Town of Peralta mayor, council and judge candidates

Mayor

Joseph P. Chavez

Age: 56

Current occupation: Retired warden Valencia County Detention Center

Highest level of education: Los Lunas High School graduate, continuing education classes at CNM in criminology

Previously held elected office: No

Have you ever filed for bankruptcy and if so, explain the circumstances. No.

Have you ever been arrested, charged with or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain. No.

1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified for this position?

“My military service as a U.S. Marine, 19 years in the N.M. Department of Corrections leaving as an administrative law judge, 10 years Valencia County Detention Center warden. I’ve managed large budgets, procurements and staff, my relationships with local municipalities will help in collaborations, ensuring safety and financial accountability as mayor.”

2. What are the most important challenges facing the community, and how do you propose to address them?

“I won’t make speculations to know what challenges Peralta is facing until I am the mayor. I will collaborate with citizens, staff, governing body and attorney to identify and address challenges. It’s essential all voices, including those less comfortable speaking up, to be included in discussions to enhance Peralta’s future.”

3. What new services are needed in the town of Peralta?

“Establish dedicated law enforcement. I aim to advance Mayor Bryan Olguin’s vision, and with the foundation he has provided, I will continue collaborating with the current governing body to pursue this for the town of Peralta in the near future.”

4. The town of Peralta allows some fireworks, specifically aerials, that surrounding municipalities do not. Would you consider aligning Peralta’s fireworks regulations with those of other jurisdictions in Valencia County?

“Yes, I would consider aligning Peralta’s fireworks regulations with those of surrounding municipalities to maintain consistency and safety.”

Town Council

Claudio Moya Jr.

Age: 71

Current occupation: Semi-retired from the water well business

Highest level of education: Graduated from high school

Previously held elected office: Peralta Town Council

Have you ever filed for bankruptcy and if so, explain the circumstances. No

Have you ever been arrested, charged with or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain. No

1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified for this position?

“I’ve served four years in planning and zoning and two terms on the council in the town of Peralta. I attended the municipal league trainings.”

2. What are the most important challenges facing the community, and how do you propose to address them?

“Right now, we have planning problems. We have subdivisions, and the water is flooding in the valley, which is causing problems. That’s the biggest problem right now.”

3. What new services are needed in the town of Peralta?

“It would be nice to have our own police department, but I don’t know if that can happen yet. I would like to have water lines along the main corridor to be able to attract businesses, including restaurants.”

4. The town of Peralta allows some fireworks, specifically aerials, that surrounding municipalities do not. Would you consider aligning Peralta’s fireworks regulations with those of other jurisdictions in Valencia County?

“Right now, I’d rather not comment on that. I know it’s going to come out and we’ll do the right thing, but I’d rather not answer that right now.”

Randy A. Smith

Age: 66

Current occupation: Electrical contractor, owner of REC mini storage

Highest level of education: High school

Previously held elected office: Councilman (two terms)

Have you ever filed for bankruptcy and if so, explain the circumstances? No

Have you ever been arrested, charged with or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain. No

1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified for this position?

“Planning and zoning chairman for seven years, councilman for nine years.”

2. What are the most important challenges facing the community, and how do you propose to address them?

“New fire station, working with legislators for funding options. Finish remodeling the newly-purchased community center building and hiring a director. Making sure our P&Z and governing body is community and business friendly — appointing P&Z commissioners accordingly, encouraging fellow governing body members accordingly.”

3. What new services are needed in the town of Peralta?

“Primary focus is on the services that can be provided to the community from the new community center — programs for seniors and activities for youth.”

4. The town of Peralta allows some fireworks, specifically aerials, that surrounding municipalities do not. Would you consider aligning Peralta’s fireworks regulations with those of other jurisdictions in Valencia County?

“No. I enjoy the Fiesta de Peralta fireworks show, and I believe the residents of Peralta should be able to celebrate the country’s independence, our veterans, New Year, graduations, etc. For many, that includes fireworks.”

Municipal Judge

Tracy Aragon

Age: 62

Current occupation: Director of radiology

Highest level of education: BA

Previously held elected office: Municipal court judge

Have you ever filed for bankruptcy and if so, explain the circumstances. No.

Have you ever been arrested, charged with or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain. No.

1. How can you ensure your fairness in adjudicating criminal cases?

“Fairness it about perspective. What is fair for one may not be fair for another. Making sure everyone feels they were truly heard and judged by the same rules. Not basing decisions on personal opinion. It’s like being an umpire. I do my best to make a fair call.”

2. What can the municipal court do to help ensure compliance of municipal ordinances?

“Educate and inform. A municipal ordinance requires clear governance and practical enforcement. Compliance is best achieved through a balance of education, engagement and fair enforcement. Not as a punishment but awareness. If all else fails then the court can step in with ordinance fines.”

3. Do you believe in alternative sentencing? If so, explain.

“Yes and no. Yes: I use alternative sentencing with my young defendants, focusing on educating and informing. I feel it’s important to establish good driving habits early. No: In this age of entitlement and disregard for consequence of one’s actions, alternative sentencing for most adults won’t be appreciated.”