Republicans have taken over the federal government. Locally, Republicans are also trying for any offices they can, understanding that local government – from school boards to the county, from libraries to the energy co-op – offers the gateway to yet more control.
Local LPEA candidates are well known to the local, extremely conservative GOP. Dave Peters was, in fact, chair of the La Plata GOP through 2024. His LPEA bio proclaims that, “as an owner of solar panels (sic) I have had first had (sic) experience on the chalanges (sic) homeowners (sic) face with everything from equipment selection to permitting with LPEA.” At the very least, I worry about Peters’ attention to detail and ability to understand $200 million energy contract buyouts.
Lyle McKnight ran for county commissioner in 2016, against cleaner energy advocate Gwen Lachelt. He lost. McKnight still believes there is no such thing as climate change, and thinks burning more fossil fuels is a good thing. He calls himself an advocate for transparency, yet sits on the board (Durango Fire & Rescue) ranked worst for transparency in the region.
Brad Blake is also running, but at least he has a familiarity with residential solar projects through one of his companies. However, a quick scan of his social media accounts pulls up serious allegations against wind mills, solar panels and electric vehicles.
There are a lot of Republican leaders making drastic economic choices right now. Let’s keep that scary recklessness out of LPEA.
Anne Markward
Durango
