Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'll go and start that now and you'll get the vocal QP. Thank you so much. All right, good evening. This is Steve Kathleen Chair of the Denver Regional Council of Governments calling the regular meeting for Wednesday, December, the twentieth, 23 to 2,023 to order. December, the twentieth has great meaning in our family. Today would be my parents seventieth wedding anniversary. So at December, the twentieth is a cool date in that regard. With that, we will stand for the Pledge of Allegiance if you are able. I pledge allegiance to the flag. Hmm.
Good. Doing fly? Okay, United States of America. In the room. Same. In public. Good job. Individual with lift. The Republic for which it stands. One Nation, under God. Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Okay. Okay. That was odd. I heard nobody, so. Thank you all. With that, Melinda, are you taking attendance virtually or do we need to do a roll call? Sorry about that, Mr. Chair. Yes, we will do a roll call. Would you like to do the introduction of new members and alternates first or after.
Okay. Yes, please. And I would, I do not have that in front of me. So if. Are there Mr. Rex for you, Melody would like to do that? That would be great. I'd be happy to if you'll give me just one moment to pull that up. Let's see. Huh. And thank you all for joining us virtually tonight. We thought that would hopefully make your holidays a little easier not having to come downtown for the meeting. So. Alright, sorry, the documents opening. Okay. So we do have 2 new members. We have Michelle Rogers from the city of Dakota.
And we have Judy Kern from the city of Lewisville so welcome to our members And then. Fantastic. Welcome. Thank you. Yes. And we do have a few new alternates. First one is Sharon Davis from the city of Arvata. And then we have Adam Morehead from the city of Dakono. We have Dietrich Hoffner from the city of Lewisville. He was actually the member prior and is now taking alternate position. And then we have Rachel Houtine for the city of Wheatbridge. So welcome to our alternates as well. Fantastic. Welcome to all of you. Thank you very much. And now we will do the roll call. Thank you. Fantastic. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Alright, and if you are not able to speak or, say that you're here while I'm doing the attendance.
I will ask people to raise their hand virtually so we can make sure that we get shown the record. Okay? All right, here we go. Adams County, Steve Ottericio. Lindbacca, Adams County. Jeff Baker, Rockaho County. Older County, Claire Levy. Here. Yep, I'm here. City and County of Broomfield, Austin War. Thank you. Clear Creek County, Randy Wheelock. George Marling Clear Creek County. I'm sorry. Nicholas Williams, City and County of Denver. Here. Kevin Flynn sitting in County of Denver. Also here. George Thiel, Douglas County. Yes, ma'am. All right, Marine Morris, Gilpin County. Tracy Kraft, Jefferson County.
Yes. Lisa Faray, city of Sharon Davis, Arvada. Okay. Dustin's fauna, aora. Larry David Spelman, Blackhawk. Nicole Spear, Boulder. Here. Margo Rams and Beaumont. Jan Plasky, Brighton. Debor Movie, Castle Pines. Here. Tim Deed's Castro. Was it? Tammy Mauer Centennial. Happy holidays, I'm here. Thank you, Tammy. Todd Williams, Central City. Randy, Wheel, Cherry Hills Village. Earl Holland, Cherry Hills Village. Susan Noble, Commerce City. Michelle Rogers Dakono Adam Morehead, Dcono. See in Conklin Edgewater. Awesome.
Well, thank you, Sarah. Inwood. Happy holidays. Present. Ari Harrison, Erie. Happy holidays here. Okay. Linda Montoya, Federal Heights. Okay, Jensen, Federal Heights. Don Konyak Firestone. David Whitland Firestone. Josie Cockrell, Foxfield. Present. Thank you, Linet Kelsey, Georgetown. Rachel Binkley, Glendale. Here. Ryan to share Glendale. Oh, Don Cameron, Golden. George Lance, Greenwood, Greenwood Village. Dave Kerber Greenwood Village. Chuck Harmon, Idaho Springs. Here. Brian Wong Lafayette Here. Jeslin share Z, Lakewood. Here. Isaac Levy, large spur. Stephen Barr, Littleton. Here. Kyle, oh, there we go. Thank you, Stephen. Cat Bristol. Present. When Shaw alone tree. Present. Joan Peck, Longman. I see her. Yep. Judy, I was like, I saw her maybe she's having technical difficulties, but we'll get you down, Joan.
Judy Kurt, Lewisville. Polly Rogan, Lions. Thank you. Colleen Whitlow, need. Thank you. Present. All sudden, Morrison. Okay. Adam Way Morrison. Tom will hold Netherland. Here. Richard Condo, Northland. John Dyack Parker. Jeff to Bourg, Parker. See, Neil Shaw, Superior. I'm here. Okay, Jessica Sandra. I'm here. S. Yeah. But starker, wheatridge. I'm here and happy holidays to everyone. Thank you. Dairy's Papa, Cedar. Here. Sally Cheei, Cedar. Brian Welch, RTD. Hi, here in Centennial. Wonderful. Thank you. And with that, Mr. Chair, we do have a quorum. And in chat we do have that Steve Otto Recio from Adams County is here and that Michelle Rogers from the city of Dakota is here as well.
So thank you to those individuals for. Making that note in the chat. And we will move ahead in just a moment here. And Wendy Patia from Frederick is here as well. So with that, do I have a motion to approve the agenda? I would move to approve the agenda for, December 2023. Okay, and that was Director Teal. Thank you, Director Teal for the motion. Do we have a second? Look.
Second. I'll second it. It's Joan Peck. Joan Peck is the second. Thank you very much. Any discussion? All in favor signify by saying I? I Hi. Hi. Hi. Eddie Pose nay. And any abstentions. Thank you very much. Mary Starker, I see your hand, but I assumed that was for the motion. Okay. Okay. Actually, no, I had noted in the copy of the agenda that I got that we had. It looked like an, an incorrect time on our meetings for January and February and I don't know whether Melinda was able to get that. Corrected before the before the minutes. But before the meeting. It was on page 4. Okay, thank you. My apologies, Dr. Starker. I was not able to. But thank you for bringing it up. But so, Mayor Sarker, if your motion could be to approve. But with those changes. I would motion to approve with those changes. Okay, and is the second comfortable with that? Yes. Okay. And actually, I'm sorry, it was director Teal that I made the motion. So. Yeah. Yeah. I'm not used to this virtual thing again.
As long as there's no objection, we will take that we have approved those with those changes being made. Come on. I don't think that's very controversial. With that, we will move ahead to the report of the chair and we will start with a report of the performance and engagement committee which did not meet tonight but I don't know Director Baker if you have any other comments. No, I don't. Thank you all. We did not meet tonight. Okay, finance and budget committee did meet director Whitlow. Thank you very much, Chair. We had 2 action items tonight. One was to allocate 1.6 million dollars of additional state and federal funds to AAA contractors. And to allocate $200,000 to human services transportation set aside funds to selected projects.
And I just wanted to say thank you very much to the members who join tonight for the for the, the finance and budget committee. And I wish everyone a happy holiday season. Thank you, Chair. Thank you for your report. Thank you for your service. With that, our report of the executive director, Mr. Rex. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, very much. I got 3 or 4 items for you this evening.
The first that I just wanted to. Give you a quick update on our regional housing needs assessment. It's in full swing as you know. And really. More of a heads up with regards to what's gonna be on the calendar for the January. Third, board work session. So we're gonna have our consultants are gonna be present and they're gonna share some of their initial findings of the assessment.
I had an opportunity to listen in to the presentation that they gave to the assessment advisory committee and it was really data rich and I think we're gonna have a great conversation with them on January third. So please, if you can make every effort to be there, I think you would really appreciate and be intrigued by some of the results. Thank you. You're more than welcome to invite. Fight staff within your communities to attend that as well as you know our board work sessions are virtual so please we'll We, we would appreciate all, comers. So. I'm looking forward to that conversation. Front range passenger rail district board you Many of you will know this and the new folks may not, but we, Dr.
Cog has 4 representatives on the front rings passenger rail district board and the terms for 2 of those CSR ending on March first of 2,024. We are currently soliciting candidates and the board will select its appointees for these 2 positions at the February meeting. You should have received an invitation, yesterday and, application from Melinda. And, if you have any question, please reach out to Jacob and myself. Jacob Reagan or myself and we'll be happy to. To get you going in the right direction. Third thing I want to bring up real quick is, our, our comprehensive economic development strategy.
We are in the home stretch and putting putting on the finishing touches. Of the draft, sets documents. Flow, our staff chief presented the draft. To the says leadership team yesterday and in our regular board meeting. Room. And, yeah, good conversation. We had some good comments associated with. I believe the leadership teams had the document, at least the text of the document for, a week or so now. And I know they provide a comment. So we're, we're gonna, we're gonna take, you know, some time and put the finishing touches on that, fine tune a document before you all see it. Later in January. So looking forward to getting that behind us. And the last thing I want to mention is winter bike to work days right around the corner. It's Friday February ninth. We're of course well known for our summer event. It's the second largest, bike to work day event in the country. The winter event is geared towards demonstrating that bicycle is a viable option of transportation year-round even in the colder Colorado months. And we have a number of folks on staff that they commute. Every day, cold or not.
So, really appreciate them. Kinda leading the charge, but we're expecting about 5,000 riders. And, we'll have dozens of, stations kind of like we do for the summer events. So, even if you're not commuting, we would encourage you to. To try your metal, and ride the bike during the winter and, hopefully we have some half days and weather to accommodate that. So if you, if you need any information or, hopefully we have some half the same weather to accommodate that. So if you, if you need any information or, hopefully we have some, some weather to accommodate that. So if, if you need any information or, or, you know, have Any questions about stations or anything related to the event, please reach out to Steve, and our staff and he'll put you in the right.
Right place. Last I did want to mention I had the opportunity, Golly, Chair Conklin, a couple of weeks ago now, to attend. Chair Conklin's his swearing in. Many of you know that, he's the new mayor of Edgewater and I've been, I've been doing this work for 30 plus years and I've always appreciated the opportunity to be able to be there for swearing in. It's I'll tell you, I have said this a million times and I'm not just phone smoke. I have so much appreciation for. For the job that locally elected officials do. I don't think the public will fully appreciate exactly how much time and effort it takes to do that job. So I'm so appreciated when I get, you know, when I get to go to one of those functions in here. You know, the actual swearing in and what you all are committing to do. And I, from a citizen, I'm really happy that that you're all willing to do what you do.
So thank you very much. And lastly, I just want to wish everybody a safe and and continuous, happy holiday season, looking forward to seeing you back in person. In January. So with that, Mr. Chairman, that's my report. Thank you. Right. Thank you very much. And, Doug, it made a great deal to have you there at my swearing in. Yeah. Doug also brought my block of wood. We did the block of wood distribution at our last meeting, but Doug brought brought mine and presented it. I really appreciated that. So thank you. One of the things we value in our meetings is the opportunity for public comment. Up to 45 min is allocated now for public comment. Each speaker is limited to 3 min. If there are additional requests for the public to address the board, time could be allocated to the end of the meeting to complete public comment. The chair requests there be no public comment on issues for which a prior public hearing has been held before this board and consent and agenda items will begin immediately after the last speaker.
Well, we have a Papa Comet. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I guess we can give it just a few moments. I guess at this time I do not see any virtual hands. Okay, thank you very much. And again, that's an important part of, of our meetings. Great. A consent agenda. Next item, do I have a motion to approve the consent agenda, which includes the summary of the November fifteenth meeting and also the fiscal year, 2,000, and, 2,400, and, 2427 transportation improvement programme amendments. From. Go moved. Okay, thank you. And do we have a second? Second. Great. Thank you very much. Any discussion? So motion by Director Starker, second by Director Shaw. Bye. Hi. Aye. Hi. Bye. Bye. Hi. Hi. Hi. All in favor signify by saying aye. Kennedy oppose me. And any abstentions. Great, we have an agenda. Moving ahead to action items, discussion of the draft, 2,000, and 23 policy statement on state legislative issues. It is that time of year. Attachment to Rich Morrow, Director of Legislative Affairs, the floor is yours. Good evening, Mr. Chair and directors. Thank you. So yeah, you've got. Attachment C and this is the document that was presented to you.
Last month and given an opportunity to review and make comments and it's back This month with one. Additional suggested amendment that. Proposed by Director Speer. Behalf of city of Boulder. Do you wanna speak to it, Director Spear? Sure, again, happy to do that. Let's just, quick little, amendment. And basically this was trying to get at the recognizing that the direction the bills are heading, they're likely to involve some land use policies. Similar to what stated in our mitigation actions plan and just because the housing issues of the legislature is, least it sounds like they're hoping to address their closely tied to land use policies. We were just hoping it could be a little more explicit about our preference on how the state would engage, engage on land use issues.
Basically just dating that for Dr. Our preference is for an incentive, a incentivization approach over a mandate approach and that this, overall preference extends to land use as well. Thank you and I guess we'll see if there's any other. Comments from the other directors. Otherwise, If there's any other comments about anything that you didn't bring up before, we can consider those 2 otherwise be happy to entertain a motion and I see Mr. Chair, I see, Director Sandra's hand up. Dr. Sandra. Thank you. Yeah, we just actually had our CML meeting. Last week and talked about, some of the bills coming up. And it looks like a lot of what we saw last year is being broken apart into smaller. Chunks, I think some of the concerns are still around the. The the TOD areas. And, I don't know. I guess we just need to keep an eye on that again, because as we know, RTD and the actual frequency function the way that it should if we were going to actually incentivize, frequency function the way that it should if we were going to actually incentivize, transit over vehicles.
That doesn't actually happen for most of us, especially outside of the downtown area so just keeping an eye on that. Especially as it relates to that land use for the I appreciate Okay, thank you. Director Harrison, you had your hand up and then went away. Are you good? Okay, directory. Thank you. I, well, I wanted to speak to another, very small, amendment that I didn't submit in advance. Are you are we still discussing, Director Spears proposal? Or I think, let me know, Richard or Doug, if you feel differently, but I think you can make other other comments now as well. Certainly. Okay, yeah, I, and I do apologize for not sending this in advance. On the, in the housing section where it talks about Hmm. That's release and it's page 32 packet.
Where it talks about property tax relief to help reduce the tax viability that especially burdens low-income seniors and older adults on fixed income. I wonder if I would like to propose an amendment. That would add language that would include moderate income homeowners in areas with rapidly rising property values. And what this gets at is. Communities where even moderate income people are seeing their home. Their property values rise to pretty jaw-dropping. Numbers and their property tax liability were increased commensurately, whereas they're, very, you know, modest income people. So it would. The language that I propose is. To add after. Low income seniors on a moderate income homeowners in areas with rapidly rising property values. And older adults on fixed incomes. Hmm. Okay. Director Harrison. What would we define as moderate? In terms of, in terms of income. Where we go according to what we know. Or what's out there. Treasure Levy, did you have a thought on that or staff? I don't actually, I mean, we talk about low incomeincome seniors. You know, I don't know that these are need to be. Precisely defined. Cool.
Someone was detecting at your front door. Amazon. Yeah. Director Harrison, was that enough of an answer or would you like? Well, I mean, I think I agree with the with the sentiment and try and in terms of what we're trying to accomplish try to keep people in their homes. I guess it's just a question of what we consider moderate. Low in terms of those brackets. So that we can come up with some sort of cost price. In tomorrow. If I may. Mr. Chair, we do. We do have, as Director Levy mentioned references to low income without defining low And in. That one that we already have in the existing statement. On the screen there. Increase financial support for loan and grant programs for low and moderate income housing. We haven't defined that either. So personally, I'm comfortable with. Sort of general understandings of of what those meaning. I mean, but obviously. Will go with what the directors decide.
And I'll just say, you know, it's not. I think it's just a sort of policy direction. We don't need to. Really parse the exact numbers or what we would any of our jurisdictions we lose in property tax revenue. It's just recognizing. The effect of the rising property values on on people who don't. Whose incomes aren't rising at the same rate. I agree with that from the policy direction. So I'm fine. Okay. Director pack Yes, I'm assuming that we would, use the HUD definition. Of affordable and low income with the and I'm assuming moderate would be in the attainable of portable. Which would be 120. To, 1 50 or 80 to 1 20. So, if it needs to be defined. I would like to use the hub definition of what moderate and low income is. That's good input. Okay. Thank you. Director Muldi. Thank you. Yeah, I support this proposal. Because there are many areas where those who wish to have tax relief. May not garner the full support. Of their governing bodies to lower a as a lot of folks have encouraged to be done and it The rationale may be that most residents don't need it.
But the rationale for the opposite is that there are many residents who do need it. And to include this kind of stipulation. That there would be. Tax relief proposals. That we can support for those who do need that relief. In the moderate to low income area. It would certainly alleviate the problem. That some are assuming. For some areas. That there aren't people in need. So, whereas we have these steadily rising taxes and increasing male levees. So. So I'm full support of it for that reason. Thank you, Clara. Traffic, treacherous spear. I think director, Ner, have been ahead of me. Yeah. Okay, I'm sorry. I'm just going based on what's on my screen, but direct from your MALE, if you want to go ahead, we'll circle back. Thank you, Director Spear. I am also supportive of capturing the moderate income households. I know that I would be hesitant to place a exact number because I feel like the state sort of and other in specific departments kind of waffle between.
Around the definition, 100, 2,040, to 160 sometimes. So, The only thing I would, you know, maybe it's a simplified statement of. Protecting households that are. Hello and low and moderate income households that are vulnerable to displacement. If. That's our main concern here. So that's just Just a suggestion and maybe something that is consistent with. How we define the displacement issue so Okay, it it sounds like on that particular issue, the sentiment is not being overly prescriptive. Possibly using existing definitions. Mr. Morrow has kind of said, at least what I heard Rich saying is that that they've kind of got that. Are we comfortable just consensus having rich? Add something in that deals with that but in language that's that's helpful for them as they actually are at the Capitol actually working on this in that issue.
Is that? Anybody object to that? I don't see any hands objecting at this. My director Spear. Yes, I had one other thing and I apologize for not sending this in an advance. It's on that same. Page with that we're seeing right now where it says actions to provide more accessible and attainable housing options for seniors. Sure. Okay. I'm wondering if we can just add and individuals with disabilities. This was something that came up in the study session when we were hearing from the governor's office and it's consistent with the language in other parts of the document related to transportation.
Any objections to that? Since. Yeah. Okay, I see a little heart floating up there. So, director Movie, I see your hands. I gotta put down, sorry about that. And okay. Okay. Richard, you getting what you need from this? I want to be sure that, that we're not Confusing the issue with you. No, I think I'm good. Yeah, I think I got it. Okay, fantastic. I've got a question. Do we in here have enough coverage for that one of our values is local decision-making. You have given where the state's been on some things, it just feels like maybe us expressing that, that we respect regionalism, but we also respect the ability of a local municipality to for that municipality.
Is that? Covered is that something that would make sense in here? I apologize if I missed it. Rich to you know. Okay. What's it? Yeah, I'd have to go back and look through it, I think, to see. I think, you know, generally. We've had language that's sort of kind of. Balances the regional decision making and the local. Sure. Decision and respecting both of those. Which is ideal. Yeah. I director Shah. Yeah. Thank you. Yeah, I would support that kind of wording that, we are in favor of local decision making and and regional collaboration if there's some sort of, phraseology that could be used like that. If we do not already have it. In fact, I wondered if maybe that local decision making comment could have gone where Director Spears section. Hmm. Hmm. Appeared. Again, not wanting to get too prescriptive in this document about what they might approach. I love the first sentence. Bye, I almost think the second sense could be replaced by something that says, local decision making.
Should rain supreme. Well, or maybe, I'm sorry, just thinking off top my head here. Something like where it starts out, Dr. Cox's supports. Stay policy. That respects local decision making authority and incentivizes local governments. Yes, I like that. And then I'm fine with the other. I just don't want to limit ourselves to. State policies related to comprehensive plans or zoning codes and then they come up with something else like you know. It and then by being too prescriptive, we limit ourselves. I don't wanna do that. I really would love to broad brush. Trek to Levy and then Director Spear. Yeah, thank you. I worry about including that language on local control. Just thinking back, you know, to the bill that shall not be mentioned. There were some provisions in that bill that, that I thought made sense.
And and things. Areas in which I really hope to see the legislature go farther. And this was around, well, the parts that made sense were about strategic priority, state strategic growth priorities. And. And tying funding to. Local decisions that that furthered the strategic growth priorities of the state and they were around things like maximizing. Trans transit options reducing congestion and vehicle miles traveled, etc, and then provisions around. Prioritizing infill development instead of green fields And I don't know whether. You know those kinds of things that say you know we the legislature thinks this is a good way to grow and this is not a good way to grow would be interpreted. As impinging on local control. So this this is what is coming to mind for me.
I think that there are some areas in which. It's appropriate for the state legislature to provide guidance And that, some may seem, may perceive as violating that kind of principle on local control. So I think we've got a lot in here that really does emphasize incentives. And, and I do just worry about, a blanket statement on local control like that. Thank you. Director Speer. Okay. I was actually going to, make, a plug for having a separate statement around preference for, local control, but Claire, I, you just talked me out of it.
So I'm gonna take that back. And just say, you know, I, I do, you know, I agree even in this section right here, you know, I, I do, you know, I agree even in this section right here, you know, I see local pop up a few times and so it does seem to be making that point about, you know, I see local pop up a few times. And so it does seem to be making that point about, collaboration. I And it's certainly sounds like mandates are still a part of what we will be seeing this session, so it'll be interesting. You know, where that goes. Again, I suggest local decision-making as opposed to local control when we talk about this, that it's not a matter of us trying to control, but it's us making those decisions locally. Dr. Levy, I totally agree in terms of of the things that are broad vision, non prescriptive guidance. Where the challenge gets to be is when they are things that are directly affecting municipalities.
And I think one of the challenges is even with the incentives, sometimes that incentive is you either do it or we're going to push you off the cliff. So I don't necessarily consider that instead, but we'll talk about that more as we go. So I'm comfortable with. That not being there, based on the conversation we just had, any other comments before we move on. Okay, Richard, you got what you need? I believe so, yes. Well. So if we could get a motion supporting. Moving this forward with rich finalizing some of those those areas and that we are empowering rich and staff to to to align that with with what our conversation this was. Director Shaw. Dr. So moved, you said it well. Just second. Okay, any further discussion? And. Hi. Bye. One morning. Hi. All in favor signified by saying I. Any opposed nay? Okay. Why? And then what's that? Hey. Nay. There is an A, okay.
And, and he says, anyone sustaining. Upstream. Okay. Belinda, do we need to do a roll call at all with with the NAY or are we are you comfortable with for the record with what we've got? Fantastic. Thank you very much. I was able to capture it, so, we're okay. Thank you. Thank you, Rich. We will move ahead to item number 10, discussion of the transportation improvement program. Biscuit your 2,023 project delays and we have a presentation from Brad Williams planner in the transportation planning and operations area. Brad? Thank you. Thank you, Mister Chair. If you guys would like, I could share. Yeah, there we go. Can everyone see that? Yes. Alright. Good evening, everyone. I'm Brad Williams, planar with Dr. Kog and we'll be going over fiscal year 23 first year tip project delays. The current tip policy outlines the expectations for the initiation of project phases, including how to address delays if they happen. These delays, regardless of the reasons, tie up the limited funding of available for Dr. Kog to allocate.
After the end of federal fiscal year 23 in early October, Dr. Cog requested c. Dot and RTD. Review the statuses that we've collected from sponsors over this year for projects with FY. 23 funding. After confirming these project statuses, Dr. Cog staff contacted the sponsors with project phases that were not initiated and therefore delayed to find out the reason for their phase not being initiated. To discover the current status of the project and to assist them in developing a plan to initiate the delayed project phase. To avoid a second year delay, all projects identified in this report must initiate their delayed phase by July.
First, 2,024. The the attached report summarizes the project phases that were delayed as of October first. 2023. This report states that 35 projects are first year delayed, of which 3 have already been initiated and are no longer delayed. Some observations about these delays are that there are approximately double the amount of delayed projects compared to a normal year primarily due to a busier than normal call for cycle. Which caused IG the IGA process to be slowed down by the increased number of projects requiring clearances, IGA execution and amendments over the same short period of time.
The other details why the projects are delayed. Involves, primarily IGA slowdowns, which are the reason for the delay in about half of these projects, while many others suffered from the cascading effects caused by the IGA slow down. That cause slow downs in the clearances and utility coordination processes as well. A motion to approve the SASs. Recommendation would allow these projects to continue. I would also like to thank everyone for helping us implement our new project tracking. Which helped us be significantly more prepared heading into the delayed delay process. But by being in contact with sponsors on a monthly basis and having them provide us with monthly updates as well as the help we normally receive from CDI and RTD.
And with that, I can take any questions on these. Thank you very much for their questions for Brad. So you know questions do we have a motion? Oh. Yeah, Dr. Starker, please. I will move to approve the. Delay. Program. Great, thank you and Director Harrison. Second. Fantastic, thank you. Any further discussion? All in favor I? Hi. Hi. Okay. Okay. Bye. Any opposed nay? And any abstentions. Okay, thank you very much. Right, I apologize for the computer buzz if you're hearing that. Next item number 11, discussion of transportation demand management strategic plan at our presenter is Kaylee Fallon, planner in Transportation Planning and Operations. Good evening, thanks for being here. Thank you, Chair and good evening everyone. I will go ahead and share my screen if I can do so.
Great. Good evening, everyone. My name is Caley Fallon. I am the Emerging Mobility and TDM Planner here at Dr. Cog with some really exciting news bringing the transportation, the final transportation demand management strategic plan, to you all this evening. So just an overview of the TDM strategic plan, why we are doing it now. And the overall purpose of the plan. So essentially this TDM strategic plan is an overhaul to Dr. Cogg's short-range TDM plan, which was adopted in 2,012. So over a decade ago and as we know in that decade there has been immense changes in travel behavior in our region especially due to the kovan 19 pandemic as well as changes in demographics and population growth and changes.
In emerging technology. And so Considering all of these factors and and considering Dr. Coggs internal programs and projects throughout the region. We have decided to develop a new, TDM strategic plan. So the mission statement of the regional TDM strategic plan is to provide transportation partners in the Denver region with a framework to improve efficiency, mobility, safety, and safety for travelers of all ages, incomes and abilities by identifying actions that expand multimodal travel choices, reduce traffic congestion, and improve air quality.
So really want to highlight 2 things here. I really want to highlight the equity component of this plan. We worked very extensively with our stakeholders and equity groups to make sure that we were developing this plan in an equitable lens. I also want to highlight that this plan does not operate in a vacuum. So this plan really supports the other, Dr. Clog planning planning products, especially metro vision, regional transportation plan. The active transportation plan, our recent greenhouse gas mitigation action plan. So this TDM plan really works in conjunction with the overall Dr. Cog planning ecosystem and really supports the the themes outlined in metro vision. So this strategic plan is a combination of a total of 18 months of planning work and it was created through several different avenues. So the first avenue was a stakeholder steering committee was developed and that stakeholder steering committee was made up of folks who work in transportation demand management day in and day out. So organizations on that committee included RTD, C dot, our TMA partners, the Regional Air Quality Council, some Dr.
Cog member governments, and as well as advocacy organizations such as Bicycle, Colorado. So those were the folks that we met the most with and the folks that really provided in-depth feedback within throughout this planning process. We also had a larger group called the TDM Consortium and those folks were the folks that their work is maybe not directly involved in TDM and transportation planning, but certainly is tangential to that.
So those were the folks including university partners, economic partners such as business improvement districts, some smaller and more rural Dr. Cog member governments, as well as some additional advocacy and equity groups. So that consortium we met with as well as the stakeholders seering committee. And then in addition to those groups, we also held some focus group feedback sessions. So these sessions were small groups. Made up of about 4 to 5 folks and those were broken up into several different categories. We had a focus group with large employers in the region. We had a focus group, with equity advocates in the region. Again, with bids and economic partners, with mobility operators, with TMAs and with CNOT. So we really wanted to get more, specific questions and feedback with those focus groups. And again, those were, really targeted with those smaller groups. So in addition to that, stakeholder engagement and outreach, we also had a Dr. Cog internal staff workshop in order to kind of go through some potential recommendations and to flush out the plan. And then we also worked with a consultant and so our consultant led research and analytics.
They, produced in existing conditions analysis around existing conditions and transportation demand management services and programs that currently exist in the Dr. Cog region as well as some case studies and then they also developed a strength weaknesses opportunities and threats analysis a return on investment analysis looking at the doctor current Dr. Cog, TDM programs and services and then an equity analysis as well. So again, these are the processes. The stakeholder outreach and engagement and the research that led to the development of this. So these are some regional trends that are consultant as well as Dr. Cogg's staff identified that transportation demand management can really play a key role in addressing throughout our region. And so these factors or these challenges include population growth. Traffic congestion, safety and vision 0. Transit access, ongoing impacts of the COVID. 19 pandemic. And of course innovation and transportation technology. So this kind of relates back to what I mentioned earlier as to why we were doing this plan and why now. And so these were the regional challenges that we identified that, we believe that transportation demand management can really play a key role in solving.
So there are a total of 10 strategic recommendations in the plan and they are intended for Dr. Cog as an organization to lead and implement. So it's really looking at As an organization, what can Dr. Cog do to expand and advance our TDM work? So we looked at Dr. Coggs. Planning work, Dr. Cox's policies, Dr. Coggs TDM services, and really wanted to see how we could move the needle as an organization.
So of course these strategic recommendations will need to be implemented. Alongside our regional partners, but they're really for Dr. Cog as an organization to take the lead on. And so these recommendations fall into 3 categories. Again, those are the planning policy and services categories that I mentioned. So here are the first 5 recommendations. For the sake of time, I won't read through all of them, but I do just want to clarify a few things here. So the first thing I would like to clarify is that a lot of these recommendations are really for further research into what that recommendation is referencing.
So for example, Number 4 here, consider integrating transportation demand management as a requirement to certain projects during the next update to the. Tip policy document. That is not saying that right off the bat we are going to Require a TDM components and tip. And tip projects that is really just let's consider integrating it. Let's do the research. What might that look like? Is that even feasible? So really want to highlight that a lot of these recommendations recommendations are to take the next step and that often involves research. Planning and preparation and it's not that we're going to be doing these things right off the bat. So just wanted to highlight that. So these are, so that is the, one thing that I wanted to clarify here and then, really also just wanted to highlight that these recommendations were really taken into consideration throughout the stakeholder, steering committee and, focus group feedback. So I want to highlight the first recommendation here, prepare a white paper that explores ways to fund transportation, demand management incentive programs.
We heard a lot from our stakeholders and especially our TMA partners that incentive programs are extremely difficult to fund, but they find that when they are able to launch those incentive campaigns that they are extremely effective. So just want to highlight that we did really take into consideration that stakeholder outreach and engagement that feedback and make sure that we incorporated it into these recommendations. So here are recommendations 6 through 10. I would just like to call out to recommendation number 9 here, expand the focus of way to go to include all trips. We have definitely heard and as we all know, after the pandemic, tribal change and travel behavior has really changed especially with the instance of remote work. So this recommendation really came through, through, again, that stakeholder feedback and that research recognizing that a lot of the trips in our region are no longer those peak commute trips. And so we really wanted to find a way to address that. And starting with expanding the focus of way to go to include all of those trips, not just those 9 to 5 commuters was one of the strategic recommendations that came out of that planning work.
I do want to clarify that that also still includes commute trips. I'm just from an equity lens because we do know that there are folks that still go into the workplace physically. There are still folks that drive into work and there are still folks that take transit into work so it is still including commuter trips but it's also including all different types of trips. I do see that there is a hand up. I'm happy to take questions now or, wait till the end. I'm happy to do it either. I can wait till the end. Perfect. Thank you. Great, so I just want to reiterate that the strategic plan has 10 recommendations and those recommendations are really intended for Dr.
Cog as an organization to implement and they were developed through a combination of our stakeholder engagement process. Dr. Kogg, staff internal workshops and work done by our consultant. So that is the plan in a nutshell. And then separate from the plan is our TDM toolkit. So this is a separate document. It is intended to be a living resource for member governments and other TDM stakeholders throughout the region. And, it's really intended to be a public facing document and when we say living document, we also mean it's intended to be able to be updated as new resources in case studies are available, as we engage in that dialogue with our member governments.
So that is the great thing about this TDM toolkit is it will be a continuous process, a continuous conversation with our stakeholders and will hopefully be a really great resource when it comes to implementing TDM strategies. And so you'll see here on the left hand side of the screen, these are the categories, that are included in the TDM toolkit, so really recognizing that TDM encompasses a suite of different strategies. We all know that Dr. Kogg has done some great work on the education outreach and marketing. Of TDM, but really recognizing that TDM is a lot more than just education in that region also includes mobility services, mobility technology, infrastructure, parking management, roadway. Management, public policies. So that is a high level overview of the toolkit. And then with in the toolkit, each strategy, is on one page and that includes a full description of what that strategy is.
It also includes context. So it includes land use context for urban communities, suburban communities and rural communities. It also includes context for transit access. So for communities that have no very low to moderate transit access and for those communities who have moderate to high transit access. It also encompasses several different audiences. So we really wanted to incorporate that all trips. Mentality and so the toolkit has Low to high applicability for audiences such as residents, workers, visitors and students. Really kind of wanted to hit on the fact or the point that, as we all know Denver, really does attract a lot of recreation and a lot of visitors. So we did include visitors. In that toolkit. And of course we included infrastructure as well. So recognizing that all the Dr.
Cod communities are different in terms of land use, transit access and infrastructure, some TDM strategies might be more applicable in some in some jurisdictions versus others. So we've wanted to make sure that the toolkit was broad enough to be useful for all of our member governments, but not super broad that it wasn't useful. So trying to, trying to find that line there and I think we did a great job with that.
And then lastly, just highlighting the equity part of this toolkit we did use FHW a steps methodology for each of the strategies so you will see in the toolkit each of the strategies has several different equity considerations for the implementing agencies to consider. So for the sake of time, will not go through all the strategies but you'll see here on the screen here all the TDM strategies that are currently included in the toolkit and as I mentioned before that this toolkit is a living resource it's intended to evolve so these this list could grow as we look into the future. So we did have a month long public comment period. The public was able to download the draft plan, the draft toolkit and executive summary and an executive summary in Spanish on our social pinpoint site. The public comment period was advertised through social media and email. And so We did receive several comments from member governments from the public at large. And we did here. We did hold a stakeholder steering committee during the public comment period as well. So, you'll see on the left hand side of the screen just a screen grab of our social pinpoint site.
There were 2 specific questions that folks could answer as well as general feedback. Just wanted to run through really quickly some highlights of what we heard from public comments. And what we heard the most of. So we did hear that, In regards to the TDM toolkit, there was an intelligent transportation systems strategy as a standalone strategy and we did hear a lot from our stakeholders that it's more of a TDM supportive strategy and not necessarily a standalone strategy. So we did remove that as a standalone strategy in the toolkit and then weaved ITS components throughout other TDM strategies to really make that more of a supportive strategy. So that's just one example. We also heard a lot of feedback about how important telework and flexible schedules are as a TDM strategy in the draft toolkit we had that again more woven throughout TDM strategies but after stakeholder and public comment we decided to make that a standalone strategy.
So you will see in the current version that it is a standalone TDM strategy. And then we also heard several comments on defining equity, looking at that transit oriented. Development and mobility hubs, and then of course around concerns around transit, safety, and ridership. So all this is to say that the plan and toolkit that we're on social pinpoint that those drafts were updated based on these public comments and stakeholder feedback received during that month long public comment period. So looking ahead and something that I think, is really great about TDM in general and this plan specifically is that, it encompasses and supports all the work that we do here at Dr. Cog Cross Divisionally. So not only will it support other plans. And reports coming out of our transportation and planning and operations division but also will support the work of our communications and marketing division, our way to go team, as well as our regional planning and development.
Really just want to end with that. This regional TDM strategic plan really supports those 5 themes of the Metro vision. And really looking forward to this collaboration across different divisions with Dr. Cog as well as our state regional and local transportation partners. Director Sanchez. So with that, I have a proposed motion on the screen, but also happy to answer any questions.
Thank you. I appreciate this presentation. It's a lot of information. And you do a really great job just, including. Really almost every entity. I understand that the senior population is a separate sort of topic and not necessarily included in this discussion, but we do have older residents who still work. And still need to get to their you know their doctor the grocery store and other places. I guess I always wonder how do we incorporate that into this because we we call out the safe school routes and we know that a lot of those students are using some of these. Which then also over, comes some of the availability and on some of it for Flexoride and on-demand.
That the seniors might be using. Is there a way to sort of incorporate? Because this is such a large plan. How do we make sure that our seniors are still able to get towards where they need to go and some of the software and the education and all of that is still including them. Because their ability may not necessarily be the same as what this general plan might include. And I might not be clear on this because it's it's a separate topic, but it's the same topic. I guess I look to you for that. How do we include that or incorporated so that we know that it's included? Yeah, absolutely. And I think that definitely came up in discussions in the stakeholders steering committee.
I will do my best to answer it and then I'm happy to turn it over to other folks at Dr. Cog. It's a feel so. But, so I would say that of course the triple A division at Dr. Cog really really supports those seniors in those folks and their mobility challenges in getting them to doctors appointments and things like that so I would go back to the way that this TDM plan fits in as a piece of the puzzle of, of Dr. Koggs planning products and services. And, but I do think, yes, there is definitely room to kind of further explore, cross-divisional work with AAA, with Dr. Mac, and so. That would be my answer to that.
And I do see Jacob has a hand up, so I turn it over to him. Check it, check it. Yeah, thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you, Kaylee. Kaylee is absolutely right. Let me just add a couple things to amplify a little bit. One is that we've learned in transportation planning that a plan like this, the TDM strategic plan that might be geared towards or somewhat targeted towards certain strategies for certain populations actually when you do those things can have an often does have a broader applicability to other populations as well. And as Kayley said, I think, you know, there are many components. There are things in here that can directly help seniors. But in addition to the great work of the TDM strategic plan and the great work of our area agency on aging.
A lot of the work that our agency does and other partners as well, you know, in your finance and budget committee report, talked about the human service transportation projects and those sorts of things is strategies and services geared specifically towards older adults, travel training, helping folks access rides who maybe don't have a smartphone or can't use that kind of technology for ride sharing or those sorts of things. So there's a lot out there. So it's a really good question. And it really takes all of these efforts and all these plans to help us do that. Thank you. And I appreciate that Jacob and thank you, Caley. I think it is a very. Encompassing all encompassing plan. I always just want to make sure that we do specifically call out our seniors some of the things and I know this would also be a language barrier with some of the software programming.
And I know this would also be a language barrier with some of the software programming. It doesn't always come through when they're trying to book a ride AM PM. I've heard a lot about this lately with our senior population especially and so while we don't necessarily call out that particular demographic in this particular plan. If there was a way to just include them in it to make sure that we all understood that it was a part of it. A A is doing an incredible job with what they're doing and we look at all of that. The funding is there. We're supporting those groups, but it's not called out specifically here, which is the only part that I guess.
Stresses me out a little bit because we do call out some of the other groups like I said the safe schools route and in the workforce so I guess that's the only place that I get stuck on this, but I appreciate the work. It's a great presentation, a lot of information that you compiled in a very you know, specific presentation here. So I appreciate the work and I don't want to take away from that at all. Thank you, Director. Other questions, comments? Mr. Rex. So, Chairman, thank you very much and Director Sanger and thank you for your continued support of our older adult community in our region. You're you've been you've been wonderful through the years and we appreciate your message. Listen, I I had a couple things real quick. One first of all I want to thank Obviously staff at Dr. Cog as well as staff in your communities as well as staff and our transportation, our 8 transportation management associations throughout the region. In putting this plan together, it's a lot of work, tremendous amount of outreach that was done in this.
So Kayley, you and others that worked on this, thank you also very much. I did want to drop, your attention to the toolkit itself. It is, is put together as a resource for your staff. Right, and, so I hope you get an opportunity to review that. Now I will tell you that some of the suggestions that are in there, you know we didn't take a comprehensive deep dive into those but I hope you come away from like looking at that that it's thought provoking. And, and if there are, you know, staff within. Well, you and or your staff. Have interest in any of those. So suggested. Implementation strategies to please just reach out to Dr. Cogg. We would help. We would love to help. Your staff and getting to where it is you want to be as a as a local community.
So I, I just want to make sure you are aware of that tool. Get it's pretty cool. And we do have, there are examples in there, at least one example per strategy. That kind of gives you a flare and some of those are state, some of those are more national, but anyway, I just, I'll leave it there. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Okay, thank you. Director Kern, you had had your hand up, wanna be sure, if you saw a comment that you had that opportunity, if not no worries. Thank you. I appreciate it and thank you for the welcome. I appreciate you letting me join you all of you. Absolutely. It's my privilege actually. I, I was curious and perhaps it's one of them is not, this is not the protect mode, the perfect modality for it, but one, what was the kind of participation in the the public comment. I think we're running into that here locally where we talk about the public engagement and we've realized that we had a really small percentage and needed to revisit our method for engaging the public to better survey.
And I wasn't sure because nothing talks about the amount or the number of people who participated and then the second one, only 2, so I won't bombard you too much, is I don't see anything in here to help us create a conversation around safety. Whether that's parking safety for vehicles and bicycles, there's theft issues, but there's also personal safety. Concerns for people like while they're waiting to get off off and on the public transportation. I know that that's something, especially with the senior communities we're just discussing that I would kind of like to help that be in the forefront of most communities as we talk about public transportation.
Thank you. Yeah, no, thank you for the question and I see Mr. Rex has his hand up so I'll let him go first. Well, no, I just gonna say thank you for the questions and appreciate you being here. We haven't had a chance to meet yet, so I'm looking forward to that. Okay. I will tell you, I wish you were here last month. We had a presentation on, basically safety, related to active transportation. So So bicycles, pedestrians, those types of things. So I would encourage you to go back and just watch the video associated with that. Thanks a great idea. Said yeah, but what you've seen the race is it's it's safety and security right of various systems in the like and I think that's a legitimate point we will be talking a little later in this meeting about our regional vision 0, program is some of the updates what we're planning on doing associated with that. But safety is out first and foremost on our minds and it always has been, you know, this board has been quite clear about the importance of our system being as safe as possible.
So. Yeah, I'll just leave it there, but I'd be happy to, you know, offline to have more conversations with you about it. I thank you, Doctor Sandra. Thank you. Well, if there were no other questions, I was actually just gonna move to it to have the resolution. Fantastic. Do we have a second? Second. Second. Second. Do we have a second? After Harrison. Okay, thank you very much. With the hands that I saw. Alright. Bye. Hi. Hi. Aye. Hi. So, any further discussion? All in favor, I. Any opposed nay? And any abstention. Right. Thank you very much. We will move ahead. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you for the presentation. We appreciate it. Thanks for being here tonight. Okay, moving ahead. Next informational item is update on taking action on regional vision 0 plan and that's Emily Klein filter planner with transformation planning and operations. Emily, thanks for being here tonight. Okay. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Hopefully everybody can see my screen all right. I'm actually going to. We can. Let me move it over. Hello. Well, sorry about this. Where? Alright, well good evening everybody. My name is Emily Climb filter.
I'm the safety regional vision 0 planner here at Dr. Cog. Tonight I'm going to be giving you a just a little informational briefing, and update on the strategic update work to our taking action on regional vision 0 plan. So just a little information. I know that I met with you back at probably, I think it was beginning of this year now maybe. And. Informed you all that we were going to be taking on this work because of a couple of reasons. You know, frankly the The trends are not moving in the direction that we want them to. People are unfortunately still unsafe on our roadways in many ways. And so we are taking an another look at the strategies and. Actions that we've identified. And making sure that they're aligned with the national best strategies. Such as the same system approach. And then as many of you are probably familiar with, there's been a lot more funding come through the pipeline from the bipartisan infrastructure law and so looking at how ways to make sure that that informs our work that we're doing.
And then lastly, just hearing from our communities that this needs to. Be more aligned with everybody's priorities and values in the region. So we decided to take on that update work and over the last 12 months or maybe a little more like 10. We really took a deeper look at the vision 0 taking action on regional vision 0 plan and When I mentioned that it was strategic, the idea here is that we were not breaking down and updating this entire plan.
You know, this was just adopted by you all in 2020. So it's it's a little too soon to be updating. So it's it's a little too soon to be updating it just yet. So instead we were taking a look at chapter 6, which is the implementation plan. So instead, we were taking a look at chapter 6, which is the implementation plan, and really giving that more of a refresh. But that is just a really great complimentary tool to the tool kit and we are excited about having it finally up and live for the public to be able to use it as a really great resource for folks to be able to break down the crash profiles in their region. So like I mentioned, we have been going through an update, sort of Sorry, we've been going through an update over the last year and so this is sort of a breakdown of the structure in which we have been doing that it started at first just reviewing the sort of status of where we're at on our current actions.
We had identified and then over the last 8 or so months we did. Each month we would take on one of the 6 objectives and break down the different actions and we would take a look at the sort of implementation difficulty and the impact of them. And follow up with those with surveys as well. To get continued feedback. And then finally in October, we hosted an in person workshop where I got to meet some of you all for the first time in person. Or some of your staff. And, and we really use that time to break down what were the the biggest priorities for us to be focusing on as well as what are the timelines for us to be. Putting these different actions in. So are they near term, midterm or long term? As far as when we should be, addressing them because you know we only have so much capacity and so much funding at some you know right now so And then lastly, after that, workshop, we took that feedback and have been revising the document and we are it's currently in the hands of our communication and marketing team right now to do those revisions and we expect to have public comment period starting in early January that will go out for 30 days.
It'll be very similar to the one that Kaylee put out for her TDM plan in the sense that, you know, we'll be doing social media and emails to get the word out and also using a social pinpoint site for folks to provide feedback. On those strategic parts of the plan that we have updated. And so that will be out for 30 days and then after that we will just have the final revisions to make to this work and then bring it back to you all in the I think it's March that we aim to be coming back to you all for approval. So like I mentioned, that prioritization workshop, was really useful and helped Help me and I think everybody who participated, feel like we were better on the same page and I wanted to share with you some of the key takeaways as well as. Really the draft idea of what we are putting forward in that public comment period of our proposed actions for the immediate actions as well as ones that we've completed and ongoing.
And so. Like I mentioned, the workshop, we really notice that. The number one thing to have success in any of the work that we do, is collaboration. And so especially in order to make sure that these actions are implemented sustainably. If they need to be done that way, then we have to make sure we're in our collaborating with you all and with our other stakeholders and partner agencies. Another key takeaway was that we don't need to reinvent the wheel. We, should really be taking advantage of existing programs or policies that are maybe in place and seeing how we can enhance those or create tools or other things that may complement the ones that are already in place. Something that you may may know well or may not know at all but crash data is really really important to this but we understand that unfortunately it's a big challenge for the region when we start looking at crash data.
On a regional level. And so addressing that is something that's top of mind that's why we have hired. A staff person who is, that is his full-time job is, is really seeing how we can address and to try and find a solution to that. Challenge. But as long as we have that challenge, it's gonna be something that we will just need to be aware of. And then lastly, something that just was helpful for myself and I think as well for our partners is to make sure that I'm there's good clarity and transparency from Dr. Cog on what is the status of the different actions and things that we're doing.
Over the years so that when we're able to ask folks to basically Tell us what is an ongoing action that they're able to reflect what they feel is the truth and we feel as though they're correct with that. So That was something that was a good takeaway for me to learn. That we maybe need to be a little bit more transparent about where we're at with everything. But moving forward, I wanted to highlight some of the. Some of the main. Highlights from the previous action plan. These are some actions that we had identified that we have successfully completed since the adoption of the plan in 20. So there are again 6 objectives that we have identified and so I haven't listed them out here for you, but I will in a leader slide you'll see them. But objective 3 is looking at designing and retrofitting roadways to prioritize safety. And this is a really. He objective for us because we know that the infrastructure is a is a big player in safety and so we took on the creation of the complete streets toolkit for the Dr.
Cog region and completed that in 2021 and then this year we also completed a priority, and analysis of that complete streets network, which we think is a really useful tool to help us identify. Corridors in the region that are really prime for investing funds to improve the accessibility and safety and mobility for all roadway users. Another really exciting success story from the Division 0 program, in the last couple of years is our most recent success story, which is the vision 0 story map that I mentioned. So this is a virtual tool. Some of you may not know what story map means. It's basically just a website for you to be able to explore the the crash data trends in the Dr. Cog region. So as you're all aware, Dr. Kog is a very, very diverse land use type and we cover a lot a lot of, a lot of land, frankly. And so we understand that when you're analyzing the crashes in some way that's more urban, the types of crashes that are occurring, the users that are involved are going to be different when you're looking at other more maybe rural area types in the region.
And so that's what we did here is we break down the crashes based on our 4 area types in the Dr. Cog region. As you see here, you got, sorry, it's maybe a little blurry, but there's urban suburban rural and limited access highways. And then we also have behavior profiles that we break down and, this is just a really new and exciting tool that we're really proud of. Putting out to the public and we also are excited to have it be sort of a living resource that as more data or sorry as data becomes available or more frequently and more more consistently, then we'll be able to update this with trends that are, more up to date. Another success that we wanted to highlight was in line with our objective 6, which is increasing support for legislation policies and practices that focus on safety at all levels. This is in relation to Senate Bill 23200 that allows for local agencies the ability to use.
Safety cameras as an enforcement technique including. For red light running and speeding. And so we are actually. Yes, sorry. And so we're really, excited to see the passing of that Senate bill and to help our local member governments. Try and deploy the use of that in a in a manner that make sure that it's not impactful in a in a harmful way to any sort of populations by any means. So next I wanted to cover some of the actions that we had from the previous vision 0 action plan that are gonna be following or carrying over into the next plan that we feel as though we have been working on this currently.
And we are going to continue working on these actions. And so the first that I wanted to highlight, the briefly is just the monthly regional vision 0 working group. We are looking at maybe making it bi-monthly instead of monthly just because We know that people have a lot on their plate. And we want to make sure that people are getting the best use of their time when they come to those meetings. And we're also exploring ways for that group to actually be a part of the ones who help implement this plan. That's really how we see that vision 0 work group. More thing into in the future.
And other action we will continue to work on is our participation in the statewide, traffic records advisory committee for Colorado or Strac. That's really important to the data work that we have and I know that myself or other folks who are involved in the data work will continue to be involved in that. And in that same sort of node, we will continue our work, exploring the creation of a regional regional crash data consortium and looking at inventory the needs of the region as well as trying to identify solutions. Another thing that we will continue doing is sharing information on funding opportunities through all of our different, ways that we can connect with you all. And then lastly, we will continue to reevaluate our legislative priorities. As new safety research arises. So next I wanted to go over maybe some of these are new. Some of these might not be new. They may be carrying over from the previous plan.
But I wanted to just highlight for each of the objectives I was going to go through one immediate action that we've identified that we in 2,024 are going to. You know, hit the ground running to identify ways to. Get this implemented in the next 0 to 2 years. That's the timeframe that we've given ourselves for these immediate actions. And so the first action is for our objective number one, which is to improve collaboration between allied agencies. And so we this is really listening to you all and understanding that. There's a lot of safety issues that are going on in the region, but dangerous behavior is behind the wheel, are one that we really want to dig a little deeper on and bring folks together. And so we're looking at the convening of regular safety meetings of folks in this transportation safety space and folks who are maybe not normally in the transportation safety space but do some in some way interact with people who may be victims of a traffic crash.
So maybe it's health professionals or. Or other advocacy or community organizations, bringing them all to the table to try and understand. A little deeper and, and maybe share best practices or solutions that we found in our communities. So next up is looking at objective 2 to increase. Awareness and adoption of vision 0. This one. I just actually before I move on to this one I wanna note that you'll you'll see that some of these have. Of much more difficulty to implement than others.
And so we have identified that more in the plan when you actually see it all on one in one document. But right now here I just wanted to call out for you some Quick little highlights. So another one, this one is a much easier task for us to complete, but updating our Vision 0 web page to include resources and information. On the safe systems approach as well as on our progress towards vision 0 in the region. For objective 3 to design and retrofit roadways to prioritize safety. We are exploring the development of a quick build toolkit. For member governments to help provide guidance on the design and implementation of these quick to deliver and adjustable traffic measures that improve safety, especially focusing on the regional high and dream network. You know, we hear that there's, a need for things on the ground now, but not always. Resources on how to do that the best way and how to communicate that with our, with, just the general public. On what we're doing when a quick build project comes in the ground and so I think that this is something we heard from folks that would be of great use.
And then for improving data collection and reporting objective 4. We will, this is something that's actually a continued action, but it's something that we will continue to do every. 3 to 5 years, but we will initiate in the next year to 2 years. Which is. Basically, the regional visions, your story map that you saw. We will redo that analysis work so that we can get a more up to date, understanding of those high risk actions and crash profiles for the region.
For objective 5 to increase funding and resources, We are exploring modifying the transportation improvement program or TIP, criteria to prioritize safety projects on the regional high injury network. This one is pretty self-explanatory, but it's just the exploration of us highlighting. Other criteria so that we can make sure that projects are always emphasizing safety. And are on the Hyundry network. And then lastly, for objective 6. We are in for increasing support for legislation policies and practices that focus on safety at all levels. There was a really, really high interest in looking at the support of legislation to increase funding and evaluate real allocation of existing funding to safety projects so that we have a reliable dedicated stream of funding. I think that goes without saying. It's understood that we need more money.
There's never enough money for this work and. Folks really would like to rather than just grabbing it every little bit that we can find. We'd like to try and go to the source and and see if there's a way to advocate and. Make legislation so that there is a true sustainable pool of funding for safety. So just a reminder then we will be going to I this is a little bit out of date I put this together about a week ago and unfortunately things got a little bit behind track but our thirty-day public review period will be starting in January looking to start that January tenth hopefully so that's second week once everybody is kind of Shaking off all the holiday.
You know, laziness or whatnot and we're gonna hopefully folks will be able to. Actually provide some feedback to that. And then lastly, we will be coming to TAC in RTC in February then March and then I hope to see you all again in March for the final approval of this. Update work. And I think that is it that I have for you tonight.
And I'm here for any questions. Thank you very much. Do we have any questions or comments from the? Board. Treasure Levy. Hey, Eric. There we go. Yeah, no, thank you. Just a couple. You know, on the legislative. Support that we might get behind and this didn't come up in the legislative priorities document I don't believe but I think there may be some legislation. To, require, that, classes, for, youth, getting the first time license, I believe that I've heard that that might be coming forward and that it would be.
Including bicycle safety bicycle awareness or components and Yeah. Correct. Correct. Yeah, director, you're freezing up. Okay. Okay, good. I thought that was just my computer. Okay. Oh, okay. There we go, let me turn my camera off. And see if that helps. That should help, yup. Yeah, on the Yeah, great. No, I wondered and I, I think this was brought up at a previous meeting. I might have been director Speer that brought it up about having a tips set aside for vision 0 implementation. And whether, you know, whether that might be a more direct way to get at the. The funding for vision 0 implementation projects. Yeah, thank you so much, Dr. Levy. That actually is another one of the actions that we have identified. In this plan. So is the exploration of a, of a regional vision 0 tip set aside. So I know that that's Top of mind for folks is how can we create a sustainable pool of funding that's large enough to to actually you know fund the projects that we want to fund too.
Ron, I see your hand. I'm sorry. That's Director Conklin. No, Ron Papstore, please. Good to see you. Hopefully you're feeling well. Hi, I am feeling much better this week. Thank you. Thank you, Chair Conklin. Director Levy, I did just wanted to point out since you, asked the question about the state legislative policy, the board just approved earlier this evening. On page 7 of the document that was in your packet, there actually is a statement about increasing funding for a number of transportation priorities including improving safety.
So certainly I think the board in the past and in this legislative party paper has recognized that. Obviously, we haven't brought forward for adoption the update to the vision 0, plan, but I think that does put a little bit more flavor on the general statement that's in the legislative policy document and as Emily correctly pointed out, we do anticipate with your approval at least exploring as we develop with your approval, at least exploring as we develop the next translation improvement program, at least exploring as we develop the next translation improvement program policy document for the next 4 year tip process. Which, believe it or not, will kick off in just a short couple of years. We do want to explore with partners and with all of you opportunities to sort of maybe focus some of those resources on specific more specifically toward safety. It's always been a priority element in our tip process, but see if there are ways to put even more emphasis on that.
Great, thank you, Director Harrison. Thank you and very good job putting all this together. I know it's a lot work. Is and has there been any sort of study or correlation between increase insurance costs for drivers, in Colorado. Versus safety issues and crashes etc. going down going up The way I, and why I ask, and I'm there, I'm sure there probably is, but why I asked is sort for the citizens to understand by making these investments where over here this is gonna have a direct correlation at least from a financial perspective obviously safety is number one but from a financial perspective as everybody gets motivated by that of their insurance costs. Coming down. Have we done studies on that in the last say 5 years or before? That's a great question.
And I can tell you that we have not done anything at least since I've been on board in the last 2 years. But I know that Skylar McKinney over at for would probably be a good contact to reach out to and have some good inside on all that. And he and I could team up to. To look more into that, absolutely. Yeah, I think that might be something to take a look at and the other thing I at least for Folks old enough like myself, we had drivers that funded. At the school district level and I know that's probably changed a lot dramatically. Is there, are we aware of any sort of programs like that that's still at the school district level or is they all private? And the, you know, the. The the kid and the parents are up to going, you know, their responsibility to go reach out to a private. School to do all their work. Good the license? Is that how it works now? You know, I'm not familiar a hundred percent with the process.
At least in Colorado. I do know that C. Dot has as a part of their advancing transportation safety. Program that they're working on right now. They are absolutely looking at More education around. Or yes, just drivers that in general. So I know that they're has been conversations around it. I'm not totally familiar with it. We do have at least 2 actions noted around sort of school and safe routes to schools, education and advocacy work with. There's With students and I think that, there's, opportunity for that to be fit in there. Good. And then, yeah, at the other level, just reducing the behaviors.
Obviously, we all experience. Crazy drivers out there that cut people that cut us off or this or that. And obviously we've seen that increase dramatically. So. You try to deal with the younger population, but also the population that's in the 20, s 40, 30, s and 40 year olds who for whatever reason. Are not concerned about other people's safety. Is there any studies or any information that you've heard or seen in regard to how or why that is at a high level why that's happening maybe more so or less.
You know, I don't have any high level sort of information. I can tell you when kinda coming back to your insurance. Thought is that you know young males do tend to have the highest rates of insurance. And so that's that correlation. I don't really know what else that says. That gets a little bit more into the psychology of trans transportation planning than I'm, really an expert at, but I have been. Trying to understand a little bit more about why It seems as though we are. Shifting in a direction that is very individualistic in the way of thinking and it's not a healthy way of course and so there's been a lot of A lot of research that I'm trying to look into about traffic safety culture and how can we try and change that and and shift the way folks are thinking.
Hmm. And I think that, the one thing that I, the biggest takeaway for me is that you know, it's our societal influences are multi layered and so it's understanding how we can continue to deliver these messages around safety at different layers in which people interact with people. So it may not just be an advertisement or an ad campaign, but it's also going into the schools or it's also going into the workplace. And it's also talking to your teacher, you know, your your friends and your family members and it's all those different layers in which. We sort of have those different ways that we can impact safety. That I'm learning more about, but it's yeah, it's a very psychological thing that's Not well understood just yet. And that's where the funding definitely help in that area to do that. So I appreciate everything. Thank you for answering my questions. Absolutely. I will make my editorial comment that I make often Emily's heard me say this before that I think the the change in driver's end not being something that lots of people were having took away that shared experience that shared knowledge base of everybody kind of knowing what was going on at least of a generation.
And the other thing is we've taken away predictability. A lot of the old rules of the road and knowing what the light cycles would be and knowing, you know, just how things function. I think as we're doing things now to hopefully long-term make things safer, I think we're probably going to have a really interesting period that that lack of predictability may cause some issues. And a way my editorial comment, Emily, thank you very much. We really appreciate the presentation. Yes, thank you very much. Absolute great information or briefing. Thank you for your time tonight. Move on. Move on to our next informational briefing, which is sure to be interesting.
The review of the special session and a preview of the 2024 legislative session, Rich Morrow, you're back. And Ed, which is here and Jen Castle. So thank you all for being here. You Yes, Yes, thank you, Mr. Chair, and I think I will just. Introduce our contract lobbyists at Badich and Jennifer Castle. And turn it over to them and and maybe see first if Doug has any comments. As well. Mr. Chairman, and thank you, Rich. I actually don't, but we thought it'd be a good idea, just to give. Give you all kind of a debrief on the special session because I'm not quite sure I fully understand exactly what happened in the session, but also give you kind of a preview of going into this, what we. All know is gonna be a very busy schedule as session again, most notably around, housing land use transportation that Nexus.
So please Ed Jen, take it away. Alright, thank you everybody. Good evening. Happy holidays. Jumping right in here. So Jennifer and I will give you a brief summary of what happened a month ago during the special session. And then talk a little bit about what's likely to come up in 2024 at this point. We know some things that will be coming down the pike in 2024, but it's more concepts. Then specifics for 2024. But just to review what happened last month, the legislature was in session for 4 days the governor is the one who can call the special session and dictate the agenda. The governor called everybody into special session they ended up passing 3 bills of note. Summarize here. First one is the property tax relief.
After the failure of prop HH, the governor wanted to do something. To try and address the rising home values and trying, mitigate the resulting property tax increases that people will be paying in 2024. So the legislature passed. A bill that will, slightly reduce the residential assessment rate. And remember the residential assessment rate is basically that share of your house or your lodging property where you live. That share of your house that's subject to taxation. So really, you were only going to pay 6.7 6 5% of your house for subject to tax. Now it's down to 6.7%. In addition to that. There is a flat value exemption at $55,000 for each residential property.
So. That obviously is a much bigger impact if you live in a very much lower income community. There are some communities. Way out in eastern Colorado where the houses aren't all that expensive and you take $55,000 out of the value. And make it not subject to tax, that's a big deal. It's an assist here in town where houses are much much larger. The much more valuable. The deadlines for the local governments calculate their mill levies have been moved back and all of these things only apply to the 2,023 tax year when your taxes are paid in 2024 so it's just a one year change and then the legislature is directed to come up with the next plan.
And they will do that through the next bill. That was passed. They created a property tax task force, which is a 19 member task force. You have representatives from local governments, statewide organizations. There's an assessor, some county commissioners, the mayor of Broomfield is on there for legislators, business, folks. They had their first meeting today. Once the new year rolls around, they're going to be meeting every 2 weeks. Until March fifteenth. And they are to report back to the legislature on possible property tax modifications.
Their charge is not limited to statutory measures. They can come back and say we recommend I'm just gonna make this up modifying something from the special session carrying it forward another year and we recommend the legislature consider putting a constitutional measure on the ballot. They are pretty open-ended in what they can recommend back to the legislature. One other bill we just wanted to mention, Tabor is always of interest to everybody. A year ago, we all got checks sent to our homes.
This year they're not going to send checks out, but they did make the Tabor refunds flat. For 2023 so when you fill out your 2023 taxes on April fourteenth of 2024 you will have an automatic credit of $800 per person. That will be your TABER refund for 2023. So that's kind of a brief summary of what happened in the special session. I will turn it over to Jen now. Oh yeah, a couple of other things that were raised, but not addressed in the special session. There was no no nonresidential property tax relief was not part of the special session so that whole issue has to wait until the regular session.
And then the senior homestead exemption, which was in making it portable. Was included in prop HH, but this was not included in the special session. So the senior homestead exemption will continue on. There just haven't been any changes. To it adopted yet. But again, that can come up in the 2024 session. Thank you. Ed. Good evening, everyone. So to continue on and discuss a little bit about what we expect. For the 2024 session and of course this is certainly not an exhaustive list of all legislation that we expect or all issues to come up or whatnot. But certainly we are aware of some things that are coming to set the stage a little bit just to give, you know, kind of refresh everyone's memory of what the composition of the legislature looks like. The general assembly is going to start January tenth this year. It starts a little bit later. It's a Wednesday. It's gonna go 120 days per the constitution so they can break before May eighth, but they most likely will not. And then the the composition you can see the break down in the house in the Senate these are not changing from the 2023 session so we will continue to have a super majority in the house and close to a super majority in the Senate and close to a super majority in the Senate.
And close to a super majority in the Senate. I mean, the governor is a Democrat, so we are operating under the Democratic trifecta. We continue to have more and more diversity down at the Capitol. That's the most diverse legislature that we have seen. And then wanna note that we do have 3 new members of the legislature that, that are going to be brand new in 2024 and you know this has happened. Because of certain vacancies that have popped up. We, some of you may have heard that recently within the past couple of weeks, I think the most recent one was yesterday or a couple days ago. There have been a couple of house members that have resigned. So I'm at it so we're going to see 2 brand new members that have not even been announced. As of yet that are gonna come into the 24 session. Also, I mean, we still have the 34 new members that we saw after the election of 2022. And they're going to be entering their second year.
And so they'll you know they'll have some experience under their belts and they they kind of know a little bit more of what to expect, no deadlines, those kind of things. But still, you know, still fresh to the process. And, you know, having those 34 new members, you know, we, and I always like to say it's certainly can be a challenge that is a third of the legislature. But really we like to see it as an opportunity. You know, to engage with legislators to get to know them to really talk. Through a lot of Dr. C issues with them as well. So. That's that's the makeup. Some themes and these are themes that, you know, we've seen over the past couple of sessions. Social justice issues continue to be a main theme that we're seeing.
And that certainly resonates more in the house than it does in the Senate. There has been some partisan discourse, you know, what, and of course did not mention from the special session is that there was there were a lot of disagreements. You know, to put it in a polite way, but you know both both parties in both chambers. Some of which some of whom excuse me behave badly So we are going to see a lot of discourse coming into this special and coming into the session. Of course it is going to be an election year in 2024 but considering that you had members of the same party suing each other earlier this summer that kind of sets the tone a little bit as things move forward for 2024 so we expect some things to not be Pleasant, I suppose if you will. And then kind of continuing on with that theme of it being an election year, we're going to see a lot of party line votes, which we did see in 2,023. There were there were some you know some instances where some legislators did peel off from their parties and and cross to you know to join the other side but I imagine that will be it will be more limited here in the 2024 session.
Some of the issue areas where we expect some some focus, certainly the state budget, the state budget this year is not going to be as generous or flush as it has been the last few years. The federal COVID relief dollars are basically exhausted. The state is constrained by its table limit that can't that's per the constitution. We continue to have Tabor refunds. Great time to be a taxpayer because you're gonna continue to have Taber refunds great time to be a taxpayer because you're gonna continue to get refunds for a few years but the state's budget will be constrained. There are more and more tax credits that are being suggested. If the state doesn't have the outright money to spend on something, you can set up something as a tax credit and it doesn't take money away from the rest of the state budget, it just reduces the TABLE refund.
So we'll see tax credits and low income housing, historic preservation and commercial building conversion into housing. Last few years we've seen a strong focus on renters rights. That is the ability, restricting when people can, evict, renters and other things like that. There will be bills to make the senior homestead exemption portable. We've seen those in the last few years. My guess is they will have a very strong chance of passing this year. As was mentioned before, there's a focus on pedestrian safety and there will be a bill that's coming out of the interim committee on a vulnerable road users. So anybody who owns a car or truck that is not a very light car will pay new fee That would go to a Tabor Enterprise. I'm raised about 20 million and the money would go back to. The kind of the local governments where the fee came from for pedestrian safety improvements.
This would be limited to the 11 largest, most populous counties in Colorado. That bill will be introduced. And then, of course, as Jen said, there'll be a number of messaging bills around guns, rent control, and so on that are kind of put out there sometimes they know they're gonna pass sometimes they know they're not gonna pass but they just want to get people on the record. Thank you, Ed.
And then of course we've got the governor's land use proposal, proposal bills. Yeah. With the defeat of his big land use affordable housing, Bill. 2 13, which I know most of us remember that that conversation from last legislative session. The governor has taken a new tactic. This, session, he is planning on breaking up that bill into into smaller pieces. He's gonna focus on 3 main areas, those listed here on the screen. And he's doing a lot more stakeholder engagement. He is reaching out to local governments, to other stakeholders as well, to, really, you know, get some feedback.
Now I think it can be said that there is still a lot. To be discussed around all 3 of these bills, especially as it relates to potential. Mandates. And I hate to use the M word, but I know we're all a little bit. You know hesitant with that but there are there are some things that some conversations that need to that need to happen around this and I know details are still being fleshed out. I haven't seen bill drafts on these bills as of yet, but again as I mentioned the the governor's office and this the legislators who are running these bills are doing some great stakeholder work. So the first bill at the governor is going to focus on strategic growth so he's planning on introducing a bill that's really going to try to align the state with regional and local housing plans while trying to be able to plan for, you know, water mitigation, water usage, displacement, those kind of things as it relates to developing comprehensive plans, you know, for local governments and for, regions.
And then the accessory dwelling units bill or 80 use. Essentially they're going to create a program that will likely be an opt in where local governments can opt into the program and if a local government does opt in and they are then they have access to certain financing. The from what I have seen so far that financing is going to is gonna look at 2 different things. One, there's going to be some. Incentives for home owners to build a to use. And then there's also going to be some incentives to local governments to reduce certain restrictions, zoning requirements. You know reduce tap fees or certain other fees that come along with building need to use and provide those incentives to local governments. So there's a big financing piece to the ADU Bill. And then the last bill, which really is still being fleshed out.
Dr. Cock has certainly been a main stakeholder in this bill and we're continuing to have conversations with the governor's office and with legislators on this one this is the TOC bill the transit oriented communities bill which is aiming to increase density in urban centers and neighborhood centers. And kind of creating a slate of certain strategies. For local governments to, you know, to adopt. To try to really build more housing around transit areas whether that transit is you know perhaps it could be RTD it could be you know buses it could be It'd be anything. The governor's office has committed to Sending additional dollars to transit so that transit can also be further developed. In this so that there's reliable and affordable transit options for these communities that are building housing or that have housing currently in place.
So again, this is kind of the governor's big strategy. He is dedicating a lot of dollars to this as Ed mentioned most of this is going to be in in the with tax credits. I believe he's putting 10 million into strategic growth, accessory dwelling units, I believe has 16 to 18 million attached to it and the TOC says about 65 million I believe and they're going to expand the light tech. Tax credit and then create a sub tax credit within LYTAC that is going to be focused specifically on transit. Hmm. So there will be some, some dollars that go to, you know, these 3 main proposals. I will know that these are not going to be all the housing land use bills that we will see. And there is going to be others. Probably some that will do other things that 2 13 did from last year as well as maybe create some new strategies or ideas. For housing as well too. So housing is going to be a big issue for 24, but we do know these are the governor's main focuses for the 23 session. And did did I hear? Did somebody have a question? I thought I had heard somebody.
Come off me. We're happy to keep going, but I didn't wanna interrupt anyone. So Chair Cohen, I didn't know if. I would say keep going. Anyone? Okay, great. One of the one of the other major priorities for working on and Jennifer and Rich and I started working on this. I think last March. Is trying to get an increase in the state funding for senior services line item. So the the board talked. Maybe an hour ago about the importance of keeping seniors in their homes and providing senior services. The state funding for senior services line item has not changed since fiscal year, 1819. Now remember we had the pandemic in there that upset the whole budget apple cart.
But we have been, we're doing a lot of advocacy over the summer. Meeting with JBC members, meeting with their staff on multiple occasions. And our request is a 5 million dollar increase. Right now that line item gets I think about 18.5 million dollars so this would be a significant increase. And as I said earlier, the budget is not rosy this year. So 5 million is a stretch, but that's our goal. And the figure setting for this will likely be in February. So that's what we're working towards. And with that, I think Jennifer, if I'm not mistaken, did we have more? Oh! Yeah, we have just kind of a looking at head. Slide just to talk a little bit about. You know, Kind of what we expect not only the session but moving forward and just kind of some things that are hanging above our heads again, kind of this increased discord in the legislature. How is how is that going to play out this year? We've already had those 2 legislators who have resigned specifically citing one of one of whom side low pay but both of whom cited that it's It's just kind of a toxic and I put that in quotes, environment at the capital.
So what, you know, what does that look like? We continue to see the rise of advocacy organizations down at the Capitol. You know, certainly which can be a great thing. But oftentimes they are not the ones that have to implement certain programs or that have to worry about funding for certain programs. So, you know, certainly trying to advocate on behalf of local governments, regional entities like Dr. Cog, is becoming a little bit more challenging. It's not, you know, it's not. As sexy of an issue as certain issues that advocacy organizations, you know, can lobby for.
So we're certainly seeing that tensions with the executive branch, you know, with it with Governor Polis land you spill 2 13 failing last year that was his first legislative defeat. Certainly, you know, Ed can attest the JVC has been pushing back against the governor and his budget requests and have been, you know, certainly putting it into place other budgetary priorities. I'm outside of what the governor is requesting. So we'll see if there's some tensions. This year and or moving forward. And then the role of the ballot process as Ed mentioned, the big issue that was property tax during the special session and what's going to happen this year.
A lot of the worth that the that the property tax commission is going to be doing, some of which might very well be aimed at Trying to discourage. Valid initiatives and we know there's already a few that are certified for the ballot. So what is, what is that gonna do to the legislature? Is that gonna force the legislature to act, touch prematurely to do this or to do that? So that's, kind of always an interesting dynamic that, that we watch down at the Capitol. And I think that's all I had unless you wanted to mention anything else, but certainly we are open for questions. Comments, suggestions, complaints. Great presentation. Before we go to questions, I will point out that since Melinda is not having to give out parking passes tonight, tomorrow she will email out this presentation. Just as kind of a trade-off for that. So you will get this PowerPoint tomorrow. Thank you for that, Melinda. Questions or comments? I think that shows how good that presentation was, Mister Rex.
It was an excellent presentation. I always appreciate and Jen's frankness when, when they have a conversation about what's going on at the legislature. It's, it's gonna be It's gonna be, it's gonna be something, for sure. Hey, listen, I just wanted to share a couple of things with you all. You know, the one, if you know, the one good thing that came out of Senate Bill 2 13 is that I think, you know, it allowed us to have us collectively to have a really good conversation about. Okay. What our position is related to. You know, that nexus between housing and land use and the like and I think that that's really appreciated by staff because it's really helped us in some of these stakeholder meetings that we've been part of. Okay. Most notably, because it's really helped us in some of these stakeholder meetings that we've been part of, most notably associated with the Transitorian and a Communities One. That' That is the one. Bill that we've, we've had the most. Interaction with the governor's staff as well as the as the sponsors.
So that has been good and you know, and I, you know, just so you know, also CCI, CML. All the regular suspects have been involved in those meetings too and I think we're you know we're singing the course together with regards to what we believe is appropriate as it relates to, housing bills and the like. There's a lot more to come. This stuff is changing so quickly and, and you know, it's yeah, just changing very quickly. So we'll continue to follow this and, and I think, you know, by maybe the board work session will have a better idea where we are going into the session on these bills. The second thing I wanted to mention is regard to, and, of course, mentioned this is that, you know, the AAA funding and, and funding for older adults. This is an area that we prioritized. This legislative session, Ed Jen Rich. Jaila have had a lot of conversations with the joint budget committee. About possible.
You know, one time increase in funding. For this year just to offset the really the ARPA money that we've lost. We're really operating this coming year at 2018, maybe even maybe 2019 levels. But, yeah, but the purchasing power of that dollar because of inflation and everything else is just reduced. So we're able to offer even less services than what we could have offered back in 2019. So it's it's really problematic and this is with a population that we know is growing within within this is with a population that we know is growing within this region state. So we're actively having those conversations. So we're actively having those conversations and I really thank Ed Richards. So, we're, actively having those conversations. So, we're, actively having those conversations.
So, we're, actively having those conversations and I really thank Ed Rich Jen, Jaila for continuing to fight the good fight in that regard. And, you know, listen, I remain optimistic in this. I think, you know, we've had good conversation. I think they understand the issues. And, so hopefully we have success. I will tell you that I think there will become a time during this legislative session that we might ask you all to mobilize and help us in reaching out to legislators. Sorry, legislators. I'm related to this. And, because we know you have relationships too and I know you're more than happy to help. So, so stay tuned on that as well. Mr. Chairman, I'll just leave it there for now. I see, director Flynn has his hand up. Director Flynn. Thank you. I just want to go back to the special section. For a second, to make sure I clearly understand.
It is a one-year measure. And so, and and Jennifer, that means that in 2025. Residential property owners. Will feel the full force. Of the revaluation. From this past year. Correct the $55,000 off the top goes away. And these residential assessment ratio goes back up to. 6.7 5 6. Is that correct? So this this Yes, Director Flynn, that is correct. That is assuming nothing else will happen. Yeah. But at this point, yes, that it's a one year thing. Hmm. Sort of special. Study group this study that's going to be parallel with the session will they make recommendations to this session to fix it for 2025. Yes.
They'll make their recommendations are due March fifteenth, roughly the midpoint of the session. Right. So there will be plenty of time to have a full debate on any of their recommendations. And I mentioned there'll be lots of other property tax bills outside of that task force as well. Sure. All right. Thank you for that. I just want to make sure I clearly understood that. Appreciate it. Great. Last chance for comments or questions. And Jen, thank you so much. Fantastic job. We are so lucky to have the 2 of you. Working for Dr. Cog and for our region. So thank you very much for all that you do. And appreciate being here tonight. Was it? Without we are going to move ahead. Thank you. Thanks. Yep, thank you. Just call to your attention a couple of informational items in your packet administrative modifications to the 2024 27 tip and fist through your 2023 and your listing of obligated projects.
With that, we are at committee reports and we will start with the report from the State Transportation Advisory Committee, Director Nicholas Williams. Sir. Sorry there, little trouble getting off mute. The, I'm sorry, the stack did not meet this month. No reports are. Well, that's a nice quick one. Report for Mitchell, Muir's caucus, but starker. Just as quick, the caucus hasn't met since we did, so we have no report tonight.
Thank you. Well, there you go. A report from the, Missouri Accounted Commissioners, George Teal. Thank you, Chair. Let me pull up my notes real quick. And okay. At the last meeting of the metro accounting commissioners there was consensus achieved. Between all members including the city in County Denver that Denver is no longer consider itself a sanctuary city. And that none of the other counties consider themselves sanctuary counties. In terms of federal immigration. However, was noted by the mayor's office. That Denver. Would still need to, repeal in 2,017 law. In order for that to be official. Said Mayor Johnson did continue to emphasize work on partnerships across the materia counties. The counties did also have a discussion about a new law that will allow counties to set and establish a minimum wage at the county level. And that is, that is largely the top topic of discussion. That is my report. Thank you very much.
Jayo Sanchez Warren is not here so she does not have a report from the advisory committee on agent but I'm going to take just a moment to acknowledge that the ACA lost a star our region lost a star when Kathy passed away in December eleventh. I knew Kathy before I was an elected office back when she was a mayor and I was with a group that was using some of their space for an event. But it was, it was my pleasure and I think others to serve on the ACA with Kathy. I think she is an example of just the the best type of leader and we are very sorry to have lost her.
She won the John B. Christiansen Award in 2,019 and her memorial service will be in January. Doug, you did a great job in what you sent out to the board, but I just I wanted to take a moment and just reflect personally having served with her on the ACA. So if you all. Moving ahead to the report from the regional air quality council, Doug Rex. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, very much. And first of all, thank you, sir, for recognizing the the great lady that was, Kathy Noon, she was, she was special to us for sure. I appreciate your comments. Regional quality council, we met on December first. I'll just mention a couple action items. One was the approval of the 2024 budget and work program. We also, took action, proposing some additional regulations as it relates to venting and blow downs as well as existing pneumatic controllers for the own gas industry.
They're just looking for a place on the AQCCs, calendar to begin that public process. And those were the major highlights. Thank you, sir. Thank you very much, moving ahead. Report from the E 4 70 authority. Director Movie. Hi, yeah, there was a little bit more activity with E 4 70 than in the past few months. And at first there was some, very long discussion about the budget. The key points there is there was a extensive traffic study that's available.
A little bit lower usage is projected than have been previously, but it hasn't decreased. It's just a lesser increase. The tolls will remain the same. There's conservative management of the budget. In addition, there was some, reporting on the next gen toll operations. The construction projects and extension of the large construction highway design project and involves 40 eighth street right now and then. Jurisdiction changes with staff changing as well as doctor at, E 4 70 internally. It's functioning very well, however, and we welcome some new people on the board. Thank you. Thank you. Very much. Moving ahead to report from the Colorado Department of Transportation, Darius Packbas. Thank you, Mr. Chair. The transportation commission did meet today. They had the workshop and meeting today, 2 items of note. There was a workshop on the Bridge and Tunnel Enterprise financing. For 10 your plan bridge projects and the. A commission passed a resolution regarding fee access for right away, in regards to, fiber within state highway right away.
Will note that, well, I don't based on what I've been told by experts at C. Dot on meteorology and maintenance. I don't think there's going to be much as far as accumulation in. The metro area there's probably going to be some in the higher elevations. But, if you're our traveling, stay safe and wish everybody a happy holidays. And thank you. That's the end of my report here. Thank you so much.
And report from RTD, Regional Transportation District, a group that has great sweaters. We saw one of us Christmas a holiday sweater yesterday at our RTC meeting. Brian Welsh your report, please. Thank you, Chair. Whenever somebody says happy holidays. You know, the first thing I hear is being Crosby singing. Oh, there. I'm probably the only one who No, I was not alive in 1942. Great song. Anyway, 2 quick things from RTD. First of all, we are gonna have a brand new fare structure that will be implemented on January first. You know about that? We that was adopted back in July.
It has equitable, affordable and simple fares for everybody. The other thing is Molson Course will once again support 0 Fairs starting at 7 PM on New Year's Eve all the way through 7 a. M. On New Year's Day. That's my report for tonight. Happy holidays from our TV. That is awesome. Thank you very much. Our next, workshop is January, the third. Our next meeting is January seventeenth. Other matters by members. I will say happy holidays, happy whatever you celebrate for those that celebrate Hanukkah that just passed. Hope it was meaningful and peaceful. Those that celebrate Christmas, Merry Christmas those that have other celebrations or even if it's just a matter of taking some time as the year ends and we move into the new year. I hope everybody has a chance to recharge, rest up. And has some meaningful time with the people that matter to you.
With that and you all matter to all of us, thank you for what you do for your communities. Thank you for what you do for Dr. Cog. And thank you to the Dr. Koch staff and all of our municipality staff. You, you do a heck of a lot. So thank you so much. With that, we are not that far behind it's 8 45 and we are adjourned. Have a good night.