🌎 Why Clean Energy and Climate Action Matter to Me — And to Santa Fe

​

As a Native Hispanic woman and 17th-generation Santa Fean, I’ve seen firsthand how our land, water, and people have been impacted by climate change, drought, and poor planning. I carry the responsibility of that legacy—and a deep commitment to protect it for the next generation.

That’s why I’m running for Mayor of Santa Fe. I believe we have a chance right now to transform how our city uses energy, manages water, and prepares for the future. But it has to be done with the people—not just for them.

 

I want to bring:

• Community-owned solar and wind projects that save residents money and give them ownership, not just another utility bill.

• Solar and battery storage in all new developments, so we’re building smarter from the ground up.

• Gray water reuse and aquifer recharge, to protect the water that gives Santa Fe life.

• A local Climate Resilience Corps, to create living-wage jobs that directly benefit working families.

This work isn’t about politics. It’s about people. It’s about building a Santa Fe that’s self-sustaining, equitable, and ready for tomorrow. I know what this land means to us. And I will fight like hell to protect it—with and for the people of Santa Fe.

​

How I Will Deliver on My Bold Climate Agenda

​

✅ 1. Launch Community-Owned Solar and Wind Energy Projects

As Mayor, I will:

• Partner with state and federal clean energy programs (like the DOE’s Community Power Accelerator) to fund cooperative and public solar/wind installations.

• Prioritize city-owned land and rooftops for solar generation, starting with municipal buildings, community centers, and schools.

• Establish a local energy co-op model that gives Santa Feans a path to buy into clean energy—not just buy from it.

• Pursue direct incentives and low-interest loans for residents and small businesses to install their own systems, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.

 

✅ 2. Mandate Solar + Battery Storage in New Developments
 

As Mayor, I will:

• Update building and zoning codes to require rooftop solar and battery-ready systems in all new residential and commercial projects.

• Work with developers early in the permitting process to integrate clean energy into project planning, not as an afterthought.

• Offer fast-track approvals and impact fee waivers for developers who meet or exceed clean energy design standards.

• Align with NM’s 2045 clean energy goals to ensure city codes are both ambitious and compliant with state standards.

 

✅ 3. Expand Gray Water Reuse, Aquifer Recharge & Sustainable Water Systems
 

As Mayor, I will:

• Launch a city-wide gray water retrofit program starting with older homes and affordable housing units, supported by state environmental grants.

• Advocate for new homes to include gray water reuse and dual plumbing at the time of construction.

• Invest in regional water capture, infiltration basins, and native wetland restoration to support aquifer recharge.

• Create a water equity task force to ensure these solutions benefit working-class neighborhoods, not just luxury developments.

 

✅ 4. Create a Climate Resilience Corps
 

As Mayor, I will:

• Use federal workforce and infrastructure funds (like AmeriCorps and EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grants) to create green jobs for Santa Feans.

• Train and employ locals to plant trees, build green roofs, maintain solar systems, install gray water systems, and restore natural landscapes.

• Partner with local unions, tribal governments, and high schools to make this a pipeline to long-term employment, especially for youth and veterans.

• Ensure the program is community-led and inclusive, with hiring focused on equity and climate justice.