Arvada parents raise public safety concerns at city council meeting

The Arvada City Council meeting held on April 1, 2025, featured a significant public safety discussion initiated by resident Chris Coleman, who addressed concerns regarding safety issues near Shriners and St. Anne's Elementary School. Coleman, representing concerned parents, highlighted alarming incidents that have raised fears for the safety of children in the area.

Coleman recounted a recent event where his wife reported a woman exhibiting erratic behavior near the school. The Arvada Police Department responded promptly, demonstrating their commitment to community safety. However, Coleman noted that this was not an isolated incident. He described multiple occurrences of drug-related activities near the school and library, including the discovery of meth paraphernalia in the library's bathrooms.

The resident expressed gratitude for the police's quick response but emphasized the need for more effective and sustainable solutions to address the growing safety concerns. He warned that the ongoing issues could undermine the progress made by the city council and community volunteers in fostering a thriving and inclusive environment in Old Town Arvada.

Coleman urged the council to take these concerns seriously, stating that the safety of children and the community's well-being are at stake. He called for a more permanent solution to the escalating problems, rather than temporary fixes, to ensure the safety of families and businesses in the area.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for the city council to address public safety comprehensively, as residents seek reassurance and effective measures to protect their community.