Michael Hawkes, who was appointed Socorro County Manger in June 2019, resigned March 8.

“It was a big surprise to all of us. Mike was an amazing manager and his leadership really brought Socorro County to a great place fiscally and otherwise. Mike has been dealing with health issues since the end of last year and his resignation letter just stated that he is not recovering as he should be and he needs to focus on his health and family.” County Attorney, Adren Nance wrote in an email.

Sammie Vega-Finch will serve as interim and commissioners voted to post the job vacancy for three weeks at their March 12 meeting.

Nance said since it is an appointed at-will-position the Commission can legally just appoint someone. However, the Board is going to follow its past practice of advertising for the position locally and otherwise, it will advertise for 3 weeks, and then conduct interviews to select the most qualified applicant.

Jessica Carranza | Editor