Graduated W/Civil and Environmental Engineering Degree 1972. Served in Peace Corps in Fiji Islands as a community works advisor 1973-1975. Hired on as construction manager and designer w/ National Park Service from 1976-1985. Park Engineer at Glen Canyon NRA 1985-1989. Park Chief or Maintenance & Professional Services at Mount Rainier NP 1990-1992. Reassigned at Rainier as Park Planner working on the Park’s General Management Plan 1992-1999. Following completion of the GMP, reassigned as Park Project Manager to oversee projects identified in the GMP 1999-2013. Important to note that Rainier NP is the 5th oldest Park in the Service and consequently has 7 nationally recognized historic districts, miles of roads & trails recognized as cultural landscapes. After retiring from NPS in 2013 my wife Catharine and I purchase a depressed property in Mesilla’s HR zone consisting of 4 structures built in 1930s and have restored 3 of the 4 to date. I am honored to serve as a PZHAC Commissioner to continue to help preserve the historical significance of Mesilla.He received his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Public Administration degrees from New Mexico State University. He has held varied positions in the public sector. He served as Assistant Area Director with the NM Department of Labor (now Workforce Solutions), EEO and Training Officer with the City of Las Cruces and Executive Director with the NMSU Office of Institutional Equity. His family roots run deep in Mesilla. During his tenure as Trustee, he would like to focus on preservation (both structural and cultural), community wellbeing/quality of life issues, responsiveness and transparency.
Kristina Alba, born and raised in Mesilla NM. She serves as vice chair on the committee as she has a genuine interest in the future growth and sustainability of our beautiful community. Her background in real estate has given her insight into how thoughtful planning and zoning decisions can positively impact both businesses and residents. Kristina has a deep appreciation for balancing the needs of economic growth with environmental sustainability and preserving the character of our neighborhoods here in Mesilla.
I was introduced to Mesilla when my late husband took a sabbatical year, and we came to Las Cruces from Wisconsin in 1991-1992. We moved to Las Cruces for good in 2002. While looking at houses, a friend encouraged us to look at the Renolds, Chavez, Fountain house in Mesilla. We were charmed and the rest is history. In the process of the restoration of this significant historic home, I became familiar with many of the processes and requirements of the Town. Having been raised in a small town, I felt at home in Mesilla right away. I belong to two other volunteer organizations in Mesilla. I’m a Program Volunteer supporting the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site and also a member of Querencia Mi Mesilla, an organization working to preserve Mesilla’s historic adobe structures and culture. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Later I enrolled and graduated with an Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering. I began my career working for a Mechanical Engineering firm providing HVAC, electrical and plumbing services in the building industry. Next, I was recruited by an Architectural firm and found myself laying out floor plans, building sections and details. Finally, I was hired by an Electrical design company, where I stayed until we moved back to New Mexico. Finally, once back in New Mexico I worked for Bohanan Huston, a civil engineering company here in Las Cruces for 14 years. With this company I worked on everything from the lift station on University Ave to the development of The Railyard in Santa Fe. In short, I love history and architecture and have a professional record that supports my position as commissioner. I enjoy giving back to the town of Mesilla.
Commissioner Eric Gallegos is a 6th generation Mesillero. He is a retired manager, having worked at State of New Mexico’s Children, Youth & Families Department for over 28 years. He maintains his Licensed Masters degree in Social Work and volunteers with both the Basilica de San Albino and Knights of Columbus. He serves on the commission to ensure the protection of Mesilla’s historical culture and vibrant integrity for future generations.
Commissioner Mulvihill bio to be added at a later date.
Rosemary Alvillar born and raised in Mesilla serves as an Alternate Commissioner for the Planning and Zoning Commission. Rosemary holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Education and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from NMSU and is currently employed by Las Cruces Public Schools. Rosemary currently lives in “El Rancho de los Estradas” established in the late 1800’s. Knowing that her family was part of the rich history of Mesilla, she is dedicated to serving the public and committed to protecting the rich culture of Mesilla for future generations.
I am a community-oriented individual with a strong commitment to supporting the sustainable and thoughtful development of Mesilla. I also grew up in Mesilla and Tortugas for most of my life. My grandparents were immigrants from Mexico, lived in Stahman’s, until they decided to make Mesilla their permanent home, where I currently now live. I attended New Mexico State University and graduated with a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice. I am currently the Director of Communications at a local non-profit in town where I have been for the last 8 years. Over the last 8 years, I have learned how important it is to learn about local government and involving community input to help shape the decisions that are made for the benefit not just for a city, but for the community. I am passionate about helping shape the future of Mesilla by supporting informed and inclusive decision-making that benefits all members of the community. In my free time, I enjoy going for walks, -- mostly on the ditch banks of Mesilla, -- or on the new walking path next to the Rio Grande off Calle de Norte. I enjoy supporting and visiting our local businesses like The Bean, grabbing a bite to eat at Hacienda de Mesilla, or buying local produce and products from Farmesilla. I am excited about the potential opportunity to contribute my skills, knowledge, and dedication to the Planning and Zoning Committee to ensure Mesilla’s growth is both balanced and respectful of its historic roots.
2231 Avenida de Mesilla, Mesilla, NM 88046
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
(575) 524-3262