After 36 years serving as mayor of the Town of Pagosa Springs, Ross Aragon announced last week that he won’t run again in the upcoming April election.
Three council seats are also up for election. Those district seats are currently held by Kathie Lattin, Darrel Cotton and Don Volger.
Candidates must petition for their name to be on the town ballot by gathering signatures of registered voters within the town boundaries. Potential candidates can pick up packets on Feb. 14 from Town Clerk April Hessman, and begin circulating petitions on Feb. 17. Petitions must be returned by March 7.
Town elected officials are not paid for their service.
On the county level, every elected position will be on the ballot this year with the exception of county commissioner offices currently held by Clifford Lucero and Steve Wadley.
Those up for election include county clerk and recorder, assessor, treasurer, sheriff, surveyor, coroner and commissioner for District 3.
There are multiple ways to get your name on the county ballot. Check with Archuleta County Clerk June Madrid for details.
These elected county officials are all paid for their service per state statute.
Even though the county election is held in November, you should make your move soon to throw your hat in the ring, due to the various requirements for running for county office.
There comes a time for responsible citizens to stop complaining about the condition of local government and take matters into their own hands.
If you think you have the qualifications to serve as a public official, now is the time to step up to the plate and make the commitment to make a difference.
Do you have what it takes?
Do you have the desire to serve our community? Do you have the time to attend the required meetings? Are you willing to make tough and sometimes unpopular decisions? Do you enjoy studying reports, reviewing lists of bills and reading board packets? Do you have the ability to be transparent and run the public’s business in the light of day? The list of skills necessary to hold public office and affect change is endless.
While many find it rewarding to serve as an elected official, the one thing that you are guaranteed in return for serving is plenty of criticism. You can’t please everyone. Nor should you try.
Is it your time to step up and make a difference?
Terri Lynn Oldham House
