Activist to run for District 6 council seat

Sharon Thomas, former head of the Quality Growth Alliance, has announced her candidacy for the open District 6 seat on the Las Cruces City Council.

One of her main goals is to “fully involve the city and its citizens in planning our future,” according to a news release from her campaign.

“Las Cruces is rapidly transforming itself from a big town to a city,” Thomas said. “We can continue to be reactive, waiting until subdivisions appear and then trying to find a way to cobble them together to make a city, or we can work together to study growth patterns, predict future land use and become good stewards of a vibrant and successful city.”

Thomas joins former Doña Ana County Magistrate Judge Patrick J. Curran; Lawrence Joy, the owner of a direct mail advertising firm and the voice of NMSU’s marching band; and Karen Trujillo, a real-estate broker and president of the Hispano Chamber of Commerce de Las Cruces, in the race. The special election is being held Jan. 15 to replace Ken Miyagishima, who was elected mayor earlier this month.

Candidates will file to run on Tuesday.

Thomas said she is interested in “planning for prosperity,” saying a good quality of life brings economic dividends.

“A well-planned community attracts companies that offer well-paying jobs, and well-paying jobs are the basis for a strong economy,” she said. “Thoughtful planning can also help reduce traffic congestion, prevent crime and address the need for neighborhood parks and affordable housing.”

Thomas is a retired educator. She was one of the original owners of the Red Mountain Café when it opened in 1998. She helped found the Quality Growth Alliance earlier this year, but has resigned from her position as president of its board. She has also been involved in other community groups and boards.

She is married to Dick Thomas, also a retired educator. Their son Severn received a master’s degree in anthropology from New Mexico State University, and their daughter Caerllion is completing work on her master’s degree in geography at NMSU.