Alpine’s Ward 3 representation vacant again

By MARK GLOVER

ALPINE – The Ward 3 chair on the Alpine City Council is vacant again. Hugh Johnson resigned after last week’s city council meeting. Johnson won last year’s election in a three-man race, beating Carlos Lujan and incumbent Jim “Fitz” Fitzpatrick who had been appointed by the city council in 2009 to replace the late Gerald Raun.

“The city council can appoint a representative for Ward 3 at next month’s meeting (Feb 14^th) or call a special election and put it on the ballot for the May (12^th) election,” said Alpine city Secretary Molly Taylor. “It’s in the city charter.”

Johnson who resigned for “personal reasons” was not available to comment at press time.

Lujan, who came in second in last year’s election, is “considering” the possibility to represent Ward 3.

“I do consider myself qualified for the job,” Lujan said. “I’m not criticizing anybody but I feel the city is lacking leadership. I feel like I can bring that and common ground.”

Fitzpatrick will be seeking the position.

“Absolutely. I don’t like what’s been happening the last nine months,” said Fitzpatrick.  “I hope to bring order and cooperation back to the council.”

More than 200 votes were cast in Ward 3 at last year’s election, a record turn-out.