County Commission gets new leader

After a unanimous vote during this weeks County Commission meeting, member David Salazar took the gavel from outgoing chairman Hugh Ley.

Commissioner Albert Padilla proposed, with Kenny Medinas second, the appointment of Salazar, who was elected in 2004, as the panels chairman. Medina, who was vice chairman, then put June Garcias name forward to replace him. Garcia was also given the nod without dissent.

Both Salazar and Garcia were elected to their posts without any opposition.

County attorney Jesus Lopez said the law requires members to address the election of new officers annually.

Before Hugh Ley became chairman a year ago, LeRoy Garcia held the post for five years in a row. He left the commission in 2006.