MONTE VISTA – Rio Grande County Commissioner Scott Deacon has enjoyed his time as commissioner. Deacon is a Monte Vista native and has worn many hats over the years, but being a commissioner has been one of his favorite positions, because he loves his community and the people in it.  

Deacon is running for commissioner again, because he enjoys serving his community. 

“I have worked with businesses. I have been involved with six counties, there is a lot of things that go on there. I watch the budget heavily, because we need to spend money and make sure it comes back to us, and for the people! That’s my biggest thing, I have had several people call me, the ‘commissioner for the people.’ I care about people, that is the most rewarding part of the job for me. I do everything I do for the people. I want to continue this, and hope to be re-elected, so that I can continue to serve and do what I love to do, be there for the people,” Deacon said.  

Deacon spoke about what it has been like to be the commissioner and the different aspects of his job. 

“Rio Grande County owns the Del Norte airport, and they were looking at getting jet fuel. Being a part of it, I was instrumental in all the avenues of getting jet fuel. The airport had never made money before, we had to pay out for it. We opened the jet fuel a year ago in July. This past July, we sold 4,000 gallons of jet fuel. We had a lot of naysayers when we started to do it because it cost a lot, but we are making it back. It is awesome. Last year, we built eight hangars out there. That’s one of the biggest things I’ve worked on,” Deacon said.  

Deacon also spoke about what he has done for businesses. 

“Nothing had been done to the McMullen building out at the Stampede grounds. I looked into parks and rec, and they have different kinds of money available for that kind of stuff. The commissioners allowed me to take the spearhead on the project. It hadn’t been brought up to code since it was built. Well, we brought it up to code. We put all new GFI’s in, we put all new LED lights in, big fans. We built 20 feet on to the end of it. It did cost $269,000 but it helped so much for the fair, they have jackpots that the fair board does. We have had like 800 people come from three states to that. Everyone is just so happy with everything that has been done out there. There are a few more things we need to do, but it’s going to get done. We have between 400 and 500 animals for the fair. It’s just an awesome deal. I was excited to be a part of expanding and helping with that building,” Deacon said.  

Deacon said he enjoyed every aspect of being the commissioner and wants everyone to know that he wants to be the commissioner for another term. 

“I want everyone to know that I am truly here for them. If they have concerns, questions, anything at all I can help them with, please tell them to call me. I am available to speak with anyone, and I will do my best to help them, or lead them in the right direction. I love people, that’s what it is all about for me. I love people, I enjoy helping and I want to be a voice and help everyone. Those are the things that I stand for, and will always stand for, being a voice for the people I love,” Deacon said.  

Before being a commissioner, Deacon worked for San Luis Valley REC for 35 years, he has been involved with the Monte Vista Fire Department and firefighters for 43 years, and he is a member of the fire board. He is a member of the Hoodlums Car Club, and Brothers Keepers Motorcycle Club.  

“No matter what happens, I am always positive and will remain positive and remain a helper in my community either way,” Deacon said.