Our Policy Committee continues to meet regularly with local and state leaders to ensure the business community is part of important policy conversations. We recently welcomed Mayor Hidalgo-Fahring to our February 6 meeting, and we look forward to hosting Council Member Matthew Popkin in March for an update on the Urban Renewal Authority, along with new Council Member Crystal Prieto at an upcoming session. These conversations help keep business perspectives at the table as decisions are being shaped.
At the state level, the Chamber expanded its advocacy work this year by contracting with Jordan Sanchez of Sanchez Policy Works as our lobbyist and policy advocate. As announced in our recent press release, Jordan is working daily at the State Capitol during the legislative session, representing Longmont businesses and collaborating with partners such as C3 (Denver Chamber), the Colorado Chamber, and the Northwest Chamber Alliance. This coordinated approach reflects direct feedback from members who asked for stronger advocacy and gives Longmont a more consistent, active voice in policy discussions than we have had in the past. In addition, Jordan reviews the City of Longmont’s weekly City Council agendas so the Chamber can identify emerging issues early and engage proactively.
During each Policy Committee meeting, Assistant City Manager Sandi Seader joins us to help identify where the City and Chamber can align on policy positions at the state level and to review City Council actions. This creates an opportunity for Chamber members to provide input before decisions are finalized and allows the Chamber to advocate when local actions impact the business community.
The Policy Committee has already reviewed a range of legislation this session, including bills focused on workforce policy, housing, consumer protection, taxes, energy affordability, and economic development incentives. We will also review broader issues such as the proposed ballot initiative related to Pinnacol Assurance and its potential move toward privatization. Members who want to see the full legislative tracker, follow the specific bills under review, or better understand where the Chamber is engaging can visit LongmontChamber.org/advocacy for updates and resources.
Throughout our listening tour in 2025 and ongoing conversations, businesses continue to raise concerns about increased regulation and rising costs, and they want the Chamber to be actively engaged at both the local and state levels. The Chamber has made investments to do just that and I invite you to check in on our work and to attend or consider joining the Public Policy Committee. Meetings are 8a-9:30am on the first Friday of the month. In the March meeting, we will hear from the Urban Renewal Authority and bills related to renewable energy.
– Scott Cook, CEO Longmont Chamber