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The Ritter Report

Lynn Bartels, Rocky Mountain News

Published March 26, 2007 at midnight

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Ritter's week in review

Gov. Bill Ritter, who took office in January, has only 44 days left in his first legislative session. Here's a look at last week:

• Education: In a stunner, every Senate Democrat but one voted against Ritter's proposal to freeze mill levy rates at their current levels to raise more money for schools. Without action, the rates would begin declining in 2008. Democrats said they want a legal opinion before proceeding.

• Energy: Ritter helped announce a venture that will develop new biofuels and biorefining techniques and assist in transferring those advances to the public.

In addition, the governor was among more than 1,000 particpants from around the country to participate in Colorado's renewable energy summit.

• Face time: The new governor is a sought-after speaker. He answered questions for an hour on Aaron Harber's public-affairs television show, and spoke to numerous groups, including Colorado's community college presidents.

• Health care: CU officials were thrilled when Ritter signed a bill that reinvests money in health care because Senate Bill 97 also restored funding to the University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center.

• Military: In an impressive change-of-commmand ceremony, Brig. Gen. Michael Edwards took over as adjutant general and executive director of the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. Edward succeeds Maj. Gen. Mason Whitney, who retired.

• Water: An economic development meeting in Morgan County turned into a modern-day Milagro Beanfield War with farmers upset over water issues. Ritter brought along two of his top Cabinet directors to listen to their concerns.

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