I am thrilled to see Mark Walser, candidate for La Plata Electric Association District 2, stepping up to serve our community once again. Walser has been a friend for years, and I have witnessed his leadership in Durango’s music and education communities. He aims to push LPEA to provide clean, local and affordable electricity, as well as high quality broadband access to LPEA members. Other local electric co-ops in our region have found ways to provide cleaner local energy at lower costs, and I know Walser’s vision, commitment and negotiation skills will help LPEA to find the right path for our community.
Electricity production remains the greatest source of carbon emissions in the U.S. LPEA is required by contract to purchase 95% of its electricity from Tri-State. Yet Tri-State refuses to change the 5% limit on generating more local renewable energy. Meanwhile, Tri-State’s rates keep rising, while the cost of renewable energy continues to decrease.
As an LPEA member, I want to see a holistic approach with our energy system. As a resident of La Plata County, I also care greatly about the impact of climate change on our local communities, forests and streams, as well as our community health.
Your vote counts. Please take the time to mail in your ballot for LPEA board members by June 16. Vote for cleaner, lower-cost energy by electing Mark Walser to the LPEA board. You can make a difference.
Lauren Berutich
Durango
