What are the biggest challenges facing Mancos, and how do you think the town board can play a role in addressing them?I would think the biggest challenge in Mancos is economic development. Of course, more business would bring more jobs to the area, and in turn bring the opportunity of investing in infrastructure, public services, and local events. The difficulty is in maintaining the inherent charm, beauty, and community that exists and is vital to what Mancos is. The town board can be the resource to gather the needs and wishes of the community and consider them to keep intact the direction our town wants to explore.
How can the town government play a role in economic development, and what kind of development would you like to see?I see the town board being the representative of the people of Mancos. Also, the town board must also be able to inform the people of the concerns placed before the town. With all of the possibilities of development, the town board must make considerations that reflect the needs and wishes of the people. Personally, I would like to see an increase in small businesses. I think Mancos could flourish by attracting small manufacturing companies as we have property available and an available workforce in place.
What is your position on livestock within city limits?I fully support the ability to feed yourself, your family, and at times your community through farming, gardening, raising livestock, hunting and fishing. Obviously, this can get out of hand if a person cannot effectively manage their operation. I think it reasonable to keep animals in town as long as they are well maintained, do not pose a risk to others, and can provide to the inherent character of our town.
What is the best thing about Mancos and the worst thing about Mancos?Mancos is a wonderful place, basically a hidden gem of a community. When my family was looking for a place to call home, Mancos had everything we wanted – good schools, kind people, clean neighborhoods, and access to some of the most beautiful areas in Colorado. I am hard-pressed to find the worst thing about Mancos, but one thing that catches my eye is litter. I know it is an inevitable occurrence, but I believe our community is strong and active enough to keep our garbage from spilling out of our yards, lining our riverbanks, and blowing across our streets.
Which construction projects along U.S. Highway 160 should be the highest priority?I think the highest priorities on the 160 would be those centered on Monte Street and any of the projects that allow for safe access/travel across the highway. Monte ought to be a priority as there is a high flow of traffic at that intersection and is in desperate need of ingress and egress solutions. Logging trucks travel that intersection heavily as does regular community traffic. Incoming and outgoing highway traffic often fail to yield to traffic turning onto Monte. Also, many of our families cross that intersection on foot to get to school or work. For same reason, any project that allows ease and safety of travel across 160 would be a priority.