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OPINION: Coming Together, for a Change |
Nikki Taylor | 1/27/12
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The letters and public comments have been wonderful! Eloquent, informative and much needed as this county faces the inevitable: Change.
We seem quite fragmented; lines that divide. however, could well become threads which unite. A sustainably-minded community would do just that; unite instead of divide.
 The letters expressing the need for Walmart in order to improve quality of life are valid. They express the need for greater variety at cheaper prices referencing the high costs of our local large grocery chain. The expense of driving to Durango coupled with chances taken in unreliable vehicles increases. Many work multiple jobs as low wages don’t meet the high cost of local goods and services; Walmart is seen as offering both jobs and cheaper goods.
Some state that Walmart is simply a matter of convenience in our rural surroundings. Our community leaders argue that a big box will bring in needed tax dollars while redirecting exiting revenue.
Equally compelling are the letters in sheer rejection of a big box in Archuleta County.
Communities with longevity in mind bridge gaps. Perhaps some prioritizing would be beneficial. Consider the amount of local government operation(s) for such a small community. How many occupy Town or County posts while professing to want smaller federal government, greater efficiency and more transparency? How about seeing that also happen here?
Two struggling local governments, each with associated costs and sidekicks, governing about 12,000 permanent residents, is a bit much. Consider the fiscal savings and overall benefits of being singularly managed should Town and County unite their operations! It has been done in other counties nationwide for benefit of the entire community, with positive outcome.
Here, it’s been mentioned though never acknowledged that indeed, it could happen — just like Wal-Mart! How many said that would never happen?
Our local governments should [and can] consolidate in order to reduce spending, increase efficiency, and redirect needed revenue. One governing force fairly represents reality; we geographically are not divided and town/county dealings often intertwine. No suggestion for massive lay-offs, just reference to a plan of slow emergence. All elected positions should become salaried requiring a high level of expertise and accountability in leadership. Consolidation would provide for that. It would also eliminate the need for endless paid consultants, an obvious waste of money.
It might allow for completed infrastructure. Bike paths, a recycling center, designated trash cans county wide, decent road maintenance, expanded public transportation, sidewalks with effective crosswalks, attractive downtown lighting, etc; all would speak volumes to outsiders, much louder than the impending Hwy 160 road construction and infamous Walmart congestion. People have been coming to our community for a long time to get away from the likes of urban living, bringing their dollars with them. One letter questions if they will still come as our sprawl continues.
With saved moneys we could expand our public transportation county-wide. That system could also offer rides to Durango for restaurant and shopping needs. Those who don’t want the undesirable big-box influences in our community may willingly subsidize, and visitors might utilize a well managed transport system. Urban offerings are close. We can keep the uniqueness of this community alive that people have come to enjoy for decades, while increasing accessibility locally and to the big-box conveniences in Durango.
The nature of rural living typically is not “convenient.” However, the character of sustainable community is finding ways to share and support.
Local small businesses do try to keep prices low; one letter exemplified that. Downtown grocery, landlords, health care providers, soaking and recreational facilities, etc, many do all that they can. Several entities; churches, businesses, and individuals generously give back. It’s disappointing that our large grocery chain hasn’t sufficiently met community needs, especially after boarding up downtown. As well, that local individual and government spending has often left small business pockets unnecessarily. Perhaps local businesses would thrive if support remained loyal, ultimately creating a positive cycle. Sustainable communities invest in themselves first, it’s their priority.
Wonder if loyalty will happen when Walmart comes to town, and small businesses are boarding up.
It is about Change; quite inevitable! Let’s look at the many possibilities of promoting change that would positively impact for decades to come. It requires skillful leaders with open minds and no personal agendas, and a committed constituency who insist on the collective regardless of economic status, race, religion or political influence! Let’s consider some truly progressive change in Archuleta County... for a change! |
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