Douglas County’s Red Tape Reduction Task Force officially began work to improve speed to market and cut unnecessary hurdles. (April 2, 2026)
If you keep up on state business news, you’ve seen the headlines. Major companies like Palantir are moving out of Colorado, and statewide, there is a sense that it’s getting harder to do business in this state.
Not in Douglas County, where a new Red Tape Reduction Task Force is focused on increasing speed to market.
Douglas County, in partnership with the Douglas County Economic Development Corporation, convened the first meeting of the Red Tape Reduction Task Force on April 2, marking a significant step toward positioning the County as one of the fastest, most business-ready communities in the nation.
The Task Force was established following a December 2025 resolution by the Board of Douglas County Commissioners calling for the cutting of red tape and reduction of regulatory burden for commercial and industrial development.
The initiative reflects a proactive response to growing concerns that regulatory complexity and lengthy development timelines are impacting Colorado’s economic competitiveness.
“Douglas County is committed to setting a new standard,” said Douglas County Commissioner Kevin Van Winkle. “We can maintain high expectations for safety and quality while also delivering a faster, more predictable path for businesses to invest and grow.”
“Our goal for business permitting in Douglas County is to be not only the most competitive place to do business in Colorado, but the leader in the nation,” said Douglas County EDC CEO Ellie Reynolds.
The Red Tape Reduction Task Force will evaluate the County’s existing regulatory framework, identify inefficiencies, and recommend practical, solution-oriented strategies to streamline processes. The group will focus on eliminating duplication, improving clarity, and reducing delays that can increase costs and stall projects.
Comprised of leaders from development, construction, utilities, public safety, and economic development, the Task Force brings together a diverse range of expertise.
To learn more about the Red Tape Reduction Task Force please visit: Douglas County’s Red Tape Reduction Task Force – Douglas County