Dona Ana County Commission Chairwoman Karen G. Perez has announced her resignation to accept a job in El Paso. Perez, a licensed civil engineer, will take a job in the El Paso office of the firm of Arcadis Malcolm Pierney. She will retain residency in Dona Ana County.
Perez spoke Thursday with New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez, who will name a replacement. She said the governor was extremely gracious and understanding.
“This is one of the most difficult decisions of my life,” Perez said. “The reality is that although I am fiercely loyal to this organization and its people, as well as to my constituents and colleagues, my family has to come first, and this opportunity is too good to let slip by. I leave proud of the work that’s been done and confident in the ability of this Commission and management team to lead the organization forward.”
Commission Vice Chair Billy G. Garrett will assume the chairmanship of the board when Perez’s resignation takes effect at 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9.
Gov. Martinez has not indicated a timetable for naming a replacement to serve out the 17 months remaining in Perez’s term.