Op-ed: A Letter to the Editor and Citizens of Grants from Donald Jaramillo

Much has been said in regard to my termination as manager of the City of Grants. When I accepted the position, I was aware it could end at any moment due to the political tie - five elected officials, majority of three wins. My hope was to be manager for at least four years in order to make some significant progress. Well, we all know that didn't happen. Nonetheless, I was honored and thankful to serve as manager for 18 months.

What Happened?

Truth is the State would not reimburse nearly $750,000 of the $1.5M Pantry property purchase. Ask any top staff member and not the elected officials as they have political agendas, the final paperwork went through multiple hands including the council. Reality is the council did not notice the tax lien and I did not make them aware because I did not think it would ultimately not qualify to be reimbursed.

A majority of the council wanted someone to pay for the error even though they were part of it by not noticing it on the Final Settlement when they 'unanimously' approved it. Despite the fact the council should not get involved in operations, One of the three who voted me out wanted to terminate a staff member and I told them no, and that if anyone should pay for the error it should be me as the buck stops at the manager’s desk. Therefore, that council member told me to my face he would then support suspension on me, not termination. Apparently, he changed his mind.

In addition to the Pantry error, it's been obvious that one council member has wanted me out of City Hall since they were elected due to my good relations with past and present mayors. That's just too bad because I've always been about good relations despite a someone being another party, color, beliefs, etc. It just showed how hateful this council member is. Sad but true.

Moving Forward

I appreciate the mayor's efforts in trying to get me back in. However, I don't want back in because I don't operate looking over my shoulder constantly. Due to the good 'Admin Team' there today, City Hall would be fine if elected officials let the staff operate the city and they worry about policy and procedure. I'm hopeful they will find a good replacement.

I do wish the city well - continue to focus on:

• Cleanliness of the town because the first impression is always the lasting impression.

• Persistent with Outdoor Recreation, great opportunity for economic growth.

• Community Events, concerts, festivals, etc. Our downtown is perfect for events.

• Infrastructure challenges are great. Continue, be persistent in repairing old infrastructure, water and wastewater. Won't happen overnight, one section at a time. Currently there is $2.2M in GO Bond Funding, a $6M USDA water and wastewater system improvement project will start in the next month or two, and $5.2M Capital Outlay is expected soon for water system improvements specifically. There is Funding out there.

• Treating the employees well - employees are the greatest asset. Elected officials make decisions and go home to dinner. City Hall staff has to live with those decisions. The city pays decent and has great benefits. That's all fine and dandy, but at the end of the day they also want confidence in job security. Unfortunately, because of recent terminations 'without cause', it makes for an uneasy workplace. City employees deserve better.

Lastly, I'd like to thank the Admin Team Victor, Michelle, Fran, and Jorge love you guys. Also, would like to thank former mayor Modey Hicks for first giving me the opportunity, and special thanks to Mayor Erik Garcia for his continued support.

I've gained some good friends and am thankful.

No regrets, it was fun while it lasted and life goes on.

I love 'My' town, Viva Cibola.

Thank you, Donald Jaramillo