Editor:
A recent change in management within Rio Arriba County government has caused quite a stir. Tomas Campos, outgoing County Manager, successfully oversaw many projects during his tenure. He is to be commended for his service.
Our Rio Arriba County Commissioners have to make difficult decisions. On May 3, by a majority vote, a decision was made not to renew the current manager’s contract. That was their prerogative. The same majority voted in the positive to appoint Lucia Sanchez as Interim County Manager. Concerns regarding transparency in the appointment process and executive session have been expressed. However, discussions stemming from an executive session, just like a legislative caucus meeting, are by all intents and purposes, not privy to the public.
But, most disturbing in the Rio Grande SUN May 6 edition was the editorial. I, as well as others, were shocked by your statements regarding the gender and competence of the interim county manager. You state, “If she is qualified to do the job, she enters with a couple of strikes against her…That will be tough. What may prove tougher will be leading County government as a woman…”
I had to take a deep breath and remind myself that this is still the 21st century. Women have fought for equality in the workplace for decades. We can see that this fight is not over. Making gender a point of contention is unacceptable and not newsworthy. Women have taken notice.
Joann Salazar
Española