Mayor continues to silence community with removal of public input and now with an attempt to remove New Mexico’s youngest elected official
Anthony, New Mexico – Nearly 9 months after City of Anthony Trustee, Gabriel I. Holguin filed thirteen ethics violations against Mayor Diana Murillo with several entities including the New Mexico State Ethics Commission, Office of the State Attorney General’s Office, State Auditor’s Office, and State Treasurer’s Office; Mayor Murillo has filed a civil complaint with the Third Judicial District Court to remove Trustee Holguin. The move comes three months after Mayor Murillo removed public comment input from all council meetings; not allowing constituents time to address their representatives at the council meetings.
Trustee Holguin is being represented by Las Cruces attorney, Yvonne K. Quintana.
“This is a political movement in an attempt to further silence the community. No factual basis or evidence directly ties my client to any of the false allegations presented; which is why a motion to dismiss has been filed with the court; awaiting action by the presiding judge. My client has represented the community and his residents well, and will continue to do so,” said Quintana; Holguin’s attorney.
Mayor Murillo failed to attend the initial status hearing on June 01, 2023. A pretrial conference is set for December 19th, 2023 at 8:30 AM; following a docket call on January 03, 2024 at 8:30 AM.
“I believe that the community should be informed of the attempt to remove me. I ran for office to represent my community, and my community voted me in. I will continue to serve my community the way that I have; and will continue to be their voice; especially during this time that their voice has been taken away through the removal of the public comment,” said Board Trustee Holguin.
Trustee Holguin was elected to the council in November of 2021; in a four-way race. Holguin was the highest contender, securing 32% of the vote.
Please see attachments for the above referenced at the following link: https://pdf.ac/2vns9V