Leavitt: Support for Sarah Smith Hymes in Eagle County

I am writing in support of Sarah Smith Hymes for Eagle County Commissioner.

With so many ongoing issues and challenges before us, the choice boils down to one word: experience. She brings the kind of vision and experience we need at this time. She has been in public service for many years through her service on the boards for the Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, the Avon Town Council (serving as mayor), affordable housing, the Climate Action Committee, and more. Her engagement has shown her commitment to the betterment, sustainability, and quality of life we so value.

She has worked closely with the key players, both locally and regionally, and knows that the solutions to our county’s challenges will require creativity and collaboration with all of the stakeholders, including our valley’s largest employers, in order to affect positive change and progress.

Our current county commissioners have done an admirable job in addressing the many growth-related issues in our valley, especially regarding housing, transportation, protecting our wildlife and environment, water quality, and more. However, the ongoing challenge of staffing our businesses, schools, and health care systems continues to be directly impacted by the lack of viable housing options. Sarah has passionately dealt with these issues in real time and continues to do so.

She recognizes the value and contributions of those who have brought us to where we are today, but she is also committed to creating an affordable path for more recent arrivals who want to become part of our community.

Let’s maintain this hard earned momentum by putting Sarah Smith Hymes on the Eagle County Board of Commissioners. She’s already been working for years toward building a better future for the county, and she’ll be ready to continue that mission on day one.

Howard Leavitt

Avon