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City Cast Denver
Taxpayers Spent $170M On What?! Plus, Civic Center’s Controversial New Look and Drones for Xmas
Dec 6, 2024
Justine Sandoval, a politics and green chile correspondent, and Catie Cheshire, a Westword staff writer, dive into the scrutiny surrounding the Caring for Denver Foundation's $170 million in taxpayer spending on mental health initiatives. They discuss concerns over transparency and effectiveness in funding. The duo also explores the controversial redesign of Civic Center Park, balancing historic preservation with modern use. Other local highlights include the closure of Biker Jim’s and a nostalgic look at the upcoming Parade of Lights.
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Quick takeaways
- A significant investigation revealed concerns about the allocation of $170 million in taxpayer dollars by the Caring for Denver Foundation for mental health services.
- The proposed redesign of Civic Center Park has ignited controversy, especially regarding the balance between modernization and historic preservation of the Greek Amphitheater.
Deep dives
Mismanagement of Taxpayer Funds in Mental Health Program
An investigative report revealed significant concerns regarding the allocation of $170 million in taxpayer money by the Caring for Denver Foundation, a mental health funding initiative. Funded by a 2018 tax increase aimed at improving mental health and substance abuse services, the program has faced scrutiny for funding organizations that lack qualified mental health professionals. Many voters who supported this measure now feel disillusioned as the funds seem to have been mismanaged and directed toward ineffective programs. The report highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in how these crucial funds are being distributed, raising questions about the program's effectiveness in addressing mental health issues in the community.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode