Dennis Gallagher, longtime, stalwart political figure in Denver and Colorado, dies at 82.

ByAlyssa R. Elliott

Apr 29, 2022 , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dennis Gallagher, a longtime Democratic political figure from northwest Denver who authored the Gallagher Amendment and who was a happy champion of his Irish heritage, died Friday night time at his dwelling. Gallagher was 82.

A Denver indigenous, Gallagher was recognised as a kind-hearted and persuasive man whose longtime involvement in politics, his area group, Colorado’s Irish neighborhood and the Catholic Church established an amazing legacy.

“Dennis was a massive presence in Denver. For many years, his general public provider was reflected each day — not just for his beloved north side — but for the reward of our entire metropolis,” explained Mayor Michael Hancock, in a statement. “He possessed a sharp wit that was quick with an Irish phrase in any condition. Even though we may possibly have disagreed on a lot of difficulties, I under no circumstances doubted that he beloved our city. We’ve shed a storied Denver general public servant. Relaxation in peace, my pal.”

Gallagher earned a bachelor’s degree from Regis University in 1961, and a master’s degree from The Catholic College of The us in 1967. An orator, he taught speech, persuasion and media for more than 4 a long time.

Damian Strohmeyer, The Denver Write-up

Democratic Sen. Dennis Gallagher addresses the Democratic caucus soon after his appointment as Senate Minority Occasion whip in November 1984.

Elected to the point out Home of Representatives in 1970, he served two terms and moved to the point out Senate, exactly where he served for 20 decades. In 1982 he sponsored the “Gallagher Amendment” to the condition structure. The modification, which set guidelines and limits on assets taxes, was repealed by voters in 2020.

“There they go again. Corporate special interests are seeking to fund an more tax split on the backs of owners and renters,” Gallagher, who was recognized for talking his brain, wrote in a Denver Put up commentary just before the repeal. “Their most up-to-date ploy is the repeal of the Gallagher Amendment.”

Gallagher was elected to the City Council in 1995, representing District 1 in northwest Denver and serving two terms. He was elected Denver auditor in 2003. He served as auditor until 2014.

Amanda Sandoval, the recent councilwoman for the district, described Gallagher as a “true legend” who will be “greatly skipped.”

“The passing of Dennis Gallagher is these sad information for our neighborhood,” Sandoval explained. “He was a good friend, a mentor, and was so experienced. He will be tremendously missed in Northwest Denver. Relaxation In Peace, Dennis.”