Grand Valley tax reports reflect gains and pains

Phil Castle, The Business Times Sales and use tax collections have increased in Mesa County for the first time in four months on more purchases of automobiles and home improvement supplies. While the gain is encouraging, one month doesn’t constitute a trend, said Eleanor Thomas, county budget manager. “I think we need to wait and […]

Index slips, but small business optimism remains high

An index tracking optimism among small business owners has slipped, but remains at an historically high level. The National Federation of Independent Business reported that its Small Business Optimism Index declined six-tenths of a point in March. But at 104.7, the index remains near its highest level in more than a decade. “By historical standards, […]

Registration under way for Western Colorado economic summit

Registration is under way for an economic summit in Western Colorado that will address a range of issues and also offer participants a chance to set for goals for economic development. The Grand Junction Economic Partnership has scheduled  the summit for June 6 at Colorado Mesa University. The day-long event will include breakfast and luncheon […]

CMU survey results reflect regional differences of opinion

Coloradans’ views on the economy, energy development and other subjects depends in part on where they live, according to the results of a statewide survey conducted at Colorado Mesa University. People from the Denver metropolitan region were more upbeat than those on the Western Slope in their assessments of economic, labor and business conditions. West […]

2017 off to fast start for Mesa County real estate market

Phil Castle, The Business Times Increasing real estate activity during the first quarter constitutes a fast start for what could end as the best year for the Mesa County market in nearly a decade. “This is going to be a banner year,” said Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray Real Estate in Grand Junction. Annette […]

Conference to offer employment law update

An upcoming conference in Grand Junction will offer an update on employment law, including issues related to disabilities, immigration and wages. The Western Colorado Human Resource Association has scheduled its spring legislative and case law conference for 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 19 at Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St. Admission to the […]

Club 20 speakers to address a variety of issues

State and federal officials are expected to address a variety of issues during presentations planned for the Club 20 Spring Conference in Grand Junction. The day long conference is set for April 8 at Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St. An awards and recognition banquet also is planned for April 7 at the center. […]

HR leader to oversee apprenticeship initiative

A human resources professional with more than 30 years of experience has been hired as the first manager of a new program promoting youth apprenticeships in Mesa County. Linda Spencer takes on a range of responsibilities in her new role with CareerWise Colorado. Spencer will  coordinate efforts to offer apprenticeships as well as recruit and […]