Once Again, the Need to Set the Record Straight

Montrose residents deserve the truth, not twisted narratives from a certain “publisher”. His recent article misrepresents my statements and overlooks key facts about our school district's challenges. his tactic is to attack the messenger rather than actual content. His approach is to rant against whoever disagrees with either himself or the usual suspects he chooses to defend regardless of what the facts show. For the past year and a half, I have raised my voice for accountability in Montrose, not because I want to stir the pot, but because it is a necessary component of a thriving Republic to hold our government officials' feet to the fire. Government should be accountable to "We the People".

The “Disgusting” Behavior

He claims I “lectured the audience” without context. I did call out the actions of those who displayed “disgusting” and blatant disrespect shown toward the representative, Mr. Carlson from Miller, Farmer, and Carlson law. That behavior was indeed unacceptable and disrespectful. Montrose values civil discourse and ignoring this context paints a false picture. Like many, I exercise my right to speak out, as anyone is entitled.  But I also listen respectfully to opposing views in my attempt to understand their position. My issue was with the childish behavior of supposed adults, most of whom are teaching our children, not the point of view they hold. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, even when rooted in misinformation.

I had a great conversation with someone Wednesday morning who is on the polar opposite end of the political spectrum. We both listened to each other's point of view, found some common ground, and agreed to disagree on other matters. Then we agreed to sit down again at a later date for another chat, which I am very much looking forward to. This is the type of discussion that needs to occur more often in Montrose.

Clarifying the Montezuma (Cortez) School District Data

He accuses me of "fuzzy math" concerning test score improvement for Montezuma (Cortez) schools. The 30-position jump in rankings, where the district went from a ranking of 176 out of 178, to 136.  This occurred for the 2022-2023 school year, after a year and a half of guidance from the Miller Law Firm to help the board make sound decisions that benefited the student’s education.  The increase in improvement in Cortez was enough to take the district from facing state intervention.  Comparisons to Montrose's position are irrelevant here. The point stands that Miller's firm provided sound guidance leading to real progress. Results speak louder than spin.

Hypocrisy in Action

He dismisses my concerns about Superintendent Carrie Stephenson's pinch of job security as mere speculation yet hypocritically asserts "she has no worries". If speculation is the issue, he should look in the mirror. But let's not let logic get in the way of an attack piece, like Rahm Emanuel said, "never let a good crisis go to waste." And let's be clear, for him this is an existential threat to the powerbase that has run roughshod over Montrose for the past eight years. The "axis" of power in Montrose politics is now being disrupted, and he does not like it. People of Montrose are tired of having their core values attacked and the reason we are seeing change at the ballot box.

His Outsider Perspective and Selective Blindness

While he did live in Montrose for a time, he lives in Delta, not Montrose. For those of us who grew up here, we know there is a difference. However, he positions himself as our editorial savior while targeting this author and anyone else who he or his chosen few disagree with. His real issue? Being a lapdog for figures like Superintendent Carrie Stephenson, City Manager Bill Bell, and County Commissioner "Saint" Sue Hansen. He ignores clear Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) results showing just 37.7% proficiency of our students, meaning nearly two-thirds of our students do not meet standards, a substandard outcome from failed policies in favor of something people with common sense can see clearly, needed change. No amount of denial changes that our kids deserve better. This passive attitude is why voters elected the current board, to drive that change.

Agreement on the Law Firms purpose

I agree with him on one thing: No law firm runs the board; they serve it. However, Miller's track record demonstrates sound legal advice that empowers boards to make effective decisions, ultimately helping raise student scores. Those who oppose Miller’s firm provided claims that were riddled with inaccuracies and outright fabrications. Montrose needs facts, not fearmongering. Let's focus on progress and support voices that fight for our kids rather than the status quo.



Just one man’s humble opinion.

Michael J Badagliacco, “MJB”

Michael is a father of 5, grandfather of 3, USAF Veteran, recording artist, entrepreneur, Editor of USA Liberty Report, passionate about Freedom, Liberty, the founders’ genius of the Constitution and current Candidate for Montrose City Council (mjb4Montrose.com).