What makes a community ‘sustainable’?

Dear Editor:

Now that the questions Ben Hogan raised about the Orton Family Foundation and the Heart and Soul movement have been "answered" by Alexis Halbert and John Barstow, I suppose I should feel "all better" now, but I do not. Something about "free money" from non-profit organizations and committees with paid personnel soliciting dialogue about what's important to a community is a bit scary to me since most of us are capable of making that known by voting.

Maybe it was the "embracing growth and change" statement on the Orton website but it got me browsing through their "issues." I would like to encourage everyone to check the Orton website and do their own research. Will our towns become "sustainable" by mandating walking, green energy, population control, participating in "social equity," ban the growth or sale of certain foods as unhealthy?

The "unique" character of the North Fork has changed a great deal in the 11 years that I have been here, and not necessarily for the better. While it is wonderful to have access to locally grown foods and promote various arts, culture and tourism, the local job market and economy make enjoying those things unaffordable for many area residents. Since those of us who are fortunate enough to be working will not have time to attend these meetings, I hope that the folks who do will take time to ponder consequences of any courses of action suggested. Speaking for myself, I hope any plans and dialogue during the first comment period will include strong support for our local cattle ranches, our coal mines and their support services and honor the labors and spirit of the people who built this area in the first place. We need to send that many again during the second comment period. Thank you for paying attention to our quality of life here in Delta County.

Jakki Taylor

Paonia

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