Denver proposal would expand eviction legal aid contract to $1.27 million
The proposed amendment would add $100,000 to 2026 funding and set a $1.27 million contract ceiling through 2028 for eviction assistance.
Denver is considering an amendment that would expand its contract with Colorado Legal Services for eviction assistance, raising the maximum contract amount to $1,268,737 and setting $480,000 in funding for 2026. The proposed agreement would run from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2028.
The proposed amendatory agreement would provide $389,500 in 2027 and $399,237 in 2028, in addition to the 2026 allocation. It says the added $100,000 would bring 2026 funding to $480,000.
Colorado Legal Services would offer full or limited representation in eviction cases, advice before a case is filed, education clinics, legal information, referrals and coordination with Denver County Court judicial officers. Services generally would be available to Denver households with incomes at or below 80% of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s area median income.
The contract sets a goal that 70% of served households achieve at least one case-related outcome and that 30% avoid an eviction judgment. Listed outcomes include dismissals, additional time to move, stipulated agreements, answers or other brief legal services, and vacated judgments.
The Community Planning and Housing Committee minutes record Resolution 26-1285 as approved by consent on Sept. 8. The resolution remains under “Approval Review” in the Legistar matter record, which has no final-action entry. The committee action therefore does not establish final City Council approval.
The agreement has blank signature blocks and says it will not become effective or binding on Denver until fully executed by the required city signatories and, if required by the Denver Charter, approved by City Council. The 400-household figure listed for 2026 is a proposed target, not a reported result.