h_bus_2017a_2017-01-26t13:31:38z0 Hearing Summary

Date: 01/26/2017

Location: LSB A

01:32 PM -- Presentation by Stephanie Copeland, Office of Economic Development and International Trade



Stephanie Copeland, the new Executive Director of the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), introduced herself to the committee. Director Copeland spoke about her personal history and her goals for the operations of OEDIT. She spoke about her philosophy concerning the role of government in economic development, economic development in rural areas of the state, and the importance of broadband access.



Director Copeland spoke about OEDIT's legislative focuses for the legislation session, including the extension of the repeal date for the Economic Development Commission (EDC) and additional funding for outdoor recreational industries.



Director Copeland responded to questions from the committee on topics including OEDIT's efforts to promote tourism; film industry incentives; Colorado's business environment, including the state's workforce, university system, and tax incentives; the legislature's role in improving access to broadband; understanding the effectiveness of various workforce development programs previously passed by the legislature; rural economic development; availability of low-wage workers; international trade; public-private partnerships with Colorado's public higher education institutions and incubator sites at these institutions; transportation infrastructure and access to affordable housing; and how she would like to work with the legislature.



Director Copeland spoke about her priorities for the next 30 days. These include working with the Office of Information Technology (OIT) to find models for expanding broadband access in rural areas, the potential to work with universities to help solve various business problems, and visiting rural communities across the state.



Director Copeland continued to respond to questions from the committee concerning communications from OEDIT that may be helpful for committee members.



Director Copeland made closing remarks.



02:12 PM



The committee adjourned.