Former Village of Cloudcroft Mayor - Craig Turner

11/17/2025

In case you read the Cloudcroft Reader’s article today but didn’t go allll the way to the bottom “footnote” section to read what I said in it’s entirety, HERE is my full response:

full text of Turner’s 11/16/25 response:

“Well, I respectfully don’t consider stepping down to force action after trustees denied my repeated requests to authorize hiring a financial clerk to address the serious financial issues uncovered last year as “quitting on the Village”.

As you know, within days of my resignation the Village brought in outside professionals to address those problems. My decision was based solely on what was necessary to safeguard the Village’s finances. Anyone familiar with the financial situation at the time already knows why those actions became necessary. Leadership sometimes requires decisions that aren’t politically convenient but are essential for the long-term health of the community.

I understand that the “quit on the Village” line is intended to be insulting and critical toward me, but I also know that stepping down to force necessary financial action was the RIGHT decision for the good of the Village. So to those who say I wouldn’t deserve a trustee seat, for the unnamed “sources” who say I would not deserve to come back because I “quit on the Village”, I’m presuming those comments are coming from individuals aligned with Timothy King, as that narrative has been repeated by him and now his supporters since the day I stepped down. Using that talking point didn’t resonate with the community when trustee King first used it last December, and it doesn’t seem to carry much credibility now either based on my support for Dusty and his landslide victory.

More importantly, I didn’t run for trustee, and I haven’t applied to be considered for appointment. So the idea that I “don’t deserve to come back” simply doesn’t apply. If at some point in the future I choose to run, the community would have the opportunity to answer that question themselves.

**Again, Hannah, I’m only consenting for you to quote me if you print the entirety of my answer, precisely word-for-word as written.”

11/11/2025

11/11/2025

Hello, Cloudcroft neighbors!

As we move through this transition period in our Village government, I want to share a few thoughts about ethics, leadership, and what responsible governance should look like.

Last week the morning after the election, Mayor Timothy King called to congratulate me and committed to “making this transition as smooth as it can be”. I respect and appreciate that!

He also shared a post on Facebook last week stating. “I take ethics seriously under NMSA §10-16-3 and am reviewing with counsel to ensure best practices.”

For reference, NMSA §10-16-3, part of New Mexico’s Governmental Conduct Act, defines that duty clearly: “A public officer or employee shall treat the officer’s or employee’s government position as a public trust. The officer or employee shall use the powers and resources of public office only to advance the public interest and not to obtain personal benefits or pursue private interests.”

I appreciate that Mayor King is taking steps to uphold that standard. Ethical leadership means keeping faith with the public trust, especially during a time of transition.

The ICMA - International City/County Management Association Code of Ethics — recognized as the gold standard for municipal conduct — encourages local officials to avoid even the appearance of political motivation. It specifically advises that outgoing or “lame-duck” leaders should refrain from making major decisions, signing contracts, or making appointments outside of a true emergency. If those actions can wait, they should wait — particularly when a new administration is about to take office.

In September, the New Mexico Municipal League (NMML) hosted an ethics training led by Sandra Cowles, ICMA’s Ethics Director from Washington, D.C. I’d like to share that I have reached out to Ms. Cowles to request the slides from that session so our entire council can understand and apply the same best practices and ethical standards encouraged by NMML and ICMA.

Regarding the Open Trustee Seat—
Since the trustee seat has remained open for months now with no issues, emergencies, interruptions, or impact on Village business, there’s no urgency to fill it immediately. The position will be filled in January, following a transparent and fair process under your new administration.

Starting 1/2/2026, I’ll accept applications from interested community members, review them, and hold interviews before making an appointment at the January 2026 organizational meeting.

This approach ensures stability, continuity, and respect for proper procedure in the Village of Cloudcroft.

I also want to reaffirm what was said publicly at the 10/14/25 Candidate Debate: Trustee Keith Hamilton, Trustee-Elect Danny Hardwick and Trustee Gail McCoy all agreed that any appointment of a new trustee should wait until January, when the new administration is seated.

You have my commitment that I will continue to follow these ethical standards in serving as Mayor for the Village of Cloudcroft — always guided by transparency, public service, and what is truly best for our community.

Thank you for your continued trust and for believing in Cloudcroft’s future!

-Dusty Wiley,
Mayor-Elect, Village of Cloudcroft

11/05/2025

I want to again congratulate Dusty Wiley on his win for Mayor of Cloudcroft last night! From the beginning of his campaign, I have fully supported Dusty. He has proven himself to be a man of integrity, steady judgment, and genuine commitment to Cloudcroft’s future. His experience in both business and public service has prepared him to bring stability, accountability, and clear communication back to Village Hall.

I also want to congratulate Trustees Danny Hardwick and Keith Hamilton on their election victories to serve four-year terms, and Gail McCoy who will serve a two-year term. I truly believe they will all work together with Mayor Wiley to address the challenges and opportunities that face our mountain community. Cloudcroft’s success depends on collaboration and unity, and I am confident this new leadership team will serve the people with honesty and purpose.

Cloudcroft is a remarkable place — built on hard work, heart, and hometown pride. I remain deeply invested in its success and look forward to seeing this new administration move our Village forward.

Craig Turner
Former Mayor, Village of Cloudcroft

11/05/2025

God bless you Village of Cloudcroft Mayor Elect - Dusty Wiley!!!

11/05/2025

Congratulations, Mayor-Elect Dusty Wiley!

Phyllis and I couldn’t be prouder of you and your heart for Cloudcroft. You’ve run a campaign rooted in integrity, transparency, and love for this community — and tonight, the people’s voice was heard loud and clear. We’re truly excited to see you lead Cloudcroft forward with that same steady, common-sense approach and genuine care for our mountain village. The future looks bright under your leadership!” 🇺🇸

11/05/2025

Please VOTE if you haven’t already had a chance to do so!! You’ve got until 7 o’clock tonight to vote at Cloudcroft high school.

We’ll be having an election night watch party at Dusty boots Café starting at 6pm! If you’re in the village, please come by and let’s celebrate Cloudcroft as the election results come in, but if you’re not in Cloudcroft, but if you’re not hearing Cloudcroft right now, please join us online right here on my page LIVE starting at 6 PM. If you click on the event that you’re interested or going, you will get a reminder.

11/04/2025

Have you voted yet? This election is CRITICAL — more so than any election in the history of Cloudcroft!

Please take this opportunity today to make your voice be heard for the future of the Village of Cloudcroft!!

If you are having trouble getting to the high school to vote, please comment below if you need a ride or call Dusty Wiley at 575–800–4538 and we will make sure to help you get to the high school to exercise your freedom to vote!

And then please join us tonight at Dusty boots Café for an election return party beginning at 6 PM!!

11/04/2025

Looks like even the locals in the forest are casting their vote early! 🦌❤️
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