I am pleased to endorse Naomi Riess for Colorado House District 59.

I have known of Naomi for some time, and during this election cycle I have had the opportunity to meet with her and discuss the challenges facing our schools, families, businesses, and communities in Southwest Colorado.

Much of our conversation focused on the quality of our schools, the need for fair and responsible education funding, and the importance of allowing local school boards and parents to have a meaningful voice. Too often, mandates are handed down from Denver without enough consideration for the needs and costs faced by rural communities.

Naomi also understands that strong schools depend on a healthy local economy, good jobs, affordable housing, reasonable taxes, safe communities, and families who can afford to remain in Southwest Colorado. She supports protecting opportunities for girls in school athletics and respecting the role of parents in education.

My wife and I have lived in Pagosa Springs since 1987. We raised four children here, all of whom attended Archuleta School District schools, and three now live here with families of their own. The future of our schools and community is deeply important to me.

Naomi listens, understands rural Colorado, and will bring common sense, integrity, and strong local representation to the State Capitol. I encourage the voters of House District 59 to support Naomi Riess.

Butch Mackey
Pagosa School Board Director, District 5

Title provided for identification purposes only. This endorsement reflects my personal views and does not represent an official position of the Archuleta School District Board of Education.