July 2025
ANNUAL MEETING
On May 21, 2025, the DCA held its annual meeting with membership Board Elections were held. Members voted the following individuals to serve:
Kevin Westlye - High Flying Foods
Kathleen Schafer - Mission Yogurt
Maritza Job - World Wide Money Exchange
Kari Matthews - Skyport Hospitality
Mike De la Rosa - Delarosa Restaurant Concepts, Inc.
LeeAnna Frezquez - Emerging Airport Partners
David Lawrence - Clear Channel
Board President Dennis Deslongchamp retired. Under Dennis' many years of leadership the DCA achieved street pricing increase from 10% to 15%, COVID lease extensions for existing concessionaires, longer lease term for new RFPs, lease extensions for concessionaires not included in COVID extension but under existing RFP awards, worked with FAA, TSA and DEN to establish employee security entrance, and published freight elevator locations and expanded hours of operation. We thank Dennis for his leadership and wish him well in his retirement.
JUNE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
On June 10, 2025, the new Board of Directors met and voted to merge the positions of Secretary and Treasurer.
The following officers were elected:
President - Kevin Westlye
Vice President - Kathleen Schafer
Secretary/Treasurer - Maritza Job
2025-2026 Board of Director Goals
Increase member communication through newsletters, meetings
Re-launch DCA website to publish and archive information
Establish relationship with new Chief Commercial Officer once appointed to replace Penny May who retired July 1
Continue monthly meetings with DEN leadership
Work with DEN on potential child care facilities for airport employees
Work with DEN on time allowed for permitting and construction in new RFPs
Work with City Planning to increase communication, reduce time needed for permits
Continue engagement with City of Denver through consultants/lobbyists Fabby Hillyard and Ron Bernstein.
EPIC and DEN Leadership Meeting
On June 10, 2025, DCA Board members attended a meeting with EPIC and DEN leadership to review the latest findings from the ongoing child care feasibility study. The presentation included a deep dive into the Phase 3 Employee Needs Analysis, with a specific focus on the experiences and perspectives of concessionaire employees. Of the 69 respondents working for concession operators, a majority reported in-person schedules at DEN and a strong likelihood of using on-site child care or backup care if available. Many also indicated variable scheduling needs, with 25 employees requiring care outside of traditional 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. hours.
Key data also showed that over half of these concession employees have considered reducing their hours or leaving their roles due to child care challenges. The study highlights not only the demand for more flexible and accessible child care options, but also the impact such support could have on workforce retention and stability.
If you are interested in learning more or have any questions about the Child Care Feasibility study at DEN, please feel free to reach out to Kathleen Schafer, DCA Board Member.
DEN Revised Rule 47 Consumption of Takeout Alcoholic Beverages
In 2024, the State of Colorado enacted Senate Bill 24-020 (attached) which eliminates the automatic repeal concerning businesses with retail alcohol licenses. This means that, effective July 1, 2025, licensed establishments will be allowed to deliver alcoholic beverages or permit customers to take these beverages off the premises.
In response to Senate Bill 24-020, DEN has revised Rule 47 Consumption of Takeout Alcoholic Beverages (attached) to continue allowing the sale of takeout alcoholic beverages at all properly permitted and approved establishments within Concourses A, B, and C. If you wish to sell or continue to sell takeout alcohol, it is essential to obtain and renew the necessary "takeout and delivery permit" from the state. Click here to apply/renew.