This election is a hard one to call. First off, there’s the issue of the agricultural extension service. None of us want to see this very valuable service go away; no one wants anything to happen to the 4-H. It’s probably one of the most important projects available in our area for our rural — and urban — youth .
We feel as though we’ve been backed into a corner — we can’t stand the idea that the program is in jeopardy and yet we think the county should have found some way to live up to the commitment of funding it.
It makes the property owner’s choice in casting a ballot in Tuesday’s election that much more difficult. Voting against the 4-H and extension would be like voting against mom and apple pie.
But some farmers are concerned with what they see as programs that might have an impact on their land, such as a trail through the bosque that would bring people who would litter, set fires and otherwise harm our land. Other folks believe the paths would be a wonderful way to utilize this beautiful area and make sure that children learn about nature.
Some worry about political concerns while others simply don’t believe that this is the time to ask drought-striken farmers and other property-owners to raise their own taxes.
In the end, it’s each of us to our own conscience, to our own sense of what the greater need of our community is. Whatever you decide, be a part of the process. Vote. Attend meetings. Put in our two-cents worth. That’s how democracy works.
The Valencia County News-Bulletin is a locally owned and operated community newspaper, dedicated to serving Valencia County since 1910 through the highest journalistic and professional business standards. The VCNB is published weekly on Thursdays, including holidays both in print and online.
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April 19, 2024
