The inaugural Rural Resiliency Mixer, hosted by the Clear Creek Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC), saw a gathering of local Clear Creek and Gilpin County business owners, officials, and community members at the Club Hotel in Idaho Springs on February 8, 2024.

President Lindsay Valdez took the stage to address attendees, highlighting the organization’s commitment to fostering economic growth and stability in Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties. Valdez announced that the CCEDC currently has $1.6 million available for lending, emphasizing the importance of supporting small businesses in the region.

The event provided a platform for networking and collaboration among local entrepreneurs, with Jonah and Lana Hearne, owners of The Club Hotel, sharing their journey of revitalizing the historic building. Valdez expressed gratitude for their contribution to the event.

Guests were treated to insights from Greg Totten, an economist from the State of Colorado Demography Office, who shed light on key demographic trends relevant to economic development. Totten’s presentation sparked discussions on workforce diversification and community engagement.

He shared several demographics concerning population and job growth in the State. “In some ways, demography is a simple job, because people only do three things: They’re born, they die, and they move,” he quipped.

During the lecture-style event, attendees were given agendas, presenter bios, and index cards with which to submit any questions after the presentation.

Kelly Flenniken, board chair of CCEDC, prompted the audience to think about the diversification of the workforce and the purpose of economic development. Flenniken encouraged attendees to consider the role of development in building resilient communities.

Valdez thanked the Henderson Mine for sponsoring the event and said they would like the event to recur annually.

Another useful data point included the fact that Molybdenum mining contributes 26% to the GDP of Clear Creek and that employment has recovered in Gilpin County since the pandemic. Flenniken pointed out that the CCEDC has contracted with Colorado Mesa University to do an annual economic newsletter every March.

The event also saw participation from Gilpin County Manager Ray Rears, who highlighted the success of local initiatives and introduced Ryan Englund to discuss opportunities for further growth.

Englund spoke highly of the Rollinsville business district which is thriving and becoming quite popular. Despite its popularity, Englund pointed out that there is not much local organizing.

“Twenty-four people showed up [at a meeting]; they’re changing the community themselves. They’re anxious to work together, but it’s all their own money. They’re starting to realize they need to put together an organization to make Rollinville a true destination,” Englund said.

He continued to mention some creative ideas, like adding a stop sign, roundabout, or traffic light on Highway 119 at Rollinsville. He also brought up the possibilities of sidewalks to increase foot traffic.

His remarks underscored the importance of strategic planning in driving economic vitality.

Following the presentations, attendees were invited to continue networking at a nearby restaurant, further fostering connections and collaboration.

The Clear Creek Economic Development Corporation is a non-profit organization established in 1984 to provide economic development services to Clear Creek County and its municipalities. In addition, the CCEDC administers a Business Loan Fund Program in Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties (Region 3).

Their mission: To catalyze a diverse and thriving business community that expands and stabilizes the workforce and tax base, and supports partnerships with passionate placemakers.

At the Rural Resiliency Mixer, the CCEDC reiterated its commitment to community engagement, inviting individuals from all backgrounds to contribute to economic development efforts. It marked a significant step in fostering collaboration and driving economic growth in Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties, underscoring the importance of community-led initiatives in shaping the region’s future.

For those looking to connect with the CCEDC or learn more about their initiatives, the organization can be reached at 303-710-9218 or visited at 1443 Colorado Boulevard, Suite B, Idaho Springs, CO 80452.