Candidates for the Roswell City Council engaged in a lively debate on key local issues during the Leadership Roswell Alumni Association’s Candidate Forum held this past week. Five contested races in four wards are set to shape the city’s governance, with residents encouraged to familiarize themselves with their respective wards before the elections.
Ward 1 Candidates Discuss Community Assets and Challenges
In Ward 1, incumbent Cristina Arnold faced off against challenger Jeffrey Cabana, while a third candidate, Jerry Janow, was absent due to travel. Cabana highlighted the community’s people as both a significant asset and liability, stating, “I have never, ever in my life met a warmer and more welcoming community.” Arnold agreed, but emphasized the importance of the Roswell Air Center as a vital asset that, with appropriate investment, could generate additional revenue and jobs. She pointed out, however, that maintaining this resource is crucial to mitigating potential liabilities.
Both candidates addressed the pressing issues of homelessness and drug use. Arnold, who has a long-standing connection to Roswell, mentioned her involvement with the Chaves County Behavioral Health Council, working to create programs to assist individuals with mental health and substance abuse challenges. She noted the ongoing collaboration with the Eastern New Mexico Medical Center’s Sunrise Mental Health Center to address these concerns. In contrast, Cabana asserted that the responsibility for tackling these issues lies primarily with the community and its members, reflecting on his personal experiences with homelessness when he first arrived in Roswell over a decade ago.
Infrastructure and Economic Development Take Center Stage
In Ward 3, candidates Judy Stubbs, Kurt Gass, and Richard Hesse were asked about the most pressing needs within their ward. Gass criticized the city’s tendency to reject new business proposals, advocating for a more flexible approach to economic development. He shared a success story of a family-oriented entertainment business that adapted its plans to align with city requirements, underscoring the potential for growth.
Hesse raised concerns about the aging water infrastructure in the city, citing a recent incident where a water line burst in front of his home, leaving him without water for several hours. He echoed Gass’s call for improved economic development and emphasized the need for better facilities for youth and recreational activities. Stubbs, a former council member, emphasized the critical nature of infrastructure improvements, particularly following the recent flooding that has impacted many residents.
When discussing financial stability, the candidates addressed the recent increase in the gross receipts tax from approximately 7.89% to 8.27% to fund recovery efforts from the October 2024 flooding. Hesse expressed support for this measure, while Stubbs highlighted the importance of transparency in tax increases, advocating for temporary solutions with sunset clauses. Gass agreed, favoring economic development as a primary focus for enhancing the city’s financial footing.
Future Focus: Youth and Community Engagement
In the four-year seat for Ward 3, incumbent Edward Heldenbrand and challenger Kedrick Smith discussed the city’s most significant assets and liabilities. Heldenbrand lauded the airport as a critical physical asset and praised community resilience after recent disasters. He noted the success of events like the National Championship Air Races at the airport, which has garnered national attention.
Smith identified the lack of programming for youth and seniors as a major liability, advocating for more mentoring and leadership opportunities for young residents. He emphasized the importance of investing in the future of Roswell, rather than solely focusing on immediate concerns.
In the four-year seat for Ward 4, incumbent Robert Corn and challenger Emily Raquel Valencia discussed fiscal responsibility and public safety. Corn presented a special audit report indicating significant progress in reducing the city’s budget deficit from $26.6 million to $998,000. Valencia echoed the need for continued efforts towards a balanced budget and emphasized government transparency as a key focus of her campaign.
Both candidates acknowledged the challenges facing the Roswell Police Department regarding personnel losses to higher-paying agencies. While Corn highlighted recent increases in the police force, Valencia stressed the importance of advocating for officer welfare, ensuring they can support their families adequately.
In Ward 5, incumbent Angela Moore and challenger James Ridgway focused on enhancing public spaces and managing growth sustainably. Moore emphasized her commitment to preserving public safety and supporting local arts and culture. Ridgway expressed a desire for financial stewardship and community engagement, highlighting the need for transparency in city governance.
As the candidates prepare for the upcoming elections, community members are encouraged to participate in local governance discussions and to make informed decisions at the polls. Video footage of the forum is available on platforms like YouTube and through local radio stations, providing further insights into the candidates’ positions.
