BY MELANEE HAND
Democratic Candidate for
Los Alamos County Council

I seek the opportunity to continue serving Los Alamos County, I want to share how I have contributed behind the scenes over the past four-plus years. Anyone can see how I voted on hundreds of issues and initiatives in Council Sessions over the four plus years I have already served, and to mention only a few popular topics does not encompass the full scope of the job as a County Councilor.

The work of a County Councilor is often constrained by the Open Meetings Act and by the structure of our government, where no Councilor can direct staff on operational matters or talk to more than 2 other Councilors about an upcoming agenda item before a vote. Yet within those boundaries, I have worked hard to influence outcomes, elevate community concerns, and strengthen regional collaboration.

One of our community’s greatest challenges is the competition for employees. Small businesses cannot match the salaries and benefits of large employers or national chains, and LANL’s recruitment of already‑housed local workers has intensified the strain. I have consistently raised this issue with LANL and DOE, helping them understand the real impacts on our local economy and encouraging others to speak openly about the hardships this creates. I have also advocated for simpler permitting processes and better communication with small businesses, including those affected by construction and County processes.

I have spoken up for residents at Elk Ridge Mobile Home Park, recognizing the communication breakdowns between government and business that left them in a difficult situation. I have pushed to reduce the cost of long-term, unnecessary lawsuits; clarified document review processes so every Councilor has an equal voice; and encouraged improvements in customer service training for County staff to strengthen the public’s experience.

Wildlife and animal welfare have also been priorities. I have advocated for safer roads by highlighting wildlife collisions as a traffic‑safety issue, and I have worked to clarify the mission of the Animal Shelter so that animal welfare—not punitive public safety—guides its operations.

Regionally, I have increased my participation in transportation, economic development, and workforce initiatives, strengthening trust and collaboration with neighboring counties and Pueblos. I have supported regional projects that benefit both Los Alamos and the many LANL employees who live off the hill. I have also supported a range of housing efforts—both locally and regionally—along with improved broadband access.

Throughout my term, I have encouraged more meaningful public involvement in County processes, helping residents understand how local government works and how they can influence outcomes. I have empowered Boards and Commissions by offering ways they can contribute more effectively. As liaison, I have served with nine County boards, commissions, and committees, and on at least an additional eight working groups and external boards each year. My goal has always been to provide ideas that inspire improvement, regardless of who receives the credit.

I have used my background in planning, construction, and environmental stewardship to inform decisions, and I have taken part in County programs—from fire protection to senior services to recreation—to better understand them from a user’s perspective. I have identified gaps in animal welfare, regional assistance, and human services, bringing forward perspectives that strengthen Council decision‑making. As the spouse of a long‑time small business owner, I also bring a dual understanding of both business and government challenges.

I have offered alternative viewpoints when needed, even when they were not the most popular, because practical solutions often require looking beyond the obvious. I have encouraged smarter, balanced growth that considers budget, benefit, and long‑term impact. And I have consistently supported and practiced environmental sustainability, including broader recycling and re-use efforts and responsible land‑use planning.

Los Alamos is making progress on housing, but success requires collaboration with developers, state and federal programs, and community priorities. I have advocated for strategic planning that aligns Council and staff work plans, improves funding pathways, and reduces unnecessary costs. Public input remains essential—recent cost‑saving ideas from stable owners are just one example of how community expertise leads to better outcomes.

Serving this community has been an honor. I remain committed to safety, health, behavioral health, social services, strong communication, and smart governance. These priorities will guide me in the years ahead, or hopefully will guide those who are chosen to lead into the future.