In conjunction with an effort by the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. to woo California businesses to Colorado (just in time for Valentines’ Day, no less), Governor Ritter declared today “Colorado Loves California Day.” Apparently the campaign includes valentines placed in the Los Angeles Times, as well as people dressed as Cupid handing out information on Colorado in Los Angeles.
Apparently not everyone in Colorado is thrilled with the Governor’s Friday dedication. Admittedly, it’s a bit over the top. But I think it’s a good idea, just a bit misguided in the approach. Many California-based companies already have strong presences here in Boulder County, and recruiting more of these companies to either relocate or open satellite offices here only helps boost Colorado’s bottom line by adding tax revenue, skilled workers, and jobs. It also can’t hurt the state from a tourism perspective - even if the campaign doesn’t recruit businesses, it might cause more people to consider visiting Colorado to see what all the buzz is about. (On the other hand, grown men in wings with bows and arrows walking around LA promoting Colorado might make people strongly consider Idaho for their next ski vacation . . . Or maybe they won‘t be noticed - it IS LA, after all).
I truly hope that as part of Colorado’s campaign to attract California businesses (or any other state’s, for that matter), that the powers-that-be are considering and implementing serious incentives, not just cheesy PR campaigns. Colorado has so much more to offer than just the lower costs of living commonly touted in such campaigns: amazing educational and research institutes, a rich environment for start-ups, intellectually curious and open-minded people, key geographical location for national companies, not to mention the quality of life.
If you’re relocating from California to Colorado, take the “Californication” jabs with a grain of salt. I’ll let you in on a little secret: many of us here actually (shh - don’t tell!) came from California - myself included.
If your company is attracted to Colorado's pheromones, and decides to give us a shot at love, give me a call - I can help you find your new Colorado lovenest.
Happy (Early) Valentines' Day!
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