Azar Rangel Withdraws from Consideration for Alamogordo City Commission District 5 Appointment

Alamogordo, N.M. — Eleazar “Azar” Rangel, one of four applicants seeking appointment to the vacant District 5 seat on the Alamogordo City Commission, has formally withdrawn from contention, citing a new professional opportunity that will require extensive travel.

Rangel via a spokesman told AlamogordoTownNews.org he stepped back out of respect for the residents of District 5, explaining that he could not commit to the level of time and presence the role deserves.

“I did not want to contend for a position that I may not be able to give 100% of the time it deserves out of respect for the citizens of District 5,” Rangel said via a spokesman in his withdrawal message, noting that the demands of his new job would limit his availability due to potential extensive travel.

Despite withdrawing, Rangel emphasized that he and his wife remain deeply committed to the community—particularly to Alamogordo MainStreet and the neighborhoods of District 5, where they have lived since 2021. “He and his wife remain committed to the community and most especially Alamogordo MainStreet and District 5 of which they call home and are proudly invested in,” his spokesman stated. 

A Candidate Focused on Service and Transparency

In written responses submitted prior to his withdrawal, Rangel described himself not as a politician but as “a concerned citizen” motivated by faith‑based values and a desire to give back. “I was raised with Christian values that showed me that ‘I am blessed, to be a blessing,’” he wrote.

Rangel highlighted his service on nonprofit boards—including White Sands Habitat for Humanity and championing the mission of Alamogordo MainStreet—as key experience preparing him for civic leadership. He also noted his familiarity with public‑sector budgeting from his work with the El Paso Independent School District in the past.

On issues facing the city, Rangel expressed support for:

• Fair but fiscally responsible first‑responder contract negotiations, saying the city must “take care of our First Responders, but also protect the interests of our city.”

• Greater transparency, arguing that “normal city business should always be conducted in the open,” with executive sessions used only when necessary to protect sensitive information.

• Addressing affordable housing pressures, including concerns about gentrification and investor‑driven price escalation.

• Strengthening partnerships to support Holloman Air Force Base, including outreach to larger military‑focused housing developers.

He also praised the work of former District 5 Commissioner Sharon McDonald, and hopes whomever is selected carries on her dedication and level of professionalism. 

Commitment to Community Continues

Although Rangel will not move forward in the appointment process, he made clear that his dedication to Alamogordo remains unchanged. He and his wife, both local business owners, plan to continue their involvement in civic and economic development efforts, especially through Alamogordo MainStreet.

The Alamogordo City Commission is scheduled to hear public presentations from the remaining candidates for the District 5 appointment at its February 24, 2026 meeting.

More News from Alamogordo

• Q&A Interview: Al Hernandez for Alamogordo City Commission District 5 Part 3 in our series of candidates to be appointed to district 5 city commission
• District 5 Candidate Shelley Dowhanik-Baron Details Experience and Priorities in Exclusive Q&A 2nd in our 4 part series on district 5 candidates to be voted on by the commission for appointment.