Aztec city commissioners paused a special meeting this week to honor former Mayor Mike Padilla, recognizing his six terms in office and decades of public service before convening a closed session on undisclosed matters.
Padilla, a Vietnam War Marine veteran who stepped down in June citing health concerns and a desire to let “new blood” lead, received a certificate of appreciation and a custom metal sculpture during the tribute.
Commissioner Brett Lanier praised Padilla’s character, mentorship and commitment to the community, saying his example inspired others to serve. After the presentation, commissioners moved into a closed meeting that officials said did not address filling Padilla’s vacant seat, though Lanier noted separately that a potential successor may decide soon whether to pursue the role.
“There are moments in public life when we should simply pause and say thank you and show respect. Today is one of those moments I would like to express my sincere appreciation for your years of service to the city of Aztec, to the people who call you mayor and to our nation,” Commissioner Brett Lanier said.
After six terms and a lifetime of public service, Padilla announced June on it was time to step down and let some younger leaders take over.
“Now’s the time, you know, let the new blood come in. I’ve done everything that I felt comfortable in doing,” Padilla told the Tri-City Record in a phone conversation on June 25
. “I mean, it’s no one reason … just been in my mind.”
Padilla also cited his doctors’ advice to keep his stress down as he continues recovering from a major cancer surgery.
As a U.S. Marine, he served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War.
“As a veteran and dedicated public servant, your life has reflected simple but powerful principles: leadership is service, and that commitment deserves not only our gratitude but also our respect,” Lanier said, adding that he reached out to Padilla for advice about how to best prepare to serve as commissioner.
Lanier said Padilla welcomed his questions, sharing his experience and “encouraged me to prepare for the responsibilities that come with public office.”
“I’ve never forgotten that conversation, and I remain grateful that he took the time to invest in some of this beginning his journey,” Lanier said, noting that he’s gained a “much deeper appreciation” to public service during the last six months.
“It carries the weight of being entrusted with taxpayer dollars and making choices that affect an entire community,” Lanier said. “It asks for evenings, weekends and time away from the family. It also requires a willingness to stand up in some public scrutiny, knowing that every decision will be examined and questioned.”
Lanier said Padilla’s military service reminds us that freedom is never something to be taken for granted.
“Leadership is not measured by the titles of recognition. You, Mr. Padilla, have shown it is measured by character, sacrifice, and by the willingness to place the needs of others before your own,” Lanier said.
“It has been said that the true measure of a leader is not how long they serve, but whether others are inspired to serve because of them. And your example has done exactly that,” he said.
Lanier then told Padilla they had something for him along with a certificate of appreciation signed by the commissioners.
“Holy mackerel,” Padilla said. “That is probably one of my most prized things I’ve ever gotten. I appreciate you guys.”
“I’m so proud of this, you don’t even know,” Padilla said.
The special meeting was followed by a closed meeting held by the commissioners, with Mayor Pro tem Jason Cortez attending remotely.
Commissioner Lanier stated in a text that filling the seat vacated by Padilla was not discussed.
However, earlier he also said on Friday, “there is one more than worthy of the position and is highly respected by the public. His decision though will be decided by end of the day if he wants to do it.”