Taos County: The Renewal of Democracy

Yesterday the County Commissioners over-ruled its own P&Zers and rejected the Family Dollar Store proposed for downtown El Prado, just north of Elevations Espresso. I only stayed for the first hour of the hearing at the SRO meeting and didn’t get to hear Commissioner Tom Blankenhorn’s fine speech, according to those who remained. Apparently Blankenhorn mentioned his “duty” to those who elected him i.e. his constituents, a rather novel idea today among elected officials.

Regardless, Blankenhorn’s motion to overrule the planning commission and Gabe Romero’s second preceded the unanimous vote to reject the metal box and merchandise operation. But the commissioners did more than just stand up to Corporate America, they reinforced the notion of democracy and gave the public some much needed hope in an otherwise corporatized America.

By recognizing the spirit of local culture as an intangible and important asset, more important than revenue and gross receipts taxes, the county and the public took a look back at the importance of history and forward at the values that make greater Taos a worthwhile place in which to live. Furthermore, the commission recognized the hard work of organizers and folks who took the time to show up and speak or just sit and listen to the discussions. I am reminded of Hegel’s concept of history, as the spirit of art, religion, and philosophy work their way through consciousness and reach equilibrium in public acknowledgment.

We, in the community, haven’t had such reason to celebrate since Mayor Bobby Duran broke the tie to reject the proposed Super Walmart back in 2003. Duran, like Blankenhorn, listened to his constituents and reflected the spirit of democracy, the best in representative government at that moment. Give kudos to the commissioners and the activists, who got the public to turn out and protect the local culture against exploitation by shortsighted and callous entrepreneurs.

Over at the Kit Carson Coop, members voted, as they had in Questa last week, for the status quo: borrow and spend. We congratulate the winners yesterday, incumbent trustees David Torres and Manuel Medina as well as CEO Reyes, whose policies have been rubberstamped by the majority of members, who showed up. The Coop is intent on helping itself maintain market share and continue policies that serve, not the members, but Reyes and the Trustees. As utility bills continue to increase, those of us who disagree with current Coop policies must work “behind the meter” to reduce our dependence on coal and on the financiers who fancy our pocketbooks to support their dreams.

Taos Friction reminds readers that the next battle concerns the Town of Taos attempt to annex six miles of highway through El Prado to the airport. The same folks, who wanted to bring a Family Dollar to El Prado, are among the boosters who are seeking more GRT at the airport and aim, ultimately to annex businesses along Highway 64 to the airport. We don’t know when District Court Judge Jeff McElroy will hear the case but we urge the public to pay attention.

Contrary to claims made about economic development and the suckers who side with the Mayor and council, the town cares more about enriching its patrons and politicians than the larger community. Airport investments amount to silly attempts to satisfy boosters and private interests with taxpayer money. You can call it annexation but the real name of the shoestring leap to the northwest should be called “exploitation.” Similarly, the dirty deal proposed between the Coop and the Town at the Command Center is a feast for the good old boys, i.e. those who would prey upon ratepayers and taxpayers.

But we have hope because the county has thrown itself into the battle against annexation—exploitation–and refused to join, so far, in the Command Center follies. Viva los commissioners.