Rio Ranchoan announces candidacy for county commission

RIO RANCHO — A Rio Rancho man announced Jan. 10 he would run for the District 3 Sandoval County Commission seat.

Frank Smith stated in a release that following a career of advocacy for New Mexico's veterans and military families, he started his campaign for the November election this year. According to a release, Smith stated his three pillars are safety, saving and service, which were covered in a recent town hall Smith held.

"I welcome the jobs, and I support the national security mission," Smith told the crowd. "But I know first-hand what happens when national security is prioritized over public safety."

Smith, who serves as chair of the New Mexico Veterans and Military Families Caucus and has experience in the Marine Corps.,  shared a priority for addressing concerns about Project Ranger, the hypersonic missile facility to be constructed three miles west of Northern Meadows. Smith also prioritized an "early warning system" that monitors air, water and soil around the facility.

To show his "track record of delivering tangible results for New Mexicans," the release adds, Smith referenced his role in helping pass the largest property tax reduction in state history, noting that "tens of thousands of veterans across the state are paying less in property taxes today than they were just last year."

Smith also advocated for voting rights that empower independent/decline-to-state voters, it states.

"Service isn't about partisanship; it's about ensuring every voice in our county is heard," Smith said. "I am running to protect our families, our water, and our property values."

District 3 is currently held by Mike Meek, who is running for mayor of Rio Rancho following two consecutive four-year terms on commission.