June 2026 Update
Dear Ward IV Neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who attended our latest Town Hall on May 21st. Remember every month from 6-6:30 we will have a networking half hour. Come prepared to share your business with us so we can support you.
Citywide Updates
Office of International and Immigrant Affairs
Special thanks to Minsoo Song for presenting the Office of International and Immigrant Affairs (OIIA) helps lead Aurora’s international outreach and works to build strong relationships with our diverse global and immigrant communities. The office serves as a bridge between the City and the many cultures that make Aurora such a unique and vibrant place to live.
A big part of OIIA’s mission is helping immigrant and refugee families successfully integrate into the social, economic, and cultural life of our city. They also created a Language Access Plan to make it easier and more equitable for residents to access city services and information.
In partnership with community organizations, OIIA supports programs like ESL classes, citizenship assistance, and leadership development opportunities that empower residents and encourage greater community involvement.
The office also works to support entrepreneurship and small business growth by connecting business owners with valuable city and community resources. Through its partnership with CEDS Finance, OIIA helps manage the Aurora International Impact Fund, which provides character-based business loans to support small businesses within Aurora’s international business community. Learn more International and Immigrant Affairs - City of Aurora
AuroraFest - The World in a City 2026
Aurora truly is “The World in a City,” and nowhere is that more evident than at Aurora Fest — our city’s signature celebration of culture, community, and connection. June 13th 3-10pm
Now in its 12th year, Aurora Fest is a free, family-friendly event that brings together the sights, sounds, flavors, and traditions of cultures from around the world. From live music and dance performances to food trucks, the Parade of Nations, an international marketplace, art, and activities for children, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
As one of Colorado’s most diverse cities, with more than 160 languages spoken in Aurora schools, Aurora Fest is a meaningful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the people and cultures that make our city so special.
We welcome everyone to come experience and enjoy this incredible celebration.I hope to see you there!
To volunteer, perform or be part of the Parade of Nations visit Aurora Fest .
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Colorado Freedom Memorial
Remember the Fallen.
We honor the brave men and women who gave their all in defense of our nation and the freedoms we enjoy every day. Their sacrifice can never be repaid, but it must never be forgotten.
If you have not yet visited the memorial, I encourage you to do so. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, this solemn and sacred space serves as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The name of every Colorado service member who gave their life in every American military conflict—from the Spanish-American War to the present day—is etched into the glass panels, creating a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom.
It is a place for reflection, gratitude, and remembrance—a place where we can honor their legacy and ensure their stories live on.
To learn more about the memorial and ways to support its mission, please visit their website.
May we never forget those who gave everything so that we might live free. Colorado Freedom Memorial
Ward IV Update
Colorado Uplift in Ward IV
Mayor Mike Coffman and I had the honor of attending the groundbreaking celebration for Colorado UpLift at the former Rising Star Church location on Dayton Street.
Colorado UpLift provides year-round, relationship-based programming that meets students where they are — both in and out of school. Through classroom support, after-school mentoring, adventure experiences, and post-secondary guidance, they are helping young people build character, leadership skills, confidence, and a vision for their future.
What makes their work so impactful is their long-term commitment to students and families. Their success is measured not just in programs offered, but in transformed lives, stronger communities, and young people empowered to become leaders in their schools, homes, and neighborhoods. Learn more and get involved visit - Colorado UpLift
The Nine Mile Bridge
Many of you have been asking when we’ll be having the groundbreaking ceremony for the Nine Mile Pedestrian Bridge project, so I wanted to share a quick update.
The contractor has submitted a preliminary construction schedule, and one of the first big steps is beginning fabrication of the bridge in Loveland. Since the bridge itself takes time to manufacture, that process is expected to continue through approximately September.
Because of that timeline, we are looking at moving the groundbreaking ceremony to August or September so it better lines up with visible construction activity on-site. This timing also helps avoid overlap with the Parker/Quincy/Smoky Hill improvement project happening nearby.
The exciting part is that progress is already happening behind the scenes. Our team will be making regular trips to the fabrication facility in Loveland to inspect the bridge as it is being built. If schedules allow, I will have the chance to see the building progress firsthand.
We’ll continue sharing updates as dates are finalized. Thank you for your patience and excitement as this important project moves forward!
City Council Meetings
Many of you have expressed concerns about City Council meetings. Some have shared that they are hesitant to attend because of the contentious atmosphere that has existed over the past two years.
I understand those concerns, and I would encourage you to see this activity for what it is: an effort by a small number of individuals to intimidate, confuse, and alienate everyday citizens from participating in their local government.
Every resident has the right to address grievances, raise concerns, and make City Council aware of issues affecting their lives. That right is fundamental to our system of government. However, there is a respectful and constructive way to engage in public discourse, even when we disagree.
It is also important to understand the proper role of government. The City Council's primary responsibility is to legislate and establish policies that protect and improve our community. Our work focuses on public safety, infrastructure, parks, economic development, housing, transportation, and the responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.
While public comment is an important part of the process, City Council meetings should never become a venue for intimidation, personal attacks, or political theater that discourages residents from participating.
Aurora belongs to all of us. Your voice matters, your perspective is valuable, and I encourage you to stay engaged, attend meetings, and be part of the conversation. Do not allow a vocal minority to convince you that your participation is not welcome.
I remain committed to serving every resident of Ward IV and helping ensure that our local government remains accessible, respectful, and focused on the work of making Aurora a safer, stronger, and more prosperous city.
Next Town Hall
Please join me for our next Ward IV Town Hall on July 9th at Noonan’s, 6:00–8:00 p.m. Our format includes a 30 minute networking session from 6:00 - 6:30. Bring your business cards and meet other entrepreneurs and business leaders
Come and bring a neighbor—it’s always so good to see you and connect in person.
Need Assistance?
As your Councilmember, I regularly hear from residents about neighborhood trash, abandoned vehicles, traffic noise, and more. If you have a concern, please reach out:
Email:
Online Services: Click Here
Thank you for staying engaged, lending your voice, and contributing to our community’s progress. Please consider attending Council meetings and sub-committee meetings either online or in person. Your presence, your voice does make a difference. Sometimes silence is deafening. Together, we are building a brighter future for Ward IV and all of Aurora.
Remember, positive change starts with you.
Your Citizen Servant,
Stephanie Hancock
CouncilMember Ward IV