Changes coming with Portales' next election

PORTALES — Changes are coming to Portales city government. Mayor Sharon King and Councilman Antonio Salguero say they won’t seek re-election in March.

And Councilwoman Dianne Parker said she is undecided on whether to run again.

Four council seats and the mayor’s position will be on the March 6 ballot.

Filing for the election is Jan. 2.

Michael Miller and Oscar Robinson said this week they will seek another four-year term.

King said Friday she won’t seek her third four-year term.

“It’s primarily because of my health,” she said. “I’m doing well today, but I’m not sure if I can say that two weeks from now.”

King in 2013 was diagnosed with multiple myeloma — a type of bone cancer.

“I’m trying to be a good mayor and balance my health at the same time,” she said. “It’s time to concentrate more on my health and less on other things.”

Salguero, from Ward A, said “nine years is enough for me,” and he won’t seek another term.

Michael Miller, from Ward C, has been on the Council 12 years and said water projects and securing the city’s gross receipts taxes are issues he wants to continue pursuing.

“I’ve served this community in different aspects all of my life, and I’m just not ready to quit,” he said.

Robinson, from Ward B, said the city’s future makes this “an exciting time to be on the council.”

Robinson is a 17-year veteran of the Portales City Council.

Parker, from Ward D, is the senior member of the council with 22 years.

She said the job has been “fulfilling,” but she hasn’t decided if she wants to continue.