City Council Approves Major Modifications Amid Controversy

During a recent city council meeting in Arvada, a series of resolutions were approved, including employment agreements and significant construction contracts. The council unanimously passed a consent agenda consisting of eight items, which included the appointment of Linda Haley as acting city manager and amendments to employment agreements for the city attorney and presiding municipal court judge.

Notably, the council authorized a substantial increase in funding for various projects, including a change order for police evidence storage and a crime lab, amounting to $117,500, and an amendment for sewer improvements, raising the contract from over $1 million to a maximum of $1,128,087. Additionally, a resolution for the 2024 pavement resurfacing program was approved, with a budget not to exceed $3 million.

The council also addressed an employment separation agreement for former city manager Lori B. Gillis, which passed with a 6-1 vote, despite dissent from Councilmember Marriott, who expressed concerns over a non-disparagement clause within the agreement.

In a significant legislative move, the council approved the first reading of an ordinance allowing concealed handgun permit holders to carry firearms in City Hall, setting a public hearing for August 19, 2024.

Furthermore, Councilmember Davis raised a procedural issue regarding a previous public hearing for a Texas Roadhouse modification request, leading to a successful motion to reconsider the application due to a lack of proper notice to the applicant during the initial hearing.

The meeting concluded with a brief public comment session, where a resident expressed gratitude for the council's understanding during a coughing incident. The council is set to hold workshops next week, focusing on CDOT and sidewalk assistance, as they continue to engage with community concerns and development projects.