Amid accusations of unlawful private meetings, New Mexico County identifies Chavez as a finalist

Santa Clara County Supervisor Cindy Chavez is running for a position as a county executive in New Mexico, facing controversies surrounding transparency and politicking. The selection process in Bernalillo County has been described as a “rocky road” by local Albuquerque television stations. Chavez’s finalist standing for San Diego County chief administrative officer was derailed after a sexual harassment scandal and other disputes.

The New Mexico Department of Justice accused the Bernalillo County Commission of violating state law in their search for the next county manager, prompting the process to be declared null and void until the issue was addressed. Commissioners were accused of violating the Open Meetings Act by engaging in private discussions that should have been public.

Despite these challenges, the commissioners held a public meeting to name the finalists and move forward with the selection process. The state investigation found that a rolling quorum had taken place among the commissioners, leading to corrective action being required. Chavez apologized for the situation and highlighted her experience and accomplishments during a public question-and-answer session.

Chavez’s salary for the position in Bernalillo County would be significantly less than what she would have earned in San Diego County. Despite facing setbacks and controversies, Chavez remains committed to seeking this new opportunity in her home state of New Mexico. The Bernalillo County commissioners are expected to make a decision on the new county manager by the end of the month.

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