Alamogordo NM
12-08-2025 5:21am

Monday 6 pm Voices of Alamogordo, Dec. 8th, Explores Leadership and the Mayor’s Role

Alamogordo, NM – December 8, 2025 – 2nd Life Media’s AlamogordoTownNews.org proudly unveils a new six-month series of monthly community salons aimed at fostering open dialogue, boosting civic literacy, and building stronger connections between residents and the leaders shaping Alamogordo’s future.

The free public events will take place each month at 6:00 p.m. at Otero Arts, located at 1118 Indiana Avenue (at 12th Street). Styled as intimate “salons” rather than traditional town halls, the gatherings will blend expert presentations with guided, respectful conversation in a welcoming atmosphere.

Inaugural Salon Tonight: “How Do We Help Our New Mayor Succeed?”

The series kicks off tonight, Monday, December 8, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. with a timely discussion titled “How do we help our new mayor succeed—and what does shared leadership look like in Alamogordo?”

Featured guests include:

• Acting City Manager Dr. Stephanie Hernandez

• Outgoing Mayor Susan Payne

• Incoming Mayor-Elect Sharon McDonald 

The evening will offer residents a clear explanation of Alamogordo’s commission -manager form of government, explore the distinct roles of the mayor and city manager, and invite participants to share their hopes and ideas for the incoming administration.

Key discussion prompts will include:

• What do we want the new administration to know about our community’s priorities?

• How can citizens become active co-creators in Alamogordo’s success?

• What practices or “civic rituals” could strengthen trust and transparency?

• How do we ensure diverse voices shape city decisions?

Why Understanding the Commission-Manager System Matters

Alamogordo operates under a professional commission -manager government, a structure used by thousands of U.S. municipalities to combine democratic representation with expert administration.

• The Mayor serves as the ceremonial leader, presides over commission meetings, and acts as the public face of the city, but does not manage daily operations.

• The City Manager, appointed by the commission, functions as the city’s CEO—overseeing departments, budgets, staff, and the implementation of commission-approved policies.

This separation is intentional: elected officials set vision and policy, while a trained professional ensures consistent, non-partisan management—especially important during transitions in elected leadership.

A New Model for Community Connection

“These salons are about more than just talking—they’re about listening, learning, and leaving with clearer pathways to get involved,” said Chris Edwards, publisher of AlamogordoTownNews.org and 2nd Life Media. “We want every resident to understand how our local government works and feel confident bringing their voice to the table.”

Each monthly salon will spotlight a different theme—ranging from government transparency and the role of local media to health, wellness, economic development, and community priorities—always featuring relevant experts, officials, and community influencers.

By creating regular, face-to-face opportunities for meaningful exchange, the series aims to build a more informed, empowered, and connected Alamogordo.

The December 8 salon is free and open to all.  Doors open at 5:45 p.m.

For more information or to suggest future topics, visit AlamogordoTownNews.org or follow the publication on social media.

Event Details

What: Community Salon – “Helping Our New Mayor Succeed”

When: Monday, December 8, 2025, 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Where: Otero Arts, 1118 Indiana Avenue at 12th Street

Cost: Free and open to the public

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