Denver City Council has postponed a three-day leadership retreat that was to begin 27 Aug. at the Lone Rock venue in Park County, citing the need to focus on supporting 171 municipal employees who were laid off earlier this week amid budget pressures. The event, budgeted at about $26,000, included $16,500 for lodging and meals, $2,600 for accessible transportation and $7,600 for a facilitator and assessment tools, all drawn from the council’s central office budget. Contracts were signed in May, before Mayor Mike Johnston disclosed a growing shortfall in the city’s general fund later that month. Council President Amanda P. Sandoval said postponing the gathering was “the right thing to do” in light of the job cuts, while Councilman Chris Hinds added that the decision aligns the body with city staff affected by the reductions. City officials are attempting to negotiate with the venue for a refund or date change, but have not secured reimbursement for the facility or transport costs.