Caring for Denver on a short leash amid controversy
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The mental health nonprofit Caring for Denver will continue to issue taxpayer grants for just one year under a new contract approved Monday by the City Council.
Why it matters: The decision comes as Caring for Denver faces scrutiny about questionable spending of the city's 0.25% sales tax dedicated to mental health and substance abuse services.
State of play: Caring for Denver's contract with the city to administer the fund was up for renewal with a proposed 5-year extension. But council members rejected the deal after a recent Colorado Public Radio investigation found that some of the $170 million in taxpayer dollars issued by the nonprofit went to organizations with no background in providing mental health and substance addiction services and others with unproven methods.
- Council members said they are working with the mayor's office to rewrite contracts with all entities managing dedicated sales tax dollars.
What they're saying: "By focusing on process and transparency we aim to provide a solid framework for responsible governance and equitable outcomes for our city," council president Amanda Sandoval said at the meeting.
- Councilmember Jamie Torres said the CPR investigation raised questions about fiscal accountability and transparency.
Between the lines: Caring for Denver has refused to provide a complete accounting of how it allocates taxpayer dollars and selects organizations for grants.
- In public documents, it made dubious claims about its reach and impact, particularly as the city's mental health and substance abuse crisis has worsened.
Yes, but: Multiple councilmembers defended Caring for Denver's mission, and organizations that received money spoke about the importance of their programs.
- Torres said organizations addressing mental health in the community "have the hardest job to do" and credited them with saving lives.
What's next: The council gave no timeline for when it would finish developing new rules to increase fiscal responsibility and transparency.