Farmington Council Swears In New Leaders, Names Public Works Director

Farmington city officials completed their end of year transitions at the December 10 council meeting, swearing in newly elected and returning councilors and formally introducing a new chief for public works. Stewart Logan was sworn in as the District 2 councilor following his November election victory, while Linda Rodgers took the oath for a third term as District 1 councilor. The council also introduced Angelique Maldonado as the citys new public works director.

Maldonado joins Farmington from the Albuquerque and Bernalillo County area and holds two master degree credentials from the University of New Mexico. Mayor Nate Duckett appointed Maldonado as Farmingtons alternate representative to the San Juan Water Commission, and the council approved that appointment unanimously. The dual responsibilities position Maldonado at the intersection of local infrastructure management and regional water governance.

Local residents can expect the leadership changes to influence a range of community services. The public works director oversees maintenance and planning for streets, water and sewer systems and public facilities, functions that directly affect daily life and long term resilience. Maldonados background in a larger metropolitan region may bring new operational perspectives and an emphasis on securing state and federal funding for infrastructure projects.

The council meeting also highlighted Councilor Logans stated interest in pursuing a local railroad project, an initiative that could reshape freight movement, stimulate economic activity and expand transportation options in San Juan County. A railroad project will require coordination across municipal, county and state agencies, and will likely compete for grant and financing opportunities against other regional priorities. Council continuity provided by Rodgers third term may help maintain momentum on ongoing initiatives while new leadership in public works addresses emerging needs.

Farmingtons decisions reflect a balance between continuity and renewal as the city enters 2026. With Maldonado in a key operational role and councilors set for the months ahead, residents should monitor progress on infrastructure maintenance, water commission representation and any railroad planning, all of which will shape the countys economic and environmental outlook.