Rep. Jeff Hurd Meets with La Plata County Business Leaders

Congressman discusses affordability, economic growth and Iran war impact

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:03pm

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A cinematic painting of a lone political figure standing in a dimly lit government office, the space bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conceptually representing the congressman's engagement with the community.In a private meeting, a Colorado congressman listens intently to the concerns of local business leaders, seeking to align federal policies with the unique needs of the Southwest.Durango Today

U.S. Rep. Jeff Hurd met with a group of 17 small business owners and economic leaders in Durango, Colorado to discuss their top concerns, including workforce housing, business regulation, and the unpredictable nature of federal policies - particularly the impact of the ongoing war with Iran on energy prices and the broader economy.

Why it matters

As the representative for Colorado's 3rd Congressional District, Hurd's meeting with local business leaders provides insight into the key issues impacting the regional economy, which could help inform his policy decisions in Washington. The discussion around the effects of the Iran war on energy costs and business stability is especially timely given the potential long-term economic ramifications of the conflict.

The details

During the meeting, business leaders expressed concerns over affordability, workforce housing, burdensome regulations, and the unpredictability of federal policies - particularly the Trump administration's use of tariffs, which were later ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Hurd said he heard loud and clear the need for a more stable, predictable regulatory environment to allow businesses to plan and manage risk effectively. The group also discussed the need for more vocational training to address workforce shortages in trades like plumbing and electrical work. Regarding the war with Iran, Hurd said he supports the military action but acknowledged the spike in global energy prices is 'not conducive to sustainable business growth'.

  • The meeting took place on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • The U.S. and Israel launched the war against Iran about a month prior to the meeting.

The players

Rep. Jeff Hurd

The U.S. Representative for Colorado's 3rd Congressional District, who met with the local business leaders.

Kim Oyler

Chief operating officer and advocacy lead for the Durango Chamber of Commerce.

Jeff Dupont

CEO of the Durango Chamber of Commerce and co-owner of Studio B, a psychology clinic in Durango.

Dave Woodruff

Mayor pro-tem of Durango.

Liz Cartier

Dean of the Katz School of Business at Fort Lewis College.

Sarah Tober

Executive director of the La Plata Economic Alliance.

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What they’re saying

“Businesses can address risk well, but the unpredictability and uncertainty that comes from quickly changing policies is devastating. So ensuring that we have a regulatory environment that's predictable, that's stable, that's lasting, is something that I heard loud and clear.”

— Rep. Jeff Hurd, U.S. Representative

“Bad energy policy is a hidden tax on every single Coloradan, every single American, and so my commitment is to doing everything we can to ensure long-term price stability and affordable, safe, reliable energy.”

— Rep. Jeff Hurd, U.S. Representative

What’s next

As the war in Iran continues, Hurd said Congress must have increased oversight to ensure spending is tied to strategic objectives that lawmakers agree on.

The takeaway

This meeting highlights the complex challenges facing small businesses in Hurd's district, from workforce shortages and housing affordability to the ripple effects of federal policies and international conflicts. Hurd's commitment to a 'pro-business, pro-jobs, pro-growth mindset' will be tested as he navigates these issues on behalf of his constituents.