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Governor Polis's Update on COVID-19, and Support for Local Restaurants
“Coloradans are very alarmed by the increased number of very sick people coming into hospitals and know that we must do better with the basics like reducing the number of people we are with, washing our hands, avoiding crowds, and wearing a mask,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Colorado last week recorded more than 1,000 cases of COVID-19 in one 24-hour period, the most since March. The state saw another day with more than 1,000 cases and alarmingly the positivity rate is above 5%. On September 4, there were
Governor Polis Takes Action on Housing Stability
DENVER - Governor Jared Polis today signed an Executive Order implementing a number of recommendations from the Special Eviction Prevention Task Force. The Governor convened the Task Force in August to examine housing instability challenges due to COVID-19. “My top priority is protecting the health and safety of Coloradans, which includes secure housing. Implementing these thoughtful recommendations is another important step toward creating housing stability for more Coloradans during this
Douglas County released its 2nd Quarter 2020 Douglas County Economic Development Report.
A few highlights include: Brookings introduced the Metro Recovery Index to track the impact of the COVID-19 recession on the 53 largest metro areas based on indicators including job losses and unemployment, air passengers, and active real estate listings. The inaugural index studied indicators from February 2020 to the present to calculate the effects of the pandemic, and found that Denver ranked 18th for least amount of job losses, 19th for percentage point change in unemployment rate, 13th for
Douglas County small businesses encouraged to apply for COVID-19 impacts grant
Watch and share this video invitation from your County Commissioners and apply by Oct. 30. Eligible nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organizations that serve Douglas County residents are invited to apply for COVID-19 impacts reimbursement grants, funded through the County’s share of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Watch a message from your County Commissioners to learn more about this program. Community-based charitable organizations are invited to review eligibility
Town Council Candidate Forum Oct 1
Join us for the Town Council Candidates Virtual Forum on Oct. 1st hosted by Castle Rock Chamber, Castle Rock EDC and the Downtown Alliance. Viewing Options:STREAMING ONLINE (LISTEN ONLY) WEBEX OPTION
Congratulations, Douglas County, Colorado – You are second healthiest community in America
Published on September 21, 2020 in 2020, Breaking News, Economic Foundations, Health and Human Services, Historic and Natural Resources, Land Management & Development, Multimodal Transportation & Personal and Public Safety Smile big if you live in Douglas County, Colorado! Your community has been ranked second nationwide as the healthiest community in America, according to the 2020 Healthiest Communities rankings by U.S. News and World Report, released in collaboration with the Aetna Foundation. Los
September 2020 Quarterly Revenue Forecast
September 2020 Revenue Forecast Overview of Economic Outlook During the September 2020 Revenue Forecast presentation to the Joint Budget Committee, Legislative Council Staff (LCS) and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) both stressed that while economic activity has recovered faster and stronger than expected, the recession remains unlike any that the state has seen before. The plunge in economic activity in the second quarter was one of the sharpest declines on record. United States
Town Council approves new small business grant program
Now in its sixth month of local impacts, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause interruptions to our area’s small businesses.Accordingly, Town Council has approved a second round of small business grants, to help the many outlets that contribute to our community’s economy and character continue to succeed.The application for the second-round COVID-19 Small Business Support Grant Program opens today, Sept. 8, and will be available through 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25. Non-home-based businesses that have been
Chamber members and community supporters lend a helping hand
Castle Rock Chamber rallies members and community supporters to stand up and show up for struggling businesses in our community. Our purpose at the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce is to create economic prosperity by facilitating community leadership. In order to be successful in our mission, we need our members and our community supporters who share our same altruistic spirit and desire to support, advocate, and lead. Together we can help many, will you make the pledge to stand with us to support
Douglas County CARES: Your Small Business Grant Program
County launches $2.5 million Small Business Grant Program to ease COVID-19 Impacts Small businesses countywide with physical locations and 100 or fewer employees may be eligible for COVID-19 impacts reimbursement grants of up to $10,000, funded through the County’s share of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, distributed through the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA). The aim of this program is to reimburse local small businesses a portion of the expenses
Final Citizen Led Initiative Qualifies: 3 legislative referred measures, 1 referendum petition, and 7 citizen led initiatives on the November 2020 ballot
Recently the Secretary of State verified signatures submitted for Initiative #257 Local Voter Approval of Gaming Limits in Black Hawk, Cripple Creek, and Central City. The initiative proposes to remove the single bet limits and allow the voters in towns where gaming is allowed to establish gaming limits and the games allowed in casinos. Initiative #257 will be the final measure to be placed on the November ballot. Next week the Legislative Council will review the draft blue book language for this
Are you prepared for a community disaster?
Are you prepared for a community disaster? Nationwide poll reveals 41% of Americans are not. Published on September 1, 2020 in 2020, Breaking News & Personal and Public Safety A 2018 nationwide poll by YouGov Omnibus, revealed that while three-quarters of Americans say they are worried about natural disasters or serious incidents affecting their communities, forty-one percent also say they are not prepared. National Preparedness Month, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) annual disaster
County launches $2.5 million Small Business Grant Program to ease COVID-19 impacts
CARES Act funds reimburse eligible applicants for up to $10K in costs for PPE or structural changes. Published on August 27, 2020 in 2020, Breaking News & Economic Foundations Small businesses countywide with physical locations in the County and 100 or fewer employees may be eligible for COVID-19 impacts reimbursement grants of up to $10,000, funded through the County’s share of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, distributed through the Colorado Department of Local
Castle Rock Chamber announces annual award winners, successful business couple among the honorees
The Chamber's role to be the catalyst, convener and champion for the business community was evident at this year's annual banquet where award nominees, community leaders and members reflected on the Chamber’s sixty-five years of commitment to our business community. The annual event, a time-honored tradition, provides the opportunity to announce new leadership, recognize Chamber's successes, and to celebrate the outstanding business leaders in our community. Castle Rock Chamber Chairman, Mike McNairy,
FirsTier Castle Rock CommUNITY Business Loan Program
Castle Rock Business Leaders, As you know in late June Castle Rock EDC in partnership with FirsTier Bank, the Town of Castle Rock and Colorado Lending Source launched the FirsTier Bank CommUNITY Loan program that lends up to $25,000 at 0% interest to help Castle Rock businesses pivot, adjust and reinvest in their businesses. This program expires for application on August 31st 2020. Below is the FirsTier Bank CommUNITY loan program information sheet for your review. Please feel free to pass this on to
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The 2020 issue of Livability Castle Rock, CO is out and now available online!
Livability Castle Rock, Colorado, an annual print magazine and digital content marketing program, encourages business investment, talent recruitment and relocation by reaching entrepreneurs, site selectors, corporate executives and other talented individuals and families attracted to our quality of life. This is the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce’s primary quality-of-life marketing program for talent attraction. We hope you’ll join us in spreading the word about what a great place this is to live and do
Douglas County Human Services Department recognized with Distinguished Performance Award
For the fourth time, Douglas County’s Human Services Department stands out as exemplary among its peers statewide. Published on August 7, 2020 in 2020, Breaking News & Health and Human Services How did Douglas County communities benefit from their Human Services Department’s recent recognition as having one of the highest performing teams in the state during the 2019 calendar year? “Your remarkable performance over this last year helped ensure that Douglas County families in need didn’t go hungry, were
Outlets at Castle Rock Hosts Colorado’s Favorite Shop-for-a-Cause Event with Social Distancing Measu
Outlets at Castle Rock’s 15th Annual Shopping Extravaganza, with the reigning mantra “You Shop, Everyone Wins,” will take place this year with COVID-19 precautionary and safety measures from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 and Sunday, Oct. 4. This year’s charitable shopping event will benefit more than 15 local organizations, including the Crisis Center, Humane Society of the South Platte Valley and Susan G. Komen Colorado. This year, the signature event has been adapted to ensure effective
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
White Construction Group Completes Two Projects in Castle Rock
White Construction Group, a development and commercial construction company that manages and builds some of the Rocky Mountain region’s most notable projects, recently completed two projects in Castle Rock: a new, ground-up Meadows Town Center III mixed-use project and a remodel for Independent Financial. Meadows Town Center III is a 21,400-square-foot, $4.5 million retail and office development, the third built in the Meadows, located just west of the Castle Rock Outlets and across from the Castle Rock
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
MILLER’S LANDING UNVEILS PLANS FOR INNOVATIVE NEW OFFICE BUILDING
Miller’s Landing has unveiled plans for a new 150,000 square-foot multi-tenant office building that will offer healthy, safe and smart offices that meet the higher standards of today’s new normal working environments. It will provide office users with versatile office space that meets modern health and safety demands in the era of COVID-19. Miller’s Landing in Castle Rock, CO, is one of Southeast Denver’s newest and most innovative mixed-use commercial developments. It will feature a dynamic town center
Castle Rock Chamber Postpones 17th Annual Castle Rock WineFest
The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce has made the difficult decision to postpone the 17th Annual Castle Rock WineFest event scheduled for July 18th. Since 2003, this outdoor wine tasting event draws wine aficionados for the enormous variety of Colorado wines. Selected by the Colorado Wine Industry Development Board, Castle Rock WineFest is one of only five officially sanctioned Colorado Wine Festivals showcasing more than 180 varietals of Colorado wine. Since the beginning of the pandemic the Chamber
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, June 9, 2020
Bills on the Move HB20-1293 Emergency Telephone Service Charges passed the Senate Finance Committee yesterday on a 6-1 vote, the Senate Appropriations Committee on a 6-4 vote, and the Senate on second reading today. HB20-1420 Adjust Tax Expenditures for State Education Fund continues to be debated in the House Finance Committee.HB20-1421 Delinquent Interest Payments Property Tax passed the House Finance Committee unanimously with no amendments. SCR20-001 Repeal Gallagher Amendment passed the Senate on
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
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
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)
May 2020 Revenue Forecast
Overview of Economic OutlookLegislative Council Staff and the Office of State Planning and Budgeting presented updated revenue forecasts this morning to the members of the Joint Budget Committee, confirming the suspicion that the state faces incredible revenue shortfalls in the current year and upcoming year due to the recession triggered by the coronavirus. This revenue forecast replaces the March projections and members of the JBC will use it to set the budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2020-21 that
Leadership Douglas County Now Accepting 20-21 Applications
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
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
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
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,
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
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,
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
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
Support Local Businesses, PLAY BINGO
The Castle Rock Chamber has partnered with Radix Advisors in promoting a local business bingo activity.Shop at businesses that are open during the CoronaVirus shut down and you will be entered into a drawing for prizes including travel coffee mugs and gift cards to local businesses courtesy of Radix Advisors.Follow the instructions on the bingo form to learn how to submit your bingo completion and claim your prizes.
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
JBC Action Postponed Until April 7 at Earliest
While the legislature is set to return on March 30, the outbreak is showing no signs of slowing down and there is the potential that the chambers will gavel in only to extend the recess. The state capitol, initially only closed Monday through Wednesday this week to the public, is now closed to the public indefinitely. The Joint Budget Committee, initially set to meet on March 23rd, will now meet as early as April 7th. We will keep you posted as we learn more! DENVER, CO -- JBC Chair Representative
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
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 9
Highlights of the Week On Thursday this week, a bill to implement a public option for health insurance was introduced. The bill was long expected after a final report on the public option was released in late 2019 by the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) and the Division of Insurance (DOI). As expected, HB 20-1349 contains much of the proposal from the executive branch agencies with a few differences. The bill requires health insurance companies to offer a plan, the details of
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 8
Under the Dome, Week 8 Highlights of the Week It was a week of long nights at the capitol, including one night that stretched into morning. The House of Representative debated the Death Penalty Repeal, SB20-100, from Monday midafternoon until 4:00am on Tuesday. The House ultimately passed the bill by a vote of 38-27. The bill heads to Governor Polis, who has indicated that he will sign the bill. The House Energy and Environment Committee previously heard testimony on HB20-1025, Sales Tax
Update to the Population & Development Report 2020
The Douglas County Demographic Summary has been updated and is available online. This summary highlights the demographic changes in 2019. https://www.douglas.co.us/documents/douglas-county-demographics-summary.pdf The link to the entire Population & Development Report is: http://www.douglas.co.us/about-us/demographics/population-and-development-report/
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 7
Highlights of the Week This week Representative Cathy Kipp, a Democrat from Fort Collins, was appointed to House Education Committee, replacing Representative Julie McCluskie who now sits on the Joint Budget Committee. Representative Kipp served on the Poudre School District Board of Education from 2011-2017 and was appointed to the state legislature in 2018. SB20-093, Consumer And Employee Dispute Resolution Fairness, which proposes changes to arbitration procedures, was laid over daily this
Schomp Automotive Group provides $250K gift and sponsorship to ACC's Sturm Collaboration Campus
CASTLE ROCK, Colo. (Feb. 20, 2020) – Schomp Automotive Group is providing a $250,000 gift and sponsorship to Arapahoe Community College’s (ACC) Sturm Collaboration Campus in Castle Rock. This gift will be matched dollar for dollar by the Sturm Family Foundation, which will provide $500,000 for future program innovation initiatives at the campus and student scholarships. The state of the art boardroom at the campus will be named the ‘Schomp Automotive Innovation Center’. This investment supports the ACC
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 6
Highlights of the Week This week Representative Richard Champion was sworn in to represent HD 38, a southern metro district that includes Littleton. Former Representative Susan Beckman resigned in January. Representative Champion previously served as Mayor of Columbine Valley and is the founder of a small oil and gas company. He will sit on the House Finance Committee as well as the House Health & Insurance Committee. SB20-093, Consumer and Employee Resolution Dispute Fairness, was laid over
Master Magnetics Launches New Website
Highlights include enhanced shopping experience and ease of use Master Magnetics, Inc. is proud to announce the launch of its new website, redesigned to better serve customers from all industries and customer segments. The website further positions the company as the expert source of information and products in the magnetic field. With more than 20 million magnets in stock, the new magnetsource.com makes it easy for users to find the right magnetic solution for their application. Major new features
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 5
DCBA Bill Tracker: https://statebillinfo.com/SBI/index.cfm?fuseaction=Public.Dossier&id=27133&pk=619&style=pinstripe Under the Dome, Week 5 Highlights of the Week The vacancy for House District 6, a Denver district seat left vacant after now-Senator Chris Hansen moved from the House to the Senate, was filled this week when new member Steven Woodrow was chosen for the position by a vacancy committee. Representative Woodrow is a consumer rights attorney. In another change this week,
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 4
Highlights of the Week On Monday, a bill to repeal the death penalty in Colorado was heard in the Senate Judiciary Committee. The bill passed Committee and on Thursday an emotional debate by the full Senate lasted well into the afternoon. Democrat Senator Rhonda Fields and Republican Senator Bob Gardner led much of the opposition. They argued that Colorado’s death penalty law differs from other states and how little the punishment is used, citing that there are only 3 people currently on death row
Encore groundbreaking
Confluence Companies held a ground breaking ceremony last week to kick off the Encore project. Encore, formerly known as Festival Park Commons, is a proposed redevelopment of three lots Downtown, just south of Town Hall. The proposed project is a result of a request for proposals the Town distributed in 2017, specifically for a new parking structure. Construction began in fall 2019 and will likely continue through 2021. The seven-story building that includes 124 condominiums, 17,881 sq. ft. for retail,
Chamber's DCBA takes position on 7 bills
The Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce and the Douglas County Business Alliance have taken a position on the following 7 bills. HB 1002 College Credit for Work Experience SupportHB 1025 Sales Tax Exemption Industrial and Manufacturing Energy Use OpposeHB 1089 Employee Protection Lawful Off-duty Activities OpposeHB 1093 County Authority License and Regulate
Under the Dome, Week 3 (2020)
Under The Dome, Week 3 Highlights of the Week On Tuesday this week, advocates from Colorado Families First filed two ballot proposals that would create a paid family and medical leave program. This is the first step in the citizen-initiated ballot measure process and these proposals will still need to go through the State Title Board and gather enough signatures to be placed on the November 2020 ballot. This move both puts pressure on lawmakers to pass their own version of a paid family leave program
DCBA, Under The Dome, Week 2
DCBA Legislative Bill Link: https://statebillinfo.com/SBI/index.cfm?fuseaction=Public.Dossier&id=27133&pk=619&style=pinstripe Highlight of the Week This week there were two changes to the House of Representatives, one expected and one unexpected. The vacancy committee to replace Senator Court’s vacant Senate seat chose Representative Chris Hansen as the new Senator for the Denver district. Senator Court’s resignation also left an open leadership position, the Speaker Pro Tem, who leads the
DCBA Under the Dome - Week 1 and DCBA Legislative Bill Tracking link
DCBA Legislative Bill Link: https://statebillinfo.com/SBI/index.cfm?fuseaction=Public.Dossier&id=27133&pk=619&style=pinstripe Highlights of the Week The 2020 legislative session kicked off this week with a 164 bills introduced, opening day speeches by legislative leadership, and the Governor’s State of the State Address. Leading up to the first day of the legislative session, there are several changes in the legislature due to Representative Kimmi Lewis passing away after a battle with
Colorado Business Review -- 2020 Outlook Forum Highlights
This issue highlights the 55th annual Colorado Business Economic Outlook Forum held on December 9, 2019 in Denver. Colorado’s employment growth is expected to slow this year compared to 2019, although the state will still be among the top 10 for job growth nationally. Read/Download the Colorado Business Review, Issue 1, 2020
County Commissioners Adopt 2020 Budget
Budget dedicates $214.4 million of the $463.2 million budget to Transportation and $127.4 million to Public Safety Published on January 9, 2020 in 2020, Breaking News, Multimodal Transportation & Personal and Public Safety “Our Board’s spending priorities are once again informed by citizen input, specifically the priority placed on transportation and public safety,” said Board Chair Roger Partridge, during the Board’s public hearing on December 13, 2019, at which the County’s 2020 Budget was
Opening Day of the 2020 Legislative Session
Legislator Changes Under The Golden Dome House Committee Schedule: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/houseschedule2020.pdf Senate Committee Schedule: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/senateschedule2020.pdf House Committee Assignments: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2020_house_committee_membership.pdf Senate Committee Assignments: https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/2020_senate_committee_membership.pdf Leading up to the first day of the
Pre-Apprenticeship Offers Students View into Careers in Healthcare
CASTLE ROCK – In December 2019, 16 Douglas County School District (DCSD) students completed the inaugural pre-apprenticeship course offered at the newly-opened Arapahoe Community College (ACC) Sturm Collaboration Campus.Officially titled “HPR 123: Allied Health Pre-Apprenticeship,” the course is a collaboration between ACC, DCSD, and Centura Health to help students learn about opportunities in the healthcare field through a combination of academic lectures and hands-on experience. Students shadow
MONEY magazine ranks Castle Rock 40th Best Places to Live
The Best Places to Live in America, Castle Rock's #40From cities to towns to neighborhoods, here's where you should — and can afford to — settle down. See all 100. by Shaina Mishkin, Prachi Bhardwaj, Olivia Raimonde, and Chloe Wilt Photo Credit: NickLucey.com View the entire list at: http://money.com/money/collection/best-places-to-live-2019/How MONEY Chose the Best Places to Live 2019 To create MONEY’s Best Places to Live ranking, we looked only at places with populations of 50,000 or greater.
Mixing Old With New in Historic Downtown Castle Rock
Rapid growth in suburban community has not affected its identityBY KEVIN TILSON Published: 2019.01.24 03:00 PM A Castle Rock building that dates back to 1918, the B&B Café, was once the site of an infamous gunfight where a fugitive shot and killed the Town Marshall. A bullet hole from the gunfight can still be seen in the café’s tin ceiling, reminiscent of Castle Rock’s rich western history. The streets of Castle Rock are lined with historic structures with stories of their own about
6 Popular Misconceptions About the Chamber That Could Be Limiting Your Business
Chamber membership is good for business because it influences the community's perception of you. However, many business owners don't know exactly what the chamber does and so they don't take advantage of the help and resources it offers. For a minimum investment, the chamber can help your business grow in ways that may be difficult for you to do on your own. But if you believe these popular chamber misconceptions, you've likely put off joining and that could hurt your business. 1.Membership Costs a Lot
U.S. Chamber Awards Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce with 4-Star Accreditation
U.S. Chamber Awards Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce with 4-Star Accreditation The United States Chamber of Commerce today awarded the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce with 4-Star Accreditation for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. “Business leaders are a critical voice in conversations about promoting economic growth and job creation in their communities.” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, U.S. Chamber vice president of Federation Relations and
