grass oval; from 6:30 to 9 a.m. at Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., hosted by Northeast Transportation Connections; from 7 to 9 a.m. at Parker and Dam roads, hosted by Ready to Work; and from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Epic Mountain Gear, 2650 S. Havana St.

Whether you are working in the office, working in the field, working remotely or just running errands that day, make June 25 the day when you take two wheels instead of four. Combining the ride with public transit or parking your car closer to work and biking the rest of the way makes participation even easier.

For more information, visit BikeToWorkDay.co.

Residents are invited to attend one of three family friendly community events this summer to talk with the Build Up Aurora Infrastructure Task Force about infrastructure needs related to public safety, transportation, parks, libraries, recreation, accessibility and more in Aurora.

Enjoy snacks, giveaways and family friendly activities at the following events:

-Saturday, June 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Town Center at Aurora, 14200 E. Alameda Ave. (Lower-level Center Court)

-Saturday, June 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Southeast Recreation Center and Fieldhouse, 25400 E. Alexander Drive

-Saturday, July 12, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Winged Melody Park at The Aurora Highlands, corner of North Main Street and East 38th Place

Safe, adequate and well-maintained infrastructure is essential to the city’s economic health and impacts every resident’s quality of life. Aurora’s population has grown nearly 40% in the last 20 years, compounding the city’s infrastructure needs.

The city has entered the next phase in the Build Up Aurora effort to address more than $700 million in unmet critical capital projects required to maintain existing city infrastructure and provide for our growing community’s immediate and future needs.

Launched this year, the Build Up Aurora Infrastructure Task Force is looking at long-term solutions for city infrastructure projects, and it is seeking the community’s input and support. In addition to hosting these community events, the task force team is visiting local events and community and neighborhood meetings to talk with residents and gather feedback.

Residents are invited to take a short survey through Aug. 31 at EngageAurora.org/BuildUpAurora, where additional information on Build Up Aurora may be found.

Aurora’s Housing and Community Development Division invites residents to share their input on housing needs as it prepares the Five-Year Consolidated Plan for 2025–2029. This plan will guide how Aurora invests federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support low- to moderate-income households and enhance quality of life citywide.  

Aurora residents are encouraged to complete a survey, which is available in English and Spanish. The survey is open through Monday, June 30, and can be accessed online at EngageAurora.org/ConPlan or in person at any Aurora Public Library or city recreation center.  

A public hearing will also be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Aurora Room, to provide in-person input.  

The consolidated plan will focus on key areas that impact Aurora's quality of life, including: 

• Affordable housing 
• Homelessness prevention and support services 
• Community development and neighborhood improvements 
• Fair housing and equal access to housing opportunities 

A draft of the plan will be available at EngageAurora.org/ConPlan starting July 13, 2025, followed by a 30-day public comment period.  

A second public hearing will take place for final input from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Aurora Room. 

The city has partnered with Root Policy Research to lead data collection and analysis. For questions on this project, contact Root Policy at [email protected] or 970.880.1415.  

To learn more about this project, visit EngageAurora.org/ConPlan.  

African clothing, handicrafts from the Marshall Islands, Indian, Filipino and Panamanian cuisine and a musical tribute to Tejano music legend Selena; all that and much more is coming to the 12^th annual Global Fest, the city of Aurora’s signature event sponsored by Colorado Access.

The free, family-friendly event returns to the city with a new date in 2025; from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 14, on the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway. In past years, Global Fest was held in August.

This unique multicultural festival highlights the many flavors, sights and sounds that make Aurora special, celebrating many of the cultures and communities that call Aurora home. Offerings include roughly 20 food trucks and booths combining to bring cuisines from around the world, more than 60 vendors, including toy makers and clothing artisans, the popular Parade of Nations, an international fashion show and two stages of live performances including dance, music and martial arts demonstrations.

"Global Fest is Aurora's signature event for a reason. It celebrates so much of the international food, art and culture that makes the city a special place. I encourage everyone to join us on June 14," Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman said. 

This year’s festivities will include bounce structures and inflatable soccer skills challenges for kids. There will also be a special tribute to the legacy of Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla-Perez. Aurora resident Mayra Alejandra and her band will be performing the music of Selena. Their concert will follow an all-ages Selena look-alike contest. The competition, sponsored by Amigos de Mexico, will include multiple age categories and prizes for top finishers.

Between the Aurora Stage and One World Stage, Global Fest will host more than two dozen unique performances this year representing cultures from five continents.

“Every year we seek the community’s feedback to make Global Fest even better than the year before,” said Ricardo Gambetta, Aurora’s manager of International and Immigrant Affairs. “We can’t wait for people to join us for another unique version of our signature celebration. This is a chance to explore the world right here in our city.”

In addition to Access Colorado, Global Fest 2025 is sponsored by Donor Alliance, Alpine Bank, LTC, UC Health, Embassy of Nepal and CBS Colorado.

For more information including an event schedule, map and details about parking and accessible shuttles to the event, visit AuroraGlobalFest.org. 

The city’s Build Up Aurora Infrastructure Task Force has launched a survey at EngageAurora.org/BuildUpAurora to find out what infrastructure projects—like public safety, parks, transportation, accessibility and more—matter most to residents.

The task force is seeking the community’s input and support as it explores ways to address unmet critical capital projects required to maintain existing city infrastructure and provide for our growing community’s immediate and future needs.

Safe, adequate and well-maintained infrastructure is essential for the city’s economic health and impacts Aurora’s quality of life.

Build Up Aurora started in 2023 with the city addressing a top priority of residents—transportation and roadways—by improving the condition of Aurora’s residential streets in the worst condition. That work will continue annually.

Representatives with the infrastructure task force also will be available to talk with residents and gather feedback at the first-ever Engage Aurora Live! event happening from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.

The 5-minute survey is available through Aug. 31. Find out more and take the survey at EngageAurora.org/BuildUpAurora.

Legislative officials, state and local lawmakers and transportation planners, and transportation safety advocates gathered at the Aurora Municipal Center Monday for the first-ever National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Safety Summit to talk about transportation safety issues in Colorado.

NTSB Vice Chairman Alvin Brown joined Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, Aurora Council Member Stephanie Hancock, representatives from U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper’s office, Congressman Jason Crow’s office and the Colorado Department of Transportation, along with Arapahoe, Adams and Douglas counties, and Bicycle Colorado, for the discussion.

“I was honored to be part of such an important conversation,” said NTSB Vice Chairman Alvin Brown. “At the NTSB, our mission is clear—to prevent crashes and save lives through action, identified in our safety recommendations, and through a commitment to reach zero road fatalities. There is no reason that over 40,000 lives should be lost each year on our roads. These tragedies are preventable, and we are committed to making our roads safer for every traveler. We must act now, because every life saved is a is a step closer to a safer future.”

Discussion at the summit focused on bringing awareness to the state’s transportation safety challenges, work that is being done to implement road safety strategies across disciplines and levels of government, and highlighting the NTSB’s open safety recommendations related to potential state laws for backseat seatbelts and motorcycle helmets.

“I am grateful to Vice Chairman Brown for bringing this safety summit to Aurora, and for the work that the NTSB is doing to improve transportation safety outcomes throughout our state and nation,” Mayor Coffman said. “There is a lot of work happening at all levels of government, including the city of Aurora, to plan strategically and develop solutions for a safer transportation future for everyone in every community.”

The city wants everyone who travels in Aurora to review the proposed visionary transportation networks (streets, transit, sidewalks and bikeways) developed as part of the Connecting Aurora citywide multimodal transportation master plan.

The deadline for review has been extended to Friday, May 2, to allow more people to look at the maps online, drop pins on the maps and make comments about what they like and what they would change, along with taking a 5-minute survey on project priorities.

Visit EngageAurora.org/ConnectingAurora to access the link for the maps and survey, and review general information about the project. Anyone who participates in this Milestone 3 engagement effort will be entered into a drawing for a Target gift card.

Connecting Aurora will help identify and prioritize future transportation improvement projects throughout Aurora. Developing such a massive and impactful plan is not possible without help from our community. To date, thousands of community members have provided input throughout the course of the project. Find out more at EngageAurora.org/ConnectingAurora.

A new study—Colfax BRT Next—is exploring ways to improve public transit along Colfax Avenue east of the RTD R Line's Colfax Station at Interstate 225. The project is separate from but complementary to the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit project that will run from downtown Denver to Interstate 225.

Bus rapid transit is an efficient bus service that incorporates elements of light rail such as enhanced stations, all-door boarding, purchasing tickets before riding and, in some cases, dedicated bus lanes.

Community input is important to the Colfax BRT Next study. Community members are asked to take a few minutes to complete the community survey at Engage.DRCOG.org/ColfaxNext or in person at the city of Aurora’s Engage Aurora Live! event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.

The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is funding and managing the Colfax BRT Next study, in partnership with the city of Aurora, Arapahoe and Adams counties, the Regional Transportation District (RTD) and the Colorado Department of Transportation.

The study will identify future bus rapid transit options serving East Colfax Avenue between the RTD R Line’s Colfax Station at I-225 and Picadilly/E-470. It will include a locally preferred alternative for advancing BRT and a pathway for securing funding to develop and implement the project. 

This corridor is part of DRCOG’s 2050 Regional Transportation Plan BRT Network and among five BRT corridors slated for implementation by 2030.

The Colfax BRT Next study is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2025. For more information, visit Engage.DRCOG.org/ColfaxNext.

From Monday, April 21, through Thursday, April 24—overnight daily from 6 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.—I-70 travel lanes near Colfax Avenue will be reduced and shifted to one side of the highway as part of the I-70 Picadilly Interchange Project. 

These lane closures and travel changes are required for crews to erect bridge girders and perform additional bridge work for the future diverging diamond interchange.

Motorists will still be able to travel in each direction during this work; however, lanes will be reduced and shifted onto either the eastbound or westbound side of I-70. 

Traffic Impacts:

• Monday, April 21, and Wednesday, April 23, overnight from 6 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.: Eastbound I-70 will be reduced to one lane and shifted to the westbound side of I-70. Two lanes will remain open on westbound I-70. 
 
• Tuesday, April 22, and Thursday, April 24, overnight from 6 p.m. to 5:30 a.m.: Westbound I-70 will be reduced to one lane and shifted to the eastbound side of I-70. Two lanes will remain open on eastbound I-70. 
These temporary traffic patterns are necessary for crews to safely install girders as part of the construction of a diverging diamond interchange at I-70 and Picadilly Road. Please note that construction activities are weather dependent and subject to change, which may impact the closure schedule and duration.

Please use caution and be patient when driving through the work zone. Follow posted speed limits and allow extra time to reach your destination.

Information on future closures and traffic impacts will be provided in the coming weeks as crews move on to constructing the bridge deck for the new interchange. 

To learn more about the project and sign up for weekly updates, please visit AuroraGov.org/I70Picadilly.

ABOUT THE I-70 PICADILLY INTERCHANGE PROJECT
With significant residential, commercial and industrial growth along the I-70 corridor, new measures are essential to enhance connectivity. The I-70 Picadilly Interchange Project will minimize out-of-direction travel for area residents and businesses. The diverging diamond interchange (DDI) design features enhanced safety measures including advanced signaling systems and improved lighting that reduce risks to drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists. The new bicycle and pedestrian path through the DDI will also provide safe and accessible infrastructure for the northeast Denver metro area and will improve the safety and quality of life for non-motorized users.

The city of Aurora is accepting applications now through April 25 for one vacant seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Once the application period closes, the City Council will determine candidates to interview. The term of the vacant seat started in January, and once appointed, the prospective new commissioner will serve through Dec. 31, 2027.

The commission provides recommendations to the Aurora City Council on zoning and a wide range of planning- and development-related issues. Members also review site plans and use approvals, unless appealed to the City Council.

Members must be registered electors and residents of Aurora for at least one year immediately preceding the date of their appointment. No member shall hold paid office or position in the city administration. If any member ceases to be an Aurora resident, membership will terminate immediately. The term of service is three years.

To apply for the commission, call the City Clerk’s Office at 303.739.7094 or visit AuroraGov.org/Boards. 

The commission usually meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

The city of Aurora is accepting nominations from the community through April 30 for its annual Aurora Business Recognition Awards Program, which began in 2005 to celebrate successful businesses that are leaders in the workplace and community.

The program recognizes not only the economic vitality that businesses of all sizes and types bring to Aurora, but also the support these businesses provide to their employees and broader community. Award winners will be honored in mid-2025, with specific details to be shared later.

Nominees will be evaluated by one or more of the following criteria: resiliency, innovation and creativity; service industry and hospitality; “small, small” businesses with great customer service; and culture and community.

To complete a nomination form and find out more information, visit AuroraGov.org/BusinessAwards. The deadline to submit a nomination is April 30.

Nominees must be licensed in the city of Aurora and registered with the state of Colorado.

For questions, contact Ashvina Patel at 720.515.6391 or [email protected].

The city of Aurora is offering special event pricing for electronics recycling for residents (no business customers) from March 31 to April 11.

The city’s electronics recycling event is happening at Pedal Point LifeCycle Solutions (formerly Techno Rescue)—the city’s e-cycling partner. The facility at 3251 Lewiston St., Suite 10, will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Most electronic items—desktop computers, laptops, cell phones, tablets, gaming equipment, consumer electronics and similar—are accepted. Each carload is $5, along with LCD monitors and floor model printers. Cash or debit/credit card is preferred as payment.

To address the rising costs associated with processing select electronics, the following additional fees will be applied to recycle these items:
• Flat screen TV (LCD/LED; all sizes): $10 each
• CRT monitors/CRT TVs (all sizes): $20 each
• Console, projection or DLP TVs: $40 each

A complete list of items that are not accepted is available at AuroraGov.org/Recycle (go to Electronics Recycling).

Pedal Point LifeCycle Solutions, which is certified for electronics recycling and data destruction, wipes and physically destroys all data storage media to protect the identities of those who are recycling responsibly.

Additional dates for regular special event pricing have been scheduled for 2025 (closed on Sundays): July 7 to 18 and Oct. 6 to 17.

As a reminder, electronics tossed in the trash not only cause serious environmental problems but also are banned from landfills in Colorado. Environment Aurora, a citywide effort to think green, supports the city of Aurora’s electronics recycling events. For more information, visit AuroraGov.org/Recycle. 

Aurora is truly “The World in a City” and that global influence is reflected in our food, with 440 authentic, specialty restaurants and markets, dozens of food trucks and countless other small cuisine businesses to explore. This year, the exciting competition Global Flavors is back to find the best global foods in the city.

Food providers in Aurora are invited to nominate a globally inspired dish, drink or dessert of their choosing through Sunday, March 30. In May, the public will have the opportunity to visit participating businesses, purchase and taste the featured items and vote for their favorites. The top three places will be recognized at Global Fest and featured on AuroraTV and the city’s social media platforms.

“As an extension of Global Fest, Global Flavors is a creative initiative that seeks to actively support and involve the local business community in this global celebration, showcase the diversity of food across Aurora, and unite people through food," said Ricardo Gambetta, manager of the Office of International and Immigrant Affairs. “Last year, the top three places were owned by members of the immigrant community, which was a perfect opportunity to recognize our diverse population's economic and cultural contributions as acknowledged in the city's Immigrant Integration Plan; we encourage all local food providers to be part of Global Flavors 2025."

In order to participate in the competition, businesses must be based in Aurora and be licensed by the city of Aurora to sell food; be in good standing with all their respective regulatory agencies; and feature a globally inspired drink, dish or dessert. A maximum of one application per category is allowed for a total of three different items per participating business. Nominations are currently being accepted and can be submitted at AuroraGov.org/GlobalFlavors.

Global Fest is able to feature the international cuisines of select local establishments, but no single event can capture the broad diversity of Aurora’s food scene, so Global Flavors is intended to expand upon those offerings to showcase more great restaurants from across the city. Last year, the top three places were SweetPepper Kitchen with their Jollof Rice, HoneyBee Asian Bistro & Sushi with their signature Flaming Tiger Roll and Ladydee's Authentic Nigerian Cuisine’s Heritage Red Beef Stew. Stories featuring the top three places are available at AuroraTV.org.

Global Fest, the city’s signature event, is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 14, on the Aurora Municipal Center Great Lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway.

Learn more about Global Flavors and Global Fest at AuroraGlobalFest.org.

The city of Aurora’s Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Department is seeking to hire dedicated lifeguards for all indoor and outdoor pools.

This is an excellent opportunity for people looking for additional income over the summer or to start a professional career. Lifeguards perform routine tasks to maintain the safety and cleanliness of swimming pools, provide patron information and respond to emergencies.

PROS is hosting lifeguard hiring events at pools to provide more information, application assistance and on-site interviews; conditional offers will be made during event days.

• Tuesday, March 11, noon to 2 p.m., Central Recreation Center, 18150 E. Vassar Place

• Thursday, March 13, noon to 2 p.m., Moorhead Recreation Center, 2390 Havana St.

• Tuesday, March 18, noon to 2 p.m., Southeast Recreation Center, 25400 E. Alexander Drive

• Thursday, March 20, noon to 2 p.m., Utah Indoor Pool, 1800 S. Peoria St.

Lifeguards will receive additional benefits such as free access to Aurora’s recreation centers, free equipment and uniforms, flexible schedules and career advancement opportunities. Pay starts at $17.50 an hour.

The minimum qualifications for this exciting position include being 15 years or older, maintaining a safe environment at the worksite, knowledge of pool safety and emergency action plans, and life-saving techniques and emergency response skills. Free training, licenses and certificates will be provided as part of the onboarding process, including lifeguard training, standard first aid and CPR certification and emergency oxygen certification.

For additional information, please visit AuroraGov.org/LifeguardHiring.

The city of Aurora invites you to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary volunteers, organizations and businesses that make Aurora a vibrant and welcoming place to call home. The Community Spirit Awards honor those who exemplify leadership, dedication to volunteerism and meaningful involvement in Aurora. Awards are presented across the following categories:

• City of Aurora Programs Volunteer
• City of Aurora Programs Youth Volunteer
• Community Volunteer
• Youth Community Volunteer
• Community Nonprofit Organization
• Service Member Veteran Volunteer
• Community Business Partner
• City of Aurora Employee Volunteer

Recipients are selected by the Aurora Volunteer Committee, composed of city employees, based on the impact of their community service. Please note that multiple individuals or organizations may be recognized in each category, and nominations are evaluated on merit, not quantity of submissions.

Visit AuroraGov.org/CommunitySpiritAwards to learn more and to submit a nomination form by 5 p.m. Monday, June 30. Email [email protected] with questions.

The new executive director for the Aurora-South Metro Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a former small business owner with more than a decade of strategic leadership in business development and community-focused initiatives.

Ashvina Patel, who most recently served as the business development manager at Academic Impressions, will take on her new role Jan. 27 to oversee the programming and services available to small businesses and entrepreneurs in Aurora as well as Arapahoe and Douglas counties.

“I’m thrilled to lead the Aurora SBDC team during a time when nearly half of Colorado’s workforce is employed by small businesses, the backbone of our community,” Patel said. “I’m committed to helping these businesses grow and thrive while ensuring budding entrepreneurs from all backgrounds have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed in Aurora.”

Patel is a dynamic leader with deep ties to the city of Aurora. She serves as chair of the Aurora Immigrant and Refugee Commission, where she is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and economic growth for Aurora’s diverse communities. Raised by entrepreneurs and a former restaurant owner, Patel has also served in both research and strategic planning roles in her career and holds a doctorate in anthropology from Southern Methodist University. She is passionate about driving impactful programs, supporting small businesses and leveraging her expertise to empower local entrepreneurs and create lasting economic vitality.

Patel was hired through a joint recruitment effort between the city of Aurora, which is the host of the Aurora-South Metro SBDC, and the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network.

“Ms. Patel has the passion and skills to further the success of the Aurora-South Metro SBDC team,” said Jeannine Rustad, director of the city’s Planning and Business Development Department. “She has an excellent knowledge about the Aurora community and is committed to this city and the work ahead. We look forward to our continued partnership with the SBDC under leadership.”

The Aurora-South Metro SBDC, which is part of the Colorado SBDC Network, is dedicated to assisting small businesses achieve their goals of growth, management improvement and financial success, providing one-on-one consulting, business training and small business resources.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ashvina to the SBDC Network as the new director for the Aurora-South Metro SBDC,” said Hannah K Krieger, state director of the Colorado SBDC Network. “She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, along with a deep commitment to serving the community. Her leadership will be instrumental in building on the center’s incredible achievements and serving small business owners across the region.”

For more information on the Aurora-South Metro SBDC, visit Aurora-SouthMetroSBDC.com or call 303.326.8686.

If you love making a positive impact on air quality, then register now to participate in Way to Go’s annual Winter Bike to Work Day—this year on Valentine’s Day, Friday, Feb. 14.

The city of Aurora joins the Denver Regional Council of Governments and other metro-area municipalities in participating again in this annual winter event that asks participants to commit to traveling by bike on that day, whether to work, run an errand, or spend time with friends.

To participate in Winter Bike to Work Day and earn a chance to win prizes, visit BikeToWorkDay.co and pledge to ride.

Stop by our breakfast station from 6:45 to 9 a.m. along the Highline Canal underpass just west of Chambers Road and get a free coffee and breakfast burrito (sponsored by Bicycle Aurora). While at the station—located northeast of the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway—learn the latest news about Aurora’s new citywide multimodal transportation master planning effort, Connecting Aurora.

Additional stations in Aurora may be found at BikeToWorkDay.co.

A bicycle maintenance station is available on the west side of the Aurora Municipal Center (AMC) for anyone needing quick repairs, and bike racks are available on both sides of the AMC building.

Remember to don a warm pair of gloves, a headband or light winter hat under your bike helmet, and layers to stay warm. Avoid mishaps when snow and ice are present by slowing down and always maintaining an upright position.

Those who telework also may participate in Winter Bike to Work Day by swapping a car trip anywhere that day for a bike ride.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook through Monday, Jan. 20, bringing an arctic airmass with bitterly cold air to Colorado beginning Saturday and lasting through Monday night. Below are some tips from Aurora's Homelessness Services, Aurora Animal Shelter, Aurora Water, Aurora Fire Rescue and Xcel Energy. Please take care, be prepared and check on neighbors who may need assistance. 

Shelter/transportation services 

Aurora Day Resource Center 

Effective Jan. 17, the Aurora Day Resource Center, located at 13387 E. 19th Place, will no longer serve as an overnight cold-weather shelter. However, daily transportation to overnight shelters will be provided from this location between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. throughout the winter season. 

Please note that cold-weather activations will no longer be announced, as transportation services will be available every day during the winter months. 

Individuals will be transported back to the Aurora Day Resource Center the following morning between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. 

Questions? Call the Aurora Day Resource Center at 303.343.7808 

Aurora Cold Weather Outreach Team (ACOT) 

The Aurora Cold Weather Outreach Team (ACOT) will be activated Friday, Jan. 17, through Monday, Jan. 20, to support individuals experiencing homelessness during extreme cold. ACOT is mobilized on nights when temperatures drop to 20 degrees or below or when precipitation and cold weather combine, typically below 40 degrees. 

This vital effort is a collaboration among the Aurora Police Department, Aurora Fire Rescue, street outreach staff, and mental health professionals. The team visits encampments to connect with individuals, encouraging them to seek shelter and offering resources and transportation to ensure their safety during cold weather. 

For additional information, visit AuroraGov.org/Homelessness. 

Protecting pets from the cold 

According to city ordinance, all pets must have adequate protection from the weather and have access to food and water. The following safety tips apply to dogs and cats: 

• Limit the time pets stay outdoors during freezing temperatures. 
• A poorly insulated shelter may not provide the warmth needed to keep a pet safe when temperatures dip below freezing. Pets exposed to harsh weather conditions for an extended period of time can result in hypothermia, frostbite or even death. Further, water available to them is likely to freeze. 
• If you decide to walk your dog, do so midday when it is typically the warmest. Walks should be short to limit their exposure to the cold. Dogs with shorter fur coats, small dogs and senior pets can easily feel the effects of the cold. Providing your dog with a coat, sweater or booties can be beneficial in keeping them warm. Booties can also protect their paws from harsh chemicals used for deicing. Please consider using pet safe salt for snow melt. 

Being neglectful to a pet's needs can result in a cruelty charge, a hefty fine and in some cases confiscation of the animal. If you believe a pet is being mistreated, please contact our Animal Protection Officers at 303.326.8288, option 6, available daily, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For after-hours reports, please contact police non-emergency dispatch at 303.627.3100. 

For additional pet tips visit visit AuroraAnimalShelter.org or follow the shelter on Facebook and Instagram at @AuroraCoAnimalShelter. 

Protecting your pipes 

Here are some tips from Aurora Water to help you protect your plumbing during sub-zero temperatures.  

• Leave cabinet doors open in your bathrooms and kitchen to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing. Don't forget to move household chemicals and cleaners out of the reach of kids and pets. 
• If you have an older home or business with pipes prone to freezing, allow cold water to drip from your faucets. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing. 
• Ensure all hoses are disconnected from outside spigots. 
• If you plan to be out of town, keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Otherwise, it may get cold enough to freeze pipes anywhere in the home or business. 
• Make sure there are no air gaps on the outside walls where air can blow on the pipes, especially in your basement. 
• Locate your master water shutoff so you can turn off your water where it comes into your home or business if a leak or break occurs. 

If you believe your pipes are frozen, the quickest solution is to call a plumber to have your pipes checked. For more information on preventing or thawing frozen pipes, or for help locating your water meter or master shutoff, call Aurora Water’s Customer Service line at 303.326.8645. 

Find additional resources at AuroraGov.org/HomeOwnersResources.

Fire safety information

According to the National Fire Protection Association, home structure fires are more likely to occur during winter months. But the vast majority of residential fires are preventable. Here are a few safety tips to prevent fire and injury in your home during cold weather periods.

• Install and test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
• Space heater safety:
  • Place space heaters on a flat surface so a pet or someone won’t accidentally knock it over.
  • Never leave space heaters unattended.
  • Keep a 3-foot safe zone around the space heater.
  • Keep anything flammable away, such as blankets and curtains.
• Fireplace safety:
  • Clean and inspect your chimney annually to prevent buildup and ensure structural integrity.
  • Make sure the damper is open and that the fireplace is properly ventilated.
  • Keep flammable materials like curtains, blankets and paper products at least 3 feet away.
  • Use a metal mesh screen or glass doors to prevent embers from escaping and protect people and pets from burns and injuries.
• Kitchen safety:
  • Never leave anything on the stove unattended.
  • Never use an oven as a heat source.
  • Keep oven mitts, towels and paper towels away from any heat source, such as a stovetop, toaster oven, etc.
  • Especially if you’re cooking with grease or high heat, keep a lid or cookie sheet nearby to cover the pan if there’s a fire.
  • Don’t wear loose clothing and roll up your sleeves.
  • Turn handles to pots and pans inward so they don’t get bumped or pulled by a small child and potentially cause severe burns.

What to do if a power outage occurs?  

If you experience a power outage, please report it to or text “Out” to 98936. If your power does go out, there are some steps to take: 

• Keep windows and doors shut and use towels to plug any gaps that may let in outside air. 
• Turn faucets on to a trickle to prevent pipes from freezing. 
• Check on neighbors who are older or disabled and may need assistance. 
• Plan ahead to have batteries and alternative power sources available to meet your needs when the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Never run a generator indoors. 
• Have flashlights for every household member. 

Learn other tips at xcelenergy.com. 

Due to the winter weather events that occurred recently, the city of Aurora has extended its extra special event pricing for electronics recycling for residents (no business customers) through Jan. 17 to kick off 2025.

Electronics will continue to be accepted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, Jan. 13 to 17 at Techno Rescue—the city’s e-cycling partner—located at 3251 Lewiston St., Suite 10.

Most electronic items—desktop computers, laptops, cell phones, tablets, gaming equipment, consumer electronics and similar—are accepted. Each carload is free, along with LCD monitors and floor model printers. Cash or debit/credit card is preferred as payment.

To address the rising costs associated with processing select electronics, the following additional fees will be applied to recycle these items:
• Flat screen TV (LCD/LED; all sizes): $10 each
• CRT monitors/CRT TVs (all sizes): $20 each
• Console, projection or DLP TVs: $40 each
• Certified data destruction with certificate: $5 per hard drive/data-containing device

A complete list of items that are not accepted is available at AuroraGov.org/Recycle (go to Electronics Recycling).

Techno Rescue, which is certified for electronics recycling and data destruction, wipes and physically destroys all data storage media to protect the identities of those who are recycling responsibly.

Additional dates for regular special event pricing have been scheduled for 2025 (closed on Saturdays): March 31 to April 11, July 7 to 18, and Oct. 6 to 17.

As a reminder, electronics tossed in the trash not only cause serious environmental problems, but also are banned from landfills in Colorado. Environment Aurora, a citywide effort to think green, supports the city of Aurora’s electronics recycling events. For more information, visit AuroraGov.org/Recycle.  

The Aurora City Council on Monday voted to approve the appointment of Amsalu Kassaw to fill the council seat vacated following the resignation of At-large Council Member Dustin Zvonek.

Kassaw, who works at the Geo Group, Inc., describes himself as a community organizer, human rights advocator and public servant from Aurora. According to his application for the position, he applied to help Aurora residents and gain a better understanding of the issues to solve resident concerns wisely.

A recipient of the 2024 Aurora Community Spirit Award for the Community Volunteer category, Kassaw also has earned the 2023 Leadership Service Unifying Achievement Award on International Diplomacy and the Ethiopian American Community Service Award.

Kassaw will complete the remainder of the term, which ends the first council meeting in December 2025. He will be sworn in Jan. 13 during the regular council meeting.

During the November 2025 Regular Municipal Election, registered electors will vote into office a new at-large council member to complete the next full term.

Also on Monday at their regular council meeting, the City Council voted to appoint Ward II City Council Member Steve Sundberg as mayor pro tem for 2025.

The city of Aurora is accepting applications for three upcoming vacancies on the Aurora Civil Service Commission.

The term is ending Feb. 14 for three commission members, and the Aurora City Council will start the process of filling those seats in mid-January. Applications will be accepted until those seats are filled.

The commission’s purpose is to provide Aurora residents with the most qualified applicants for, and promotion to, firefighter and police officer positions, irrespective of the applicant's race, creed, color, gender, age, national origin, or religious or political opinions or affiliations. Additionally, its purpose is to inspire public confidence in the Civil Service System and to afford uniformed members an opportunity for employment and promotion within uniformed positions of the fire and police departments.

The Civil Service Commission operates independently of city staff under City Charter authority, establishing rules and regulations regarding the hiring process for cadet, entry-level and lateral police and fire candidates; oversees promotional appointments; and conducts civil service disciplinary review hearings.

A member must be an Aurora resident and registered voter prior to appointment. A member also may not hold any other position in the city for which he or she receives a per diem or salary or be an appointed member of any other city board or commission.

The board, which has up to five members, usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. Commissioners serve three-year terms.

The City Council will interview candidates and make the appointments in February.

To apply for the Civil Service Commission, go to AuroraGov.org/Boards.

The city of Aurora is continuing to work on its first-ever citywide multimodal transportation master plan and is accepting community input for Milestone 2 of Connecting Aurora.

The city wants to hear your thoughts about imagined transportation futures, and there are three remaining ways to get involved:

- Provide feedback online through Dec. 22 at EngageAurora.org/ConnectingAurora. Participants in the online survey can enter into a drawing for a $25 Target or King Soopers gift card.

- Talk online with the project team directly at a Wednesday, Dec. 4, virtual live town hall on Zoom at cutt.ly/VirtualTownHall from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Anyone who attends and stays until the end will be entered into a drawing for a Target gift card that night.

- Join us in person for dinner and a roundtable discussion from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, Aurora Room. Please RSVP at EngageAurora.org/ConnectingAurora to let us know you are coming so that we can plan for enough food. Spanish interpretation will be available at the roundtable discussion.

Follow us on social media or contact us at 720.984.2109 or [email protected] anytime to offer input.

Connecting Aurora will identify projects, policies, standards and programs to make the city’s transportation systems safer, more comfortable, and more convenient and reliable for everyone. The input gathered during this milestone will evaluate how different transportation and land use scenarios can best meet Connecting Aurora’s goals and help shape the project priorities.

The city is continuing its development of the Connecting Aurora multimodal transportation master plan. The community is invited to provide feedback this fall on how different transportation and land use scenarios can best meet Connecting Aurora’s goals.

Three open houses in November and a virtual town hall in December will take place to gather public input on these scenarios and help shape the project priorities. A food truck will provide a meal and refreshments on a first-come, first-served basis. Community members need only attend one, and may show up anytime during the two-hour timeframe:

Open House No. 1
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Crawford Elementary School, 1600 Florence St.

Open House No. 2 (Canceled due to weather-related after-school programming closure)
Thursday, Nov. 7, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Jewell Elementary School, 14601 E. Jewell Ave.

Open House No. 3
Thursday, Nov. 14, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Aurora Highlands P-8, 24405 E. 42nd Ave.

Virtual Live Town Hall
Wednesday, Dec. 4, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Zoom meeting link: cutt.ly/VirtualTownHall

Connecting Aurora is the city’s first-ever multimodal transportation master plan. It will identify projects, policies, standards and programs to make the city’s transportation systems safer, more comfortable, and more convenient and reliable for everyone.

The community is an integral part of this long-range planning process. Feedback gathered already this year has helped the project team understand the community’s transportation needs and priorities, and provide guidance on developing different future scenarios for the public’s consideration this fall.

For those who cannot attend an open house or the virtual live town hall, feedback opportunities will be available at EngageAurora.org/ConnectingAurora starting Nov. 6.

Visit EngageAurora.org/ConnectingAurora to learn more about the project and sign up for project updates. To ask questions, email [email protected] or call 720.984.2109.

The city will provide Spanish interpretation at the open houses. To request other language interpretation, email [email protected] at least five days in advance of a scheduled open house.

The city of Aurora is in the early phases of design of a project that will improve pedestrian access in three locations along Havana Street and Yale Avenue.

Thanks to the residents who attended our Oct. 22 Havana and Yale Multimodal Access Improvements Project Open House and provided feedback.

There is still time to offer input online through a survey and comments on our roll plots. Please visit EngageAurora.org/HavanaYaleAccess to review and comment on the designs by Nov. 11

The project will fill in gaps in the sidewalk network, widen substandard sidewalks and improve multimodal access. Project improvements on Havana Street include implementing some recommendations from the 2023 Havana Street Corridor Study.

The targeted locations are Havana Street from Montview Boulevard to East 13th Avenue, Havana Street from East Fourth Way to just north of East First Avenue, and East Yale Avenue from South Peoria Street to South Xanadu Way.

These locations were selected for this project since they are heavily used transit-oriented corridors where the need for safe and convenient pedestrian and bicycle access to transit facilities is critical.

Visit AuroraGov.org/MissingSidewalks for additional information.

The Aurora City Council on Monday supported the consideration to reappoint two Planning and Zoning Commission members whose current terms are ending Dec. 31.

The city of Aurora will continue to accept applications through Nov. 22 for one remaining seat with a term ending Dec. 31. The City Council will determine candidates to interview by Dec. 2, with interviews taking place during the Dec. 16 council study session. The new commissioner will be appointed in January.

The outgoing commissioners may reapply to be reappointed, which may impact the current schedule based on any City Council decision to reappoint.

The commission provides recommendations to the Aurora City Council on zoning and a wide range of planning- and development-related issues. Members also review site plans and use approvals unless appealed to the City Council.

Members must be registered electors and residents of Aurora for at least one year immediately preceding the date of their appointment. No member shall hold paid office or position in the city administration. If any member ceases to be an Aurora resident, membership will terminate immediately. The term of service is three years.

To apply for the commission, call the City Clerk’s Office at 303.739.7094 or visit AuroraGov.org/Boards. 

The commission usually meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

The city of Aurora is offering special event pricing for electronics recycling for residents (no business customers) from Oct. 14 to 19 and Oct. 21 to 25.

The city’s electronics recycling event is happening at Techno Rescue—the city’s e-cycling partner. The facility at 3251 Lewiston St., Suite 10, will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Most electronic items—desktop computers, laptops, cell phones, tablets, gaming equipment, consumer electronics and similar—are accepted. A fee of $5 will be charged per vehicle/individual for one standard grocery bag and $10 per vehicle/individual for any load greater than one standard grocery bag. Cash or debit/credit card is preferred as payment.

To address the rising costs associated with processing select electronics, the following additional fees will be applied to recycle these items:
• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitors/LCD All in One Computer (iMac): $5 each
• Flat screen TV (all sizes): $20 each
• TVs and CRT monitors (all sizes): $40 each
• Floor model printers: $30 each
• Projection, DLP and console TVs: $75 each

A complete list of items that are not accepted is available at AuroraGov.org/Recycle.

Techno Rescue, which is certified for electronics recycling and data destruction, wipes and physically destroys all data storage media to protect the identities of those who are recycling responsibly.

Additional dates for special event pricing have been scheduled for 2025 (closed on Saturdays): Jan. 6 to 11, March 31 to April 11, July 7 to 18, and Oct. 6 to 17.

As a reminder, electronics tossed in the trash not only cause serious environmental problems, but also are banned from landfills in Colorado. Environment Aurora, a citywide effort to think green, supports the city of Aurora’s electronics recycling events. For more information, visit AuroraGov.org/Recycle.  

As the city of Aurora moves forward with preparations for the Regional Navigation Campus, slated to open in late 2025, Advance Inc. has been selected as the facility’s operator to help transition individuals from homelessness to permanent housing.  

"Advance’s prior experience and holistic approach to helping individuals transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency will be an asset to the campus," said Jessica Prosser, Aurora’s Director of Housing and Community Services. "Their expertise will be invaluable as we work to deliver comprehensive support and services to those experiencing homelessness in Aurora and the region."

Advance was selected through a competitive request for proposal process, emerging as the top candidate among three non-profit applicants. The contract, approved by the Aurora City Council at the regular meeting on Sept. 23, includes an initial term of three years with the option to extend. 

“We are excited to partner with the city of Aurora to operate the navigation campus and to reach our goal of reducing homelessness in Aurora by 50%,” said Jim Goebelbecker, Advance’s Executive Director. “We look forward to creating pathways for people experiencing homelessness to achieve their highest personal level of self-sufficiency and a sense of hope for the future.”

The selection panel, which included representatives from the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, Adams, Arapahoe, and Douglas counties, as well as city staff, evaluated the proposals based on a set of criteria, including experience on similar projects, data gathering capabilities, proposed timing of occupancy and programming, and experience on operations fundraising. 

The $2 million operations agreement, funded by Aurora’s general fund and marijuana tax revenue, covers shelter and case management services, among other services for the unhoused in the region. Advance will also be responsible for securing additional public and private funding to sustain campus services.

Beginning Oct. 1, Advance will take over the Aurora Day Resource Center’s operations from Mile High Behavioral Healthcare. This handover will ensure uninterrupted services as Advance prepares for its expanded role at the navigation campus. Services at the center, such as employment assistance and cold-weather emergency shelter, will remain unchanged during this transition.

The city will host another round of community engagement events later this fall to introduce Advance to local business owners and residents near the navigation campus and provide project updates. The public is encouraged to sign up for project updates at EngageAurora.org/NavigationCampus.

In January 2024, Aurora City Council approved the purchase of the property at 15550 E. 40th Ave. in Aurora (formerly the Crowne Plaza Hotel) for its regional navigation campus to support individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability using a “work first” approach. 

As the city prepares for the regional navigation campus, the Pallet Shelter community at Restoration Christian Fellowship Church, located at 15660 E. Sixth Ave. and managed by The Salvation Army, will close on Sept. 25. This date was selected as Restoration Christian Fellowship is moving forward with plans to build affordable housing on its property. The city supports these efforts for more sustainable, longer-term housing for residents in need, and provided financing for the project. The Salvation Army and city staff have been assisting current shelter residents in finding shelter and other resources. The Safe Outdoor Space at The Salvation Army, 11701 E. 33rd Ave., will remain operational. The city is considering phasing out the Pallet Shelter program as it works toward focusing resources on the forthcoming navigation campus.

The following statement from Mayor Mike Coffman and Council Member Danielle Jurinsky, chair of the council's Public Safety, Courts and Civil Service Policy Committee – with the full endorsement of City Manager Jason Batchelor and the Aurora Police Department – addresses new information related to the ongoing discussion of the presence of Tren de Aragua (TdA) in the region:

We would like to clear the record about the widely reported presence of Tren de Aragua (TdA) in Aurora and across the metro area. We want to provide an update about the facts of the situation and the Aurora Police Department’s collaborative, ongoing efforts to investigate and aggressively pursue criminal activity linked to TdA members and associates.

The city’s duty is to make sure it gathers and presents factual, accurate, and comprehensive information about any issue affecting the community. We reiterate that the safety, security, and well-being of community members and visitors is of paramount concern to us and the city. 

As for the perception and reality of public safety in Aurora, please understand that issues experienced at a select few properties do not apply to the city as a whole or large portions of it. TdA has not “taken over” the city. The overstated claims fueled by social media and through select news organizations are simply not true. Again, TdA’s presence in Aurora is limited to specific properties, all of which the city has been addressing in various ways for months.

For some time, well before concerns about TdA in Colorado generated national attention, APD had been arresting people for various criminal activities who had suspected, but not necessarily confirmed, TdA connections. To date, APD has now linked 10 people to TdA and has arrested eight of those people. Two of the eight individuals who were taken into custody were involved in a July shooting at one of the specific properties in the city that have experienced issues with TdA activity. In line with these arrests, we can also now confirm that criminal activity, including TdA issues, had significantly affected those properties.

New and more comprehensive information is linked here in a summary of documented members of TdA known to Aurora police to date that we encourage everyone to thoroughly review. APD and its partners will continue to make arrests, seize weapons, and collect evidence. They will keep working to put criminals in jail.

The existence of this criminal element is a regional issue. Just recently arrests have also been made in Denver and Arapahoe County. For this reason, a special task force was established in collaboration with Aurora and other local, state, and federal partners. The focus of the task force is to address concerns about TdA and other criminal activity affecting our communities.

We are optimistic about public safety in our city especially as Chief Todd Chamberlain brings fresh perspective and decades of experience to APD. We will continue to embrace our identity as the most diverse city in Colorado and remain steadfast in our commitment to arrest bad actors.

The term is ending Dec. 31 for three Aurora Planning and Zoning Commission members, and the city of Aurora is accepting applications now to fill those seats.

The deadline to apply to be considered for one of the impending vacancies is Oct. 11. The Aurora City Council will determine candidates to interview by Oct. 28, with interviews taking place during the Nov. 4 council study session. New commissioners will be appointed Nov. 18.

The outgoing commissioners may reapply to be reappointed, which may impact the current schedule based on any City Council decision to reappoint.

The commission provides recommendations to the Aurora City Council on zoning and a wide range of planning- and development-related issues. Members also review site plans and use approvals unless appealed to the City Council.

Members must be registered electors and residents of Aurora for at least one year immediately preceding the date of their appointment. No member shall hold paid office or position in the city administration. If any member ceases to be an Aurora resident, membership will terminate immediately. The term of service is three years.

To apply for the commission, call the City Clerk’s Office at 303.739.7094 or visit AuroraGov.org/Boards. The Aurora City Council will interview selected applicants at a future study session.

The commission usually meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.

Congratulations to Randy Simpson, Manager of Aurora’s Television and Cable Services, on being named the 2024 recipient of the Brian Wilson Memorial Award from NATOA, the government telecommunicators organization. This national award recognizes the person whose career has exemplified innovation, leadership and service in the field of government programming and is considered among the industry’s top recognitions. Randy, who has been with AuroraTV since 1986 and the manager for the past 15 years, was honored with a video tribute and standing ovation at NATOA’s annual convention in Charleston, South Carolina. Watch the video tribute to Randy on AuroraTV.org.

AuroraTV was also recognized at the conference with several top national honors in NATOA’s annual Government Programming  Awards. Awards of Excellence are considered first-place recognition; Awards of Distinction are the next-highest recognition, followed by Awards of Honor. Check out the list of AuroraTV’s 2024 awards below, and click on the links to view the award-winning stories:

• News Series – Award of Excellence – “Aurora Now”
• Diversity/Equity/Inclusion – Award of Excellence – “Rebels in the Garden”
• Election Coverage – Award of Excellence – “Election Night 2023”
• Overall Excellence (Operating Budget $500,000-$1 million) – Award of Distinction – “AuroraTV – Excellence in Government Programming”
• Interview/Talk Show – Award of Distinction – “Studio A: Global Fest”
• Animal Services – Award of Distinction – “Prescription Pet Program”
• Profile of a Resident, Business or Organization (Operating Budget $200,000-$600,000) – Award of Distinction – “Monkey Paw Toys”
• Community Awareness (Operating Budget $400,000-$1 million) – Award of Distinction – “A-1 Boxing”
• Videography – Award of Distinction – “AuroraTV – Excellence in Videography”
• Children/Young Adults – Award of Honor – “Water Conservation Service”
• Historical – Award of Honor – “Charles Burrell: Music Legend”
• Historical – Award of Honor – “The Stanley History”
• Special Audience (Operating Budget over $500,000) – Award of Honor – “Opening the Outdoors Through Action Trackchairs”
• Public Service Announcement (Operating Budget over $350,000) – Award of Honor – “Finn the Shark”
• Storytelling – Award of Honor – “AuroraTV – Excellence in Storytelling”

This marks AuroraTV’s 10th win for top News Series. Be sure to catch the latest episode of Aurora Now every week starting Wednesdays at AuroraTV.org, Comcast 8/880, or the AuroraTV app for smartphones and streaming devices.

As part of the city’s launch of DevPortal.AuroraGov.org this year, some additional online services will move to the new platform in the coming weeks. Customers may use the portal to access the services listed below starting on the following dates:

• July 19: Aurora Water floodplain development permits
• Aug. 2: Temporary use permits, temporary sign permits and film permits
  • Temporary use permits are required if an activity like an athletic event, street fair, arts and crafts show, carnival, rally, parade or similar will occur on a city street or right of way and interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic or if the activity will occur on private property.
  • Temporary sign permits are only required for the display of pennants and home builder signs for development.
  • Film permits are required for any commercial, non-commercial or student-produced film, video or photography activity that occurs in Aurora city limits and meets certain criteria (including filming on city-owned property, potential disruption caused by the filming activity, display of firearms within view of the public, or use of pyrotechnics)
• Sept. 13: Arborist license application and renewal
• Sept. 27: Donation bin permits and block party permits
  • Donation bin permits are required for all existing and new donation bins (operated by charitable or for-profit organizations).
  • Block party permits are only required if neighbors want to block off a city street or cul-de-sac with barricade for a neighborhood event.

DevPortal.AuroraGov.org will be offline from 6 p.m. the night prior to new services launching until the morning of the day of launch.

Services on this new portal will continue to roll out in phases over the coming months. Community and neighborhood group registration, pre-application services, and small cell and fiber licensing have already moved to the portal. 

Future phases of the portal will include the addition of other commercial business online services related to code enforcement, building, planning and development, Aurora Water business services, and public review and comment of development projects. Until additional planning, building and development services shift to the new portal, business and residential customers should continue using Aurora4Biz.org and BuildAurora.org—along with AuroraGov.org—for online services not available on DevPortal.AuroraGov.org

These improvements are part of the city’s Development Process Improvement Plan to streamline processes, enhance review capabilities and provide better customer service.

The city of Aurora is accepting applications now through July 31 for an impending opening on the Aurora Police Pension Plan Board of Trustees. 

Any Aurora resident or person who owns or operates a business in Aurora may apply to serve on the board, and the three-year term of service starts in January. This is a board-appointed position, and applicants will interview with the board virtually for consideration.

This board approves benefits, reviews financial information and takes other actions as needed related to the city’s “old hire” police plan, which is a closed defined-benefit public pension plan designed to provide lifetime monthly retirement benefits to uniformed officers of the Aurora Police Department—and their survivors—hired before April 8, 1978.

The seven-member board meets as needed in person or virtually, and generally meets one to two times per year. This is a non-compensated board.

To find out more and apply, visit AuroraGov.org/Boards (click on Aurora Police Pension Fund Board) or call Eleanor Beeby at 303.739.6216.

A public recognition event for Korean War veterans in Colorado will honor more than a dozen men for their service in the international conflict. The city of Aurora is hosting a ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 12, at the Aurora Municipal Center, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway, to present the Ambassador for Peace Medal. This commemorative medal is an expression of appreciation from the Korean government to American veterans who served in the Korean War.

Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman and Consul General Jung-taek Lim of the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in San Francisco are jointly sponsoring the event. Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera and Korean community members will join them.

Many veterans receiving the Ambassador for Peace Medal are expected to attend the ceremony. The veterans being recognized are:

• Freddie Duane Brewer
• Edward Sylvester Britton, Jr.
• Gerald Robert Boodry
• Richard Charles Hall
• Leon Eugene Henry
• Robert J. Rea
• Edward T. Rodriguez
• Joseph John Scheib
• Wayne K. Toby
• Gary F. Wilson
• Jesse Frank Wilson
• Richard Gene Eckles (deceased)
• William Gustaf Erickson (deceased)
• Glenn William Tiemann (deceased)
• Charles Douglas Ward (deceased)
• Bobbie Alfred Goodwin (missing in action, presumed dead)
• Rofino Simbre (killed in action)

The Korean War was fought between North Korea and South Korea between 1950 and 1953. United States military forces were joined by 21 other countries in driving the forces of North Korea, China and Russia out of the Republic of Korea.

More than 10 similar Ambassador for Peace Medal presentations have previously occurred in our region. Each medal has been important and meaningful to the recipient, and equally meaningful to their families, the state and the United States, in showing what the result can be of true commitment to one’s country.

The ceremony taking place inside the Paul Tauer City Council Chamber will be streamed live on AuroraTV.org and on the AuroraTV app.

The opening of a new trail connection and pedestrian bridge will serve as the highlight of the city of Aurora’s participation this year in Bike to Work Day, which is Wednesday, June 26.

Residents and riders participating in Bike to Work Day are invited to stop by our breakfast station for donuts, coffee and fruit anytime from 6:45 to 9 a.m. on the south side of the new pedestrian bridge spanning Interstate 70 on the High Line Canal trail east of Tower Road.

The High Line Canal Conservancy will join the city at 8:30 a.m. for a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening of the High Line Canal Trail: Colfax to I-70 project that closes a two-mile gap along the canal. A ceremonial walk across the bridge will follow the ribbon cutting event. Project information is available at AuroraGov.org/HLCT.

The city also will host a breakfast station farther south on the High Line Canal trail near the trail underpass on the west side of Chambers Road, just northeast of the Aurora Municipal Center. Free beverages and breakfast burritos (sponsored by Bicycle Aurora) will be available from 6:45 to 9 a.m.

Anyone who stops by either station is encouraged to share thoughts about transportation in Aurora as part of the city’s Connecting Aurora multimodal transportation master plan project.

Whether you are working in the office, working in the field, working remotely or just working to complete a few errands on June 26, pledge to take two wheels instead of four to help improve the region’s air quality. Combining the ride with public transit or parking your car closer to work and biking the rest of the way makes participation even easier.

Anyone who registers at BikeToWorkDay.co will be entered into drawings to win prizes, including an e-bike. The Anschutz Medical Campus, Hardt Family Cyclery, Second Dawn Brewery and Stanley Marketplace (hosted by Northeast Transportation Connections) also will provide station stops for riders in Aurora.

Bike to Work Day is presented by Way to Go—a program of the Denver Regional Council of Governments. For more information, including station locations, visit BikeToWorkDay.co.

To improve the guest experience and safety, the city of Aurora is temporarily implementing new park hours and regulations at Aurora Reservoir, 5800 S. Powhaton Road. Effective Saturday, June 8, park hours on Saturdays and Sundays will be 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guests will also see increased security on weekends to ensure the safety of all visitors.

Temporary regulation changes now prohibit the possession and consumption of alcohol at Aurora Reservoir. Park rules prohibiting loud music will also be strictly enforced.

“Aurora Reservoir is a beautiful and unique space within the city, and one that we want all guests to be able to enjoy,” said Parks, Recreation and Open Space Director Brooke Bell. “We are making these changes to improve the experience for all guests and to assist our staff in managing the large crowds we see during the warmer months.”

There will be signage posted at the park in both English and Spanish that reminds visitors of the new hours and restrictions.

The changes will not have an impact on prescheduled, permitted, large-scale events or any other Parks, Recreation and Open Space facilities or parks.

For more information about Aurora Reservoir, visit AuroraGov.org/AuroraReservoir.

The city of Aurora is improving its process for small cell and fiber licensing when it launches the second phase of DevPortal.AuroraGov.org later this month.

The first phase of this new portal—an upgrade of an existing software program—launched in March with Office of Development Assistance pre-application services and neighborhood and community group registration.

This second phase will upgrade the licensing process for small cell and fiber from an email process to an online system, which will streamline the licensing process for businesses.

DevPortal.AuroraGov.org will be offline from 6 p.m. Thursday, May 23, until the morning of Friday, May 24. The small cell and fiber licensing services will be available on the portal starting May 24.

Services on this new portal will continue to roll out in phases over the coming months. Future phases of the portal will include the addition of other commercial business online services related to temporary use permits, code enforcement, building, planning and development, Aurora Water business services, and public review and comment of development projects.

Until additional planning, building and development services shift to the new portal, business and residential customers should continue using Aurora4Biz.org and BuildAurora.org—along with AuroraGov.org—for online services unrelated to small cell and fiber licensing, neighborhood and community group registration, and pre-application services.

The improvements to this online customer portal technology are part of the city’s Development Process Improvement Plan to streamline processes, enhance review capabilities and provide better customer service.

Join the Rotary Clubs of Aurora for a free, interactive Fire Safety Field Day from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 18, at the City of Aurora Public Safety Training Center, 25950 E. Quincy Ave., next to the Aurora Reservoir.

The Fire Safety Field Day will feature opportunities for families to see demonstrations like extrications and CPR, put out a fire, learn about scientific methods for fire investigations, climb inside a fire engine and ambulance, experience thermal imaging technology and race firefighters around the training ground.

The event coincides with the International Rotary Day of Service and kicks off a year-long fundraising campaign by the local Rotary chapters to purchase a mobile fire safety house for Aurora Fire Rescue. This trailer would be used to provide hands-on fire safety and emergency education to area schools, civic organizations and community groups.

The event is free and open to the public (with the completion of a safety waiver). As it is a fundraiser, donations are requested.

This Earth Day, let’s come together to enhance the beauty of our community, protect the environment and promote sustainable practices for a greener future! There are several opportunities to do your part.

Earth Day Clean-up Event
Keep Colorado colorful by cleaning up natural open space areas at the upcoming Earth Day Clean-up event at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 20, at Centre Hills Park, 16300 E. Centretech Parkway. All supplies provided. To register, visit AuroraGov.org/OSNRvolunteers. For questions about the clean-up and to register volunteers ages 15 and younger, email Fendi Despres at [email protected].

Free mulch
The city is offering free mulch on select Saturdays (April 20, May 18, June 15, July 20 and Aug. 17). Bring your pick-up truck or open trailer; we'll fill it with mulch! Bring your shovels, pitchforks and containers to serve yourself.

Mulch will be available from 7 a.m. to noon while supplies last at the intersection of East Hampden Avenue and South Dawson Street. Enter via South Dawson Street and follow the signs. Visit AuroraGov.org/Trees for more information and a map of the site.

Electronics Recycling
Electronics are banned from landfills in Colorado. To help Aurorans recycle their electronics and do so responsibly, the city is hosting a series of e-cycle events through Techno Rescue, a local veteran-owned IT company June 17 to 21 and June 24 to 28 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and June 22 (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.).

Techno Rescue can recycle most items with a cord or a battery, including desktops, laptops, cell phones, tablets, gaming equipment, consumer electronics and more. All data storage media are wiped and physically destroyed to protect your identity. For a list of non-acceptable items and more information, visit AuroraGov.org/Recycle.

Free paint recycling event
Through the free PaintCare program, unused paint can be returned to many of the locations where it was purchased. Visit PaintCare for a complete list of locations and items accepted. Contact the store directly to confirm business hours.