The SDN deadline for Letters to the Editor was April 1st, unbeknownst to me.  Of course, I sent my letter in on April 2nd.  Following is my letter in support of this stalwart councilman and friend. Though I’m probably singing to the choir, I wanted to get these words out to the world.

Re-Elect Rossi!

Dave Rossi’s long history of serving on Breckenridge boards and commissions ranging from Open Space to the Breckenridge Resort Chamber has given him a deep awareness of the range of social and economic issues that affect our town. Dave used that wealth of knowledge during his previous term to be a thoughtful, integrity-driven voice on Council. We still need that voice.

It’s important for a community with Breckenridge’s economic tensions and growing diversity to have leaders with broad vision.  Dave has the intellectual depth to grasp the complexities of municipal issues – and also a broad worldview that allows him to listen openly to conflicting views. Dave is capable of collaborating respectfully and effectively with individuals possessing vastly differing positions from his own in order to work towards resolution and common ground.  Crucially, he works hard to represent the people who contribute greatly to Breckenridge’s health as a community, yet struggle economically to live here.  Dave has shown that he carefully considers how Council decisions affect the fiscal, social, and environmental health of all income levels of this community.

Most important, I believe, Dave is not afraid to ask tough, targeted, and critical questions to players whose power exceeds his own.  I believe this is an essential trait for all local decision makers. Long into the foreseeable future, Breckenridge will likely be negotiating with big corporate players that have strong interests in leveraging our recreational and real estate assets for their own gain.  Our town leaders need to possess the vision, integrity, and resilience to ensure that other’s profits are in balance with our own community’s needs. They will need to continue to ask hard questions – and occasionally stand up to people waving big, impressive swords. Dave has shown that he is willing to put himself out there for slicing in his commitment to ensure fiscal and ethical accountability from all players.  We continue to need that now.

Rossi ‘s got my trust -and vote – on April 6th!  Ensure that Breckenridge continues to have a strong, authentic, voice of integrity on Council. Vote for Dave!