La Veta elects Doug Brgoch as mayor

 LA VETA­– Tuesday, La Veta voters returned their town governance to familiar territory when they elected Doug Brgoch as Mayor. Brgoch, who grew up in the La Veta area, received 250 votes compared to 52 for his opponent, Trustee Logan Taggart. He previously served 17 years as mayor, leaving the board in 2006. As water commissioner, Brgoch has a keen interest in water rights, and La Veta can put his knowledge to use right away in making its new Mexican Ditch water right more serviceable. There are 599 registered voters in La Veta; 303 ballots were cast on Tuesday. Not every ballot contained a vote for every position or issue, and one ballot only contained a vote on the sales tax question. The ballot question on increasing the local sales tax by one-half percent passed on a vote of 195 to 99. The revenues from the sales tax increase, up to $50,000, will fund the Francisco Fort Museum. If the revenues exceed $50,000, the excess will be allocated to streets, alleys and sidewalk improvements. Trustee Shane Clouse, who appeared on the ballot unopposed, received 218 votes. Trustee Dale Davis, who was also unopposed, received 174 votes. The town had five openings on the board and only two candidates. After the new board is seated, it will have the option of taking letters of interest for the vacant seats, appointing people to fill them, or holding a special election. One of the most crucial matters facing the new board will be deciding how profoundly marijuana establishments will be allowed to affect the complexion of the town, which relies to a great extent on its wholesome charm to attract tourist dollars.