United States Senate

Questions:

1.Why are you seeking this position? 2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What are the three biggest issues facing the state of New Mexico and how would you solve them if elected?

Steve Pearce, Republican

1. I am running to represent New Mexico’s values in the U.S. Senate, fight for limited government and lower taxes, and to promote policies to make the United States more secure, free and prosperous.

2. My whole life has been dedicated to serving New Mexico. I have fought for my country in the military. My wife and I bought and ran a small business for 14 years in Hobbs that provided jobs and revenue for our community. I have also served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2002 and served in the New Mexico Legislature.

3. My priorities are: Constituent service: Our office prides itself on the work we do for our constituents and the difference we can make in people’s lives; the economy and job creation. We must have low taxes and put an end to wasteful spending in Washington; Energy, including short-term investments in oil and gas, mid-term investments in nuclear energy and long-term investments in all renewable energies.

Tom Udall, Democrat

1. As a congressman, I’ve worked hard to bring real change to New Mexico and the country, only to see many of those efforts thwarted in the Senate. On energy, the economy, and other issues, the Senate has blocked proposals to move our country in a new direction. I am running for the Senate to change that and continue doing what is right for New Mexico.

2. From working on behalf of New Mexico’s most vulnerable citizens as attorney general to leading on energy and veterans issues as a congressman, I’ve spent my entire career doing what is right for New Mexico. As attorney general I cracked down on DWI and domestic violence. In Congress, I’ve pushed for more alternative energy investment and increased health and education benefits for veterans.

3. — The economy: Enact middle class tax cuts, restore fiscal discipline and invest in the new energy economy to create jobs. — Energy: Do It All, including more drilling and nuclear, increased conservation and a massive investment in alternative energy like wind and solar.

— Veterans: Care for our veterans at home, responsibly end the war in Iraq, focus on the terrorists in Afghanistan who attacked us.

U.S. House of Representatives, District 1

Questions:

1.Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What are the three biggest issues facing your district and how would you solve them if elected?

4. What will you do to ensure that the West Side of Metro Albuquerque, including Rio Rancho and Corrales, receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

Martin Heinrich, Democrat

1. We face some tough economic challenges now and I want to make the country for my two young boys better than the one I grew up in. I have the experience and integrity needed to get things done in Congress for New Mexican families, work across the aisle to improve our healthcare system, bring good paying jobs to our state, and jumpstart our economy.

2. I served for four years on the Albuquerque City Council, including one term as president. On the council, I put partisanship aside and worked to pass a minimum wage increase, foster small business growth, and crack down on crime. I am the only candidate in this race who has experience cutting taxes, balancing a budget, and passing legislation.

3. We need to jumpstart the economy by passing a permanent tax cut for the middle class. Affordable healthcare must be available to everyone. I’ll vote to expand the Children’s Health Insurance Program, which will cover an additional 28,000 uninsured New Mexican children. I’ll champion more investment in renewable energy, creating thousands of high-paying, high-quality jobs right here in New Mexico.

4. I’m the only candidate in this race with the experience to deliver results for the West Side. As city councilor, I secured almost $200 million in infrastructure funds for the West side to repair roads and bridges and improve community resources like schools, firehouses, and police stations. In Congress, I will use my legislative experience to fight for our fair share of federal infrastructure funds.

Darren White, Republican

1. Politicians and bureaucrats in Washington are failing the American people — from their failure to pass a comprehensive energy policy to their recent $850 billion bailout of Wall Street; Congress’ priorities are misguided. Congress is too concerned about scoring partisan, political points instead of coming together to solve problems, like healthcare, education and our economy. I’m running to bring real change and independent leadership to Congress.

2. As an Army veteran, street cop, cabinet secretary, and elected sheriff of Bernalillo County, I have dedicated my life to public service and the citizens of New Mexico. I believe I have the background, experience, and skills to listen to voters’ concerns, think independently, act decisively and have the integrity and strength to stand up and fight for what is right.

3. In these difficult economic times, the last thing we need is higher, job-killing taxes on families and small businesses. We must address our addiction to foreign oil, allow domestic drilling, and develop alternatives. We need to fix our failing education system. In this global economy, we can’t trap our children in failing schools. We should stress local control, and encourage math and science education.

4. Unlike my opponent who opposed the Montano Bridge, Paseo del Norte, and other critical projects on the West Side, I have long supported these projects because these are more than quality of life issues — they’re about public safety. We need to continue to build and improve our infrastructure from roads, bridges, sewers, and water, and respond appropriately and effectively to the needs of our citizens.

U.S. House of Representatives, District 3

Questions:

1.Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What are the three biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve them if elected?

4. What will you do to ensure that the West Side of Metro Albuquerque, including Rio Rancho and Corrales, receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

Dan East, Republican

1. I am running for the U.S. House of Representatives because there is a common theme among New Mexicans in my district, “Don’t forget about us.” Those words demonstrate the lack of attention and representation people have received from our current congressman, and they also demonstrate the wonderful sense of community you find in the people of New Mexico.

2. I have practical, business and life experience. I understand, and possess, what it takes to make hard decisions and ensure that I am doing what is right for everyone. I know when to break away from party-line and vote for my constituents. My opponent simply does not have the experience necessary to make such decisions and will not have the strength to do what is right.

3. Energy and infrastructure. I will fight for American access to our own energy and to reinvest tax dollars into our infrastructure. For every $1,000,000,000 spent on infrastructure, we create 40,000 new jobs. We need to drill in America to stabilize the price of oil and we need to foster alternative sources to protect our future.

4. I have said all along that I will reinvest tax dollars to infrastructure to ensure that taxpayers get a value back from their money. Our roads and bridges are falling apart at an alarming rate and we need to make their repair a priority. Not only will this benefit the community, but it will create jobs. Those jobs are badly needed in our current economic situation.

Ben Ray Lujan, Democrat

1. We need to get our country back on track, and my experience on the Public Regulation Commission will allow me to make an immediate impact in Congress. I will continue to fight for energy solutions for New Mexico’s working families, an economy that works for the middle class, an end to the war in Iraq and healthcare for all Americans.

2. As a Public Regulation Commissioner and a former chairman of the commission, I have stood up for the people of New Mexico. I took on Qwest and forced them to refund $15 million to ratepayers. I fought to require utility companies to expand their use of renewable energy. I worked to close loopholes that insurance companies used to deny healthcare coverage to patients.

3. (1) Economy — We need to provide middle class tax relief. We need to hold irresponsible corporations accountable and invest in our infrastructure. (2). Healthcare — We need to provide affordable, accessible healthcare for all. (3) Energy — We need a comprehensive energy approach that will end our dependence on foreign oil and create jobs right here in New Mexico. 

4. We need to make sure Rio Rancho and Corrales have the infrastructure in place to continue to grow into a well-rounded community. A significant amount of this funding is going to be in the new transportation bill. This means that we are going to have to address the shortfall in the Highway Trust fund and get communities like Rio Rancho the support they need.

Carol Miller, Independent

1. I am the only candidate experienced at working across party lines in Congress, drafting and passing legislation to help our district and our country. I already have the skills we need to make our district count. I was urged to run when, in an unprecedented move, all three members of the N.M. House delegation resigned at the same time leaving us with no seniority.

2. I believe in public service. I am running as an Independent and am committed to ending partisan gridlock and working for all of the people, not a political party. My experience in health care and community economic development includes two presidential appointments in Washington, D.C. — Republican and Democrat — and a Governor Richardson appointment to the New Mexico Commission on Higher Education. I have a solid track record and will serve with integrity.

3. The economy, the economy, the economy. Beginning November 5, I will hold meetings around the district to hear your ideas and priorities for digging out of the economic crisis. I consider myself a fiscal conservative because while serving in D.C., I have seen excessive waste in government. This is a new day. I will only vote for programs that assure accountability, transparency and value to the taxpayer.

4. Sadly, this is a new era with both a national and state financial crisis. I opposed the bailout and believe we need “trickle up” economics that strengthen communities through public works and infrastructure investment. I will have an office in Rio Rancho where we can meet often and together plan, prioritize and then legislate for the best interests of our district and our country.

Public Regulation Commission, District 3

Questions:

1.Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. When evaluating requests for utility rate increases, what factors into your decision to approve the rate increase or not?

Jerome Block Jr., Democrat

1. The PRC is a diverse agency which touches the lives of all citizens. I know the issues that face people every day: Paying their electric, gas and telephone bills, obtaining affordable insurance and adequate coverage for their health, home and autos. I also want to ensure that transportation companies are operating in a safe manner. I will also work to promote proper funding for local fire districts.

2. My training and work experience are in finance. I have started from scratch and managed bank branches and supervised many employees. I have also worked in the industry, which gives me a perspective of a regulated entity, as well as being a regulator. I believe that my financial experience will be invaluable in evaluating the many complicated issues that come before the PRC.

3. Commissioners must base decisions on the record established by the applicant company, the PRC staff, including utility staff, legal staff and possibly contract expert witnesses. When considering rates, the PRC must take into account the type of energy technologies allowed or required. There is a balancing act, which must be achieved to ensure that costs incurred do not expose the ratepayer. The commission must also be careful to ensure that the utility is kept healthy.

 

Rick Lass, Green party

1. I am in this race because I believe it is critical that our government stands up for everyday New Mexicans — families, working people, business owners, and retirees — who are struggling to make ends meet. The PRC makes decisions that affect all of us and I will fight to keep utility rates low and ensure that people get the insurance coverage that we pay for.

2. I have worked for the Santa Fe Independent Business Alliance on the Buy Local campaign and understand the difficulties facing our local business community in light of rising costs. As director of Voting Matters, I advocate for good government and democracy. I am dedicated to being a true public servant, not just another rubber stamp for the big corporations.

3. I will oppose another rate increase for PNM as long as expenses for lobbyists, advertising and executive salaries remain out of control. We can help PNM lower their expenses by creating efficient, local grids and small-scale production like solar panels for homeowners, businesses, and government buildings. In addition, I will work to encourage energy efficient appliances, weatherization, and insulation.

State Senate, District 9

Questions:

1.Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. How will you work to ensure that Rio Rancho receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

 

Steve Komadina, Republican (incumbent)

1. I want to finish the work started on Healthcare Reform and Flood control of the West Mesa and infrastructure development for Sandoval County. I want to see jobs located on the West Side to make commuting not necessary and adequate funding of all education in the district.

2. Lifelong New Mexican who has served as a community leader for over 40 years. Respected leader among current Senators and recognized nationally as state legislator of the year 2008. Non-partisan legislator able to get things that put people first. Passion to make Sandoval County a great place for my 15 grandchildren to live, learn and work.

3. Adequate schools facilities and adequate funding for growing areas. Fair funding formula for schools based on growth, not prior enrollment.

4. We need to use Public Improvement Districts (PIDs) like Ventana Ranch and Cabazon have done as well as Tax Increment Development Districts (TIDDs) like Mesa del Sol and SunCal. Capital outlay money will also be used as we have in the past.

 

John Sapien, Democrat

1. My entire life I have volunteered to serve others. The representation we have received in the last eight years has lacked. Relationships which benefited the district in the past have soured and there has been no leadership in the issues that face the district. Reactionary, rather than proactive, describes the last eight years. I will bring new ideas based on my business background and take the district and state in a new direction.

2. Being an effective legislator is all about positive relationships with other legislators and the executive branch of the state government. I have been building successful business relationships for 20-plus years and will bring those skills to the Legislature. My clients look to my leadership as an advisor and confidant. I have developed the leadership and counseling skills which will advance the district and the state.

3. Bernalillo faces infrastructure and congestion. Corrales faces the same challenges and how to afford the additional services. Rio Rancho faces continued growth issues that must be managed given the strain additional growth will put on the transportation system which affects all three communities. All three face smart economic development decisions which will aid in providing additional services. Positive relationships and leadership will bring additional capital outlay to the district.

4. As Rio Rancho approves industrial revenue bonds, a portion should be dedicated infrastructure. Maximize our request for set aside monies for smaller projects. General obligation bonds and greater effectiveness at legislative level for capital outlay monies. This last option requires positive relationships which have been compromised over the last eight years. I will bring the communication and support for District 9 back to benefit the district.

State Senate, District 10

Questions:

1. Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. How will you work to ensure that Rio Rancho receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

John Ryan, Republican (Incumbent)

1. I have dedicated my life to public service and want to continue improving the lives of New Mexicans. I have worked tirelessly to represent you, ranking as one of the most successful senators. I will work to strengthen the economy by cutting taxes, creating jobs, reforming education, and increasing opportunities for children. Failing schools and high tax rates are driving businesses, families, and our brightest kids away.

2. I began my public service career in 1988, working for and learning firsthand from Senator Pete Domenici. As a first-term state senator from District 10, I rank among the top senators to champion legislation passed into law, including auditing public education to spend more money in the classroom, amending water conservation law, establishing a college scholarship program, strengthening DWI laws, and improving homeless services for children.

3. Our state budget is seriously impacted by the nation’s economic crisis. I will work to cut wasteful spending, cut taxes, and legitimize practices in the lending industry. I have well established relationships with Democrats and Republicans, enabling me to promote change without partisan politics. I successfully secured emergency funding to address Rio Rancho’s overcrowding in schools and will continue to focus on infrastructure issues and educational reform.

4. I support improving Rio Rancho’s business climate by expanding job training programs and creating tax incentives that attract new businesses and high-paying jobs to Rio Rancho, generating additional revenue for infrastructure needs. I also support taking a higher percentage of state gas tax money and spending it on new roads and road maintenance projects especially in high growth areas with greater needs, like Rio Rancho.

 

Victor Raigoza, Democrat

1. Having served as a financial advisor for the past 15 years, I am running to help us through these tough economic times because we need a person who understands finance and budgeting. I am running to make healthcare affordable for all New Mexicans, to give our children better schools and give our citizens safer streets.

2. Fifteen years as a financial advisor, my understanding of the economy and finance qualifies me for this position. I have served on the Government Oversight Committee and I have assisted in obtaining funds from the legislature for the New Mexico Holocaust and Intolerance Museum. I have also served on the Edward Jones Federal Grassroots Task Force advocating on behalf of Investors.

3. Crime and the lack of enforcement to keep criminals behind bars has become a serious issue of our district. I intend to encourage the enforcement of laws that will keep criminals off the street. Of equal importance, is making sure that our students have the best education available to them and that they are encouraged to graduate.

4. I will always fight for every area of the district and work closely with my fellow legislators from the Rio Rancho area to assure adequate funding for Rio Rancho.

State Senate, District 22

Questions:

1. Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. How will you work to ensure that Rio Rancho receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

Lynda Lovejoy Democrat (Incumbent, unopposed)

1. To be a public servant. You have to have love for the people and be willing to devote and be committed to working on their behalf. I have the love for people and am willing to work hard to be their voice and represent them on policy-making matters in making a difference in their quality of life.

2. I have the education and experience to hold a senate position. My bachelor’s degree is in public administration, and I am currently working on an MBA with 18-plus hours. I served in the New Mexico House of Representatives for 10 years; on the Public Regulation Commission for eight years and as an appointed State Senator for two years. I am looking forward to serving as state senator for four years.

3. The greatest challenge in Senate District 22 is the lack of infrastructure because it is a very rural district. Many residents, particularly in Indian country, are still without electricity, running water and have inadequate health care. In the last two years, I distributed capital outlay funds to rural communities for improvement to water treatment systems, irrigation canals and sought funds for motor grader equipment; power line extensions; regional solid waste improvements and even for technology expansion. 

4. I secured capital outlay funding for Rio Rancho Public Schools classroom technology equipment as well as for SSCAFCA’s Chamiza Estes Drainage Improvement for two consecutive years. I will continue to work with municipal leaders and tribal communities to secure needed dollars to enable our children, families and communities to reap the benefits with infrastructure development.

State Senate, District 23

Questions:

1. Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. How will you work to ensure that Rio Rancho receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

 

Sander Rue, Republican (Incumbent, unopposed)

1. As a working parent, I am concerned about what the future holds for my children, our community and our state. Given the current economic crisis, New Mexico faces unique challenges going forward, which will require elected officials to take a realistic, common sense approach to first acknowledge the situation and then the courage to make what are sure to be difficult decisions. I’m prepared to be my constituents’ representative in this process.

2. My years of community service and a strong desire to serve the residents of state senate district 23 qualify me for this position. I have represented the West Side on several governmental boards and commissions and have been active at the neighborhood level as the founding president of my neighborhood association and as a board member of a local little league.

3. Managing the explosive growth of Rio Rancho and northwest Albuquerque is our biggest challenge. Our infrastructure development has fallen behind and our quality of life is the casualty. I will work with the communities and local government officials to identify the unmet needs and in Santa Fe I will fight for the funding necessary to address those needs.

4. I will reach out to the other Rio Rancho state legislators and work with them as a team to procure the funding needed to develop our infrastructure. We will be more effective working together on all issues concerning Rio Rancho.

State House, District 23

Questions:

1.Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. How will you work to ensure that Rio Rancho receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

Eric Youngberg, Republican (incumbent)

1. I have always been motivated to work on issues that will improve people’s lives. I am eager to continue my work on government ethics issues and ensure there is a fiscally conservative voice in the New Mexico Legislature

2. My training as a certified public accountant, an attorney at law, a master’s degree in accounting and taxation, and in my work as a small business owner.

3. The West Side has many infrastructure needs, from overcrowded schools to traffic congestion. More importantly our state is currently facing financial shortfalls. We must prioritize these needs when allocating our dwindling state budget,

4. We must focus on cutting out wasteful government spending and prioritizing our objectives.

 

Benjamin Hayden Rodefer, Democrat

1. I believe I can do a better job of advocating for this community than our current representative, Eric Youngberg. Youngberg has been absent 44 percent of the time since we elected him and earlier this year he didn’t even bother to show up for 63 key votes on vital legislation. I grew up here. I am raising my family here and care deeply about this community.

2. This race is about community, integrity and hard work. My opponent has been in office for six years and has not shown any hint of those traits. I will do better. I will show up and fight for the hard-working people of the West Side. I have been active in the community and know first hand the issues we face. I can make a real difference.

3. Education. We need to be teaching our children for life, not for tests. No Child Left Behind is actually leaving every child behind. We absolutely must get back to providing our children with a strong, well-balanced education, letting our teachers focus on doing their job, not on relentless assessment and testing. We can do better, and our future depends on it.

4. I will coordinate with the county commission and mayor’s office to work up a prioritized list of infrastructure needs for the community and then pursue every available funding source to ensure those projects get completed quickly and efficiently.

State House, District 60

Questions:

1. Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. How will you work to ensure that Rio Rancho receives the funding needed to provide adequate infrastructure?

 

Paula Papponi, Republican

1. I provide the innovation and creativity needed to meet the challenges we face. This campaign is about the voters of Rio Rancho and what we can do together to go in a new direction, one that is responsive to their hopes and dreams for our city. In Santa Fe, I will be a voice for the people. I believe in the future of Rio Rancho.

2. I possess the integrity, intelligence, energy and commitment to excellence constituents expect and deserve. I listen well, and think outside the box. My career has prepared me for public service: A Fulbright Scholar; I have presented nationally and internationally; I am president of two New Mexico education councils and a national leader in education; I have worked with many levels of government and I am associate director of New Mexico North Central Association, accrediting schools in 65 countries, 30 states.

3. Education and economic prosperity are interrelated. A world-class educational system and a strong business community are our future. Economic development requires intelligent regulation, not overregulation. Being business-friendly, ending wasteful spending, lowering taxes and achieving greater prosperity means more money for education and can be accomplished with honesty and integrity. It’s who I am and how I live my life. Voters expect this and deserve nothing less.

4. Our local government has taken millions of dollars from industrial revenue bonds intended for us and given it to state government, while Rio Rancho’s infrastructure needs remain unmet. We need road improvements and road networks in and around Rio Rancho to relieve the congestion. I will work for our needs. I will fight for and keep Capital Outlay money here. Rio Rancho is my priority.

 

Jack Thomas, Democrat

1. I have the proven ability to help find workable solutions to critical needs that residents are telling me are important. I will work to improve job opportunities in our area and establish viable transportation options. I will work to attain an adequate supply of water and sufficient funds for our schools. I also believe elected officials should be responsive and I encourage anyone to call me at home, 892-1320.

2. I know the needs and challenges of my area. Having lived in the same home for 31 years, I know many of the district’s residents. I have a long history of working hard to improve Rio Rancho, first as a city councilor and, currently, as county commissioner. And I have the proven ability to form public/private partnerships that improve the quality of life in our area without raising property taxes.

3. We must strengthen our local economy by increasing our employment opportunities, attracting high-paying jobs for our workers and broadening our tax base. As I have in the past, I will form working partnerships between government and private businesses to make sure we have the key ingredients for a successful economy, adequate infrastructure, sufficient water, reliable transportation and excellent educational opportunities.

4. The Legislature must work on two fronts. First, we need to encourage natural gas and oil exploration, without harming the environment, as a way to increase revenues to satisfy local infrastructure needs. Secondly, we must modernize the state’s antiquated funding formula that provides road money to local governments and recognize both current construction costs and the critical need of high-growth areas like Rio Rancho.

County Commission Questions 

1. Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What is the biggest issue facing your district and how would you solve it if elected?

4. What measures would you take in managing the county’s development so that infrastructure and services are available?

District 2

Donnie Leonard, Democrat (incumbent)

1. I have the experience, knowledge and ability to actively and fairly represent our area. I’m very accessible and anyone can call me, 235-6570, if I can be of help. I have a proven record working with civic, business, volunteer and education groups to improve our communities. I want to further some of the projects we’ve worked together to develop.

2. I have served with many groups, agencies and boards, as a commissioner and a concerned citizen. Those experiences have provided knowledge and foresight. In addition to the county commission, some of the groups with which I’ve served include the county’s Juvenile Justice Committee, the Mid Region Council of Governments, the economic development transition teams for both Gov. Richardson and Mayor Chavez, and Lt. Gov. Denish’s transportation task force.

3. We need to continue developing an integrated transportation system to provide affordable alternatives to commute for work, school, medical appointments and shopping. We need to complete the broadband initiative. We need to continue forming partnerships that provide money and resources to keep pace with our growth while not increasing taxes.

4. An interlinking commuter, bus, carpool and rail system will ease traffic pressure on NM 528, US 550 and I-25. I will continue talks with neighboring governments to develop routes to improve traffic flow. We also must actively develop partnerships with federal, state and local governments and private businesses that can generate resources to develop our infrastructure and services. Finally, the county’s desalination project must be developed as one way to secure water for our future.

 

Kim Rytter, Republican

1. Rytter returned to campaigning throughout the district, on a grassroots walking tour, running for county commissioner. Rytter is running on the platform of progressive change for Rio Rancho and Corrales. Rytter champions issues like SAD 7 and alternative funding strategies for our county. Voters believe in her leadership ideas enough to elect her during the June primary with 112 more votes than (Donnie) Leonard.

2. Though this is would be Rytter’s first time in elected office, this is not the beginning of her love of public service. In 1988, Rytter was appointed a coordinator of student welfare for Contra Costa Community College (California). After witnessing local government with the issue of eminent domain, she decided to make a positive difference in the lives of New Mexicans. Rytter uses a common sense management approach, college degree and local partnerships to make her qualified for county commissioner.

3. I would encourage economic development in the following ways. New Mexico tax credits to attract new businesses. Rytter plans to work on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects for Sandoval County. Meanwhile, Rytter plans to work with local economic development representative Kay McCormick. Sandoval County commissioners might like to provide suggestions for local options gross receipts tax (LOGRT) distribution of funds in our county.

District 4

Sylvia Martinez, Democrat

1. I want to continue to be involved in the community in a greater capacity. I am very passionate about our youth, seniors and workers. I will work hard to move our neighborhoods forward and build new opportunities that enhance the quality of life for our residents. We’re in this together and together we can continue to build a better tomorrow, especially for future generations.

2. 32 years experience within the New Mexico public education system, on the administrative side and volunteering in many community and school activities. This allowed me to develop skills in an area with budgets, grants and a projects coordinator, organizing many activities and building partnerships. I worked with ESL students as an office secretary, with Chapter I programs and advanced placement of New Mexico (APNM) as assistant director. I continued the partnership with UNM for Advanced Placement Summer Institute (APSI) for teachers and formed a APSI partnership with NMSU.

3. The biggest issue in District 4 is the quality of life, which includes: Road rehabilitation, curb and gutter drainage — continue to work with Southern Sandoval County Flood Control to protect properties; transportation — expand public transportation such as Sandoval County Express and Rio Rancho Transit; sidewalks with handicap accessibility ADA; upgrade parks and walking paths — moving forward with partnerships such as City of Rio Rancho, state Legislature and SSCAFCA.

4. Sandoval County is experiencing the fastest growth in New Mexico. First and foremost is to make sure there is adequate funding in place before construction begins. Make sure fire and police protection are accessible. I will assure that all issues regarding land use, transportation and public services are met. I will work closely with planning and zoning and the county development division to insure all county development policies are followed, while preserving our historic and cultural resources. We must protect out natural resources and environmental critical areas from any effects of development.

 

Glenn Walters, Republican

1. I care about Rio Rancho/Sandoval County and strongly believe our best days are ahead. I understand public service is just that, serving the public, and will embrace that responsibility with a servant’s heart. Together we will make Rio Rancho a great place to live. Please visit walters4county.com for further information about my thoughts and experiences or call me at 710-6350 with your questions and concerns.

2. 35-plus years of public sector leadership experience including 29-plus years in U.S. Air Force (primarily law enforcement, inspector general and commanding officer positions). Numerous local, state and national leadership roles including: Committee vice chair, Rio Rancho Vision 2020 Plan; mayor’s transition team; co-creator NM Quality Awards; elected personnel committee chair, First Baptist Church Rio Rancho (six years); and co-led RRHS RAM Advisory Council (four years).

3. Meeting the basic infrastructure and related needs of residents, such as ensuring sustainable quality water; efficient roadways; affordable and reliable public transportation; effective drainage systems; waste management and safe and secure neighborhoods. We need a clearly articulated vision via a comprehensive strategic plan to identify basic infrastructure needs and prioritize future actions to be taken that includes smart partnership and truly engaged citizens.

4. In addition to the strategic plan creation, I would continue Rio Puerco Basin water desalination testing and work to resurrect the stalled US 550 Connectivity Study. I would also advocate for county officials to work with developers, business owners, current residents, environmentalists and others to help guide the location of new construction, thereby minimizing the cost of infrastructure while also protecting our natural environment.

District 5

Leonard Armijo, Republican

No reply recieved

 

Darryl Madalena, Democrat

1. With my cousin, Joshua Madalena, vacating his seat, I felt the time was right for me to step in. My father, State Rep. James R. Madalena and I had discussed running for the commission since I graduated college in 2005. With this election year being the biggest and most influential in my life, the time was right for some youth to enter the political scene.

2. I was formerly an appraiser for the county so I have seen and worked with the current commission and the current county staff. Along with my father being in the state Legislature for more than 20 years, I practically grew up at the Roundhouse, learning from my father and the other representatives how they talk, think and work alongside each other.

3. Infrastructure is a big issue facing the rural areas of Sandoval County. Five commissioners have to look at how we can improve infrastructure from monies allocated from not only the county, but alongside state and if possible federal funding as well. All three entities have to work together to ensure that we provide services to all residents of the county.

4. I think that infrastructure should also be looked at in how we provide services in rural and urban areas. Rio Rancho is growing and has a high demand for services, but we cannot only concentrate on them. We also have to look at how we can improve services in rural areas of the county. We need a balance on providing equal services in Sandoval County.

County Clerk

Questions

1. What are your top three priorities?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What specific actions would you take to ensure that voters have confidence in the election process?

 

Sally Padilla, Democrat (Incumbent)

No reply received.

Mary Kwapich, Republican

1. I will institute office hours from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. and allow employees flex time and/or a 10 hour a day, four day work schedule. I will work closely with our Native American, municipal and county communities to see that their needs are met on election issues. Lastly, I would operate a congenial and efficient office to serve all residents of the county

2. My proven management skills to run a smooth, effective office. I used those skills serving as county probate judge for eight years. When I took over the office, approximately 60 probate cases were being filed per year in the court. When I left, approximately 300 cases were being filed annually. The probate court was open daily, while I served, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

3. I plan to have a very open office allowing citizens the opportunity to observe the entire election process. Personally, I’d like to see young, newly registered voters being encouraged to take the training and working the election polls to learn the process.

County Treasurer

Questions

1. What are your top three priorities?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What improvements would you make to the Treasurer’s office to make it more user-friendly?

 

Lorraine Dominguez, Democrat (Incumbent)

1. I will continue to collect and distribute money from property taxes to all government agencies and special districts in a timely manner by complying with state statutes. I will continue to protect your investments and banking funds so they are secure and accessible through frequent monitoring and oversight. In addition, the county’s holdings will remain diversified to include various banks within the county.

2. I have four years experience as your Sandoval County treasurer, 20 years in financial and budgetary supervision, and 30 years in management and leadership. I effectively manage an investment portfolio of over $21,500,000 and collections of approximately $73M annually. I established the first County Investment Committee to oversee and improve banking relationships, investment activity, office procedures, and collections.   

3. The staff will continue to receive computer, financial, and customer service training to maintain quality taxpayer service and accountability. In 2006, Internet thieves tried to steal approximately $242,000 of taxpayer money, but newly implemented procedures prevented the loss of these funds. Internal computer security controls will continue to be monitored and updated and standard operating procedures will continue to be enforced and revised as needed.

 

Charles Mellon, Republican

1. My highest priority is to bring transparency to the county treasurer’s office. The goal is to post online the item-by-item expenditures of the county government so that any interested citizen could review them. The second goal is to bring a proactive attitude to the office with the goal of informing the county commission and public about pending financial issues before they become problems. The third goal is to bring an attitude of frugality to the office by refusing the use of a county vehicle, not traveling at taxpayer expense and not increasing the number of employee positions.

2. An individual seeking the office of county treasurer should have a history that demonstrates public trust. I am a licensed physician, a former university professor and a former assistant medical director for the Department of Corrections — all vetted positions of public trust. I have financial and managerial skills honed from operating a medical practice, running small businesses and managing federal and private research grants.

3. I would promote the attitude that we are public servants and we work for the people of the county. The office would be organized from top to bottom with the primary goal of meeting the needs of the public. We would strive to fully inform the public about their rights within the tax collection process. Finally, every effort would be made to facilitate full access to public records.

 

Supreme Court

Questions:

1. Why are you seeking this position?

2. What makes you qualified to hold this position?

3. What ethical practices are necessary to keep the judiciary independent of political influence?

 

Charles Daniels, Democrat

Justice Daniels is running unopposed for retention on the Supreme Court and did not reply.

 

Patricio Serna, non-partisan (retention)

1. To render justice by continuing to serve the people of the State of New Mexico, in deciding cases timely, fairly and impartially, based on the law, free of political or other influences.

2. My education and experience. B.A. degee — College of St. Joseph on the Rio Grande; J.D. degee — Univerty of Denver School of Law; L.L.M degree — Harvard Law School. Assistant Attorney General — four years; Private Practice — six years; District Court Judge — 1985-1996, four years as Chief Judge; Supreme Court Justice since December 1996; Chief Justice, 2001-2002; currently Senior Justice.

3. The critical components of judicial independence are fairness, impartiality, integrity, professionalism, and courage. Judicial independence must also encompass judicial accountability. An independent judge rules fairly and impartially, free from extraneous influences and personal beliefs, and immune to outside pressure.