Recognizing the need in late 1997 for a concerted
economic development effort to sustain the vibrancy
and quality of life cherished in La Plata County,
a consortium of local business leaders, in tandem
with the Durango Chamber of Commerce, organized
the Economic Development Task Force. Charged with
the mission to initiate an economic development
effort that reflected the community's vision and
values, the task force planted the seeds of what
would eventually become the La Plata Economic
Development Action Partnership.
Community surveys revealed an understanding of
the need for economic development, and after two
years of research, dialogue and concerted planning,
a mission statement, vision statement, strategic
plan and a list of action items were developed.
This dedicated group also committed to raising
both public and private sector funds to finance
an economic development office.
As the new century dawned, so did the La Plata
Economic Development Action Partnership, now referred
to as LEAD. Incorporated as a 501(c)(6) non-profit
corporation, LEAD welcomed an official board of
directors and appointed officers. Next, the group
began the search for an executive director to
meet the challenge of fulfilling the vision established
by this volunteer coalition.
Though they conducted a comprehensive, nationwide
search, the directors awarded the position to
Bobby Lieb, an energetic, established local businessman
who had lived much of his life in La Plata County.
Since his appointment, Lieb has firmly established
LEAD as a viable entity in La Plata County. LEAD
is now considered by most in the community as
the official "voice for La Plata County businesses
and employers".
In January 2003, Lieb was appointed as the Executive
Director of the Durango Chamber of Commerce. Serving
as the Executive Director for both organizations
Lieb's reach has extended throughout the state
as he endeavors to meet the mission of LEAD, and
sustain the economic vibrancy of La Plata County
now and for generations to come.
