To the Citizens of Hotchkiss, and my Friends and Families in the Surrounding Communities…

This is one of the hardest posts I have ever written.

For years, I have chosen to remain silent publicly because I believed concerns should first be addressed through the proper channels. As a police officer, I understand that my profession requires me to hold myself to a higher standard, and I have always tried to handle difficult situations professionally, respectfully, and with integrity.

Today, I believe the people of Hotchkiss deserve transparency.

Over the past several years, multiple employees have raised serious concerns regarding the leadership and direction of our town. Some of those concerns are now receiving attention through the appropriate processes. I will not discuss confidential matters or ongoing investigations, and I will continue to respect those processes.

What I can share are the public statements that our elected officials have chosen to make themselves.

The screenshots attached to this post are public posts made by our mayor. They are available for anyone to read. I am not asking anyone to accept my opinion. I encourage every person to review them and decide for themselves whether they reflect the professionalism, judgment, respect, and leadership they expect from someone entrusted to represent the Town of Hotchkiss.

Leadership isn’t positional. Leadership is behavioral.

A title alone does not make someone a leader. Character does.

I love Hotchkiss.

I grew up here. My family is here. The citizens of this town and the surrounding communities have shown me incredible kindness and support throughout my career. This community deserves leaders who reflect the same values that make this place special.

This is not about political parties.

This is not about personal attacks.

This is about accountability.

This is about the future of our town and the example we set for the next generation.

I’m a certified FTO and one of the lessons I teach every officer I train is this:

“Following the rules and doing what’s right are not always the same thing.”

Sometimes following the rules mean they get a ticket or a summons but it doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for the situation. And every situation is different.

Sometimes doing what’s right requires having difficult conversations.

Today, I believe this is one of those conversations.

The last but certainly it least rule number 8…. Be someone worth following, because your actions and character train others without saying a word. And that’s why I am doing this even if it gets me fired….

My hope is that every citizen becomes informed, asks questions, and remains engaged in the future of our community. Regardless of where each of us ultimately stands, our town is strongest when its citizens participate respectfully, hold their leaders accountable, and work together toward a better future.

Hotchkiss deserves leadership that earns the trust and confidence of the people it serves.

This town doesn’t belong to elected officials.

It belongs to its citizens.

Mayor Patricia Medina, we the citizens of Hotchkiss respectfully request you resign from your position immediately.

All those in favor please sign this petition with me.

 

for more pictures and information please refer to my Facebook page.