Opinion

Few topics are more yawn-inducing than budgets, but hardly any are more important for government at any level. So, have an extra cup of coffee and read on. Durango City Council is well into the...

This summer, Durango sustained three events that underscore the critical importance of swift and effective fire protection services: the 1111 Camino del Rio blaze, the tragic fire at Tercero...

In the middle of my seventh year on Durango City Council, I find that my attention has turned to strategic planning around long-term civic needs. This effort must occur even as the council and...

Recent City Council discussions have alternated between setting broad goals and addressing narrower issues, including climate change and sustainability, and housing and homelessness. At a recent...

My father used to say, “Someday, you will deal with budgets.” His career with Illinois Bell Telephone Co. spanned more than four decades, beginning out of high school as a messenger and culminating...

On May 17, I had the privilege of representing the city of Durango at the Chamber of Commerce forum on “The State of the Community.” I explained that the state of the city is evolving and building...

I am honored to serve Durango again as mayor for the coming year, and I look forward to taking this monthly opportunity to share my perspective on events and issues that affect our community. This...

Boarding my flight, a man with kind eyes settled in next to me and we struck up a friendly conversation. I learned he immigrated to the U.S. from India 20 years ago. When I mentioned my mayoral...

Next month, city voters will receive a ballot in the mail in advance of the April 4 election day, providing the opportunity to vote for three of five City Council candidates, as well as to cast a...

In our polarized nation, people are angry and frustrated; they feel disrespected and ignored. In contrast, our local city government is non-partisan, with our collective mission and council goals...