Larimer County proclaims May 11-17 as Economic Development Week to strengthen community partnerships

Economic Development Week was officially recognized in Larimer County during a recent administrative meeting, with a proclamation declaring May 11 through May 17 as a time to celebrate collaboration and partnerships in economic growth. Janine Ledingham, Associate Director for Economic and Workforce Development, emphasized the importance of teamwork among businesses, government, and community partners to strengthen the regional economy.

Highlighting the significance of local businesses, Ledingham introduced representatives from Anheuser Busch and FiberLock Industries, who shared their success stories stemming from collaborative efforts with Larimer County and the City of Fort Collins. Tim Sites, General Manager of Anheuser Busch, detailed a $15 million project aimed at upgrading their brewery facility to enhance efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. This initiative not only supports environmental sustainability but also retains approximately 475 high-paying jobs in the area.

Tyler Gonzalez from the City of Fort Collins echoed this sentiment, noting that the brewery's expansion aligns with community climate goals and fosters economic opportunity. He praised the partnership as a model of effective economic development, showcasing how collaboration can lead to significant advancements for both businesses and the community.

Jody Stager from FiberLock Industries also spoke about the challenges of workforce recruitment and how partnerships with Larimer County have helped address these issues. By implementing structured internship programs and engaging with diverse talent pools, FiberLock has improved its hiring processes and reduced turnover.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the proclamation, reinforcing the vital role of economic development in fostering a resilient and inclusive economy. The collaborative efforts highlighted during the meeting serve as a testament to the power of partnership in driving sustainable growth in Larimer County.