Robert Garza
The Las Cruces City Council made Robert Garza the new city manager today with a unanimous vote.
Garza will take over as the city’s chief executive on Jan. 1. He replaces Terrence Moore, who is leaving to take a job in West Virginia following a rough year in Las Cruces.
Garcia is currently the city’s assistant city manager.
“I wish to thank the mayor and city council for their confidence in me,” Garza said in a news release. “Unlike many communities throughout the United States, Las Cruces is doing well in these tough economic times. And we at the City of Las Cruces will continue to work hard to provide the best services possible to residents with available and even dwindling resources.”
At the forefront, Garza said, is “working with our federal and state legislative delegations to obtain as much assistance possible.”
The council voted to give Garza a three-year contract that will run through Dec. 31, 2013. He will be paid $149,500 annually, plus receive a $6,000 annual vehicle allowance.
Garza, who has served as assistant city manager since March 2006, is a 25-year veteran of city government. The release states that he has “extensive background and experience in nearly every aspect of city operations and policy making.” He has headed the public works department, been the city’s chief engineer, and been acting director of the Developmental Services Division and City Street Department.
“Robert is absolutely the best choice to serve in this very challenging and demanding position,” Mayor Ken Miyagishima said. “He has earned, through years of devoted service to Las Cruces, the respect and admiration of the city council, department directors, city staff and the community. He’s smart, personable, diplomatic, and takes a hands-on approach without micromanaging. He’s a perfect fit.”