Each week we highlight some of the most insightful, passionate and witty comments shared on Facebook in response to stories in The Durango Herald.
This week, readers weighed in on La Plata County and Durango’s agreement to partner on the site for the new managed camp, the leaked draft decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and the fire chief’s request for $133,000 to design a joint fire and police building.
We enjoy readers’ input and reactions to local stories: People can weigh in via our Facebook page, at the bottom of local news stories on our website at www.durangoherald.com or by writing a letter to the editor.
Here are a few comments that stood out this week:
“So... did you get it independently tested for radioactivity yet? Or are you just putting homeless people out of sight, out of mind in a location that will cause harm to their health?” – Natán Rebelde
“Safer for the Purple Hills residents. Not safer for the tourists who walk from the hotels to downtown Durango, or people and dogs at the dog park or, even the homeless who tend to wander out in streets. Unfortunately, many homeless people have mental health issues and I see this location as putting many people at risk, including the homeless, but a great location to stop tourists to ask or rob them of their money and without even leaving their camp. Not to mention everyone passing through Durango getting a glimpse of your homeless and their tents. Couldn’t have picked a worse spot.” – Tracy Thrailkill
“Put up a 6 foot fence along the highway for privacy & safety. Evergreens could be planted between the highway & fence to help reduce noise & improve it visually. Please address where parking is for the dog park.” – Caroni Adams
“Where is the outrage over the fact that the DRAFT document written in February was given to Politico? This incident has certainly taken the spotlight off of Biden’s poor performance when it comes to border security, inflation and statesmanship. AOC, the Squad and Democrat leadership is already calling for an end to the filibuster and court packing. Can’t help but wonder if the theft of the document had more to do with the mid-terms than creating an uproar. I agree with JJ Wilson that “my body, my choice” is not exclusive to pro-choice advocates. By the way, there is nothing in the Constitutional that guarantees the right to an abortion. It is and has always been a states rights issue.” – Dennis Pierce
“The right to privacy and hundreds of other rights that currently exist are also not enumerated rights. But the constitution says that just because a right is not enumerated does not mean it doesn’t exist. There is nothing in the constitution that says a male is allowed to impregnate a woman. So a law could be created to prevent it. Do you get it? Forced birth is wrong. Government regulation of uteri is wrong. Women are not brood stock for the state.” – Jordan Maynard
“Next thing you know civil rights will go back to states too. What’s wrong with that? If you don’t know the answer to your question, perhaps try learning about why Federal laws governing civil (human) rights and our bodies is so important. State’s rights in these matters is a cover for taking away women's choice and reinstating Jim Crow, among other anti-democratic actions.” – David Kozak
“Some will intertwine such things as basic civil liberties and Jim Crow with the repeal of Roe v Wade. This is nothing more than hyperbole. Abortion is not guaranteed in the constitution but basic civil liberties are. By reverting abortion law back to the states we actually have a real voice.” – Ron Harris
“The thing I don’t understand is how this facility can be modified to allow fire trucks to have ingress and egress. I am not saying that it can’t be done, just saying that I don’t see it. I am very much in favor of increased fire and police protection around here. I just don’t understand how this facility will work.” – Richard Ruth
“This will be a win-win for the community. I hope it moves forward and soon. I encourage any doubters to go visit the river city hall fire station and see how 8 dedicated firefighters can live in an over crowded, cramped area for 48 hour shifts. Not healthy!” – Bill Koons