March 2016 Executive Director’s Blog

Hello CSSGA members.  I hope everyone’s year is off to a great start. The weather has been mild, but the “March, in like a lamb, out like a lion” may appear in the coming weeks!  Regarding current efforts, we remain focused on networking, governmental affairs, and communication efforts.  Highlights from these initiatives are explained in detail below.

The CSSGA membership convenes once a quarter for social networking events. On March 15 CSSGA will hold our first networking event of 2016. I am pleased to say this year’s event will take place at the Main Residence in the Colorado Governor’s Mansion. We expect this to be one of the most successful networking events with over 65 registrants, including several members of the state legislature. These events allow our members to not only network with other industry leaders, but also provide a platform to discuss pending legislation and industry needs.  Register today!

CSSGA’s Legislative Subcommittee continues to meet at the state Capitol every Monday morning to discuss pending legislation and industry’s position of legislation. The 2016 Legislative Session started off slow, but has picked up momentum recently.  Subcommittee members have been vigilant in observing transportation funding issues this session,

including the hospital providers fee and bonding. While overall there is a bipartisan understanding of the need for a dedicated funding source, there has been a partisan divide in where the funds should originate. CSSGA is working closely with our CCIC partners to form an even larger coalition to generate transportation funding on the state level. This initiative will be the discussion topic at our Legislative Breakfast on March 16 in downtown Denver, and anyone is welcome to attend.  RSVP to Annelise if you plan to attend.

As many of you are aware, we are moving forward with CSSGA’s updated presence on social media, which will be managed by Annelise Shepherd.  After a thorough selection process, we have chosen Calyx Social Media as our contractor to assist her in our efforts.  The first initiative is to migrate from our previous joint accounts with the CRMCA to our own private handles. The association will utilize Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to participate in political campaigns and messaging, updates on land use, environmental, and other regulatory issues, educate the general public on our industry, and engage members in ongoing conversations. As the association moves forward with these newer communication platforms we will continue to keep you updated through our website, eNews, and local publications in order to reach the broadest audience possible.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Annelise or I with any questions regarding CSSGA or how to get involved.  Thank you.

Todd R. Ohlheiser

Executive Director

Colorado Stone, Sand & Gravel Association