Rivera Named New Mexico Clerk of the Year

Christine Rivera, Las Cruces City Clerk since 2019, was named the state’s Clerk of the Year during the New Mexico Municipal League’s annual conference held April 9-11 in Taos.

The award, presented each year since 1991, recognizes a city, town or village clerk in New Mexico who exhibits excellence in their interactions with their governing body and the public. Members of City Council, the governing body for the City of Las Cruces, nominated Rivera and listed her goals of transparency and responsiveness as highlights in the application process.

“I’m extremely honored and humbled to be nominated by the governing body for this prestigious award,” Rivera said. “I work hard to be a team member that everyone can rely on.”

As Las Cruces City Clerk, Rivera has implemented automated agenda software and IPRA management software that helps streamline the functionality of the office and its ability to respond to requests for public records. She has also advocated in Santa Fe for legislative issues that would standardize how city clerks account for the increasing number of public records requests.

Rivera also helped create a Standard Rules and Procedures booklet and provides one-on-one support to campaign staff and volunteers during municipal elections.

“She provides guidance on Robert’s Rules, Open Meetings Act and other critical processes for committee leaders, while also ensuring that public input is not only present but represented and championed in City conversations and decisions,” wrote City Councilor Becky Corran in nominating Rivera. “Her presence and support in these venues has changed how we think about communication, intra- and extramurally in ways that enhance resident access and builds trust.”

The City Clerk’s office maintains and protects all official municipal records and provides public access to records. Rivera’s office also processes public records requests and applications to serve on boards, committees and commissions.

Rivera is one of approximately 150 municipal clerks in New Mexico.

The New Mexico Municipal League protects and promotes municipal interests with a unified voice through advocacy, education and comprehensive risk management. The Municipal League is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association that represents and serves cities, towns and villages in New Mexico.