The Government Finance Officers Association recognized Lesley Doyle for her leadership during a critical financial period for the city, including work to help close a projected budget shortfall without reducing essential services.

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - City of Las Cruces Finance Director Lesley Doyle has been selected by the Government Finance Officers Association as a 2026 recipient of its Recognition for Outstanding Public Service.

The national honor recognizes exceptional contributions to public finance and local government service.

City officials said the award recognizes Doyle’s leadership during a critical financial period for Las Cruces. Doyle stepped into the finance director role as the city’s FY25 audit identified a projected beginning balance shortfall of more than $10 million in a community of nearly 120,000 residents.

Doyle led a coordinated effort to clearly communicate the city’s financial situation to departments, executive leadership and the Las Cruces City Council, while working with the budget team to close the gap without reducing essential services, according to the city.

Assistant Finance Director Josie Trevino credited Doyle with building a culture of trust and collaboration between the Finance Department and other city departments from the beginning of her tenure.

Doyle came to municipal government after a career in public education, transitioning from a school district into city finance leadership. City officials said that in her first year, she emphasized open communication, transparency and proactive problem-solving while strengthening relationships across the organization and fostering a positive workplace culture within the Finance Department.

“The balance of technical skill and genuine care for people is what makes Lesley’s leadership unique,” Trevino said.

The Government Finance Officers Association has published Doyle’s recognition on its website. Her story also will be highlighted in an upcoming GFOA newsletter and at the annual GFOA conference.