Hi, I’m Diego Velasquez.

I’m running for Grand County Commission in District 4 and here’s a bit of my story:

Originally from a small town in rural Appalachia, I’ve felt at home here in Grand County ever since I first laid eyes on the red rocks. I'm a community advocate, arts leader, and nonprofit organizer runningCommission because I believe we can build a stronger, more economically resilient future for local families and workers.

As a Director of the Moab Museum, I've spent the past four years working closely with residents and long-standing local families to honor the stories, lived history, and legacies that shape this place we call home. My work outside of the Museum has brought me into an organizing an advocacy realm as a board member for Utah Nonprofits Association, serving on the City of Moab’s RAP TAX Committee, and working across the nonprofit spectrum to build capacity, train boards and staff, and inject dollars back into our community.

I'm committed to bringing financial common sense to county decision-making, balancing growth with the way of life that makes Moab and Grand County unique, and strengthening trust and respect between the Commission, county staff, board members, and the public. I believe good leadership starts with listening. It means keeping people informed, inviting the community into conversations early, and working together to find practical solutions grounded in local values and lived experience.

You may have met me through my work at the Museum, seen me riding my bike up and down Center St. working across a range of sectors and businesses, or crossed paths with me at a community bike or arts event. However we've connected, I hope to earn your trust through thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to serving all of our needs.

What do you want to see out of this County in the next four years?

Young man with long hair smiling outdoors during sunset, wearing a light-colored fleece jacket, in a rocky, arid landscape.