By Andrea Vasquez
Edgewood Clerk-Treasurer Michelle Jones officially announced her resignation on May 13, effective immediately, and her return to her former position as Estancia clerk.
Jones expressed confidence in the town’s current staff, stating that she is leaving Edgewood “in very good hands”—a team she helped build during her tenure.
She also took the time to thank the commission and staff for the opportunity to work in Edgewood.
In return, Jones was thanked for her work and in the clerk-treasurer role.
Before departing, Jones presented a comprehensive report on her department’s progress.
She shared a details that highlight significant progress within her department, along with positive updates on the town’s financial management.
Important updates were the third-quarter report that passed DFA analyst review and awaits final approval.
Payroll functions were also successfully moved to the finance department, and issues with PERA (Public Employees Retirement Association) and retiree health care have been resolved.
She also reported the successful submission of ARPA fund encumbrances to the U.S. Treasury and praised newly hired Grants Coordinator Emelia Mulligan for her efficiency in grant reimbursement processes.
“Today was fun because we received over $550,000 in grant reimbursements. I was so thrilled. These reimbursements are hard to do, and this one was an old one, and it just it’s just very good when you see that money hit the bank,” Jones said. “We have at least $240,000 in the pipeline, and I know we’re going to be much more proficient managing our grants now that we have a dedicated person on board.”
Regarding transparency concerns, Jones firmly states that the town is “hiding absolutely nothing.”
“All we’re doing is trying to do a good job for the town, and I just think that there are a lot of really good people here, and I know that things are going to move along great,” Jones said.
Explaining her departure, Jones said she is returning to her old job in Estancia, where they found themselves without a clerk and called her.
“It worked out well for me, and that’s why I’m going back. No, nothing fun and exciting and underhanded. I’m just going back to my old job,” she clarified.
She also expressed that the “synergy here as a group has enabled us to make great progress this year. I really thank you for the opportunity to work here.”
Following Jones’ report and departure, the Commission moved to address the vacancy.
Upon recommendation from Jones and her supervisor, Finance Director Trina Page, Victoria Archuleta was appointed as Interim Clerk/Treasurer.
Jones highly recommended Archuleta, describing her as “very smart,” detail-oriented, ethical, and someone who follows rules, knows when to ask for help and isn’t afraid to admit mistakes.
“I’m very proud to recommend that you appoint Ms. Archuleta,” Jones said.
Commissioners echoed the sentiment.
Commissioner Stephen Murillo stated, “I definitely support Miss Archuleta for the interim clerk treasurer role. She’s been very good about responding to me quickly when I have a question.”
Mayor Ken Brennan also noted Archuleta’s engagement and “intelligent questions” during clerk training.
“That’s what a person needs to do when they’re going into a new position, keeping quiet about stuff just because you don’t know about it is the worst thing anybody can ever do,” Brennan said.
Archuleta introduced herself, stating she has been with the finance department for almost a year, loves numbers and is an “open book.”
“I have nothing but respect for everyone here, and I just wish you the very best,” Jones said in closing remarks.