Commissioners back exploring county revitalization authorities and joint sessions with city to boost economic development

Commissioners and board members praised Robert Choi’s financial presentation and focused on tools to boost economic development, including county revitalization authorities (CRAs) and intergovernmental coordination. One commissioner said, "The revitalization authority is a very important project I think this county needs to do," and several said they would push for a joint work session with the city and other partners.

Choi noted Colorado recently passed a law allowing counties to create CRAs (county revitalization authorities) as a vehicle for tax-increment financing and infrastructure funding in unincorporated areas. "In fact, the county attorney and I are reviewing, CRAs and their benefits for the county, and we will have that on the agenda for the board to consider in the next couple of weeks," Choi said. He said staff also plan meetings with Publiplex and other local councils to discuss site-selection opportunities.

Board members emphasized combining targeted investments with faster permitting, incentive packages and workforce development. One commissioner urged broad outreach, suggesting a large work session or town-hall forum to align the county, city and other jurisdictions on a shared economic-development strategy. Choi and staff committed to report back with options and an agenda placement for CRA discussion.