With a year under my belt as El Paso County Commissioner serving District 2, I enter 2009 with clear direction and drive to accomplish several goals. Here is a glimpse of a few items on my desk.A fresh analysis of our land use code is of paramount importance. In my opinion, there exists a philosophy that we anticipate every problem “what if” and “but maybe.” A policy or code is then written to correct or prevent it. This is a disastrous mentality on the part of government and has created a monstrous code.We must have guidelines to protect our water supply, many aspects of our land use and other considerations. But, we must balance these with the protection of private property rights. An environment that is conducive to business growth and prosperity must also be fostered. Often, that means hands off and get out of the way. Additionally, we must streamline the development services department application process so costly delays do not hamper new businesses and continued business growth, or those who want to build a shed on their property and find themselves bogged down in permit purgatory.I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to dig out those portions of our code that either need rewritten or eliminated. This process will take time, but must occur to make El Paso County fertile ground for personal and business prosperity.If you live in an area where new development has taken place and suddenly find yourself fishing in your own backyard, you’ve thought about drainage! We need to address “downstream” issues created when new developments with many impervious surfaces damage the property of others. How much improvement should be required? How far downstream? Who is at fault when that dry valley becomes the latest fly-fishing hot spot? These are critical questions to which answers must be provided before approvals are granted.In addition, I remain committed to ensuring the sheriff’s office and related public safety services are prioritized in the budget. I am working on funding, density and water issues; restructuring our Resource Development Association, which is critically important to our fair; and finding sustainable options for parks, 4-H programming, D.A.R.E., humane society services; as well as looking at the viability of privatizing some government services to get the most value out of tax dollars.Roads are always on top of the list. We are working to improve maintenance and making sure some capital projects are completed. One example is the completion of Eastonville Road near Falcon High School.I strive to respond respectfully and quickly when you contact me. The volume of contact is high, so I encourage folks to be pests! If you haven’t heard back from me, it is not on purpose – so try again!Also, please join me Saturday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. at the Stetson Hills Police Station, 4110 Tutt Blvd., for a town hall meeting. Bring your questions and concerns and we will discuss county issues. I will invite some of our legislators to join us and address concerns at the state level.Many challenges and promises will keep me busy in 2009. I look forward to working with the folks in District 2 on a variety of issues. My door is always open.Amy LathenEl Paso County Commissioner, District 2
