It has been 43 years since La Plata County last increased its sales tax. In that time, the county population has grown, costs have gone up and the responsibilities of local government have expanded dramatically. Yet the funding to support these services has remained essentially frozen in time.
Ballot Issue 1A, the one-cent sales tax, gives us a chance to finally address this gap. This is not just about law enforcement. It’s about making sure every department – from Roads and Bridge to Public Health to Human Services – has the resources they need to serve our community. But for the Sheriff’s Office, it means something very direct: being able to maintain staffing levels, update equipment and ensure we can continue responding quickly and effectively when you call for help.
When you’re the one facing an emergency, minutes matter. Having enough deputies on the road, well-trained and well-equipped, can make the difference. Without new funding, our agency will be forced to stretch even thinner. That’s not fair to the people who depend on us, and it’s not sustainable for the future of La Plata County.
One penny on the dollar is a small price to pay for peace of mind, safety and reliable services countywide. After more than four decades without an increase, it’s time to make this modest adjustment. I urge you to join me in voting “yes” on Ballot Issue 1A. Together, we can protect the services we rely on today and invest in tomorrow.
Mitchell T. Higgins, Commander, La Plata County Sheriff’s Office
Bayfield
