Editor’s note: This is the last batch of election letters running between now and Election Day.

Vote for leaders and policies to protect LGBTQIA+ community

As a leader in Garfield County’s LGBTQIA+ community, I want to stress the importance of this year’s local elections. The decisions we make now will shape the future for our community in meaningful ways, especially regarding our rights and access to public resources.

The most critical vote this year is for Garfield County Commissioner. Right-wing activists are pushing to restrict LGBTQIA+ inclusive materials in our libraries, and the current commissioners are supporting them. Our libraries are more than just buildings—they’re safe spaces where LGBTQIA+ individuals can access resources and information without fear. That’s why I’m endorsing Caitlin Carey and Steven Arauza for Commissioner. Both have actively engaged with the LGBTQIA+ community, attended our events, and shown unwavering support, even when it came with backlash.

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I also endorse Cole Buerger for the State House and Elizabeth Velasco for the State Senate. Both are members of the LGBTQIA+ community who have consistently stood up for us. Cole even provided personal support when I was targeted by hate groups, and Elizabeth has fought against book bans that threaten our rights. They understand our struggles and will work to protect us in statewide policy decisions.

For the State School Board, I support Ellen McHugh Angeles. Her opponent’s anti-LGBTQIA+ platform poses a real danger to our trans and queer students. Ellen, in contrast, has dedicated her career to supporting inclusive education for all children, ensuring our students are safe and respected in their schools.

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Additionally, I support yes votes on Amendment 79 (Legal Access to Abortion) and Amendment J (Gay Marriage), and a no vote on Amendment 80 (“School Choice”), which diverts resources away from public schools and into private institutions that often discriminate against LGBTQIA+ families.

These votes matter. Please vote for leaders and policies that will protect and uplift our LGBTQIA+ community in Garfield County.

Ashley Stahl, New Castle

‘Vote for eagles, not dinosaurs’

Garfield County voters have the opportunity to bring fresh ideas and significant change to government by choosing new leadership on the Board of County Commissioners.

With two of the board’s three seats up for election, there’s no better time to consider new voices, leaders who welcome ideas and input from every corner of our county. 

Caitlin Carey is my choice for the District 2 seat soon to be vacated by John Martin (who’s ending his seventh term, after nearly 28 years in office). Carey, who holds a law degree, is smart as a whip, asks challenging questions, and knows the county’s issues and opportunities through her work as an elected member of the New Castle Town Council and her extensive meetings with Garco voters.

Her opponent, Perry Will, a longtime Colorado Parks & Wildlife employee and then an appointed legislator, is respected and has made many friends in Denver – but he represents more of the same old thinking that’s dominated Garfield County decisions for decades. In fact, some of his votes in Denver have shown an alarming lack of judgment. In this era of post-Jan. 6 truth denial, for instance, he voted against bolstering voting rights and against accepting the validity of the 2020 presidential election (HR22-1004).

Only two women have served as Garfield County commissioners: Marian Smith and Tresi Houpt. Both women brought new perspectives, challenged the status quo when it needed challenging, and prepared our county for a changing future. Caitlin Carey is the same kind of straight-talking, clear-thinking leader; it’s time for us to bring her on board.

Steven Arauza is another straight shooter who deserves your vote. Over his decade of cleaning up decommissioned oil and gas wells, he has made our county safer, as opposed to our current commissioners who’ve voted to use our tax dollars to support that industry. Arauza has also been committed to making housing more affordable for working families.

Please consider the future of our county, not the past, by voting for these two working parents. Vote for eagles, not dinosaurs.

Russ Arensman, Glenwood Springs

2A will help ‘business thrive and community prosper’

The Glenwood Springs Chamber is dedicated to advocating for both business and the overall well-being of the community. Our board of directors supports Ballot Measure 2A because it aligns with our mission of helping business thrive and community prosper. 2A proposes a one penny sales tax dedicated to maintaining and improving the City’s aging streets and underlying infrastructure. These funds will be strictly allocated for infrastructure projects, with an annual independent audit ensuring transparency.

This isn’t a new tax — it’s an extension and increase of the current half-penny sales tax, set to expire in 2026. Measure 2A adds ¼ penny for streets and ¼ penny for underground utilities, totaling one penny. While the existing tax has supported the community for nearly two decades, rising costs in materials, labor, and construction have rendered it inadequate to cover necessary projects. 

The revenue from this one penny tax will be exclusively dedicated to maintaining and upgrading existing streets, as well as the underlying water, sewer, and utility systems, ensuring long-term sustainability for another 20 years. By allowing for proactive maintenance and improvements, 2A reduces the need for costly emergency repairs and minimizes disruption. 

The sales tax distributes the cost among residents and visitors, reducing the financial burden on local households and businesses. Importantly, Glenwood Springs’ overall sales tax rate will remain comparable to other mountain communities. 

Community on the Move, an ad hoc committee of engaged business and community leaders, has worked on a variety of initiatives since the 1980s to secure a brighter future for Glenwood Springs. Since January, they’ve focused on understanding the City’s needs and residents’ priorities regarding streets and infrastructure leading to the recommendation of 2A.

At the Glenwood Springs Chamber, we are all about solutions. Supporting Ballot Measure 2A is about investing in the future and long-term sustainability of our community. To learn more, please visit pavingglenwoodforward.com

Nicole Christianson, Glenwood Springs

Garfield County voters should invest in ‘a younger generation of leaders’

Once again, our three aging county commissioners have a budget deficit ($12.5 million according to P.I. article 10/9/24) as oil and gas revenues continue to decline. Given that our three county commissioners are earning between $104,567 and $109,374 each, one would hope they would have had the foresight to diversify away from a major budget line item of oil and gas income which has been declining since 2003. Now the local nonprofits that address the issues of Garfield County may see grants cut 10% due to the shortsightedness of the current commissioners.

Incumbent Mike Samson (age 70) and Republican candidate Perry Will (age 69) have voting records that do not reflect what is important to the diverse residents of Garfield County (affordable housing, traffic congestion, women’s health, nonpartisan library trustees, protecting our air, land and water) (see voting record at https://www.garcodems.org/elections#candidates) 

The first time I heard Mike Samson speak was at the 2021 Garfield County Humanitarian Awards ceremony where the county recognized outstanding citizens. Mr. Samson rambled on for 10 minutes about how great his wife was who was not even a nominee. Not once did Mr. Samson acknowledge the important work done by the nominees. We deserve better Garfield County from our county commissioners.

It is time for Garfield County residents to invest in a younger generation of leaders that understand the issues facing the county and have the energy and tenacity to put solutions in place. Caitlin Carey and Steven Arauza are today’s leaders that will move Garfield County into a prosperous, inclusive community. Please vote for both candidates by November 5th and invest in the future of Garfield County.

Mary Wiener, Glenwood Springs

Carey, Arauza ready to ‘get things done for all of us’

Congratulations to the residents of 3-Mile Mobile Home Park who convinced the county commissioners to opt in to Colorado’s Proposition 123 Affordable Housing Fund – just days before we missed the Nov. 1 deadline for 2025/2026 participation.

3-Mile residents can now apply for Prop 123 funds to help them purchase their mobile home park. As a longtime 3-Mile resident told the commissioners, projects like this are essential to keeping workers in the valley and preserving our diversity.

We all pay into the Prop 123 fund through our state income taxes. All six municipalities in the county had already opted in. Why did it take the commissioners almost two years before opting in? 

Listen to their Oct. 21 meeting to hear how begrudgingly the commissioners agree to opt in to apply for these free funds for affordable housing.

Mike Samson has sat on the board for 16 years already. Over and over we’ve seen him drop the ball on opportunities to engage with others and tackle issues from affordable housing to traffic to wildfire safety.

Isn’t it time to elect commissioners who will roll up their sleeves and actively seek out opportunities, rather than let them slip by?

Steven Arauza and Caitlin Carey have the energy and the passion to tackle the challenges we’re grappling with here in Garfield County and get things done for all of us. Please vote.

Marc Bruell, Carbondale

Samson a strong advocate for ‘constituents and community’

In the past two decades of my professional career, I have had the honor of working with a number of local governments throughout Western Colorado. The Garfield County Commissioners are among the best I have encountered across the region. 

The Garfield Commissioners, in particular, Commissioner Mike Samson, have been leaders across the state in their advocacy for their constituents and community. Experience is a great factor in their many successes. Garfield County voters decided many years ago that they were not in favor of term limits for the office of county commissioner. Voters made that choice and have since made the wise choice to elect commissioners they felt have served them well. 

The experience and wisdom of the Garfield County Commissioners has put the county in an enviable position in comparison to many counties across the state. The county has continued to provide critical services without having to ask for tax increases. They have utilized funding from industry development for critical infrastructure, advocated for small business support mechanisms and worked to create a business-friendly environment. All this in the face of waning industry and ever-changing dynamics. 

Mike Samson has been a tireless advocate for Garfield County. I have attended many meetings with him that resulted in Garfield County receiving its due from state and federal funds, water availability for agriculture, recreation and municipal use. He led the way for entire the state in the establishment of Federal Mineral Lease Districts (FMLD) which has served Garfield County tremendously by providing millions of dollars to local community needs throughout the region. 

Voters have a clear choice once again, experience, knowledge and compassion are clearly strong attributes of Mike Samson. Voters would be wise to re-elect Mike Samson as County Commissioner once again. At the end of the day, the voters know who will represent them best and, in my opinion, Mike Samson is that person.

Bonnie Peterson, New Castle

Trump a ‘modern-day Nero’

Mark Twain famously observed that “A lie can  travel half-way around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.”

Former president Trump tells some stretchers – President Obama was born in Kenya, Trump won the popular vote in 2016, the 2020 election was stolen, etc. None of these accusations are backed up by a shred of evidence.  But this doesn’t seem to bother his supporters, many of whom are Evangelical Christians and must surely be familiar with God’s position on bearing false witness.

Trump’s running mate JD Vance as much as conceded that Trump’s and his accusations that Haitians in Springfield Ohio were eating their neighbors’ pets was made up. He said he needed “to create stories so that the American media pays attention.”

Ohio Republican governor Mike DeWine called the Haitian accusations “a piece of garbage.”

Now Trump tells hurricane survivors in North Carolina that Vice-president Harris raided the FEMA disaster relief fund to house illegal immigrants. 

These fabrications have real-world consequences. In Springfield, schools hunker down as law enforcement deploys dogs and state troopers in response to bomb threats.

And desperate and confused hurricane victims don’t apply  for benefits to which they’re entitled, because Trump told them Kamala gave all the money away. 

So that’s the way it is. I don’t get it. Do you? Please explain to me how this can possibly be OK.

What happened to this country that half the voters will vote to re-elect a modern-day Nero, a vengeful, profane, crotch-grabbing, Putin-loving, convicted felon? In this greatest of all great nations. I must be dreaming. 

We reap what we sow. When the election dust settles, you and I might not be pleased. But I’m confident  America will get exactly what she deserves. 

Ed Colby, New Castle

Thoughts about the economy and consumer price impacts

Corporate profits reached an all-time high in 2024, US stock markets in October reached record highs, the US is a net energy exporter (including the importation of crude oil and the exportation of refined petroleum products along with natural gas in the form of Liquified Natural Gas). The US is energy independent albeit affected by global markets and corporate decisions.

As recently reported “The American Economy is the Envy of the World” (The Economist October 19, 2024). Record corporate profits expectedly affect prices consumers pay, a primary cause of higher inflation. Shrink-flation (same price for less product) to recent record high stock markets are caused by actions of the free market, private sector…corporations rather than government actions or officials. 

In our region especially Glenwood Springs, monopoly-by-default having just one supermarket in a town also affects what shoppers pay. Fuel prices are affected by the global oil markets, corporate greed and “isolation/rumored price collusion” in our local markets.

The president and federal government from agencies to elected representatives may have less control of our economy through policies, tax rates, structure and interest rates than the private, free market. Tariffs on foreign goods play a large part in what consumers pay. Increased tariffs are passed along to consumers who must pay more for goods with foreign content. Achieving 100% US manufactured goods is admirable although achievability and immediacy would be a real challenge and may not be practical.

Those with money (or in need of more) can make even more money — from corporations, executives, billionaires…and even hucksters like the one selling gold sneakers, Bibles, trading cards, commemorative coins, $100,000 watches, etcetera (probably not made in America). Wanting to build a Trump Tower in Russia? The “dancing” profanity-laced word salad candidate wanting to represent and lead our country? In it for him? Or for you and I and us?

Sean Jeung, Glenwood Springs

Library board member proud to ‘serve everybody in our community’

I have served one full term as Vice Chair of the Garfield County Public Library District Library Board. In that time I have seen Garfield County Libraries go from a decimated staff following the oil and gas bust of 2019 to the award winning and more stable district of today. All of that is due to broad community support and a deep belief in the value of our services. 

I was a practicing librarian in both special and public libraries for 35 years. I’ve learned that governance is not the same as operations. It takes time to learn the intricacies of public finance and the interplay of policy and public controversy. 

At our annual retreat we evaluate our own performance as individual board members and as a body. We review statewide standards for library performance, striving always for excellence. Good people can disagree with each other but I am proud of the ability of our board to thoughtfully consider other viewpoints and to hold to our fundamental mission and purpose: to serve everybody in our community.

I’ve enjoyed my first term and eagerly look forward to fulfilling a second one. Please feel free to contact me for further information about my views and background. Thank you for your interest and support. jdurrance@gcpld.org (representing Carbondale).

Jocelyn Durrance, Carbondale

Vote 2A for ‘reasonable, dedicated and reliable’ infrastructure funding

It makes sense, common sense to vote YES for Question 2A.

Why? There are several reasons.

First, the current tax of $.005 per dollar does not cover the current costs of construction. The increase for street surface improvement, maintenance and repair is not double but rather $.0075 per dollar. The other $.0025 will be used for necessary water, sewer and utility replacement under those streets. 

Second, the street tax is paid (more than 50%) by our 1.2 million visitors and others living outside the city. Thus others pay for $1.7 million of our sewer and water improvements — costs which would otherwise be in your utility bills thus reducing rate increases in the future. 

Third, there is no other source of funds to fix our streets. There is no budgeting maneuver that can pay the funds needed for our streets and infrastructure. DDA and A&I funds cannot be used per your past votes. The city’s reserves are just that — reserves for emergencies. Glenwood Springs has been funding its streets with this tax for over 30 years, and with rising costs, 2A is the only realistic solution. Without it, there would be no dedicated funding for these critical repairs and projects and their funding would have to compete with general fund expenses for necessary essential services such as police, fire, and parks.

Fourth, 2A funds will be spent on streets and infrastructure projects within city limits. Council just reaffirmed that none of these funds will be spent on South Bridge. The funds will be subject to an annual independent audit so residents can know that their tax dollars are being used in the way they were approved.

Finally, 2A provides the only reasonable, dedicated and reliable source of funding to maintain and improve Glenwood Springs’ streets and its water and sewer systems. Instead of temporary fixes, this measure ensures we address long-term infrastructure needs to keep our city functioning efficiently. Without this funding, critical repairs would be delayed, leading to higher costs in the future. 

So vote yes on 2A. It makes common “cents” for all of us.

Charlie Willman, Glenwood Springs

Don’t let panic cast your vote

Campaign rhetoric typically reaches a fever pitch toward the end of election cycles and this one is certainly no exception. Locally, however, the Democrats’ rhetoric has become far too hyperbolic to ignore.

Their party jettisons all credibility by dehumanizing everyday Americans who only wish to return our country to a place of prominence and leadership. Stereotyping and demeaning decent people who disagree with their agenda is intolerant and contrary to diversity of thought. The constant efforts by the Garfield County Democrats to label Republicans (who are likely their neighbors and co-workers) as “the other” and “MAGA” is wearing thin.  The media environment is designed to divide people, but here on the Western Slope, we are issues voters. We lean into our principles and listen to our own voices.

Our candidates for CD-3, the state legislature and Garfield County Commissioner are courteous and accomplished people offering unifying and enduring ways to preserve that which makes Garfield County great, while advancing prosperity for everyone; not just select demographics. Our opponents are essentially saying “vote against Republicans” without using their candidates’ names. I’ll proudly state the names of our individual candidates here: Jeff Hurd for CD3, Marc Catlin for SD5, Caleb Waller for HD 57 and Mike Samson and Perry Will for Garfield County Commissioner. Our candidates want to serve; they are not placeholders for their statewide or national political party looking for an entry-level job in politics.

Many of you have already voted. However, if you are still on the fence, don’t let the onslaught of extreme ads do your thinking for you. Leave the Federal issues to the Federal candidates. Our candidates know what works and what doesn’t. They have raised their families here and care deeply about the present and future of Western Colorado.

The election is almost over. Stay on course with your beliefs and core values; turn the TV down for a few days. Apathy is a threat to democracy, not Republicans. Deciding that the rhetoric is deafening is understandable, but leaving your ballot on the kitchen table is not. Please voice your concerns through your vote. 

Gregg P. Rippy, Chair of the Garfield County Republicans

Arauza ‘hopes to serve everyone’

Fear … the most weaponized four letter word.

Have you met Steven Arauza? I am privileged to say I know him, and his lovely family. Despite what some poorly printed flyers claim, he is not someone to fear. Quite the opposite. He is someone to admire. 

I admire his ability to; greet everyone with warmth and a smile, to find common ground even with those believe differently from him. I admire his desire to serve. He is someone that hopes to serve everyone as our next Country Commissioner. 

Yet some want you to fear him, and call him “extreme,” because he chooses to be open and understanding of all parts of our community. They wish to vilify him for raising his children to be equally open and welcoming. He has been called “radical” for wanting to leave decisions like which books children should read in the hands of their parents instead of politicians. For wanting equity in our county. 

Equity is not pie. No one will suddenly get less just because others get some. Let’s be aware of how our fears can be used against us. Let us instead choose someone reasonable, and steady, and with fresh, positive energy, who will work for all of us. Let’s elect Steven Arauza.

Trinity Stebleton, Silt