Editor:

This is about the 100-foot setback placed on the upper Dolores River Valley. Dolores, Mancos and Cortez are exempt. Is it correct for Montezuma County to selectively regulate the Dolores River Valley and not the rest of the county like the Mancos River Valley or the town of Dolores? Dolores is in the Dolores River Valley and definitely in the flood plain.

In argument the planning committee raises concerns on preserving our water quality. So tell me the common sense in allowing gravel pits in the flood plain of the river. How about concerns regarding Dolores septic ponds, are they not susceptible to a 100-year flood? Other concerns were raised about the destruction our structures would cause the town of Dolores. More, likely, the cottonwoods would cause more destruction than any deck we may build. I believe the rains that would cause a 100-year flood would leach heavy metals and other contaminants from mines and ponds from Rico. This would affect Dolores and Cortez water quality more than our decks by the river.

The county commissioners have over-regulated us in the Dolores River Valley even to the point of telling us how long someone can stay on our own property. Another prime example is the TDR system, which if you are not familiar with is definitely worth looking into. Not one has been bought or sold since it was implemented 10 years ago.

My point is there are more important issues the county commissioners should address instead of telling us what size deck we can have or how long someone can stay on our property.

Charles and Julieta Unsworth

Dolores