GBP hire of Collins has Pride group on the attack

BURLINGTON  – As part of an ongoing dialogue with the community, the Greater Burlington Partnership is emphasizing its commitment to ensuring economic development remains a collaborative and inclusive effort that benefits the entire region.

The appointment of Taylor Collins as Executive Director of Economic Development, effective May 1, 2025, has sparked dialogue throughout the community. As an organization, the Greater Burlington Partnership respects and values the many perspectives of the people we serve, and we welcome thoughtful engagement.
BTown Pride launched a petition to have Collins removed from the position with Greater Partnership as part of a statement accusing Collins of not being qualified to represent the entirety of the Greater Burlington area.
In their statement last week the group said Collins' record is one of "division, exclusion, and harm". They cited several votes on Collins' record as State Representative including:
• He voted in favor of HF718, which capped tax levies — even those previously approved by voters — slashing funding for critical public amenities like the library, community pool, art center, and municipal band.
• He supported efforts to strip diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across Iowa, and backed measures that restrict academic freedom at state universities.
• He voted to remove rights from the Iowa Civil Rights Act — undoing protections that had been in place since 2007 and making Iowa the first state to remove civil protections, a dangerous precedent that could impact all Iowans.

According to a release from the partnership on Wednesday, the organization aligns with values of inclusion and nonpartisanship.

"The Greater Burlington Partnership is not a political entity, and staff roles are not vehicles for political advocacy. While the Economic Development Executive Director may hold public office, his responsibilities within the Partnership are focused solely on advancing economic growth and opportunity across the region," the statement released by Dustin Roth, GBP Director of Marketing and Communication, explained.
"This is a results-driven position, measured by tangible outcomes such as business growth, job creation, and strategic partnerships that strengthen the local economy. Clear expectations are in place, and the position is overseen by the President & CEO and the Economic Development Board of Directors, who are committed to ensuring that all efforts reflect the best interests of Greater Burlington’s residents, businesses, and stakeholders."
GBP President and CEO Amy O'Brien said the agency is focused on economic development.

“Greater Burlington is made up of people with many different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. And that’s what makes this community so strong,” she wrote.
“We’re proud to serve a place where people care deeply about their neighbors and their future. Our work in economic development is focused on expanding opportunity and strengthening our region, for everyone who calls this area home.”

The statement went on to add the partnership remains committed to advocating for the needs of the community and supporting efforts that contribute to long-term economic growth and regional vitality.

"All staff are required to uphold the Partnership’s core values: collaboration, integrity, and service to the entire community. We remain open to hearing from the community and working together to ensure our efforts reflect the values and goals of the region we proudly serve."