Highlands Ranch Metropolitan District

The study session featured a legislative update from 3015 Policy Center regarding current session impacts, including support for federal legislation recognizing special districts as local governments. Staff presentations covered Finance responsibilities, including budgeting, forecasting, and successful implementation of a new billing platform, alongside discussions on fraud prevention controls and the Capital Improvement Plan update schedule. Another key item was the informational presentation on the Plaza Drive Park Opportunity, involving a proposed senior housing development that could result in the donation of two acres for a park, with construction costs reimbursed by the District. Discussion items involved placing several financial and project appropriation items on the Consent Agenda for the subsequent Board meeting, including January 2026 Cash and Investment Transactions, Project Appropriation Rescissions, field turf replacement at Redstone Park Stadium, and final payment for the Parkway Fence Replacement Program. An update was also given on the Historic Park planning phase, noting the need for external support from Slate Communications for public input engagement.

The meeting included presentations from a curriculum coordinator regarding the America 250 and Colorado 150 commemorations planned for 2026. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office provided an update on the School Resource Officer (SRO) program, noting its NASRO model adherence and the positive impact of the SRO therapy dog, Guster. Public comments addressed issues concerning a retaining wall repair at Marcy Park, e-bike safety on the Highline Canal, and community growth. Key business approvals included ratification of December 2025 cash transactions, appropriations for the Dad Clark Gulch Channel Stabilization Project, contract amendments for the Highlands Ranch Senior Center and Toepfer Park, a grant of easement to BAM Broadband, and designation of a new posting location. Special reports covered the upcoming pickleball complex grand opening, logistics for a potential dinner with the RTD Board Chair, and reconsideration of the Green Meadows reciprocal license agreement. The board also discussed local facility updates and the possibility of establishing a youth commission. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the General Manager's annual review.

The board meeting included a presentation from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, highlighting the use of drone technology and providing updates on a fentanyl seizure and the Grappler vehicle apprehension system. An update was provided on the Code Red reverse 911 alert system outage. Staff presented an update on Fly'n B Park, recommending an RFP for a new shelter design. The board discussed a Reciprocal License Agreement with Douglas County. The board also held a public hearing for the 2025 revised budget and the 2026 proposed budget and mill levy.

The board will discuss the process for the General Manager's annual review. The agenda includes routine board communication on cash and investment transactions, a lease agreement renewal with Mile High Performance Tennis, LLC, approval of final payment to Triple M Construction LLC for the 2025 Concrete Trail Replacement Program, and approval of release of retainage to A-to-Z Recreation for Toepfer Park Improvements. The board will also authorize the General Manager to engage Forvis Mazars, LLP for an audit of the District's financial statements, amend the 2025 Budget, approve 2026 fee schedules, the 2026 budget, and changes to Exhibit A of the Highlands Ranch Water and Wastewater Agreement.

The board meeting included a South Metro Fire Rescue update focusing on lithium-ion battery safety and community outreach, and a Douglas County Sheriff's Office update on crime statistics and community safety initiatives. The board discussed Chamber membership, agreeing to continue membership in the South Metro Denver Chamber. Other topics included the Zebulon Sports Complex project, ratification of September 2025 cash and investment transactions, approval of an appropriation and amendment for the Dad Clark Gulch Channel Stabilization project, adoption of the Product Description Document for MS4 Permit Compliance, and updates on Toepfer Park, Highlands Ranch Rules and Regulations, and the 2026 meeting schedule. The board also discussed the Kendrick Castillo Memorial Monuments unveiling ceremony and community support for families impacted by potential SNAP benefit lapses.