Together with other members of the County Commission, represents the County and its interests in all case not otherwise provided for by law. Appoints elections officials to fill vacancies. The Commission is responsible for the County budget, County ordinances and resolutions, and zoning and business regulation in unincorporated areas, and sets policy for the operations of County government. Must be at least 18 years of age and a resident of district from which elected. Four-year term, no more than two terms in succession.
Campaign Phone
917-903-9056
Occupation
County Commissioner
My work experience as a communications professional prepared me to think through and help manage the various communications tasks required in government work. Whether I'm providing information about projects and work the County is (or perhaps isn't) doing, or sharing constituents' concerns, or even when I'm expressing my own questions about policy, clear communication is the foundation for understanding and success.
Through my work experience in the business world, I also bring a focus on effective project management, which is needed in government work as much as in any other work.
Our biggest challenges facing Taos County are the lack of affordable housing, which is the foundation of a healthy community. Without it, we won't have the new entrepreneurs, healthcare and education professionals, or public safety workers we need.
Additionally, we face a lack of substance use treatment facilities (detox, transitional housing), and a shortage of healthcare professionals (especially in the field of mental and behavioral health).
Of course, the climate crisis is also a huge challenge that needs ongoing attention. We face ongoing drought, the increased risk of wildfire, and threats to our health and homes.
I would address our biggest challenges by continuing the collaborative community work we've started during my first term: For housing, Taos County has a plan to build workforce housing on County land, and joined with the Town of Taos to start the Taos Housing Partnership, which is leading by providing homebuyer education and support.
For social services, we prioritized support for an emergency shelter program and worked to get the location, funding, and partners to re-start a detox center (in progress).
For the climate, we implemented a unique agreement to more efficiently access federal funds for protecting our forests and watersheds. We're also focusing on energy efficiency, starting with our own buildings and land use regulations.
During my first term, I prioritized bringing back the position of Taos County Economic Development Director. The person we're now fortunate to have in this role has convened regional economic development summits, and has brought in grant funding for programs we are now running for youth internships in arts and technology. In addition to this ongoing work, I plan to support a plan for a one-stop business resource center to serve Taos County and the Town of Taos and our other municipalities. The business center will make the start-up path for entrepreneurs smoother, supporting their business strategy, licensing, and permitting.
Growth comes in two forms: population growth and business or economic growth. For business growth, I propose we focus on industries that use little water or repurposed water, as agriculture does (where water used goes back into the aquifer). In terms of population growth, we desperately need new housing, but any new or retrofitted housing should implement water conservation measures. Taos County can help control both areas through our Land Use Regulations and Comprehensive Plan, both of which are being updated. I intend to keep a close eye on how they address housing and water sustainability.
