Valencia County Treasurer

Michelle D. Tafoya

Age: 66

Occupation: Retired Civil Service

Education: Belen High School graduate; attended TVI and UNM

Previous elected political offices: None

Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”

1. The treasurer’s office is responsible for collecting property taxes and managing government funds. How does your prior experience prepare you for that role?

“Personally, I’ve managed my household well and have always lived frugally. I’ve worked at both state and federal jobs and retired from a career at Kirtland, working for military and civilian scientists and engineers. I know planning, protocol, reporting, deadlines, mentorship, respecting the chain of command and giving clear directions. Follow-up and personal accountability are essential. Collaboration, innovation, sourcing for new revenues, team building, maintaining respectful and professional approaches, and cordial service are my goals.”

2. How will you improve operations at the treasurer’s office?

“Communication is key to the success of every organization. I plan on holding weekly status meetings, listening to the staff to get a sense of each individual’s work style and goals, cultivating a sense of community, safety and professionalism and exploring opportunities for them to expand their abilities to bigger responsibilities and higher paying jobs. I like the idea of a suggestion box for the public and staff. Feedback is essential to a well-run office.”

3. How will you work with other Valencia County offices?

“We’ve elected legislators plus our county is spread across two congressional districts, so additional bonus! Working together with them to bring in the funding we deserve is my personal goal. Local officials must unite as one team to submit plans and funding requests for building our critical projects. We need more first responders and resource officers in every school. We must submit top-notch proposals for funding through our legislators to enhance Valencia County’s portfolio.”

Ron Saiz (I)

Age: 58

Occupation: Valencia County Treasurer

Education: Los Lunas High School and community college of the U.S. Air Force

Previous elected political offices: None

Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a DWI or a felony in New Mexico or in another state? “No.”

1. The treasurer’s office is responsible for collecting property taxes and managing government funds. How does your prior experience prepare you for that role?

“I currently hold the position of treasurer, and understand its day-to-day operations and its importance to the citizens of Valencia County. My military leadership and experience in financial management promote transparency and integrity with taxpayer money. The Valencia County Treasurer’s Office team takes great pride in our accomplishments and is committed to providing residents of the county with the exceptional level of service they are entitled to.”

2. How will you improve operations at the treasurer’s office?

“One way to improve operations is by establishing clear guidelines and protocols for financial transactions, reporting procedures and accurate record-keeping. We will continue to provide comprehensive training programs for all employees to enhance their skills and knowledge related to financial operations, compliance requirements, and the application of treasury tools and software.

“Also, we proactively identify and address challenges or inefficiencies and consistently review our operations to find areas for improvement.”

3. How will you work with other Valencia County offices?

“As the Valencia County treasurer, I engage proactively with other departments to ensure a cohesive approach to county issues. It is crucial to have clear communication channels to facilitate information sharing. Each department has unique insights based on its specific functions, which can contribute to more informed and accurate decision-making. I will actively seek input from other departments, and align efforts towards common county goals and objectives.”