Controlling weeds - some citizens express concerns

Lopez claims he wants to have better enforcement of the weeds ordinance. While this sounds good in theory, some residents are concerned that it may result in even more people resorting to dangerous herbicides such as Round-Up and other toxic chemicals which may seep into the groundwater and negatively impact public health. Alternatively, some argue that natural weed abatement tools, such as propane weed torches may pose significant fire risks in a dry and windy climate such as that in Socorro. While some would agree that a well manicured lawn or rock garden is pleasant to the eye, many wonder whether a few weeds - a derogatory word for naturally occuring plants - would be preferable to contaminating our scarce and critically important ground water resources. As they say, one person's weed is another's plant. Well, except for goat-heads of course!

Safety, fiscal issues

Lopez also mentions "speeding" as an issue he wishes to address if elected. Also of note is his desire to place streetlights in unlit areas of Socorro, also a safety measure. Finally, Lopez mentions a desire for City Council to do better financial planning, in order to build reserves for future expenses and infrastructure purchases.

Editorial analysis

We are intrigued by Lopez's desire for recycling, something Socorro sorely needs if it wants to bring in well educated people and high tech industries; it's also simply the right thing to do for the environment. However, we have reservations about the weed ordinance and would need to have more questions answered. We like his idea of a police commission. All in all, we believe he is a strong candidate with many good ideas, however we do have reservations about the weed ordinance, as stated. Despite these minor reservations, Socorro News is endorsing Richard A. Lopez in Ward 2, for Socorro City Council. El Defensor Chieftain has a good write-up on the candidates and we encourage our readers to check it out.