The Independent reached out to all of the candidates running for Santa Fe County Commission District 3 with a questionnaire. Only one candidate, Camilla Bustamante, responded. Her answers are presented here in full, as written by her. District 3 includes parts of the Edgewood and Stanley area.
Also in the race are incumbent Rudy Nelson Garcia and Chris Rivera, both fellow Democrats. There are no Republicans running for the position.
The Primary Election will be June 7, and early voting is ongoing now. New in this election, voters may change voter registration at the polling location, to vote in any party’s primary. Visit the Secretary of State’s website for details. For Santa Fe County polling locations, follow this link.
Camilla Bustamante – D
Why are you running for County Commission?
I have spent the majority of my adult life in community service and have been successful in the execution of projects that can directly benefit Santa Fe County. In my professional capacity I worked on projects that address affordable housing, water quality, energy and community safety as a community college dean and emergency first responder. I am a listener and am prepared to use my skill-sets to help the people of Santa Fe County District 3 and will be available to the people of Edgewood.
What strengths do you bring to the table if elected?
My greatest strength is that I get things done. I am a listener and I am prepared to follow through. I am committed to addressing the community’s concerns in a timely manner. As a resident in a District 3 rural community, I am committed to working on issues that protect our rural quality of life and supporting smart economic development that is aligned with the values in each area in our district.
What weaknesses do you bring to the table if elected?
I do not see having weaknesses when elected. Rather, I like any person who has sought to serve their community as an elected official, will face the challenge of working to satisfy “everyone” while understanding that we have diverse geographic and residential make up.
What is your top priority if elected?
My top priority when elected is to ensure that the Santa Fe County Community Plans in District 3 are current in all areas where there are residences, and that pathways for support from the County are clear. The priority issues continue to be water, housing and infrastructure, and public safety. Working with our county resources and residents to make sure all are prepared to mitigate fire risks and know how to respond in the event of a fire has become more evident than ever.
What is the biggest issue facing the county right now and what is your proposed solution?
The biggest issue facing Santa Fe County is water. As the candidate with the most experience in this area I know that this issue requires involvement at many levels, from grass-roots, household use, and government. There will need to be varied and diverse solutions to address the unique issues in each water basin in District 3.
Why are you the best person for the job?
I am the best person for the job because my work experience, rural roots and values have prepared me to address the issues of most importance in our area. I have fresh ideas and will follow through where others have not.
Have you ever been convicted of a crime? If yes, provide details.
No
