Las Cruces Mayoral Candidates Exchange Words

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The exchange of words has begun in the race for mayor of Las Cruces.

Incumbent Mayor Bill Mattiace is seeking re- election. He became the first elected mayor of Las Cruces when he won four years ago. His challenger back then, City Councilman Ken Miyagashima, will also run again.

Mattiace denies Miyagashima’s accusation that the city’s growth is booming out of control. “And for someone to come along and start tearing down what this city has accomplished simply because they want to get elected is an insult to our citizens,” Mattiace said.

“All I’m proposing is a different agenda than the current mayor, and what he sees. The direction of the city and how he would like to deal with his representation. I believe representation through all inclusion, and that is both in the public sector, governmental sectors, as opposed to a few special interests.”

A third candidate – retired scientist Jon Mercurio has also announced he will run for mayor. Las Cruces residents will cast their ballots on November 6th.