Over 33 years more than $2.9 billion Lottery dollars have had an impressive impact on Colorado; parks, recreation, open space, wildlife projects, and public school construction.
In Fiscal Year (FY) 2016, the Lottery generated $594.4 million in sales and over $143.5 million for Lottery beneficiary partners. This was accomplished because of the hard work of committed Lottery retail partners,
dedicated employees, the support of valued players, and an unprecedented Powerball jackpot that totaled $1.5 billion.
As we forge through FY2017, the Lottery will continue on its mission to create and sell Lottery games of chance that are held to the highest standards of integrity, entertainment and efficiency in order to maximize proceeds for the people of Colorado.
On behalf of the Colorado Lottery, I am pleased to present, “A Look Into the Colorado Lottery”. The Lottery is an agency operated within the Colorado Department of Revenue. The closure of fiscal year 2016 marked 33 years since the first Colorado Lottery Scratch ticket was sold. The Lottery is proud that since its inception more than $2.9 billion dollars has been returned to Colorado for the improvement, preservation, creation, or enhancement of parks, recreation, wildlife projects, open space, and public school construction.
The Lottery is an industry leader, built on strong relationships with players, retailers, and proceeds partners. The statutory requirement of returning annually increasing proceeds drives Lottery goals and objectives. The Lottery introduced exciting new games and ways to play as evidenced by the record breaking sales and proceeds generated in 2016.
The 120 Lottery staff work collaboratively with more than 3,000 retailers to achieve its statutory responsibilities. We will continue to demonstrate a commitment to excellent customer service, delivery of superior products, operate with innovation, integrity, and efficiency to accomplish the mission of generating resources that directly improve the quality of life through the enhancement of Colorado’s great outdoors.
Retired District Judge Dennis Maes was appointed to the Colorado Lottery Commission on July 19, 2013. He retired from the Pueblo District Court bench in May, 2012 after serving 24 years, the last 17 as Chief District Judge. Maes graduated from the University of Colorado School of Law in 1972 and spent his entire legal career in Pueblo. He has been involved in many bar association and community activities. He is passionate about working with children and addressing mental health needs. He has received numerous honors and awards for his service.
Concerning his service on the Lottery Commission, he is extremely proud of its commitment to the integrity of the process and especially proud of its outreach to the less fortunate communities that deserve to share equally in the many benefits provided by the Lottery. These accomplishments are possible because of the dedicated, fun and hardworking state employees that work for the Colorado Lottery.
