What does it take to keep utility service reliable as Colorado Springs grows? Colorado Springs Utilities CEO Travas Deal joins Dirk Hobbs on The Business Signal for a wide-ranging conversation about the decisions behind customer bills and the infrastructure the region will need in the years ahead.

The discussion covers electric rates and fuel costs, the proposed 2027 budget, and how Utilities weighs reliability, affordability and growth when planning major investments. Hobbs and Deal also examine the proposed Williams Creek Generating Station, the demands of large power users, and the question of who pays when new capacity is needed.

Water is part of the equation, too. The episode turns to Colorado River uncertainty, local storage, conservation and the work required to protect the region’s long-term supply. For households and employers alike, this conversation offers a closer look at the choices shaping essential services in Southern Colorado.

Questions or Want to Understand Your Bill Better? 719.448.4800

Learn How CSU Serves El Paso County: https://csu.org

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Building Business Through Relationships with Brandon Eldridge

Executive Director of the Small Business Development Center - Pikes Peak Region Brandon Eldridge joins host Dirk Hobbs on The Business Signal for a thoughtful conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership and the importance of building meaningful professional relationships.

Eldridge discusses lessons individuals and teams who aer aspiring to open a business can learn:

• The value of connecting people with opportunities
• The importance of trust, service and consistent engagement
• How the SBDC plays a role in vetting the business concept before spending time and resources
• Connecting with area subject matter experts who can lend insights into how to prepare for the rigors of running a business.

The conversation also explores the realities of professional growth, developing an authentic leadership style and remaining open to the relationships and experiences that can shape a business career.

It is an engaging discussion for entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals who understand that long-term success is rarely achieved alone—it is built through people, purpose and community.

LEARN MORE: https://sbdc.colorado.gov/pikespeak

Colorado Springs is at a consequential point in its economic development and Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer says the region must approach it with confidence, facts and intentional growth. In this episode of The Business Signal, the president and CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC joins host Dirk Hobbs to examine a number of active conversation and efforts in the community:

First out of the gate: The proposed Project Taurus data center, the safeguards surrounding it and what the City Council decision could signal to companies and site selectors considering the region. (9/17/2026)

The conversation widens to Colorado Springs’ competitive strengths on a national level: A highly educated workforce, a substantial veteran population, quality-of-life assets and a nationally significant aerospace and defense ecosystem. Kleymeyer explains how primary employers generate broader opportunity across construction, retail, healthcare, education and professional services - and why advanced manufacturing, space, national defense and support infrastructure remain central to the region’s future.

She also discusses retaining existing employers, reducing regulatory burdens, developing local talent, and investing ahead of growth.

Her closing challenge is direct: business leaders cannot remain on the sidelines. They must enter the arena, engage elected officials and help shape a region that grows intelligently while preserving what makes Southern Colorado exceptional.

https://coloradospringschamberedc.com