December 2025 Update
Dear Ward IV Neighbors,
As we swear in new members to the Aurora City Council, I can’t help but reflect on my two years in office serving the people and families in central Aurora. I want you to know that my commitment to serving Ward IV remains as strong as it did when I took my Oath on December 4, 2023.
It’s not one I take lightly. The oath I took two years ago reminded me of the pride and responsibility I accepted when I took my oath when I enlisted in our armed services. It’s a duty to serve my country, my city, and my friends and neighbors, to strive to make our city a better place to live. A safer community for our neighborhoods and our businesses. And, a place where we can all afford to live comfortably. These have been my driving forces in the first two years of my term and will continue to be my focus for the next two.
As I reflect on my years since taking my oath, here is a short recap of my accomplishments over the past two years — initiatives and actions driven by your engagement, concerns, and partnership. Every effort has been focused on strengthening public safety, improving the quality of life, supporting our local economy, and ensuring Aurora remains a safe, vibrant, and thriving place to live.
1) Public Safety & Accountability
I sponsored the “Three Strikes” ordinance in Aurora, requiring all vehicle operators to have current license plates, valid insurance, and a legal driver’s license.
Under this ordinance, if drivers put our community at risk and meet all three violations, their vehicle will be ticketed and towed.
This important safety measure was championed after many of you sent letters and emails regarding driver non-compliance. Your efforts not only improved the safety and economic protection of your neighbors but also got the attention of Governor Jared Polis, who signed a law modeled after our Aurora ordinance that will ensure consistent enforcement statewide for license tag compliance.
To date, more than 1,000 noncompliant vehicles have been identified and removed from Aurora’s streets, and over 5,000 municipal citations have been written since the ordinance went into effect— dramatically improving safety and accountability.
I also supported tougher penalties for retail theft, dine-and-dash incidents, and repeat offenders — protecting businesses, workers, and neighborhoods. Additionally, I advocated for maintaining physical-fitness requirements for APD officers to ensure readiness, professionalism, and the highest level of public-safety response.
Public safety has improved on all levels: car theft, retail theft, and home invasions are down. These results are encouraging, and we still have more work to do. Our commitment remains strong.
As I’ve said, public safety is a non-partisan issue, which is why I’ve been proud to champion your ideas in our city and our state to improve the lives of our residents.
2) Protecting Neighborhoods & Quality of Life
I sponsored an ordinance empowering the city to contact long-neglected properties and fine irresponsible owners. This reduces blight, elevates safety, and protects property values.
To promote our natural resources and economic vitality, I passed a constituent-driven water-conservation resolution encouraging, not forcing, restaurants to ask before serving water and reminding residents to stay water-wise, supporting Aurora’s long-term drought-resilience and water-sustainability goals.
I worked with city staff to complete the sidewalk along Florida to Havana in front of Bella Vita Apartments, improving accessibility for residents and seniors. I also partnered with neighbors in DAM East to stop the demolition of a tree-lined street slated for replacement with a sidewalk, preserving neighborhood character while pursuing better, community-supported solutions.
These beautification efforts help to build pride in our communities, while improving property values and drawing new customers and neighbors to our local businesses and restaurants.
3) Strengthening City Services & Local Business
I led the resolution requiring most city staff to return to the office at least three days a week. This improved collaboration, customer service, and operational efficiency — while also boosting local businesses that rely on daytime foot traffic.
It also helps to improve and increase responsiveness to our residents seeking information and support from their local government.
4) Serving Ward IV with Consistency & Commitment
I hosted four Ward IV town halls, neighborhood meetings, and HOA conversations. I also spoke at Leadership programs and high schools in Aurora, sharing my experience as a candidate and elected official to inspire the next generation of civic leaders.
From removing abandoned vehicles and addressing trash concerns to supporting families, small businesses, and seniors, my office remains accessible and committed to results.
5) Leadership on Council Committees
I served as Chair of Transportation, Airports & Public Works (TAPS), Vice Chair of Public Safety, Water Policy committee, and as a member of Federal, State & Intergovernmental Relations (FSIR). Through these roles, I have partnered with state and national organizations to champion initiatives that make life in Aurora safer and more efficient, and to bring resources, expertise, and partnerships that enhance public safety, infrastructure, and city services. I also serve on the Visit Aurora Board, Havana BID, Aurora Economic Development Council Board, and the Buckley Regional Military Affairs Council.
6) Demanding Accountability in Youth Programs
I have called for clear success metrics and quarterly reporting for the city’s youth-violence-prevention programs. If taxpayer dollars are not producing meaningful results, I will continue to push for funds to be redirected to programs that do.
7) Proudly Representing Aurora
I’ve been honored to represent Ward IV at business openings, cultural festivals, safety briefings, and international delegations. Aurora truly is “A World in a City,” and I’m proud to champion the people and cultures that make our community extraordinary.
Next Town Hall
Please join me for our next Ward IV Town Hall on January 8th at Noonan’s, 6:00–8:00 p.m. Our new format will include 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 your faces 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: https://www.auroragov.org/city_hall/online_services
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 does make a difference. Together, we are building a brighter future for Ward IV and all of Aurora.
I'm wishing everyone a Happy 2026!
Your Citizen Servant,
Stephanie Hancock
CouncilMember Ward IV