Congressman Salazar announces $ 61,000 in funding for economic development in Montrose, Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Ouray, and San Miguel counties

WASHINGTON, DC – Today Congressman John Salazar announced that $61,000 in federal funding has been allocated for the Region 10 League for Economic Assistance and Planning based in Montrose. This funding supports the development and implementation of a comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS) in the region served by the Region 10 League for Economic Assistance and Planning which comprises Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray, and San Miguel counties. The CEDS process is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic development roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economy. The goal of the funding is to establish an economic development planning framework, process and strategy that supports private capital investment and job creation in the region.

Congressman Salazar offered the following comment on the funding:

“This funding will help Region 10 continue its efforts to foster a business friendly environment in Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray, and San Miguel counties. Hopefully this funding will help develop and cultivate private capital investment and job creation in the region. I’m glad to support funding for programs like these, programs that grow our economy and put Coloradoans to work.”

Paul Gray, Executive Director of the Region 10 League for Economic Assistance and Planning offered the following comment on the funding:

“As a designated economic development district for six counties in western Colorado, Region 10 relies on this grant to assist us with developing and maintaining an overall economic development strategy for the entire region.  In this difficult economy, discussions among our elected officials and citizens are vital to identify and document proven strategies and new strategies with promise.  

The grant also will assist Region 10 with the expenses of our Business Loan Fund, which loans money at favorable interest rates to new and existing small businesses, the Enterprise Center, which currently assists nineteen small businesses and non-profits by leasing offices to them at very low rates, and the Enterprise Zone Business Tax Credit program, which authorizes state income tax credits for capital investment, new hires, job training, and health coverage.  

These programs and services could not function without the EDA Planning Partnership Grant, so on behalf of the Region 10 Board of Directors, allow me to express our sincere appreciation.”
 
For information on this funding contact Paul Gray, Executive Director of the Region 10 League for Economic Assistance and Planning at (970) 249-2436, Ext. 18.