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Denver officials are considering a proposal to add up to $24 million to three existing security contracts to enhance services across the city, including at homeless and migrant shelters.
Why It Matters: This proposal represents a significant increase in spending.
State of Play: The funding will be used to enhance security services across various city departments, including Arts and Venues, Clerk and Recorder, the Department of Housing Stability and Economic Development & Opportunity, and General Services, according to agency spokesperson Craig Wells. Each department will contribute to the increased spending.
Between the Lines: The security agreements will also cover eight housing sites and shelters for migrants, says Denver Human Services spokesperson Jon Ewing. The security personnel contracted by the city are not armed. Their 24/7 duties include foot patrols, reporting prohibited activities, and providing a reassuring presence for guests.
By the Numbers: The largest portion of the additional spending, $18 million, will go to Securitas Security Services US, expanding its existing contract with the city to $43 million to cover citywide security. The additional spending also includes $3 million each for Advanced Professional Security and Denver Metro Protective Services, bringing their total contract values to $3.4 million each. These contracts, which run until December 31, 2024, have provisions for emergency security needs for any city agency. The Securitas agreement may extend until December 2026.
Yes, But: The city aims not to spend the full amount, says Ewing. His agency, which oversees the newcomer program for migrants, has seen a decline in arrivals, yet security remains necessary.
What They’re Saying: “Security is incredibly expensive,” Ewing explains. “Whether you have 500 people in a shelter or five, you need security.” It provides comfort to people arriving from traumatic situations. Violence at a homeless shelter in March highlighted the need for increased security.
What’s Next: The Denver City Council’s finance and governance committee will consider the contracts on Tuesday morning.
