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YVDP: Nonprofit organization doesn’t take positions on political issues

To the editor:

In response to the article “Steamboat economic analyst Scott Ford ends relationship with Yampa Valley Data Partners” (Jan. 9 Craig Daily Press), Yampa Valley Data Partners (YVDP) is a neutral, non-advocacy, nonprofit organization with the mission of developing collaborative partnerships and to provide relevant, timely data to decision makers.

Scott Ford was an independent contractor to the organization who worked closely with YVDP Executive Director Kate Nowak for four years. During this time, Scott represented the organization in numerous public meetings and reports.



Scott often attended public meetings wearing the Yampa Valley Data Partner’s name badge. As time went by, Scott was perceived as a voice for Yampa Valley Data Partners.

Because of this perception, Scott’s choice to lead a position on a politically charged issue was interpreted by many as the view of YVDP. Kate’s subsequent conversations with members of the City of Steamboat Springs and the Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association were to clarify that any political view was solely Scott’s personal view.



YVDP is a neutral organization and will not take positions on political issues.

In discussing options with Scott, he made the decision to leave the organization before the final conversation of “we agree to disagree” came about. In fact, before this final conversation could happen, there was an article in the paper about Scott’s resignation from YVDP.

Scott was a valued member of the YVDP organization. We will miss his contributions to the organization and wish him well in his future endeavors.

YVDP Board of Directors

Terry Carwile, Greg Dixson, Tyler Jacobs, Pamela Kinder, MD, Tom Krabacher, Jack Lewis, Sharon Smith


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