Cassie McClure announces run for city council

Cassie McClure is running for the District 1 seat on the Las Cruces City Council, she said in a news release. McClure announced her candidacy June 10 at The Bean on Mesquite.

Current District 1 Councilor Kasandra Gandara is running for mayor.

A local columnist and “active community member,” McClure said she “aims to engage the public with their city and its services, facilitating more citizen voices for city-wide decisions.

“I believe the people of Las Cruces can be an active part of the community they live in, and find positive ways to advocate for change,” McClure said. “People can have access to their elected officials and be knowledgeable about the processes in their city.”

McClure can often be heard on KRWG radio reading her column, “My So-Called Millennial Life,” which has been featured in the Las Cruces Sun-News since 2016 and nationally syndicated since 2020 through Creators Syndicate.

McClure, who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from New Mexico State University, has lived in Las Cruces since 2003. She, her husband and two children have lived in District 1 since 2014.

“I’ve watched the transformation of my district, recognizing that what gives a community life is a combination of small businesses, walkable areas and green spaces that allow us to gather as friends and family,” McClure said. “I believe in responsible growth that preserves our natural resources and enhances the quality of life for families and businesses while keeping the long view of how it will look for future generations. We can prioritize smart and sustainable development while investing in robust infrastructure that creates true community.”

Owner of the content-creation agency McClure Publications since 2013, McClure said she recognizes the vital importance of a thriving economy and sustainable job opportunities.

“As a small business owner, I understand the grind and the joy many get from having the ability to contribute to our community,” McClure said. “I want to seek opportunities for more NMSU graduates to grow businesses in Las Cruces and stay, just like I did.”

McClure has served on the city Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for six years, “enabling those who come to interact with their city employees to have programs started that they need,” she said.

“When COVID and staff changes shuttered a senior hiking program, we were able to facilitate conversations with Parks and Recreation (Department) staff so that a modified hiking program could restart,” she said. “This was a change led by citizens, and I’m committed to the idea that whether you are a long-standing resident or a newcomer to our city, your voice matters.”

For more information, visit cassiemcclure.com and Cassie McClure for Las Cruces District 1 on Facebook.

City of Las Cruces elections on Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, will include mayor (incumbent Ken Miyagishima will not run for a fifth term), city council districts 1, 2 and 4 and municipal judge. Visit www.lascruces.gov/1303/Municipal-Elections for an explanation of the city’s ranked choice voting, to determine which city council district you live in and more information about the election.