University of Denver Housing Panel Unexpectedly Criticized

Specifically, one protester, former contractor and current minister King Harris, was upset that black developer Jacqueline Peterson wasn't on the panel that included the architect she hired for one of her projects at Stapleton. Real estate consultant David Zucker, who helped choose the panel members, says that architect Arlo Braun was chosen because he could speak on regional developments, and that this forum was not specific to any one project. But Zucker says that no slight was intended. And Braun did speak about Peterson's development at Stapleton, as well as developments along the southeast corridor and in northern Colorado.

Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, who arrived as the final speaker (after the protesters had left the meeting), says that it is unfortunate that the group felt excluded. "I'm sure it was an honest mistake," he says.

Indeed, Howard Noble, a land developer who chaired the event, emphasized that no slight was intended. "In a positive way, the issues raised by Rev. Harris increases awareness to be more inclusive," Noble tells GlobeSt.com. "We hope the individual who he believes was not asked to participate will become actively involved in the future. No one has a monopoly on good ideas."

One of the ironies of the protest was that the black leaders and the panelists were all on the same page as far as housing goals. Tony Hernandez, director of the Fannie Mae Colorado State Partnership, was the first speaker and allowed Harris to give an unannounced talk, even though he wasn't scheduled to speak. During his talk, Hernandez pointed out that the most potential for housing growth will occur in the African-American and Hispanic communities, not in the Anglo community.

Harris, who initially said he was appalled when he took the microphone from Hernandez, seemed a bit less strident when he spoke after Hernandez was done speaking. After the meeting, Harris told reporters that it was fortunate for the group, and unfortunate for him, that Hernandez was the first speaker. "I have nothing but respect for Tony Hernandez, and it wouldn't be right for me to say anything disrespectful about him," Harris said.