Thanks to each of you who were able to join us last Wednesday morning to hear from former U. S. Interior Secretary and U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar. The Secretary served as a co-chair of Coloradans for Responsible Reform (CFRR) - the issue committee that was focused on defeating the proposed statewide ballot measures targeting energy development in Colorado prior to their withdrawal in August. He was very candid in his assessment of the challenges and opportunities before our state, and country, as it pertains to energy development.
On a national scale, Secretary Salazar noted his support for the Keystone XL Pipeline and the importance of energy independence for our country. When asked about the proposed rules from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding clean air and carbon dioxide emissions, he stated his expectation was the Obama Administration would proceed with its efforts and would complete the rule process. That said, he believed there was a seat at the table for industry as there was an acknowledgement that putting in place a plan that could be rolled back by a future Congress, or Administration, because the engagement was not appropriate, would lead the proponents to seek a hard fought, but middle ground.
The Secretary also noted the Governor's Oil and Gas Task Force, which is tasked with seeking clarity around energy development and the role of local government in rules and regulations, would be gathering for its first formal meeting later that morning. He was cautiously optimistic that the group would find some common ground, but also noted there are individuals and organizations that would prefer to put an end to any kind of extraction in Colorado, and a statewide ballot strategy to meet their mission remained likely.
Public comment was accepted at the Oil and Gas Task Force meeting, and I attended to share our support for the work the members would be undertaking, and to reiterate the economic driver oil and gas development is in our state. Click here for a copy of my remarks.
Should you have questions about the work of the Task Force, or any other issue, please do not hesitate to contact me attamra@coloradoconcern.com.
Below is information on upcoming Colorado Concern events.
Click herefor more information or to register to attend events.
Monday, October 6: Gubernatorial and U.S. Senatorial Candidate Debate
VIP Reception 11:00 to 11:30 a.m., Debate and Luncheon 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Seawell Grand Ballroom at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, 1400 Curtis Street (Denver Metro Chamber is hosting and partnering with Colorado Concern and other business organizations). Register for this event at
Join us for our October 28 Membership Networking Lunch co-hosted by Ted Brown and Larry Mizel from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Click herefor details and to register. ___________
