City sales tax collections jump

Sales tax collections, a key measure of retail activity, continue to increase in Grand Junction. The City of Grand Junction reported collecting nearly $5.5 million in sales taxes in April. That’s an increase of more than $1.7 million and 47.2 percent over the same month last year, although collections a year ago were affected by […]

Businesses invited to pitch for funding

Applications will be accepted until June 18 for more than $1.3 million in funding made available through the Greater Colorado Pitch Series. The winners will be announced during West Slope Startup Week, set for July 12 to 16 with virtual sessions as well as in-person events in Grand Junction. The free event will showcase rural […]

Pandemic presents challenges and opportunities for food and ag businesses

Phil Castle, The Business Times Even as COVID-19 posed challenges for food and agricultural businesses in Colorado, the pandemic brought opportunities for businesses willing to adapt and even improve operations. “It taught me how to run a better business,” said Jason Morse, an executive chef who operates 5280 Culinary, a food manufacturing and consulting business […]

State of the valley: Government officials talk issues

Phil Castle, The Business Times Grand Valley governments avoided an expected downturn in sales tax revenues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions. Governments and residents alike found ways to support businesses. Collaborative and flexible efforts helped address issues as well. Even as the effects of the pandemic ease, other challenges remain. […]

Mesa County jobless rate retreats

Phil Castle, The Business Times The unemployment rate continues to retreat in Mesa County, but would move even lower if businesses weren’t struggling to fill job openings “There are a ton of job opportunities out there, but they’re having a difficult time filling them,” said Curtis Englehart, director of the Mesa County Workforce Center in […]

New Colorado loan fund to provide up to $250 million to small businesses

A new loan fund will provide up to $250 million in working capital through 2023 to small businesses in Colorado. The Colorado Department of the Treasury, Colorado Housing and Finance Authority and Office of Economic Development and International Trade launched the Colorado Loans for Increasing Mainstreet Business and Economic Recovery (CLIMBER) fund. “At this critical […]

Outdoor fest to return to Palisade on May 15

An event planned for Palisade will show children and their families some of the activities they can enjoy outside. The Outdoor Heritage Day Festival is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 15 at Riverbend Park. “We’re excited to be back at Riverbend Park after having to cancel last year’s festivities due to the […]

New airline begins service to Southern California

A new airline has launched service between Grand Junction and Southern California. Avelo Airlines conducted the inaugural flight on May 9 of a route scheduled to offer four flights a week between Grand Junction Regional Airport and Hollywood Burbank Airport. “We are elated to welcome Avelo to Grand Junction Regional Airport,”said Angela Padalecki, director of […]

Mesa County sales tax collections jump

Sales tax collections, a measure of retail activity, continue to increase in Mesa County. Sales tax collections for April jumped 42.2 percent over the same month last year. Collections through the first four months of 2020 were up 17.2 percent. April collections reflect March sales. The county reported collecting a total of nearly $4.3 million […]