David Coss was elected in 2006 to serve as Mayor of the City of Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the U.S. known internationally for its unique historic, cultural, artistic and creative heritage. 

Among Mayor Coss’ priorities is protecting Santa Fe’s water and environment. Mayor Coss considers supporting local businesses, the Santa Fe Living Wage Ordinance and affordable housing programs as integral to strengthening Santa Fe’s economy and supporting working families.  He envisions Santa Fe becoming the sustainability and alternative energy capitol of the country.

Experience
Mayor Coss holds a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Science from New Mexico State and a master’s degree in Zoology from Southern Illinois University. After completing his master’s degree, Mayor Coss worked as a surface water scientist for the State of New Mexico.  During this time, he became active in his union and worked to create the New Mexico Environment Department and became Director of the Environmental Protection Division within NMED.

In 1995, Mayor Coss became Director of Public Works for the City of Santa Fe, where his dedication to restoring the Santa Fe River formalized.  During that time, he was instrumental in creating the Santa Fe River Masterplan and worked on the river restoration between St. Francis Drive and Camino Alire.  After working as City Manager in 1996, Mayor Coss completed his public service career at the State Land Office where he continued his work in environmental protection and natural resource management.