The City of Pueblo Announces End of PEDCO Contract

PUEBLO - The City of Pueblo provided official notification on Sept. 29 to the Pueblo Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO), terminating its contract for economic development services as of December 31, 2025. This notice was given in accordance with the contract's 90-day notice provision. Formal transition steps are underway to ensure PEDCO completes all contractual obligations connected to the City's half-cent sales and use tax before year-end.

Mayor Heather Graham stated, "The termination is consistent with City Council's recent request to send out a Request for Qualifications seeking new economic development partners. PEDCO was founded over 40 years ago, and it's time for the City to seek other committed partners dedicated to growing our City and helping us become the economic center of Southern Colorado."

The shift in strategy followed City Council's passage in a 5-2 vote of Resolution No. 16120, directing the City to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) open to all organizations, including PEDCO, for economic development services.

During the Sept. 8 City Council meeting, Councilor Regina Maestri expressed support for the change, stating, "We should be diligent in making sure we have, in every angle, we have the best representation possible." Her remarks underscore the majority view that exploring new approaches may help Pueblo secure stronger outcomes.

At the same meeting, in contrast, Councilor Dennis Flores voiced concerns about the termination, remarking, "PEDCO is a membership organization. So, the majority of their budget is paid by membership dues, not taxpayer dollars. Most of the people on the board at PEDCO, they want to remain in the position they're at. They don't want someone else to come in and think that they understand Pueblo and understand the needs of Pueblo when this was their idea." Flores, along with Joe Latino, voted against the resolution, highlighting that PEDCO's efforts remain valued by some.

Pueblo City Council President Mark Aliff and Councilors Regina Maestri, Sarah Martinez, Brett Boston, and Roger Gomez voted in favor of the measure, marking Pueblo's new direction.

The City of Pueblo welcomes all interested organizations to participate in the upcoming RFQ process to help shape the future of Pueblo's economic development.

"As this transition unfolds, the City remains grateful for PEDCO's many years of service and encourages their continued involvement in Pueblo's general economic development. The City is hopeful this move will cause an evolution of its economic strategy-one that encompasses a broader focus than just primary jobs and shows a commitment to the growth of Pueblo overall," said Mayor Graham.