Westword

Denver vs. Aurora: Homelessness reports reveal two competing visions

State, Approved, Local, Westword / / , , , ,

The first state-funded homelessness report to look at the crisis across Colorado came out on Monday, April 28, with an estimate that nearly 53,000 people are experiencing homelessness statewide.

The recommended solution sets it apart from another report published just a couple of weeks ago.

“Homelessness ends with a home,” The Colorado State of Homelessness Report 2024 urges in its call to action. “Every part of the homelessness response system — from street outreach to emergency shelter — must stay focused on connecting people to permanent housing as quickly as possible.”

Denver vs. Aurora: Homelessness reports reveal two competing visions Read More »

Proposed Colorado law would cut base wages for Denver’s tipped employees

Approved, State, Westword / / ,

In the last ten years, the minimum wage for tipped workers in Denver has more than tripled and the resulting increase in labor cost has played a major factor in the closure of many local restaurants. Now, state lawmakers are considering a bill that would roll back those increases.

Proposed Colorado law would cut base wages for Denver’s tipped employees Read More »

Junk fees are putting Coloradans in debt. Legislation may be coming to help

Approved, State, Westword / /

Jade Smith’s Housing Choice Voucher covers rent at her Denver apartment and a utility stipend for her Xcel Energy bills, but she still owes her complex over $200. That’s because Smith’s apartment complex, like many others in Denver, charges “junk” fees beyond utilities and rent.

Junk fees are putting Coloradans in debt. Legislation may be coming to help Read More »