DENVER — Mayor Michael Hancock revealed his 2017 proposed budget Monday. It addresses many of the needs highlighted by the FOX31 Problem Solvers over the course of the past year.

In regards to the violence on the 16th Mall, Hancock announced the hiring of 16 dedicated officers to patrol the area around the mall. A total of 48 officers will be added to the force, costing around $16 million.

“We are making a concerted effort to protect our central corridor,” Hancock said.

“When I got the budget this time I had to read it four or five times to make sure I was seeing what I was seeing — so I can’t tell you how elated I am,” Denver police Chief Robert White said.

In addition to adding more officers, the city will be dedicating resources to equip off duty police officers with body cams.

Affordable housing

In regards to affordable housing, the mayor proposes adding $5 million into the Affordable Housing Fund. That number is separate from a city council proposal that would increase the fund by raising taxes.

“Residents have been very clear to us that they feel priced out of the market in Denver,” Hancock said.

Homeless

In regards to homeless outreach, the mayor wants to create a new Office of Hope (Housing and Opportunities for People Everywhere) with dedicated staff to help get people off the streets.

Disabled parking

Recently, the Problem Solvers highlighted the problems the city is having with enforcing disabled parking spots.

The mayor’s budget includes $289,000 to hire three full-time employees to better enforce ordinances.

Transportation

The budget also includes a 25 percent increase in transportation funding to help maintain main roads like Broadway and Colfax Avenue.

More

Additionally, five outdoor pools will remain open next year through Labor Day — including Barnum, Berkley, Congress, Eisenhower and Congress.

Hearings to discuss the mayor’s budget will start taking place next week. A final vote is expected sometime in November.