The South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce recently hosted the Colorado gubernatorial candidates at a pair of forums held for the Chamber's leadership.

Democratic candidate Bill Ritter spoke on Tuesday, September 26 and Republican candidate Congressman Bob Beauprez appeared on Monday, October 2.

Ritter spoke on a variety of topics including economic development, wind farms, transportation, water and unprecedented growth.

The main emphasis of his presentation centered on education reform and how it relates to economic growth.

"Colorado is a state with great promise, but we have to have a plan," Ritter said. "With education, we have a lot to do.We have to educate a workforce that is technically qualified. We have to prepare kids to enter the 21rst century."

The Democratic candidate also addressed the future of water use in Colorado. He emphasized re-using, recycling, storage and shared use of water.

"We have to approach water conservation as an ethic," Ritter said.

Ritter gave the audience a handout titled, Economic Development: Growing Jobs and a Stronger Economy for Colorado.

Governor Bill Owens appeared at the Chamber to introduce Congressman Bob Beauprez and to show his support for the Republican candidate.

Congressman Beauprez emphasized his reputation for hard work and accountability.

He spoke about his Colorado Accountability Pledge, which is a five-point plan that specifies what the administration will accomplish and an invitation to hold him accountable. He gave the leadership a handout of the pledge, including a plan of action.

"It isn't always easy out there," he said. "I've had practical hands-on experience and had some success. I've gone through difficult, trying times and learned to do what you've got to do to make it work."

Immigration reform is an issue he highlighted to the Chamber members.

"I happen to think illegal immigration is a problem," Beauprez said. "The laws have to be enforced. I have an encrypted, encoded ID card just to get into my local YMCA. People have to have an encrypted ID to prove they are citizens of the state and the United States. We have to be able to manage a labor force."

Congressman Beauprez also touched on his opponent's performance as district attorney as well as on issues such as education reform, health care reform, stem cell research and economic development.

The forums were sponsored by Brownstein Hyatt & Farber, P.C.

"We at Brownstein Hyatt & Farber feel it is important to be a part of the political process," Nicole Ament, attorney said. "We support forums where business leaders can learn about the candidates and find out where they stand on business issues."

South Metro Denver Chamber president John Brackney felt the Chamber leaders would benefit from an intimate discussion with each of the candidates.

"Both men gave insights into their lives and policies," Brackney said. "Now the business leaders can go back to their companies, their neighborhoods, their service groups, and describe with confidence the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates."

The South Metro Economic Development Group hosted both of the events.

"Government has the ability to shape the business climate," Bart Sayyah, director of the group, said. "As such it's important for business leaders to understand the political temperament of our candidates and be clear on what their tendencies are."

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