February 2017 Executive Director’s Blog

Hello CSSGA members and mining professionals.  February already, and we have many things underway at CSSGA.  Here are a few of the highlights:

Just a reminder about the new Association Management System (AMS).  This system becomes the entire interface between you and CSSGA, so we are focusing much attention to it.  Hopefully everyone has been able to get registered in the system and finding it easy to use.  Overall, we are hearing positive feedback on its usage.  Hopefully everyone expe

riences this same thing and it helps us create member value at minimized costs.  We are planning to end correspondence via the older processes on February 28, so make sure you get registered on the new system. Use these instructions for further assistance registering on the system. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact staff.

Also, the important Legislative session is underway.  We continue to meet Monday mornings in the Capitol basement to discuss pending legislation and members are welcome.  As you know, we have been in support of a Referred Measure from Legislature that would create much needed infrastructure funding for Colorado.  Our business partners of CCA, CSSGA, ACPA and CAPA are all aligned in this effort.  This year, with the help of key consultants we have expanded the coalition to include other industries.  With this in mind the coalition of FixItCO has been formed which now includes stakeholders from all four corners of Colorado and includes groups from truckers to environmentalists.  Learn more by following @TeamFixItCO on Twitter and look for the website to be launched this month!

Also, our bi-annual MSHA Regulatory Roundtable is Thursday, February 9^th!. The meeting will take place from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the CSSGA offices.  The purpose of this roundtable discussion is to clearly understand MSHA’s initiatives, priorities and areas of emphasis while creating open dialogue with industry.  This meeting will also emphasize the recently released Workplace Exams regulation and help operators understand the upcoming changes.  Plan to attend as we strive to have a solid and transparent working relationship with MSHA. RSVP to Annelise if you plan to attend.

In addition, I encourage you to register for this year’s Spring Networking Event at the Governor’s Mansion.

Lastly, I encourage you to review our upcoming events, as there are many seminars, safety webinars, and other events available.  Your participation makes these committee initiatives a success.  Please contact any of us if there is anything we can do or provide information on.  Thanks again for your support and I look forward to a great 2017!

Todd R. Ohlheiser

Executive Director