Paul Weimer sworn in as mayor of Rio Rancho; outgoing mayor passes gavel

Paul Weimer was sworn in as mayor of Rio Rancho during a public ceremony where he pledged to continue the city’s current plans and “keep this city moving forward.” Paul Weimer (S3) repeated the oath to “uphold the Constitution and laws of the United States, the constitution and laws of the state of New Mexico, the charter and laws of the city of Rio Rancho” and to “faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of said office.”

Weimer thanked his campaign team, volunteers and financial supporters and said the city has been the state’s fastest-growing municipality; he added it “will soon be the second largest in the state.” Weimer told the audience his administration’s promise is to maintain the pace of progress achieved during the previous mayor’s years in office and said he looks forward to serving a four-year term. He announced a reception in the overflow room after the ceremony.

Before the oath, a city official guided the ceremonial procedure and administered the oath. Deacon Ayers (S5) offered an invocation asking for wisdom and protection for the new mayor and his family. After Weimer’s remarks, the outgoing mayor addressed the audience, thanked city staff and supporters for their service during the outgoing mayor’s tenure, and presented the ceremonial gavel to Weimer while urging the community to support the new administration.

The emcee (S1) opened the event and recognized several local officials in attendance, including Councilor Bob Tyler, Councilor Nicole List, Councilor Chris Colbert, Councilor Dapson, an individual referenced as Councilor Landon (surname not specified in the transcript), State Representative Josh Hernandez (District 60), Sandoval County Commissioner Juarez, and former Sandoval County chair Dave Hiles. The ceremony concluded with an invitation to a reception with light refreshments.

The ceremony was largely ceremonial and did not include any formal votes or policy decisions. The mayor’s remarks emphasized continuity with existing city plans and called for community support during his term.