Mayor, judge will seek re-election

PNT senior writer

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Two of six incumbents of the positions up for election in a March municipal election say they plan to seek re-election.

Portales Mayor Sharon King and Municipal Judge Barbara George said they plan to seek another term.

But three of the four Portales City Council incumbents say they are undecided they will run.

Ward A Councilor Antonio Salguero, Ward C Councilor Ronald Jackson and Ward D Councilor Dianne Parker aren’t sure if they will run again.

Ward B Councilor Oscar Robinson didn’t respond to telephone calls.

All candidates for the election must file Jan. 7 at the city clerk’s office.

George was appointed to the municipal judge seat in June by the City Council to replace retired Judge Fred Arnold. Prior to that, she has never served as municipal judge before, only as an alternate.

George, who is also the current probate judge, said the part-time job has allowed her to serve the community, which is why she is seeking re-election.

“You’re able to help some people and help people get back on track,” George said. “Of course you’re not able to get through to every person but it’s worth it.”

King announced her plans for re-election in October, a few months after she was diagnosed with myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells.

King said she’d like to serve four more years to see through projects and activities that affect the community, including the Ute Pipeline Project and the city’s new wastewater plant.

Parker said she’s undecided at this point but has enjoyed servicing the community through the council.

“There’s some things I’m interested in taking care of and getting done,” said Parker, who has served on the council about 22 years. “It’s something I enjoyed being a part of and being a voice for my constituents and I don’t know if I’m ready to get out of it yet.”

Jackson, who has served 12 years on the council, said he’s not prepared to make a decision on whether he’ll seek re-election.

Salguero also said he hasn’t made up his mind but expects to make a decision some time after Christmas.

Breakout

Important election dates to remember

• Filing day is Jan. 7, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the city clerk’s office.

• Filing day for write-in candidates is Jan. 14, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the city clerk’s office.

• Absentee voting begins Jan. 28.

• Early voting begins Feb. 12 at the city clerk’s office during regular business hours.

• Election day is 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 4.