The three Dillon Town Council members subject to the March 11 recall characterize the concern that they are threatening the entire aesthetic of the town of Dillon. In pursuit of higher revenues, more business ventures, and increased foot traffic, they have failed to recognize Dillon’s greatest asset: our views of the Gore Range and the scenery that the Dillon Reservoir affords.  

I have consistently advocated beauty over massive construction projects. I do not seek to deny Dillon the tax base and revenues it needs to maintain its viability as a town, but there are sensible ways to achieve this goal and there are ruinous plans which represent a type of overreach and overbuild that will destroy the town’s ambiance.

Pundits have proclaimed themselves against this recall vote saying that it sets a bad precedent and that the three members have committed no malfeasance and broken no laws. Technically, this may be so. However, these three have broken faith with the town’s residents. Claiming that their processes have been transparent is only a bit disingenuous. Had these council members been truly mindful of their constituents, they would have published myriad articles and held public forums that could have informed and brought public comment and, perhaps, approval.  These would have trumped hiding behind DURA, the Dillon Urban Renewal Authority, which has failed to achieve what truly needs renewal, the town’s actual core that is a sad scene, indeed.

Breach of faith isn’t exactly a violation of law. But ignoring the voters who overturned the council’s vote on the Branded Residence Project is a violation of the voters’ fundamental desire to retain Dillon’s character.  What Dillon now needs are council members who will represent them and their wishes, be responsible in ways that will secure economic growth while, at the same time, preserve Dillon’s natural beauty.