News

DURA welcomes Eric Hiraga and Ron Tilton to Board of Commissioners

October 4, 2021

Denver Urban Renewal Authority recently announced Eric Hiraga and Ron Tilton as the latest appointments to its Board of Commissioners. As members of the board, Hiraga and Tilton will help guide the organization’s programs, policies and priorities.

“We’re excited to welcome Eric and Ron to the DURA board,” said DURA’s Executive Director, Tracy Huggins. “Both have a wealth of experience working with Denver communities to make our city stronger, more inclusive and vibrant.”

Eric Hiraga is the Executive Director of  Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO), a position he assumed upon his appointment by Mayor Michael B. Hancock in August 2017. DEDO is leading an inclusive and innovative economy for all Denver residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. Under Hiraga’s leadership, DEDO has been at the forefront of the city’s pandemic relief and recovery efforts — sponsoring Mayor Hancock’s Economic Relief and Recovery Council as well as forming and leading RISE Denver (Rebuilding for an Inclusive and Sustainable Economy).

Hiraga’s leadership also resulted in the city’s first-ever Neighborhood Equity and Stabilization division  (NEST) which supports neighborhoods experiencing significant change. In addition to NEST, Hiraga also directs DEDO’s Business Development, Global Business Development, Workforce Services, and the city’s Division of Small Business Opportunity.

Ron Tilton, former president of FirstBank, retired after a nearly 36-year career with the organization. Tilton started his career with FirstBank – Colorado’s largest bank and the third largest privately held bank in the nation – and spent much of his career managing large commercial real estate relationships. He was also largely responsible for facilitating FirstBank’s most complex client relationships and financing projects.

Tilton is currently giving back to the community as a member of the MSU Denver Foundation Board and as a commissioner. His past public service includes the Metro Denver Economic Corporation Board, the Colorado Hall of Fame Selection Committee and the Colorado State Banking Board.

“DURA support for our clients was essential in helping challenging developments come to fruition. The city would not look the same without the presence and support of DURA,” said Tilton. “I am excited to sit on the other side of the table representing DURA as it continues its fantastic and important role in our community.”