The West End of Montrose County is at the epicenter of the proposed Dolores River National Monument through Montrose County. We are a Colorado Just Transition Tier One Coal affected community.
Gov. Jared Polis and the General Assembly signed House Bill 19-1314, concerning a Just Transition from Coal-based Electrical Energy economy, that made a “moral commitment to assist the workers and communities that have powered Colorado for generations” by supporting a “just and inclusive transition” away from coal. The action plan was established in 2020 to direct state agencies on transition community priorities and includes:
“Community Strategy 3: Empower communities with resources to drive their own economic transitions. Most effective and long-lasting economic development strategies usually come from within communities themselves, reflecting their own priorities and building on existing strengths.”
This proposed Dolores River National Monument is not just and inclusive of my community’s wishes, and not locally driven. Testament to that is our adamant opposition to this and the resolutions by the towns of Nucla, Naturita, Norwood and Montrose County.
The proponents of this Dolores River National Monument have been made aware that they are in violation of the Colorado Just Transition Action Plan and the directives of Polis, the Legislature and H.B. 19-131, and still choose to pursue this presidential proclamation of the Dolores River National Monument.
When will Colorado honor its commitment, stand up for my community and shut down this monument proposal? Our transition is our position.
Aimee Tooker
Nucla
