Consumer confidence slips on less upbeat expectations

A monthly measure of consumer confidence has edged down on less upbeat expectations for labor and financial conditions. “While the economy hasn’t shown signs of further weakening, there is little to suggest growth and in particular consumer spending will gain momentum in early 2020,” said Lynn Franco, director of economic indicators with the Conference Board. […]

Mesa County jobless rate edges upward

Phil Castle, The Business Times The monthly unemployment rate in Mesa County has edged up as colder weather slows activity in some industry sectors. But 2019 will end as one of the best years on record for the local labor market, said Curtis Englehart, director of the Mesa County Workforce Center in Grand Junction. “2019 […]

Index forecasts 2 percent U.S growth in 2020

A monthly index forecasting economic conditions remains unchanged, signaling continued growth in 2020. The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Indicator (LEI) held steady at 111.6 in November after three straight months of declines. The index has slipped two-tenths of a percent over the past six months. Separate measures of current and past conditions both […]

Pet industry brokerage moves into downtown property

A Grand Junction-based business brokerage focused on the pet care industry has moved into new offices to accommodate its growing operation. National Kennel Sales & Appraisals bought the historic house at 951 Main St. The company will share the space with Wag Resort, which operates two dog boarding, grooming and training facilities in Grand Junction. […]

Business groups call on governor to protect Labor Peact Act

Representatives from 15 business groups have sent a letter to Colorado Gov. Jared Polis asking for his help in maintaining a 76-year-old compromise between labor and management. Tony Gagliardi, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business in Colorado and one of the signers of the letter, said there are concerns there could be […]

Monument entrance fees increasing in 2020

The Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction will increase entrance fees $5 starting Jan. 1. Entrance fees will increase to $15 for individuals, $20 for motorcycles and $25 for private vehicles. The annual pass will increase to $45, although an annual pass purchased prior to Dec. 31 will cost $40 and remain valid through 2020. […]

Mesa County budget prioritizes core services

An increased Mesa County budget for 2020 will prioritize core government services, officials say. “The 2020 adopted budget is a reflection of the priorities we have heard from our community and our staff, which also aligns with Mesa County’s strategic plan and our board’s priorities,” said Mesa County Commissioner Rose Pugliese. The commissioners approved a […]

City of Grand Junction to increase spending on wages, public safety

An increased budget for the City of Grand Junction will accommodate higher wages, infrastructure projects and new fire and police department positions and facilities. The Grand Junction City Council adopted a 2020 budget that’s $5.4 million — or 3.5 percent — higher than the 2019 adopted budget. The approval culminates a lengthy process involving the […]

Health information organizations expand data exchange

Health information organizations based in Grand Junction and Denver have expanded their exchange of patient records to better coordinate care across Colorado. Quality Health Network in Grand Junction and the Colorado Regional Health Information Organization in Denver announced the effort. “Securely sharing health data across systems and regions is an important step in providing high-quality, […]