The City Council of Commerce City held a study session on September 22, 2025, focusing on a housing needs assessment, a collaborative effort with the Planning Commission. The meeting commenced with Planning Manager Heather Bitlock introducing the session and the consultant, Christian Karen from Matrix Design Group, who would present the findings.

Bitlock emphasized the importance of the housing needs assessment, describing it as a data-driven study that evaluates the supply, demand, and affordability of housing in the city. She urged council members and planning commissioners to engage with the data presented, noting that this session was foundational for a forthcoming housing action plan scheduled for next year. This plan will incorporate policy-making based on the assessment's findings.

The housing needs assessment is designed to comply with the Department of Local Affairs guidelines, making Commerce City eligible for Proposition 123 funding. It also meets state requirements for such assessments. The draft report from this study will be developed and finalized by the end of the year, ensuring that the city has a comprehensive understanding of its housing landscape.

Christian Karen then took the floor, expressing his pleasure in discussing the project and its significance. He holds a PhD in political science with a focus on state and local government, which underpins his expertise in the assessment's methodology.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing housing needs through informed data analysis, setting the stage for future policy initiatives aimed at improving housing affordability and availability in Commerce City. Further discussions and follow-up actions will be anticipated as the draft report progresses towards completion.