As a long-term resident, retired bank CEO, former Transportation Commissioner and consistent cyclist, I have seen first hand the effects of our present funding situation for roads, bridges and culverts. Our only sources today are property taxes and inconsistent state funds. The county commissioners have recently placed in front of voters a 1 cent sales tax – known as Ballot Measure 1A – to bring in money for not only maintaining roads but for improving them across four road districts.
Twice before, in 2015 and 2016, property tax measures that would have improved our infrastructure have not been supported by voters. So, this time around a sales tax is proposed because everyone pays. Tourists pay 33% of it because they use the roads, too.
County road and bridge crews are highly skilled, dedicated folks. They are out at 3 a.m. plowing roads in winter storms, over 1,500 miles. They have been up in the Vallecito flooding area keeping debris off bridges and assessing them for safety. These dedicated people do great work but on a shoestring budget.
It’s time to make sure county infrastructure is strong not only for visitors but EMS vehicles, commuters, school buses and for the businesses who rely on a good road network.
The last time a tax was passed that goes to roads was in the 1980s. Isn’t it time that everyone gets a road system they not only need but deserve? I urge your “yes” vote on 1A.
Steve Parker
Durango
