Letter to Editor December 4, 2025 / Bisbee Observer

To the editor:

We read with interest last week’s Editorial Opinion penned by Cynthia Conroy and the Board of Bisbee Vogue. While we’re always in favor of public discussion and constructive debate, there are several misconceptions in that piece that need to be cleared up.

First, on the topic of oversight and authority, let’s be clear – these still strongly remain with the City of Bisbee, specifically the City Council. Per the proposed terms of the DMO contract requested by the City, Bisbee Forward will provide quarterly and annual reports presented in Council meetings. (Note: this is a significant improvement over the near-zero public review of recent years.) In the contract and in principle, Bisbee Forward is committed to collaborating with the City on annual budgets, strategy, and plans. This arrangement ensures that the City retains its authority while incorporating the interests of local businesses and nonprofits in promoting Bisbee as a whole.

Second, the editorial and Ms. Conroy seem confused on the subject of funding. Bisbee Forward has not requested, nor does it support, using any City revenues which do not emanate exclusively from the Bed Tax funds, in line with the clear and express purpose of this tax. Suggesting that somehow “the budget for other areas will be cut” is not supported by the facts, our discussions, or any City Council feedback. To suggest otherwise is disingenuous at best.

Among the nearly 70 local organizations that make up Bisbee Forward, it’s our policy to listen to any and all concerns, not just those of our members. And we’re always happy to welcome anyone with a genuine interest to collaborate for our mutual success. Let’s get Bisbee back on track for the betterment of our entire community.

On that note, please join us for a community mixer January 14th, 2026 from 530-730 PM. If you can, please bring a can of food or article of warm clothing to donate to Gore Park. RSVP here:

htpps://www.bisbeeforward.org/event-details/bisbee-forward-community-meetup-mixer

The Board of Bisbee Forward, on behalf of our entire membership:

Steve Ball, President

Mike Ablin, Vice President

Kelly Galligan, Secretary

Carrick Sears, Treasurer

Alex Mastrangelo, Member

Gretchen Bonaduce, Member

Nicole France,

Member Liza Kovach, Member

Kelsey Allen, Member

Eva Rupert, Member

Seara Head, Member

Lisa Head, Member