New Doa Ana County manager addresses commissioners for first time

Fernando Macias returned to Doña Ana County as manager for the second time in his career and addressed commissioners on Tuesday.

“I was looking for an opportunity to get back involved in the more public dialogue,” said Macias, a former Third Judicial District Judge. “As a judge, you live a very restricted life. You’re there in the courtroom, you’re handling cases. But you can never make public comment… This gives me the freedom to do that.”

Macias has served in all three branches of state government: As county manager from from 1997 to 2000, a district judge from 2006 to 2017 and a democratic state senator in the New Mexico legislature from 1985 – 2000.

“What it gives you is a background,” Macias said. “Serving as a state senator, serving as a judge, serving as an executive including as a county manager, it gives you a much broader perspective of the issues.”

Macias addressed his focus and goals as county manager.

“There are a multitude of issues,” Macias. “They range the full gamut, compensation of employees, road development in the community, economic development. How do we create more jobs? Where are those opportunities in the future? There’s a full array of issues that are dozens of issues that have to be addressed as early as possible.”

Macias was signed to a four-year contract. His salary is $160,000 a year.