Stockwell to Hit the Ground Running as Alamogordo’s New City Manager

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Alamogordo, NM – Following a contentious Tuesday night City Commission meeting, newly appointed City Manager Robert Stockwell began preparing for his official start on July 1, 2026, by spending Wednesday at City Hall.

Stockwell used the day to observe operations, meet with various department staff members, and sit down with outgoing Acting City Manager Dr. Stephenie Hernandez. According to Hernandez’s office, the meetings were described as professional, non-political, and respectful, with positive dialogue throughout. Staff characterized the sessions as primarily fact-finding and observational in nature as Stockwell familiarizes himself with city operations ahead of his first day.

“Dr. Hernandez’s office reported the meetings to be professional, non-political and respectful showing a professional demeanor to ensure a smooth transition,” sources indicated.

Stockwell is expected to hold one-on-one meetings with Mayor and other community leaders, as well as members of the press, in the coming days and weeks.

The appointment comes amid ongoing legal scrutiny of the selection process. Alamogordo Town News journalist Chris Edwards’ lawsuit against the City Commission continues, with motions from both parties and potential depositions scheduled in the weeks ahead. Edwards has stated he has “no issue with Stockwell personally or with his leadership credentials, but rather with the process by which the selection was conducted.” Stockwell himself has no ties to the litigation surrounding potential Open Meetings Act violations by the commission.

Separately, rumors of recall efforts targeting some city commissioners have been confirmed by multiple community organizations. Formal statements from those involved are expected in the coming weeks.

More details on the transition, the lawsuit, and community responses will be reported as they develop. Stay tuned to KALHRadio.org and AlamogordoTownNews.org for the latest community reports.

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