
Commission Chair Linda Smrkovsky said six finalists were interviewed out of 19 applicants for the county manager’s position, and Bruce Swingle of Truth or Consequences was the unanimous choice of the commissioners.
Swingle has served as the Sierra County manager for over four years, and previously worked for McKinley and Valencia counties, as well as for the New Mexico Association of Counties.
Smrkovsky said they are now in the process of negotiating a contract, which will include salary, benefits and start date.
Swingle will replace Ira Pearson, whose contract was terminated in mid-October after being on paid administrative leave since early August.
Assistant County Manager Glory Juarez has been serving as Acting County Manager. Juarez did not apply for the permanent position.