Energy industry outlook improving

Kelly Sloan,  The Business Times Representatives from two energy companies operating in Western Colorado offer a more upbeat outlook for industry activity in the region. Even as WPX expands production in the Piceance Basin to take an advantage of an uptick in natural gas prices, Shell Oil continues its research into developing what’s potentially an […]

Consumer Confidence Index climbs to five-year high

A monthly measure of consumer confidence has climbed for a third straight month to reach its highest point in more than five years. The Conference Board reported that its Consumer Confidence Index jumped more than seven points in June to 81.4. The index has risen to its highest level since standing at 87.3 in January […]

Mesa County jobless rate retreats to lowest level since 2009

Phil Castle, The Business Times The monthly unemployment rate in Mesa County has slipped below 8 percent for the first time in more than four years as a number of indicators reflect a slowly improving labor market. The size of the workforce has yet to rebound, however, and finding full-time work remains a challenge for […]

Leading index forecasts improving U.S. outlook

A monthly index forecasting economic performance in the United States continues to edge up even as the potential increases for stronger growth in the second half of the year. The Conference Board reported that its Leading Economic Index (LEI) rose a tenth of a percent to 95.2 in May. The index has increased 1.9 percent […]

Worksite wellness promoted for the health of it

Phil Castle, The Business Times While worksite wellness programs promote healthier employees, the benefits extend beyond that immediate goal. “This isn’t just a feel-good thing,” said Heidi Hoffman, health promotion specialist with the Mesa County Health Department. In fact, the direct cost of lower health insurance premiums constitutes just the tip of an iceberg of […]

Mesa County foreclosure rate remains high despite fall in activity

While property foreclosure activity has fallen over the past year, Mesa County continues to experience the highest foreclosure rate among 12 metropolitan counties in Colorado. According to the latest statistics compiled by the Colorado Division of Housing, Mesa County reported a foreclosure rate of one completed foreclosure per 940 households in May. Pueblo County experienced […]

Sales tax collections continue to decline

Phil Castle, The Business Times Sales tax collections continue to decline in the Grand Valley, a lengthening trend attributed in part to a decrease in regional energy exploration and production. According to the May report from the City of Grand Junction, sales and use tax collections totalled $3.7 million, a decrease of 5.1 percent compared […]