If you want to see what responsible, forward-thinking leadership really looks like, just look at what’s already been accomplished under the current LPEA board.
While federal fire mitigation efforts are being cut, LPEA has expanded ours. Using grid mapping and drones, they’ve launched proactive teams to create defensible spaces, increased tree trimming in high-risk areas, and hosted two emergency simulations focused on crisis coordination during wildfires.
LPEA has taken bold steps to improve our regional energy independence – tapping into our 300+ days of sunshine and vast geothermal potential. New energy contracts are projected to cut the average La Plata County resident’s electric bill by 10%. Even better, these changes create an opportunity for us to sell back unused energy, injecting money back into our local economy.
As a small-business owner who has personally benefited from the mentorship of current board member John Witchel – a true champion for entrepreneurship and regional resilience – I’ve seen firsthand his commitment to both safety and economic development.
Now, more than ever, our region needs stability, not upheaval. Let’s not create chaos in our energy future just for the sake of change. Instead, let’s stay the course and continue building on this momentum.
I urge you to reelect John Witchel (District 4), Joe Lewandowski (District 3), and Holly Metzler (District 1) to the LPEA board. Let’s keep moving forward – together
Elizabeth Philbrick
Hesperus
