Stephen Lopez named interim Doña Ana County manager

The Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners announced Stephen Lopez will serve as the interim county manager while the County gears up its search to replace Fernando Macias.

Lopez will take the position on May 1 as Macias steps aside on April 30 after the Board voted in December 2023 to end his contract.

"I am looking forward to working with elected and administrative leaders throughout the County to make sure we are ready to welcome a new permanent County Manager in a few months," Lopez said in a release announcing his appointment. "His experience, dedication, and collaborative spirit make him well-suited to guide the County during this transitional period."

Lopez brings over three decades of extensive experience in law enforcement, emergency management and academia.

Lopez joined the County in 2021 as emergency manager, where he coordinated emergency response efforts both both the City of Las Cruces and the County.

Lopez began his career in law enforcement at New Mexico State University in 1987. He worked there for 33 years, with the last eight years as Chief of Police. Lopez also served as adjunct faculty for 14 years, teaching courses in public health and criminal justice, demonstrating his commitment to both community safety and education.

Lopez holds bachelor's degrees from NMSU in criminal justice and psychology. He has a master's degree from the University of Washington in strategic planning for critical infrastructures.

"We thank Stephen Lopez for being willing to serve in the role of interim County Manager to help lead us through this period of transition," Commission Chair Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez said in a release. "While we look for a new County Manager, we will continue our mission of serving our community with integrity, transparency, and excellence. We are confident that Stephen will provide that."

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Doña Ana County names Stephen Lopez interim county manager