When we moved to Durango from Iowa in 1999, we were shocked at the low property tax bill. Our tax was cut by 75%, for a much more expensive home.
However, we have learned over the years that lower taxes, especially with gas and oil revenues declining, meant all county services have been cut significantly.
Roads and bridges have been declining because the department didn’t have the funds to keep them in good condition. Rough roads and decaying bridges threaten lives. Fewer sheriff’s deputies are available and the number continues to decline due to budget cuts. Safety is essential to our well-being and to our community as a family haven.
What about those who need a hand up? As county support for our local nonprofits have had to be cut, the working poor suffer most. This crisis has been forecast but the unpredictable cuts in federal funds and their impact on state funds, forced our county to make agonizing staff cutbacks.
Who can fix this problem? We can.
Want snowplows on the roads at night during a major snowstorm? Want a deputy to respond when your family is threatened? Want the children down the street to have dinner tonight?
Spend a little to make a big difference together. Vote “yes” for the 1% sales tax Increase for La Plata County and watch the improvements.
Paulette Church
Durango
