Welcome to the June Edition of the City of Carlsbad Newsletter!
Summer is here, and there’s a lot happening around Carlsbad! In this issue, you’ll find a message from Mayor Rick Lopez with updates on summer hours at our city facilities and a look ahead at activities for residents of all ages. We’re also shining a spotlight on the Finance Department and the important role they play in keeping our city running smoothly.
From family events to new programs and plenty of ways to stay cool, June is packed with opportunities to enjoy the season. Let’s make it a great summer together!
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Past Event Photos
Did you get snapped at our latest events? Check check our social media to see if you were snapped!
Pets of the Month
Name: Heidi Bratcher
Pawrent: Haley Bratcher
She bullies our other two dogs even
Meet the adorable pets of our City o deathbed.
Pawrents: Ray & Kristina Henderson
She is all about self-care, so her favorite pastime is hurkle durkling on the couch in her favorite blanket...and occasional walks to the park.
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
Dear Neighbors & Friends:
Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes an exciting lineup of events and activities for our community. As we move into the season, I want to begin by acknowledging the importance of Juneteenth. In observance of the holiday, all City offices will be closed. Juneteenth is a significant time to reflect on our nation's history, celebrate progress, and continue the work toward a more inclusive future.
There’s no better way to beat the heat than by visiting the Carlsbad Water Park, which is now open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is only $5 per person. The park is also available for party rentals, perfect for birthdays and summer gatherings. It's located at 708 Park Drive. For more information or to book a party, call (575) 887-0349 or contact Courtney Lindsey, the manager, at cmlindsey@cityofcarlsbadnm.com.
If you ’ re looking for more outdoor fun, the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course Driving Range is open as well Outdoor range hours are from Wednesday to Monday, 7 a m to 2 p m , and Tuesday hours from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. due to maintenance. The Driving Range Lounge and Simulators are open Thursday through Monday from 2:30 p m to 9 p m It’s a great way to sharpen your swing or try something new indoors.
Miniature golf is another perfect summer activity for families and kids. While it's available year-round, it’s especially fun this time of year Hours are 7 a m to 9 p m daily, except on Tuesdays when it opens at noon. Entry is just $5.
We’re also looking forward to this year ’ s CavernFest, hosted by MainStreet on June 13th and 14th This annual festival features an incredible lineup of live music, delicious food, local vendors, and activities for all ages. For more details, visit cavernfest.com.
Preparations are well underway for our annual 4th of July celebration. This year ’ s theme is “Red, White and Blue on the River,” and we’re working hard to bring together a fantastic entertainment lineup. Carlsbad MainStreet will once again host the beloved parade, and we encourage everyone to keep an eye out for more details coming out this month We are currently still seeking Gold and Silver sponsors for this year ’ s event. Our 4th of July celebration wouldn’t be possible without the support of our generous community partners. If your business is interested in being a sponsor, please contact Valeria Bannister at (575) 8871191 or email publicinformation@cityofcarlsbadnm.com.
We are excited to invite the community to the grand opening of the new Fitness Court along the Pecos River, near the Riverwalk Recreation Complex. This project, made possible through a partnership between the City of Carlsbad, Blue Cross Blue Shield New Mexico, and the National Fitness Campaign, is part of a shared commitment to promoting healthier, more active lifestyles in our community. The Fitness Court is free to use and open to the public at any time of day, offering a unique opportunity to work out while enjoying a beautiful view of the river. Join us for the grand opening celebration on June 25, 2025, at 10 a.m.
Finally, I’m thrilled to share that the long-anticipated opening of the Cavern Theatre will take place this month! We’re excited to welcome the public back to this historic venue More details and dates will be released soon, so stay tuned. I wish you and your families a safe, joyful, and memorable start to the summer!
Sincerely,
CarlsbadMayorRickLopez
Email: mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Phone: (575) 887-1191
A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We re excited to introduce a new subscription service designed to keep Carlsbad residents better informed Whether you're interested in City alerts, news, or public meetings, you now have the option to receive updates directly to your email or phone—no social media needed.
To sign up, visit www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com. A slide will appear asking if you'd like to receive updates Just type in your email address and click “Subscribe ”
You can choose the topics that matter most to you:
Alerts (email or text)
City News & Announcements (email or text)
Public Meetings & Agendas (email only)
You’re in control. You don’t have to subscribe to every topic, just the ones you care about.
We know that not everyone is online or on social media, so we’re finding new ways to connect with our community An upcoming water bill will include more information and stepby-step instructions, and we’ll also offer in-person workshops at local senior centers to help walk people through the sign-up process.
In the meantime, we encourage you to sign up through the City’s website and share this opportunity with your family and friends. If someone you know could use help signing up, we hope you’ll lend a hand. Staying informed has never been easier, and we’re here to help every step of the way!
Sincerely,
ValeriaBannister
Communication Specialist
JUNE EMPLOYEE POLLS JUNE EMPLOYEE POLLS
What’s your favorite summer activity in Carlsbad?
What time of day do you feel most productive?
Which summer event are you most looking forward to?
your
What’s your biggest challenge on a hot workday in Carlsbad?
How hot does it have to get before you complain?
FINANCE
DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT
The Finance Department plays a key role in keeping the City of Carlsbad running smoothly Our responsibilities include processing and recording all revenue received by the City, such as Gross Receipts Tax, Lodgers’ Tax, grant funding, and utility payments. We pay invoices to vendors, process purchase orders, oversee Bids and RFPs, and manage the City's budget. Our team also prepares monthly financial statements and ensures the annual financial audit is completed on time.
The cashier’s office, which falls under the Finance Department, handles many of the services that residents interact with directly. This includes accepting payments for utility bills, processing new applications for utility service, handling disconnections, issuing animal licenses, and answering customer questions. The cashier’s office also processes all other funds received by the City from various departments and outside vendors.
Last year, we began remodeling the cashier’s office due to outdated infrastructure, limited space, and growing safety concerns. The space previously offered very little room for employees to work efficiently throughout the day and provided minimal protection in case of emergencies, such as an active shooter situation. The renovation was completed this past May and included several key improvements. These updates created more space for both employees and the public, and bulletproof windows were installed to enhance safety for staff while also giving customers more privacy during transactions The feedback we’ve received since the remodel has been overwhelmingly positive residents and staff alike have shared that they appreciate the changes.
Transparency and accountability are central to how we operate. The Finance Department prepares detailed monthly financial statements and oversees the annual financial audit Both
are presented at City Council meetings and made available to the public as part of the City Council agenda. The City’s annual budget is also published online to ensure residents have access to information on how public funds are being used
To help manage the budget efficiently, we use an ERP financial system and work closely with City administration and all departments to develop and maintain budget plans. In addition, the City has an advisory budget committee that meets monthly to review financial items, provide feedback, and support long-term planning.
We’re proud of several recent accomplishments In addition to completing the cashier’s office remodel, the FY26 Interim Budget was approved and submitted to the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration. These milestones reflect the effort and coordination of our entire department and our ongoing focus on improving City operations.
The Finance Department is made up of several sub-departments and areas of focus, including Purchasing, Accounts Payable, Payroll, Fixed Assets, Utility Billing, Budget, and Cashiering Each team plays a vital role in day-to-day operations. For example, Purchasing and Accounts Payable work together to ensure that all City purchases are properly authorized and paid. Utility Billing and Cashiering coordinate closely to address customer concerns, issue accurate billing, and handle payments. These areas also collaborate with all other City departments to process payments, monitor labor costs, allocate operational and capital funding, and maintain overall financial accuracy and compliance
Residents may not always see the work our team does, but every member of the Finance Department is committed to ensuring public funds are managed efficiently and with integrity. Our goal is to support every City department with the financial tools and oversight they need to deliver services effectively
Looking ahead, we’re continuing to explore new ways to improve customer service and streamline operations. This includes upgrading software systems and providing staff with ongoing training opportunities. As the City grows and evolves, the Finance Department remains focused on accountability, transparency, and service to the residents of Carlsbad.
Sincerely,
MelissaSalcido Director of Finance
Sun. June 1st:
JUNE EVENTS AND DATES
For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.
Thurs. June 5th Continued:
Yucca Blossom Trade Day
Mon. June 2nd:
Inspired by Science Camp 25'
Tues. June 3rd:
Inspired by Science Camp 25'
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: No
Gloom, Just Loom - A Native Beading Class
Carlsbad Soil & Water Conservation Special
Program at Carlsbad Public Library
Carlsbad Public Library Game Time
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s
Anonymous
Wed. June 4th:
Inspired by Science Camp 25'
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: No
Gloom, Just Loom - A Native Beading Class
Library Program at the Beach Gazebo
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
“Storks” - FREE Summer Kids Series
Thurs. June 5th:
Inspired by Science Camp 25'
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library Story Time
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: No
Gloom, Just Loom - A Native Beading Class
Inspired by Science STEM at Carlsbad
Public Library
“Paddington in Peru” - Halagueno Arts Park
Outdoor Movie
Fri. June 6th:
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: No
Gloom, Just Loom - A Native Beading Class
Carlsbad Public Library Teens After Hours
Bad Art Night
CASA Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening
Weekend for Project Playhouse
Grace & Power 2025 “Ready-Set-Go”
Women’s Conference
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain
Brewing Company
Sat. June 7th:
Carlsbad Public Library STEM Club
Hammer Painting Family Craft Day
Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce Cars On
The Pecos (Green Chile Cheeseburger
Winner Announced)
Mon. June 9th:
Creating a Mini Piñata
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Tues. June 10th:
Southwest Dairy Farmers Mobile Dairy
Classroom at Carlsbad Public Library
Carlsbad Public Library Craft Time
Creating a Mini Piñata
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
Eddy County Shooting Range Grand Opening
Wed. June 11th:
Library Program at the Beach Gazebo
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Creating a Mini Piñata
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
“The Bad Guys” - FREE Summer Kids Series
Thurs. June 12th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library Story Time
Carlsbad Public Library Tween Time
Thurs. June 12th Continued:
Creating a Mini Piñata
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Poetry Workshop 1 w/ Dr. Fry at Carlsbad
Public Library
Homeschool Information Night
Fri. June 13th:
Story Time at the Carlsbad Gem & Mineral Society rock show
SENMC Gardening event
Creating a Mini Piñata
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain
Brewing Company
Keith Burnstein at Yellow Brix Restaurant
CavernFest 2025
Sat. June 14th:
4 Person Golf Scramble, Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad
Troy Young Park - Juneteenth Celebration
Caffeine & Cultivate: seed and sprouts swap
Story time at the Carlsbad Gem & Mineral
Society rock show
CavernFest 2025
Mon. June 16th:
Creative Canvas
Mon. June 16th Continued:
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Tues. June 17th:
Kids Camp at Alta Vista
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Carlsbad Public Library Game Time
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s
Anonymous
Creative Canvas
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Wed. June 18th:
Kids Camp at Alta Vista
Library Program at the Beach Gazebo
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Creative Canvas
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
“The Wild Robot” - FREE Summer Kids Series
Brews & Books at Mitlon’s Brewing
Thurs. June 19th:
Juneteenth - City of Carlsbad CLOSED
Kids Camp at Alta Vista
Creative Canvas
www cityofcarlsbadnm com
Thurs. June 19th Continued:
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Rocky Mountain Puppets at Walter Gerrells
Performing Arts Center
Fri. June 20th:
Story Time with the Carlsbad Fire Department
Holocaust Survivor at Carlsbad Public Library
Carlsbad Public Library Teen Time
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain
Brewing Company
Y2K Party at Golf Society
Sat. June 21st:
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
Kayak the Pecos
ECSP/DSBR 2025 Barrel Races & Pole
Bending - Series #4
Summer Night Market
36th Annual Ducky Affair
Y2K Party at Golf Society
Mon. June 23rd:
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Mon. June 23rd:
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: Abstract
Expressions - A Week of Creative
Exploration
Tues. June 24th:
Bureau of Land Management Outreach Visit
Public Library Craft Time
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: Abstract
Expressions - A Week of Creative
Exploration
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Trivia Night at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. June 25th:
Library Program at the Beach Gazebo
Carlsbad Public Library LEGO Time
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: Abstract
Expressions - A Week of Creative
Exploration
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Thurs. June 26th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library Story Time
Carlsbad Public Library Tween Time
Thurs. June 26th Continued:
Fiction writing workshop 1 with Zane
Biebelle at Carlsbad Public Library
Navajo Code Talkers
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: Abstract
Expressions - A Week of Creative
Exploration
GM Cho's Korean Martial Arts Summer Camp
Fri. June 27th:
Story Time at the Living Desert Zoo
Magic in the Library
Halagueno Arts Park Outdoor Movie
Carlsbad Museum Art Academy: Abstract
Expressions - A Week of Creative
Exploration
Karaoke/Open Mic at Guadalupe Mountain
Brewing Company
Sat. June 28th:
Carlsbad Farmers & Makers Market
UV Mineral show with Desert Minerals
Champion Challenge Open 4D Jackpot
Barrel Races & Pole Bending
Saturday Night Jams W/ Jamie O at Yellowbrix Restaurant
RELEASE – NOTICE OF CONSTRUCTION
J&H Services Inc. will begin sewer work along West Derrick Road between Production Lane and US 62/180 in Carlsbad, New Mexico, on April 21, 2025, and last approximately two months. To aid in the construction and increase safety during the work, W Derrick Road will be closed for westbound traffic with a detour. The only access will be for local businesses on Derrick.
Traffic control devices will be installed in this area. The general public is asked to remain clear of the construction area, and drivers who commute on this portion of the City are asked to please drive slowly and follow any detour signs in the area. Your Cooperation and observance of all construction signs will be greatly appreciated to help ensure the safety of the public and the construction crews.
The City of Carlsbad and J&H Services Inc. are committed to the safety of the traveling public and would like to thank you for your patience and assistance.
If you have any questions regarding this project, please contact:
J&H Services Inc: 505-896-9428 City of Carlsbad: 575-885-6313
LAKE CARLSBAD GOLF COURSE
We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to improve the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course so that it is enjoyable for everyone.
Here’s the latest timeline:
The Driving Range is OPEN.
The 18-Hole Championship Course is OPEN.
The Par 3 course is CLOSED.
In the meantime, the miniature golf course remains open and ready for play. We encourage golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy this option while renovations are underway.
Thank you for your continued support as we enhance one of Carlsbad’s favorite recreational amenities. Stay tuned for further updates! For any questions, please call Lake Carlsbad Golf Course at (575) 885-5444.
HOLIDAY CLOSURES
JUNETEENTH:
THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2025
Independence Day: Friday, July 4, 2025
Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025
Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 27, 2025
Day after Thanksgiving: Friday, November 28, 2025
Christmas Eve: Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25, 2025
New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1, 2026
CITY COUNCIL
Richard Lopez, Mayor mayor.office@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 1
Edward Rodriguez | etrodriguez@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Lisa Anaya-Flores | laflores@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 2
JJ Chavez | jochavez@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Jeff Forrest | jjforrest@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 3
Karla Hamel Niemeier | kjniemeier@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Mary Garwood | msgarwood@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ward 4
Anthony Foreman | arforeman@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Mark Walterscheid | mewalterscheid@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
CITY ADMINISTRATION
Wendy Austin, City Administrator wdaustin@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Ken Ahrens, Deputy City Administrator ksahrens@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
