Local Works asks Wheat Ridge for $377,200 in 2027 operating funding and a new $50,000 business grant program

Local Works presented its 2027 outside‑agency funding request to the council on Aug. 3, asking for $377,200 in total — $327,200 for general operations and $50,000 to capitalise a new business grant program.

Executive director Paige described 2026 accomplishments that lawmakers cited in the council packet: RidgeFest attendance of about 2,900, the Clear Creek Makerspace reporting roughly 64,000 door‑counts since opening and more than 4,200 participants in classes or workshops. "Local Works is that beating heart in Wheat Ridge," Paige said, explaining that city support leverages private grants and other revenue sources; she said the organization has diversified funding and currently receives roughly 39% of its revenue from the city.

Paige asked council to approve a $50,000 open grant program for local small businesses that could fund non‑traditional needs such as short‑term marketing or hiring support; the board will appoint an internal review committee and the mayor would appoint council representation to the grant review panel. She said Local Works will begin outreach and office hours in fall if the request is approved and hopes to open applications Jan. 1, 2027.

Councilors asked about reserve policy, in‑kind contributions and administrative efficiency for regranting programs. Paige said Local Works has spent down prior reserves to expand programming and now holds about a one‑year operating reserve; she also described in‑kind partnerships (donations and donated services) and an incoming large private grant from the Colorado Gives Foundation to supplement city funding for block party and library of things expansions.

Council discussion was broadly supportive, with members praising Local Works’ return on investment while urging attention to program design and reporting for the new business grant line.