SAN LUIS — Noting that the chosen candidate will change the landscape of Costilla County for generations, Augustine “Roy” Esquibel has thrown his hat into the ring as District 3 County Commissioner.

The Democrat Central Committee appointed Esquibel to fill the term of Costilla County Commissioner Joe C. Gallegos after his untimely passing early a year and a half ago.

He said, “Upon appointment, I hit the ground running with this scripture in mind: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”  -Proverbs 31:8-9.

One of the most important projects he has been working on, he explained, is infrastructure. “I have been working diligently to update our antiquated water system. This system is more than 40 years old and we need to be able to have safe and clean drinking water for our people.”

Esquibel has also worked on implementing policy against direct family nepotism “and to increase the accountability of our spending decisions to the taxpayer, so that our decisions are completely and totally transparent.”

Another notable project is revamping recreation areas. In this effort he has partnered with community groups and the town of San Luis.

“I fear the many projects I have set in motion will end if I am not given a full term to represent the needs of our community and to carry on their vision,” he said.

He said he has built many relationships with the other commissioners in the county, the towns of Blanca and San Luis, the school districts, state, local and federal governments, as well as officials and community organizations to truly better the quality of life for the residents of Costilla County.”

“We need someone who will continue this,” he said, adding that he is not in the race for his own interests.

“I sincerely and truly care about bettering the quality of life of the people.” 

Esquibel’s interest in serving others started when he joined the United States Army at 18.

“I learned many lessons in the bumpy road of life. After becoming a father, I dedicated my time, not only to my own kids but to mentoring children in the community.”

  He is encouraging high school students turning 18 to register and vote this November. “Take charge of your county and community early.”

  Esquibel became a leader of Los Padres, which teaches mothers and fathers along with grandparents how vital their role is in their child’s life. He has also coached the Pee-Wee Basketball, allowing kids to have an extracurricular activity by being physically active.

  This work inspired him to run for school board, and he was elected once.

  “Our kids didn’t get a fair deal with a faulty geo-thermal system,” he said. “I fought hard to correct the problem. Our kids were suffering in an unhealthy environment freezing which became a huge distraction to their learning ability.  I traveled to Denver to speak to state representatives on the Education Committee, Department of Education and the BEST Schools program to get this issue addressed. I was not afraid to ask the tough questions, hold people accountable and reign in a new era of accountability and transparency.”

  On the Planning and Zoning Commission, Esquibel brought the spirit of being a ditch rider for 16 years along as the knowledge that was passed down from his forefathers to protect the land and water. He and his colleagues updated the Land Use Code “and made sensible decisions that help our agricultural community like allowing the use of metal containers.”

  Esquibel concluded, “My faith and as a Penitente of La Morada I believe that if I lead with sound inspiration of God and lead the way Jesus taught, we can’t go in the wrong direction. Family is number one and in our close-knit community, we are family and you are number one.”

  He said he believes he is the best candidate to represent residents’ values.

  “No one will work harder or be more passionate about our county as I am. Que Dios los bendiga.”