SEPTEMBER 2 - 9, 2026
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS & COMMUNITY NEWS SINCE 1994
Making every drop of water count
L
VOLUME 33, ISSUE 35
THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM
Owners of 2 True Value stores change name to Bob’s Hometown Hardware—See Page 2
Brandon Leuallen The Business Times
imited water supplies, rising irrigation costs and the urban heat island effect are creating overlapping challenges for Grand Junction and the surrounding region as the population continues to grow from in-migration. For some residents, drought pricing and limited irrigation supplies this year have meant paying considerably more to keep lawns, trees and shrubs watered. Others have allowed landscaping to decline or paid to convert traditional landscapes to lower-water alternatives, including xeriscaping and zero-scaping. Conserving water and/or avoiding higher water bills, however, does not necessarily have to mean eliminating vegetation altogether. While there is no silver bullet, conservation practices gaining popularity in other dry climates south of Colorado could, where appropriate, help address all three challenges in the region’s high-desert climate. Over the past two decades, some Southwestern cities, including Tucson, Ariz., have increasingly used water capture and reuse to hydrate soils as they face many of the same, and often more severe, challenges as Grand Junction. Grand Junction has more recently legalized and incentivized some of these practices, but awareness and widespread adoption have yet to follow. See story Page 5
Name change for hardware store Store co-owners Mark and Jeannette Neal stand next to a sign with the new logo for Bob’s Hometown Hardware, formerly Orchard Mesa True Value, at 2686 U.S. Highway 50. The name change was revealed in August and reflects a break from the True Value retail brand while becoming truly independent and honoring Jeannette Neal’s father, Bob Frederick, who opened the True Value hardware store there in 1983. The Neals also own the former Grand Junction True Value, 1838 N. 12th St., where they did the same rebrand and installed the Bob’s Hometown Hardware exterior sign Aug. 21. Photo by Tim Harty.
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 67 The Business Times 609 North Ave., Suite 5 Grand Junction, CO 81501
The Business Times
Page 2
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
Hardware store is ‘Bob’s’ now
2 longtime True Value stores go ‘truly independent,’ rebrand as Bob’s Hometown Hardware Tim Harty
W
The Business Times
hen national hardware-store retailer True Value filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy and was acquired by Fort Wayne, Indiana-based Do It Best in the fall of 2024, it opened the door for a Grand Junction couple to honor the man who helped bring four True Value stores to the Grand Valley. Mark and Jeannette Neal, co-owners of the Orchard Mesa True Value, 2686 U.S. Highway 50, and Grand Junction True Value, 1838 N. 12th St., ended those stores’ association with True Value and renamed them Bob’s Hometown Hardware in August. That’s Bob as in Bob Frederick, Jeannette’s father, who along with other family members opened the Orchard Mesa True Value in 1983 and the 12th Street True Value in 1991. Jeannette said Bob had to step away from owning and operating his True Value stores in 2019 because of poor health, so she and Mark moved back to the Grand Valley to take over the Orchard Mesa and 12th Street stores. They didn’t know then that an opportunity would arise to carry on Bob Frederick’s legacy in a more direct way: putting his name on those two stores.
“He’s worked his entire life for these stores, so our plan when we came here was to carry on his legacy,” Jeannette said. “And then, True Value filed for bankruptcy a couple years ago, and when that happened, things were kind of up in the air. We weren’t sure which way it was going to go, so Mark and I, at that point, kind of made plans to just become truly independent.” All individual True Value stores are independently owned, but the association with True Value comes with purchasing requirements and some operational constraints. That’s why it’s important for the Neals to make the “truly independent” distinction. Their two stores are no longer beholden to any direction from True Value. “We can purchase from whoever we want,” Jeannette said, adding the goal as a truly local store is to look out for the customer. “That’s really what we want to do is be able to buy from whoever we can buy from with the best price, so we can pass that on to the customers.” The buying exception, of course, is they no longer can carry True Value-branded items, and that’s OK with the Neals. They’ve lined up other vendors to get equivalent alternatives in quality and price. “We have comparable items for anything that we can’t sell through True Value,” she said. Minus the items that True Value previously provided, customers will see a whole lot of what they’ve always seen on shelves and the sales floor of the stores. All of the employees were retained, too, and Jeannette said customers can expect the same personable, informed customer service that has been a staple from the stores’ personnel. “As an independent hardware store, that’s all we have going for us against the bigbox stores is our customer service,” she said. “We really try to drive that home with our employees. We’ve got to have good customer service, because we don’t have the best prices compared to Lowe’s and Home Depot. You know, we can’t match their prices usually, so it is our customer service that drives it home for us, for sure.” And he’s not an employee, but another friendly face remains at the Orchard Mesa store, where frequent customers have come to know Murphy, the store cat. He’s sticking around, too, “hasn’t been evicted,” Jeannette was happy to report. “Murphy’s pretty popular,” she added.
More About Bob’s Hometown Hardware
ABOVE — Bob’s Hometown Hardware employee Leedah Turner is wearing one of the new red vests that reflect the store’s name change. To the right on the checkout counter in the 12th Street store is one of the posters displayed around the store to inform customers about the name change from True Value. BELOW — Bob’s Hometown Hardware employee Jesse McRoberts gets ready to operate the key machine. Bob’s Hometown Hardware will continue to provide all of the services that the store provided as True Value. Photos by Tim Harty.
A few new things of note With the Orchard Mesa and 12th Street Grand Junction True Value hardware stores becoming Bob’s Hometown Hardware stores, the name change itself is the biggest change. That got announced to Grand Junction at the 12th Street location on Aug. 21 when the new sign was installed. Another significant change is coming to the rewards program, which will be called “Bob’s Bucks.” Bob’s Hometown Hardware co-owner Jeannette Neal said the rebranded stores will have more freedom than they had when they offered True Value Rewards. “It’s a rewards program that we have complete control over,” she said of Bob’s Bucks. “So, you know, we can come up with triple-point Tuesdays. We can do whatever we want with this rewards program.” Bob’s Hometown Hardware also will have a new website. During an Aug. 25 interview, Neal said it wasn’t operational yet, but it will be ready soon. Once it’s running, customers will be able to make online orders and pay online, then pick up the items at the store or do curbside pickup. Weren’t there 4 True Value stores? Indeed, there are two other True Value hardware stores – Peachtree True Value, 2963 North Ave. in Grand Junction; and Fruita True Value, 1690 U.S. Highway 6&50 – that remain True Value stores. Those stores are owned by Cathy Frederick, wife of Bob Frederick, who once owned all four True Value stores in the Grand Valley before relinquishing them in 2019 because of health issues. Other family connections Jeannette Neal is the daughter of Bob Frederick and stepdaughter of Cathy Frederick. Jeannette said her brother, Rick Frederick, and his wife, Julie Frederick, were in business with Bob for many years, and they retired from that and opened Cahnyr’s Creations, 2650 North Ave., Suite 119. “They do engraving and printing and all kinds of stuff, so they’re the ones that are helping us get our brand out there,” Jeannette said “He’s doing all of our basket redesigns, and he’s doing uniforms for us, and so that’s just kind of another extension of the family for that. … I just wanted to give a shout out to them.” Jeannette added her daughter Hannah designed the store logo for Bob’s Hometown Hardware.
September 2 - 9, 2026
The Business Times
page 3
Page 4
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
Can graywater and rainwater be part of GJ’s solution to water issues?
water while requiring less supplemental Continued from Page 1 irrigation once established. Some of these Many of those practices were pioneered can even be edible. more than two decades ago in Tucson by Lancaster said rain gardens can also Brad Lancaster, his brother and other private receive more than one water source where citizens who were determined to improve regulations allow. their community for future generations. “What I would push further, if they’re Brad Lancaster later wrote a book called not already doing this, is they should also Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and allow the collection of both waters in the Beyond. His early neighborhood projects same rain garden,” Lancaster said, “so you helped demonstrate the benefits. get a bigger bang for the buck.” The Business Times reached out to Rain could supply the basin during Lancaster to discuss his experience in Tucson storms, while appropriately distributed and other cities as well as what lessons those graywater could help support vegetation efforts could offer Grand Junction and other during dry periods. Lancaster also pointed to communities in the arid West. air-conditioning condensate as another water Capturing rain instead of letting it run away source that can potentially be directed toward Rainwater and stormwater harvesting landscaping, especially between rain events. capture precipitation and runoff before it Grand Junction does not receive large leaves a property or neighborhood. An illustration shows how rainwater can be directed through a series of interconnected, amounts of precipitation, which can make Grand Junction now encourages vegetated basins, allowing runoff to soak into the soil and support trees and other plants rainwater harvesting seem insignificant. ButA vegetat rainwater capture through its water-efficiency rather than quickly leaving the landscape. Reproduced with permission from Rainwater even infrequent storms can produce substantialpaved su rebate program. The city offers a $50 rebate Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond by Brad Lancaster, HarvestingRainwater.com. and othe volumes of water over a large surface. Oneproduced for qualifying rain barrels, with rebates inch of rain falling on a 2,000-square-foot roofLancaste available for up to two barrels per residential represents about 1,250 gallons of water before collection losses. Even a half-inch storm would property through a fourplex. Most qualifying Colorado residences can collect precipitation in produce more than 600 gallons. Continue two rain barrels with a combined storage capacity of 110 gallons for outdoor use. Lancaster also collects rain off of sheds and any other building on a property as well as In Tu Lancaster said rain barrels can introduce people to the concept, but communities in dry street cur climates should look beyond small storage containers as they can do far more for less by what falls directly on the ground to direct it where it is most useful. Lancaster said recent changes to Colorado law created additional rainwater-collectionrunoff in simply using a shovel. opportunities for certain qualifying properties served by qualifying exempt wells and othersallowing Rain gardens and basins placed an adequate distance from structures temporarily hold not on municipal water. Those properties can collect substantially more rainwater in tanks,gutters. L runoff and allow it to infiltrate, essentially using the soil for storage while restoring capacity potentially storing thousands of gallons for use. Tucson c for the next storm. Multiple basins throughout the property can capture water from different What about water running down the street? idea faced portions of a roof, driveway or other drainage areas, collectively soaking hundreds or even Lancaster said communities can go further by capturing stormwater already flowinglegal as lo thousands of gallons into the soil during a storm. with it. The vegetation planted around those basins is also important. Drought-tolerant trees, across streets and other paved surfaces. See GRAYWATER on page 5 Tucs shrubs and other plants known to perform well locally can make better use of the captured accommo More said areas roadside more veg “The dramatic, A ba surroundi another s “Tha the same springs an Lanc rain gard infiltrate remain habitat fo In its Storm supports spaces, in stormwat Us Gray blackwate from sou bathroom that has n waste. It c microorg Colo governme graywate Jan. 1, 20 statewide prohibits Gran
September 2 - 9, 2026
Graywater
The Business Times
A vegetated basin between a parking lot and sidewalk captures runoff from surrounding paved surfaces and allows the water to infiltrate into the soil, where it can support trees and other vegetation. Blue arrows illustrate the movement of water into the basin. Reproduced with permission from Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond by Brad Lancaster, HarvestingRainwater.com.
Continued from Page 4 In Tucson, that includes openings in street curbs and parking lots that direct runoff into vegetated basins rather than allowing it to flow directly into storm gutters. Lancaster helped construct an early Tucson curb-cut project in 2003, when the idea faced resistance because it was not yet legal as locals and officials were unfamiliar with it. Tucson eventually changed its rules to accommodate the practice. More than two decades later, Lancaster said areas where runoff was redirected into roadside basins developed substantially more vegetation. “The before and after is very dramatic,” he said. A basin can infiltrate water into the surrounding soil and regain capacity for another storm. “That helps recharge our aquifers at the same time, and the flows of our creeks, springs and rivers,” Lancaster said. Lancaster also said properly designed rain gardens and basins allow water to infiltrate quickly enough that it does not remain stagnant or provide breeding habitat for mosquitoes. In 2019 Tucson began funding its Storm to Shade program, which supports green infrastructure in public spaces, including rain gardens and other stormwater-capture projects. Using water more than once Graywater is different from blackwater, or sewage. It is wastewater from sources such as showers, bathtubs, bathroom sinks and washing machines that has not come into contact with toilet waste. It can still contain soaps, detergents, microorganisms and other contaminants. Colorado previously required local governments to affirmatively authorize graywater use. A state law that took effect Jan. 1, 2026, instead authorized graywater statewide unless a local government prohibits all or certain categories of its use. Grand Junction adopted its graywater
program in 2022, while graywater became legal in unincorporated Mesa County under the statewide change Jan. 1, 2026. The city and county allow approved systems for subsurface landscape irrigation, while more advanced systems can treat graywater for flushing toilets and urinals. The City of Grand Junction estimates a household of four could save about 20,000 gallons annually through graywater reuse. Under normal Grand Junction water rates, reducing potable consumption by 20,000 gallons annually could represent roughly $90 to $140 in reduced water charges, depending on which consumption tiers those gallons would otherwise fall into. Savings could be greater when drought pricing applies. But adoption has been limited. Cost is one potential reason. Grand Junction estimates subsurface landscapeirrigation systems can cost approximately $200 to $2,000, while more complicated indoor systems can range from $2,500 to $20,000 depending on the system and whether it is incorporated into new construction or retrofitted into an existing building. Lancaster also said complexity itself can become an obstacle. He cautioned against unnecessarily complicated systems that store untreated graywater in tanks before pumping it elsewhere. Instead, he advocates directing appropriate graywater into the soil relatively quickly. “You dramatically reduce the cost, you reduce the complexity, it works better,” Lancaster said. The Business Times has reached out to the City of Grand Junction and will examine the city’s program and local adoption further in a follow-up article. Regulations can make a difference Lancaster said other dry communities have faced similar challenges with awareness and adoption, and Tucson’s experience showed that simply making graywater legal did not initially lead residents to use permitted systems. See GRAYWATER on page 10
page 5
Page 6
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
Realty ONE Group agents and staff members at an Aug. 25 staff meeting.
‘A good problem to have’
Rapidly growing Realty ONE Group moves to roomier office space on Main Street Tim Harty
The Business Times
Broker/owner Tyler Harris started Realty ONE Group Western Slope in May 2024 with a staff of three people – himself, Landon Law and Cynthea Hurst – setting up shop at 441 Colorado Ave. in downtown Grand Junction. In July and August this year, a little more than two years later, they moved a few blocks away to 734 Main St. This time they brought 37 other staffers with them. Realty One Group now occupies half of the second floor of that four-story, commercial building, giving it about 4,000 square feet. Harris said the agency previously had about 2,500 square feet combined from two locations: its Colorado Avenue location and some space it rented in the Lowell School, 310 N. Seventh St. The need for the move was obvious, and Harris called it “a good problem to have.” “We ran out of space,” he said. “Back when we were on Colorado Avenue, I had to rent a separate space over at the Lowell School building for a classroom. … We
grew so much that we outgrew both spaces. “So, I started looking earlier this year for a space that could accommodate our needs under one roof, and that’s how I found this place here at 734 Main.” And the new space has a nice-sized corner room serving as its classroom, although when the agency had a staff meeting on Aug. 25, several chairs were set up outside the glass-walled room for overflow seating. The new office space addressed an immediate need and also stands to address future needs. “I think it’s going to allow us to really grow, to be as big as we want to be here in this marketplace in Mesa County,” Harris said. “And I don’t know what that looks like number-wise, but I know that we have the capacity to probably double in size if we choose to do so. I don’t know that that’s something that we will do, but we’re certainly looking to continue to expand, to grow and make our presence felt in the marketplace here.” See Realty ONE Group on Page 8
More About Realty ONE Group Gotta pay your people Without going into detail about what is different about the commission structure at Realty ONE Group, agency broker/owner Ryan Harris said it was necessary to retool commissions in order to be competitive as a new agency in what he says is “a tough time in real estate.” “For me personally,” he said, “I saw that affordability was going to be a problem, which means that there was going to be pressure on commissions, which meant I had to do something different than where I was before. And I was at a local company for years and years here. I was at Bray. And I just knew for me running my business, I had to have a different model for compensation, because the consumers are gonna press us to get paid less.”
Still a need for real-estate agents Harris said consumers are finding a lot of the value they’re looking for on different websites where Realtors provide the data, such as Zillow, Realtor.com and Homes.com. But there’s more the home buyer needs to know. “Consumers think that they’re getting all the information they need from an awesome third party, but we own that data. We create that data, and we still have a lot of value to give,” he said. “And it’s our duty to tell the public what we do and what our service entails. “It’s difficult to stay relevant in this industry more so than ever, and you really have to be innovative. You have to have a good personal brand, deliver great personal service and educate people. ... We’re consultants for people to sell their greatest asset.”
ve’
September 2 - 9, 2026
The Business Times
page 7
Page 8
RealtyONE Group
Realty ONE Group Western Slope owner/broker Tyler Harris stands in the conference room of the agency’s new location at 734 Main St. in downtown Grand Junction. Photo by Tim Harty.
The Business Times Continued from Page 6 Realty ONE Group’s ultimate goal is for that marketplace to extend beyond the Grand Valley. “We want to be one of the staple choices for real estate brokerages, not only in Grand Junction, but across the entire Western Slope,” he said. Harris said it already has a “big presence” in Garfield County, and the agency will put an office in Rifle, likely in early 2027, because “a lot of our agents that work in Garfield County are based in Rifle.” But there’s more to be had, as Harris said, “We service Montrose County, Delta County, Garfield County. We do a little bit of work up in the Rangely area. We have one of our agents that lives in Meeker, so we’ll be able to work up in Craig. We’re gonna try to have our presence from all the way up at the Wyoming border down potentially all the way to Ouray.” Harris said there are several reasons for the agency’s growth, but one clearly stands out: the commission structure. “We have a model that is unlike any other here in the valley,” he said. “It allows real estate agents to keep more of their money.”
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026 Beyond that, he said Realty ONE Group appeals to agents, because it uses innovative technology; some AI applications allow agents to work much more efficiently; and the agency has “really fresh branding.” Harris added, “And I like to think that me being a top producer in the marketplace makes me one of the better managing brokers in the market. I think that helps us grow as well.” Realty ONE Group had an impressive initial growth spurt that set the tone, too. “We quickly grew to 15 people within a matter of, it felt like weeks, and then from there we’ve been steadily growing ever since,” he said. Realty ONE Group is a newcomer to the Grand Valley market, but it has lured many veteran Realtors to its ranks, whom Harris classifies as “some of the best professionals in town.” So, when residential or commercial customers are looking for a real-estate agency, he thinks Realty ONE Group belongs in the conversation. “I know we’re the new kids on the block, but we have a lot to offer,” Harris said, “and I would love to talk with anybody that’s curious about what we have to offer.”
Mesa County to provide planning support for town of De Beque
Mesa County will provide planning assistance to the Town of De Beque under a new, one-year agreement. The Mesa County Commission approved the agreement Aug. 11 at its administrative public hearing, and it took effect Aug. 18. According to a news release from the county, the agreement gives De Beque access to county planning staff when additional support is needed. The town will pay Mesa County $30,000 to cover staff time and routine expenses. The partnership provides another way for the town to address planning applications and questions while keeping decisions at the local level. At De Beque’s request, Mesa County may help: • Review development applications, site plans, subdivisions and permit requests. • Answer planning questions and interpret town land-use rules. • Prepare reports and present information at public meetings. De Beque will continue to make all final decisions. Mesa County staff will provide information and recommendations, but will not take over the town’s planning authority. The agreement does not include legal or engineering services. F
News, views and advice you can use Subscribe today to the journal that means business in the Grand Valley.
(970) 424-5133
www.thebusinesstimes.com
September 2 - 9, 2026
ppeals to some AI ently; and
ing a top he better us grow
l growth
of, it felt y growing
nd Valley its ranks, essionals omers are NE Group
we have talk with ”
The Business Times
page 9
Page 10
Graywater
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
Turning water into shade Continued from Page 5 The potential benefits extend He said Arizona previously beyond water conservation. allowed graywater reuse, but permitting Grand Junction is also confronting requirements were expensive and an urban heat island effect created cumbersome enough that legal when pavement, buildings and other participation remained extremely low. hard surfaces absorb solar energy Meanwhile, Lancaster said and become substantially hotter than University of Arizona researchers vegetated and shaded areas. found that more than 200,000 people Previous measurements with Grand across the state were already harvesting Junction City Forester Rob Davis found graywater without permits and found no shaded grass at about 76 degrees, significant health risk when commonAn illustration over a Tucson property shows how household graywater can be directed from compared with 97 degrees in direct sun. sense guidelines were followed. plumbing fixtures into the landscape to irrigate trees and other vegetation rather than being used Arizona subsequently simplified only once before leaving the property. Reproduced with permission from Rainwater Harvesting Asphalt measured about 148 degrees in the sun and 90 degrees beneath trees. its regulatory approach for smaller for Drylands and Beyond by Brad Lancaster, HarvestingRainwater.com. The city’s heat map also shows some residential systems. Lancaster said of the strongest heat-island effects around qualifying systems can now operate without individual inspections or fees as long as residents follow the state’s 13 common- commercial areas with large buildings, expansive parking lots and relatively few trees. Lancaster said water harvesting combined with proper vegetation combats heat in sense guidelines. Lancaster said problems that have happened have generally occurred when people several ways. Trees shade pavement and buildings, while moisture in soil and vegetation failed to follow the established guidelines for properly designing and operating the provides evaporative cooling. Vegetated rain gardens can also interrupt expanses of pavement and other surfaces Lancaster described as a “heat battery.” systems. “You’re reducing that heat island effect multiple ways,” Lancaster said. Those systems can provide another benefit during heavy storms by slowing runoff and potentially reducing localized flooding. New projects, however, are not immediately self-sustaining. Lancaster said newly planted rain gardens and water-harvesting basins generally require supplemental irrigation while trees, shrubs and other droughttolerant plants become established. As root systems develop, supplemental watering can be reduced and plants can rely more heavily on rainwater and stormwater captured by the basin. He said he has many demonstrations on his YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/c/HarvestingRainwater. Building a water-harvesting culture and industry Lancaster said one of Tucson’s successes has been moving beyond simply making water harvesting legal. The city is actively encouraging and teaching the practices while creating opportunities for local businesses specializing in the work. Lancaster said participants receiving certain rebates are required to complete training. That education helps residents understand what a properly designed system should look like while creating demand for contractors who know how to install and maintain them. More than two decades after Lancaster’s first Tucson curb-cut project, water harvesting there has moved from an unusual neighborhood experiment into municipal programs, private businesses and public infrastructure. Lancaster said Tucson also contracts with local businesses to construct and maintain some of that infrastructure, helping create a water-harvesting industry that largely did not exist when he began his work. He said local plumbing and landscaping companies have also developed expertise in graywater reuse and water-harvesting infrastructure as demand for the practices has grown. “When I started this work … there was not a single water harvesting company in Tucson,” Lancaster said. “Now there’s many.”
de
September 2 - 9, 2026
extend
nfronting t created nd other r energy tter than
ith Grand vis found degrees, irect sun. egrees in h trees. ows some cts around ees. ts heat in egetation panses of
at island said. e another ing runoff ooding. are not
nted rain basins irrigation droughtd. As root watering ely more ormwater has many channel, ainwater. ure and
Tucson’s nd simply The city ching the nities for e work. receiving complete residents designed creating w how to
es after t project, ved from ment into usinesses
contracts ruct and e, helping hat largely rk. ndscaping expertise arvesting practices
there was mpany in e’s many.”
The Business Times
page 11
Page 12
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
The Business Times
Page 13
Page 14
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
Mesa County commercial real estate builds momentum in Q2 Mesa County’s commercial real estate market continued to demonstrate strength through the second quarter of 2026, according to Bray & Co. Real Estate analysis of the Q2 numbers. Year-to-date closed-sales volume reached $109.6 million, a 15 percent increase from the $94.9 million recorded during the same period in 2025, Bray & Co. said. At the same time, transaction counts remained relatively consistent. A total of 87 commercial sales closed through June 2026, compared to 88 during the first half of 2025. Together, these figures point to one of the market’s most notable trends, according to Bray. While the number of transactions has remained stable, highervalue properties are contributing to greater overall sales volume. Commercial sales volume continues to rise Bray said looking back over the past three years provides a clearer picture of how the market has evolved: 2024 – 100 transactions totaling $91.8 million. 2025 – 88 transactions totaling $94.9 million. 2026 – 87 transactions totaling $109.6 million Transaction counts have gradually declined, but sales volume has increased each year. Many of the properties changing hands in 2026 have been newly constructed buildings, remodeled properties or multiunit retail centers, helping drive the increase in total volume. The market also currently includes 202 active commercial properties for sale and 196 active lease opportunities, providing options for businesses, investors, developers and tenants throughout Mesa County. Notable second-quarter transactions Several significant retail, office and land transactions took place during the second quarter. The newly constructed McDonald’s in the Horizon Drive corridor sold for approximately $2.4 million on April 27. The J&M Aquatics Retail Center at 2851 and 2851 1/2 North Ave. sold for $1.6 million on May 20. One of the quarter’s largest office transactions was the sale of the Fidelity Mortgage building at 700 Belford Avenue. The 19,870-square-foot building sold for
$3.85 million on June 3. Land sales were also an important part of the quarter’s activity. Approximately 68.2 acres of vacant development land at 789 23 Road sold for $5.35 million on June 2, equivalent to approximately $1.80 per square foot. Another notable transaction involved 1.1 acres at 1211 Wellington Avenue, located just south of City Market near Patterson Road and 12th Street. The property sold for $3.7 million on June 11 and is currently being developed as a new Wells Fargo bank location. Construction and remodeling activity increase Commercial building permits provide another indication of continued investment in Mesa County. New commercial-building permits were up 22 percent compared to 2025 and 29 percent compared to 2024. This category includes retail, manufacturing and office projects, plus multifamily developments containing four or more units. Business-remodeling permits also increased by 6 percent compared to 2025. Growth in new construction and remodeling suggests businesses and property owners continue to invest in new spaces and improvements to existing commercial properties. Sales tax, use tax show growth Combined Mesa County sales-tax and use-tax collections reached approximately $28.7 million through the second quarter. That represents an increase of 6.2 percent from the $27 million collected during the same period in 2025. While tax collections extend beyond the commercial-real-estate industry, their continued growth provides additional context for the level of business and consumer activity taking place across the county. Commercial market showing continued investment Mesa County’s commercial-real-estate market entered the second half of 2026 with increasing sales volume, continued construction and remodeling activity, and growing sales-tax and use-tax collections. Although the number of closed transactions has remained relatively stable, the presence of larger property sales and continued development activity points to sustained investment throughout the local market, Bray said.
September 2 - 9, 2026
real Q2
rtant part oximately nt land at n on June $1.80 per
involved Avenue, rket near eet. The n June 11 as a new
ctivity
s provide nvestment
permits 2025 and s category nd office lopments
its also pared to ction and ses and invest in o existing
wth s-tax and oximately d quarter. 2 percent uring the
d beyond stry, their additional ness and cross the
ntinued
eal-estate of 2026 continued ivity, and lections. f closed ely stable, sales and points to the local
The Business Times
page 15
The Business Times
Page 16
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
DWC CPAs and Advisors promotes 9 staffers
Jennifer Barnhill
Madison Donnafield Maranda Cloer
Alec Trotter
Kayla Williams
Meghan Foster
Gabriel Saturno
Remington McLean Shelby Geisert
DWC CPAs and Advisors announced recent promotions for nine of its staff members. They are: • Jennifer S. Barnhill, EA to principal. Barnhill has extensive experience serving clients in industries such as agriculture and ranching, oil and gas, and the restaurant industry. She delivers tailored tax solutions aligned with each client’s unique goals and operations. She brings practical experience in multistate tax considerations, supporting clients as their needs extend across jurisdictions. • Madison H. Donnafield, SHRM-CP, to HR supervisor. Donnafield began her human resources career at DWC in 2021, following her graduation from Colorado Mesa University. She leads the firm’s HR department and partners with management and employees on initiatives related to talent acquisition, employee engagement, performance management, benefits, professional development and strategic people initiatives. • Maranda D. Cloer to centralized support supervisor. A Grand Junction native and CMU graduate, Cloer works with clients from a variety of backgrounds. She draws from her experience in the medical field and has a particular appreciation for healthcare-related clients and also enjoys working with clients in the oil and gas industry. • Alec N. Trotter to audit senior. Trotter, a CMU alum, has experience providing assurance and accounting services such as financial statement audits, reviews, compilations and client accounting services to clients in various industries, with a particular focus on construction companies and fire districts. • Kayla V. Williams to audit senior. A CMU alum, Williams is a member of DWC’s Client Accounting Services team and provides accounting support, including day-to-day accounting functions, forecasting, strategic planning, financial reporting, sales tax, and payroll compliance. She serves clients across a variety of industries, including retail, construction, health care, real estate, legal services, restaurants and breweries. • Meghan A. Foster to bookkeeping senior. Foster, a CMU graduate, primarily works with nonprofit and agricultural clients, assisting with their bookkeeping and accounting needs. She is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor, holding Level 1 and Level 2 certifications. • Gabriel C. Saturno to tax senior. Originally from Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil, Saturno attended Western Nebraska Community College and CMU, graduating from the latter in 2023. Saturno works with construction businesses, nonprofit organizations, and individuals with international tax matters. • Remington K. McLean to tax senior. A Fruita native who has lived in the Grand Valley his entire life and is a CMU alum, McLean works with individual, business and nonprofit tax returns. He particularly enjoys working with nonprofit organizations. • Shelby M. Geisert to tax senior. Originally from Golden, Geisert earned associate’s degrees in accounting and business from Red Rocks Community College. She primarily works with real estate clients and retirees and has experience preparing rental-related returns and assisting clients with tax-resolution matters.
September 2 - 9, 2026
The Business Times
page 17
Page 18
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
September 2 - 9, 2026
The Business Times
Smart hiring and intentional development transform a business
Every thriving business shares one defining trait: a team that’s aligned, motivated and empowered. When the right people are in the right roles and their growth is supported, everything gets easier. Disruptions decrease. Productivity rises. Turnover drops. The culture becomes a place people want to be. This isn’t luck. Marcus It’s leadership. And Struab it begins with a commitment to hiring wisely and developing consistently. Behind every strong team is a leader who understands that people are the engine of the business. If you want your company to grow in a way that feels healthy, sustainable and even enjoyable, focus on two essential pillars: Hire with intention; and invest in your people’s development.
Hire with insight, not assumption
Many hiring decisions are made using incomplete information: résumés; quick interviews; gut feelings; or assumptions about personality based on a single conversation. These approaches are riddled with bias and guesswork. And the cost of a poor hire goes far beyond salary. It affects morale, disrupts workflow and drains the energy of the people who have to compensate for the mismatch. Hiring intelligently means going deeper. It means using tools that reveal how a candidate actually thinks, behaves and makes decisions. High-quality assessments can uncover behavioral style, emotional intelligence, core values, business acumen and competencies – attributes that often predict success far more accurately than technical skills alone. When businesses incorporate these assessments into their hiring process, they often see up to a 30 percent increase in productivity and a 50 percent improvement in retention. Why? Because people who are aligned with the role and the culture feel understood. They feel seen. And when people feel seen, they stay and they thrive. Hiring with insight isn’t about perfection. It’s about reducing guesswork and increasing clarity, so you can build a team that fits your pace, your values and your mission. Hiring is only the beginning. The second pillar of a high-performing team is ongoing development. Growth doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention, encouragement and opportunity. A skilled coach or consultant can help you create structured development pathways that build confidence, competence and engagement. This isn’t just about teaching new skills. It’s about helping people become empowered contributors who take pride in their work
and bring positive energy to your culture. Ask yourself: Are you creating an environment where growth is expected and supported? Are your managers equipped to mentor, guide and lead effectively? When employees feel supported, they become more proactive, more loyal and more invested in the success of the business. Development is not a perk, it’s a strategy. Recognition may seem simple, but its impact is profound. When people are acknowledged for their contributions, their confidence grows. Their self esteem strengthens. They begin to see themselves as capable, valued members of the team. Praise is not just a morale booster, it’s a message: You matter. You belong. We believe in your potential. On the other hand, inconsistent leadership, unconstructive criticism and lack of follow-up can dismantle trust quickly. Nothing deflates a strong team faster than unappreciated effort or unclear expectations. Great leaders make recognition a habit. They reinforce strengths, offer constructive feedback and express gratitude regularly. These actions shape the emotional and psychological culture of the company. They create an environment where people feel safe to grow, safe to contribute and safe to excel.
What you model, you multiply
Your commitment to excellence sets the tone for your entire organization. When you invest in professional guidance whether for hiring, team development or leadership coaching, you model humility, growthmindedness and long-term thinking. You show your team that learning and evolving are not just allowed, they’re expected. A qualified consultant or coach can help you install consistent systems, uncover blind spots and strengthen your leadership style. The right partner doesn’t take over; they walk beside you, helping you cultivate a workplace where people do their best work and genuinely enjoy doing it. When your team operates at a high level, everything improves. Operations run more smoothly. Client satisfaction rises. Engagement and attendance increase. Turnover declines. And your role as the owner or leader becomes more fulfilling. Your business becomes a place people want to be. A place that attracts talent, retains great people and supports long-term success. Ultimately, your business is only as strong as the people within it. Hire wisely. Develop consistently. Recognize generously. Lead by example. When you do, you won’t just build a more successful business, you’ll build one that brings genuine satisfaction and purpose to you and your team. F Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction. Reach Straub at (970) 208-3150, marcus@ ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com.
page 19
The Business Times
Page 20
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
Yes, it’s about the thing, but it goes deeper than the thing And in my examples of the “things” for the purposes of this column, one thing is beyond heinous to the level of evil, and the other is pretty much petty, if not stupid. But let’s go on the journey anyways and talk about these things, because there’s a third thing that is my personal thing, which is affected by these other kinds of things on the daily, if not every waking moment. And this column begins with my waking moments in a day in the life of Craigy. After I get through the routine of bodily functions of getting up in the morning (if you’re over 60, you for sure know what I mean) the first thing in the morning routine of what has become my everyday life is something I’ve committed to do and have been pretty good, kinda OK at in my God scale. And that’s sitting down and spending a half hour or so with my Maker absorbing His word and a few life lessons to go with. Craig Hall Yes, I’m talking about doing a morning devotion. The reason I say I do OK by them is evidenced in the now dozen or so composition notebooks on a bookshelf in my bedroom showing I’ve been participating in this routine for some time. I usually fill a college-ruled page a day in my quest to become closer to and more like my Lord and Savior. Some of you might see that last line more prevalent in my life in the past few years. Some may declare it’s 180 degrees opposite. But that’s the joy of writing an opinion column. But the one thing that’s become more intense as I believe I’m growing on my Heavenly journey is the stuff that gets in the way of me getting into the Word. For you, it may be your half hour of coffee on the patio or a walk around the neighborhood. Yes, whether you like it or not, that’s your time with god, or in my case, God. But the stuff getting in the way today is either out of this world or totally succumbed to the world. Pick your poison. Worse, it’s probably 99 percent avoidable if we’d all just do one thing, and that’s NOT choosing to pick up our cell phones first thing before rolling out of bed. Because I know when I do, little, if any, good comes from it. As I’ve always said, if you don’t think there’s a Satan, just try to get up and do a devotion first thing every morning. You’ll meet him every day. But what’s really bothering me today are the main interrupters of my intentions to just take a moment of peace in my morning. And the two red horns in my “hell of a morning” routines are the Clancy case and the WNBA. You can’t avoid either of them, and while they may have some importance related to my life, they are taking up way more space in distracting me from what should be the purpose in my life. For some of you, that’s bringing you local news. For a few, it’s perhaps having a space to call me an idiot to take out some misplaced aggression. For others, it’s to learn a little something about what’s going on in our (fallen) world. And for a unique few (and these are the folks I worry most about) it’s to say, “I 100 percent agree with you, Craig.” The worst news, I’m becoming to think I’m all these things as well! But back to my other two things. As for the Clancy case. Other than saying it’s evil to its core regardless of who committed the murders, I must confess I didn’t even know
Support Local
about it until things went viral online. And as we all know, once viral, these things pop up literally every other thread as we scroll on social media. But it’s what pops up along with them that bothers me most. That, and there’s never a millstone around when we need one. As for the ironic idiocy known as the WNBA, I’ve never seen such an overreaction to something never said in my lifetime. I’ve also never seen an organization so dedicated to destroying itself from within, outside of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team. Oh, and government. The WNBA is women’s soccer on Rapinoe-roids, and it doesn’t help with media going to the Megan-phone for comment. Like we don’t know what side she’s taking. But as Craigy-vision sees these things, it goes deeper. Yes, the murders of three innocent children are heinous enough. And we should as a society do all we can to get to the truth and present those facts to the people, so justice can be meted out. But is that what you get from all the posts you see? I sure don’t. As for the WNBA, does anyone have any idea what the league’s position is on this, given all the hysteria over something never said to a “problem” it declares the league doesn’t have? And why does it describe this thing, if it is happening, a “problem?” That’s a problem in and of itself. Then again, the league can’t even determine what the source of the alleged “problem/not a problem” is. The only thing that isn’t a problem for me, more videos of Sophie. And I realize these are fairly simple overviews, but I have a point to make. The result in society is they are serving to divide us. And it’s not just men from women. It’s also women from women and men from men. These are both, at their core, divisive situations for humanity. Have you seen the stuff written about them and toward each other online? It’s as if some women are looking to grab the torch of toxic masculinity they despise and run it to new heights. As for men, the lack of compassion for real-life difficulties of motherhood and sarcastic, demeaning commentary has no place in the search for the truth. And I’m not even mentioning those of us declared ineligible or too afraid to comment – especially about the insanity that is the WNBA, where folks really feel safe in going off. The spectrum is too wide, and the level of hatred is too deep for most to comprehend. The chasm widens. And civil society suffers. Yes, we should do more as a society about post-partum issues. Yes, we should do more about husbands who are abusive. Yes, we should always do everything in our power to protect children. So yes, we should keep males out of female sports while respecting the rights of all (as we all have equal rights, but that’s for another column). And do you know the best way to do it? It sure isn’t taking it to government to solve. How about some time with your God in the morning before getting on your phone? Nothing like a little devotion to peace, hope and mercy to humanity before breakfast. In Truth and freedom. F Craig Hall is owner and publisher of The Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com
Support Business
The local business and community news you want to know delivered weekly to your business, office or home. LOCAL NEWS / OPINION / CONTRIBUTORS / BUSINESS BRIEFS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR / COMMUNITY NEWS AND EVENTS
$50/year for 52 papers/year
TheBusinessTimes.com/subscribe
September 2 - 9, 2026
The Business Times
page 21
Page 22
The Business Times
n GJ Symphony Orchestra opens new season Sept. 5
The Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra will open its 48th season with two performances at Asteria Theatre: Sept. 5 at 7:30 p.m.; and Sept. 6 at 3 p.m. Music Director Charles Latshaw will lead works by Healey Willan, Edvard Grieg and Jean Sibelius, with pianist Chaeyoung Park joining the orchestra as guest soloist. “Grieg and Sibelius Pianist Chaeyoung Park will be guest soloist for Grand both understood how to Junction Symphony Orchestra’s Sept 5-6 performances. make an orchestra sound like a landscape, and Chaeyoung Park is exactly the artist you want at the piano for that,” Latshaw said. “The Sibelius Second has one of the greatest endings in all of music. I cannot think of a better way to tell this community what Season 48 is going to be.” Park won first prize at the 2022 Young Concert Artists Susan Wadsworth International Auditions, and in 2019 she became the first Korean woman to take first place at the Hilton Head International Piano Competition, a win that led to her solo debut at Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall. She has appeared with the Israel Philharmonic, the Kansas City Symphony, and the Rochester Philharmonic, and in Colorado at the Bravo! Vail Music Festival. She holds three degrees from The Juilliard School. A pre-concert talk begins one hour before each performance and is free to ticket holders. Tickets start at $21 and are available at gjso.org, by phone at 970-243-6787, and at the door on the day of the performance. Student and group rates are available.
n Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program comes to GJ Grand Junction Toastmasters is inviting local students ages 13-18 to speak up, build confidence and discover their leadership potential through a free, four-week Youth Leadership Program this fall. The program meets Mondays, October 5, 12, 19 and 26, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at the Mesa County Central Library, 443 N. Sixth Street. It is designed to help students develop public speaking, leadership, critical-thinking and communication skills in a fun, supportive environment. “Speaking in front of others can be intimidating at any age,” said Ani Breedlove of Grand Junction Toastmasters. “Our goal is to create a welcoming, encouraging space where young people can find their voice, build confidence, and have fun while discovering what they are capable of.” During the four-week program, participants will have opportunities to:
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026
• Speak with Confidence: Overcome nerves and find their voice. • Lead with Impact: Develop practical leadership skills they can use every day. • Think Critically: Organize ideas and communicate clearly. • Grow & Connect: Meet new friends while building confidence and leadership potential. Registration is free, and students can RSVP at gjtoastmasters@gmail.com.
n Incumbent lawmakers earn NFIB Colorado endorsement The NFIB Colorado PAC, comprised exclusively of NFIB members from Colorado, endorsed 18 incumbent state legislators for re-election, including two Republicans from the Grand Valley: District 7 Sen. Janice Rich and District 55 Rep. Rick Taggart. “Small businesses are the foundation of our state’s economy, employing nearly half of working Coloradans,” NFIB State Director Michael Smith said. “Despite this, the General Assembly regularly considers policies that make it harder to do business in Colorado. Main Street needs strong advocates in Denver. These 18 candidates understand the challenges our small businesses face and have been strong supporters of our local job creators. “On behalf of our nearly 6,000 members across the state, I’m proud to announce these endorsements and ask all Colorado voters to support pro-small business candidates.” NFIB’s political support is based on the candidates’ positions and records on key small-business issues.
n County selling 23 Road property for $549,900 The Mesa County Commission on Aug. 25 approved the sale of county-owned property at 905 23 Road in Grand Junction for $549,900. That amount was the highest of two bids the county got on the 2.7-acre piece of land that has a large storage garage on it. The county said in a news release the property supported Road and Bridge District A operations by providing space for equipment, staff and materials. Road and Bridge now uses a larger county site for those needs. Selling property that is no longer needed allows Mesa County to receive revenue from the asset rather than continue owning, maintaining and managing a separate site. The commission’s approval allows the sale to move forward. According to the news release, ownership will transfer after the remaining contract requirements and closing are completed.
n Help shelter pets by donating old newspaper Mesa County Animal Services is asking people to donate old newspapers for use at the shelter. Paper is always needed to line crates and help house train puppies. Animal Services, 971A Coffman Road, is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Drop off old newspapers any time during their business hours to contribute to the comfort and cleanliness of animals at the shelter.
September 2 - 9, 2026
day.
eadership
ement
Colorado, cans from . rly half of e General ado. Main enges our
unce these ates.” ds on key
ty-owned highest of rage on it. District A idge now ed allows aintaining
the news losing are
for use at
y through any time mals at the
The Business Times
page 23
Page 24
The Business Times
SePtember 2 - 9, 2026