Q: Why did you start your nonprofit Center for Economic Policy?
A: When I came to the legislature eight years ago, the first thing I realized was how little information was available to lawmakers on very detailed, complex issues — from water, environment, taxes, budgets, oil and gas production and educational systems through how governmental agencies operate.
What I saw more and more, on both sides of the aisle, was a tremendous amount of voting by sound bite. The more intense campaigns became, the more legislators would stop to think about what that vote might look like in their campaign, instead of what the policy would actually do down the road. I started the Center for Economic Policy to take these complex issues to policymakers and citizens in the form of educational roundtables with experts from all sides of an issue.
The state’s constitution is easily amended by the citizens, so we should do more to educate the public so they understand all sides of an issue.
My goal is to bring full discussions/debates and experts to the table on issues important to the economic vitality of our state.
Q: Is there any organization like it in the state or nationally?
A: While there are organizations that do policy, I have not found an organization that has provided roundtables for educating policymakers and citizens on economic development and business issues.
Q: What legislative issues do you feel should be at the center of discussions with citizens right now?
A: Oil and gas issues. Transportation issues. Renewable energy. Higher education. We want to bring people from all backgrounds, regardless of political affiliation, to hash out approaches, like trying to figure out how to fund transportation.
Citizens would be truly amazed if they saw and experienced firsthand what we really have a choice of paying for in our budget. Transportation does not even come out of the general fund, but most citizens don’t realize that.
I have so many people in the communities who are saying, “I want more information on what this proposed legislation really does.” Another roundtable might talk about the best way to save jobs.
Q: How will you pick the roundtable topics?
A: The meetings won’t be about a specific bill but larger topics. Anything that impacts business and the economy. I watch for the hot-button issues in the legislature. Now it seems to be renewable energy, transportation, and oil and gas.
I’m also taking suggestions. People can reach me at centerforeconomicpolicy@gmail . Or they can write to the Center at 1410 Grant St., Suite C-209, Denver, CO 80203. We’ll have a website up soon.
Q: How difficult has it been to start your nonprofit in this economy?
A: It certainly has made it a little more challenging to get funding.
Once people understand the model and the incredible usefulness to our communities and state, they should embrace the concept and help to move it forward.
I’m hoping that most of the funding eventually comes through foundations. This is a nonpartisan organization where all players and issues around economic development are welcome at the table.
Edited for length and clarity by Denver Post staff writer Miles Moffeit
