GRANTS, N.M. – As Heather Porter, President of the Grants-Cibola County Chamber of Commerce, reaches the halfway mark of her term, the Chamber faces a period of transition and opportunity. With Executive Director Les Gaines preparing to step down from his temporary role, Porter and the chamber’s board of directors are focused on maintaining momentum while navigating the challenges of finding a new leader.
Porter emphasized the Chamber’s commitment to its core mission: supporting local businesses and fostering economic development. “We’re still full speed ahead with our goals,” she said. “Consistency with our mission and vision is key as we move forward.”
Searching for a New Executive Director
The search for a new executive director is underway, with the Chamber seeking a self-driven individual who understands nonprofit organizations, public funding, and the nuances of working with public entities.
“We’re looking for someone with a positive and forward-thinking attitude,” Porter explained. “This person needs to be not only a steward for local businesses but also for the surrounding community, with a broad perspective that spans county, state, and federal levels.”
The Chamber is also prioritizing candidates who value the area’s cultural and historical heritage, particularly given the Chamber’s dual role in housing the New Mexico Mining Museum. “Preserving the history of our community, including its mining history, is a critical part of what we do,” Porter said.
Although Gaines’ departure date has not been finalized, the Chamber is actively fielding applications and will keep the position open until a qualified candidate is found. “We’re confident that the right person is out there,” Porter added.
Upcoming Gala and Legislative Priorities
The Chamber’s annual Gala and meeting, a signature event for the organization, remains on the agenda despite the leadership transition. Details about the event will be finalized during the board’s upcoming meeting, but Porter expressed the Chamber’s determination to continue planning for the beloved community gathering.
As the New Mexico legislative session approaches, the Chamber’s presence and priorities are still taking shape. Porter noted that many decisions to advance the chamber’s mission will take place soon, after they are able to finalize plans in their January board meeting.
Beyond its business advocacy work, the Chamber serves as a key visitor center for Cibola County. According to Porter, the number of visitors who come through the center is “astounding,” with staff playing an important role in welcoming and assisting travelers. “They’re the community’s greeters, educating visitors about where to eat, stay, or get their car fixed,” she said. “It’s a role we take great pride in, even if we don’t always give ourselves enough credit for it.”
Despite the uncertainties of transition, the Grants-Cibola County Chamber of Commerce remains dedicated to its mission and to the community it serves.
Porter credited Gaines for fostering strong communication within the board, ensuring continuity and collaboration. “Les [Gaines] has been incredible,” she said. “We’re going to miss him, but we’re grateful for everything he’s done.”
For now, the Chamber’s focus is on the future: finding a capable new leader, continuing to support local businesses, and maintaining the important roles of both the Chamber and the Mining Museum. As Porter put it, “We’re here to support the community, and that won’t change.”