Most people know that Gwen Lachelt and Julie Westendorff back the policies of powerful environmental groups and vote for more regulations on their behalf. Many suspect that they are financially backed by these groups. Some recent research sheds some light on the significant election campaign funds Lachelt and Westendorff received (more than double the challengers to the incumbents received).
A noticeable part of their campaign contributions come from special interest groups or individuals associated with Earthworks, San Juan Citizens Alliance and Colorado Conservation Voters Action Fund. Further, there are many lawyers who have contributed. Yes, it’s that profession most of us have grown to dislike. Some of the contributing lawyers have been on environmental NGOs boards or employees with groups such as San Juan Citizens Alliance and Earthworks. In some cases, donors funnel their contributions to the La Plata County Democratic Party, which in turn writes checks to Lachelt and Westendorff for their campaigns.
Our county’s financial situation is in real trouble and Lachelt and Westendorff are part of the problem. Further, we have a permitting system that is still a mess and needs some major changes (just ask anyone who has applied for a permit). Despite what you may hear in the media, very little has been done to improve the process over the last four years. The ability to attract new businesses to La Plata County will not be effective until major changes are made to the planning and permitting here.
Don’t let big money buy the elections this fall! Let’s get back to having honest and ethical county commissioners who solve real problems. County commissioner candidates Lyle McKnight and Kayla Patterson support responsible economic growth and are listening to La Plata County citizens, not the special interest groups. Please vote for them this fall.
Bill Lambert
Durango
