Mesilla trustee candidates stress infrastructure, transparency and resident engagement at League forum

A League of Women Voters–moderated candidate forum in Mesilla on July 21 brought five candidates before residents to outline priorities including infrastructure, transparency and public-safety funding.

Terry Sugarman, a League volunteer who moderated the event, explained the forum rules and time limits before each candidate gave opening remarks. Candidates who identified themselves emphasized local roots and a mix of professional experience. Veronica Garcia said preserving Mesilla’s character and acknowledging residents are central to her approach. "We are Mesilla… That’s what makes us Mesilla," she said.

Infrastructure and maintenance were recurring themes. Martin Waldenio and others urged road repairs, sidewalk fixes and attention to water and fire-hydrant infrastructure. Several candidates proposed pursuing grants and increasing gross-receipts-generating activity to expand the town’s revenue for street and maintenance work.

On budget priorities, candidates largely favored investing in infrastructure and business support. One candidate cited attorney bills, saying the town’s legal costs were already "about over $40,000" since the budget year began in July and suggested that legal spending should be reviewed.

Public safety also drew attention: speakers described the need for funding and local capacity, including a recent loss of an ambulance contract that candidates said the town is working to replace. Candidates recommended pursuing federal and state funding, stronger community engagement and direct outreach to elected officials to secure resources.

Candidates offered different takes on growth. Veronica Garcia argued Mesilla should resist annexation, saying expanding into adjoining jurisdictions would change the town’s identity. Other candidates described annexation as a possible tool to create buffer zones, expand commercial areas and increase tax revenue if done "smartly" and with protection for the Green Belt.

Several candidates urged clearer ordinances and better communication to improve transparency and compliance with the Open Meetings Act. Some said the current board has made progress on openness; others recommended updating codes to prevent inconsistent interpretations.

On youth needs, candidates acknowledged limited programming and parks. Proposals included creating more youth activities, using farmland for community gardens and recreation, and incorporating youth goals into a comprehensive plan already under discussion.

The forum concluded with one-minute closing statements and a reminder from Sugarman to register and vote. The League provided a voter guide and directed residents to vote411.org for registration information.

What happens next: the candidates will advance toward the election; residents were encouraged to follow up with the candidates at post-forum meet-and-greet opportunities noted at the event.