Thank you for your interest in the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce.
Statistics report that chamber members have the highest rated customer service in the industry. Membership is a great investment in the future of Castle Rock, Douglas County and your business. See how you can get connected to our business community, Join Today!
Members, share your good news! Add your own press release.
TCHD Back to Business Webinar every Friday at 9:30 a.m.
Join the TCHD Back to Business Webinar every Friday at 9:30 a.m. Join the Business Re-Opening Task Force for a weekly update and a question and answer segment.Register Today. Spanish translation is available.Zoom Registration: Back to Business Friday at 9:30 a.m.https://www.tchd.org/836/Safer-at-Home-Guidance-for-Businesses
November 2020 Ballot Initiatives Update
Monday Deadline for Signature Gathering for 2020 Ballot Measures Coloradans will consider as many as 11 initiatives on the November 2020 ballot—1 referendum petition, 3 measures referred by the state legislature, and up to 7 citizen led initiatives. Over 300 citizen led ballot measures were introduced for the 2020 ballot, but so far only 3 citizen led measures have been approved and 4 are awaiting signature verification by the Secretary of State. Today at 3:00pm was the deadline for submitting
COVID Encouraging Work From Home Policies Update
Below are notes from a webinar hosted by the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Office of Economic Development and International Trade re: work from home policies on Friday. The meeting was led by Betsy Markey, Executive Director, OEDIT; Jill Ryan, Executive Director, CDPHE; and Kacey Wulff, Governor’s Advisor on COVID-19. The presenters in the meeting asked Colorado’s businesses to maximize teleworking and remote work as well as to assist in enforcing the statewide mask order. They
Governor Polis signs three executive orders for COVID-19 extensions
The Governor signed an Executive Order directing the Colorado Department of Human Services to access federal funds for child care services.The Governor also signed Executive Order D 2020 146, extending the ability for Coloradans to continue getting marriage licenses while clerk and recorder offices are closed.He also extended orders suspending certain regulatory statutes due to COVID-19, and concerning petition collection for unaffiliated and independent candidates.
Nonmedical disposable masks available at Town Hall for Town businesses, residents
The current Statewide mask order means masks are a must within indoor public spaces and when using public transportation services for those ages 11 and up. To help ensure masks are available for those who need them, the Town is making nonmedical disposable masks available free of charge at Town Hall for Town businesses and residents to pick up. The process is simple: Come to Town Hall, 100 N. Wilcox St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Be sure to wear a mask and to practice social
Rural and Agricultural Funding Opportunities for Small businesses
Please join us on Friday, 07/31/2020 (10:00 AM to 11:00 AM CDT) at our live event to learn about Rural and Agricultural Funding Opportunities for Small businesses. We have attached the Flyer for your review. It is in our best interest to partner with you to bring this valuable event information to your Small & Minority Business Enterprise network. Likewise, this is an opportunity to share exciting news and events led by your organizations. There are many opportunities to collaborate using our virtual
County partners with Tri-County Health Dept. and STRIDE Community Health Center in multi-million dollar initiatives
Commissioners approve more than $3 million in CARES Act funds to reduce local spread of COVID-19County partners with Tri-County Health Dept. and STRIDE Community Health Center in multi-million dollar initiatives. Published on July 28, 2020 in 2020 & Breaking News The Board of Douglas County Commissioners today unanimously approved up to $3,037,696 in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding for community testing and case investigation/contact tracing to assist in the
Governor Polis Final Action on Bills from the 2020 Session and New Mask Order
COVID-19 Questions & answers about the statewide mandatory mask order flyer STATEWIDE MASK ORDER one pagerDemocrat/Republican split in House of Representatives: 41/24Democrat/Republican split in the Senate: 19/16Number of days met: 84Number of days left under 120 limit: 36Number of days in recess: 72 daysNumber of bills, resolutions, and memorials introduced during the 2020 Legislative Session: 710Number of bills signed by the Governor: 326Number of bills vetoed as of June 16, 2020: 3Last day for the
Release of the draft health guidance for reopening schools
Today, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Colorado Department of Education, and Governor's Office released the draft health guidance for keeping our kids safe as schools reopen this fall. The guidance is organized by COVID-19 incidence levels and provides specific recommendations on the levels; Stay at Home, Safer at Home, and Protect our Neighbors. This guidance will help local public health agencies and school districts ensure the safest learning environment possible during the
KICKSTART YOUR CAREER VIRTUAL EVENT
KICKSTART YOUR CAREER VIRTUAL EVENT TUESDAY, JULY 28 | 6:30-7:30 PM VIA ZOOM The world has changed – Your dreams haven’t. Don’t let a tough economy put your future on hold. Skill up. Re-train. Or change your career altogether. Now is the time to set yourself apart. ACC can help you: • Explore new careers • Enroll in courses that fit your schedule • Obtain job-ready skills through certificates and apprenticeship opportunities • Renovate your resume ACC advisors will be available to answer your
Colorado's last call for alcohol moved to 10 p.m. to prevent social gatherings
Governor Polis discussed the concerning trends of new cases. New daily cases have doubled in recent days. The rate of new cases is increasing. He announced that statewide the last call for alcohol at restaurants will be 10pm for the next 30 days. 15 Counties have seen cases rise and are at risk of losing their variances. To keep their variances, they have to submit a mitigation plan and cases will need to decrease. 8 of the counties decided not to submit a mitigation plan and to go back to
Colorado Economy Continues Recovery in June
The Colorado economy took another step in the recovery from the COVID-19 lockdown with the addition of 55,000 jobs in June. That is impressive growth, although the number was smaller than expected given the strength of U.S. job growth earlier in the month. The data indicates a majority of the state’s reopening came in May. Over 90% of the employment gains were in retail and leisure and hospitality. This bodes well for the whole state because tourism and retail are an important part of the economy. In
Governor Polis Announces Statewide Mask Order
DENVER - Governor Jared Polis today announced a Statewide mask order, directing Coloradans to wear a face covering while indoors. This Executive Order goes into effect at midnight tonight. The Governor also provided an update on the State’s response to COVID-19. “Wearing a mask is an easy and highly effective way to significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19. The more we wear masks, the safer we will be and the stronger our economy will grow,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Unfortunately, this pandemic
Board of Douglas County Commissioners statement on Statewide Mask Mandate
A statement from the Board of Douglas County Commissioners regarding the statewide mask mandate:"While consultation with local governments would have been preferred, now that we've heard from our state's top elected official ordering a statewide mask mandate, we urge our citizens and business communities to comply with the public safety Executive Order. We will continue to encourage personal responsibility as we monitor Douglas County's data over the next 30 days for a reduction in the spread of
Benefit for our members and their employees
Dear Chamber and Business Association Partners, While metro Denver is not affected as greatly as much of the country, we have seen high rates of unemployment and the loss of health insurance that can result. At HCA Healthcare and HealthONE, we want to remove barriers to care so that our community members feel comfortable seeking routine, preventive, urgent and emergent care. Being insured either through COBRA, Connect for Health Colorado, or Medicaid can support those who need care, and we want to
Gov. Polis Issues Executive Orders in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
Gov. Polis Issues Executive Orders in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic DENVER - Governor Jared Polis extended and amended Executive Orders in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Polis extended an Executive Order to expedite the processing of unemployment insurance claims for Coloradans and will help protect the economic well-being of Colorado’s communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Governor extended an Executive Order to ensure that hospitals and other inpatient treatment
Castle Rock CommUNITY Business Loan Program
The Castle Rock CommUNITY Business Loan Program is available to businesses located within the Town of Castle Rock who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The intent of these $25,000 loans is to help small businesses survive and retain employees during these challenging times. Financing is available over twenty-four months (two years) at an interest rate of 0.00%. No repayments of principal are due during the first SIX months of the loan. Monthly payments over the remaining EIGHTEEN months will be
Celebrating the top large health system in the country!
HCA Healthcare's Continental Division and HealthONE is excited to announce our recognition by IBM Watson Health as the top Large Health System in the country. Please help us spread the word to your constituents, and thank you from all our 11,000 HealthONE colleagues for all you do to keep our communities healthy and vibrant! Attached and below is additional information. As compared to their peer health systems, the hospitals included on the IBM Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems list had better results
Town of Castle Rock Announces 0% Interest $2M CommUNITY loans in Partnership with FirsTier Bank
We are hosting a zoom call on Wednesday, June 24th at 8:00am to share information and answer questions. Zoom link below! Castle Rock Businesses! We are excited to announce the Castle Rock FirsTier 0% interest $2M CommUNITY loan program (*No service charges for 24 months. ) powered by the Town of Castle Rock and supported by Colorado Lending Source and Castle Rock EDC. As many of you know Castle Rock’s short term response to the COVID-19 economic crisis was a multi-pronged approach of PPP/SBA
Colorado General Assembly Adjourns Sine Die, Monday, June 15, 2020
Today the General Assembly completed their final day of session. Rumors circulated in the final week that the legislature would recess, instead of adjourning Sine Die, which would have left the option open to return at a later date. Today, however, the House and Senate passed resolutions to adjourn Sine Die. In order to return in 2020, the Governor could call a special session or the legislature, with two thirds approval, could call a special session. Below, you find the update from the final day of
Castle Rock Named the Best Up-and-Coming Small City Near a Major Metro
Don't Want to Give Up Big-City Life? Check Out These 8 Up-and-Coming Small Cities Close to Major MetrosReady for a slower pace and more space but still want to enjoy the perks of a big city? These small cities offer the best of both worlds.By: Brittany Anas, On Tuesday, June 16, 2020 - 11:15 Over the past few months, the coronavirus pandemic has prompted many people to re-examine their living situations. Amid shutdowns, for instance, having easy access to open space — or a backyard at the very
Colorado General Assembly Daily Update, Monday, June 8, 2020
Today began what could be the last week in the 2020 legislative session. Leadership has indicated that they intend for Friday to be the final day of session. It only takes 3 days to pass a bill, so bills continued to be introduced today. Key Legislative Actions New BillsHB20-1419 State Drug Assistance Program Funding was introduced today. The bill would create a new line item that would receive pharmaceutical rebates that CDPHE currently receives for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. The ADAP provides
Colorado General Assembly Daily Update, 6-1-20, Also updated Executive Order
Last week the General Assembly returned to a different work space at the capitol—temperature checks, glass protective shields, spreading out on the House and Senate floor, and other changes due to the coronavirus. This week, the ground shifted again. Today legislators returned to the capitol covered in graffiti after a turbulent weekend of protests and riots. The turmoil of the weekend weighed on the legislators, made apparent by several impassioned speeches on the House and Senate floor. Denver Mayor
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 21, Week 1 post recess
Under the Dome, Week 21 This week the General Assembly reconvened to complete the 2020 legislative session. The legislature worked Tuesday through Thursday, but after protests turned into riots near the state capitol late Thursday night, leadership decided to cancel work on Friday and Saturday. Protests have erupted in major cities across the United States in response to the death of George Floyd, a black man who died while pinned to the ground by a police officer in Minneapolis earlier this week.
IREA is working to increase blood donations while supporting Parker-area businesses at the same time
IREA is working to increase blood donations while supporting Parker-area businesses at the same time. All donors who give blood through Vitalant (formerly Bonfils Blood Center) at its Parker donation center in June will be entered to win one of thirty $100 gift cards. IREA is providing the gift cards, which are good for Parker-area restaurants. Winners will be randomly drawn the first week of July and notified through a mailed letter accompanied by their gift card. IREA and Vitalant employees and their
General Assembly Resumes the 2020 Legislative Session
Today the General Assembly reconvened to finish up the 2020 legislative session. Legislators returned to a different atmosphere with many new safety protocols in place, fewer lobbyists and members of the public in the building and temperature checks at the entrances. During the morning floor work in the House of Representatives, some legislators sat in the gallery above the chamber in order to allow legislators on the floor to sit socially distanced from one another. Some legislators chose not to wear
Day 69 of the Legislative Recess
Under The Dome The Joint Budget Committee started this week with a $2 billion hole to fill, down from their starting point of a $3.4 billion deficit. The JBC closed the Long Bill late Friday afternoon, with the final decision to set the General Fund Reserve. The Committee set the reserve for FY2020-21 at $468.9 million or 3.84%, down from the current statutory reserve of 7.25%. Throughout the week, the Committee chipped away at the bottom line slowly throughout the week and still had $802 million to go
Governor Polis Issues Guidance for Restaurants, Summer Camps and Private Camping
DENVER - Gov, Jared Polis today announced updates to Safer at Home and changes to restaurants, summer camps and private camping. “We are still a long way from returning to normal, but these updates are a step in the right direction because Coloradans are doing a good job so far limiting our social interactions. If we can continue staying at home as much as possible, wearing face coverings and washing our hands when leaving the house, then we will be able to slow the spread of the virus while reigniting
State seeks input on draft restaurant guidelines
DENVER, May 19, 2020: Today, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released draft proposed guidelines for restaurants to stakeholders. Stakeholders can submit comments to this draft through Friday, May 22 using this online form. Once final, these guidelines will be used when it is safe to start easing COVID-19 related safety restrictions for restaurants. On May 25, the state will decide if restaurants can begin reopening and at what level. This date does not reflect when restaurants may
TREASURY & SBA RELEASE PPP FORGIVENESS APPLICATION
Urgent Alert: SBA and Treasury Release Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application On May 15, 2020, the U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the U.S Department of the Treasury, released the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application and detailed instructions for the application. The form and instructions include several measures to reduce compliance burdens and simplify the process for borrowers, including: · Options for borrowers to
Restaurant Guidance
In case you missed it, here is some of the information that the Governor shared today regarding when restaurants can open to dine in customers. Guidance is expected to be released on Friday. https://kdvr.com/news/coronavirus/some-restaurants-could-open-to-dine-in-customers-next-week-colorado-restaurant-association-says/ Working with the Town, County, School District, Library and several private property owners we have received permission to market the locations shown with red stars below as
Massive Fraud Against State Unemployment Insurance Programs
The United States Secret Service has received reporting of a well-organized Nigerian fraud ring exploiting the COVID-19 crisis to commit large-scale fraud against state unemployment insurance programs. The primary state targeted so far is Washington, while there is also evidence of attacks in North Carolina, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Oklahoma, Wyoming and Florida. It is extremely likely every state is vulnerable to this scheme and will be targeted if they have not been already. In the state of
DCBA, Day 62 of the Legislative Recess
In a piece of good news, it was announced on Friday that the Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs would be the home to US Space Command for at least the next 6 years. Governor Polis welcomed this news, saying that the state is a natural fit for US Space Command with a strong military community and aerospace community. This week Joint Budget Committee members continued to wrestle with setting the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. On Tuesday, economists from Legislative Council Staff (LCS)
Gov. Polis to Meet With President
On Wednesday, Governor Polis will travel to the White House to meet with President Trump to discuss the state’s response to coronavirus and advocate for more federal resources to help Colorado deal with the public health and economic consequences caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Enforcement of Public Health Orders________________________________________Coloradans and local businesses did a fantastic job of obeying the Stay-at-Home order. Widespread compliance with the Stay-at-Home order allowed us to
General Assembly Will Extend Temporary Adjournment 1 Week
DENVER, CO– Democratic Leadership in the General Assembly today announced that the temporary suspension of the legislature will continue until the week of May 25 to give additional time for preparations including safety protocols, to work through appropriate legislation, and to seek greater clarity on potential Congressional action that could significantly impact our state budget. “When we set out a tentative timeline to reconvene the General Assembly, we did so with the recognition that we faced a lot of
DCBA, Day 55 of the Legislative Recess
The Joint Budget Committee met this week to balance the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2020-21. It has been an emotional week for members and staff as they discuss potential cuts to programs. Each day was filled with tough decisions and more bad news. Members have had to defund many programs that they helped create through legislation passed in prior sessions. Throughout the meetings, other legislators hopped on the webinar line and advocated for not defunding items that they cared about. In many
Governor Polis Press Conference May 4th, 2020
COVID-19 Statistics 16, 907 confirmed cases2,838 hospitalized56 counties83,266 people tested851 deathsGovernor Polis Press Conference Governor Polis began by acknowledging the life and the work of retired fire paramedic Paul Cary. Paul is a Colorado hero who, despite the risks, bravely volunteered to travel to New York City to help those suffering in one of the worst hotspots of COVID-19. He was later diagnosed with COVID-19, and passed away on April 30th at the age of 66. This is the kind of character we
DCBA, Under the Dome, Day 48 of the Legislative Recess
Under The Dome, Week 17The Joint Budget Committee begins work on Monday in a two week sprint to rewrite the state budget ahead of the full General Assembly returning on May 18. The Executive Committee of Legislative Council will also meet ahead of the full reconvening. Joint Rule 44 gives leadership the power to set the agenda for the remaining session. At this point, leadership has indicated that a bill needs to be “fast, friendly, and free” or directly related to the COVID-19 crisis. Before the
DCBA, Under the Dome, Day 41 of the Legislative Recess
Under The Dome, Week 16On Monday, April 27, a week before the Joint Budget Committee is set to return to work, staff budget balancing recommendations will be released to the public. The coronavirus pandemic has brought much of the state and nation’s economy to a standstill. The slowdown presented challenges to businesses ordered to close and left an unprecedented number of people without work. State and local government budgets will feel the economic cliff in a significant way, and elected officials are now
County Government phased reopening begins May 4
New remote and in-person services, 61 online services and public access to some facilities increase services delivery choices. Published on May 1, 2020 in 2020 & Breaking News Thousands of citizens and businesses seeking services from Douglas County over the past seven weeks discovered the depth and breadth of what could be achieved without ever leaving their homes, businesses or job sites. “Leveraging the combination of the County’s and our customers’ investment in technology, as well as the devotion of
FRAUD ALERT: Consumer Fraud Protection - 18th Judicial District - Bitcoin Blackmail Scam
Recently, the Consumer Fraud Protection Division of the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office has fielded increasing numbers of complaints from concerned citizens. Several members of our community have received emails on their personal accounts from unknown sources stating that their computer has been hacked, their webcam is being monitored, and their contact list has been seized. In addition, the scammers state that they have recorded the complainant visiting adult websites and threaten to distribute
Tri-County Health Dept Daily COVID-19 Update 4.30.20
As of 6:00 pm today, in TCHD's jurisdiction, there are 4,411 confirmed cases with 189 deaths. In Colorado, there are 15,284 confirmed cases with 777 deaths. In the United States, there are 1,067,289 confirmed cases with 62,870 deaths. Globally, there are 3,249,667 confirmed cases with 232,936 deaths.* Tri-County Health Department services that are currently open Virtual COVID-19 call center has staff working remotely. Staff take calls and emails from providers, businesses, and the public that
Reopening Tip, Flushing your building's tap water
Re-opening Businesses Please share this information with your member network to help ensure safe and essential tap water is available to employees returning to work and for customers.Flushing your building's tap waterAs Colorado re-opens offices and other buildings, we encourage building owners and management companies to flush their drinking water pipes. When buildings are mostly vacant for extended time periods, there can be a decline in water quality. Both the Colorado Building Owners and Managers
Tri-County Health Department Daily COVID-19 Update
Monday, April 27, 2020Gov. Polis Provides Update on Transition to Safer at HomeGov. Polis Provides Update on Transition to Safer at Home Governor Jared Polis today provided an update on Colorado’s transition to Safer at Home and discussed how this will impact Coloradans. The Governor also discussed the Executive Order and Public Health Order from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment that outlines Safer at Home requirements. “The Stay-at-Home order has done just what we
Governor Polis Press Conference, April 27, 2020
COVID-19 Statistics 13,870 cases2,479 hospitalized 812 currently hospitalized64 discharged in the last 24 hours56 counties66,341 people tested695 deaths Safer at Home Public Health Order: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l13eSver8iS1fE149gmKHCLoHPgutNvO/viewGuidelines on Safer at Home: https://covid19.colorado.gov/safer-at-home Governor Polis Press Conference Today Governor Polis gave the first press conference after the state stay at home order was lifted. The focus was on the release of
Playbook for reopening
Dear Business Leaders, These unprecedented times have been challenging, to say the least. However, we’re proud of you for helping our community succeed, from donating meals to essential employees, to sewing masks, to simply sharing resources on social media. We are truly #CRCStrong. As we move forward, we know you are anxious to reopen your doors. To ensure the safety of our community and to help you navigate the new normal, we have created the Work Hard. Work
New Exec Orders on Safer at Home, 4-26
Attached the newest Executive Orders. New Norrmal Advisory BoardSafer at HomeElective Surgeries PLEASE NOTE – This is the Statewide standard, cities and counties can have stricter standards. Please see below for more in lower standards and guidelines. Changes happening during Safer at Home will be phased in, with different changes going into effect April 27, May 1, and May 4. Safer at Home Order Elective Surgery and ProceduresGovernor’s New Normal Advisory Board The Safer at Home Executive
Colorado & Nevada Join California, Oregon & Washington in Western States Pact
Western States Governors: Health outcomes and science – not politics – will guide decisions to modify stay at home orders DENVER – Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak today announced their respective states are joining California, Oregon and Washington in the Western States Pact -- a working group of Western state governors with a shared vision for modifying stay at home and fighting COVID-19.“Coloradans are working together to slow the spread of COVID-19 and have important
Senate strikes deal on $484 billion relief package for small business, hospitals, testing
Senate strikes deal on $484 billion relief package for small business, hospitals, testing PUBLISHED TUE, APR 21 2020 | Lauren Hirsch @LAURENSHIRSCH | Yelena Dzhanova @YELENADZHANOVA KEY pOINTSThe Senate reached a $484 billion coronavirus relief agreement that includes small business loans and funding for hospitals and testing.It hopes to pass the bill Tuesday afternoon and send it to the House. The deal would allocate $320 billion more for the Paycheck Protection Program, $60 billion of which would be
STEM School Highlands Lends UV Sterilization Cabinets to First Responders
Highlands Ranch, Colo. - On Monday, April 20, members from STEM School Highlands delivered two UV Sterilization Cabinets to first responders within the South Metro Fire District to assist with the sterilization of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) for reuse. “With our school being closed, it only made sense to find a use for these cabinets,” said Dr. Neely Clapp, STEM Secondary Science Teacher. “We’re in a unique position to help with a much-needed resource and we are so happy to be able to
Tri-County Health Department Public Health Incident Management Team Situation Report
Late breaking news: Gov. Polis outlined his upcoming "Safer-at-home" order allowing more businesses to open on April 27 after the "Stay-at-home" order ends Governor Polis said that the data is showing that the stay-at-home order has been effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19, with the daily hospitalization rate leveling off. Polis said that many retail stores will be able to open on May 1, with spacing that adheres to the 6-foot rule, and employees wearing face masks. "Vulnerable populations,
Governor Polis Press Conference - Update, Next Phase - Safer at Home
Yesterday Governor Polis shared an approach for the month of May, after the statewide stay at home order expires Monday, April 27. In the next phase, Coloradans will have to continue to move to a sustainable way of social distancing, and still keeping social interactions at a minimum. Non-essential businesses will be allowed to reopen under some restrictions to limit person to person contact. Official guidance on the restrictions is yet to come – we will send as soon as released. Here is a Denver
COventure Forward: helping entrepreneurs and small businesses through the crisis
The Deming Center for Entrepreneurship in CU Boulder’s Leeds School of Business is making resources available to help entrepreneurs and small businesses through the COVID-19 crisis. They’re creating ways to support businesses by connecting them with mentors, providing insights from our faculty, and eventually through student support on projects. Small business owners and entrepreneurs can gain access to the collective strength and assets of Colorado-based universities, mentors and faculty to help
Polls Show Signs of Trust in Institutions amid COVID-19 | Pew Research Center
The ongoing effort to fight COVID-19 wins broad support, even across partisan dividesBY CARY FUNK This article was originally published in Scientific American.View entire article here
Colorado Employment Declines in March
VIEW SUMMARY OF MARCH INFO AND THE BEGINNING OF THE UNEMPLOYMENT SPIKESThe Bureau of Labor Statistics recently released its Colorado employment data for March. The data shows that seasonally adjusted employment declined by 3,900. As expected, U.S. retail and auto sales and most leading indicators have declined. The Conference Board has provided four scenarios for the economy - pick your poison. Unfortunately, they all indicate that Q2 is going to be tough. Until the volatility subsides, the weekly
DCBA, Under the Dome, Day 34 of the Legislative Recess
Under The Dome, Week 15 Officially, the state legislature is in a holding pattern until the JBC is planned to start in a few weeks. It was announced this week that when the legislature does return, Representative McCluskie will serve as the chair of the House Appropriations Committee and Rep. Esgar will be vice-chair. Rep. Esgar will have her hands full serving as Chair of the Joint Budget Committee, which has nearly $3 billion in reductions to accomplish in a short time frame. Many legislators are
Outstanding Business Owners: Andrea & Steve Peterson
OPENING UP AMERICA AGAIN
President Trump has unveiled Guidelines for Opening Up America Again, a three-phased approach based on the advice of public health experts. These steps will help state and local officials when reopening their economies, getting people back to work, and continuing to protect American lives. View Opening Up America Again Guidelines
County Releases 5-point COVID-19 Economic Recovery Framework
Community leaders receive public health director input on a three-phased plan to safely resume public life and re-open non-essential businesses. Douglas County today revealed a framework for reopening the County’s economy, developed in collaboration with the Tri-County Health Department, who applauded the approach for accentuating the need to pair the plan with an effective public health strategy. The plan, first presented to Tri-County Health Department Director, John Douglas, M.D., was accompanied
Under the Dome, Day 27 of the Legislative Recess
Seven states—Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Vermont—are still in legislative session. Twenty six states, including Colorado, have suspended legislative sessions due to COVID and thirteen states have wrapped up their 2020 legislative session. This week a tentative timeline for passing the state budget crystalized. Updated figure setting documents will be available to the public on April 27. The Joint Budget Committee is expected to meet again beginning on Monday,
Town Council approves new small business grant, loan programs
The COVID-19 pandemic is causing unprecedented small business impacts. Accordingly, Town Council is offering never-before-seen local business support programs, to help the many outlets that contribute to our community’s economy and character continue to succeed. Council approved the latest of these initiatives Tuesday – a program offering one-time grants of up to $5,000 per business, and another offering firms no-interest, no-fee loans of up to $25,000. Together, these new programs represent
Verizon Small Business Recovery Fund (Grants)
About the Program Nonprofit organization, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, received a $2.5 million investment from Verizon that will be used to offer grants of up to $10,000 to help small businesses fill urgent financial gaps until they can resume normal operations or until more permanent financing becomes available. The first round of grant applications were collected from March 25th – April 4th, with a second round to be released mid-April. Applications will be reviewed and then entered into a
Governor Polis Evening Address
Governor Polis gave a statewide address this evening, the first evening address he has made while in office. There was not much new information, it was really meant to inspire Coloradans to do their part by staying home and wearing masks when they do go out, to make sure that the state gets through this crisis with as little loss of life as possible. The big update was that the statewide stay at home order, set to end on April 11, is now extended until April 26th. He expressed frustration that the
Gov. Polis Takes Further Action To Address COVID-19
Information courtesy of the Governor's Office Published on April 7, 2020 in 2020 & Breaking News Gov. Polis signed Executive Orders today taking further action to address COVID-19 in Colorado. Gov. Polis signed an Executive Order amending and extending D 2020 017 to extend the state-wide stay at home order until April 26, 2020. View here. The Governor also rescinded Executive Order D 2020 013 requiring all Colorado employers to reduce their in-person workforce by 50%. This is being rescinded because it
Data Shows Depth of Economic Crisis in Colorado
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recently released its Colorado employment data for February. The data shows the state was on solid footing prior to the COVID-19 crisis. As data becomes available, it is possible to quantify the severity of the economic crisis. For example, over 10 million Americans have filed initial unemployment claims in the past three weeks. By comparison, about 11 million initial claims were files during the entire year of 2019. This national data portends what we can expect to see in
DCBA, Under the Dome, Day 20 of Legislative Recess
State Legislative Update Governor Polis signed HB20-1158 into law on Wednesday, which expands access to fertility treatments and in vitro fertilization by making changes to insurance carrier requirements. In signing the bill, the Governor released an accompanying letter explaining that while he signed HB20-1158, he would not sign any other insurance mandates this legislative session unless they are related to COVID-19. And in future years, he asked that bills proposing insurance mandates receive an
Governor Polis Press Conference, March 30, 2020
Governor Polis today held a press conference, similar to the press conference on Friday, sharing data on the need for personal protective equipment, the most up to date number of cases and deaths, and data on the effect of the restaurant and bar closures have had on social distancing. In response to a question about if he would extend the stay at home order, Governor Polis cited the new goal of April 30th from President Trump and said that the state stay at home order will likely need to be
General Assembly Extends Recess until April 2
On Monday, the House and Senate of the Colorado General Assembly met very briefly and adjourned until 10:00am Thursday April 2. 9 members of the Colorado House of Representatives were present for the morning proceedings. Since there was not a quorum, House Majority Leader Alec Garnett moved to adjourn until 10am on Thursday, April 2nd invoking Article 5, Section 11 of the Colorado Constitution. This section of the Constitution states: A majority of each house shall constitute a quorum, but a smaller
Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and Checklist
Please find attached and at this link the U.S. Chamber’s Coronavirus Emergency Loans Small Business Guide and Checklist. This is the first of a number of resources we are developing to help you connect your members with the resources recently approved by Congress to respond to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. As many of you are aware, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act allocated $350 billion to help small businesses keep workers employed amid the pandemic and economic
Under The Dome, Week 12 Session, Week 2 Recess
COVID-19 Updates In Colorado 1,734 people have tested positive for COVID-19, over 239 people have been hospitalized, and 31 people have died due to the virus, it is present in 42 counties, 11,676 people have been tested, and there have been 9 outbreaks at residential and non-hospital health care facilities. In the past two weeks public officials ordered the closure of many parts of public life, culminating this week with a growing number of local Stay at Home orders until Governor Polis issued a
Keeping American Workers Paid and Employed Act
Latest information that we have regarding Federal, State and Local assistance that will be available. We have condensed many different sources of information into one summary below. If you need more information on one particular item, we will be taking questions from the Castle Rock business community on the virtual meeting tomorrow at 1pm, you can also email me directly. View Keeping American Workers Paid and Employed ActCOVID-19 Small Business Response Resources Federal$2 Trillion Stimulus Package
Gov. Polis: Colorado is Leading by Example and Taking Action to Address COVID-19
CENTENNIAL - Gov. Polis provided an update on the state’s response to COVID-19. Today he signed an executive order directing all of Colorado’s non-critical employers to reduce their in-person workforce by 50 percent. In accordance with the executive order, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is also issuing a public health order. “As long as I am in a position to lead Colorado’s response, I will continue to take bold steps and do everything in my power to protect our medical
Gov. Polis: Highlights, Landlords, Alcohol Sales, SBA Loans, Tax Day Deadline
DENVER - Today, Governor Polis provided an update on Colorado’s response to COVID-19 and announced a number of actions the state is taking to support Colorado’s economy. “This virus has significantly impacted our economy here at home and across the world. We know this has been challenging for our local businesses and workers, and we are working to provide relief including deferral of taxes and suspension of evictions to Colorado families and individuals. These times are difficult, but they are
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 11, Week 1 COVID 19 Recess
Coronavirus in Colorado People all across the state are adjusting to life during the coronavirus pandemic, working from home, learning online, and making fewer trips outside of the house. Perhaps more shocking than the announcements from public leaders of measures to slow the spread of the coronavirus is the pace at which many aspects of everyday life have ground to a halt. As of today, in Colorado there are 277 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 4 deaths from the virus, and roughly 3,000 tests have been
New Funding Options through KIVA Partnership with Colorado Lending Source!
Supporting Small Business with KIVA Hub Partnership Colorado Lending Source cares about small business and being a resource to the community. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, we are already seeing the negative economic impacts on small businesses. To continue supporting our community we have partnered with Kiva to become their newest hub and offer an innovative new micro-loan product! We want to make access to affordable capital as simple and impactful as possible during these challenging
Historic, Under The Dome, Week 10
Highlights of the Week This week was marked by headlines of the escalating outbreak of coronavirus cases and disruptions, closures, and cancellations. The landscape changed quickly since March 5 when the first case of coronavirus was announced in Colorado to the end of this week when the legislature met on Saturday to pass a resolution to go in to a unprecedented two week recess. On Saturday, the House and Senate passed two relevant resolutions: HJR20-1006 asks the Colorado Supreme Court to issue an
Open Message To Our Members, COVID-19
Like all of you, the Chamber is sensitive to how the COVID-19 pandemic impacts both business and community. Without doubt, we are in uncharted waters. It is critical we work together to communicate a clear message - Castle Rock is OPEN for Business! The way we deliver may look differently, yet our doors are OPEN. The best way to navigate the rocky waters is through communication and facts, not fear and panic. As such, we plan to do our part to keep an open line of communication to you about the
