Livelihood, Infrastructure and Economy

San Miguel County has a long history of interdependent communities situated in high mountain towns, mesa ramparts and river canyons. The topography and rugged nature of our region requires cooperation for success. Through the ever changing nature of time, members of this county have found common ground in order to thrive. Thriving communities are built on the foundation of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If this oppurtunity is accessible to all, our county will find plentitude. In this way, individual civil liberty is sustained and the well being of each member of the community is inextricably hitched to the other. As county commissioner, Galena is dedicated to sound policy and programs that support plenitude over plunder.

Livelihood

Livelihood or way of life is nourished by food, water, shelter, agency and gratitude. A sustainable community needs healthy food, clean water and access to housing. This brings about the conditions for individuals to feel empowered and set roots in the community and shape a quality of life that brings about gratitutde. As our county grows and adapts, access to housing, food and water has to be addressed in a fashion that allows for community members to find a niche and thrive.    

Infrastructure

Waste management, roads, bridges, public service & rescue agencies, medical care, energy production & power delivery, transportation, education, vocational training, child care & family support, water storage & delivery, agriculture & community irrigation and all civic services are passed down from one generation to the next. These are the pillars of a community. They must be maintained and restored in order for our county to thrive. Investing in infrastructure builds quality of life and bolsters our regional economy.   

Economy

The economic and ecological history of our region tells many a story of boom and bust. This cycle is hard to buffer and balance. Strong and resilient communities seek plenitude over plunder. Sustainble economies, much like a sustainble ecosystem, exist when all members of the community are thriving. In this way, it is incumbent upon each member of the community to reinvest in the pillars that support it. Our county is at its best when our economy is productive and our policy is proactive to build towards a sustainable future. These two components must exist in harmony. The productivity of the economy must not overun the pillars of community that support it. Conversly, complex policy and ill suited investement must not wilt the harvest of our regional economy.