Leo Arcos, a 13‑year United States Army veteran and Republican candidate for El Paso County Commissioner Precinct 4, released his platform ahead of the 2026 elections. Arcos emphasizes a blend of faith‑guided service, disciplined leadership, and a firm stance on fiscal stewardship for the county’s taxpayers.
Leadership and Fiscal Experience
Arcos holds an MBA and a master’s degree in leadership, which he says give him the tools to evaluate budgets, prioritize spending, and make sound financial decisions. He stresses that “taxpayer dollars are not government money; they belong to the people.” His education, combined with military experience, forms the basis for his promise to ask tough questions, hold departments accountable, eliminate waste, and ensure county resources serve families, veterans, seniors, and every taxpayer.
Service Background and Faith
During three combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, Arcos says he learned discipline, sacrifice, and the importance of leading with integrity. He describes himself as a “servant leader” who listens, learns, and takes responsibility. Arcos also cites his trust in God as a guiding force, noting that faith, humility, and a willingness to learn from both success and mistakes shape his approach to public service.
Policy Positions
Data centers: Arcos opposes data‑center projects that receive county tax abatements while potentially straining water, electricity, natural gas, infrastructure, and public health. He argues that economic development must benefit the community without shifting costs onto taxpayers and calls for full transparency and fiscal responsibility before any such project proceeds.
Property taxes: To reduce property taxes, Arcos proposes independent audits, stricter budget approvals, disciplined department oversight, waste cuts, protection of essential services, and demanding fair contract values.
Deck Plaza project: Arcos does not support the Deck Plaza, stating that El Paso County should not be in the business of entertainment ventures.
Transparency and Accessibility
Arcos pledges an open‑door policy, promising monthly meetings on both sides of the precinct so every resident can be heard. He says he will provide honest updates, explain decisions clearly, and remain present and accountable beyond election season.
Why He Says He Is the Best Choice
Arcos argues his veteran background gives him a unique understanding of sacrifice and duty, especially for the county’s veteran community. He highlights his active presence in the precinct, listening to constituents regardless of party affiliation, and his commitment to protecting taxpayers, demanding responsible spending, and ensuring county government uses every dollar wisely and transparently for the benefit of the community.
Looking Ahead
If elected, Arcos says his focus will be on safeguarding resources for families, veterans, and seniors while fostering a government that is accountable, fiscally disciplined, and rooted in Christian values. Voters in Precinct 4 are encouraged to attend his upcoming town‑hall meetings to learn more about his proposals and ask questions directly.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
