City of Carlsbad Newsletter: January 2026

MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

CITY OF CARLSBAD January 2026

Carlsbad, where adventure runs deep.”

www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

101 N. Halagueno Street, Carlsbad NM

TABLE OF CONTENTS Connect with Us

03

Message from the Mayor

05

Employee Polls

08

Department Spotlight

10

Pets of the Month

12

Christmas Door Contest

14

WELCOME!

Cavern Theatre Hours

16

Happy New Year and welcome to the January City of Carlsbad newsletter!

January Events

18

Crossword Puzzle

20

Public Notices

25

Holiday Closures

28

City Council

30

Frequently Used Numbers

31

www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

In this issue, you will find a Happy New Year message from Mayor Lopez as he recaps 2025 and looks ahead to 2026. There is a lot happening at the Cavern Theatre, including a special double feature of Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the original film. Plus, get a sneak peek at the new Cascades Recreation and Wellness Center and learn more about what is happening around Carlsbad as we begin the new year.

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CONNECT WITH US! Instagram: @keep.carlsbad.beautiful Facebook: @cityofcarlsbadnmgovernment @keepcarlsbadbeautiful Indeed: @CityofCarlsbadNM Past Event Photos

LinkedIn: @CityofCarlsbadNMTourism

Did you get snapped at our latest events? Check check our social media to see if you were snapped!

YouTube: @explorecarlsbadnm2316 Check out our tourism page!

Scan here! www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Dear Neighbors & Friends: As we welcome a new year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the many accomplishments Carlsbad achieved in 2025 and the momentum we are carrying into 2026. This past year was marked by numerous meaningful projects that strengthened our community, enhanced the quality of life, and showcased the natural beauty that makes Carlsbad such a special place to live and visit.

One of the most recent additions to our city was the new Carlsbad sign along the Pecos River.

Completed in September, the sign has quickly become a favorite photo spot for visitors commemorating their time in Carlsbad. It also serves as a symbol of pride for our community and our connection to the river. This project was completed by a group of six women from Leadership Carlsbad, and their dedication and creativity deserve recognition. We look forward to celebrating this accomplishment with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 5.

Along the Riverwalk, we also celebrated the opening of the Fitness Court in June. This free, stateof-the-art outdoor gym was made possible through a collaboration with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico and the National Fitness Campaign. Designed for all fitness levels, the Fitness Court offers residents a new way to stay active while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Pecos River.

Another long-awaited milestone in 2025 was the reopening of the Cavern Theatre in June. Since reopening, the theatre has consistently shown movies that the community wants to see, and it has once again become a gathering place for residents. I would like to commend Cavern Theatre Director Denise Green for her invaluable work and dedication to reviving this beloved venue.

We also made progress in several key areas that support Carlsbad’s growth and future.

Improvements to the irrigation system at Lake Carlsbad Golf Course were completed, along with a rebranding effort that restored the course to its original identity. In addition, the City of Carlsbad www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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introduced a refreshed logo that is more modern and simplified while still reflecting our strong sense of community pride.

Construction also continued on the new Cascades Recreation and Wellness Center, formerly known as the North Mesa Senior Center. This new facility represents an exciting step forward for recreation, wellness, and community connection in Carlsbad. Sometime in the new year, services will transition to the new location. More information about the Cascades Recreation and Wellness Center can be found in this January newsletter.

Looking ahead, we are excited about what the future holds for air travel in Carlsbad. Contour Airlines is expected to begin service in 2026 with flights to Denver. The expansion of TSA services opens the door to future travel possibilities, including flights to Dallas and Albuquerque.

These developments create new opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

None of this progress would have been possible without the dedication and teamwork of the City Council, City Manager Wendy Austin, Deputy City Manager Ken Ahrens, and our department directors, who continue to lead their teams with excellence. I would also like to sincerely thank all City of Carlsbad employees for their hard work and dedication to serving our community every day.

As we move into 2026, we remain focused on projects and goals that keep residents at the forefront of every decision. From advancing attainable housing projects to continuing investments that enhance quality of life, we are excited to build on the foundation laid in 2025. On behalf of the City of Carlsbad, I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.

Sincerely,

Carlsbad Mayor Rick Lopez Email: mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Phone: (575) 887-1191

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JANUARY EMPLOYEE POLLS Which best describes your New Year approach?

What’s most likely on your desk or in your bag right now?

If you could have any fantasy pet, which would you pick?

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Which fictional character would survive your typical workday?

If you could teleport anywhere for a day, where would you go?

Which “superpower” would help you most at work?

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DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT

A LOOK INTO THE CASCADES RECREATION AND WELLNESS CENTER The City of Carlsbad is preparing for the relocation of the North Mesa Senior Center to a new facility at The Cascades. This move will allow for expanded programming, improved accessibility, and additional amenities to better serve the community.

As part of the relocation, the facility will be renamed the Cascades Recreation and Wellness Center. The name was selected by the benefactors and is intended to emphasize the importance of recreation and wellness. While the word “Senior” has been removed from the name, the center will continue to serve adults ages 40 and older.

The new Cascades Recreation and Wellness Center is nearly 2.5 times larger than the current North Mesa location. The increased size will allow the facility to accommodate additional activities and programs, including an auditorium large enough to hold three regulation-size pickleball courts.

The expanded space will make it possible to offer programs that could not be accommodated at the previous location due to space limitations. These include card game groups, book clubs, lapidary classes, and photography. The new facility will also include a commercial kitchen, which will support nutritional classes and related programs.

The Cascades location is more centrally located and highly visible, which is expected to improve accessibility and convenience for residents. City staff anticipate a significant increase in daily participation once the center opens. Unlike the current location, the new facility will also include outdoor space, allowing for the introduction

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of outdoor activities and events such as picnics, gardening, fitness programming, tai chi, and barbecues. Plans also include a vegetable garden to support education and wellness.

The relocation is expected to encourage increased

participation

and

create

opportunities for volunteers to share their skills and talents. Residents interested in contributing ideas for new activities, events, or educational opportunities are encouraged to contact center staff.

The Cascades Recreation and Wellness is expected to open in early 2026. The center will initially operate under the current schedule of Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., with the potential to expand hours following an evaluation of participation and community needs. Updates will be provided every few weeks as the opening date approaches.

The City of Carlsbad looks forward to welcoming residents to the new Cascades Recreation and Wellness Center. This stateof-the-art

facility

opportunities

to

will stay

provide active,

more

try

new

programs, and connect with the community, creating

a

vibrant

space

for

health,

wellness, and lifelong learning. Stay tuned for updates as we approach our opening in early 2026!

Sincerely,

Dina Navarrette Community Development Director www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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Pets of the Month

Meet the adorable pets of our City of Carlsbad employees!

Name: Javier Pawrent: Leo Lara I first found him under a pallet here at work. He likes to chase butterflies in the garden!

Name: Snickers Pawrent: Sandy Barley My one-month-old Nigerian Pygmy Goat. I have eight goats all together.

Name: Lulu Pawrent: Taryn Chacon Sadly, we lost her two months ago at 11 and have missed her dearly. Sassy yet loving, she adored cuddles and sitting in anyone’s lap. Her passing broke our hearts.

Name: Meeko Pawrent: Matt and Amee Fletcher

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He got his name from the character in Disney's Pocahontas, because his tail has black and white rings that make him look like a racoon.

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101 N. Halagueno Street, Carlsbad NM

2025 CITY HALL CHRISTMAS DOOR DECORATING CONTEST 1st Place: The Cashier’s Department (Monica Watts, Casandra Ramos, Bertha Armendariz, Vanessa Ornelas, and Yami Dorado) 2nd Place: Payroll (Misty Balcazar)

3rd Place: City Clerk’s Office (Stephan Brown and Dana Hernandez)

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CAV E R N T H E AT R E JANUARY SCHEDULE

January 3: Bedknobs and Broomsticks January 10: Beauty and the Beast (1991) January 17: Batman: The Movie (1966) January 24: Rocky (1976)

MOVIES EVERY SATURDAY AT 2:00 PM & 6:00 PM 210 N. Canyon St, Carlsbad, New Mexico

Facebook: @CavernTheatre

TICKET PRICING: Adults - $8 | Children - $5 | Senior (55+) - $5 Doors will open to the theatre 30 minutes before the scheduled showtime.

PLUS: A DOUBLE FEATURE OF TOP GUN (40TH ANNIVERSARY) & TOP GUN: MAVERICK ON JANUARY 31ST!

www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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JANUARY EVENTS AND DATES

For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.

Thurs. January 1st:

Wed. January 14th:

City of Carlsbad Offices

Carlsbad Public Library

and Facilities Closed for

LEGO Time

New Year’s

Sat. January 17th:

Sat. January 3rd:

Carlsbad Community

Affirming Heart Victim

Concerts Presents:

Services Presents: Ring

Lauren Jelencovich

in the New Year 5K Run

Mon. January 19th:

& Walk

City of Carlsbad Offices

Tues. January 6th:

Closed for Martin Luther

Trivia Night at Milton’s

King Jr. Day

Brewing

Martin Luther King Jr.

Wed. January 7th:

Annual March

Carlsbad Public Library

Martin Luther King Jr.

LEGO Time

Annual Ceremony

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Tues. January 20th:

Thurs. January 22nd

SENMC American Heart

Continued:

Association First

Age Friendly Council

Aid/CPR

Presents: Mental Health

Trivia Night at Milton’s

Public Forum

Brewing

Wed. January 28th:

Wed. January 21st:

Carlsbad Public Library

SENMC Confined Space Course

LEGO Time Fri. January 30th:

Carlsbad Public Library

Storytime at the Living

LEGO Time

Desert Zoo

Brews and Books at Milton’s Brewing Thurs. January 22nd: SENMC Hot Work/Fire Safety Training

For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.

www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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JANUARY CROSSWORD

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DOWN: 1.

A warm drink to enjoy on a chilly day

2.

A feeling of expectation and desire for good things ahead

3.

Feeling warm and comfortable indoors during winter

5.

Personal goals set for the new year

8.

Fun activities and events for the new year

9.

The final moments before the new year begins

10. A handheld firework that emits sparks 12. The hour when the new year officially begins

ACCROSS:

4. A joyful event to mark a special occasion 6. A sky covered with clouds during winter 7. Thinking about the past year and lessons learned 11. Explosive displays that light up the night sky 13 Customs observed each new year 14. Tiny colorful pieces tossed during parties 15. Messages or greetings shared during the new year season See page 31 for answer key. www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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101 N. Halagueno Street, Carlsbad NM

PUBLIC NOTICES

RELEASE – LAKE CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE TOURNAMENTS & LEAGUES The City of Carlsbad invites golfers to participate in upcoming tournaments and league play at Lake Carlsbad Golf Course, located at 901 Muscatel Avenue. All tournaments can be entered by calling or visiting the Pro Shop.

Upcoming Events: New Year Shootout – 1-person scramble | 10 A.M. Shotgun | $50 per player MLK Scramble – 3-person scramble | 10 A.M. Shotgun | $50 per player Twilight Tour – Season 2 1-person stroke play league | Net Division / Gross Division / Skins Mondays at 3 P.M., beginning January 5 and continuing January 12, 19, and 26.

For additional information, please contact the Pro Shop at 575-887-1191. We look forward to seeing you on the greens! www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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RELEASE – MLK MARCH TRAFFIC NOTICE The City of Carlsbad will have temporary traffic stoppages for the MLK March on Monday, January 19. The march will begin at the corner of E. Plaza Street and S. Canyon Street and proceed north on Canyon Street to the Cavern Theatre, starting at 10:00 A.M. Traffic will continue to flow normally, with brief stops as marchers pass. Drivers are asked to use caution and watch for participants along the route to help keep everyone safe.

For questions, please contact the City of Carlsbad at 575-887-1191.

www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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UPCOMING HOLIDAY CLOSURES FOR 2026 Martin Luther King Day: Monday, January 19, 2026 Good Friday: Friday, April 3, 2026 Memorial Day: Monday, May 25, 2026 Juneteenth Day: Friday, June 19, 2026 Independence Day: Friday, July 3, 2026 Labor Day: Monday, September 7, 2026 Veterans Day: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 26, 2026 Day after Thanksgiving: Friday, November 27, 2026 Christmas Eve: Thursday, December 24, 2026 Christmas Day: Friday, December 25, 2026 New Year’s Day: Friday, January 1, 2027 www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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Solid Waste New Year’s Schedule 2026: Thursday, January 1st: Solid Waste, the Convenience Station and Sandpoint Landfill will be CLOSED. Friday, January 2nd: Thursday’s scheduled trash pickup.

Saturday, January 3rd: Friday’s scheduled trash pick-up.

Regular schedules and hours will resume the following week on Monday, January 5.

Questions? 575.885.0042

CITY COUNCIL Richard Lopez, Mayor mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Ward 1 Lisa Anaya-Flores | laflores@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Edward Rodriguez | etrodriguez@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Ward 2 Jeff Forrest | jjforrest@cityofcarlsbadnm.com JJ Chavez | jochavez@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Ward 3 Mary Garwood | msgarwood@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Karla Hamel Niemeier | kjniemeier@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Ward 4 Mark Walterscheid | mewalterscheid@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Anthony Foreman | arforeman@cityofcarlsbadnm.com

CITY ADMINISTRATION Wendy Austin, City Manager wdaustin@cityofcarlsbadnm.com Ken Ahrens, Deputy City Manager ksahrens@cityofcarlsbadnm.com KC Cass, Chief Operating Officer kccass@cityofcarlsbadnm.com www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com

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FREQUENTLY USED NUMBERS City Switchboard:

575.887.1191

Utility Billing:

575.887.1191

Code Enforcement:

575.885.1185

Municipal Court:

575.885.3363

Solid Waste:

575.885.0042

Water Maintenance:

575.885.6313

Non-emergency Fire & Police Police Dispatch:

575.885.2111

Fire Dispatch:

575.885.3125 For emergencies please call 911.

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101 N. Halagueno Street, Carlsbad NM