Committee advances ordinance to let Denver donate surplus vehicles to vocational nonprofits

The Finance and Business Committee of the Denver City Council on Aug. 26 voted to advance an ordinance amendment that would allow the City and County of Denver to donate certain surplus or unclaimed roadworthy vehicles valued at $1,500 or less to IRS‑registered nonprofit educational organizations for hands‑on instruction. The committee moved the ordinance forward to the full Council for consideration.

Committee members said the change is intended to support workforce development programs that lack a reliable, modern vehicle supply for automotive and collision training. Councilwoman Jamie Torres, who introduced the item, said community partners had repeatedly raised the issue and asked the city to find a legal pathway to help. General Services staff presented the draft change and the proposed implementation framework.

Adrina Gibson, deputy executive director of General Services, told the committee the change requires a modification to the Denver Revised Municipal Code because the existing…