County clerk

Following Doña Ana County Clerk Scott Krahling’s abrupt resignation Wednesday, county commissioners must select a replacement as soon as possible.

“It’s critical that we move expeditiously because of the fact that there is an election in November,” said Doña Ana County Manager Fernando Macias.

Macias told ABC-7 that Deputy County Clerk Lindsey Bachman is more than capable to lead the office in the interim period after Krahling’s departure on Friday, September 7th. He said the county commission will then begin the search for a permanent replacement, who will lead the office for the next two-and-a-half years.

“To me, it’s unfortunate that the resignation is occurring,” Macias said. “Certainly, Mr. Krahling was very committed to improving the electoral process. I don’t think anyone can challenge that.”

As ABC-7 reported, Krahling and his former Deputy County Clerk, Rose Ann Vasquez, were the subject of a county investigation. County spokesman Jess Williams said he would not discuss the specifics of the investigation “until we have the final report.”

Macias said he is confident in the integrity of Doña Ana County’s electoral system.

“One individual does not make up the entire effort that it takes to run an election,” Macias said.

The county will be accepting applications, to include a letter of interest and a current resume, to the Doña Ana County Human Resources Department. The deadline is Wednesday, September 5th. Applicants should attend the September 11th Doña Ana County Commission meeting in-person.

“I’m not concerned because the county government has the strength,” Macias said. “The county clerk’s office has the strength to obtain and achieve a very appropriate outcome to the November election.”

KVIA 2018