Menconi the best choice

Dear Editor:At last week’s first county commissioner candidate forum, sponsored by the Homestead community, I had a good opportunity to see the five candidates in action. It was pretty clear to me that Commissioner Arn Menconi emerged as the clear leader.Driving home, I thought about what a difference four years can make. When Arn Menconi was first elected four years ago, the general feeling was that he was a well-intentioned, possibly naive rookie. Anyone who watched and listened that evening would have seen a man who has clearly and comfortably grown into the job.I have had the opportunity to get to know Arn over the past four years. Also, I have had the opportunity to work closely with him on the Board of the Vail Valley Chamber and Tourism Bureau. I have learned to appreciate Arn’s interest and understanding of our business community’s needs and challenges. I believe Arn not only understands the intricate weaving of our quality of life with the day-to-day of large and small businesses, but he sees the importance of a long-term sustainable business environment. Arn truly understands that long-term sustainability requires a strong integration of our economy, our natural environment and our community values. Yes, we have immediate and demanding issues in our county, but today’s decisions will have lasting impacts. Arn has the vision and the experience to make good decisions for today and for the future.As the candidate forum made clear, issues facing our towns and county are becoming increasingly complex. Arn’s love of Eagle County and daily commitment to make it a great place for all of us to live comes through loud and clear. To meet the demands of the future, we need leadership that is innovative, imaginative and inclusive. I believe that the future of Eagle County will be best served by re-electing Commissioner Arn Menconi.Stan CopeEdwards