Dear john,

As El Pasoans go out and celebrate the holidays over the next two weeks, we know that this risk will only grow. Many El Pasoans have shared with me that they are concerned about what seems like a growing problem with DWIs and would like to see leaders take action, so I recently convened a meeting with key stakeholders to create a plan that is responsive to the public outcry.

There were a number of ideas floated on how to begin tackling this issue, and the roundtable I hosted will be the first of many other meetings to discuss how we can work as a community to end drunk driving. This issue cannot and will not be solved with one meeting, but will take a concerted effort from the public and private sector. But I’m grateful to everyone who is committed to ensuring we do everything possible to help make our community safer.

Please help ensure that your friends and loved ones understand that driving under the influence is completely avoidable. This is especially important during the holiday season when many in our community are out celebrating. Help us spread the word that El Pasoans have options. The County offers weekly discounted rideshare vouchers you can find here on a first-come, first-serve basis. We’re also in talks with the City about what other measures we can take, such as implementing a “no-towing” rule on weekends so drivers can use a rideshare app without fear of having the vehicles the left behind towed away.

As we continue working on solutions, please know that we will share the information with you so that you can help us spread the word. And if you have ideas or suggestions you’d like us to consider, please send those along as well. Our community is very good at supporting each other and working together. And this issue will be no different.