Abeytas/Sabinal zoning district

El Defensor Chieftain sent candidate questionnaires to Socorro County candidates for the upcoming election. Responses from candidates will run over the next several newspaper editions. Candidate answers to basic info was limited to 20 words and questions were limited to 50 words. Answers past the word limit are cut off, reponses that are blank were not answered. This week features the candidates for the Abeytas/Sabinal Special Zoning District Board. Candidates that did not respond to the questionnaire: Alfred A. Black and Albert Sandoval.

Andrew E Salas

Age: 66

Current occupation (If retired, from what field): Retired Military

Highest level of education: Master of Arts International Relations

Previously held elected office: Abeytas Sabinal, special zoning district

Have you ever been arrested, charged with or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony offenses in New Mexico or any other state? If so, explain. No

1. What in your experience, education, etc., makes you qualified for this position? Born and raised in North Coral county. Strong family, and community ties to the area.

2. What are the most important challenges facing the district, and how do you propose to address them? Preserving our rural, agricultural and ranching way of life and protecting the area from unhealthy and dangerous development. Encouraging and fostering any development or cottage industry conducive with the nature of our area.

3. Describe your short-term and long-term priorities for change within the district. Generating an ordinance that provides guidance and direction for any future proposed development.

4. What qualities and actions do you believe define an effective member? Listening to and considering the desires and intentions of the area’s residents.