Last Friday we did what many organizations do each year—reflected on our challenges and progress over the past year at our Annual Meeting. We had great news to share, and we only have all that good news because of you—our members. In case you missed it, our annual report is easier to “read” than ever:
And, while it’s fun to focus on accomplishments, we spent more time talking about the work ahead—and, there’s plenty of it starting with the ballot in November. We’re focused on five questions that voters will be asked to weigh in on. Here’s where we stand:
Investing in the future of our region: Referred Question 2C asks voters to extend the lodgers’ tax, which benefits the National Western Stock Show and the Colorado Convention Center—two major draws to our region. This measure has the potential to transform National Western Stock Show into an economic center for agriculture and animal science. We’re supporting 2C.
Supporting regional collaboration: Referred Question 1A asks Adams and Denver County voters to approve an agreement among the cities and counties around Denver International Airport. This will encourage business and development around DIA, one of our greatest economic drivers, and we think it’s a great example of collaboration in action. We’re supporting 1A.
Building tomorrow’s workforce: Referred Question 2A asks voters whether to increase the sales tax by 8 cents on every $100 to create a College Affordability Fund, which would make funding available to qualifying students in need of financial aid. The reality is that in just five years 74 percent of our jobs will require some kind of education after high school—and we’re going not going to be able to meet that demand unless we start educating more of our kids. We’re supporting 2A.
Keeping our promises to voters: Voters approved recreational marijuana and the taxing of it too to cover costs for regulation, public safety and to fund schools. However, under our Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (a constitutional provision), the state can’t keep the funds collected. Proposition BB asks voters to allow Colorado to keep those funds to direct them where they were promised to go—to regulation, public safety and schools. We’re supporting Proposition BB.
Maintaining tools for local economic development: Tax increment financing (TIF) is a vital tool to help revitalize blighted areas that need investment. A ballot question in Wheat Ridge will ask voters whether to add an amendment to TIF law that would require city council approval of TIF projects under $2.5 million or approval by voters for projects of more than $2.5 million. We support the use of TIF and believe this proposal could result in less investment in Wheat Ridge, so we’re opposing Ballot Question #300.
Keep helping us drive Colorado forward by sharing our position on these issues. This is just the start to the proactive agenda you can expect from the business community this next year.
Kelly Brough is president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.