Mesilla mayor will not seek reelection

Nora Lucero Barraza will not seek a fourth term as mayor of Mesilla.

Barraza, who was first elected mayor in 2010 and re-elected in 2014 and 2018, announced her decision in an Aug. 23 news release:

“At this time after much prayer and soul searching, I have decided not to run for mayor of the Town of Mesilla,” Barraza said. “It is time for me to devote time to my faith, family and health. I have truly been blessed for the opportunity to serve and represent the Town of Mesilla as Mayor since 2010. I cannot thank my family enough for their endless support and understanding during my term as mayor. Also, the residents, supporters, businesses and staff who have always believed in my values, commitment, leadership and love for our beloved town. I am so blessed and grateful for the many friendships I have developed during my tenure as a trustee and mayor. You all hold a special place in my heart. 

“Mesilla is what it is today because of us, its residents, who have lived here for multiple generations.  The people, ‘Mesilleros,’ are the reason the town is what it is today and the ‘crown jewel’ of southern New Mexico. Visitors cannot believe how we have been able to preserve our community without gentrification. We must continue to work together to preserve our town and culture. Mesilla is at a turning point, and if we don’t work together to preserve our town and culture it will be gone. Once it is gone, we cannot bring it back. Thank you, Mesilla, for allowing me to serve as your mayor.”

Barraza served eight years on the Mesilla Board of Trustees before being elected mayor.

The third of six children, Barraza was the last one born in her parents’ Mesilla home, she said.

She and her husband, Paul, have been married for 48 years and have two children and four grandchildren.