Dear Editor,

So, what makes this little town of Nederland so special, anyway? Is it the colorful mining history from 150 years ago? Or the community of unique mountain people who know how to live simply, work hard, and treasure each other as family?

Or is it the surrounding wilderness, hills, and backdrop of the Continental Divide peaks? Or the sound of the rushing water in Middle Boulder Creek? The quiet of the mornings? Getting lost on the forest paths?

Wild birds and all kinds of animals abound. Maybe it’s the July wildflowers, Aspen trees golden in the fall, the pristine blanket of snow in winter. Skiing? Biking? Hiking?

No wonder people move here and don’t want to leave. But some of the candidates up for a vote soon talk of priorities of having some 1st Street changes to new buildings, sophisticated, flashy new businesses. Even a large hotel and apartments. This could mean demolishing some of our historic buildings and quaint houses on 1st Street, and erasing the charm and character that we have identified as Nederland.

Development can bring losses: our small local businesses crowded out, more congestion, noise and problems that come with it. And people leaving, as happens in so many towns like this that become over- developed for tourists, and end up looking and being like cities below.

We have enough, here, to make life good. We have a rock shop, library, churches, schools, and a bank. a hardware store that has everything, grocery stores, book store, clothing stores, post office, unique restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, a music store, parks, movies. a top-notch skateboard park. We have veterinarians, doctors. Shoe repair, car repair, barbers and hair cutters. Even a few pot shops. We have our beloved newspaper. We have our sparkling reservoir at the edge of town. We even have a carousel to make us happy!!

In the upcoming election, pay attention to what the candidates determine to focus on. Sense out their attitudes. Talk with them, ask questions. Don’t make the mistake of voting for candidates who don’t understand the special values of the people who make and enjoy Nederland. It’s likely that greedy developers could be let loose to make money off our town and turn it into just another tourist trap. The special Nederland feel would be long forgotten.

Let’s keep the magic we have made. It’s paradise up here!

Betsy Buck

Nederland