Four spots up for election in county government

Four offices will be up for election on June 5 in Quay County government.

Potential candidates for these offices must file their declaration for candidacy between 9 a.m and 5 p.m., on Tuesday, at the Quay County Clerk's Office, 300 South Third St.

The filing fee for county office is $50.

The offices include:

• County Commission District 1: Current Commissioner Bill Curry is term-limited and can't seek re-election.

Tucumcari Fire Chief Mike Cherry has announced his intentions to seek the District 1 commission seat.

"I've never run for a public office," Cherry said. "I was approached by a few people who asked if I'd be interested in running for commissioner Curry's seat as he will term out."

Cherry said he decided to declare his candidacy after he spoke to several people including Curry, who supported his interest in running for the commission seat.

"I am very familiar with the New Mexico Municipal League," Cherry said. "I have also worked with the association of counties in the past."

• County Commission District 2: Incumbent Robert Lopez intends to run for re-election.

"I have enjoyed serving the residents of Quay County," Lopez said. "We have done some good while I have been a commissioner and I'd like to see them completed."

Lopez said his experience as a commissioner will help in making tough decisions if the economic situation doesn't change.

"I want to help my fellow commissioners work through these tough times," Lopez said.

Lopez will be challenged for his commission seat by Sue Dowell, a former Tucumcari school teacher.

"I have a real interest in the people of Quay County," Dowell said. "I want to see our county thrive and improve the quality of life here."

Dowell said it is important for elected officials to work together and listen to the citizens," Dowell said.

• County Clerk: Like Curry, current Clerk Ellen White is term-limited. Chief Deputy County Clerk Veronica Olguin Marez said she is interested in seeking the position of County Clerk.

"I want to continue the excellent service, which Ellen White has provided the residents of Quay County over the past eight years," Marez said.

Marez has served as the chief deputy clerk the past seven years.

• County Treasurer: Incumbent Nadine Angel will be seeking re-election. Nobody has announced intentions to challenge Angel as of Monday.

Candidates will draw for ballot positions at 5 p.m., Tuesday at the county clerk's office.

The last day to register to vote and be eligible for the primary election is May 8. Early and absentee voting begins on May 8, with the election being held on June 5.

Information: 461-0510.