Bottom Up Reports Going to Denver

Economic development directors across Colorado are sending their county economic assessments to the state today, April 15. The essential ingredient of the Governor’s “Bottom Up” statewide survey consisted of each county’s top five economic goals and how they would be attained.

Lisa Nolder, executive director for PCDI, Prowers County Development Incorporated, reviewed with the county commissioners, the findings of four town meetings and assorted online surveys taken over the past month. Those statewide findings will be compiled by the Governor’s office and his assessment and recommendations will be issued May 15.

The top five economic goals for the county showed a high degree of uniformity from the majority of responses: Development of an electric transmission system for renewable and non-renewable energy resources in Prowers County and the Region; Facilitate efforts for business retention, expansion and attraction to create quality jobs within Prowers County; Retain and advocate Lamar Community College, K-12 education in order to provide a skilled workforce and educational opportunities. Retain and advocate county-wide health facilities in order to provide quality health care for county residents; Advocate retention of water in the Lower Arkansas Valley for continued agriculture production. With respect to personal property rights, assist in developing infrastructure to facilitate alternative uses of water and continue regional collaboration efforts for community and economic development and business retention, expansion and attraction for all of Southeast Colorado. The final goal also includes advocating the repurpose of Ft. Lyon Prison scheduled to be closed and support the asset-based economy and cultural heritage tourism. The report also considered strategies on how to accomplish the goals, primary partners for accomplishments, available and needed resources, barriers to economic growth and an action plan. A timeline of up to five years was given to start the goals on some level.