Paul Wymer projected to win Rio Rancho mayoral runoff election

RIO RANCHO, N.M. – Paul Wymer is projected to win Rio Rancho’s mayoral election.

Early results on Tuesday night showed Wymer had 64% of the vote with over 16,000 votes counted. The general election last month saw a total of 13,757 ballots cast.

Wymer currently serves on the Rio Rancho City Council.

His opponent, Alexandria Piland, is a former teacher.

Mayor Gregg Hull decided not to seek reelection so he could run for governor of New Mexico, paving the way for a change in leadership in Rio Rancho.

“We are going to continue on the same path as Mayor Hull,” Wymer said. “If there is anything we are going to do different, it’s to expand on the accomplishments we have already made.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Wymer said he was already ready to take on the job.

“Having worked side by side with Mayor Hull for the last 6 years, I think it will be a smooth transition,” Wymer said. “I know exactly what to expect out of the gates. Well be working on the budget, that’s first and foremost and typically one of the first things the new mayor has to tackle. We’ve already got meetings scheduled to take a look at that budget.”

Wymer’s term will begin on May 1.