Who is running in Your District?
Three seats up for grabs on the Board of El Paso County Commissioners this primary in June.
District 2
District 3
District 4
As a 501(c)3 non-profit, TOSC cannot endorse candidates. We can support and endorse initiatives that are mission related. But we can ask candidates questions about parks, trails and open spaces and share those answers with you. We emailed all candidates running for El Paso County Commissioner and asked them to answer the following 3 questions:
1. Do EPC parks, trails, nature centers, open spaces contribute to the health and well-
being of EPC residents?
- Bernard Byers: Absolutely! Parks, public spaces, open trails and nature center are essential to the health
and well being of El Paso County residents.Accordion Content
- David Leinweber: Absolutely, County parks, trails, nature centers, and open spaces are vital for the health and well-being of EPC residents. As a conservative outdoorsman and Christian, I believe that enjoying and preserving God’s creation is essential. These natural spaces offer opportunities for physical activity, mental rejuvenation, and family bonding, all of which align with our values of stewardship and gratitude for the Lord’s gifts. Being outdoors helps us connect with nature, reduce stress, and appreciate the beauty of the world God has made, fostering a deeper sense
of community and well-being. Supporting and utilizing these spaces is a testament to our commitment to health, family, and faith. - Bill Wysong: Absolutely, EPC parks, trails, nature centers, and open spaces play a crucial role in the health and well-being of our residents. These spaces offer numerous benefits including:
● Physical Health: Providing areas for exercise, sports, and recreational activities that
are essential for maintaining physical fitness and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
● Mental Health: Offering serene environments that help reduce stress, anxiety, and
depression. Nature exposure has been shown to improve mood and overall mental
health.
● Community Engagement: Serving as social hubs where residents can gather,
socialize, and participate in community events, thereby fostering a sense of belonging
and community spirit.
- Cory Applegate: To a certain extent yes. Some citizens that enjoy being outdoors like having the trails and open spaces. This is essential for tourism in the area.
- Dr. Detra Duncan: Yes.
- Raymond Garcia: Absolutely! My native American heritage runs deeply in my veins. I feel a very strong connection to nature and wish to preserve it.
2. Would you support inviting Trust for Public Land to perform an analysis of our county
park assets and their value to county residents? This would be done at no cost to the
county.
- Bernard Byers: I have no concerns and would welcome Trust for Public Land to assess values for the county.
- David Leinweber: Absolutely. I support inviting the Trust for Public Land to analyze our county park assets and their value to residents, especially since it’s at no cost to the county. As a conservative who values transparency and efficient government, I welcome expert reviews that can enhance our services. The Trust for Public Land’s expertise and experience with communities nationwide make them a valuable resource for elevating our outdoor spaces, ensuring they continue to benefit our health, well-being, and quality of life.
- Bill Wysong: I fully support inviting the Trust for Public Land to perform an analysis of our county park assets and their value to county residents. This initiative would provide valuable insights into how these spaces are utilized and appreciated by the community. Importantly, as you mentioned, this analysis would be conducted at no cost to the county, making it a cost-effective way to gather essential data.
- Cory Applegate: Yes. As long as there is no cost to El Paso County.
- Dr. Detra Duncan: Yes.
- Raymond Garcia: YES! At no cost to EPC, there is absolutely no reason not to.
3. If that analysis indicates a public willingness to increase support for county parks, trails and open spaces, would you allow voters the opportunity to make that decision?
- Bernard Beyers: I 100% believe that the voters should be making the final decision when it comes to an increase of support if the assessment from the Trust for Public Land comes back recommending it.
- David Leinweber: Yes, I would support allowing voters to decide. As a conservative who values small government and is cautious about new taxes, I believe it’s essential to let residents have a voice in shaping their community. If the Trust for Public Land analysis shows public support for increased investment in parks, trails, and open spaces, it’s only right to give citizens the opportunity to vote on it. This ensures transparency and respects the will of the people, allowing them to directly influence the future of our community while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
- Bill Wysong: If the analysis indicates a public willingness to increase support for our county parks, trails, and open spaces, I would absolutely support giving voters the opportunity to make that decision. Allowing residents to vote on such matters ensures that any measures taken reflect the collective will of the community. Empowering voters to decide on the allocation of resources for public spaces aligns with the principles of democratic governance and ensures transparency and accountability in our decision-making processes.
- Cory Applegate: Yes.
- Dr. Detra Duncan: Yes.
- Raymond Garcia: YES! Voters should always be given the opportunity to make decisions.