A Mission Reborn in Douglas County
The newly formed Douglas County Local Business Alliance™ (DCLBA) is more than just a name—it’s a mission rekindled. Originally launched as the Castle Rock Local Business Alliance™ by Sean Hakes and longtime friend Gary Godfrey, the initiative quickly became a symbol of advocacy, partnership, and small business pride in Castle Rock.
Tragically, Gary passed away during the early days of COVID, and the Alliance lost its momentum as Sean temporarily moved to South Carolina. With both founders no longer active locally, the Castle Rock LBA ultimately closed.
But now, Sean is back—and so is the mission. Stronger, broader, and countywide.
Why It Matters Now
Douglas County has experienced explosive growth over the past few years. As towns expand and new developments rise, small and independently owned businesses are being asked to navigate increasingly complex regulatory environments—often without a seat at the table.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities,” said Hakes. “And with policies changing fast, it’s more important than ever to have a strong, unified voice looking out for their interests.”
The relaunch of the Alliance addresses this exact need: a trusted advocate to help protect, promote, and empower the local businesses that make Douglas County thrive.
What the Alliance Stands For
- Advocacy: Representing local business needs in discussions about zoning, signage, permitting, and development policy at both town and county levels.
- Education: Helping the public understand how shopping small supports economic resilience, local jobs, and community character.
- Community Building: Hosting collaborative events, networking opportunities, and workshops to bring entrepreneurs together.
- Policy Influence: Serving as a professional voice in local government to ensure business-friendly decisions are made with long-term success in mind.
Independent and Rooted in Community
The DCLBA is proudly operated by AAERO, LLC and will remain free from government funding or nonprofit oversight. This independence is by design—ensuring that decisions and direction come directly from the people the Alliance serves: local business owners.
“We’re not interested in bureaucracy,” said Hakes. “We’re interested in results. That means helping businesses navigate real-world challenges and influencing local leadership in a way that’s bold, respectful, and effective.”
Looking Ahead
The Alliance plans to host monthly meetings, offer business-building workshops, and launch local awareness campaigns that champion the “shop small” movement across Douglas County. Membership will be open to independent business owners, professionals, and community leaders who believe in protecting the entrepreneurial spirit of our towns.
“We’re stronger together,” Hakes emphasized. “If we want our communities to thrive, we have to stand up for each other. The DCLBA is the platform where that happens.”
Join the Douglas County Local Business Alliance™
Whether you’re a small business owner, community leader, or advocate for entrepreneurship, the DCLBA is your platform to shape the future of Douglas County’s business landscape.
Get Involved Today