photo by K. Lundberg

On November 2, 2021 in a field near the Larimer County Health Department about 2,000 citizens gathered to protest the mandates from the health department. Many asked the director of the department to step down, not only because of the mandates, but also because of his chilling request to other Larimer County officials to remove a truck trailer with the words “Resist the Fascists” painted on its side. The trailer was on the private property where the protest was held.

@steveglassphotographer

I spoke briefly at the rally, when the snow was flying!

Following the rally four state legislators who represent parts of Larimer County sent a letter to the county commissioners asking that the director be removed from his position.

The letter reads:

November 1, 2021

Larimer County Commissioners:

By now, you’ve certainly seen the email from Tom Gonzales, the County’s Public Health Director. And I trust you’ve seen the legitimate debate that has ensued.

“It is clear that Mr. Gonzales attempted to use his government connections to quash the free speech rights of a local citizen. He clearly doesn’t understand the Constitutional limits that are placed on the government in order to protect the Natural Rights of the Citizens.

It is clear that Mr. Gonzales asked you to compromise your oath of office in order to bend the rules to remove the message on the trailer.

It is clear that Mr. Gonzales is unsuited for this office if he is so intimidated by the peaceful free speech of a private citizen.

The undersigned members of the Colorado General Assembly urge the County Commissioners to direct the Board of Health to immediately terminate Tom Gonzales as the Public Health Director. Larimer County deserves a thoughtful Director of Public Health that understands that the Rights of the Citizens do not end when his feelings are offended.

Senator Rob Woodward                     Minority Leader Hugh McKean

Senator Barb Kirkmeyer                     Representative Mike Lynch

The people of Larimer County have spoken loudly and clearly. It is now time for the county officials to take notice and follow the the will of We the People. It is time for We the People to continue to “…peaceably… assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”