Tim Dodge takes oath as new Ruidoso village manager

Tim Dodge, who headed Ruidoso's Community Development Department for about a year, was sworn in Tuesday as the new village manager.

Dodge replaced former manager Debi Lee, who announced her intention to retire last year but was awarded a one-year contract to manage transition. Lee was later placed on administrative leave, the reasons for which were unclear.

Mayor Lynn Crawford did not offer information about the circumstances surrounding the change in leadership.

"I know there has been a lot of discussion over this," Crawford said of criticism earlier in the meeting under the public forum when three residents complained about lack of an open search for Lee's replacement.

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"We have interviewed several people over the last two years since before I was mayor and after," Crawford said. "We have made more than just cursory checks. We have gone into communities and spoke to (people) about the kind of work Mr. Dodge has done for them."

During his year with the village, "he's done a wonderful job," Crawford said.

MORE:Tim Dodge takes over Ruidoso community development with a passion

"I think the department he's been with is one we are really proud of," the mayor said. "It used to be different and (staff) weren't communicating with our builders and the public."

The management of short-term rentals, a contentious issue locally, has come a long way, Crawford said, crediting approaches implemented by Dodge as a major reason and mentioning that Dodge also was a driving force behind the successful water park at Grindstone Reservoir.

He said he was appreciative that councilors paid attention to the work Dodge accomplished. He introduced Dodge's wife Marilyn, who he said has integrated into the community well.

However, the motion by Councilor Gary Jackson to approve Dodge's appointment drew one nay.

Councilor Tim Coughlin said he could not approve the appointment because of the process.

"You've done great work on short-term rentals," Coughlin told Dodge. "It was contentious and difficult, but what we needed. Everything you've done in that department was great.

"Please do not think (my vote) has anything to do with you. I have always thought we need to go out to see what else is there. As a process, I think we should have done as we did for all other high level department positions. I respect you, look forward to continue working with you, but I will vote no just because of procedure."

Dodge will be paid $125,000 annually, an increase from his salary as community development director, but about $10,000 less than Lee's salary.

'Thanks to Debi'

Under councilor remarks earlier in the meeting, Councilor Susan Lutterman thanked Lee, who is on administrative leave for undisclosed reasons.

MORE:Village manager placed on administrative leave

"She's not here, but she gave us 10 years," Lutterman said. "What I want to say is thank you to Debi Lee for her 10 years of dedication and energy and always having the village of Ruidoso in her mind and the employees."

Lutterman said she met Lee 10 years ago at a leadership conference.

"She always had the same way," energetic and enthusiastic, Lutterman said. "Everybody knew her in the state of New Mexico. What I wish for her is a wonderful retirement and happy times with her family, and I thank her for everything she has done for the village of Ruidoso."

MORE:Ruidoso Village manager awarded one-year contract

Lee faced several controversial situations while leading the village, but she is credited with pulling it out of a dire financial situation, restoring its credit rating and with Finance Director Judy Starkovich, bringing audits current and without findings. She initiated quarterly employee recognition and worked with a financial adviser to reduce the village's debt.

Reporter Dianne Stallings can be contacted at dstallings@ruidosonews.com.