A City in Crisis: Corruption Allegations, Leadership Exodus & A Divided Commission

The Vote: 4–3 In what is being described as the most significant display of corruption in Alamogordo's history, the city commission passed a controversial measure in a 4–3 vote to force out Dr. Stephanie Hernandez, who had served as Acting City Manager for 28 consecutive months — all without a formal public appointment process, public debate, or community input.

The four commissioners who voted in favor of the settlement and her removal were:

• Josh Rardin
• Stephen Burnett
• Al Hernandez
• Baxter Pottillo

Voting in opposition were:

• Mayor Sharon McDonald
• Commissioner Mark Tapley
• Commissioner Warren Robinson

The Settlement The commission voted to accept a financial settlement — widely characterized as a payoff — tied to an EEOC complaint filed by Dr. Hernandez. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed publicly during the meeting, and the commission refused to allow any public comment or open debate on the matter. Full details are expected to be released through IPRA (Inspection of Public Records Act) requests that have already been filed.

The Walkout In a dramatic moment, Commissioner Warren Robinson walked out of the closed-door executive session, refusing to participate in what he characterized as an unethical discussion. When the commission reconvened in open session, the bloc of four male commissioners on the right side of the dais moved forward with the vote to approve the settlement.

Double Leadership Vacuum The timing is particularly alarming for Alamogordo because the city is simultaneously losing both of its top leadership positions:

• City Manager — Dr. Hernandez's departure leaves the role vacant after 28 months of her serving in an acting capacity with no permanent appointment
• City Attorney — Has formally submitted his resignation to pursue other interests, further compounding the leadership crisis

The city now enters an uncertain period with no experienced leadership in either of the two most critical administrative roles.

What's Next

• IPRA requests have been filed and will compel public disclosure of the settlement details and related communications
• A legal probe into the actions of Rardin, Burnett, Al Hernandez, and Pottillo is expected to follow
• The city faces an urgent need to fill both the City Manager and City Attorney positions amid controversy and institutional instability
• More details are forthcoming as the investigation develops

This recap is based on reported information. The full picture will become clearer as IPRA responses are received and any legal proceedings develop.

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