Rick Needham, a former Alamosa Police Department detective sergeant and former chief of police for Monte Vista, has announced his candidacy for the Alamosa County Commissioner District 1 seat.
Needham, a Democrat, will challenge Lori Laske, a Republican, for the seat on the Alamosa County Board of Commissioners.
In a campaign announcement, Needham said his vision for the county encompasses integrity, inclusivity, and sustainable growth. He said his advocacy for the less fortunate, demonstrated through his involvement with organizations like La Puente and Tu Casa, underscores his dedication to community welfare.
“This is an exciting time for Alamosa,” Needham said. “Together, we have the opportunity to
shape a future that benefits all residents, while preserving our cherished freedoms, educational
opportunities, and natural landscapes.”
As commissioner, Needham said he would foster collaboration between the community, NGOs,
elected officials, and county staff to develop a strategic plan that prioritizes efficiency and
responsiveness to local needs. He said his objectives include representing all constituents of his district, ensuring transparency in governmental actions, and preserving the unique rural character of Alamosa.
Needham has lived in Alamosa for five decades and served as a detective sergeant with Alamosa Police Department and later worked as Monte Vista’s chief of police. In 2015, Needham was named chief of the Wapato, Wash. police department.
While at the Monte Vista police department, Needham oversaw the introduction of a school resource officer program with the support of the Monte Vista school district and Rio Grande County Sheriff’s Office.
In his candidacy announcement, Needham says he will run for commissioner with fiscal responsibility and efficient project management. He noted that while working as Monte Vista’s chief of police, he facilitated the relocation of the police department to city hall where it remains today.
After graduating from Columbine High School in Littleton, Needham came to the San Luis Valley to attend Adams State College. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in biology with minors in chemistry and psychology, he then earned his MBA in public administration from ASU.