Govt Affairs Updates

Douglas County Seeks Applicants for Audit Committee

Douglas County has established a new audit committee, and applications are being sought for the new board. . The committee will provide oversight for the County’s financial reporting, internal controls and auditors’ activities. Five citizens will be appointed to the Douglas County Audit Committee – one from each commissioner district and two at-large members with financial experience such as a Certified Public Accountant, banking officials or finance professionals from other government entities – for a three-year term. For more information and an application, due by September 24, please visit http://www.douglas.co.us/commissioners/Audit_Committee.html.

Broomfield May Consider Changes to Review Process

Broomfield might be on the verge of making major changes to the way it reviews and approves new construction projects, potentially giving more power to real estate developers and the Broomfield planning department, while reducing opportunities for public comment. At Tuesday’s city council meeting, a developer asked council to shorten the construction permitting process for North Park. The City Council currently has final say over most building projects in Broomfield. It votes on projects after they are vetted by the Land Use Review Committee. Both bodies allow for public comment before they vote.

Under a new proposal, the City Council would vote on a master plan for North Park. After that, planning department staff would review plans and approve them based on whether or not they conform to North Park`s master plan. Nearly all projects would bypass the City Council and LURC. Progress is expected to be made on this new proposal in the coming weeks and months.

NAR Calls for Action to Extend the First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

The National Association of REALTORS® is asking for your help in contacting your member of Congress to ask for an extension of the very successful homebuyer tax credit. The $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit expires December 1st. The usefulness of the credit diminishes daily if the credit is not extended well before that date. A homebuyer is eligible for the tax credit only if the home is “purchased” before December 1st. Buyers have to find a house, complete a contract, satisfy any contingencies, secure financing and go to closing by November 30th.

Please click this link: http://takeaction.realtoractioncenter.com/campaign/hbtc/xbess7xr0jxmbi6w? and spend less than five minutes asking your Senators and member of Congress to extend the homebuyer tax credit today!

CAR Announces Appointments to Political Survival Committee

A transition team appointed by CAR President Amy Dorsey and co-chaired by Kay Watson and Chris McElroy has appointed members of the new Political Survival Committee (PSC). The PSC will be charged with distributing funds for local and state candidates and issues; supporting grassroots and lobbying efforts; and educating local and state members on matters of public policy.

Kit Cowperthwaite, PSC Chair, Denver Board of REALTORS®

Kurt Albers, Loveland Berthoud Association of REALTORS®

Doug Barber, Pikes Peak Association of REALTORS®

Bob Cope, Pikes Peak Association of REALTORS®

David DeElena, Aurora Association of REALTORS®

Russell DeSalvo, Pueblo Association of REALTORS®

Mark Donahue, Durango Area Association of REALTORS®

Curtis Hilty, Boulder Area REALTOR® Association

Tom Kenyon, Grand Junction Area REALTOR® Association

Jeff Kirkendall, Denver Metropolitan Commercial Association of REALTORS®

Alan Lovitt, Pikes Peak Association of REALTORS®

John Lucero, Denver Board of REALTORS®

Nancy McBride, Longmont Association of REALTORS®

Wynne Palermo, Pikes Peak Association of REALTORS®

Margy Robertson, San Luis Valley Board of REALTORS®

Sandy Trujillo, South Metro Denver REALTOR® Association

John Wendt, Glenwood Springs Association of REALTORS®

Aurora Impact Fee Proposal Dies on the Vine

The Aurora Association of REALTORS® received very good news last week when it was discovered that the group supporting the possible development fee increase in Aurora would not turn in the required number of signatures to get the proposal on the November ballot. This is a huge win for the real estate industry. If passed, the proposal would have more than tripled the development fee charged for single family residential housing, thereby increasing the cost of housing in Aurora. The REALTOR® Association, together with the metro area Home Builders association was strongly opposed to this measure, and will continue to monitor the proposal closely, as the proponent have indicated they’d like to see a ballot measure in the future.

Deadline is This Friday for Applications to Transit Alliance Citizen’s Academy

The Transit Alliance Citizen’s Academy is a unique opportunity to discuss the complex linkages between transportation, community development and sustainability. These complexities and their relationship to the goals of the Denver Metro Region are uncovered in the program through a variety of speakers from the development community, public health sector, municipal government, the Regional Transportation District and many more. The cornerstone of this unique program is that participants will take their new knowledge and put it in action. Each session will be designed to be very interactive and participants will be asked to follow-up each session with a homework assignment. In addition, participants will spend a portion of each class designing their individual action plan that they will implement in their community upon completing the academy.

The Academy will meet on Wednesday evenings from 6 - 9 p.m. for seven consecutive weeks beginning September 23 and ending on November 4, 2009. Meetings will be held at the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, 1445 Market Street, 5th Floor, Denver, CO. Participants selected for this program will be provided scholarships from supporting organizations and/or Transit Alliance. There will be no cost to participants. APPLICATIONS ARE DUE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2009 by 5:00 PM. More information and the Application Form are available at http://www.transitalliance.org/Academy.

Local Builder’s Association Opposes Amendments to Denver’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance

Denver is considering making amendments to its Inclusionary Housing Ordinance (IHO), and the local builders’ association is opposing a few key points that impact the real estate industry. The IHO requires developers to set aside a certain number of units of any residential development to be deed restricted affordable housing or to pay a fee to a city wide fund that promotes affordable housing. The HBA of Metro Denver sent a letter to the city this week opposing a proposal that would lower the unit threshold from 30 to 20 units for developments required to comply with the IHO, arguing that the city’s desired density goals would be tougher to achieve. The disincentive to build from the new proposal could possibly make fewer affordable housing units available. The Denver Board of REALTORS® is closely monitoring this issue and shares concerns similar to the builders.

CAR Seeking Applicants for Statewide Legislative Policy Committee

The Legislative Policy Committee (LPC) is the group that reviews all legislation at the state level affecting real estate during the regular session of the Colorado General Assembly. Issues such as real estate transfer taxes, water rights, land use and development and regulatory issues are discussed and reviewed and positions are determined for the Colorado Association of REALTORS®. The LPC will meet primarily January - May to review, prepare and make decisions based upon legislation that will be or has been introduced in the 2010 Colorado Legislative Session. Appointments will be made by the 2010 CAR President – If appointed, the first meeting will take place at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs on Tuesday, October 20, 2009.

If you would like to serve, or would like to nominate someone to serve, please complete the entire form and return via e-mail to wparham@coloradorealtors.com or fax to 303-832-3390. The Application deadline is Monday, September 21^st, 2009.

NAR Launches Video Contest to Promote Home Buyer Tax Credit

In August NAR launched a 2009 REALTOR Party Video Contest, challenging REALTORS® to make a short, personal video explaining how the Home Buyer Tax Credit has helped their clients buy their first home. The contest will run until September 30. The winning entry will receive a $500 American Express gift card and be shown at the Annual Convention in San Diego in November. Two runners-up will receive Flip UltraHD Camcorders.

All of the information about the contest, including the rules and instructions on how to enter, is located at http://www.realtoractioncenter.com/video. If you have questions about the contest or other suggestions or comments, please feel free to contact Hilary Woodward at hwoodward@realtors.org or 202-383-1235.

Transit Alliance now Accepting Applications for Fall Citizen’s Academy

Deadline for Development Fee Ballot Proposal Extended in Aurora

In a somewhat surprising move, the group promoting a ballot question to raise development fees in Aurora was granted an extension for their deadline to turn in the necessary signatures. The group now has until the end of the month to turn in the required amount of qualified citizen signatures. If the measure makes the ballot and is approved by voters, development fees for new single family homes would rise in the city of Aurora to $4041, more than tripling the current fee of $1204.

REALTORS® set to Participate in Housing Fair Hosted by Congressmen Polis and Perlmutter

Congressman Jared Polis and Congressman Ed Perlmutter will host a Housing Fair in Thornton on Saturday, August 22, 2009. Local REALTORS®, together with NAR and CAR will host a booth at the event highlighting various housing opportunities for members of the public. Participants will be able to speak with housing counselors and financial professionals, learn about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and understand the foreclosure process and available options to avoiding foreclosure. All members are encouraged to attend this housing fair and stop by the REALTOR® booth.

Event Details

August 22, 2009

8 a.m. – Noon

Margaret Carpenter Recreation Center

11151 Colorado Blvd.

Thornton, CO 80233

Denver City Council Considering Possible Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance Reforms

The Denver Board of REALTORS® is closely monitoring proposed changes to the city’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance, which requires a set aside of certain numbers of deed restricted affordable units to be part of any housing development in Denver. This ordinance has shown to be relatively ineffective the last few years, based on an annual report produced by the city. While discussions about changing the ordinance are a positive step, REALTORS® have concerns about what changes might be made.

Specifically, there is concern over a proposal to decrease the unit threshold for the ordinance from 30 units to 20 units. Denver has long maintained (through Blueprint Denver and other documents) the need for more density planning, yet this proposal could have a negative impact on density within the city. DBR will continue to monitor this issue closely

CAR works with CREC in Reinstatement of Forms

The Colorado Association of REALTORS® Government Affairs division worked closely with the CREC this summer to reinstate new forms relating to the Colorado Foreclosure Protection Act so that brokers would continue to have the ability to facilitate such transactions. CAR is now in the process of scheduling several educational classes around the state this fall on Short Sales and the Colorado Foreclosure Protection Act. With all the changes recently implemented by the Commission, it has created a lot of confusion in the marketplace on the applicability of the Act. The classes will cover when and how to use the new forms, and how to consult your client on the Act. For more information on upcoming classes, visit CAR Education Services.

NAR Responds to FHFA Guidance on HVCC

On August 4, 2009, NAR President Charles McMillan sent a letter to Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) Director James Lockhart addressing the agency's recent guidance on the Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC). The Guidance states that HVCC should mitigate controversy by increasing protection for appraisers. In the letter, Mr. McMillan applauds FHFA for its efforts to address misinformation surround the Code but disagrees that the HVCC is appropriately dealing with the controversy surrounding the appraisal process.

NAR cites survey data that indicates the Code is creating negative unintended consequences. "According to a survey of our members, 76 percent of respondents said the length of time to obtain a completed appraisal report increased after May 1, 2009. More than one third of REALTORS® have lost at least one sale because of a delay in the appraisal process. At the same time, respondents who identified themselves as appraisers said their time frame to submit an appraisal report has decreased and half of these respondents say this impacts the quality of the appraisal report." At the same time, the cost to the consumer is increasing.

Denver Slows Down the New Zoning Code Slightly

Denver City Council members announced on Monday that the legislative portion of the new zoning code process will likely not take place until early 2010. Earlier this year, council members had expressed a desire to finish this code by the end of 2009. Just last week, members of Denver’s Zoning Code Task Force make a recommendation to the Mayor and City Council to slow down the process, due in part to the multitude of questions and tremendous confusion expressed during the first two rounds of city meetings when the zoning code maps were revealed.

The Denver Board of REALTORS® continues to be involved in this discussion, raising many concerns on the “usability” of the code. REALTORS® are expected to be experts in neighborhoods, and there is real concern that the block by block changes in zoning districts proposed in the new code will lead to massive confusion in the field. The city’s zoning code site can be found here: http://newcodedenver.org/

CAR Taking Applications for New Political Committee

Applications are being sought for the newly created Political Survival Committee (PSC). The PSC was created by the Board of Directors at the Summer Board Meeting. The PSC will be comprised of 17 members appointed by the CAR President. It consists of at least one member from each CAR District plus eleven at-large appointments. In general, the PSC will aid the local boards in providing political contributions to local candidates and issues. The PSC will also make endorsements and political contributions to state-level candidates and issues; except that the PSC will only provide a recommendation to the CAR Board of Directors for statewide constitutional officer candidates.

These members are charged with distributing funds for local and state candidates and issues; supporting grassroots and lobbying efforts; and educating local and state members on REALTOR® matters of public policy concern. The PSC will achieve its objectives, in part, by transferring funds to the REALTOR® Small Donor Committee and the REALTOR® Political Committee. Additionally, the PSC will manage and distribute some mandatory dues.

President Dorsey has also created a Transition Team (TT) that will help promulgate a working set of policies and procedures to assist with the initial development and long-term execution of the Political Survival Committee. The TT will also help establish guidelines for the PSC appointment process to help recruit and select the most qualified members to serve. Additionally, the TT will help review applications and assist President Dorsey in the appointment process.

For additional information, please contact Rachel Nance at 303-790-7099 or rnance@coloradorealtors.com

Colorado's Taxpayer's Bill of Rights to be Tested in Court.

A local Denver attorney, Herb Fenster, is prepared to file a lawsuit challenging Colorado’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights Amendment, saying TABOR has changed Colorado from a representative democracy into a direct democracy, thus violating the U.S. Constitution. Fenster is fighting for more education funding through taxation. He says it's better to leave matters of taxation in the hands of the state Legislature.

Fenster says that with TABOR the Legislature's ability to help education through taxation is compromised, damaging everything from elementary schools to the University of Colorado in Boulder. Fenster plans to file his lawsuit with the federal court in Denver in late September or afterwards. A decision could come in January. TABOR is already being challenged by a state committee.

Aurora Impact Fee Increase still Headed for November Ballot

This Thursday is the deadline for supporters of a proposal that would raise the cost of housing in Aurora to turn in valid signatures to the city clerk’s office. Provided there are enough valid signatures from Aurora registered voters, the proposal will be on the ballot November 3^rd. This petition would increase the city’s current development impact fee for new single family detached homes from $1204 to $4041. Advocates of this measure are arguing that development has a greater impact on the city than the current impact fee covers, citing a 2008 study that shows a capital impact of $5,100 from each new home constructed. That survey did not compare the revenue generated by new home construction or the economic impact of new families in Aurora on the sales tax base. This measure, if approved, would have a negative impact on the price of housing and cost of living in Aurora.

National Health Care Reform Deadline Passes Without Floor Votes

Last Friday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed HR 3200, the House healthcare bill by a vote of 31-28 with all Republicans and 5 Democrats on the committee voting no. The markup ended a long couple of weeks of negotiations, but there was still an agreement to revisit the bill and pending amendments when the House returns to Washington in September.

Concerned with the cost of the bill and provisions that would create an optional public insurance program, the committee's moderate Blue Dog members had earlier indicated their plans to oppose the bill unless amended to address their concerns. Changes sought included cutting the cost of the bill by $100 billion by restructuring the bill's tax credits for individuals, increasing the threshold for small businesses that would be exempted from the bill's employer mandate requirements and postponing any floor consideration of the bill until after the August recess.

In the Senate, while progress was made, the Senate Finance Committee failed to consider a bill. Despite pressure from Senate leadership and the White House to move a bill prior to recessing on August 7th, Finance Committee leaders, Chairman Max Baucus and Ranking Minority Member Charles Grassley, continued to work methodically with a bipartisan group of four other Senate Finance Committee members on efforts to create a compromise bill that could successfully make it's way through the Senate. Unless unforeseen developments occur, the group of six and committee staff will continue to work through the August recess with a committee markup planned for September.

NAR continues to meet with House and Senate offices and committee staff on the various components of the reform proposals. Staff continue to analyze the mammoth bills and consult with the members of NAR's Business Issues Committee and Federal Tax Policy Committee for specific policy input. NAR has not taken a position on any of the health reform bills at this time.

Aurora Library Question to Appear on November Ballot

After hearing testimony from more than 20 residents, local employees and state representatives, the Aurora City Council voted this past week to move forward with a plan to ask voters to create a new general improvement district (GID) to fund Aurora’s at-risk library system. The GID option, which would see residents of the proposed district pay more taxes, would require the approval of voters this November. The proposed levy would be an added 4.29 mills, which would translate into an extra $5.69 a month (approx 68 dollars per year) on a $200,000 home. The Aurora Association of REALTORS® has been closely monitoring this issue. AAR has not taken a position on the measure, but will continue to monitor based on real estate and property tax ramifications.

REALTORS® Incentive-Based Approaches in Support of Green Buildings

NAR testified before a House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee last week on the significance of its green building and reinforced its support for energy efficiency tax credits, block grants and weatherization assistance investment. NAR research shows there is a considerable and growing market for green buildings, and that voluntary incentive-based approaches will do more to spur demand for energy efficiency than government mandates.

“NAR has taken a number of important steps to raise public awareness about green buildings and their benefits in the marketplace,” said Jim Helsel, NAR treasurer and a REALTOR® from Pennsylvania specializing in commercial real estate. Helsel served as chairman of NAR’s Real Property Operations Committee in 2002-03 that oversaw creation and development of the REALTOR® building that was certified for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and was awarded the Silver LEED rating by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2004 when the building opened.

Centennial Continues Work on Sign Code

Many thanks to the REALTORS® who came to the sign code meeting in Centennial last week. Participants in this informal meeting were asked to share their preference to different types of sign conditions such as size, setbacks, amount of information/content, height, and character/design. Centennial is moving towards making their sign code content neutral, ensuring that the city does not endure legal liability by regulating signs on content or specific business type. REALTORS® continue to monitor this discussion and are working to try and ease the city’s current setback requirements for temporary signs. For more information on the city’s work for a new land use code and information on the possibilities being discussed for signage, click here: http://www.centennialcodeupdate.com/

NMDRA Participates in Commerce City Comprehensive Plan Discussion

Commerce City is engaging in an aggressive project to update their 30 year comprehensive plan. As in any comp plan, many elements are being considered, and the city is working hard to ensure smooth cooperation with its transportation, economic development and land use components. To that end, the North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association participated in a stakeholders meeting last week with the city, and will continue to provide input on future needs throughout the life of the project.

Specifically, the city is looking for input on land use objectives in the E470 corridor. Ideas range from heavy industrial, to mixed use to heavy residential, and they’re open to all possibilities. More information on this discussion can be found here: http://www.cccvision.com/

Aurora Impact Fee Increase could be Headed for November Ballot

A citizens’ petition currently circulating in Aurora could drastically impact the cost of housing in the city. This petition would increase the city’s current development impact fee for new single family detached homes from $1204 to $4041. Advocates of this measure are arguing that development has a greater impact on the city than the current impact fee covers, citing a 2008 study that shows a capital impact of $5,100 from each new home constructed. That survey did not compare the revenue generated by new home construction or the economic impact of new families in Aurora on the sales tax base. This measure, if approved, would have a negative impact on the price of housing and cost of living in Aurora. The Aurora Association of REALTORS® opposes this proposal and will be heavily involved in this discussion should it advance to the November ballot.

Centennial Open House on Sign Code set for July 15^th

All REALTORS® who are interested in Centennial should plan to attend a public workshop on sign regulations on July 15, 2009 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers at the Centennial Civic Center. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the approach and substance of the new sign regulations that will be incorporated into the City’s new Land Development Code. The discussion will include the recommendations of the Technical Team (principally comprised of City Staff and referral agencies) Advisory Team (a citizen-based group that provides strategic guidance for the code rewrite), Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Council. Ideas from workshop participants are invited and welcomed.

At the meeting, the consultant will make a brief presentation on the legal framework for sign regulations, the proposed approach to regulating signs, and the recommendations of the Technical Team, Advisory Team, Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Council with respect to the approach and content of the new regulations. Then the consultant will lead participants through a slideshow to identify their aesthetic preferences. Input from meeting participants will be used to refine the sign code. For more information about the Land Development Code Rewrite project, click here: www.centennialcodeupdate.com

Denver Neighborhood Meetings Continue for New Land Use Code

Meetings continue around Denver as the proposed Denver Land Code rewrite is rolled out to the public. District wide meetings, including a chance to review your specific district map, will take place in the next few weeks in Districts 3, 6, 9, and 11 in the coming weeks. More information on those meetings can be found here: http://www.newcodedenver.org/meetings

This new code will have tremendous impact on the real estate industry, since zoning will be based primarily on context and form rather than use. Neighborhoods will be zoning differently sometimes from block to block. The Denver Board of REALTORS® has been actively involved in this process for years with the city in order to address real estate issues throughout the process. More information on the new code can be found here: http://www.newcodedenver.org/

Arvada on the Hunt for Permit Violations

The City of Arvada requires citizens to obtain permits when work is done in their homes. Recently, complaints were filed against 15 homeowners where there was a discrepancy between the public records and information provided on their property in the multiple listing service. For example: the property was described as having a finished basement but the public records do not indicate a building permit had been issued for a finished basement. The City is investigating the complaints and issuing notices of violation where appropriate. This has caused numerous problems for homeowners in Arvada who have their property on the market and raises issues for the real estate licensees involved. JCAR is working with Arvada officials to identify a reasonable solution for homeowners in Arvada.

Aurora Takes Another Look at Online Financial Records

The Aurora City Council will discuss putting the city’s financial books online at its July 13 meeting, but already it seems to have the support of a majority of the council. Councilmember Ryan Frazier proposed a similar initiative last year, but implementation carried a $80,000 price tag. Since then, officials have cut the cost to between $10,000 and $20,000 by contracting out some of the work and using the city's staff to do the rest.

The city's move follows a trend among governments to put more financial information online for the public. Gov. Bill Ritter this year signed a bill to put the state's checkbook online. And anyone can keep track of how the $787 billion federal economic stimulus package funds are being distributed by looking online.

Candidate Screening on the Horizon

Election Day is quickly approaching, and REALTORS® must be ready to help elect those candidates who score high on real estate issues. This November 3^rd, elections will be contested all around the metro Denver area, with many of those elections taking place by mail in vote only. Consequently, local REALTOR® associations will be interviewing candidates in the late summer and early fall to ensure our voice is heard early in the process.

Your local association is always looking for volunteers to get trained and participate in the candidate interview process. This is your opportunity to sit down in an intimate setting with candidates and question them on their views about matters affecting the real estate industry. Then, recommendations are made by these screening panels to the local association board of directors to support candidates based on their views in the election. It’s a tremendous opportunity to become familiar with the local election process and to meet the men and women seeking to represent you at city hall. If you would like more information on this process or would like to volunteer, send an email to nbokone@gmdra.com.

State Carbon Monoxide Detector Law now in Effect

Remember that on July 1^st new regulations went into effect that requires sellers of residential real property containing a fuel fired heater or appliance, a fireplace, an attached garage to be responsible for the placement and proper installation of carbon monoxide detectors within 15 feet of the entrance to all rooms that are lawfully used for sleeping. More information about the law can be found on CAR’s website here: http://coloradorealtors.com/car_resources_main.asp

House Passes Climate Bill with Energy Labeling Exemptions

Last week, U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act by Reps. Waxman (D-CA) and Markey (D-MA). The bill, re-numbered H.R. 2998, includes NAR-supported provisions, championed by Rep. Perlmutter (D-CO), that exempt existing homes and buildings from the bill's provisions to build upon an existing Energy Star energy labeling program. Overall, REALTORS® succeeded in making a number of positive changes to the bill.

The House-approved bill:

Does not create a federal energy audit requirement for real property;
Exempts existing homes and building from any federal guidelines for new construction energy efficiency information labels;
Prohibits the implementation of any labeling during a sales transaction;
Leaves the decision to states as to whether to require energy audits, disclosures, etc;
Provides property owners with significant financial incentives, matching grants and tools to make property improvements and reduce their energy bills;
Prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating residential and commercial buildings under the Clean Air Act;
Eliminated an early proposal to allow citizens to sue over minor climate risks under the Clean Air Act; and
Establishes green building incentives for HUD housing, including a loan program for renewable energy, block grants and credit for upgrades in mortgage underwriting.

While H.R. 2998 includes many positive changes, NAR will have additional opportunities to make further changes to address unresolved issues, such as the bill's building energy code targets. The Senate must still pass its version of an energy and climate bill. There would be a House-Senate conference committee to reconcile differences between the House and Senate bills. The timing for a vote in the Senate is not clear as the Environment and Public Works Committee still must develop the climate provisions to "cap and trade" carbon emissions. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has approved energy provisions that are more realistic and preserve state flexibility to develop and enforce building codes. While the bill as approved by the House represents a significant improvement over the bill that was introduced, NAR will continue to work to address these issues as the legislative process continues.

Denver Board Hosts Zoning Code Update Meeting June 2^nd

The City of Denver has been working for a number of years on updating its zoning code. Now, the city is rolling out the first segments of its plan for public comment before the code goes to city council in the coming months. This new zoning code will affect ALL REALTORS® who transact business in the city of Denver, and we encourage everyone to find out more information. The Denver Board of REALTORS® has been an active participant in this discussion from the very beginning and will host a session with Denver officials specifically for real estate professionals.

When: June 2^nd from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: The Denver Board of REALTORS® (4300 E. Warren Ave.)

Cost: Free; refreshments provided

This presentation by the Community Planning and Development Department and the City and County Planning Board will help you: learn about the Zoning Code Update, better understand the Draft Code, prepare for how the new Code will impact property transactions and ask questions. For more information on the Zoning Code Update visit www.newcodedenver.org.

Castle Rock Considers Relaxing Sign Code

As the area continues to struggle with a difficult real estate market, towns and cities all over the metro area are working to see what can be done to boost the economy and help support real estate. This week, the Town of Castle Rock will consider two ordinances designed to temporarily relax their sign code to support local merchants. At tonight’s meeting, the Town Council will vote on an ordnance to allow sandwich board signs on the sidewalks in front of businesses and to relax a restriction prohibiting signs within 300 horizontal feet of other signs on a commercial property. Both of these measures, if approved, are small positive steps that should allow more flexibility for real estate companies and agents to advertise their businesses.

Also, the city convened a sign code task force that is examining the feasibility of relaxing the code restricting open house signs. For more information on any of these proposals, visit the town’s website at http://www.townofcastlerock.org/

Arapahoe County Seeks Citizens for Boards/Commissions

The Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners has openings on advisory boards and committees and is seeking applications from residents who are interested in helping their community. Qualified applicants must be residents of Arapahoe County. Applications are being accepted for the following advisory boards and committees:

· Board of Adjustment - one vacancy

· CSU Cooperative Extension Advisory Committee - three vacancies

· Community Corrections Board - two vacancies

· Liquor Authority - one position for Alternate No. 2

The application deadline is June 1, 2009. Interested residents can apply online. To fill out an online application, visit the County's web site at www.co.arapahoe.co.us and click on online tools. Applications also are available at the Commissioners’ Office in the County Administration Building, 5334 S. Prince St., Fourth Floor, Littleton. For more information on a particular board or to request an application by mail, call Carol Dosmann at the Commissioners’ Office at 303-795-4531.

Metro Mayors ask RTD to Delay Tax Measure Until 2010

Denver-area mayors have reversed course and now favor a year's delay and a November 2010 vote on a sales-tax increase for RTD's FasTracks transit program. On June 2, the Regional Transportation District board of directors is expected to back the mayors' recommendation and set the vote for next year. In March, the Metro Mayors Caucus, which includes about 40 area mayors, backed a proposal for a vote in November in the eight-county metro area on a proposal to double the current 0.4 percent FasTracks sales tax.

Delaying the vote until next year "allows us to work with RTD to ensure that what was promised to voters" in the original 2004 FasTracks tax vote "will be delivered," said Louisville Mayor Chuck Sisk.

In choosing 2010 for the vote on a doubling of the tax, mayors also are relying on data supplied to their group by political consultant Maria Garcia Berry, which shows far less voter participation in off-year elections. The number of "active, hard-core" metro-area voters who have submitted ballots in the past three odd-year elections - 2003, 2005 and 2007 - has been about 304,000, Berry said, compared with about 847,000 in even-year elections.

NAR Adopts Policy to Regulate Appraisal Management Companies at Midyear Legislative Meetings

On Saturday, May 16, 2009, the NAR Board of Directors adopted policy that supports the regulation of appraisal management companies, primarily through FIRREA and the existing appraisal regulatory infrastructure. NAR President Charles McMillan hinted at such a policy in March when he testified before the House Financial Services Subcommittee on appraiser independence.

NAR's Policy: That NAR supports the empowerment of federal mortgage regulators to adopt standards for real estate appraisal management companies and promulgate licensing requirements of said companies to the states through the Financial Institutions Reform and Recover Enforcement Act (FIRREA) and other similar legislation.

NAR's Rationale: Appraisal management companies are not currently regulated at the federal level and regulation at the state level varies. Regulation would ensure that AMCs operate within the same basic guidelines and standards as independent appraisers. Further, this allows AMCs to be regulated within the existing appraisal regulatory structure, which avoids the need to create additional layers of government bureaucracy.

Castle Rock Creates Sign Code Working Group

At a meeting last week, the Town Council of Castle Rock voted to create a sign code working group in order to address the city’s current regulations on signs, including real estate signs. The working group will be made up of 8 to 10 citizens and is intended to be made up of many diverse points of view. The group will meet through May and will make recommendations to the city council in early Summer. The Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association has been closely involved in this issue and expects to have at least one REALTOR® appointed to the working group.

Northglenn to Meet with REALTORS® Regarding Rental Properties

The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association was recently involved in the defeat of a proposal in Northglenn to register and inspect rental properties with non-resident landlords. In the wake of this legislative victory, NMDRA is taking steps to move forward with the city and build a positive working relationship on rental and property condition issues. On May 12^th, NMDRA members will meet with Northglenn to discuss common goals for future rental property regulations as well as exploring ways that the city can benefit from the real estate knowledge our members possess. More information will follow in these updates as events warrant.

Two REALTORS® Running for City Council in Aurora This November

The Aurora Association of REALTORS® (AAR) has two members seeking election in Colorado’s second largest city this November. Incumbent Larry Beer is seeking reelection in Ward 3, a seat he has held since 2005. Former City Council member Bob LeGare is seeking one of the available at large seats. Beer is the current chairman of the REALTORS® Small Donor Committee for CAR and is actively involved in a myriad of city and REALTOR® Issues. LeGare served on City Council from 1995-2003 and pursues a successful career in commercial real estate. Bob was also awarded CAR’s Political Service Award in 1995 for his many contributions to the real estate industry.

AAR will very likely be officially supporting these two campaigns in the very near future. REALTORS® everywhere are encouraged to do what they can to help fellow members get elected to political office in order to best represent the views of the real estate industry. Please contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com for more information about getting involved with these two fine candidates or to find out more information about how you can run for a position in your area.

Denver Waives Residential Permit Fees for Two Weeks in June

For a limited time, June1 - 15, 2009, Denver is issuing FREE construction permits to homeowners and licensed contractors making qualified home improvements or repairs to existing one and two family dwellings, which can increase the value of the home. This “HOME RENOVATION BONANZA” as Denver is calling it, is offered in order to encourage the improvement of existing 1 and 2 family homes, raise property value and encourage homeowners to stay in existing homes. Certain conditions apply to this offer. Much more information can be found here on the city’s website: http://www.denvergov.com/Building/tabid/434186/Default.aspx

SMDRA Makes Progress on Difficult HOA For Sale Sign Issue

The South Metro Denver REALTOR Association® is making progress on an issue that could be very difficult for the real estate industry. The RidgeGate West Village Homeowners’ Association is considering a change to their internal sign code that would require real estate for sale signs to include a rider which carried the Quest corporate slogan and logo. Quest is a telecommunications partner with the RidgeGate community in Lonetree, and provides built in high tech amenities to homeowners. SMDRA successfully argued last week against the proposal, citing the undue burden on REALTORS® forced to place other company logos on real estate signs. The HOA has agreed to postpone passage of the item and has pledge to work with SMDRA on this and other topics affecting the real estate industry. This positive news is great evidence of how successful a political affairs program can be, since a SMDRA member was the first one to alert the association of these pending changes. Grassroots involvement really works!

Energy Improvement District Legislation Pulled by Bill Sponsor

Late Thursday afternoon, CAR sent a Call for Action to REALTORS® statewide asking that they urge their State Representatives to vote NO on HB 1350, which was expected to be heard on the House floor today. Modeled after a program in Boulder which was supported by REALTORS®, CARA felt more time was needed to deliberate its merits before taking the program statewide.

HB 1350 sought to create a new Colorado energy improvement district, a statewide special district. The district would have imposed special assessments on eligible real property in the district on a voluntary basis, and issued bonds from the assessments to provide loans to district members to cover the costs of completing new energy improvements.

CAR learned on Friday morning that primary bill sponsor Rep. Joe Miklosi is pulling HB 1350 from further consideration. REALTORS® look forward to working with Rep. Miklosi and other stakeholders this summer regarding this legislation.

Incumbents Win Reelection in Castle Rock

Three incumbent city council members won reelection last week in the Town of Castle Rock: Ryan Reilly, District 3; Mitch Dulleck, District 5; and Joe Procopio (Joe Pro), District 7. Both Reilly and Procopio faced competition, while Dulleck ran uncontested. Reilly earned 256 votes to Bill Speights’ 155 and Thomas G. Whittemore’s 126. Procopio garnered 209 votes. Daniel N. Thomas Sr. earned 52; Scott L. Mace earned 65; and Brett J. Ford earned 161. Dulleck received 254 votes. Voter turnout for this mail ballot election was only 13.4 percent, with a total of 1,303 completed ballots counted.

The three men will be sworn in at the April 14 Town Council meeting. All will serve two-year terms. The new Council will choose a mayor and mayor pro tem – who acts as mayor in the mayor’s absence – at the same meeting.

RTD on the Verge of Asking Voters for Tax Hike

The Regional Transportation District board adopted a financial plan Tuesday night that assumes the district will ask voters to increase taxes to finish FasTracks. The plan is the "best scenario," according to Commissioners and is based on voters agreeing to double the existing FasTracks tax to complete the commuter rail and transit project by 2017. The board won't officially decide until August whether to put a 0.4 percent sales and use tax increase on the ballot.

The district now thinks it's facing a $2.2 billion gap to build FasTracks because costs had skyrocketed and revenue hadn't kept up with projections. The board has several options to deal with that shortfall, including cutting planned rail lines and transit service - or asking residents for more money to finish the project. At this time, it is unclear whether the board favors a ballot question in November of 2009 or 2010 if they decide to ask voters for more funds. Numerous surveys in the metro area show support for finishing the project.

Myriad of Tax Increase Possibilities on the Table in Aurora

As the city of Aurora faces a serious budget shortfall in future years due to the declining economy, a number of possible tax increases are being considered by city council. Voter approval would be required, but the council is busy considering options now before any tax increase is presented to residents.

Aurora’s revenue is generated almost entirely from sales taxes, keeping property taxes relatively low. In a time where consumers aren’t spending as much as usual, sales taxes can be an undependable source of funds. So, the city is considering the feasibility of special tax districts and perhaps even millage increases over the next few weeks at their study sessions. Last week, Council considered the merits of tying safety services funding to property taxes in exchange for lowering the sales tax rate. This week, Council will hear options for a Library special tax district as well as an option to extend but not increase existing property taxes before they time out.

Both residential and commercial real estate interests are watching these plans very closely. For more information on the city’s budgeting process, click here: http://www.auroragov.org/AuroraGov/Departments/Finance/City_Budget/index.htm?ssSourceNodeId=711&ssSourceSiteId=621

RidgeGate in Lone Tree Considers Tough New Sign Restrictions

The neighborhood HOA of RidgeGate in Lone Tree is considering new real estate sign regulations that will have a significant impact to the real estate industry. The RidgeGate West Village Home Owners Association (http://www.ridgegatecolorado.com/faq) will hold a hearing this week on April 15^th to consider a new sign code that requires a rider be placed on all real estate signs that includes the corporate logo and slogan for Quest, the community’s exclusive telecommunications provider.

While REALTORS® are used to HOA restrictions that require uniformity, this new proposal requiring another company’s logo and slogan on a real estate time is a bit different. SMDRA, AAR, and DERA are all watching this proposal closely, and have begun the process of communicating the concerns of the real estate industry.

Northglenn Rental Registration Proposal Fails to Win Support

In a big victory for private property rights and the real estate industry, a proposal requiring non resident landlords to register their properties and submit to inspections failed to advance beyond first reading in Northglenn last week.

The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association was actively opposing this measure, sending post cards to affected property owners, mobilizing members to testify at city council meetings and communicating their opposition to the council. During first reading of the ordinance, REALTOR® opposition was specifically mentioned, and a few on council expressed that they might want to communicate more with the real estate community before passing something like this. It is a tremendous victory, and a testament to the influence that active REALTOR® associations can have on their communities. Good job, NMDRA!

State Legislative Update

Elimination of Senior Homestead Exemption

In 2000, voters approved a property tax exemption for seniors who were 65 years of age or older and had owned and lived in their home for the previous ten years. The exemption applied to 50 percent of the first $200,000 of actual value. In 2006, the exemption was extended to veterans who met established criteria.

SB 276 seeks to eliminate the homestead property tax exemption for qualifying senior citizens and disabled veterans for 2009 and 2010 property tax years. By doing so, the bill’s proponents hope to provide the state with additional General Fund dollars in the amount of $91.4 million in FY 2009-10, and $97.6 million in FY 2010-11. SB 276 is one among several efforts by state lawmakers, aside from the Long Bill, to help balance the state budget. CAR will continue to closely monitor this legislation.

Groff Reportedly Will Resign

According to various media outlets, Senate President Peter Groff is set to resign his legislative seat for an opportunity to work in the Obama administration. Rumors began swirling last week that Sen. Groff had been offered a job working in the U.S. Department of Education. He has served in the legislature since 2001 and in the State Senate since 2003. In 2007, he made history when he became the first African-American to be elected Senate President. He is widely known in Colorado for being a strong advocate for education.

Northglenn to Consider Rental Property Registration Ordinance

The City of Northglenn will hold a public hearing on April 7^th to consider an ordinance requiring registration of rental properties owned or managed by off-site landlords. The ordinance, while intended to provide higher property condition standards for tenants, seems to treat owner occupied and non owner occupied properties differently. The idea would also require off site owners to pay a fee for registration and creates substantial penalties for non compliance. The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA) is monitoring the proposal closely, and will likely vote to oppose the measure in a government affairs committee meeting later this week. Interested REALTORS® can participate in this meeting at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 1^st at the NMDRA offices. More information about the proposal can be found here: http://northglenn.org:8000/webdocs/2009/council/20090305/packet/Draft_Ordinances.pdf

Denver Sets Meeting Dates for Zoning Code Rewrite Meetings

The City of Denver has established a series of meetings to introduce the zoning code rewrite to the public. Beginning on May 12^th, citizens will have the opportunity to comment on the new plan before the legislative process begins with City Council later this summer. Members of the Zoning Code Task Force and the City’s Planning Department have four main goals for these meetings: 1 – To report on the purpose and progress of The New Zoning Code. 2 - To introduce the context and form-based approach of the zoning code rewrite. 3 To demonstrate how these approaches support Denver's adopted plans like Blueprint Denver. 4 – To describe how the new code should be easier to use and understand for the general public. Meeting dates, locations, times, and other important information can be found at the city’s zoning code website: http://www.newcodedenver.org/

Aurora Finalizes Details on Vacant Property Registration Ordinance

The City of Aurora is publishing details about the recently passed vacant property registration ordinance. The new law is set to take effect on APRIL 4^th, 2009. A copy of the ordinance in its entirety can be found here: http://www.auroragov.org/stellent/groups/public/documents/article-publication/051707.pdf. Registration of the vacant properties can be done online. The registration form will be available on April 4^th and additional information can be found here: www.auroragov.org/vacantpropertyordinance.

Additionally, the Aurora Association of REALTORS® is working with the Neighborhood Services Department to create a document similar to the current HOA Status letter that will help real estate professionals and title companies track liens placed on properties associated with this new ordinance. One of the concerns during the debate over this proposal was the city’s lack of diligence in recording liens, thereby making the closing process more difficult.

DERA Supports Candidates in Castle Rock Election

The Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association voted last week to support two candidates in the Town of Castle Rock’s municipal election. The mail in election will conclude on April 7^th with the election of city council members in Districts three and seven. DERA interviewed a number of candidates in both of these races, and decided to support challenger Bill Speights in District Three and challenger Brett Ford in District Seven. Both candidates show a solid understanding of issues important to the real estate industry and come from business backgrounds. DERA encourages all real estate professionals living in Castle Rock Districts Three and Seven to vote for these candidates for the best interests of the real estate industry.

Centennial Making Progress on Land Code Rewrite

Today, (March 30, 2009) the Centennial City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a joint meeting on the progress of the Land Development Code Rewrite Project. At the meeting, City Staff and the consultant will provide an update about the Advisory Team's recommendations to date in the areas of:

Land use classifications; Ancillary dwelling units; Neighborhood character; Nonconforming situations; Nonresidential design standards; Proposed new zoning districts; Planned unit developments; The form-based code concepts that were proposed for the Arapahoe Urban Center

Centennial is moving towards a Land Code that combines neighborhood character, form, context, and use into acceptable land use classifications. This model is consistent with many REALTOR®-friendly smart growth initiatives, but the South Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (SMDRA) and the Aurora Association of REALTORS® (AAR) are monitoring the project closely in order to ensure that private property rights remain protected and future land values/uses are considered. For more information on the project, visit the city’s code rewrite website by clicking here: http://www.centennialcodeupdate.com/

State Legislative Update

Carbon Monoxide Bill Signed into Law

Governor Ritter signed HB 1091 into law earlier this week. The new law will cover all new residential construction and existing single-family and multi-family housing units offered for sale, transfer or rent. Beginning July 1, 2009, a seller of residential real property containing a fuel-fired heater or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage will be responsible for assuring that a carbon monoxide alarm is properly installed within 15 feet of the entrance to each room lawfully used for sleeping. No person shall have a claim for relief against a property owner or their authorized agent if a carbon monoxide alarm is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s published instructions.

CAR Weighs in on Energy Disclosure Mandate

As introduced, HB 1247 stated that a seller must provide the buyer with 12 months of energy billing and usage history for the property within 5 days of the property being sold. In February, CAR launched a statewide Call for Action in opposition of the bill unless it was amended to reflect that a seller was only to provide the information upon a buyer’s request. At the beginning of last week, HB 1247 was partially amended to include the favorable language, but was “postponed indefinitely” on March 19th, in light of real estate outstanding concerns, rendering the bill dead.

NAR Update

NAR Lauds Appointment of Stevens to Lead FHA

NAR President Charles McMillan released the following statement after the news this week of real estate professional David Stevens as the head of the FHA:

“NAR is pleased that David Stevens, an experienced, successful real estate and mortgage professional and president and chief operating officer of Long & Foster Cos., has been nominated by President Obama to lead the Federal Housing Administration.

“Dave’s background in single-family home mortgages makes him uniquely qualified to fill this important position especially during this very trying time. He brings a broad understanding of the importance of housing to the overall economy and the importance of the role FHA plays in bringing stability and growth to the housing market.

“We as Realtors® are very proud, and we look forward to working with Dave and his team at FHA to support and sustain the American dream of homeownership.”

Victory for Private Property Rights in Federal Heights

REALTORS® scored a big victory in Federal Heights last week with the defeat of a proposed rental property inspection ordinance. By a count of 5-2, the city council voted down a proposal that would have allowed the city to use reasonable force to enter and inspect a rental property, sometimes without probable cause. The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA) successfully argued that this constituted a violation of private property rights, as well as endangering someone’s 4^th Amendment right against illegal search and seizure. Further, the state addressed many of the concerns of the city by establishing an assumption of habitability for all rental properties at the time of lease by last year’s Landlord/Tenant Act. REALTORS® pledged to continue working with the city on the issue to ensure responsible ownership and property management for rental properties.

Vacancies on Denver Boards and Commissions

The City of Denver has a number of current vacancies on its citizen boards and commissions. We strongly encourage REALTORS® to serve their community by considering applying for these vacancies. Real estate professionals in many cases are uniquely qualified to fill these positions, as many are entrenched in the very fiber of our cities and towns. Current vacancies include:

For information on these vacancies, purpose and duties of the boards, or a form to apply, click here: http://www.denvergov.org/BoardsandCommissions/tabid/378942/Default.aspx. Also, your local REALTOR® Association wants to help you apply. Please contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com to let us know of your interest.

Castle Rock Elections Coming in Early April

The Town of Castle Rock will hold a mail ballot only election for city council positions ending on April 7^th. Three vacancies are up for reelection, with two of those seats having contested races. In District 3, Incumbent Ryan Reilly faces challengers Bill Speights and Tom Whittemore, While District 7 Incumbent Joe Procopio faces challengers Scott Mace, Brett Ford, and Daniel Thomas.

The Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association (DERA) is conducting candidate interviews this week and will have recommendations available to its members after Thursday, March 19^th. Recommendations will be made based on the candidates views on issues affecting the real estate industry. More information on the election can be found here: http://www.townofcastlerock.org/News.asp?NewsID=1356

State Legislative Update

State Budget

Having completed current year supplementals, the Joint Budget Committee is in the process of figure setting for Fiscal Year 2009-10. However, the March economic forecast will likely not only require them to revisit each of the Department budgets that they have already set before finalizing the Long Budget Bill for introduction, it may force them to once again open up the current year’s budget for adjustments. March 23 marks the required deadline for introduction of the Long Bill, but that deadline appears increasingly unrealistic. Economic forecasts will be released on March 20, giving JBC members just three days to make adjustments accordingly. More likely, the budget setting process will be pushed later into session, and more cuts for both the current and next fiscal years are likely in the state’s future.

Transportation Dollars

The Governor’s Office certified a second round of transportation projects to be funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act this week, giving the OK to $194 million for 30 projects mostly in the Denver metro area. Projects include $33 million for repaving C-470 in Douglas County, $18 million for redeveloping Union Station into a regional transportation hub, and $22 million for replacing the Interstate 25/Alameda Avenue bridge over Santa Fe Drive in Denver. Forty-eight projects have now been certified, with a total price tag of $339 million. In all, Colorado will receive more than $400 million for transportation projects and $103 million for transit projects. The Colorado Department of Transportation expects to begin advertising projects for contractor bidding next week.

NAR Scores Big Win

Last Wednesday, President Barack Obama signed H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Bill, into law. In doing so, he ended NAR’s eight-year battle to preserve the separation between banking and commerce. Specifically, this new law permanently bans large national banking conglomerates from entering the real estate business by preventing the Treasury and Federal Reserve, by rule, order, or any other way, from opening the door to such activities. It is fair to say that the economic downturn and failure of large lending institutions helped Congress understand the need for the ban. However, its also fair to say that NAR’s long term commitment to seeking a permanent solution for keeping banks out of real estate was a large factor in gaining this victory.

Mortgage Interest Deductibility Threatened

The Obama Administration released an overview of its FY 2010 budget plan in late February. Among proposed budget items is a provision that would reduce the rate at which taxpayers whose family income is at least $250,000 ($200,000 for singles) would benefit from itemized deductions. Currently, taxpayers in the 33% and 35% income brackets are able to reduce their taxes through deductions for mortgage interest payments, charitable contributions, local taxes and other expenses by 33 and 35 cents, respectively, on the dollar. Under the Administration's proposal, these individuals would only be able to reduce their tax bill by 28 cents on the dollar. The Administration estimates that the change would raise $318 billion over the next 10 years, and has targeted the funds for planned health care reforms. While NAR has supported and applauds the efforts of the Obama Administration in taking aggressive measures to stabilize both the housing market and the nation's economy, NAR expressed its concerns with the proposal's impact on housing values and the pace of economic recovery in letters to President Obama and Members of the House of Representatives and Senate. While only about 30 percent of all taxpayers in any given year itemize their deductions, more than 75 percent of homeowners utilize the deduction.

Aurora Approves Property Registration Ordinance

In a unanimous vote on Monday, February 23^rd Aurora City Council adopted an ordinance requiring registration of foreclosed properties with the city. The Aurora Association of REALTORS® opposed this ordinance, citing the undue burden that would ultimately be placed on purchasers of foreclosed properties, as well as the back end liability likely to be seen by real estate professionals. While the ordinance did ultimately pass, its final form was a significant improvement from the early drafts of this proposal. Aurora changed the measure to not treat vacant foreclosed properties to a higher codes compliance standard than occupied properties and also agreed to streamline the process the city uses to communicate with lenders, real estate professionals, title companies, etc regarding these properties. The ordinance will be reviewed again in the summer of 2012 to evaluate its effectiveness.

Federal Heights set to Consider Rental Property Inspection Plan

The City of Federal Heights will hold a public hearing before final consideration of a rental property inspection ordinance tomorrow, March 3^rd at 7:00 PM. The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA) has argued that the ordinance is wrought with problems and should not be passed. The proposal would mandate inspections by the city of rental properties of more than three units and allow reasonable force for entry into those properties. Opponents contend that other cities have found this ordinance to be ineffective, and that enforcement in a tightening economy is becoming more and more difficult.

Centennial Charrette on Urban Redevelopment Set for This Week

The City of Centennial is in the process of rewriting its land development codes (more information found here: http://www.centennialcodeupdate.com/). This week, the city will host a three day Charrette at the Centennial Civic Center to discuss and promote redevelopment plans for the SW corner of Arapahoe Road and Interstate 25. The results of the Charrette will be used to establish the regulations that will apply to the development and redevelopment of property in the area. On Wednesday March 4^th there will be a public meeting from 6-8 PM, on Thursday March 5^th the public is invited to attend the update with the Land Development Code Rewrite Advisory Team and on Friday from 4 – 6:30 there will be a public open house and preview of the work.

Interested REALTORS® are encouraged to attend any of these meetings at the Centennial Civic Center (13133 E. Arapahoe Rd).

DERA to Interview Candidates for Castle Rock Spring Election

On Monday, March 16^th, members of the Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association will interview up to nine candidates for two Town of Castle Rock city council seats. The interview team will question candidates on their views on such real estate related topics as foreclosure prevention, property taxes, private property rights, and city services relating to homeowners. If you are interested in becoming a member of the interview team, please contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com. No prior experience is necessary, and it’s a great way to become familiar with the candidates seeking office in your backyard.

State Legislative Update

Disclosure Mandates. HB-1091 “Carbon Monoxide Alarms in Residential Properties” This bill will require carbon monoxide alarms within 10 feet of each bedroom and make it a crime to remove the batteries except to change them. CAR convinced the sponsors to add several amendments to absolve Realtors® from liability. One will require listing contracts to include a clause notifying the seller of his responsibility to install the required carbon monoxide monitors. The second amendment releases a property owner, agent or installer from liability provided the monitors are installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the amendments were approved, CAR adopted a support position. The bill has passed in both the House and the Senate. Because the bill includes amendments, it will go to a conference committee before it is sent to the governor for signature.

HB-1247 “Homebuyer’s Energy Right to Know Act” CAR opposes this bill, which requires a seller to furnish 12 months’ worth of utility bills to the buyer. The intent of the bill, which was initiated by the Governor’s Energy Office, is to provide the purchaser with information about the home’s energy efficiency. Although a broker won’t have liability if the bill passes, it creates an unnecessary mandate on an already common practice among Realtors® and may leave buyers with a false sense of assurance relating to energy usage. CAR issued a call-to-action on Feb. 20, after the bill passed out of committee to be considered by the House of Representatives. It has been laid over until March 6^th.

NAR Fights to Protect Mortgage Interest Deductibility

A small section President Obama’s budget proposal released late last week has the potential to become a major impediment to a recovery in real estate markets across the nation. As currently drafted, the plan changes the Mortgage Interest Deduction by reducing the amount of mortgage deductibility on families earning over $250,000. NAR believes this proposed change in the Mortgage Interest Deduction will result in further erosion of home prices and home values. If this proposal is enacted it will lead to a new round of price depreciation, will cause greater distress on the balance sheets of banks as the collateral value of mortgage backed securities declines. A second credit crisis could emerge before the first one is resolved.

NAR is launching a multiphase plan of action to eliminate this provision from the budget plan. This week, NAR will be expressing concerns directly to President Obama, to all members of the United States House of Representatives and the Senate, placing advertisements in the publications read by Washington, DC decision makers. Additionally, NAR will be forming a coalition with other groups affected by this proposal. They will continue to provide us updates as conditions warrant.

Aurora Foreclosed/Vacant Property Ordinance Set to Pass

Next Monday, February 23^rd the City of Aurora will likely pass its foreclosed/vacant property registration ordinance. This proposal has been altered significantly since its introduction and is now far less troublesome to the real estate industry. The Aurora Association of REALTORS® (AAR) still officially opposes this ordinance due to some residual liability to the real estate professional, but the city has worked to answer some other objections. There will be an official policy written to allow the codes compliance department to treat occupied and unoccupied properties equally, alleviating concern that the ordinance was creating a higher standard of compliance for vacant properties. Also, the city has promised to work with REALTORS® in simplifying the bureaucracy associated with processing these properties at the time of a transaction.

Castle Rock Considers Foreclosed/Vacant Property Conditions

The Town of Castle Rock is beginning the process of dealing with foreclosed/vacant property conditions. At a town council meeting Tuesday, February 17^th, city staff will present a report that outlines possible actions for dealing with the problem. It does not appear that staff is ready to recommend mandatory registration of properties in foreclosure like the Aurora model. However, as they consider other options like liens, amendments to the building code and others, the Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association (DERA) will be working closely with the city to find reasonable solutions.

Centennial Land Use Code Rewrite Progressing

The City of Centennial has embarked on a comprehensive rewrite of its Land Development Code. This project should ultimately allow Centennial to welcome many different real estate products and land development models not permitted under the current code adopted when Centennial incorporated. While many of these goals are desirable, local REALTORS® will monitor and participate in discussions about this code rewrite in order to ensure property rights of land owners are protected. Centennial is considering a type of character based zoning, that emphasizes character, context, form, and other factors. Traditionally, land use is the over riding factor in considering zone districts. For more information on Centennial’s project, click here: http://www.centennialcodeupdate.com/

Bill Limiting Real Estate License Fees Dies in Committee

Despite CAR’s best efforts, SB 28, a bill to limit increases in real estate licensing fees was killed by the Senate State, Veterans and Military Affairs Committee. The main reason for the defeat of this legislation was that Senators did not want to hamstring the government’s abilities to raise revenues as needed. Even though the bill failed, CAR’s Government Affairs Division says there is an upside to the story. The debate surrounding the bill helped make legislators aware of how the Division of Real Estate Division handled the increase of real estate broker fees, the state of the housing economy and the people who make their business real estate. Hopefully, this proposal will help convince the Division that some advance notice as well as justification for any future fee increase is necessary for real estate practitioners.

National Stimulus Package Benefits Real Estate Industry

President Obama will be in Denver tomorrow to sign the Economic Stimulus Bill (The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, H.R. 1.). The bill was passed by both the House and Senate on Friday, Feb. 13. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) reports the bill includes a number of important housing provisions including:

1. Homebuyer Tax Credit – an $8,000 tax credit that will be available for qualified purchase of a principal residence by a first time homebuyer between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009. The credit does not require repayment. Individuals who purchase in 2009 using financing assistance from state and local mortgage bonds will be permitted to use the credit as well.

2. FHA, Fannie and Freddie Loan Limits – Revised loan limits for FHA, Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae. Reports indicate that the 2008 limits have been reinstated for 2009 except in those communities where the 2009 limits are higher. Additional increases in individual communities may also be available at the discretion of the HUD Secretary.

3. Foreclosure Mitigation & Neighborhood Stabilization – Funding for states and local communities to be used for neighborhood stabilization activities for the redevelopment of abandoned and foreclosed homes are authorized.

Aurora Vacant Property Registration Ordinance Passes First Hurdle

Aurora city council members gave initial approval last week to the vacant property registration ordinance currently opposed by the Aurora Association of REALTORS®. The ordinance, championed in part by Councilman Bob FitzGerald, passed its first vote of 5-3.

If enacted, the proposal would make lenders (owners) accountable for the upkeep and maintenance of foreclosed and abandoned properties through a registration process. During their study session immediately before the council meeting, the ordinance was altered in a few ways to fix a few problems. Council agreed to create an official policy at their next study session to enforce these properties to the same standard as any other property in the city. There was significant concern that the proposal was creating a higher standard for foreclosed vacant properties. The second and final reading of this ordinance will take place at the February 23^rd council meeting, when a full council is expected to be present.

Last Chance to Apply for Transit Alliance’s Citizens’ Academy

Applications are due on February 4^th for the Transit Alliance’s Citizens’ Academy. The Citizens’ Academy hosts a maximum of 50 participants over seven weeks to discuss the complexities of combining transportation and community development to support the regional success of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) across the Denver metro area. The program is designed to be very interactive and includes presentations from TOD experts, participant activities, and hands-on learning. The cornerstone of this unique program is that participants take their new knowledge and put it into action. All participants are required to design an individual action plan that they implement upon completion of the Academy.

The Spring 2009 Academy will meet for seven consecutive weeks from 6:00 – 9:00 PM beginning February 25 and ending April 8, 2009. All sessions will be held at the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce located at 1445 Market Street in Downtown Denver. To be considered for the Spring Academy, applications must be received by 5 PM on February 4, 2009. To learn more, or to apply for the Citizens’ Academy, visit www.transitalliance.org/Academy. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact Transit Alliance Assistant Director, Cady Dawson, at 303-880-8874 or cdawson@transitalliance.org.

Bill to Limit Real Estate Fee Increases up in Committee this Wednesday

SB 28, which would limit the Division of Real Estate’s ability to raise fees more than 20% annually will be heard in a Senate committee this Wednesday. CAR supports this legislation, citing the need for increased notification for licensees as well as requiring the Division to provide adequate justification for any fee increase. The bill is on the agenda for a meeting beginning at 1:30 PM in Senate Committee Room 353. Audio of the hearing can be followed live by clicking on www.leg.state.co.us and following the links to “Video/Audio Broadcasts of Current Proceedings”.

US House Bill Eliminates First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Repayment Requirement

The U.S. House of Representatives passed an $819 billion economic stimulus bill on Jan. 28. The bill includes a number of provisions of interest to REALTORS®. For example, the restoration of the 2008 Loan Limits for FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to 125% of median home price up to a limit of $729,750 and the elimination of the repayment requirement of the $7,500 first-time homebuyer tax credit. Note: The credit’s expiration date (June 30, 2009) is still in effect. NAR is working to have the date extended through the end of the year so that the credit can have a greater impact. During the week of January 5, the National Association of REALTORS® surveyed a sample of its members asking them to assess the usefulness of the first-time homebuyer tax credit as an incentive. 71% of the respondents said the repayment of the tax credit was the biggest obstacle to its effectiveness.

Program Aims to Ease the Impact of Residential Foreclosures in Denver

The Denver Office of Economic Development (OED) recently received $25 million in funding to launch a Mortgage Credit Certificate Program to prevent foreclosures and spur the revitalization of neighborhoods impacted by foreclosure. The program, to be launched in May, is funded through $15 million from Denver’s Private Activity Bond capacity and $10 million from the State of Colorado PAB capacity provided through the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008.

The certificate program will target homeowners with high-cost or sub-prime loans that are at risk of foreclosure. Additionally, the program will benefit purchasers of foreclosed homes that will be acquired and rehabilitated by the City through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP).

A Mortgage Credit Certificate provides residents with a tax credit for a portion of their annual mortgage interest. Unlike an itemized deduction, the credit enables qualified owners or buyers who owe federal income taxes to benefit from a dollar-for-dollar reduction of their tax bills.

Aurora Vacant Land Registration Ordinance Not on Regular Agenda…Yet

The City of Aurora’s proposed vacant land registration ordinance has not quite made its way to the regular agenda of city council.

The idea was deferred until next session, pending input from the city’s banking community. The measure, which would require lenders to pay a fee to register vacant, abandoned properties with the city’s Neighborhood Services department, has received mixed responses from Aurora’s banking, lending and business communities. The Aurora Association of REALTOR® is opposing this measure.

The next scheduled city council meeting is January 26^th, when the proposal could be placed on the regular business agenda.

Aurora Holding More Public Budget Meetings

The City of Aurora Continues to invite citizens in the ongoing discussion of budget problems. Two meetings scheduled this week are open to the public and are a great place to comment on what items/services are most important to the city’s well being. The meetings will be held Wednesday, January 21^st at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers (15151 E. Alameda Parkway) and Thursday, January 22^nd at 6:30 at Ethiopian Evangelical Church (15150 E. Evans Ave).

Aurora is asking its citizens to concentrate on three areas: Prioritize the city’s services, prioritize the city’s facilities and physical plant needs, and help consider new ways to create jobs.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors Legislation Advancing in General Assembly

HB 1091 – Concerning the required use of Carbon Monoxide Detectors – was heard in the House Business Affairs Committee earlier this week. As introduced, it will require that all single and multi-family properties for sale, rent or transfer beginning July 1, 2009 be outfitted with the detectors. CAR Legislative Policy Committee Vice-Chair, Sunny Banka, testified in support of the bill while pushing for amendments related to REALTOR® liability, sellers’ duties, and adequate notification.

CAR has proposed that the responsibility for installation of the detectors lie with the seller, not the REALTOR®. Related to the Listing Contract, additional amendments are also being considered that would require the REALTOR® to inform the seller of their duty to install detectors before the property could be sold; if the proper disclosure is made, then the purchaser will have no claim against the REALTOR® should the detector malfunction. HB 1091 is not expected back in committee until January 27.

Budget Issues Clouding Future Aurora Plans

As is the case with many municipalities, the downturn in the economy is affecting the City of Aurora’s ability to contend with the growing needs of its citizens for services. This Friday, invited guests from the city will address the Aurora Association of REALTORS® (AAR) Government Affairs Committee to highlight a program asking citizen groups to help prioritize the city’s efforts. All ideas are in play at this point, but Aurora is specifically asking groups to list the most important services and facilities they provide, and identify which services can be eliminated. They’re also considering tax structure ideas,debating the question of whether the city consider funding from property taxes as opposed to a less reliable sales tax structure currently in use. The possibility exists that the city will ask voters this year to consider special tax districts as solutions for things like recreation, parks, cultural facilities, etc. AAR is participating in this discussion and will monitor developments closely.

NMDRA Opposes Federal Heights Proposed Rental Inspection Ordinance

In an action at their December Board of Directors Meeting, the North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA) formally voted to oppose the Federal Heights Rental Inspection Ordinance as written in its current form. This ordinance would authorize inspections of rental properties and mandate minimum living standards. NMDRA argues that the authorization to inspect is too far reaching and in some cases does not require probable cause for an inspection to take place. Further, Colorado’s new law requiring a certificate of habitability for rental properties may already address the conditions stipulated in this ordinance, making it redundant and unnecessary. Surrounding communities with similar rules in place have found the ordinance to be expensive, unenforceable, and ineffective.

MMAR Participates in Discussion of Future Conifer Main Street Project

As the foothills continue to see more growth and development, the Mountain Metro Association of REALTORS® (MMAR) is participating in the discussion about the future of the growing community of Conifer. At the MMAR Government Affairs Committee meeting on January 12^th, REALTORS® will respond to a survey for priorities in the Main Street Loop project on US 285. REALTORS® are uniquely qualified to represent community attitudes and needs for things such as building design, infrastructure needs and landscaping attitudes for future development in the foothills. Land use, water and property rights are at the center of all these priorities, and MMAR members are eager to provide their expertise as the project moves forward.

Legislative Session Opens Today

The gavel drops today at the state Capitol in Denver for what promises to be a lively and interesting four month legislative session. The state budget, transportation funding, and job creation will all be big topics of debate in the coming weeks and months. Real estate issues will be our state association’s focus, as CAR watches for legislation pertaining to land use, regulatory issues, water rights, property rights and other matters affecting the real estate industry.

2009 REALTOR® Day at the Capitol

Join CAR at REALTOR® Day at the Capitol on February 17th and take advantage of your opportunity to discuss Colorado Real Estate related issues with your state legislators. This day is very informative, as you’ll learn of CAR legislative priorities at the luncheon and enjoy a session update. Later, CAR takes us by bus to the Capitol, where we hear from legislative leadership such as Governor Bill Ritter, Senate President Groff, and Speaker of the House Carroll. Your support with grassroots efforts like this is needed and speaks volumes as CAR continues to protect and promote favorable real estate policies in Colorado. For more information and to register, click here: http://coloradorealtors.com/car_events_main.asp?EventID=RDAC2009

2009 Schedule for Regional Government Affairs Update Emails

In an effort to provide regular information regarding regional government affairs activities, these emails will be provided on a bi-weekly basis. The emails will be published on Mondays with the next one after today’s update coming on Monday, January 19^th. This information will also be posted on the government affairs website www.gmdra.com

Aurora Considering Vacant Property Registration Ordinance

The City of Aurora is considering a proposed ordinance that requires registration of vacant properties by the beneficiary/owner/holder of deed or trust. It also would set minimum maintenance standards comparable to what is considered the neighborhood standard. The proposal specifically instructs corporate/out of area owners to provide maintenance or contract with a local property management/property preservation company to meet these standards.

For some time, sentiment has existed in the city to try and address the growing foreclosure/vacant property problem within city limits. Aurora seems to be hit more severely by the housing market downturn than other metro Denver areas. This proposal is the result of numerous meetings and work sessions by a variety of interests with the intention of supporting neighborhood property values and aesthetics by addressing the blight that often results from vacant properties falling into disrepair. The Aurora Association of REALTORS® is continuing to work with the city as the ordinance develops, highlighting the possible extra liabilities and responsibilities that may be placed on owners and real estate professionals if the ordinance passed. It will next be considered at a study session on December 15^th, when council members will decide whether or not to bring it to the floor.

Federal Heights Looks at Rental Property Inspection Ordinance

Federal Heights is proposing an ordinance that would provide minimum standards for rental properties (though it exempts owner –occupied properties and duplexes). It also would authorize the city to inspect these properties based on a routine inspection schedule or probable cause.

The city is working hard to shed themselves of a perceived stigma about the housing stock/living conditions around the city. After what they cite as numerous complaints, they’re attempting to pass an ordinance that would allow for inspections of rental properties and require minimum standards for rental properties. The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association is monitoring this ordinance closely, and has serious concerns about the proposal. As written, the ordinance would give search authority to the city that seems to be too far reaching. Additionally, there is a concern that the minimum standards for the rental property conditions are already addressed by last year’s Landlord/Tenant legislation passed by the Colorado General Assembly. This ordinance has been delayed until March of 2009, but remains a serious topic of discussion around the real estate community.

Down Zoning Marches on in Denver

Next up for the City of Denver’s ongoing adjustment of zoning is the neighborhood of West Washington Park. The final vote is schedule for December 15^th by City Council, and it seems to be a done deal. This down zoning will classify the neighborhood as all single family residential (R1 zoning) and eliminate the designation for multi family housing (R2).

The Denver Board of REALTORS® has expressed ongoing opposition in each of the neighborhoods where involuntary down zoning has been proposed, including West Washington Park. DBR contends that Denver should be excited about the growing trend of families choosing to live in attached housing, because it's sustainable, environmentally-friendly, and will attract families with kids who can enroll in the city's public schools. Additionally, during a downtown in the market there's no need for legislative action to slow development. The market dictates what can be built.

Transit Alliance Citizen’s Academy Taking Applications

The Transit Alliance is now taking applications for its 2009 Citizen’s Academy. This seven week program is designed to discuss the complexities of combining transportation and community development to support the regional success of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) in the metro Denver area.

The Citizen’s Academy will be a class of 50 participants who demonstrate leadership ability and a commitment to make future contributions to transportation, community development, healthy living, and improving quality of life in metro Denver, with particular emphasis on development taking place around transit stations both existing and future.

More information about the Transit Alliance, the Academy, and the application process can be found at www.transitalliance.org/Academy. Applications are due for this prestigious opportunity on February 9^th, 2009.

NAR Statement on Economic Stabilization Act

Today the House of Representatives rejected, by a vote of 205 yes to 228 no, the financial bailout plan negotiated by Congressional leaders. Despite this action NAR will continue to push Congress to pass this legislation and bring stability to our nation's housing and real estate markets. Leading up to the House vote NAR undertook several activities in support of passing the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 (EESA). NAR Lobbyists, Policy Staff and Regulatory Staff engaged in substantial efforts to make NAR's position known to all Members of Congress

Aurora Considering Registration of Abandoned Rental Properties

The Aurora Association of REALTORS® is studying an ordinance proposed by the city to address the condition of abandoned/foreclosed properties. The idea includes a registry kept by the city of who officially owns these properties, and the assessment of a fee for maintenance and upkeep.

There are many concerns about this proposed ordinance. Among them: There exists the possibility of a double standard for lenders/owners of these properties vs. the general public. Also, REALTORS® are concerned about pursuing an ordinance rather than an abatement program. Further, it’s possible that this ordinance could become a disincentive for lenders to lend in Aurora because of the complications.

AAR will continue to monitor it’s progress closely, and has invited Aurora officials back to the October Government Affairs Meeting for further discussion on the issue.

Still Time to Register to Vote

While nationally 73 percent of all REALTORS® are registered to vote, NAR is hoping for more. Part of our mission is to increase REALTOR® participation and influence in the political process in order to protect your business interests. To help achieve that goal, NAR has launched a voter registration drive among our members. If you are NOT registered to vote, or if you are not sure if you are registered, please click here.

Remember to support REALTOR® Party Candidates in the General Election on November 4th!

Meet Jefferson County Commissioner Kevin McCasky

Jefferson County residents are invited to come meet with JeffCo Commissioner Kevin McCasky on Thursday, October 2^nd from 4-6 PM at the Jefferson County Association of REALTORS® (950 Wadsworth Blvd). Commissioner McCasky has been a strong advocate for business development within Jefferson County and for improvements to our transportation system. This is your opportunity to meet Commissioner McCasky and learn his views on issues important to the real estate community.

Candidate Recommendations Announced for Colorado House/Senate

Below you’ll find a list of candidates that your local association and the Colorado Association of REALTORS® suggests for election this November. These recommendations are based on a screening of REALTOR® issues and the candidates stances on matters impacting the real estate industry. By all means, you are free and welcome to vote your conscience for the candidates of your choosing. However, if real estate issues are important to you, these candidates most closely align with the REALTOR® point of view:

Jefferson County Association of REALTORS®

• Ken Summers - (HD22)

• Dan Gibbs - (SD16)

• Libby Szabo - (SD19)

Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association

• Carole Murray - (HD45)

• Mike May - (HD44)

• Mark Scheffel - (SD4)

Denver Board of REALTORS®:

• Jeanne Labuda - (HD 01)

• Mark Ferrandino - (HD 02)

• Anne McGihon - (HD 03)

• Jerry Frangas - (HD 04)

• Joel Judd - (HD 05)

• Lois Court – (HD 06)

• Terrance Carroll - (HD 07)

• Beth McCann - (HD 08)

• Joe Miklosi - (HD 09)

• Peter Groff - (SD 33)

• Joyce Foster – (SD 35)

• Jennifer Viega - (SD31)

North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association

• Holly Hansen - (HD 31)

• Nick Kliebenstein - (HD 33)

• John Soper - (HD 34)

• Cherylin Peniston - (HD 35)

• Edward Casso - (HD32)

• Shawn Mitchell - (SD23)

South Metro Denver REALTOR® Association

• Spencer Swalm - (HD 37)

• Joe Rice - (HD 38)

• Frank McNulty - (HD 43)

• Laurie Clapp - (SD26)

Aurora Association of REALTORS®

• Kathy Green - (HD 36)

• David Balmer - (HD 39)

• Cynthia Acree - (HD 40)

• Karen Middleton - (HD 42)

• Nancy Spence - (SD 27)

• Suzanne Williams - (SD 28)

• Morgan Carroll - (SD 29)

• Mary Hodge - (SD25)

• Nancy Todd - (HD41)

Local Boards Announce Candidate Support for August Primary Election

After completing candidate interview sessions around the metro area in which REALTOR® issues were discussed, the following candidates are recommended to all REALTORS® for election:

Denver Board of REALTORS®

House District 02 – Rep. Mark Ferrandino

House District 06 – Liz Adams

House District 08 – Mark Bergles

Senate District 35 – Joyce Foster

South Metro Denver REALTOR® Association

House District 28 – Rep. Jim Kerr

Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association

Senate District 04 – Mark Scheffel

As always, your local REALTOR® Association encourages all members to vote, and vote your conscience freely. These recommendations are suggestions that take into consideration the candidates views on such topics as private property rights, real estate regulation, water rights, transportation, and other REALTOR® quality of life issues. Regardless of your political beliefs, make sure you take the time to vote on or before the August 12^th primary election!

General Election Screenings Coming in August

Local associations around the metro area will conduct candidate interviews during the month of August for the general election in November. This is a great opportunity to sit down with the people running to represent you in the Colorado General Assembly and at the county commission level. If you are interested in becoming a candidate screener, please contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com. Here’s the schedule:

Aurora Association – August 6^th & 7^th

North Metro Association – August 11^th & 12^th

South Metro Association – August 13^th

Denver Board – August 15^th and 19^th

Mountain Metro – Mid August/September

Jefferson County – Various dates in August

President Signs Landmark Housing Legislation

The NAR Supported H.R. 3221, the “Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008,” passed the House on July 23, 2008, by a vote of 272-152. On Saturday, July 26, 2008, the Senate passed the bill by a vote of 72-13. The President signed the bill on July 30, 2008. This landmark piece of legislation should be very beneficial to the real estate industry, including a number of provisions designed to stimulate the housing market. Among them: permanent GSE (Fannie Mac and Freddie Mac) reform including higher loan limits in high cost areas, FHA reform, a tax credit for first time homebuyers, and FHA foreclosure rescue. For specific details of the plan, click here: http://www.realtor.org/gapublic.nsf/pages/hr_3221_key_provisions

Wheat Ridge Retools Historical Designations

The Wheat Ridge City Council voted 6-1 to limit historical designation applications solely to the property owner last week. The move limits the power of the Wheat Ridge Historical Society to apply designations with the consent of property owners, making it a nice victory for private property rights. Until now, the designation could be applied for, and granted, without the property owner's consent. The Historical Society and City Council currently have nomination privileges.

Public Meeting-River North Greenway Master Plan

Denver Parks and Recreation will host a meeting on Tuesday, August 19^th from 6-9 PM at Muñeca’s Restaurant 4500 Washington Street to discuss more ideas for the proposed River North Greenway Master Plan.

The objective of the River North Greenway Master Plan is to generate a park, recreation and open space plan that sets a vision for the South Platte River and creates development, financial and regulatory guidelines for parkland along the River between the City of Cuernavaca Park on the south to Riverside Cemetery on the north. The project boundary for developing master planning proposals is defined as the South Platte River and all properties located adjacent to and/ or contiguous with the River, approximately 200 feet from the top of the riverbank in either direction. Please contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com if you are interested in attending this meeting.

Adams 12 School District Mulls Referendum

The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA) is closely monitoring an idea being considered by the Adams 12 School District in Adams County. The District will meet August 20^th to consider placing a Mill Levy Override and/or a Bond Issue on the November Ballot.

The voters of this district approved both Mill Levy Overrides and Bond purchases in 2000 and 2004. Preliminary polling data suggests that similar issues could pass this year, provided the school district gives adequate reasoning for the need for more money. Adams 12 continually produces some of the area’s most successful results in scholastic achievement, and if passed will use money from this referendum to build two new elementary schools and support programming needs within the entire district. NMDRA will continue to monitor this issue closely.

CAR Opposes Transfer Tax Ballot Question

The CAR Board of Directors voted to oppose Amendment 103 (Colorado Housing Investment Fund/Transfer Tax) per the recommendation of the Issues Mobilization Committee. Amendment 103 concerns the increase in the documentary fee on real estate transactions to fund affordable housing. While CAR supports affordable housing and has a viable non-profit foundation like CARHOF, CAR feels the biggest impediments for people to afford to buy homes are the down payment and closing costs, which would increase if this measure is approved. For more information contact Rachel Nance of CAR at 303-790-7099.

Primary Election Recommendations Released Soon

The Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association (DERA), South Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (SMDRA), North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA), and the Denver Board of REALTORS® (DBR) completed their candidate interviews for contested races in the upcoming primary election. These recommendations will soon be forwarded on to the REALTOR® Small Donor Committee (RSDC) and will be made public as soon as they are final. REALTOR® Associations make recommendations to assist members in their evaluation of candidates. Real estate issues and positions on these topics are given primary consideration when recommending candidates. As always, all members are encouraged to vote and give support to the candidates who rate highest on real estate issues.

Work Slows On FHA/GSE Reform In Congress

Since late last week, the Senate has been considering a housing bill that includes FHA reform (with permanent loan limits to 110% of local area median home price, capped at $625,500), Government Sponsored Entity (GSE) reform (with permanent loan limits to 100% of local area median home price, capped at $625,500), FHA foreclosure rescue, development of a National Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and an $8000 Homebuyer Tax Credit. The bill has stalled due to a procedural vote in the Senate. Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid (D-NV), has indicated that there will be no further action on the legislation until July 8 at the very earliest. Meanwhile, the House is still arguing for NAR-supported higher loan limits and several other amendments that the Senate has refused.

REALTORS® Meet with Congressman Perlmutter

This week, members of JCAR, NMDRA, and AAR will meet with Congressman Ed Perlmutter of Colorado’s Seventh Congressional District. Congressman Perlmutter has become a great friend of REALTORS® in his two years in office, and the meeting this week is to reinforce REALTOR® positions on issues such as FHA/GSE reform, Small Business Health Care Plans, mortgage interest deductibility, and keeping banks out of real estate. The National Association of REALTORS® is encouraging associations around the country to conduct meetings such as this over the summer to make certain our members of Congress understand the importance of real estate to the economy and make certain the American dream of home ownership is available to all.

Centennial Approves Home Rule

Residents in Centennial decided Tuesday that they want the power many other cities in Colorado have: home-rule status that lets them chart their own destiny. Though the results were not yet officially final on Wednesday, the measure was passing by more than 2-to-1, with almost 18,000 mail-in ballots counted.

Centennial had been a statutory city, meaning the city was under a statewide municipal code. Now city leaders can take a variety of issues to Centennial voters for approval. One of the key changes for Centennial is the ability to audit businesses on sales-tax issues. Some of Centennial's sales-tax revenue had been going to other neighboring cities, such as Englewood and Aurora, Noon said.

State Issues Mobilization Committee has Vacancy

The Colorado Association of REALTORS® is looking to fill an unexpected vacancy on its Issues Mobilization Committee (IMC). IMC will be very busy this summer addressing some of the more critical citizen-led initiatives which are vying for a spot on the ballot in November. If you are interested in applying to fill this at-large vacancy for a three year term, please contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com.

Concerns Over Denver’s Tree Preservation Proposal

The Denver Board of REALTORS® (DBR) this week sent a letter to Denver city officials outlining a few concerns over the proposed tree preservation ordinance introduced to city council recently. Chiefly, DBR expressed concern that the fee schedule proposed by the ordinance might be overly punitive to less fortunate homeowners and could actually serve as a disincentive for planting new trees for those wary of heft fines.

DBR also encourages significant outreach by the city’s Forestry Division in soliciting public input from homeowners, concerned citizens, and potential home buyers as this idea moves forward.

FHA Higher Loan Limits Call To Action

NAR supports legislation to make permanent the loan limits included in the economic stimulus legislation. Mortgage availability and affordability continue to be problems, and making the loan limits permanent will create stability in those markets and in our economy as a whole. Dramatically reducing these limits in more than 240 communities in 26 states on December 31, 2008 would throw mortgage markets into turmoil.

The Economic Stimulus Act retains the GSE current national limit of $417,000, and for higher cost areas in 26 states and the District of Columbia increases the limit to 125 percent of the area median, capped at $729,750. For FHA, the Economic Stimulus Act raised ALL the loan limits from a base of $200,160 and a cap of $362,790 to a new base of $271,050 and a cap of $729,750. The new GSE and FHA limits are slated to expire on December 31, 2008.

There’s still time for you to contact your United States Senators from Colorado to urge them to make permanent the changes to loan limits from this year’s economic stimulus package. To act today, go to the NAR Legislative Action Center Website here: Contact Your Senator Today

The Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority held its inaugural meeting Wednesday morning at Arvada City Hall. The Highway Authority was formed with the goal of constructing the last remaining piece of the metropolitan beltway, closing the gap between State Highway 128 in Broomfield and State Highway 93 at approximately W. 58th Avenue north of Golden. Public highway authorities are authorized by the State of Colorado for the purpose of financing, constructing, operating, and maintaining transportation improvements that cannot be undertaken by a single local government because of cost or location. The participating governments contributed $100,000 each as initial startup funding that can be reimbursed by the public highway authority.

Jefferson County Commissioner Kevin McCasky was named chair, Arvada Mayor Bob Frie vice-chair, and Broomfield Mayor Pat Quinn Treasurer of the group.

A proposal passed out of committee this week that may take the Denver City Council completely out of the citizen’s initiative process for city wide ballot proposals Currently, the City Charter gives the council only two options with a citizen initiative or referendum: approve it as-is or put it on the ballot. But council members are floating a charter amendment, which they want on the August ballot, to put the onus on the clerk and recorder.

The measure would eliminate the council's ministerial duty, and the clerk and recorder would have to place the initiative or referendum on the next available ballot once petitions have been certified. If this proposal passes, it would eliminate any perceived support (or opposition) of the Council on measures such as space alien commissions or other strange proposals that qualify for the ballot.

On Monday, June 2, NAR will be launching a Call for Action to all members targeting the entire US Senate. The Call To Action urges all NAR members to send a letter to their Senators urging them to make permanent the loan limits in the FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loan economic stimulus legislation. Watch your inbox on Monday for this very important message from NAR. It only takes a few minutes to follow the link and contact Colorado Senators Allard and Salazar to seek their support.

For questions regarding the legislation, you should call Meagan Booth of NAR at 202.383.1222

A ballot proposal to raise real estate document fees to fund affordable housing is still alive. If placed on the ballot and approved by voters in November, this proposal would raise the document fee on a real estate transaction from .01 to .05 per one hundred dollars of value on residential property. A similar proposal was rejected by the Colorado General Assembly this past legislative session.

The proponents of this measure wish to raise money for a dedicated funding source for affordable housing opportunities. They are gathering signatures now to qualify this measure on the November ballot. REALTORS® oppose adding an additional burden on one small segment of the public when the need for affordable housing is a societal problem affecting everyone.

Fannie Mae Eliminates Controversial Zip Code Policy

Fannie Mae is doing away with higher minimum down-payment requirements for borrowers in parts of the country where home prices are dropping.

The government-sponsored Federal National Mortgage Association said Friday it will require minimum down payments of 3 percent to 5 percent for all loans it guarantees. That replaces a December policy that required a higher minimum if the loan was for a home in a ZIP code with declining real estate prices.

The announcement comes as lawmakers near a bipartisan agreement on a housing bill that could bring stricter regulation for the two companies. Senators are considering tapping a fund drawn from Fannie and Freddie's profits to pay for a new foreclosure-prevention program.

Candidate Screening Set for Late May/Early June

Local REALTOR® Associations all across the Metro Denver area have set up candidate screening sessions for the primary election on August 12^th. Each association will be interviewing candidates where there are contested primaries about their views on such real estate issues as private property rights, real estate transfer taxes, and regulatory topics.

Your help is needed! More REALTORS® are needed to help screen these candidates and make recommendations. If you’re interested in meeting candidates personally and discussing real estate issues with them, contact your local association today or send me an email at nbokone@gmdra.com.

DBR Annual City Council Luncheon Set for June 5^th.

The Denver Board of REALTORS® will hold their annual luncheon with members of Denver City Council on Thursday, June 5^th at the 4 Points Sheraton Denver Southeast. Many City Council members will be in attendance, and the luncheon is a great way for you to spend time with our elected officials in Denver. The event, open to all DBR members costs $25 for the luncheon. Please call DBR at 303-756-0553 to RSVP.

Castle Rock Mayor Announces Bid for State Senate

Castle Rock Town Mayor Randy Reed announced he will run for election at the state level in a bid for the Senate seat in District 4. The seat is being vacated by outgoing Republican Sen. Tom Wiens, who recently announced he is not seeking re-election.

Mayor of Castle Rock since 2005, Reed is a Republican candidate who serves at the state level as a commissioner for the Colorado Civil Rights Commission. The governor-appointed commitment is in addition to his service on town council, an experience that made clear to the longtime businessman he has a heart for public service. If elected, Reed will continue to represent Castle Rock residents, but will add residents of Douglas, Teller, Lake, Park and a portion of El Paso counties to his list of constituents.

"One of the things I enjoy the most in being an elected official is being a public servant," Reed said. "I really enjoy serving the people of Castle Rock."

He faces a delegate vote at the General Assembly May 30 to see if his bid for state Senate is successful. To see their names in the August primary, successful candidates must get at least 30 percent of the delegate vote at the assembly. He will continue to serve on town council during his campaign as he awaits the outcome of the assembly vote.

Denver Votes to Limit Property Uses in West Highlands/Sloan’s Lake

After a nearly 10-hour meeting that ended just after 3 a.m. on April 29th, the Denver City Council approved a rezoning that will limit land uses of property owners and prevent the construction of duplexes and other multifamily dwellings in two northwest Denver neighborhoods.

The council voted 10-2 to rezone 53 acres in West Highland and 62 acres in Sloan’s Lake from R-2 (multi-family) to R-1 (single family), putting an end to so-called scrape-off redevelopments to make room for higher density multiple-unit properties. In passing the applications, City Council found that this rezoning is consistent with the vision of Blueprint Denver, the city’s long term vision for land use and transportation.

These applications were opposed by the Denver Board of REALTORS® because a great number of residents in the affected areas actually opposed the reclassification of their properties. Involuntary rezoning limits a landowner’s private property rights in how they can use their land and often diminishes property values. Real estate professionals all across the metro Denver area remain committed to the fundamental principles of smart growth, which accentuate high density, mixed use development centered around transportation hubs.

Ballot Initiative #109 Threatens Real Estate Commissions

In a surprising move last week, the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association filed to put nine measures on the statewide November ballot. Among them is a proposal to cap real estate commissions. In short, the proposal would impose a six percent cap on commissions for transactions up to $250,000; three percent for $250,000 – $500,000; and one percent for transactions above $500,000 (but no more than $500 per hour). The move is an attempt by the trial lawyers to move debate away from measures designed to limit attorney fees and onto debate about things like real estate commissions, CEO salaries, agricultural tax breaks and other business interests.

The Colorado Association of REALTORS® strongly opposes the measure, noting that commissions are already negotiable, regardless of the selling price of a property.

Franktown Movement to Incorporate Suffers Setback

At least 18 Franktown residents have repeatedly tried to gain official recognition as an incorporated town by using a territorial statute from the 19th century and arguing that the town once was incorporated. This week, a Circuit Court judge barred them from holding a mayoral election.

"The court finds and concludes that the plaintiffs will suffer irreparable harm through general public confusion and mistrust as to local government jurisdiction and authority issues if a municipal election is held and purports to control the area determined ... to be in unincorporated Douglas County," the ruling states.

Douglas County has tried to stop any action by the Franktown group in court because officials are concerned that a handful of people could wield taxing and land use powers.

PSF Contributions Need to Fight Bad Ideas

With the introduction this week of a proposed initiative to limit broker commissions, now more than ever your help is needed to protect the real estate industry. Portions of Political Survival Fund (PSF) dollars go to the REALTORS® Issue Political Action Committee (RIPAC), which works to support (or oppose) ballot issues that affect our business.

Ask yourself these questions: “What issues really matter to me politically?” Or “What proposals out there really affect my bottom line?” Is there a better answer than “A proposal that would limit how much money I can make on a real estate transaction”?

Now is the time to stand up for your industry. It is time to fight back and show a commitment to your profession. Now is the right time to make a contribution to PSF and contribute to the cause. Make out a personal check to PSF today and take it to your local association, or go online at Invest in PSF . If the real estate industry has been good to you, PSF is your chance to be good to the real estate industry.

Denver City Council to Vote on Sloan Lake and West Highlands April 28^th

Denver City Council will vote on the rezoning applications in the Sloan Lake and West Highlands neighborhoods after a public hearing on April 28^th. The hearing is scheduled for 5:30 PM in the City Council chambers on the fourth floor of the City and County Building.

The Denver Board of REALTORS® (DBR) opposes these zoning applications due to its public policy position generally opposing involuntary “downzonings”. Within these two neighborhoods, a large number of property owners actually oppose the downzoning of their property from R-2 to R-1, thus limiting the use and value of their property. DBR leadership has been meeting with members of city council to voice its support of private property rights and its opposition of involuntary downzonings. An article covering the issue can be found here in the North Denver News: North Denver News Clip

Ken Caryl Ranch Residents to Vote on Tax Increase May 6^th

The residents of Ken-Caryl Ranch Metropolitan District (KCRMB) will be voting through May 6^th on a proposed 2.5 mil property tax increase for capital improvements, maintenance, and general purposes relating to the facilities and services in KCRMB. Information in support of this issue can be found here: http://www.investinkcranch.org/; while an opposing viewpoint can be found here: Vote no in Ken Caryl. All REALTOR® associations in the area are monitoring this election closely.

Summer is the Time to Screen Candidates

This summer, all of our local REALTOR® Associations will begin the process of interviewing candidates for public office and making recommendations for the August primary and November General Elections. The elections will be primarily for State House and State Senate positions, but a limited number of municipal and county races will be reviewed as well.

Now is your chance to get involved. If you’re interested in finding out candidates’ positions on such real estate issues as private property rights, transfer taxes, land use and the like, get involved as a member of the candidate interview team. You can find out more information about the process by contacting your local REALTOR® association, or contact me at nbokone@gmdra.com.

Landlord/Tenant Relations

A measure by Rep. Mike Merrifield, meant to establish the responsibilities of landlords and tenants in rental agreements for the maintenance and care of the property, has been on hold since it was heard in committee on April 3rd. Despite negotiations prior to the introduction of HB 1356, the bill as introduced continues to draw significant concerns from the business and real estate communities. Rep. Joe Rice (D-Littleton) has serious concerns with the bill and is offering a number of amendments that address these concerns. As CAR continues to meet and negotiate with bill drafters and industry partners, we are continuing to seek clarification on rural, recreational properties and the single-family opt-out provision. It is expected that the bill will be back in committee next week.

Initiative #86 – Real Estate Transfer Tax

Initiative #86 has passed its first hurdle in making it on the November ballot. The proposal’s next stop is the Title Board, where it will undergo further scrutiny. As proposed, the initiative will look to increase the documentary fee on all real estate transactions by four cents per $100 of value.

As you know, CAR has resisted legislative attempts to raise the document fee during this year’s legislative session. This initiative, if it reaches the November ballot, will likely be opposed by REALTORS® statewide, including CAR and the REALTOR® Issue Political Action Committee (RIPAC).

NAR Raises Concerns about Fannie and Freddie Policies
On April 11, 2008, NAR President Dick Gaylord wrote letters to Fannie Mae CEO Dan Mudd and Freddie Mac CEO Dick Syron to raise serious concerns about a range of Fannie and Freddie policies that, taken as a whole, are hurting the entire national economy, not just the housing and mortgage markets.

REALTORS® think there has been an overreaction by the GSEs and others in the housing finance industry that, even in the short term and certainly in the long term, will cause harm to the organizations involved by delaying recovery of the housing and mortgage markets. Many small individual policy decisions designed to keep the enterprises financially sound, when layered one upon another, have created major impediments to healthy mortgage and housing markets.

The letters address three main areas of concern:

A wide variety of higher fees and other underwriting standards that make mortgages much less affordable.
Policies reducing maximum loan-to-value ratios (LTVs) by five percentage points for homes in declining markets.
Extremely tight underwriting standards for jumbo conforming loans authorized by the Economic Stimulus Act.

Copies of the letter can be found on NAR’s website by clicking here: NAR's letter to Fannie Mae NAR's letter to Freddie Mac

Candidate Screening on the Horizon

Denver Public Schools to Consider Bond Issue

Denver Public Schools leaders will begin community talks in April about their chances this fall of winning a bond issue likely to top $300 million. If school board members agree to go to voters, it will be the district's first request for building dollars in five years. It also is likely to be their most expensive.

The Board will convene a community group next month to begin looking at the district's building and repair needs and the possibility of a tax question in November. Board members, who will ultimately decide whether to go to voters, will need to decide by July so Denver election officials can be notified. DPS last sought a tax increase for buildings in 2003, when voters approved a $310 million bond issue. The district last went to voters in 2005 for funding for a new pay system for teachers. It also passed.

Boulder Looks to Limit the Size of Homes

Though not specifically in the Metro Denver Area, it is interesting to follow the actions of Boulder City Council as they wrestle with the question of limiting the size of homes private property rights owners may build. This update comes courtesy of our friends at the Boulder Area REALTOR® Association:

Boulder City Council backed away from an emergency action to limit home expansions at its meeting on March 18. A severe city-wide .35 floor area ratio was proposed by councilor Macon Cowles in an email posted on March 17. The proposal suggested that the .35 FAR would be an interim ordinance until the end of 2008 while city officials developed and adopted permanent regulations. That drew a firestorm of critics resulting in hundreds of emails to Council that reportedly ran 90 percent in opposition. In addition, a coalition of community leaders, including BARA, engaged in broad outreach that produced a significant number of these communications. The City Planning Board was scheduled to take up the interim ordinance this Thursday, March 27, but that was pushed back to April 3. That means the Council will not take the issue up again until its April 8 meeting, at the earliest, with possible adoption of an interim ordinance on April 22. It is now very unlikely Council will adopt an interim home expansion regulation as severe and restrictive as was proposed and it is likely such and interim measure will be limited to six months rather that the two years suggested in early emails. This issue is far from over and BARA will be very involved in the months ahead as permanent regulations are considered and debated. Our aim is to see very limited restrictions that address only the out of scale home expansions while respecting the property rights and well being of Boulder's home owners.

NAR Call To Action Seeks Permanent FHA Reform

On Tuesday, a Call for Action (CFA) was sent to all NAR members asking them to send letters to their House and Senate Members urging them to move the FHA legislation out of conference committee and to the President for signature into law. While the stimulus package President Bush signed into law last month did address the FHA loan limits, it’s a temporary fix, and the need for a permanent increase in the loan limits is mandatory to keep the housing market stable.

Over 53,000 letters have already been sent to Congress resulting in a 5.4% response rate. The current FPC response rate is 64.1%. While both of these numbers are a strong start in just a few days, we need to get those letters up to Capitol Hill! If you haven’t yet responded to the CFA, please do so and then encourage all of your fellow REALTORS® to do the same. (Reminder: do not forward the CFA email you receive. It’s encoded with your personal information. Instead use the “Tell-A-Friend” feature on the REALTOR® Action Center.) If you did not receive the CFA email, you can take action by following this link: http://takeaction.realtoractioncenter.com/campaign/fha_marketreform. Simply enter your email address and prefix – the system will know the rest – and then click “send this message.” A re-send of the CFA will take place later today (Friday) to those who have not yet responded.

If you have questions about the FHA legislation, please contact Megan Booth at mbooth@realtors.org or 202-383-1222.

Good News – Escrow Bill Dies in Committee

Senate Bill 162 died in committee yesterday Wednesday, March 5. Currently, real estate escrow accounts may earn interest or earnings credits that accrue to banks or title companies. Under the bill, consumers could voluntarily donate that interest to a new state foundation created to support affordable housing, ultimately creating a new foundation and mandating banks to pay a minimum of one percent or fair market value, which would potentially mean the end to viable foundations like CARHOF.

Sunny Banka, testified in opposition of the bill on behalf of CAR saying that “the association supports affordable housing and that the CARHOF program has donated over $5.8 million to affordable housing and over $75,000 has gone to support a foreclosure hotline.” She also stated that the interest belongs to the borrower, and that the bill presumes that buyers and sellers do not care what happens to the interest on their escrow accounts, which is not true. She cited statistics that over $700 million is already spent on affordable housing in Colorado. She also stated the bill unnecessarily creates bureaucracy when there are programs like CARHOF which serve the same purpose. Sunny is a broker/owner with Metro Brokers and serves on CAR’s Legislative Policy Committee.

More Good News – Governor Says No to Transfer Tax Bill

CAR Political Affairs V.P. Rachel Nance reported House Bill (HB) 1340 was pulled from the table after it was announced that Governor Ritter does not support the bill. CAR opposes this bill because it is premature to raise funds without having a completed statewide housing needs assessment. Further, the tax increase places a disproportionate burden on property owners to solve a societal problem that affects all of us. The availability of affordable housing is a broad based problem that requires broad based solutions. This bill would have increased the documentary fee by 500% on residential property sales and would double it on commercial property transactions in order to create additional mechanisms to fund affordable housing. Additional taxes certainly do not making housing more affordable.

DERA to Screen Castle Rock Municipal Candidates

The Douglas/Elbert REALTOR® Association will be interviewing candidates for the Castle Rock municipal election on Monday, March 10^th. There are contested races this year in District 4 and District 7, and DERA will interview all qualified candidates for those races on real estate issues. Castle Rock is conducting a mail only election this year, with all ballots due in by April 1^st. For more information on the election, click here: http://www.crgov.com/Page.asp?NavID=1095

Down Zoning in Denver Still Alive

Applications to down zone property in the West Highlands and Sloan Lake neighborhoods of Denver are still alive after last week passing out of the Blueprint Denver committee and now head to city council. The Denver Board of REALTORS® opposes these applications due to its standing opposition of involuntary down zoning. DBR does not believe that property should be rezoned for a lesser use against the wishes of the property owner. This proposal was defeated a few weeks back at the Planning Board level by a vote of 8-1, but has been resurrected and strengthened by the Blueprint Denver Committee. More details about the proposal can be found here: http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/78/documents/West_Highland-Sloans_Lake_Evaluation.pdf

JCAR Seeks Regional Support of C470 Plan

The Jefferson County Association of REALTORS (JCAR) is meeting with the other associations in the metro area (as well as other non-REALTOR® groups) to seek area support with moving forward on a plan to close the C470 loop around the entire metro area. Transportation is key to the area economy, and its effective planning and implementation is an important element to the REALTOR® principle of Smart Growth.

Specifically, JCAR is encouraging these entities to adopt a proclamation supporting the beltway and the inclusion of W470 on the DRCOG fiscally constrained transportation plan. The inclusion of the project on the plan does not address taxation or funding sources, but allows for the release of federally protected lands for future right of way/construction considerations to a transportation authority. For more information on the proposal, contact Susan Aldretti at JCAR saldretti@jcar.com

Chris Gates, one of the nation’s leading advocates for citizen democracy and civic engagement, will speak in Douglas County on Feb. 20 at the invitation of the Partnership of Douglas County Governments. The event, open to the public, will be held at Castle View High School (5254 N. Meadows Dr. in Castle Rock) from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. in the auditorium.

The North Metro Denver REALTOR® Association (NMDRA) will be hosting a "Meet the Mayors" event on March 13th at the association. Mayors from Broomfield, Westminster, Thornton, Brighton, and Northglenn are scheduled to appear and discuss new projects in their cities, real estate issues and other related topics. For more information, click here: www.ndmra.com <http://www.ndmra.com/> .

There’s still time to register for CAR’s annual REALTOR® Day at the Capitol on February 19th. This exciting program allows you to spend face to face time with your area legislators and discuss real estate related issues. Governor Bill Ritter, The Speaker of the House, Senate President, and minority party leadership are all scheduled to speak during the program. More information on the cost, program details, etc. can be found here: http://coloradorealtors.com/index.asp?dmtag=1

The Political Survival Fund is inviting members to come to a reception Tuesday, February 19th in honor of NAR Political Fundraising Chairman Moe Veissi and Member Mobilization Chairman Chris Polychron. The reception is from 5:00 – 6:30 PM at the Hyatt Regency Denver (Capitol Ballroom 1-3). Moe and Chris are in town to participate in CAR’s meetings on Wednesday, and the reception is your chance to talk with them about NAR’s political strategies, tools, and topics.