Bernadette Y. Salazar

The City Council conducted a study session to discuss two primary topics: potential updates to the city charter for the upcoming ballot and a discussion regarding zoning and future direction. The council reviewed several sections of the city charter for potential amendments, including procedures for swearing in newly elected members, clarifying mill levy tax rates and temporary reductions, and extending timeframes for initiatives and referendums to better accommodate overseas and military voters. Additionally, the council deliberated on whether ordinances adopted to comply with state law should be subject to the referendum process.

The board meeting included an educational presentation on the functioning of business improvement districts and their collaboration with the Lakewood Reinvestment Authority. The board discussed and moved toward authorizing a proposal for a cleanup initiative on the West Colfax corridor, involving blight mitigation through graffiti and debris removal. Additionally, the board received information from consultants regarding findings related to the Sheridan corridor and a proposed urban renewal area.

The City Council meeting included proclamations recognizing Mental Health Month and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Colorado's 150th statehood anniversary, and the 50th anniversary of the Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park museum. The council received a presentation from the Friends of Paja, highlighting their fundraising support for inclusive summer camp programs. Additionally, the meeting featured an initial public comment period where concerns regarding neighborhood growth, housing density, and the availability of data for zoning research were discussed.

The City Council processed several ordinances covering various municipal matters. Key actions included authorizing supplemental appropriations to the annual budget for tax refunds, grant funding recognition, and special election expenses. The Council also voted on property right-of-way vacations, the establishment of a building performance program, and amendments to the municipal code regarding general penalty provisions. Additionally, the Council considered and failed to pass several ordinances that would have repealed specific zoning and land use code updates from the previous year. A declaration of intent was also approved to acquire property for the construction of storm and sanitary sewer facilities.

The Lakewood City Council passed numerous resolutions throughout the first quarter of 2026. Key actions included the appointment of the Mayor Pro Tem, members to the Lakewood Advisory Commission, the Victim Assistance Compensation Board, the Board of Appeals, the Historic Preservation Commission, the Planning Commission, and the Budget and Audit Board. The Council established an ad-hoc committee for police transparency and another for charter review. Legislative actions involved calling for a special municipal election regarding zoning code amendments, setting water and sanitary sewer fees, encouraging a 'no' vote on a ballot question, approving an intergovernmental agreement for the US 6/Wadsworth Boulevard interchange project, and authorizing a salary performance increase for the City Attorney.