Denver Mayor Michael Hancock gives first State of the City address on Monday.

In his speech, Hancock, who was elected last year, touted the city and the investments made here that would spur economic growth, development and innovation. He spoke about the U.S. Patent Office that will open its doors in Denver and the international flights from Denver International Airport to Iceland and Tokyo, the latter of which will soon be available next year.

The mayor made major announcements during his delivery on Monday morning. On the same day, the city launched e-Denver, a new website that will facilitate the processing of permits and licenses as well as provide accountability in the city’s spending.

“If you need to get a permit or license, you’ll be able to do that online. If you need to pay your taxes, you’ll be able to do that online, too. Want to see how the city is spending your money? Check online.

““e-Denver” saves you time, it saves the city money. It’s simply smart business. And that’s just one example of the work we’ve been doing since my first day in office,” Hancock said.

Mayor Hancock expressed his administration’s engagement in education related issues that are of importance to the Denver community, for example with the new Denver Children’s Cabinet. Also launched, ID cards for 6-12th graders from Denver Public Schools this school year, which will allow students to access the library and recreation centers free of charge. Drop-in Denver, will also be launched to provide support to at-risk students from dropping out of school. The Community College of Denver will also partner up with the city to host classes at various libraries and recreation centers.

He also discussed the administration’s support for business development in the city and also its focus on transformative projects in transportation, implementation and execution of sustainability programs, and continual partnership with Denver’s neighborhoods.

Among the noted difficult times surrounding Hancock’s first year in office are the Occupy Denver protests and the new law banning homeless persons from camping overnight. A major concern for citizens of Denver is the city’s safety measures. Events over the last years implicating the Denver Police Department and its role in what many have deemed “police brutality” is evidenced by footage of beatings and the reinstatement of those police officers who were involved in these incidents.

“There is no greater mission for a mayor than keeping the people of Denver safe, than fostering a strong relationship between our residents and our police department. And we are doing that. We are changing the culture at the Denver Police Department,” Hancock said.

He spoke about the importance of having police officers build a better and stronger bond within their district and restructuring the organization — crediting Chief Robert White. Hancock also mentioned the work of Alex Martinez and his role as manager of safety.

“We are building a strong foundation on which to deliver our future success. The region’s job growth, out of this recession, is one of the strongest in the nation. Our real estate market is rebounding. And we’re one of the top cities in which to build your business and career,” the mayor said.

“But it’s not enough. Our great city always strives to be better. We never give up. Join me in delivering more opportunity for our kids, better jobs, stronger neighborhoods and safer streets. We can do this, Denver.

“We can create a smart city, a world-class city where every single one of us is valued, where everyone matters. The time is now.”

Hancock addressed the group comprised of his cabinet, city council members and prominent members of the Latino community, and others, at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Sound off

So what’s your take on the current state of the city? Did Mayor Hancock hit the nail on the head, or is there something more that you would have liked him to address? Tell La Voz what issues in Denver are of most importance to you?

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