By High Country Advocate Staff
Concerns are mounting over the Southern Colorado Economic Development District (SCEDD), the regional agency charged with fostering economic growth across 13 counties in southern Colorado. While SCEDD was originally intended to help coordinate federal grants and regional planning, recent events have raised questions about its effectiveness and the value it provides to member counties.
In particular, Pueblo County officials have publicly criticized the organization, pointing to a lack of accountability and transparency in its operations. Fremont County, meanwhile, has not paid its dues for the past two years and now owes approximately $50,828, a figure that underscores the financial strain counties face when weighing the costs and benefits of continued membership.
Neighboring counties have also raised concerns during recent budget sessions. Chaffee County pays about $6,100 annually, Park County pays $2,619, and Custer County pays $1,663.80. Several commissioners noted that while the dues themselves are not exorbitant, the question is whether SCEDD’s services justify even these modest expenses.
“The issue isn’t the dollar amount,” one commissioner said. “It’s whether those dollars bring back any tangible benefit for our citizens. Right now, it doesn’t look like they do.”
The problems have come to a head as SCEDD seeks a dues increase for 2025. While the proposed rise is small, multiple counties have said the real problem lies in the district’s effectiveness. Some commissioners openly questioned whether membership dollars might be better invested locally in roads, housing, or workforce programs.
As counties across southern Colorado head into fall budget sessions, discussions about whether to remain in SCEDD are expected to intensify. With local governments facing tighter revenues and growing demands for services, the future of the regional agency — once seen as a vital link to federal economic development funds — appears increasingly uncertain.
Editor’s Note: This article is based on public discussions at county commission meetings and recent reporting. Some details may evolve as counties finalize budget decisions this fall.
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