It Wasn't About The Park Above

This is a copy of the statement/comment of Councilor Scott at the Governing Body Meeting Wednesday, Feb. 27th (in regards to the motion to censure the Mayor):

"Councilors,

Tonight, a motion to censure the Mayor is before this governing body. It stems from the Mayor’s misconduct on his recent lobbying mission at our State Capitol. The motion has nothing to do with a proposed city park or the City’s animal ordinance or any other emotional cause that brings people en masse to this Chamber.

The censure has everything to do with the integrity and public trust of this governing body. The censure says that no member of this body may disregard proper procedures, the city charter, or the guidelines and regulations of the state of New Mexico and not to promote his own personal agenda before or at the expense of this governing body.

A “no” vote tonight would signal to present and future City officials that the will of the Governing Body means nothing … which is to say that the will of the people who elected the Governing Body means nothing.

So, again, this censure vote is NOT a vote on an inclusive park. It is not a vote on the popularity of the Mayor. It is a vote on due process and separation of powers, the bedrock of American government at all levels.

As City Councilors we all swore, on our first day in office, to uphold the US Constitution, NM State Constitution, and the City Charter of Rio Rancho,….. to follow the rules that govern our conduct, and to uphold the will of the governing body. A “no” vote on censure says our sworn oath means nothing.

A “no” vote tonight sends a message that any member of this body can unilaterally do whatever it takes to promote their personal agenda or project, . A “no” vote tonight says that the will of the Governing Body means nothing to you.

However, … A “yes” vote tells the citizens of Rio Rancho that you will continue to operate by US Constitution, NM State Constitution, and the City Charter of Rio Rancho and place the public interest ahead of political ambition.

Your duty is very clear. As uncomfortable as it might be. You must vote YES."