Civic Leadership in Crisis: Alamogordo Chamber and MainGate United Face Call for Independent Audit and Leadership Overhaul

ALAMOGORDO, NM — Amid growing public scrutiny and operational dysfunction, the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce and its affiliated civic arm, MainGate United, are facing renewed calls for transparency, accountability, and structural reform. Community leaders and stakeholders are urging a full independent audit and leadership reset to restore trust and realign the organizations with their original missions.

At the heart of the concern is the Chamber’s failure to provide clear financial oversight and strategic direction, police investigations into secretive recordings of board members, compounded by MainGate United’s recent pause—a civic group once celebrated for its defense advocacy and economic development efforts tied to Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range. Details of the public raised concerns of the Chambers management of its finances and overall operations were highlighted in recent news stories and in a response by the Chamber Board President in the Daily News that was defensive, and threatening to those that question them, instead of outlining a proactive position to clear up public and member concerns.

Proposed Path to Rebuild Trust and Function

To address the crisis, a coalition of concerned citizens is proposing a multi-step recovery plan:

• Independent Third-Party Audit: A full financial and governance review of both the Chamber and MainGate United, conducted by an external auditor and leadership consultant. The audit would examine board policies, spending practices, and organizational oversight.

• Sacramento Mountain Foundation Oversight: The independent 3rd Party audit and consultant selection would be funded by the Sacramento Mountain Foundation, a respected regional nonprofit known for its stewardship and civic integrity. Findings would be presented in a public report to the Alamogordo City Commission.

• National Search for New Leadership: A professional search firm would be retained to identify and recruit a new Executive Director with proven experience in nonprofit management, civic engagement, and military-community partnerships.

• Leadership Accountability: Current Executive Director Jarrett Perry is being urged to resign for the good of the community, allowing space for new leadership to emerge and rebuild public confidence.

Why It Matters

The Chamber and MainGate United have long served as vital connectors between Alamogordo’s business community, military installations, and civic institutions. Their decline has left a leadership vacuum at a time when federal defense dollars, small business support, and regional coordination are more critical than ever.

Without swift and transparent action, Alamogordo risks losing its voice in state and federal conversations, its credibility with partners, and its momentum in economic development.

A Call to Courage and Renewal

This is not just a moment of reckoning—it’s a chance to rebuild. Alamogordo deserves civic institutions that reflect its values: integrity, service, and unity. By embracing independent oversight and bold leadership change, the community can reclaim its legacy and chart a stronger, more inclusive future.

“Accountability is not punishment—it’s the first step toward healing. Let Alamogordo lead again.” - Chris Edwards former Chamber Member and Downtown Business Growth Advocate

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