Living near Vallecito, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly disaster can strike. Whether it’s the flooding we’ve just experienced or the growing threat of wildfires each summer. When emergencies happen, our first responders, road crews, and sheriff’s deputies are the ones who answer the call. Ballot Issue 1A, the one-cent sales tax, ensures they have the resources to keep doing that.
It’s been more than 43 years since La Plata County last increased its sales tax. We’re still trying to meet today’s challenges with 1980s funding. The world has changed, the risks have grown – but our funding has not.
Revenue from 1A will help fund wildfire prevention, mitigation, and education, along with critical disaster response and Emergency Operations Center capabilities. It also supports the Sheriff’s Office and patrol services, which aren’t required by law but are absolutely essential for public safety.
Public safety benefits everyone, and that’s why everyone should help pay in. One penny on the dollar is a fair and modest way to ensure we can continue protecting our homes, families, and communities when it matters most.
After 43 years, it’s time to update how we fund the services that keep La Plata County safe and strong. I urge my neighbors to join me in voting “yes” on 1A – because safety isn’t optional.
Lori Cole
Bayfield
