The Adams County Board of County Commissioners held a study session on September 29, 2025, featuring a presentation by Dr. Richard Wobekind from the University of Colorado's Business Research Division. His insights into the current economic landscape provided a crucial backdrop for local decision-making, particularly as the county navigates a period of slowed economic growth.

Dr. Wobekind highlighted that Colorado has experienced significant prosperity over the years, but recent months have shown a marked slowdown in economic activity. He emphasized that while the state economy is not in a recession, growth has decelerated, with employment increases occurring at a diminishing rate. This trend is reflected in the state's employment growth rate, which has dropped to 0.6%, placing Colorado in the lower half of states nationally.

A key focus of the discussion was the relationship between employment, personal income, and retail sales tax—critical components for local government funding. Dr. Wobekind noted that while personal income continues to grow, the rate of consumption is slowing, raising concerns about the financial stability of families in the region. He pointed out that many households struggle to manage unexpected expenses, which could lead to increased economic vulnerability.

The presentation also addressed the importance of education in driving economic mobility. Dr. Wobekind underscored that higher education correlates strongly with better income outcomes, although he acknowledged the rising costs of education and the burden of student debt. He encouraged local leaders to consider how educational institutions can better align training programs with the needs of the job market, particularly in trades and technical fields.

In addition to employment and education, the discussion touched on inflation rates and housing costs. Dr. Wobekind noted that Colorado's inflation rate has recently fallen below the national average, largely due to a slowdown in housing price appreciation. This shift could provide some relief for residents facing high living costs.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners were urged to consider these economic indicators when planning for the future. The insights shared by Dr. Wobekind will help guide local policies aimed at fostering economic resilience and supporting community needs in Adams County. The board's next steps will involve addressing the challenges highlighted in the session, ensuring that the county remains responsive to the evolving economic landscape.