Is La Plata County a victim of misguided democracy?
The proposed recall for La Plata County Commissioner Gwen Lachelt says yes.
Since being elected into office twice by La Plata residents, Lachelt has made great strides to protect our environment and public health. But, in doing so, she has angered a few local oil and gas industry lobbyists, who have begun to paint Lachelt as the enemy of oil and gas.
With a little digging, one can see that Lachelt has never voted against an oil or gas permit since being elected into office in 2012. Additionally, the current wave of anger caused by the land use code revision process has set fire to a few local residents, adding gasoline to this figurative fire.
Americans for Prosperity have capitalized on the anger of those citizens, channeling their energy to recall Lachelt, even though all three commissioners support revising the land use code.
I believe Gwen Lachelt is an incredible leader for La Plata County. She has listened to her voters and backed our ideals. Lachelt has protected our air and our water for our future.
This recall is nothing but an impulsive and misguided action that may cost La Plata County taxpayers over $60,000 in special election fees.
So don’t be a victim of misguided democracy. Don’t sign the recall petition. Let Gwen continue her great work for us, for the environment, for our health and our future here in beautiful Southwest Colorado.
Amber Benally
Durango
