- Durango Prosperity Manager Mike French shared with Durango City Council at a study session on a potential increase to the city’s minimum wage that a business community survey (195 responses) showed 89% of businesses already pay above minimum wage, and 42% would cut staff or hours if required to raise wages.
- Heather Otter from Region 9 Economic Development District noted Colorado’s minimum wage is $14.81/hour, but a livable wage in the area is over $24/hour.
- Dr. Nathan Peach of Fort Lewis College warned higher wages could reduce jobs for inexperienced workers and raise consumer prices.
- Jeff Dupont, Chief Executive Officer of the Durango Chamber of Commerce, argued it’s a bad time to raise wages due to labor shortages, tight margins, and regional competition (e.g., Farmington, NM). He emphasized market-driven solutions, concerns about nonprofits and student jobs, and impacts like restaurant closures seen in Denver.
- Business Improvement District Executive Director Tim Walsworth stressed using data to make decisions and listening to businesses.
- Durango City Council plans to hold another study session on the topic in future months.
