A letter to the editor and city councilors: As a former member of Durango’s Library Advisory Board, I respectfully write to share my thoughts directly with the councilors about their proposal to restructure and dissolve our city’s advisory councils, boards and commissions.

This proposal is shortsighted. You have not considered a potential serious consequence – losing capable volunteers at a time when participation in local government is on the decline.

We need inclusive public dialogue and diverse perspectives in our public life.

Your proposal is contrary to your publicly stated goal of creating an engaged citizenry. We should be encouraging our experienced and skilled residents to voluntarily join our efforts to improve Durango as we grow, not decrease their numbers.

Frankly, this proposal feels arrogant, saying, “We don't need you.'” Nonsense. We need all the expert help and fresh ideas. Don’t ignore these generous and valuable citizens.

Remember the excitement and enthusiasm you felt when you ran for office? Our volunteer friends feel the same excitement and possibility of positively impacting the numerous issues we face.

Please, slow down, reconsider this proposal and involve the public it directly affects.

We are lucky to live in a beautiful place. We take pride in our hometown and want to make a positive difference. Please, don't reduce the opportunity for volunteers to contribute time and talents.

They may not have contributed the same amount of time as you, but that doesn’t make citizen volunteers less valuable.

Thank you for your community service.

Salye Stein

Durango