Colorado Springs Business Fight

There is a brewing battle in Colorado Springs, the outcome of which could have many long term ramifications. According to various sources, there is a big decision to be made by the end of the year over whether to merge the Colorado Springs Chamber and the Colorado Springs Economic Development Corporation. While at first glance, this seems to be a decision dealing with efficiency and saving money by having one group instead of two, but underneath there is a power play going on that could affect the US Senate race. The timing of this discussion is due to the recent departure of Chamber Head Will Temby, who has yet to be permanently replaced.

A few business leaders from the EDC are pushing for the EDC head Mike Kazmierski to take over the new combined organization. Not sure if they are aware, but Kazmierski has been pushing Mark Udall behind the scenes to the business community, even setting up events and inviting Udall to be the speaker, while completely ignoring the Republican members of the delegation. Don't believe me, just check out the list of events that Kazmierski's EDC has hosted the past couple of years. You won't find Wayne Allard, Marilyn Musgrave or Tom Tancredo on the list, but you will find Mark Udall. Kazmierski also pushed Bill Ritter last election, though of late has publicly expressed some disappointment in that outcome.

My sources have told me that he also routinely belittles and bad mouths the presence of religious groups like Focus on the Family and Compassion International. He has been heard to express that he wishes they were not here. Of course his mentor Rocky Scott was the one who recruited them when no one else was jumping to move to the then foreclosure capital of the country. Seems like they have become a convenient whipping boy for Kazmierski to explain why he is not bringing in as many new companies as Rocky Scott did.
If Kazmierksi takes over a combined group, look for staff departures from the chamber and a dramatically different direction, one that will not likely match the community.

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