Joshua Jones, the newest member of the Sandoval County Commission, took part in his first commission meeting Wednesday night in the commission’s chambers.

Jones, who represents District 5 (northwest Sandoval County) was appointed to the commission Tuesday by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and was sworn in Wednesday. Jones fills a vacancy created by the resignation of former Commissioner F. Kenneth Eichwald, who was elected in November 2022 as Sandoval County Magistrate Court Judge.

Jones was introduced by District 1 rep Katherine Bruch and welcomed by Jay Block of District 2.

“It is an honor and pleasure to be here today, and it is an honor and a pleasure to be appointed to this position,” Jones said. “My main mission here with this appointment is to serve and work for the people. I’m excited to be here among these great commissioners, and hopefully we can do some collaborative work together and I think it’s time to get to work.”

After Dr. Juliette Sweet from the Jemez Valley Community Wellness made a presentation to the commission, Jones had his first comments of the meeting.

“I do believe you are from my district so it’s very nice to meet you,” Jones said. “As I get older, I understand how health is very necessary and what we put in our bodies is very necessary. I’d love to continue the conversation to see what we can do to help you.”

Other than that, it was a quiet first meeting for Jones, who voted along with his fellow commissioners on each vote.

“I know that Josh will work hard for all the residents of Sandoval County, and I am excited to serve with him on the commission,” Bruch said.

Jones’ district includes northwestern Sandoval County, including the communities of Zia Pueblo, San Ysidro, San Luis, Torreon, Cuba, Regina, La Jara, Counselors, Ponderosa, Jemez Pueblo, Cañon, Jemez Springs, La Cueva, portions of Peña Blanca, portions of the Santo Domingo Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo, and Sile.