On Friday, January 9, 2026, the Douglas County Business Alliance (DCBA) brought together business leaders, local stakeholders, and State legislators for its annual Legislative Kick-Off at Sky Ridge Medical Center. This event marks the official start of engagement as the 2026 Colorado legislative session gets underway and highlights the priorities of Douglas County’s business community.
A Strong Legislative Panel
The event featured a bipartisan panel of lawmakers who represent Douglas County at the State Capitol (Left to Right):
• Senator Mark Baisley
• Representative Anthony Hartsook
• Senator Lisa Frizell
• Representative Max Brooks
• Representative Bob Marshall
• Senator John Carson
Panelists offered insight into emerging policy discussions, infrastructure needs, economic competitiveness, and the legislative priorities likely to shape business environments for local employers and investors this year.
Highlights of the Discussion
Lawmakers and attendees discussed several key topics, including:
• Transportation and infrastructure investment
• Workforce development and education
• Regulatory streamlining and permitting reform
• Creating a competitive climate for business attraction and growth
Panel members emphasized the value of ongoing dialogue between local leaders and legislators to ensure Douglas County’s interests are well-represented in the 2026 legislative session.
Focus on Red Tape Reduction
A central theme of both the Kick-Off and broader county economic strategy is cutting unnecessary “red tape”—the barriers and delays that slow business permitting, approvals, and market entry. In late 2025, Douglas County leaders announced the creation of a Red Tape Reduction Commission to work collaboratively with industry experts and local partners to identify and remove obstacles that impede business growth and speed to market. This initiative reflects a shared goal of making Douglas County not just the most competitive place to do business in Colorado, but a leader nationally in efficiency and responsiveness.
A Word from Ellie Reynolds
Ellie Reynolds, President & CEO of DCEDC and 2026 Chair of DCBA, reinforced the importance of this work:
“As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, our commitment to reducing unnecessary red tape will help make Douglas County a destination of choice for companies looking to grow and innovate. By removing barriers and accelerating timelines, we strengthen our economic foundation and ensure that new opportunities and high-quality jobs come to our community”.
Her leadership highlights the role of streamlined processes in creating a more agile, competitive regional economy.
What’s Next for Douglas County.
The DCBA Legislative Kick-Off serves as a catalyst for productive engagement between the business community and policymakers. DCEDC is proud to partner with DCBA and local legislators to champion:
• Policy solutions that support existing businesses and attract new ones
• Infrastructure investments that enhance connectivity and quality of life
• Efficient government processes that align with the needs of job creators
Together, these efforts will help position Douglas County for responsible growth and long-term success in 2026 and beyond.
