Colorado to lose demographic dividend, says state demographer

When it comes to a strong business climate, communities envy the 35-65 year age group as those communities seek to increase output of goods and services. Colorado has an advantage over many states in that it’s attracted young people in the 20-40 year old range over the past few decades, feeding into the group that […]

Grand Junction Manager reports increased sales tax revenues for first quarter of year; sees leaner times over the next 18 months

In the midst of local indicators that the economy is rebounding from the depths of the Great Recession, the city manager for Grand Junction cautions that recent increases in sales tax collections will not be the norm over the next 18 months. In fact, manager Laurie Kadrich reminds local people that the city’s forecast remains […]

School District 51 considers TABOR waiver for November ballot

As Mesa County School District 51 mulls over a budget proposal that calls for cutting more than 180 full-time equivalent jobs by August, the district is also weighing the pros and cons of asking county voters to allow the district to retain revenues above the limits set by the state’s Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights—or TABOR—law. […]

Upcoming conference to connect Coloradans with government leaders

Lisa Mullen is looking forward to attending an upcoming conference that will connect Coloradans with federal government leaders. “This is a great opportunity for me,” said Mullen, the owner of Rocky Mountain Sanitation in Grand Junction. “As a business owner, I feel this is an important step to providing good business practices and procedures.” Mullen […]

Uncivil workplace costly problem

An increasingly uncivil workplace costs businesses not only talented employees, but also paying customers. It’s up to owners and managers to address behavior that creates a “toxic environment,” said Evan Abbott, director of organizational development and learning for the Mountain States Employers Council (MSEC). “They set the tone. They create the norm of what’s accepted.” […]

Right code for marketing? Develop strategy first

Businesses enjoy more ways nearly every day to promote their products and services and connect with customers. But it’s important to put marketing strategies in place before using emerging techniques, not after the fact. The increasing popularity of quick response codes offers a good example, said Valerie Stow, an internet marketing specialist with RSW Partners […]

Nutritional supplement business flexes its muscles

Mary Leeds and Donnie Tanner consider themselves a fairly good representation of the demographic they expect their new Grand Junction business to serve. Leeds competes in fitness events, while Tanner maintains a hectic schedule as a crop duster, farmer and volunteer fireman. That’s not to mention their responsibilities as parents. The two say the nutritional […]

Lawmaker decries failed effort to alter energy board

Although the energy industry ranks among the leading economic drivers in Colorado, the state drives that industry away with undue regulations, according to a Grand Valley legislator. Speaking at a legislative wrapup breakfast sponsored by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, State Rep. Ray Scott decried failed efforts to help remedy that situation by […]

Reduced schedule and pay part of School District 51 budget cuts

Mesa County School District 51 teachers and administrators face pay cuts as part of budget cuts proposed by Superintendent Steve Schultz. The plan also calls for the equivalent of 186 fewer full-time positions in the district. The school board is scheduled to approve a final budget in late June. The plan calls for three fewer […]