☎️ Why 911 has you on hold

⛽ Colorado Considers Ban on Gas-Powered Tools

State lawmakers are currently considering a policy proposal that would ban the sale and limit use of gas-powered lawn equipment by 2025. The ban would only be effective in nine metro Denver counties, not statewide. The proposal is in response to the area’s current “severe violation” status for federal clean air standards. [Denver Post 🔒]

🚩 Denver Rescue Mission Back in Hot Water

Kyle Fischler, the former director of the Denver Rescue Mission, has filed a complaint against the nonprofit, alleging he was fired over his sexuality. A Christian nonprofit, the rescue mission is contracted with and receives financial support from the City of Denver. Fischler’s complaint notes that the organization’s refusal to employ non-Christians violates the city’s anti-discrimination laws. [Denverite]

• ⚠️ Flashback: The Denver Rescue Mission made similar headlines last November when Denverite reported anti-LGBTQ language in the organization’s employee handbook.

☎️ Denver Lags in 911 Wait Times

It takes Denver 911 dispatchers an average of 27 seconds to answer an emergency call. (The national standard requires that 95% of 911 calls be answered within 20 seconds.) During peak call times — rush hour and weekend nights — local callers are sometimes waiting several minutes for their call to be answered. City officials blame staffing shortages and an increase in calls for the delays. [9News]

🌱 Seedlings | Tuesday | 9:15 or 10:30 a.m.

Let your little one explore the vibrant sights, smells, and feel of the plant world at Denver Botanic Gardens’ family-friendly Seedlings classes for kiddos. [Cheesman Park; $11 non-member children]

🍾 Prosecco on the Patio | Tuesday | 4:30-6 p.m.

Any day is a good day for some bubbly! Enjoy $2 Prosecco sippers, plus other happy hour bites and beverages at French 75. [Downtown; Happy Hour Prices]

🍽️ Sunset Cinema | Tuesday | 6:30 p.m.

Film and food intersect at this delicious “film for foodies” event, which will feature an outdoor screening of “Tampopo” alongside themed food trucks. [Downtown; Free]

Lowriders on Car-Free Streets, Mile High Rent Burden, and Empower Field (Taylor's Version)

Today on the City Cast Denver podcast, host Bree Davies and producer Paul Karolyi are taking a look at the local news and discussing topics like the continuing conversation on transit, Denver’s huge rent hike, and Taylor Swift coming to town! Plus, they respond to listener questions and commentary.