Executive Director’s Blog
Hello members of the Colorado Stone, Sand & Gravel association. This time of year remains very busy at CSSGA, primarily due to an extremely active legislation session at the state capitol. The session ends next week on May 8. In my opinion, that will be a good thing! Here are a few highlights of the session and other information:
- Recent and upcoming activities.
- Regarding the legislative session, I want to again thanks our Governmental Affairs chairman Chris Oestreich for his leadership and commitment to the industry over the course of 2024. Beginning with him leading the Industry Education Day at the Capitol, offering information on the importance of mining, to his testimony of several key bills in the House and the Senate, his contributions are much appreciated. Thank you, Chris.
- Obviously, our lobbyist, Totsy Rees and Legislative Sub-committee chair Alex Schatz, have been key to the session. Thanks to them for their committment as well.
- We still meet weekly to discuss bills and proposed legislation, and our last meeting for the year is Next Tuesday, May 7. Members can weigh in on helping us decide on direction and strategies to help our success. Join us yet this year or make plans to attend in 2025. I encourage all members to participate and be part of this important process.
- We recently held our final Legislative Luncheon in downtown Denver, as the legislative session is coming to an end. These have been a huge success this year, since switching from a breakfast format in previous years. I look forward to these events next year, during the 2025 Legislative Session.
- Additionally, we held an extremely successful Governmental Affairs focused Networking Event at the Grant-Humphreys Mansion on Denver on March 27. In addition to the networking, we presented long time board members and past President, Ben Frei with an industry appreciation award. Ben has driven our Legislative Sub-Committee for many years, in addition to his contributions to the board discussions. Thank you, Ben, for your lifelong leadership!
- Then, on May 1, our sister association, CRMCA hosted the “Concrete Day at the Capital”. This was held in conjunction with the partners at the Concrete Pipe and the Concrete Pavements Associations. A huge turnout of CRMCA, as well as CSSGA members were on hand to volunteer with the many positions necessary to pull this event off. We estimate 500 meals were served to elected officials, staff, security, and others who work at the capitol. Thanks to Emma for again pulling off the magic of making this huge event happen!
- Key Legislation. One of the key bills we are supporting involves the permitting and program oversight aspect of the Dredge & Fill activities for the state of Colorado. We are supporting SB-127, which was introduced by Senator Barbara Kirkmeyer. The State of Colorado will be expanding the Waters of the State, as the Waters of the US (WOTUS) has changed on a National level. Another bill, HB-1379 has been introduced as well, with different approaches to statewide water issues. With only days to go, we remain active with testimony and interaction on both bills.
- West Slope Networking Event. This will be held in Grand Junction on June 18th, the evening before the June Board Meeting. Make plans to participate in this always great event with our dedicated members in Western Colorado.
- Summer Conference. Lastly, we are building toward our Summer Conference and Outing planned for July 18 and 19 at the Hotal Colorado in Glenwood Springs. This is a great time to discuss business related issues with suppliers, while holding a lively Networking Event for all members.
Thanks to all. Please reach out to either Emma, or me if you have questions or comments. Thank you.
Todd R. Ohlheiser, CAE
CSSGA
todd@coloradocaa.org