El Mitote: Political Entertainment
Unofficially and according to unscientific polls—anecdotal evidence and gossip—the Town of Taos is a hotbed of political entertainment right now. The number of candidates for Mayor is burgeoning and the bookmakers say bets are being laid by observers at the Walmart coffee shop and among the early morning hangers on at the Quality Inn or between the curmudgeons at McDonald’s and during conversation between the diners at Silva’s table at Guadalajara north. Unlike the anti-government Tea Party hacks in Congress, Taosenos possess an undying passion for local politics and their governors.
Rumors say incumbent mayor, Darren Cordova will throw down again. Based on his sterling record, the Legend is sure of finishing in the top four. To the best of Friction’s knowledge, Taos County Commission Chair Dan Barrone is ready to throw his hat into the ring and don his work gloves. According to insiders, former mayor, Fred Peralta, plans to run, as does young Darien Fernandez.
So far Jeff Northrup has not ruled out a run for mayor but, what with two hundred voters still following his tweets, the popular sign man and anti-thuggery advocate, could throw his support behind the winner in a four-man race.
Due to what many consider to be a disastrous administration, the incumbent, despite his reputation as a “Legend” and the occasional insult aimed at the general public on his radio station, could have a difficult time finishing second or even third. Fred Peralta’s association with the current administration—the Oscar and Brian show—displays a distinct lack of judgment. If Fred jumps in expect the historic swimming pool and affordable housing scandals to become news stories. Darien Fernandez’s lack of exposure and experience could doom his candidacy but he should be encouraged to represent the younger generation.
It would seem, despite their apathy, that Townie Taosenos would be sick of the chaos, busted budgets, decaying infrastructure, attacks on Taos County—annexation—and the general exploitation of the taxpayer—the Command Center—in favor of paying off special interests like the trustees and CEO of the KCEC Coop et al.
Why only last week the health department, reportedly, closed Graham’s Grill due to problems with the Town’s sewer and water infrastructure. Town crews and private contractors have been working like mad in the alley between north Plaza and the Dunn House to correct the problem. Attorneys, we’re told, are looking at filing a lawsuit on behalf of Graham’s against the Town of Taos for lost revenues because the Town has ignored the problem for years despite complaints by merchants.
Most merchants who complain don’t vote in town elections. But if you plan to live in Taos at some point, you can, according to New Mexico election laws, register to vote in town. Election laws are ambiguous at best. But you can’t vote twice.
A sample of Town employees suggests the right candidate could pick up a quick 100 votes at Town Hall from the work force due to their dislike for Town Manager Oscar Rodriguez and Attorney Brian James. Parciantes on the Spring Ditch, Sanchez and Moreno ditches, and all the other closed or blocked or abused acequias can be counted on to express their opinions of the administration.
So incumbent councilors and potential candidates like Mike Silva, Rudy Abeyta, Cordova and Peralta are going to hear about their deeds of the last four to fourteen years. It takes a heckuva council and mayor to ruin a village but these guys did their best. Who spent the rainy day fund? And why is Amos y La Familia responsible for law enforcement policy in the community? We’re only asking.
Fresh faces in the town council race include Fritz Hahn and Judi Cantu, the latter barely lost last time, and activist Jerome Lucero might run—all good candidates with a “hands off the public purse” attitude.
In Questa several candidates are talking about running for mayor but we can only remember a couple of names—possibly Brent Jaramillo and County Commissioner Larry Sanchez. I have no inkling about Questa politics though I know they like to fight—literally and figuratively. Maybe they will begin to unite against a new foe as the Abeyta signatories come in quest of Questa’s water.
Rumor says democrats Miguel Romero and Felipe Cordova might run for commissioner if Larry Sanchez defers and runs for a position with the village of Questa. But if Virgil Martinez runs on the republican side for commissioner all bets are off. Virgil is a winner of the first rank and we all miss him at the county.
Former Magistrate Judge Betty Martinez is running hard for sheriff and nobody is betting against her except a few deputies and former law enforcement officials. While others talk or sleep, Judge Betty counts votes. You got to win the campaign first and Judge Betty has never lost an election because she works it.
In other county news both Commissioner Joe Mike Duran and Dan Barrone are term limited so aspiring politicos will have an opportunity in Penasco and the area that includes the Town of Taos. So far the whisperers are quiet. But county residents have a very good commission right now and should pay attention.
Much will change between now and the town filing date in January. Everyone’s listening, watching, and waiting.