Happy Labor Day!

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Dear friends,
 As this long hot spell comes to an end I’m reminded that even though we missed out on so many things we love this summer, we are likely closer to a vaccine that will end this weirdness that has been COVID. Since the end of the legislative session I have returned to my job, leading a local solar company. Like so many industries rooftop solar has been hit hard by the economic downturn and while the hours have been long and the stress high I am convinced that things will be alright.  The pandemic has been an opportunity to take stock of what is important to each and every one of us and for me the need to address the environmental crisis is more critical than ever. 

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As I walk through our district I’m ready for the boards to come down.  I’m ready for the restaurants to bustle with chatter and to see the stores full of customers again.  I’m already dreaming of the return to a normal that attracted so many of us to urban Denver. In order to keep that dream alive we have work to do. Let’s all buy local, support our restaurants, and do our part to restore confidence in our community. 

Did you know that small businesses in Colorado employ about 1.1 million people in the State? Small businesses are also the most diversely owned and operated businesses in the State. They contribute more then just economically to our society, small businesses are the center of community. Therefore the effects of COVID-19 on smalls business have been one of the many losses in our communities.

The Legislature passed HB20-1413 to help aide small businesses in $250 million recovery loan program. This program provides low-interest loans to small businesses to help cover costs they are facing during the pandemic. Small Business are the heart of my district and I would like to share some of my favorites local shops with you and encourage you to take a look for yourself! Of course let us not forget to wear your favorite mask while out exploring!

Crema Coffee House/ Bodega - If you are a fan of coffee like a majority of the population than I highly recommend trying their House Expresso and picking up your very own Crema Branded reusable cup! They are a great small business that has been able to maintain a warm and welcoming atmosphere through it all. 
Stem Ciders - Stem Ciders besides offering great ciders on tap, is now providing a reasonable and reliable source for hand sanitizer to help keep our community safe as we navigate towards flattening COVID-19. This is a liquid hand sanitizer (not gel or foam) made here in the states, and is the World Health Organization's recommended formula that kills 99.999% of germs. Available now in both 8oz spray bottles and gallons. Stop by our taproom to purchase, and if you are looking for case quantities for your establishment, please email sara.timmer@stemciders.com
MATTER - very well curated bookstore which offers some incredible titles for you—and if you live in Denver they have FREE CURBSIDE DELIVERY. Stationery Supplies, Books, Zines, all of them well cataloged online at www.shopatmatter.com
La Belle French Bakery - is dedicated to helping you bring your guests an authentic French experience. They use the only highest quality ingredients and artisanal methods to create our products and are still able to provide a cost efficient price to you. A native to France, Chef Julien has more than ten years of experience in perfecting the traditional French technique of creating pastries. From croissants to desserts, your guests will have a long lasting impression of their visit to your establishment. They also offer whole sale products and merchandise that donates its profits to charity organizations internationally. 

House district 5 is a vibrant district that is home to many amazing teachers and support staff from around the metro area. I want them to all know that their safety is priority one. I also want to thank all of you for the amazing work you do to educate and protect our students during these unprecedented times.

Denver Public Schools (DPS) will only offer remote learning through at least the first quarter, with school set to begin Aug. 24. The district said they then plan to gradually return to in-person classes with an option for families to choose to continue online learning instead. K-12 teachers will return Aug. 10 for a week of training, and then use the week of Aug. 17 to connect with students and plan for remote learning. 

The Gap Fund

"The Energize Colorado Gap Fund will provide more than $25M in small business loans and grants to boost small business enterprises that are the economic engines throughout the state. Sole proprietors, businesses and nonprofits with less than 25 full-time employees can apply for up to a $15,000 grant and a $20,000 loan for a possible combined total of $35,000 in financial assistance.

Applications and awards will be done in rounds to allow us to provide assistance through December 2020. The process will not be first-come-first-serve, it will be a competitive process that will help those in need receive priority access to assistance."

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This is for landlords and property owners applying for assistance on behalf of their tenants only. Tenants/residents are NOT eligible to apply through this program. Tenants must apply through the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP). Click on “TENANTS” here to find out more about this program and how to apply.

For Landlords/Property Owners to qualify for this program:

  • Your tenants complete the Tenant Certification of Need stating that they were unable to pay rent because they experienced financial need due to COVID-19.

  • The rent for the unit for which assistance is requested is set at or below the POP maximum rent listed below (POP Maximum Rents). All reasonable mobile home lot rents qualify. Reasonable fees in the lease may be reimbursed, excluding late fees, legal fees and fees charged for returned payments due to insufficient funds. Units or tenants supported with a housing voucher are not eligible.

  • The rental unit or mobile home park meets basic health and safety requirements. Self certification is required.

  • Your property is not in foreclosure (if it is, a receivership has been established by the courts) and your state and local real estate taxes have been paid.

  • You agree to all program requirements and provide the proper documentation. Full program guidelines can be found below. 

  • Landlords and tenants who are related by blood or marriage are not eligible to apply for this program. Instead the tenant should apply for rental assistance through one of our partners agencies. Click on “TENANTS" here to find out more about this program and how to apply.

To Qualify for the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP):

  • You were unable to pay your rent or mobile home lot rent because you experienced financial need due to COVID-19.

  • Your household monthly income is at or below the maximum income listed here. 

  • You have not already received rental assistance that covered your rent. 

  • You complete the application for assistance and provide all of the needed documentation.  

  • Other qualifications and documentation required will be explained by the agency you work with to access the funds.

  • EHAP can also be used for mortgage assistance for qualifying homeowners.

EHAP Complete Program Guidelines

TO APPLY
You must go through a local agency. The agency will help you with the application.

Dial 211 or visit www.211colorado.org to find the agency that can connect you to rental or mortgage assistance.