Rumors of potential property condemnations in Archuleta County raise a fundamental concern: Are these projects truly necessary to ensure affordable, reliable, local power, or is LPEA expanding into costly, unproven ventures without demonstrating real benefit to the communities it serves? We need answers before any project moves forward that could displace landowners or increase long-term financial risk.
At the same time, LPEA’s recently announced rate freeze is being advertised as relief for members, but it is funded by drawing down the cooperative’s rainy-day reserves. That may make for good headlines, but it is a temporary Band-Aid, not a solution. Without addressing the underlying cost pressures, those funds simply mask future increases and leave the co-op less prepared for emergencies or system failures.
These issues also highlight broader concerns about leadership. CEO Chris Hansen maintains a permanent residence in Denver while renting locally, and he holds multiple affiliations with statewide and national energy organizations whose priorities may not align with the needs of rural and local La Plata and Archuleta counties. Members deserve clarity about how these outside networks influence LPEA’s direction.
Before LPEA proceeds with condemnations, large capital projects, or further financial commitments, it must answer three simple questions:
- Will this improve reliability and affordability for local ratepayers?
- Are board members acting solely in the best interest of the communities they serve?
- Do the projects support local energy producers so that jobs and tax revenue stay in our counties?
Until LPEA provides transparent, data-driven answers, public skepticism is both reasonable and responsible.
Kelly Hegarty
Durango
