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Mesilla candidates split on annexation; some call it a tool to expand tax base, one urges preservation of town identity
Summary
At the League of Women Voters forum, candidates disagreed sharply on annexation: Veronica Garcia opposed any annexation to preserve Mesilla's identity, while other candidates called for careful, 'smart' annexation to create buffer zones and boost commercial tax revenue.
Annexation and growth outside Mesilla’s current boundaries emerged as one of the clearest divides at a League of Women Voters candidate forum July 21.
Veronica Garcia, a candidate for town trustee, opposed any annexation during her answer to an audience question. "Absolutely not. We are Mesilla. We are unique. I believe we stay in," Garcia said, arguing that annexation or becoming connected to Las Cruces or the county would change the town’s identity.
Other candidates described annexation as a possible, conditional tool. Adrianna Merrick said annexation is "a viable option" if done smartly and used to expand commercial and industrial areas to increase the town’s tax base while protecting historic areas. Martin Waldenio likewise supported targeted annexation, pointing to areas between Molto Boulevard and the interstate and near Highway 28 and Union as potential places that would create a buffer and not interfere with the Green Belt.
All candidates framed any expansion as contingent on protecting Mesilla’s historic heart and Green Belt. Several said that annexation discussions should be governed by clear planning and community education so residents understand consequences and options.
No official annexation proposal was put forward at the forum, and candidates emphasized that any move would require careful study, compliance with state statute and community buy-in.
