Jul 16, 2025, 7:27 PM
Jul 16, 2025, 7:27 PM

Mayors face distrust amid economic downturn in Colorado

Highlights
  • The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce reported a slowing economy in Colorado, with job growth hovering at 0.1%.
  • Unemployment and foreclosures have risen year over year, with sales tax declining in Northglenn and concerns over affordable housing.
  • Amid economic struggles, tensions between Denver and Aurora’s mayors could complicate local efforts to address these pressing challenges.
Story

In July 2025, the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce hosted its State of the Cities event, highlighting various economic challenges confronted by Colorado municipalities, including Denver and Aurora. The event followed a report from the Chamber and the Boulder Leeds School of Business revealing concerning trends in the state’s economy. The report indicated a rise in unemployment and foreclosures, coupled with declines in consumer confidence and home sales year over year. Nevertheless, job numbers saw a modest increase of 0.1%, indicating a mixed economic scenario. The mayors from Denver, Aurora, and Northglenn acknowledged the negative economic shift while ensuring business owners that they were actively pursuing solutions. Northglenn Mayor Meredith Leighty noted that sales tax revenue in her city had decreased, signaling financial challenges. As an immediate response to the affordable housing crisis and rising costs of materials, land, and labor, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston emphasized initiatives aimed at encouraging the construction of middle-income housing by offering tax breaks. Notably, Northglenn recently inaugurated a new townhome complex and a senior living facility to provide more housing options. Amid these efforts, the future collaboration appeared hindered by strained relations between the mayors of Denver and Aurora. Mayor Johnston claimed there was no distrust between them and insisted on maintaining an open line of communication. In opposition, Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman articulated a sense of distrust, further complicating their collaboration during an economically challenging time. This tension reflects deeper issues at play, as local leaders must unite to navigate economic obstacles effectively. The State of the Cities event attracted over 400 business and community leaders, reinforcing the importance of unity and collaboration, not just between cities but also across the local government and business sectors. As Colorado balances shining achievements in GDP, employment, income growth, and home price appreciation with emerging economic difficulties, its leaders are called to action, emphasizing the need for transparent dialogue and strategic partnerships to foster resilience in local economies.

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