The primary responsibility of local government is to protect the rights of the people. That is the right to own property, the right to produce and trade, and the right to be protected by the rule of law.
Our government officials are PUBLIC SERVANTS that means they are here to SERVE the PUBLIC. They are not in this position to RULE. That is known as serfdom and we are not serfs.
In simple laymen’s terms, Fiscal Responsibility means spending money responsibly. Our county government is spending money on extravagant special-interest programs such as green energy agendas and early childhood education that were not approved with the consent of the people. In fact, early childhood education programs were voted down by the people previously.
I intend to delve into the financial situation at the County. I believe we need to get back to the basics providing the greater good for the entire population of Eagle County. This would mean realigning budgets and stopping tax increases while making special interest groups accountable, and possibly exploring the idea of lowering taxes.
Infrastructure
While building is expansive in our Valley, infrastructure should be a priority. A County master plan should be in place for the public to review. And speaking of infrastructure, when Glenwood Canyon is shut down, Cottonwood Pass is the next best path West. However, in the past, we have been routed four hours out of the way to get to the next Town, Glenwood Springs. A safe passage over Cottonwood pass should be a priority. Our Commissioners promised constituents, last summer, the Pass would be a priority. As of today, the Eagle side of the Pass is still dangerous.
I plan to bring common sense and logical thinking back to local government. I will encourage the public to re-engage in our local government and take a more active role.
Ballots
All ballot measures presented to the public should be written clearly and not have to be researched extensively to be understood. If a voter has to call a host of individuals to decipher, that measure should not be on the ballot. Yes means Yes (for the issue). No Means No (against the issue).
County Budget
The budget should be easily accessible for residents to access and search for information.
Election Integrity
There are many areas of government that need to be reviewed and restructured and this is definitely one. This needs to be addressed both locally and nationally.
Government Overreach
When Commissioners were asked for information to substantiate questionable decisions, their responses were dismissive and condescending to say the least. Our government knew best! However, governments should govern by the consent of the people with the basis for their decisions being clear and transparent to the Public.
Term Limits
Term limits for all elected Eagle County positions should be available on the Eagle County Website for residents to review.
Eagle County Is My Home
Growing up in Eagle County, I learned to appreciate open space and the great outdoors. I thrived in this environment skiing in the winters, hunting and fishing during the summers. I enjoyed a small community atmosphere where we all knew and supported one another.
Having participated in Boy Scouts Troop 228 and achieving Eagle Scout rank made me realize, later in life, just how great a place is Vail Valley. The outpouring of support and love the members of this County brought, helping us reach beyond our local offerings while expanding our cultural experience, was invaluable.
After graduating from high school, I attended college travelling and working extensively throughout the United States and the world. Through these experiences, I grew as a person finding love for individual freedom. It also made me long for home, fully understanding and appreciating the diversity and opportunities that make Eagle County a true gem of the world.
Connecting with Local Government
When dealing with our local government, I have always been able to connect. Whether that be law enforcement officers, mayors, or county officials. Lately, unfortunately, it seems as if the community connection, trust of government leaders, is fading. It is time to bring fresh embers to warm this County again by re-establishing individual freedom; restoring power back to the families – our strongest core; and making elected officials who are public servants, accountable to all!
My Desire for Us All
I desire to stand up for what is right and just, and help restore that trust in our community. As your new county commissioner and public servant, I will be a representative of the community as well as a leader who LISTENS intently. I promise you this, I have NO special or hidden agendas, just a strong desire to bring balance to our politics and keep the local government focused on what’s best for the entire County not just a few select groups.
