The Cortez Area of Chamber of Commerce has chosen one of its board members to take over the full-time role of executive director.

According to a news release, board member Colton Black will assume the role in an attempt to provide support to the local business community by providing networking opportunities, facilitating growth and development and advocating for chamber members in legislative conversations.

Black works as a lender for Dolores State Bank in Cortez.

The previous executive director, Raquel Moss, was let go last year due to COVID-19.

Two additional board members resigned last year. The other remaining board members are Darrin Dennison and Bridgett Jabour.

Unlike most Colorado chambers, the Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce is funded solely through membership dues. Any chamber member that applied for county CARES Act funds in 2020 received a 2021 membership at no cost.

“I have lived in the Four Corners pretty much my whole life, and I’ve always been a big believer in its potential,” Black stated in the release. “I am excited for this opportunity to use the knowledge and experience I’ve gained throughout my professional career to help our local business community. Together I think we will be able to leverage the incredible potential of the Cortez area in ways that strengthen and grow their businesses both now and into the future.”

More information on the Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce can be found at www.cortezchamber.com

anicotera@the-journal.com