La Plata County commissioners are asking voters to approve a 1% sales tax increase this November to fund basic services (Herald, Aug. 27). While I understand the need to maintain roads, law enforcement and emergency response, the commissioners are overlooking the deeper issue: Their own policies have helped drive away one of our county’s most reliable sources of revenue.
For decades, La Plata County depended on oil and gas to sustain its budget. Yet instead of supporting responsible production in the San Juan Basin, a basin with proven longevity and prudent operators, local and state officials have layered on restrictive land-use codes, permitting delays, and tighter regulations. The result has been a 77% decline in oil and gas property tax revenues over the past 15 years. That decline is not only about “the market,” but also about policy decisions that discourage operators from investing here.
Now, rather than addressing those restrictions or encouraging projects that could responsibly extend local energy production, the county wants taxpayers to make up the difference with a permanent sales tax hike. Supporting responsible local energy production could not only stabilize county revenues, but also lower utility costs for residents by keeping more affordable, locally produced power on the grid.
Instead of turning to voters’ wallets, a short-term fix at best, commissioners should revisit the policies that are shrinking our tax base. With better energy policy, budget efficiency and diversification, the county could provide stable funding without continually raising the cost of living for families and small businesses.
Kelly Hegarty
Durango
