Al Hernandez Appointed to Alamogordo City Commission District 5 Seat

ALAMOGORDO, NM – In a move that has stirred local discussion, the Alamogordo City Commission appointed former commissioner Al Hernandez to fill the vacant District 5 seat during their regular meeting on February 24, 2026. The appointment comes amid calls for fresh leadership, following the elevation of previous District 5 commissioner Sharon McDonald to mayor in 2025.

Hernandez, who previously served in the role but lost to McDonald in two elections—the second by a significant margin—expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return. In a statement following the decision, he said, “I am honored and humbled to have been selected to serve this beautiful community again in the capacity of city commissioner for District 5. I am excited to once again serve my community in this role.”

The District 5 vacancy prompted applications from four candidates, including Hernandez, Vesta Sherrie Edmonds, and Shelly Dowhanick-Baron.

Shelly Dowhanick-Baron was the clear community favorite and was nominated by Commissioner Warren Robinson but was rejected on a 3-3 vote. Then as expected Al Hernandez was nominated and on a 4-2 vote with Robinson and McDonald in opposition supporting the people, Hernandez was awarded the seat. Hernandez was then immediately sworn in. 

Community forums and Q&A sessions were held in the lead-up to the appointment, such as a meet-and-greet at Dudley School on February 19, 2026, allowing residents to engage with the applicants.

The Tuesday commission chamber was standing room only with local voices, including opinion pieces and social media discussions, advocated for new faces to bring innovative ideas to the commission, expressing concerns over reappointing past officials. Multiple speakers spoke in support of fresh faces. 

The full meeting, which included public comments and the appointment process, was live-streamed on the City of Alamogordo’s official YouTube channel and is available for viewing at https://www.youtube.com/live/_YxlxW0-_IU?si=YP2XsTKwwvNTFnhp. As of February 25, the video has garnered over 230 views.

Hernandez’s return to the commission signals a blend of experience and continuity, though it has sparked debate about the direction of local governance. 

Residents are encouraged to attend future commission meetings to voice their opinions and stay informed on local developments.

More News from Alamogordo

• Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Sergeant Killed in Line of Duty During I-40 Traffic Stop; Alamogordo Extends Condolences Police officer death felt around the state
• Opinion: A Mandate for Fresh Leadership: Why Alamogordo’s District 5 Appointment Must Look Forward, Not Back Tuesday is decision day for the Alamogordo City Commission a path forward or back to a time of uncertainty and lack of public trust...