These numbers were daunting, but Coloradans pulled together to turn the tide. Gov. Roy Romer, Mayor Federico Peña, and countless civic and business leaders rolled up their sleeves to create change. There was a bold vision for what was possible, and change happened. Our economy kicked into high gear and for nearly three decades we thrived.
A recent CNBC study ranked Colorado 23rd for quality of life, 39th for cost of doing business, 32nd for business friendliness, and 46th for cost of living. Metrics showing our state’s poor rankings in these categories were unimaginable just a decade ago. If those data points aren’t enough of a wake-up call to our elected and community leaders, perhaps the departure and closure of small businesses that make the fabric of our community so special will be that call.
Today we have a choice. We can continue down the road of a draconian regulatory and legislative environment or learn from our mistakes and take action to reverse course. I’m an optimist and believe if we come together, we can make meaningful changes that will once again make Colorado the best place to work, live and play.
Walter Isenberg is CEO and Co-Founder of Sage Hospitality Group. Sage which celebrated 40 years in business this year, is headquartered in downtown Denver, employs more than 2,000 people in Colorado, and more than 6,000 nationally.
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Originally Published: August 23, 2024 at 8:43 a.m.
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Publish date : 2024-08-23 04:14:00
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