Last month, community leaders from across our region traveled to Denver for Southwest Colorado Days at the Capitol, an annual opportunity to connect directly with state leaders and advocate for the priorities that matter most to our communities. This year, 17 community leaders participated, representing Durango, Pagosa Springs, Ignacio and Mancos.
The two-day program was packed with activity. Our group attended legislative briefings, participated in policy discussions with elected officials, observed House and Senate floor sessions, and met with several key state agencies, including the Colorado Energy Office, the Department of Local Affairs, the Office of Economic Development and International Trade, and the Colorado Chamber Alliance. We also had the opportunity to meet directly with influential state leaders, including the President of the Senate, the Senate Minority Leader, members of the Joint Budget Committee and the Colorado Attorney General.
One of the most important aspects of this trip was ensuring that the issues we raised reflected the concerns of our regional business community. Before traveling to Denver, the Durango Chamber conducted a survey of local businesses and stakeholders to help shape our common talking points. Four themes clearly rose to the top: attainable housing, access to health care, child care, and workforce development.
These challenges are interconnected and directly influence the health of our region. When workers cannot find attainable housing, employers struggle to fill positions. When families cannot access reliable child care, engagement in the workforce declines. When health care access is limited, it affects both quality of life and business stability. And when workforce development systems are not aligned with employer needs, businesses have difficulty sustaining, and scaling, their operations.
One statement shared during our meetings stood out and served as an important reminder about the power of local engagement. A lobbyist noted that if lawmakers hear directly from just four or five constituents in their district about a specific issue, it can often prompt them to reconsider, or even change their vote on proposed policy. That underscores why it’s important to show up. Sometimes, a handful of engaged community members speaking directly with their elected officials can shape the outcome of key decisions.
Events like Southwest Colorado Days at the Capitol reinforce the importance of regional collaboration. Each of our communities brings unique strengths and perspectives, but we share many of the same challenges. By working together, we amplify our collective voice and increase the likelihood that policymakers understand the needs of rural economies like ours.
Advocacy is not a one-time event. It is an ongoing effort that requires relationship building through communication, collaboration, and consistent engagement with decision-makers. The Durango Chamber remains committed to representing the interests of our local business community and ensuring that the priorities identified by our members continue to be heard.
We are already looking ahead to next year’s Southwest Colorado Days at the Capitol and building on the relationships and momentum created during this trip.
If you want to stay informed, follow our monthly advocacy updates at durangobusiness.org or reach out to our team directly.
Our region plays a key role in our state’s economy. And when we show up collectively, our shared voice drives positive outcomes for Southwest Colorado.
Jeff Dupont is CEO of Durango Chamber of Commerce.