Why didn’t the Montezuma County commissioners ask me about the sale of my land to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument before they fired off a letter opposing the sale to various Colorado state officials? They didn’t even extend the courtesy of sending me a copy of their letter.
For the last 20 years I have purchased property from six separate families to assemble this unique canyonland property. My goal has always been to protect and preserve these fragile and archaeologically rich lands. I am now 80 and want to make sure these lands are in like-minded hands. My decision to offer the property to Canyons of the Ancients was not made lightly. After many conversations with family and friends, the choice became obvious.
As part of Canyons of the Ancients the public, including both local residents and visitors, will be able to explore, discover and enjoy pristine wooded areas, a year-round stream, bird watching, scenic vistas, and archaeological treasures. In private hands, only the owner would have this privilege.
The property has been professionally appraised to establish the fair market value. Can the commissioners match the BLM-Canyons of the Ancients offer? Can they provide names of like-minded buyers who will ensure the natural and cultural resources on the property are preserved and made available to the public?
Do others see the hypocrisy here? The commissioners say they staunchly support private property rights, even as they interfere with my right to sell to the buyer of my choice and without informing me of their action — or giving me an opportunity to be heard.
Bud Poe
Cortez