Let's Take Care of Our Home and Get Stuff Done
In the column below, Justin reflects on what Santa Fe has meant to him over the last 30 years — and why now is the time for steady, practical leadership rooted in care, collaboration, and action. This op-ed first appeared in The Santa Fe New Mexican on Wednesday, October 30, 2025.
I love Santa Fe: the people, the culture, the architecture and the shared spirit that makes this place truly our City Different. When I first arrived here at 23, I had no idea how deeply this city would shape my life. More than 30 years later, I have built a life, a business, and relationships rooted in trust, service and collaboration.
But like many Santa Feans, I have watched our city lose its way. Too many of us feel unheard and priced out of the place we love. Public safety has declined, and homelessness continues to grow. My wife and I experienced some of these challenges firsthand when we faced a threatening situation and struggled to get help. It was frightening and frustrating. That lack of response was what motivated me to run for Santa Fe County Commission. I knew we could do better, and I knew we deserved better.
As a county commissioner, I have been humbled by the response from residents across Santa Fe County, from Santa Fe to Chimayó. Many have shared their appreciation for my hands-on approach and steady follow-through. Hearing that my work is making a difference reminds me that when you lead with hard work, honesty and consistency, people notice and trust grows.
I’m a small-business owner, architect and county commissioner who believes leadership starts with listening. I don’t just talk about problems, I work to solve them. I help write policy, plan projects and follow through until results are delivered. My approach is simple: teamwork, accountability and action.
As commissioner, I’ve focused on the basics that matter most: public safety, housing and health. I’ve worked to expand affordable housing programs, strengthen partnerships with neighboring communities and secure funding for safety improvements. I’ve also championed wildfire prevention, infrastructure investment and more resources for behavioral health. When I see a need, I get involved and stay involved until the job gets done.
What defines me is not politics, it is people. What drives me is gratitude. Santa Fe gave me a home, a purpose and a community I love. I learned from my mother, who welcomed immigrants and exiles into our home, that compassion and inclusion are not things to say, they are things to do. Our kitchen table always had room for one more, and my wife and I have carried those values into our lives and work.
I have had the privilege of mentoring immigrant youth, helping them apply to college and celebrate their successes. Through our company, Dashing Delivery, we partnered with The Food Depot in a program that has provided more than 50,000 meals for families across Northern New Mexico. Dashing matches every donation, proving that small businesses and neighbors can create big change together.
I also serve on a nonprofit board that trains professionals to treat people living with MS, stroke and other neurological challenges, because everyone deserves access to healing and care.
Why am I running for mayor? Because I believe in Santa Fe and want to give back what this city has given to me. For more than three decades, I’ve helped shape beloved public spaces, built businesses that support others and strengthened our community. Now I want to bring that experience, collaboration and care to tackle the challenges of our time: housing, safety and economic opportunity, providing leadership Santa Fe needs now more than ever.
You can read the full plan at www.JustinGreene.com/blueprint
I would be honored to earn your vote on Nov. 4.
My door will always be open, and there will always be a seat at the table for everyone.
This is our home. Let’s take care of it — and each other. Let’s get stuff done.
Justin Greene is a candidate for mayor of the city of Santa Fe, businessman and current county commissioner.
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