Newman will run for his third term

Pitkin County Commissioner George Newman announced Sunday that he plans to run for a third and final term on the board.

“Newman believes the protection of our public lands, our water, our wildlife, our environment is what makes our county unique and economically sustainable,” according to an emailed statement. “He says his theme, ‘Preserve, Conserve, Collaborate,’ is as relevant today as it was when he first ran for office.”

Newman is most proud of his work with neighborhood caucuses preserving the county’s “rural character,” protecting wildlife and natural resources though open space programs, helping reauthorize the Healthy Community Fund and supporting the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport’s updated master plan, according to the statement.

Newman also is proud of his ability to work with groups and elected officials to address issues such as affordable housing, health care, transportation and energy alternatives, the statement says.

“Leadership, dedication, fiscal responsibility, a belief in collaborative problem-solving and building consensus is what I have brought to the table and will continue to bring on behalf of the citizens of Pitkin County,” Newman said in the statement.

If he wins, Newman’s third four-year term on the board will be his last because of term limits on Pitkin County commissioners.