County Tries Conducting Business As Usual After Gandara’s Arrest

County Commissioner Willie Gandara Jr.’s arrest on federal drug charges Wednesday night was what just about everyone was talking about Thursday at the El Paso County Courthouse, where Commissioners court held a previously scheduled meeting without Gandara in attendance.

Commissioners court tried to conduct business as usual, making their way through several important items. But with Gandara in jail and Commissioner Dan Haggerty out of town, the normally five-member court was down to just three, just enough for a quorum.

While commissioners met down the hall, the Precinct No. 3 office door was closed. It was unlocked, but there was no one inside. But ABC-7 did find a federal search warrant taped to Gandara’s office door.

“I know there was an intent to search late (Wednesday) night,” said County Judge Veronica Escobar, who appeared visibly affected by the arrest. “I’m worried about the impact this is going to have on the community I love. While I know the public is distressed, I hope that they at the very least are able to separate what is happening with one person versus the great work that’s happening.”

County Attorney Jo Anne Bernal said Gandara, who has 10 months remaining in his term, will remain in office until he is found guilty or resigns. ABC-7 asked Escobar if she’d ask for Gandara’s resignation.

“That’s not my place to do,” she said. “I’m assuming Commissioner Gandara will join us at Monday’s meeting and thereafter. If not we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.”

Commissioner Anna Perez said she was surprised by the arrest, but prepared to deal with it.

“The weight of the county on my shoulders just got a little heavier,” Perez said. “We need to continue to carry the county, that’s our responsibility.”

Commissioner Sergio Lewis called it shocking.

“But county government will continue to conduct county business and move forward,” Lewis said.

Escobar then added, “I do want the public to rest assured, this has nothing to do with the county of El Paso.”

Commissioner Dan Haggerty was out of town Thursday but told ABC-7 by phone, “I heard they pretty much caught (Gandara) red-handed and it breaks my heart.”