Among the Santa Fe City Council's four districts, District 3 has more children, more new development and fewer registered voters than the other districts. Census data also show the southwest-side district has the highest percentage of Hispanic residents.

The district includes the Tierra Contenta housing development as well as Airport Road, and the land along Agua Fría Road that isn't part of Agua Fría village. It includes several areas more recognized for industry than for homes -- including the Siler Road and Rufina Street areas and the Santa Fe Municipal Airport. It also features dense residential areas known for affordability, with many dwellings that are mobile homes or apartments.

Whoever wins the three-way contest in the March 6 municipal election to represent the district will replace long-serving Councilor Miguel Chavez, who isn't seeking re-election because last summer's redrawing of district boundaries left his home outside the new District 3.

One candidate, Chris Rivera, has expertise in public safety as a retired firefighter and fire chief. Another, Gilbert Martinez, comes ready-made to serve on the Public Utilities Committee, having retired from a 30-year career with the local electric utility. A third, Marie Campos, specializes in grass-roots economic development.

Each council district has two representatives, elected to staggered four-year terms. The second District 3 seat is held by Carmichael Dominguez, a former school board member who ran unopposed for his second four-year council term in 2010.