There has been much debate regarding the pros and cons of the proposed La Plata County sales tax increase, 1A.
I am for it and here is why:
The county budget problem has been decades in the making. Clearly, the rate of tax revenue coming in does not match our community needs and state/federal mandates. We require a county government that not only survives but thrives while meeting the necessities of our community.
- I want strong public health system.
- I want roads that are not just slapdash patched occasionally; but properly repaired for longevity.
- I care a lot about my neighbors including children and families in crisis.
- I care about veterans and seniors who rely on La Plata County programs (i.e., senior center, home chores, Meals on Wheels, social activities and more).
- I want disaster response and wildfire mitigation programs not just to exist but to be robust models for our entire state.
If the recent Vallecito flood taught us anything, it’s that our La Plata County government employees are there when you need them. I am so thankful for their work which was around the clock when Vallecito Creek started to rise.
In the present state of affairs, there is so much out of our control.
But, we voters can control what kind of local community we live in. Here in La Plata County, we deserve a county government for the 21st century, not one with revenue rates passed in the last one. I moved here because it’s a great county and an awesome community. Let’s keep it that way. I urge you to vote “yes” on 1A.
Gretchen Nordam
Durango
