The HBA Advocate | Monday, June 2, 2025

In this edition:

• RedT Homes Submits PUC Complaint Against Xcel Energy
• Denver Mayor Issues Executive Order to Improve Permitting Timelines;
  JTF meeting tomorrow will include update from the city
• Xcel Energy Lunch & Learn: June 18, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

RedT Homes Submits PUC Complaint Against Xcel Energy

Local homebuilder RedT Homes recently submitted a letter to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission requesting an investigation into Xcel Energy over delays in servicing new residential projects and is encouraging other developers frustrated by the process to do the same.

According to RedT Homes, chronic delays by the utility have cost the company a total of 4,317 days and over $4 million in revenue. RedT realizes their experiences with the utility have significantly impacted their business and believes these are not isolated incidents. Last-minute design changes, prolonged periods without communication, and chronic delays for basic approvals have become common occurrences that have a direct impact on housing affordability across the Denver Metro area and need to be addressed.

RedT Homes is inviting other builders that have experienced similar delays to submit their own letters to the Colorado PUC requesting:

• A formal investigation into Xcel’s service timelines
• Clear service standards and required response times
• Penalties for unreasonable utility-driven delays

The company is circulating a template support letter for developers and builders available here. Anyone wishing to coordinate efforts, share experiences, or add their name in support are encouraged to contact RedT Homes at NathanA@redthomes.com

Denver Mayor Issues Executive Order to Improve Permitting Timelines

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston recently issued his first executive order in an effort to improve frustrating delays and reduce the cost of new development in the city. The new Denver Permitting Office has begun reviewing permit applications with a promise to process applications within 180 days. If the new one-stop shop fails to meet that threshold, developers may be able to recoup up to $10,000 in application fees. The new process will streamline permits from the departments of Community Planning and Development, Transportation and Infrastructure, Housing Stability, Excise and Licenses, and Public Health and Environment, as well as Denver Parks and Recreation and Denver Fire Department. Builders will also have a designated “Project Champion” at the city assigned to help applicants navigate the process to avoid bureaucratic roadblocks.

If the city fails to meet its accountability standard of 180 days, developers can bring their application to a review board made up of department directors for all the relevant agencies. If that board can’t make a final decision on the permit wi

thin 30 days, the city will refund some or all of the applicant’s permitting fees.

The office, which has an in-person counter open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays, will be committed to answering any questions on permitting within two business days.

The HBA will be receiving a detailed update on the new executive order and what home builders can expect to see in coming months from CPD and other agencies at our next JTF meeting on Tuesday, June 3, at 10:30 am. If you are interested in attending this meeting, please reach out to Morgan Cullen directly at mcullen@hbadenver.com and he will send you an invitation.

Xcel Energy Lunch & Learn: June 18, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

The HBA of Metro Denver invites members to join us for an in-depth Lunch & Learn webinar featuring Shayla Montano, Senior Operations Manager with Xcel Energy. The session is designed to provide a comprehensive look at the processes involved in coordinating with Xcel on residential projects. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to navigate key steps such as submitting applications, capacity checks, understanding project timelines and readiness requirements. Whether you’re a builder, developer or project manager, this session will offer valuable insight into working effectively with Xcel to help ensure your projects move forward smoothly and efficiently.

Space is limited so register today to reserve your spot!

HBA of Metro Denver Issue Tracker
Questions on what is happening in a specific city or county? The HBA is regularly monitoring the council and board activities in every political subdivision in the metro Denver area. Our Issue Tracker offers a great resource to learn about the issues being deliberated with links to agendas, packets and ordinances. The HBA of Metro Denver HBA Issue Tracker is available  to all members here.

HBA is looking for Members to Participate in Advocacy, Regulatory and Technical Committees in 2025

As a volunteer-driven organization, the HBA's Jobsite Safety Committee, Permitting Committee, Regulated Utilities Committee and Stormwater Management Committee help guide the HBA's events and activities throughout the year. Consider joining one, or more, if you want to build strong, long-lasting relationships and make a difference to your fellow HBA members, while sharpening your leadership skills. Please visit the HBA website for more information or reach out to Morgan Cullen if you are ready to participate.