District 5 Residents Invited to First‑Ever Public Forum for Appointment of City Commission Vacancy

ALAMOGORDO — District 5 residents will have a rare opportunity to meet and question applicants for the vacant Alamogordo City Commission seat during a public Meet‑and‑Greet and Candidate Forum scheduled for Thursday, February 19, 2026. The event, hosted by Mayor Sharon McDonald, marks the first time the city has opened the appointment process to direct public engagement.

The forum will take place from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Dudley School Community Center, located in the heart of District 5. In an effort to expand access and transparency, the event will also be narrated and livestreamed on alamogordotownnews.org and kalhradio.org, allowing residents across the city to participate remotely.

Residents may submit questions in advance or during the event, giving the public a meaningful role in shaping the conversation with those seeking to fill the seat.

The appointed commissioner will serve through December 31, 2027, a period expected to include major decisions on economic development, infrastructure upgrades, public safety initiatives, partnerships with Holloman Air Force Base, and affordable housing strategies. City officials say the forum is intended to ensure that District 5 residents have a voice before the commission makes its final selection.

“This event sets a new standard for openness,” organizers said, noting that previous appointments were made with limited public input. “Residents deserve the chance to hear directly from the people who want to represent them.”

The Dudley School Community Center, long considered a cornerstone gathering place for District 5, is expected to draw a strong turnout. City leaders are encouraging residents to attend in person, tune in online, and take part in what they describe as a milestone moment for civic participation in Alamogordo.

District 5 residents—and all community members—are invited to join the conversation, ask questions, and help shape the future leadership of their district.

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