Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

Candidates square off in radio forum

CLOVIS — Justin Hummer said he plans to retire from the military in the next three years and appreciates Clovis’ “small town feel” with a few bigger city amenities. He said he hopes to contribute to developing Clovis’ industry and quality-of-life for the sake of the community and his family.

Rube Render described himself as a “conservative, pro-life, pro-second amendment, small-government person,” and an active citizen in the 16 years since he's lived in Clovis.

The District 4 city commission candidates were among those who turned out Tuesday for a 90-minute discussion of city issues aired live by host KTQM radio.

Render and Hummer are the only candidates seeking to succeed incumbent Tom Martin, who did not seek re-election.

Also in attendance at Tuesday's forum: Gary Elliott (unopposed in District 2), Fidel Madrid (District 3) and Jan Garrett (unopposed as municipal judge).

Madrid, the incumbent in his district, is being challenged by Jose Griego and David Bryant, who did not attend the forum.

The election is March 6. Early voting is already under way.

Hummer and Render each opened their remarks by wishing well of their opponent, an act of civility applauded by moderator Grant McGee.

The two took slightly different stances on another item on Tuesday’s ballot: proposed property tax hikes to fund three different general obligation (GO) bonds supporting projects for infrastructure, senior centers and wellness centers.

“I believe the bond issue is right where it should be,” Render said, leaving the topic to the voter. “I think it was a good idea to put it (on the ballot).”

Hummer said he was concerned it was “too much at one time” for citizens to decide Tuesday on all three bonds, and instead recommended seeking funding from an increase to the Gross Receipts Tax.

Both men, along with the commissioners present, acknowledged the importance of considering the preciousness of funds relative to many important projects in the city’s short and long-term future.

“We have needs and wants,” Render said. “We should validate and prioritize legitimate needs and put the wants on the back burner. “

Hummer referred to the importance of getting moving on infrastructure projects, as the need will remain but costs will likely only go up.

“The more we put it off the more expensive it’s going to be,” he said. “We need to do it while it’s within our reach.”

Also at the political forum Tuesday:

• Garrett stressed the importance of civic engagement and commended those hoping to serve the city.

“I can’t think of any reason anyone would want to do that job except to serve the people,” she said. “But it’s distressing and sad to me how many people don’t vote.”

• Candidates addressed a question about if they would support raises to city commissioners' salaries.

Hummer noted the general truth of the statement that “you get what you pay for,” while Render said he would not support raises. Madrid said he did not go into the position for money, and Elliott said he was content with the pay where it was.

• As for water security in coming years, Hummer emphasized the importance of an effective water plan in order to keep the city attractive to possible industry or business coming into the town. Render said he did not believe anyone was exactly certain how much water is left for the area, but that the city should be wary of doomsday predictions that disincentive newcomers from taking root here.