Eric Bergman, who has served as policy director for Colorado Counties, Inc. since 2010, is leaving the organization at the end of the legislative session to become director of the division of local government at the Department of Local Affairs.

It’s a return to an agency with whom he has worked closely over the past 14 years, and for seven years before that —when he was the director of the agency’s Office of Smart Growth during the Owens and Ritter administrations.

Bergman, named a top influencer by Colorado Politics in 2019, has spent 25 years working with local governments. 

“I am thrilled to welcome Eric back to DOLA as the new Director of the Division of Local Government,” said DOLA Executive Director Maria DeCambra. “Drawing from over 25 years of experience working with local government, Eric has been a driving force in shaping meaningful change across our state. His genuine passion for local governance, nurtured by the legacy of his late grandfather, a former county commissioner, is deeply ingrained in his approach to community impact.”

DeCambra also hinted at one of Bergman’s best qualities: his sense of humor. 

He’s been a regular in Colorado Politics’ Saturday Capitol M humor column, for his jokes (including the ones in which he is the target) and affection for all things Star Wars.

“His infectious positivity leaves a lasting impression on everyone who he meets, and I look forward to the innovative leadership that he will bring to our division,” she said in a Friday statement.

“I’m deeply honored to rejoin the team at DOLA and have the opportunity to partner with local governments as they work on some of the most pressing issues facing our state today,” Bergman said. “Challenges like establishing more affordable and attainable housing stock, expanding broadband service, increasing transit and mobility options and creating vibrant, resilient communities requires expanded resource availability and collaboration between jurisdictions and agencies. DOLA is uniquely positioned to help and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”

He officially joins DOLA on May 20, which will allow him to finish up the 2024 legislative session for CCI.