Arvada makes Jefferson County fire bans automatic within city to close enforcement gap

An ordinance that makes Jefferson County fire restrictions and bans take effect automatically in Arvada passed unanimously July 15, a change city staff described as closing a gap between county orders and local enforcement. City Manager Don Wick told the council the amendment addresses a delay under current code that left a gap between when Jefferson County declares a restriction or ban and when the city manager could review and approve it for Arvada. "With this ordinance amendment, the restriction or ban becomes automatic," Wick said, while noting the city manager retains authority to "modify or withdraw the restriction or the ban in the best interest of the city." Wick said the city set a 15-mile geographic limit when evaluating whether a county declaration should automatically apply to Arvada, and that Arvada Fire Protection District and communications staff will be part of coordinating public notice when a restriction or withdrawal is issued. Frank Ferranaro, manager of Penzi Spices in Old Town, urged strong codification of fire-safety rules and described how the historic building that houses his business increases his concern: "The building we are in is a 119 years old... With this increased amount of fire risk, but we have a business that's been a part of this community for 20 years..." Ferranaro also said his repeated permit requests for a collapsible security gate at his recessed entry had been denied for aesthetic reasons and asked the city to consider public-safety exceptions or adjustments. Council members voiced support for the ordinance and for staff following up on Old Town safety concerns; Council member Pfeiffer said he supported the measure and praised Ferranaro's approach to seeking solutions. The ordinance passed 7–0. It is numbered 4901.