2026 Spring Messenger - Highlands Ranch Metro District

Metro District UPCOMING EVENTS

These upcoming events are presented or co-presented by the Metro District. See the full list of 2026 Metro District events at highlandsranch.org/events.

Pickleball Open House

Wednesday, April 1, 4:30-6:30 p .m .

Southpark Pickleball Complex-east courts

Arbor Day

Friday, April 24, 9 a .m .-noon

Kistler Park

National Prescription Drug Take Back

Saturday, April 25, 10 a .m .-2 p .m .

Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Highlands Ranch Substation

Spring Tree Recycling

Sunday, May 3, 9 a .m .-1 p .m .

Redstone Park near Highlands Ranch Stadium

Landmark Lecture Series:

The History and Legacy of the High Line Canal

Monday, May 4, 5:30-8 p .m .

Highlands Ranch Mansion

Toepfer Park Celebration

Wednesday, May 6, 4:30-6:30 p .m .

Toepfer Park

Mother’s Day Open Hours

Sunday, May 10, 11 a .m .-4 p .m .

Highlands Ranch Mansion

Memorial Day Service

Monday, May 25, 11:45 a .m .

Highlands Ranch Veterans Monument

Kids Fishing Day

Saturday, June 6, 8 a .m-1 p .m . Fly’n B Park

KidFest

Saturday, June 13, 9 a .m .-noon Civic Green Park

July 4th Parade and Fireworks Show

In partnership with HRCA

Friday, July 4

Parade: 8:45-10 a .m .

Highlands Ranch Parkway between Hepburn & Ridgeline Blvd . Fireworks: 9 p .m .

Highland Heritage Regional Park

Have you explored Cheese Ranch Historic & Natural Area?

Located in the northeast portion of Highlands Ranch, Cheese Ranch Historic & Natural Area is not only a peaceful location to take a walk but is also a local area that honors the history of Highlands Ranch.

In 1879, John Welte and his brother-in-law Plaziduo Gassner purchased the land upon which the Big Dry Creek Cheese Ranch would be built for $700. This ranch became an integral part of the early growth of Douglas County.

Cheese Ranch operations included the production of Limburger and brick cheese, as well as dryland farming. Producing both cheeses increased efficiency and minimized waste. Limburger cheese was made from sweet milk, and the remaining milk was then used to produce brick cheese. These innovative dairying and farming practices allowed the ranch to operate into the 1930s, with its most successful period occurring between 1880 and 1910.

Meet Your Local Government

The Highlands Ranch Metro District is responsible for:

• Water and sanitation services through an agreement with Highlands Ranch Water

• Recreation programs and services

• Developing and caring for parks, trails and natural open space areas

• Building community infrastructure, including major roads, traffic signals, storm drainage and stormwater management

• Managing and maintaining landscaping, fence and community entries along major roads

• Street lighting through Xcel Energy

• Community events and volunteer activities

• Managing the Highlands Ranch Mansion

• Operating the Highlands Ranch Senior Center

Metro District Board of Directors

Renee Anderson, Chair

Andy Jones, Vice Chair

Eric Rysner, Treasurer

Steve Kinkaid, Director

Rita Salcedo, Director

Nancy Smith, Director

Cali Wolf, Director

More than 1,500 kids play in the Metro District baseball, softball and T-ball leagues. The registration deadline for this summer is Tuesday, April 14.

In addition to contributing to the growing economy of Douglas County, Cheese Ranch also ser ved as a popular social center for local residents and visitors from Denver. Young and old would ride to the ranch on occasion, drink their favorite beverages and enjoy the delicious cheeses. It was possibly the first charcuterie boards enjoyed in Douglas County.

The Metro District is proud to share the rich history of the area on-site through recently refreshed interpretive signs so current and future generations gain a better understanding of those who settled our area and the unique industries of the time.

Renee Anderson Chair, Highlands Ranch Metro District Board of Directors

Puzzled about stormwater management in our open space?

Managing stormwater is an essential part of protecting our community. It involves building and maintaining channels, pipes, and open spaces that safely carry rainwater away from homes and businesses and into nearby waterways—reducing erosion and the risk of flooding.

The Metro District is responsible for maintaining stormwater channels located in our open space. To ensure these channels continue to function effectively, the Metro District follows a long-range improvement plan focused on reducing erosion and safeguarding nearby properties. Stormwater fees paid by residents and commercial property owners help fund day-to-day operations and capital improvement projects.

The Metro District doesn’t do this work alone. We partner with the Mile High Flood District (MHFD) on stormwater projects throughout the community. MHFD is a regional special district established by the Colorado state legislature in 1969 to manage stormwater across the Denver Metro area. Today, MHFD serves more than 1,600 square miles and nearly 3 million residents. Funded by property taxes, their mission is to protect people, property, and the environment through preservation, mitigation, and education.

This partnership has brought significant investment to Highlands Ranch. Since 1991, MHFD has contributed more than $14.5 million toward stormwater capital improvements and more than $700,000 for ongoing maintenance within our community. In 2026, the Metro District and MHFD will team up on a $1.35 million dollar project in Dad Clark Gulch. Additional details about this project can be found on Page 5.

The Metro District values its long-standing partnership with MHFD. Together, we’re able to deliver high- quality, cost-effective stormwater improvements that protect our open space and preserve the community for years to come.

Stephanie Stanley General Manager, Highlands Ranch Metro District

highlandsranch.org

highlandsranch.org

When you visit highlandsranch.org, you will find valuable information about the programs, services and activities of the Highlands Ranch Metro District.

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Metro District Contacts:

Highlands Ranch Metro District

62 Plaza Drive

Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

Phone: 303-791-0430

Fax: 303-791-3290

Email: info@highlandsranch.org

Metro District Parks, Recreation & Open Space Ser vice Center

3280 Redstone Park Circle

Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

Phone: 303-791-2710

Fax: 303-470-9516

Email: info@highlandsranch.org

Recreation Contacts:

Metro District Recreation Services

Phone: 303-791-2710

Fax: 303-470-9516

Email: recreationinfo@highlandsranch.org

Highlands Ranch Senior Center

Phone: 303-791-2416

Email: seniorcenterinfo@highlandsranch.org

Editor: Sherry Eppers, Community Relations Manager

Contributing Writers:

Lauren Appleby, Digital Communications Specialist, H ighlands Ranch Water

Jill Hall, Senior Services Manager

Courtney Kuhlen, Community Relations Coordinator

Kari Larese, Communications Manager, Highlands Ranch Water

Dave Parks, CPRP, Recreation Manager

Christina Perlinger, Community Relations Coordinator

Anne Rice, Community Relations Coordinator

Recreation Services staff

Senior Center staff

Property taxes: It takes a village

In Highlands Ranch, a homeowner with a home valued at $750,000 will pay $4,905 in 2026 for property tax year 2025. While the payment is made to Douglas County, funds go to several local government agencies that serve the community. These organizations work together to provide a wide range of services including road maintenance, parks, trails and open space maintenance, K-12 public education, libraries, law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and so much more.

The amount of property tax you pay is determined by three factors: home value, residential assessment rate and the mill levy in your community.

1. Home value is updated every two years and is determined by recent neighborhood sales.

2. The residential assessment rate is established by the state legislature. For property tax year 2025, the rate is 6.25% for local governments and 7.05% for school districts.

3. The mill levy is the property tax rate set by each government entity. Each entity must follow state statute and voter approved limits when setting the mill levy. The total mill levy for homes in Highlands Ranch is 98.821 for property tax year 2025.

The formula for calculating property tax is:

Property value * Residential assessment rate * Mill levy/1,000 = Property tax

The adjacent chart below shows the allocation of your property tax dollars to the various organizations.

To find more information about the services your property tax funds, please visit yourdougcotaxes.com

Director district map being updated

The Highlands Ranch Metro District’s director region map breaks out the community into seven districts. Each member of the seven-person board of directors must live in or own property within the district they represent.

The current director district map was approved by the Metro District Board in May 2006, following the consolidation of four separate metro districts into a single district. That consolidation improved organizational efficiency and streamlined governance.

Nearly twenty years later, the community is approaching buildout, and several development plans have changed over time to better respond to evolving housing needs. As a result, the number of eligible electors within each director district is no longer evenly balanced.

Colorado Revised Statutes C.R.S. 32-1-603(2)(a)(II) requires director districts to be, as nearly as possible, contiguous, compact, and equal in the number of eligible electors. A recent review showed that minor updates to the director district map are necessary to meet these statutory requirements.

Updating the map will affect which individuals are eligible to run for and serve in specific board seats; however, it will not affect how residents vote. All seven board positions continue to be elected at large.

Board members will consider and vote on the proposed updated director district map prior to the end of the year. Find agendas for upcoming meetings at highlandsranch.org/agendas

Community members are encouraged to share comments or questions during the public comment period at any board meeting or in writing by emailing info@highlandsranch.org.

Metro District projects around the Ranch

Visit highlandsranch.org/projectupdates for information on these and other upcoming projects. For questions, please contact info@highlandsranch.org.

Civic Green Park splash pad

The lower interactive fountains at Civic Green Park will undergo resurfacing and general repairs this spring. Improvements to the drains, new top surface coating and sealing gaps are necessary due to the age of the fountains. Work is anticipated to be complete, weather dependent, before the fountains turn on for the season during mid-May.

Civic Green Park playground replacement

This year, the 19-year-old playground equipment at Civic Green Park, 9370 Ridgeline Blvd., is scheduled to be replaced. Construction is anticipated to begin this fall To help renew aging equipment, the Metro District schedules one or two playground replacements each year. Staff considers the condition of existing equipment and available budget when planning replacements. Join Metro District staff for a public input meeting at the playground on March 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to learn more and share your feedback.

Dad Clark channel stabilization

Construction is underway on the channel stabilization project along Upper Dad Clark Gulch, from Wildcat Reserve Parkway to Summit View Parkway The Metro District is partnering with Mile High Flood District on this project, which is expected to be completed in spring 2026. Construction focuses on restoring and stabilizing the channel, improving overall drainage function, and protecting the long-term health of our open space corridors.

Landscape conversion projects

Two areas along Santa Fe Drive – at Town Center Drive and Highlands Ranch Parkway – will be converted to more water-wise landscaping this spring and summer These two areas were affected during the U.S. 85 Corridor Improvements construction project. Instead of re-establishing the previous water-thirsty bluegrass, new landscaping for the community entries will feature ornamental grasses, low-water Tahoma 31 turf, cobblestones, boulders and other more drought-tolerant plant material. Planning is underway for several other areas of parkway landscaping to be converted in 2026.

Trail addition

A new, paved trail spur from Royal Eagle Lane to the Saddle Ranch Trail south of Foothills Park is expected to begin construction the week of March 16. The Metro District is partnering with the Douglas County School District to create this new portion of trail. It will improve connectivity to

the Grand View Trail and will create a better connection for students in the neighborhood who will be attending Eldorado Elementary School (soon to be renamed Golden Ridge Elementary) beginning in 2026 due to the consolidation of Saddle Ranch Elementary School.

Highlands Ranch Mansion landscape improvements

This year, new garden bed enhancements and lighting will be added near the front historic drive of the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E. Gateway Drive. Additionally, plans continue for phased plantings to replace the 100-year-old junipers along the drive that are in varying states of decline. New understory Greenspire Linden tree plantings will grow and fill in as the older juniper trees continue to naturally phase out.

Toepfer Park improvements

Toepfer Park’s playground reopened to the public last fall and has been a hit with kids and families. Several of the unique, inclusive play elements were made possible by two local ThunderRidge High School graduates.

Katelin Fawcett and Bella Craner raised $7,780 in donations through their Project Play senior project for three pieces of playground equipment that were included in the new design: a roller table, an accessible Konnection swing, and an Aro spinning chair.

“What inspired us to [help with] this playground is my little sister is disabled, and we wanted to find a way to make playing on a playground more inclusive and accessible for more kids,” Craner said.

When replacing playgrounds, the Metro District strives to incorporate more accessible structures and play surfaces for all kids to enjoy. When approached by Fawcett and Craner with their senior project idea, the collaboration was a perfect fit.

Fawcett said they had a big sense of pride and amazement when they were able to visit the completed playground. “We’re excited to see all the kids come out and play this summer,” she said.

Join the Metro District for a Toepfer Park Celebration at the park on Wednesday, May 6 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. to commemorate and enjoy all of the park’s recent improvements.

Stadium turf replacement

Beginning May 18, the synthetic turf will be replaced at Highlands Ranch Stadium at Redstone Park (formerly Halftime Help Stadium), 3270 Redstone Park Circle. The replacement project is in partnership between Douglas County School District and the Metro District. Portions of the northwest stadium parking lot will be closed for staging during construction, and work is expected to be completed by early July.

Celebrate close to home at event spaces across Highlands Ranch

A look at event rental options for celebrations

Highlands Ranch Mansion

The historic Mansion offers a setting well suited for milestone celebrations such as weddings, anniversaries and formal receptions. With both indoor and outdoor event spaces, the Mansion allows customization of your event needs. It is important to note the Mansion requires clients to select from one of their approved, full-service caterers along with hiring a professional coordinator. The Mansion’s setting makes it an ideal choice for events that mark significant life moments.

Highlights:

• The Mansion can accommodate up to 250 guests.

• The Mansion is rented for a base of five hours of event time. Additional event time can be purchased. Before your event time, three hours are provided for client access and vendor setup. After your event time, two hours are provided for cleanup.

• The Great Hall, the Mansion’s largest and most versatile room, may be used for receptions, ceremonies and large meetings. It features high ceilings, exposed wood beams, and has accents of

Highlands Ranch Senior Center

The Senior Center provides flexible event spaces best suited for birthday and anniversary celebrations, graduation or retirement parties, club gatherings and family events. Its central location and tasteful amenities make it an affordable option for a variety of private events.

Highlights:

• A large multipurpose area, with maximum capacity of 240. The multipurpose area can be divided into three rooms, with rentals available for one, two or all three rooms.

• Meeting rooms, with capacities ranging from 25 to 95.

• Hourly/package rates are available.

Parks and outdoor shelters

Highlands Ranch parks and outdoor shelters offer ideal settings for casual celebrations during both spring and summer months. These spaces are commonly used for end-of-season sports team gatherings, birthday parties, graduations and family reunions. Outdoor shelters provide open-air environments that provide relaxed gatherings while offering amenities designed for group use. With locations across the community, parks and shelters make it easy to host outdoor events close to home.

Highlights:

• Community parks accommodate 40 to 100+ people; neighborhood parks accommodate up to 40 people. Please note, events of more than 100 people may require a special Metro District event permit.

• All facilities are available for use on a first-come, firstser ved basis unless they are reserved.

• Picnic Packs are outdoor games you can reserve to enhance your party’s entertainment. The Metro District’s Picnic Packs vary from volleyball to horseshoes, to games for the youngest crowd in mind.

With event spaces located throughout Highlands Ranch, residents and guests have a variety of options when planning celebrations of all kinds. From formal venues to outdoor gathering areas, our facilities offer accessible and convenient settings for life’s milestones. Learn more about event rentals at highlandsranch.org

Enjoy America 250-Colorado 150 community events

Throughout 2026, communities across the state are taking part in a once-in-ageneration commemoration, honoring the 250th anniversary of American independence and the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood Check out the statewide calendar that highlights events celebrating history, culture and communities Visit colorado.com/ am250-co150-events

A Mother’s Day tradition at the

Mansion

Sunday, May 10, 11 a .m . - 4 p .m . Free admission, self-guided tours, mimosa bar

At the Highlands Ranch Mansion, Mother’s Day Open Hours has become a community tradition, offering a meaningful way for families and guests to celebrate in a place that has long brought people together Each spring, families are invited to spend Mother’s Day at the Mansion in a welcoming and relaxed setting close to home

With free admission and an open house format, the event removes the pressure of planning and allows guests to enjoy the day at their own pace Visitors are invited to explore the interior of the 27,000-squarefoot Mansion through self-guided tours . Docents will be stationed throughout the home to answer questions and share local history Guests are encouraged to stop by the bar, where mimosas will be available for purchase While food will not be provided, guests are welcome to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the front lawn and take in the beauty of the Mansion grounds .

Historic Park: A new chapter for Highlands Ranch

The Metro District is thrilled to share a milestone decades in the making: the acquisition of nearly 200 acres of land adjacent to the Highlands Ranch Mansion – land that has been set aside for this very purpose since the community’s earliest days more than 45 years ago.

Originally envisioned as the Future Historic Park, this special place was always meant to be more than open space. It was designed to celebrate the history of Highlands Ranch while creating a special place for connecting with nature and providing educational opportunities for all ages.

How the Historic Park will take shape

The development of the Historic Park will unfold in three thoughtfully planned phases -- each one shaped by community involvement:

1. Planning: Listening and learning together

This first phase is all about you. The Metro District will focus on educating and engaging the community, gathering ideas, and learning what residents, local businesses, and Douglas County partners want the Historic Park to become. Using this feedback, a consultant will help develop a conceptual plan that outlines potential amenities, estimated construction costs, and a long-term operational approach. Before any work begins, the community will have a chance to review and comment on this conceptual vision.

2. Design: Bringing the vision to life

Once the conceptual plan is refined, the project will move into final design. This phase sharpens details, improves cost accuracy, and further evaluates how the park will operate. Community feedback will continue to play an important role as the final design takes shape.

3. Construction: Turning plans into place

Construction timing and phasing will be determined once designs are complete. The Metro District will explore whether amenities are built all at once or introduced over time -- always with flexibility and long-term value in mind.

Be part of the process

The Historic Park is being created with the community, not just for it. There will be many opportunities to share ideas, offer feedback, and stay connected as plans develop.

To receive updates, send an email to info@highlandsranch.org and request to be added to the Historic Park eNewsletter. Project news and engagement opportunities will also be shared on our website at highlandsranch.org, and through social media channels.

This land has been waiting for decades. Now, together, we get to imagine what it becomes.

Celebrating 45 years of community

building

Highlands Ranch celebrates a milestone this year – the 45th anniversary of our community. The community’s original developer, Mission Viejo Company, had a master plan for the 22,000 acres that would become Highlands Ranch.

The plan included:

• 50% development

• 40% open space

• 10% community use

Mission Viejo Company founded organizations to provide services to the growing community out on the prairie. They established a special district for water & sanitation services (now Highlands Ranch Water) and a metropolitan district (today’s Highlands Ranch Metro District) to build the growing community’s infrastructure.

They also worked with and gained support from the Douglas County School District, the Douglas County Libraries and the Douglas County Sheriff's Office to provide services to the community that would one day grow to more than 103,000 people.

Over that time, Highlands Ranch has been recognized as an award-winning master planned community as multiple generations of families have called Highlands Ranch home.

Follow the Metro District on Facebook to see more flashback photos and learn more about the early days and the thoughtful planning that was invested in Highlands Ranch over the past four decades.

If you have photos from the last 45 years to share, please send them to Sherry Eppers at seppers@highlandsranch.org.

Citizens Academy class of 2026 graduates

Congratulations to our recent graduates of the 2026 Highlands Ranch Citizens Academy. The program, established by the Metro District in 2020 aims to build the civic capacity of Highlands Ranch residents by educating about key topics and municipal service providers in our community.

Visit highlandsranch.org/signmeup to learn more details and register

For more information about program specific details, please contact 303-791-2710 or recreationinfo@highlandsranch .org . Scholarships are available for youth recreation programs, thanks to support from the Highlands Ranch Park & Recreation Foundation . For information, visit highlandsranch.org/scholarships

YOUTH SPORTS

Rugby Camp

Ages 5-15

Learn the basics of rugby, including passing, catching and tackling from our community partners at Ranch Rugby . Required equipment: Mouthguard and cleats .

Fee: Resident: $40 Nonresident: $46

Registration deadline: Monday, March 30

Saturday, April 11 9 a .m .-noon

Highlands Ranch Stadium at Redstone Park

Lacrosse

Introductory Lacrosse Program

Ages 6-14

There’s no better way to learn the game and proper use of a lacrosse stick than an introductory lacrosse clinic for new players . This is a four-week introductory program Lacrosse sticks are provided No additional equipment is required

Fee: Resident:$75 Nonresident: $86

April 4, 11, 18, 25 10-11 a .m Marcy Park lower field

Registration deadline: Friday, March 27

July 11, 18, 25, Aug 1 10-11 a .m Marcy Park lower field

Registration deadline: Friday, July 3

Sept 12, 19, 26, Oct 3 10-11 a .m Marcy Park lower field

Registration deadline: Friday, Sept. 4

Ultimate Frisbee Camp

Ages 8-13

This five-day camp is offered in partnership with the Colorado Apex Learn the game of Ultimate Frisbee from certified instructors in a fun, safe sports camp setting . Each player will receive a Frisbee and free youth ticket to an Apex home game

Fee: Resident: $190 Nonresident: $218

Registration deadline: Monday, June 8

June 15-19 9 a .m .-noon Falcon Park

Youth Pickleball Camp

Ages 9-13

Fee: Resident: $156 Nonresident: $180 Southpark Pickleball Complex

Registration deadline: Week before camp begins June 15-18 Ages 9-11 8:30-11:30 a .m . July 20-23 Ages 12-14 8:30-11:30 a .m .

T-ball, Baseball & Softball

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER FOR THE 2026 SEASON

Youth T-ball, Baseball, & Girls Softball – Summer

Ages 4-14 (Age as of July 31, 2026)

Registration deadline: Tuesday, April 14

Fee: Ranges from $100 - $202 depending on age and league division . View all league details and full descriptions at highlandsranch.org/ baseballsoftball or call recreation staff at 303-791-2710

Weekday T-ball League – Ages 4-6 (Age as of July 31, 2026)

If your busy schedule means you would like to know your T-ball schedule in advance, we have a great option for you This T-ball league has no Saturday games .

Fee: Resident: $100 Nonresident: $115

Registration deadline: Friday, May 1 or until leagues are full

Choose either a Monday/Wednesday league or a Tuesday/Thursday league The season runs June 1-July 23

Baseball & Softball Clinics

The Metro District is proud to offer skills, pitching clinics and top-notch instruction in association with HitStreak .

Required equipment: glove, bat, helmet, hat and water bottle (Some shared equipment can be supplied .)

Spring Training Clinic – Ages 6-14

Fee: Resident: $60 Nonresident: $69

Registration deadline: Monday, April 27

Sunday, May 3 9 – 11 a .m Redstone Park

Baseball/Softball Pitching Clinic – Ages 7-14

Stick around for another hour to learn the fundamentals of pitching

Fee: Resident: $30 Nonresident: $35

Registration deadline: Monday, April 27

Sunday, May 3 11 a .m . – noon Redstone Park

Baseball & Softball Summer Camps

Ages 7-14

Fee: Resident: $150 Nonresident: $173

Registration deadline: One week before the camp begins

Softball June 8-12 9 a .m .-noon Redstone Park Baseball June 22-26 9 a .m .-noon

Fall Competitive Youth Baseball – Team Registration Only

Ages 7-14 (Age as of May 1, 2027)

This is a competitive baseball league for above average to advanced players/teams only All games are played on Sundays Practices begin the week of Aug . 3 Games begin Aug . 16

Registration begins: Monday, June 8

Registration deadline: Tuesday, July 21

Team Fee:* 7-8-year-olds - $1,900 9-10-year-olds - $2,100 11-14-year-olds - $2,300

$175 Deposit due at time of registration; remainder of balance due by Aug . 14

To register a team, contact Beau Bressler at 720-240-5934

Individual Players Tryouts: Sunday, July 26 at Redstone Park . 7-10-year-olds, 9-10:30 a .m . 11-14-year-olds, 11 a .m .-12:30 p .m . You must register using Activity #201117-1 . Participants attending tryouts are not guaranteed to be placed on a team.

for our programs

Shop Day Coming

March 13-16 and May 8-11

at the Park Meadows store

Save 20% on all your sporting goods needs throughout the store.

YOUTH SPORTS

Skateboarding

SkateStart Ultimate Experience

Ages 5-12

Fee: Resident: $125 Nonresident: $144

Registration deadline: One week before the camp begins

June 4 9 a .m .-1 p .m

June 18

July 16

Umpire Training Youth Baseball & Softball

The Metro District is seeking umpires for the 2026 baseball and girls softball seasons and offers combined classroom/on-field training.

May 16 3 - 7 p .m

Redstone Park

Skyhawks/SuperTots Sports Camps

Ages 2-12

Redstone Park

Redstone Park OR May 17 9 a .m .-1 p .m

All prospective umpires must attend one of the two sessions

Please contact Beau Bressler at 720-240-5934 or bbressler@highlandsranch .org for more information .

Cheer and Dance

Pom Dance Team – Ages 5-11

Includes a performance opportunity at the Metro District’s KidFest No experience needed

Fee: Resident: $145 Nonresident: $167

Team/Uniform Fee: $85 paid directly to Dance Athletics; Registration deadline: Monday, March 23

Skyhawks provides a safe, fun, non-competitive environment to teach sports and life skills to children ages 2-14 . A variety of sports are offered throughout the summer months at different park locations in the Highlands Ranch community

For camp descriptions, activity numbers, and to register for a Skyhawks or Super Tots Sports Camp, visit highlandsranch.org/signmeup

Registration deadline: Until camp is full or seven days before the camp starts.

Practice Dates: Tuesdays, March 31-June 2 6:30-7:30 p .m . Dance Athletics, 333 Dad Clark Drive In partnership with Spirit Team – Ages 4-14

The Metro District has partnered with Dance Athletics-Denver to provide a spirit team to complement our youth flag football league Practice at the gym during the week and perform at games on Saturdays . Registration deadline: Thursday, March 12

Fee: Resident: $145 Nonresident: $167

Team/Uniform Fee: $135 paid directly to Dance Athletics; This fee includes a uniform (T-shirt, cheer skirt, briefs, poms, and hair bow), practice shirt and game day goodies/any extras

Practice Dates: Fridays, March 19-May 9 6-7 p .m Dance Athletics, 333 Dad Clark Drive

Flag Football

Fall Youth Coed Flag Football League

Kindergarten-eighth grades

Fee: Resident: $155 Nonresident: $175

Registration deadline: Tuesday, Aug. 11

There will be one practice session per week with games played on Saturdays . Practice begins the week of Aug . 24, with games starting Sept 12

*An end-of-season tournament is included for 3rd-8th grade leagues

CARA Girls Middle School Flag Football League

6th-8th grade

Fee: Resident: $140 Nonresident: $160

Registration deadline: Tuesday, Aug. 4

Practices will begin in August, with games in September and October Each team will play a minimum of six games

Preseason Fall Flag Football Camp

Ages 5-14

Fee: Resident: $40 Nonresident: $46

Registration deadline: Thursday, Aug. 20

Saturday, Aug 22 9 a .m .-noon

CARA Youth Track

Ages 5-16

CARA track is for boys and girls ages 5-16 (age as of July 18, 2026) who would like to get involved with recreational track and field The season runs from June 2-July 18 Track meets will be on Saturdays at various sites around Denver

Fee: Resident: $140 Nonresident: $161

Registration deadline: Monday, May 18

Practices at Cresthill Middle School, 9195 Cresthill Lane

Ages 5-10

Ages 11-16

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 5-6 p .m

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 6-7 p .m

YOUTH & ADULT

Horseback Riding Lessons

All lessons will be held at Stockton’s Plum Creek Stables, 7479 W Titan Road .

The registration deadline is one week prior to the class start date.

Saturday Intro to Horses

Kiddie Corral I & II

Ages 8-Adult

Ages 5-7

Beginning & Intermediate Horsemanship Ages 8-15

Visit highlandsranch.org/signmeup for full class descriptions and fees .

E-bike Lessons and Tours – New

We’ve partnered with Radventurers to offer e-bike lessons and guided tours

E-bike Lessons

Fee: $99

The registration deadline is the Monday prior to the lesson. All lessons will be held on Saturdays at Red-tail Park Beginner lessons will be held from 4-5:30 p .m . and intermediate lessons will be from 6-7:30 p .m Lessons will be offered on April 11, May 16, June 27 and July 11

YOUTH & ADULT

Nature EdVentures

The registration deadline is one week prior to the class start date.

Unless otherwise noted, all classes have the following fee:

Resident: $17 Nonresident: $20

Group rate programs (3 or more per registration): Resident: $12/person Nonresident: $14/person

ADULT SPORTS

Golf – Ages 18 & older

Golf Lessons – Get Out and Play

Classes will be held at The Links Golf Course, 5815 E . Gleneagles Village Parkway Fee: Resident: $175 Nonresident: $200

Space is limited to six per class.

Wednesdays, May 20, 27, June 3, 10 6:45-8 p .m .

Thursdays, June 25, July 2, 9, 16 7-8:15 p .m .

Wednesdays, July 22, 29, Aug . 5, 12 6:45-8 p .m .

Bocce

Ball

Programs will be held at Northridge Park, 8800 S . Broadway

Learn to Play

Registration deadline: Friday before class

Wednesday, April 1 6-7 p .m Wednesday, June 3 6-7 p .m

Wednesday Evening Leagues

Baby Animals

Snakes and Reptiles

Fishing 101

Kids Fishing Day

Cops & Bobbers

Nature Camp – Ages 7-10

All Ages/Families Saturday, April 4

All Ages/Families Wednesday, May 27

All Ages/Families Tuesday, June 2

Ages 6-14 Saturday, June 6

Ages 6-14 Saturday, June 20 and Saturday, Sept . 19

Kids will love this action-packed camp, bursting with daily nature-themed games, crafts and exciting activities Fee: Resident: $150 Nonresident: $172 July 13-17 8:15 a .m – 12:15 p .m

Pickleball

Programs will be held at Southpark Pickleball Complex, 400 W County Line Road .

Registration for summer programs (June-July) opens Wednesday, April 29, noon. Registration for spring programs is currently available.

Learn

to Play Clinics

Fee: Resident: $27 Nonresident: $32

Registration deadline: Friday before the class begins Thursday, April 2 5:30-7:30 p .m Thursday, June 4 5:30-7:30 p .m Thursday, May 7 5:30-7:30 p .m Thursday, July 9 8:30-10:30 a .m

Beginner Open Play with an Instructor – New

Fee: Resident: $27 Nonresident: $32

Registration deadline: Friday before the class begins Thursday, April 9 5:30-7:30 p .m Thursday, June 11 5:30-7:30 p .m Thursday, May 14 5:30-7:30 p .m Thursday, July 16 8:30-10:30 a .m

Pickleball Bootcamps – New

Fee: Resident: $81 Nonresident: $93

Registration deadlines: Friday before the league begins Spring league begins Wednesday, April 8 .

Summer league begins Wednesday, June 10

Adult Softball

Summer & Fall Adult Softball

Leagues are offered for both the summer and fall season Please visit quickscores.com/hrmd for detailed information about leagues or how to sign up as a free agent if you don't have a team For questions, contact Beau Bressler at 720-240-5934 or bbressler@highlandsranch .org or visit highlandsranch.org

Summer leagues start the week of May 17 . Fall leagues start the week of Aug 16

Registration deadlines: Summer: May 7 Fall: Aug. 6

Kickball

WASA Coed Adult League

Games will be played on Thursday nights beginning April 23 . The summer season begins July 16

Register for leagues at wasasports.com.

Registration deadline: One week before the bootcamp begins 55+ Intermediate Bootcamp Mondays, April 13, 20, 27 9-11 a .m Mondays, June 22, 29, July 6 8-10 a .m

Intermediate Bootcamp Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29 5:30-7:30 p .m Wednesdays, June 24, July 1, 8 5:30-7:30 p .m

Pickleball Leagues

Registration deadlines: Spring: Friday, April 3

Summer: Friday, June 5

Fee: Resident: $125 Nonresident: $145 (Fee is per team; five weeks, 10 matches, plus a tournament Individual registration is also available)

Spring league play begins the week of April 13 Summer league play begins the week of June 22

Please visit highlandsranch.org/pickleball to view all league offerings

*Interested in becoming a league substitute? Contact Coleen Wheeler at cwheeler@highlandsranch .org or 720-240-5925 .

“Ruler of the Court” Pickleball Tournament

Sign up as an individual, rotating partners each match For intermediate to advanced players only

Fee: $35

Registration deadline: Friday, April 10

Saturday, April 18 9-11 a .m and 1-3 p .m .

Registration Deadline: Friday, June 5

Thursdays, beginning June 11 5-8 p .m

Fee: Resident: $80 Nonresident: $92

Park shelter reservations

Celebrate at a Highlands Ranch park

Easily request a park shelter reservation online

Visit highlandsranch.org/reservations to submit an online request. If you need assistance, please contact our reservation coordinator at parkreservations@ highlandsranch.org or 720-240-5932.

• Check availability calendars at highlandsranch.org/reservations

• Make sure the shelter you would like to reserve will accommodate your group. An event with more than 100 requires special permitting.

• Please review park rules prior to submitting your request.

Picnic Packs

Bring a bag of fun to your party

The Metro District’s Picnic Packs are a fun and convenient addition to enhance special occasions. Daily rentals of fun-filled packages are offered. Please contact parkreservations@highlandsranch.org to review picnic pack options.

Civic Green Park fountain season

The popular water features at Civic Green Park, 9370 Ridgeline Blvd., will turn on in two phases: the overlook stream and fountain closest to the playground will turn on by mid-April and the lower interactive fountains near the pavilion will begin flowing mid-May. Learn more at highlandsranch.org/civicgreenpark

2026 fee schedule

Shelters*

Welcome to your Lebsack tennis community!

9325 Foothills Canyon Blvd . Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 720-261-3503 or 303-791-2348

psparer .tennis@gmail .com lebsacktennis.com

Lebsack Tennis Center is a public tennis facility owned by the Metro District All programs are administered by Mile High Performance Tennis .

Courts are open year-round for regular play (weather permitting)

Juniors and adult programs are staffed by RSPA-certified instructors and offered March - November, including:

• Adult USTA/CTA leagues

• USTA Junior Team Tennis

• Small group instructional classes

• Weekly adult drop-in drills

• Juniors’ high performance drills

• Private and semi-private lessons

• Adult “Top Dog” doubles leagues

• Monthly socials

For program information and registration, or to reserve a court, please visit lebsacktennis.com, or download the Playbypoint smartphone app Follow us on Instagram @lebsacktennis for information and updates

Classes, lessons, leagues and tournaments for players of all ages.

Summer season begins June 1. Registration is open. Fall season begins Aug. 17. Registration opens June 8.

Programs for players of all ages and abilities!

Registration Details

Please refer to highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter for program descriptions, schedules and fee information A Senior Center membership or day pass is required for all activities highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter 303-791-2416

Registration: highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter

Monthly newsletter

The monthly newsletter is the best way to find out what is happening at the senior center Visit highlandsranch. org/seniornewsletter to read about special events, ongoing classes, Friends activities, trips, community resources, volunteer opportunities and more .

Evening and Saturday hours begin April 4

The Senior Center recently celebrated its one-year anniversary and staff continues to grow programs and offerings for both members and nonmembers Senior Center staff, after listening to the community's interests and needs, have expanded programming hours to evenings and Saturday mornings

If you are working or have other commitments during the day, you can participate in programs during our new expanded hours:

• Tuesday and Thursday evenings until 8 p .m

• Saturday mornings from 8:30 a .m until noon Programs will include art, fitness, consumer education, wellness and special events . Check information about expanded programs at highlandsranch.org/myactivecenter.

Senior Center Memberships

The Highlands Ranch Senior Center activities are provided for individuals aged 55 and older

• Annual membership: $60/year for Highlands Ranch residents; $72/year for nonresidents

• Day passes: $2 .50 for residents; $3 for nonresidents

Memberships and day passes may be purchased at the senior center

Meet our new Health & Resource Coordinator

Corrin Godar has joined the Senior Center as our new Health & Resource Coordinator . Corrin brings extensive experience in healthy living and healthcare, with a passion for evidencebased programs and connecting people to social activities and community resources . She enjoys building relationships, sharing stories and lifelong learning Outside of work, Corrin loves hiking near Colorado’s foothills, making art, writing, gardening, trying new foods, dogsitting and spending time with her family .

Senior Center Rentals

The Highlands Ranch Senior Center offers attractive and affordable spaces for meetings and social events, including:

• Large multipurpose room: Capacity up to 240 people

• Meeting rooms: Capacities range from 25–95 people

Available on weekday evenings and weekends . Applications and guidelines are available at highlandsranch.org/senior-center-rentals

Older Adult Health and Resource Expo

The first Older Adult Health and Resource Expo of 2026 will be Thursday, April 9 from 1-4 p .m at the Highlands Ranch Senior Center, 200 E Highlands Ranch Parkway This event is open to older adults ages 55 and over and their caregivers

Connect with more than 50 community resource and ser vice professionals, including legal, financial, Medicare, moving services, hearing care and much more . The event is free, and no registration is required . Invite a friend or loved one to come as well . All are welcome!

Law Day – Friday, May 1

Spend the day learning about scams, legal paperwork and how the 23rd Judicial District Attorney’s Office is improving financial and physical safety . Free 20-minute one-on-one appointments with an attorney will be available .

Spring Craft Fair

Saturday, May 16, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Browse 60 vendors offering handmade crafts and unique gifts for your home . All ages welcome; free admission and ample parking

Sponsored by the Friends of the Highlands Ranch Senior Center . Visit friendsofhrsc.org for details .

Do What You Love to End ALZ Walk

Wear purple and join us for a walk to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's research . The Senior Center's Do What You Love to End ALZ Walk will be Friday, June 19 from 9-11 a .m . at Redstone Park, 3280 Redstone Park Circle Friends and family are welcome to attend, and donations are appreciated

More than 40 people participated in the center's first walk in 2025 and raised $2,490 for Alzheimer's research and local community services . Help us reach our 2026 goal of $4,000 to help those in need

Social Events

Our social events are a great way to connect, laugh and enjoy time together . Don’t miss these upcoming events:

• Disco Fever Senior Ball – Thursday, March 19, 5–8 p .m .

• Mint Juleps & Magnolias: A Kentucky Oaks Garden Party – Friday, May 1, 5–8 p .m

• Mother’s & Father’s Day Brunch – Thursday, May 28, 10:30 a .m .–12:30 p .m

• Wild West Swing – Thursday, June 25, 5–8 p .m .

• Friends of the HRSC Monthly Luncheons – Second Wednesday of each month, 11:15 a .m .–2 p .m

What piques your interest?

Fitness Classes

The Senior Center offers hundreds of fitness classes each month focused on improving balance, strength, aerobic capacity and overall health, including:

• Ageless Grace

• Cardio Circuit

• Core Conditioning

• EnhanceFitness

• Mat Pilates

• Strength & Balance (Beginner and Advanced)

• Tai Chi (Beginner and Intermediate)

• Yoga (Gentle and Chair)

• Zumba

Medicare Discounts: Members with Renew Active (One Pass), SilverSneakers, Silver & Fit, or Active & Fit may be eligible for discounts on fitness classes up to the maximum monthly amount set by their insurance plan . Please contact staff for details . Participants must attend class for the senior center to receive reimbursement .

Enrichment Programs

Our enrichment classes are the perfect way to explore your creativity in 2026 . Choose from a wide variety of offerings including drawing and painting, art history, cardmaking, gardening and technology classes

Education & Community Resources

We enjoy connecting you with trusted local service professionals and community partners . Educational presentations cover topics such as becoming a safer driver, funeral and cremation planning, downsizing or selling your home, legal and financial decision-making and senior safety We also offer a variety of support groups for caregivers, those experiencing grief or loss and veterans seeking connection and support .

Health & Wellness

Prevention is key to living and aging well . We host informative presentations on:

• Brain Health

• Hearing and Eye Care

• Joint and Hip Health

• Understanding Dementia

• Fall Prevention

• Nutrition

• Medicare

• Mental Health First Aid

Games & Clubs

Whether you enjoy friendly competition or social connection, we offer a wide range of games and clubs, including bridge, bunco, euchre, poker, Mahjongg, Mexican Train dominoes, rummikub, triple play canasta, dance, music, hiking, biking and book clubs

Trips

Traveling with the senior center is a safe and easy way to explore exciting destinations . Options range from local day trips and theatre outings to extended domestic and international adventures

Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Become a senior center volunteer Register at highlandsranch.org/ seniorcenter .

Changing water use one customer at a time

Highlands Ranch Water has always strived to achieve long-term resilient water supplies. Over the past 30 years, the district has met community water demand with an average of 85% surface water and 15% groundwater. By 2030 we expect to meet demand entirely with renewable surface water during normal and wet years thanks to capacity upgrades at our surface water treatment plant. At that point, we will only need to use groundwater during times of prolonged drought or when our surface water plant is offline for maintenance. But what about dry years? Conservation will close that gap.

Conservation is key to long term planning

In 2002, Colorado endured one of the worst droughts in state history, leading Highlands Ranch Water to implement a water budget-based billing system to encourage wise water use. Community demand dropped 20% after implementation, and even as the population continued to climb, water use remained on a downward trend, eventually plateauing in the 2010s.

In addition to water budgets, the district now has a robust conservation program with numerous rebates available for residential and commercial customers. A turf replacement rebate has been available since 2018, and a new rebate was introduced this year for customers who replace their toilets with high efficiency models.

Last year we created new low-water garden design templates, developed a plant database, and provided a list of local landscape companies for our customers utilizing the turf replacement program. The Highlands Ranch Water team is also converting irrigated landscapes at our office building and well sites to low water demonstration landscapes.

Our sister government, the Highlands Ranch Metro District, began their Parkway Landscape Conversion Program in 2020, setting an example for our community and supporting our message as they annually convert acres of non-functional high-water use turf grass to low-water landscapes. We’ve got our work cut out for us, but in a community where Kentucky bluegrass was once king, people are curious and things are starting to change.

As we look to 2026 and a dry season ahead, conservation matters more than ever, and its success depends on you. Small steps, from ColoradoScape yards to efficient irrigation, make a real difference. Pick your path and partner with us to conserve water today and protect our water supply for the future.

What’s in a name?

Last year wasn’t the only time Highlands Ranch Water changed our name. Early in our history we were Mission Viejo Water and Sanitation District – aptly named after the developer of H ighlands Ranch – Mission Viejo Company. It only took a few years after the district was formed for the leadership at the time to acknowledge the confusion of having two names so similar.

“We wanted to draw some distinction between the t wo to let people know that there were different services from different organizations,” said Jeff Case, retired Engineering and Public Works Director for the district.

Do more this May, by doing less

Highlands Ranch Water is asking residents to get a jump start on their summer conservation actions by participating in No Mow May. The concept is simple: do not mow or reduce the frequency you traditionally mow your lawn during the month of May.

Reducing mowing frequency can significantly lower your lawn’s water demand. Taller grass encourages deeper root growth, improving drought resilience during the heat of summer. You can still maintain a beautiful landscape, with less frequent mowing during No Mow May.

A limited number of No Mow May yard signs are available for customers to share their participation in the program. Email contactus@hrwater.org to request a sign.

Low-water gardening made easy

In a semi-arid state like Colorado, it’s important for each of us to play our part in conserving such an important resource as water . Highlands Ranch Water partners with Resource Central to offer two incentive programs to help customers conserve water in their landscape – Garden In A Box and Slow The Flow Garden In A Box: Lowwater garden kits to help you cut back on water use

Receive a discount on a professionally designed plant by number garden kit tailored for Colorado yards .

Slow the Flow: Get the most out of your sprinkler system with a free sprinkler evaluation and learn how you can use your outdoor water wisely

Learn more about both programs at hrwater.org/slowthe -flow-garden-in-a-box

So where did the name Centennial come from?

A manhole in front of the district office building bore the original MVWSD (Mission Viejo Water and Sanitation District) markings. Upon discovery last month, it has been replaced, and the original hardware was preserved for historical purposes.

It was 1984 when Highlands Ranch was still in its infanc y but growing fast and the water district needed its own identity. An article published in the Douglas County News-Press on Aug. 16, 1984, reports the water district sought the name change to avoid confusion. Later that fall the change was official and Mission Viejo Water and Sanitation District became Centennial Water and Sanitation District for the next 40 years.

Discussions began to select a new name. The filming of the NBC miniseries Centennial had recently taken place at the Highlands Ranch Mansion in 1978. The popular miniseries was based on the novel Centennial written by James Michener. The novel was about the fictional history of Centennial, Colorado. The name Centennial also had factual ties to the state – Colorado became the Centennial state in 1876 on the 100th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. According to the 1984 Douglas County News-Press article, there were numerous streets, buildings and districts in Colorado at the time that referenced Centennial. And thus, a new name was chosen.

Centennial Water and Sanitation District proudly car ried the Centennial name for 17 years before the City of Centennial was incorporated in neighboring Arapahoe County. While the shared name sometimes led to understandable confusion, it also reflects a common Colorado heritage rooted in history and location.

SPRING 2026

An impressive turnout on Jan . 31 helped the Metro District and South Suburban Parks and Recreation celebrate the grand opening of the co-owned Southpark Pickleball Complex The 19-court facility at 400 W County Line Road is the result of an innovative partnership between the two districts . Learn more at highlandsranch. org/pickleball

Highlands Ranch Metro District 62 Plaza Drive

Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

Engage with your elected officials

Would you like to provide feedback or suggestions to the elected officials charged with your local government? It is as easy as attending a board meeting or sending an email to metroboard@highlandsranch .org .

The board meets twice monthly with two oppor tunities at each meeting for public comment on any topic . You can attend in person or via Zoom . Other than exceptions for holidays, board meetings are held the last Tuesday of the month, and study sessions are held Wednesday the week prior to board meetings . All meetings start at 6 p .m Most meetings are held at the John D . Hendrick Office Building, 62 Plaza Drive . If attending in person, please check the agenda on our website to verify the location

The meeting schedule and agendas, including a zoom link, can be found at highlandsranch.org/agendas Board members look forward to hearing from you

We'd like to hear from

Douglas County now offers all residents DougCoAlert, replacing the previous CodeRed emergency notification system DougCoAlert is a free service that allows individuals to receive notifications sent from state and local authorities to stay informed on potentially hazardous situations involving natural disasters, evacuations and shelter-in-place orders, law enforcement activities and public safety emergencies

People previously signed up for CodeRed will not be automatically enrolled in DougCoAlert and are encouraged to sign up at DougCoAlert.com

The Metro District is gearing up for the 2026 spring and summer hiring season! Visit our career page at highlandsranch.org/apply to apply for seasonal opportunities We’re looking for a number of seasonal staff to work in sports and recreation programs, mowing and plant turf care, field preparation and park services, playground and fence maintenance, and open space and forestry preservation Also, check our website at highlandsranch.org/apply for summer internships

The Metro District and Highlands Ranch Water are both working to improve how we share important information with the community. Please take a few minutes to complete a short survey to help our organizations understand how you currently receive information and what works best for you to stay updated on local news and updates. Visit highlandsranch.org to complete the survey or scan the QR code.