CSSGA President’s Blog – February 2024
Somehow January went by in a blink and we are already off and running in to February. 2024 is starting off at a fast pace and CSSGA is taking it in stride. As Todd outlined in his January blog, CSSGA has implemented some exciting and engaging changes that are already bearing fruit.
The change to our Governmental Affairs Legislative meeting (from a Breakfast to a Luncheon) proved to be beneficial as the January 24 meeting showed a significant increase in participation with great dialogue with our guest speakers. Over 35 attendees were present to discuss a range of issues with Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer and listen to Brian Lewandowski with Leeds School of Business (CU Boulder) give an update on the economic outlook for the State of Colorado. Our next Legislative Luncheon is February 28 at 11:45 where our Guests will be Senator Chris Hansen and the CSSGA Education & Outreach Committee. Please consider joining us.
In the discussion with Senator Kirkmeyer it was evident the Legislative Subcommittee is going to have another interesting year. They have resumed their weekly calls during the legislative session on Tuesdays at 8:00 am to review bills that are pertinent to our industry and help give Totsy Rees of Ress Consulting direction on how to lobby for the Association.
CSSGA Staff, Totsy Rees and new GA Committee Chair, Chris Oestreich also held an Education Day at the Capitol to present to legislators on the benefits and necessity of aggregate mining in Colorado. Three state senators, one state representative and other capitol staff visited with CSSGA to address the needs of the industry at the legislative level. The Governmental Affairs Committee is continuing to work toward creating more educational materials for legislators and other decision-makers around the state. If you are interested in joining the Governmental Affairs committee contact Emma Dolan.
January 29th and 30th some of us enjoyed a great networking event and a sunny day of skiing in Breckenridge, CO. It was another successful turnout and a memorable event. Thank you to all who attended and especially our Sponsors: Burnco, Loveland Ready Mix, Monarch Mountain Minerals and Aggregates, and L.G. Everist, Inc.
Another upcoming event to add to your calendar is the Advocacy Outreach Networking Event on March 27 from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Grant-Humphreys Mansion in Denver. All Colorado elected officials have been invited and we will be hosting a night of networking to discuss and educate legislators on issues facing our industry. This is a free event open to all members and you can RSVP here.
As you can see it has been a busy couple of months with plenty more coming up on the calendar to help move our industry forward. I encourage each member, whether producer or associate, to participate in or send a colleague to these great events. Participation and engagement does not require volunteering for a committee or serving in any official capacity. A larger in-person attendance communicates volumes more than what any individual person or smaller group can say. Plus you may have fun!