Colorado Department of State

This document outlines Colorado's declaration of independence from the United States, asserting its constitution as the supreme law. It proposes extensive amendments to the Colorado Constitution, covering new provisions for citizenship, immigration, economic policies such as border adjustments and state takeover of U.S. programs, and the establishment of independent foreign and military affairs. The plan also details Colorado's intention to seek recognition from and membership in numerous international organizations, and to align its laws and governance structures to that of an independent nation.

The board discussed various initiatives, including those related to voter approval for fees, income tax rates, and tax expansions. Key topics included defining fees in TABOR, requiring voter approval for new enterprises, reducing income tax rates, and protecting funding for the Department of Education and HCPF. The board addressed issues such as single subject concerns, applicability clauses, and the definition of "tax expansion." Some initiatives were withdrawn or denied due to concerns about their construction or potential impact.

The meeting included updates on the 2018 Go Code Colorado challenge, emphasizing a shift towards data use and analysis, and changes to the award structure. There was also an update on data publishing efforts, including data published to data from the Department of Public Safety and the Secretary of State's office, as well as outreach to local governments. The board discussed a business research project focused on understanding the needs of business decision-makers and how public data could be useful.

The meeting included a review of advisory board processes to comply with open meetings law. Input was requested on recommendations for potential additional appointments to the board, including defined terms and staggered appointments, as well as adding industry representation. The board reviewed the current mission statement, discussing tying the mission to the state open data vision, the public-private-partnership model, and citizen engagement. An update was provided on the potential calendar for the 2017 Go Code Colorado challenge, and input was sought on the process to determine challenge statements.

The meeting included discussions on advisory board appointments, focusing on industry representation, geographic diversity, and expertise in community and talent development. The board also reviewed a list of targeted data for publishing, including municipal budgets and financials, state contract management, licensed real estate agents, uniform crime statistics, liquor licenses, real property taxation, and childcare and nursing home facilities. An update was provided on the 2017 Go Code Colorado challenge planning activity.