TABLE OF CONTENTS
WELCOME!
The first month of 2025 has flown by, and Carlsbad is already buzzing with activity! Mayor Rick Lopez has been busy traveling and working on exciting projects, like the new driving range, which will soon enhance our local recreation options. These initiatives, along with many others, reflect our city’s continued focus on growth and improvement.
This month’s newsletter is packed with highlights, including a chance to meet our city hall intern, learn about some of our amazing employees in the spotlight section, and see the results of fun polls taken by our staff. And, of course, we’ve included adorable photos of pets to brighten your day. There’s so much to celebrate and share as we dive into another exciting year in Carlsbad!
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@CityofCarlsbadNMTourism
YouTube: @explorecarlsbadnm2316
Past Event Photos
Did you get snapped at our latest events? Check check our social media to see if you were snapped!
Dear Neighbors & Friends:
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
This past month has been a whirlwind of activity as we continue to work toward advancing Carlsbad’s growth, partnerships, and future opportunities. I recently had the privilege of traveling to Santa Fe to participate in the legislative session. This trip allowed me to engage with state leaders and advocate for the priorities that are so important to our community.
One of the highlights of my time in Santa Fe was attending the Eddy County Legislative Reception. This event was a testament to our strong partnerships throughout our region. Together with representatives from Eddy County, we showcased the incredible progress and unity that define our area. I am always proud to see the determination and teamwork that our local leaders bring to the table. Additionally, I attended the WIPP Legislative Breakfast, which highlighted the longstanding partnership between Carlsbad and the Department of Energy. WIPP has been a cornerstone of our community, not only as a source of jobs and economic growth but also as a leader in environmental stewardship. Events like this remind us how vital it is to recognize the efforts of all those who work tirelessly to make our community stronger.
Later in the month, I traveled to Dallas to attend the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) conference. I was proud to join the Carlsbad Department of Development in representing our city at this important event. Together, we worked to promote Carlsbad as a prime location for business investment.
This was an exciting opportunity to network with business leaders, share Carlsbad’s unique strengths, and explore opportunities to bring new businesses and services to our community. Efforts like these are key to diversifying our economy, creating more jobs, and expanding retail options for our residents. I am optimistic that the connections we made in Dallas will open new doors for economic development and growth in our city.
Whether it’s expanding retail options, creating more jobs, or strengthening our infrastructure, these efforts are designed to ensure Carlsbad remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come. I am optimistic that the connections we made in Dallas will open new doors for economic development and growth in our city.
While these trips are important for advancing our city’s goals, I want to emphasize that they are just one part of our collective effort. I continue to be inspired by the hard work and dedication of our residents, local businesses, and city staff. Together, we are making strides to improve everyone's quality of life in Carlsbad. Whether it’s through advocating for funding, creating new partnerships, or pursuing innovative projects, our focus remains on building a stronger, more resilient community.
As we look ahead, I encourage you to stay engaged and share your thoughts and ideas. Your input is invaluable, and together, we can continue to make Carlsbad a place we are all proud to call home. Thank you for your support and commitment to our city.
Sincerely,
CarlsbadMayorRickLopez
Petsof the Month
Meet the adorable pets of our City of Carlsbad employees!
Name: Thor Dr. Pepper Laney
Pawrent: Zane Laney
He loves to ‘Parkour’ off of everything, including his humans!
Name: Dusty
Pawrent: Kristina Torres
Dusty’s favorite animal is a hedgehog!
Name: Yeti (7)
Pawrent: Trysha Ortiz
She actually doesn't answer to Yeti, but will acknowledge you when you call her Ma'am.
Name: Zara
Pawrent: Hailey Digby
She loves to go down the slides at the parks.
Name: Baue
Pawrent: Stephan Brown
Name: Lily (15)
Pawrent: Dean Richardson
Baue can open all the doors in the house and can do several tricks including sit, lay down, heil and will wait for his food.
She loves napping and pining for every meal in the home. She hates baths (although it doesn’t seem like it).
Name: Molly Martinez
Thinks she is human and can do whatever
Name: Tyr
Pawrents: Christian & Val Bannister
Tyr takes up as much space as his humans on the bed and will play fetch till he can’t breathe.
She loves to get her nails painted. She will pick out a toy from her toy box and
Name: Jake
Pawrent: Angela Hernandez
Jake likes to climb trees and chase squirrels.
CITY HALL INTERN SPOTLIGHT
Hi, everyone! My name is Aniah Sepulveda, and I’m a senior at Carlsbad High School. I am also proud to serve as the CHS Business Professionals of America (BPA) President and currently have the incredible opportunity to intern at City Hall in the Mayor’s Office.
I absolutely love being an intern at City Hall! Even though I’m still in high school, I feel so fortunate to dive into the world of local government and experience it all firsthand. Every day brings something new and exciting, whether it’s sitting in on meetings, helping out with community events, or learning about the decision-making processes that shape our city.
One of the most inspiring parts of this internship has been meeting so many amazing people—dedicated public servants and passionate community leaders who work tirelessly to make Carlsbad a better place. It’s incredible to see the collaboration and heart that go into serving our community.
This experience has truly opened my eyes to the many possibilities in public service. I’ve gained valuable knowledge, made meaningful connections, and grown so much as a person. I’m more excited than ever about my future and the potential to continue making a difference.
Thank you to the Mayor’s Office and everyone at City Hall for giving me this opportunity. I can’t wait to see what else is in store!
Sincerely,
AniahSepulveda City Hall Intern/ CHS BPA President
Aniah at the 2024 Fall Leadrship Ralley in Roswell, New Mexico.
at the “CTSO Day at the Roundhouse” in Santa Fe, New Mexico (1/14/2025).
Aniah
Aniah at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, New Mexico (2024).
FEBRUARY EMPLOYEE POLLS
Which classic Valentine’s Day treat do you prefer?
How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day?
Who do you think will win the 2025 NFL Superbowl?
What's the best part of the Superbowl?
What’s your go-to hot drink?
NationalPizzaDayisthismonth,what'syourgo-totopping?
What's the best tool to help you stay organized at work? What helps you
Exciting Updates at Lake Carlsbad Golf Course: New Driving Range ComingSoon!
Lake Carlsbad Golf Course is thrilled to announce the addition of a brand-new driving range, set to open on February 27 (pending completion of the irrigation project). This exciting development is inspired by the goal of enhancing the golf experience for families and attracting new players to the community.
The state-of-the-art driving range will feature eight hitting bays with comfortable seating, fourteen hitting mats, and new targets to enhance practice sessions. Guests can also enjoy two simulators offering fun activities like golf, baseball, hockey, carnival games, and more. To round out the experience, alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase, and multiple televisions will broadcast sporting events for everyone to enjoy.
This project, primarily funded by the Lodgers Tax, promises to provide something for everyone. Even non-golfers can join in the fun, thanks to the variety of simulator games. The addition is expected to grow the local golf community and create a welcoming space for families and friends to connect.
Stay tuned for updates as we count down to the opening of this fantastic new facility!
Sincerely,
KyleBoatman Golf General Manager
DinaNavarrette Director of Community Development
February is Heart Awareness Month: Know the Difference
CardiovascularDisease,HeartDisease,CoronaryHeartDisease
Cardiovascular disease, heart disease, coronary heart disease — what’s the difference?
Because these terms sound so similar, people use them interchangeably. This fact sheet will help you understand how these conditions differ.
Cardiovascular Disease The big umbrella
Cardiovascular disease is the term for all types of diseases that affect the heart or blood vessels, including coronary heart disease (clogged arteries), which can cause heart attacks, stroke, heart failure, and peripheral artery disease.
More than 800,000 people die of cardiovascular disease every year in the United States.
1 in 3 deaths
HeartDisease A type of cardiovascular disease
“Heart disease” is a catch-all phrase for a variety of conditions that affect the heart’s structure and function.
Keep in mind — all heart diseases are cardiovascular diseases, but not all cardiovascular diseases are heart disease.
The most common type of heart disease is coronary heart disease. In fact, when people talk about “heart disease” they often mean coronary heart disease.
CoronaryHeartDisease A type of heart disease
Coronary heart disease is often referred to simply as “heart disease,” although it’s not the only type of heart disease. Another term for it is coronary artery disease.
About 366,000 Americans die from coronary heart disease each year.
Coronary heart disease occurs when plaque (a combination of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood) builds up in your arteries. You may have heard this called clogged arteries or atherosclerosis.
The plaque reduces the amount of oxygen-rich blood getting to your heart, which can cause chest pain (also called angina). Plaque can also lead to blood clots, which block blood flow and are the most common cause of a heart attack.
What you can do to protect yourself from cardiovascular diseases?
There’s a lot you can do to protect your heart. • Ask your doctor about your blood pressure, cholesterol, and A1C.
• Reduce the sodium, and increase the fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
• Be physically active.
Nearly 650,000 Americans die from heart diseases each year.
About 11% of American adults (that’s more than 1 of every 9) have been diagnosed with heart disease.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Don’t smoke.
• Manage stress.
• Keep your diabetes under control.
FEBRUARY EVENTS & DATES
For more information regarding any of these events or others please visit the official City Events Calander.
Sat. February 1st:
Southern New Mexico Flag Football League Tournament
Inspired by Science STEM After Dark at the Carlsbad Museum (21+)
Tue. February 4th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s Anonymous
Wed. February 5th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
Annual Heart Healthy Luncheon at the Carousel House
SENMC Email Etiquette 101 Workshop
SENMC College Readiness Workshop
Thurs. February 6th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
SENMC Taller de Preparacion para la Universidad
Fri. February 7th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Jam Session at the North Mesa Senior Recreation Center
Fri. February 7th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Jam Session at the North Mesa Senior Recreation Center
Sat. February 8th:
Carlsbad Public Library Dungeons and Dragons
Carlsbad Public Library Love Your Library Event
Carlsbad Public Library Valentine Card Making Class
Carlsbad Museum Valentines Card Making Station
Build Some Love Family Craft Event at McCoy’s Building Supply
Carlsbad Roatary’s Pancake Day 2025
Valentines Cookie Decorating Class at Chelsea’s Cookies & Cakes
4th Annual Janell Whitlock Valentines Day Dinner Dance Party
Tue. February 11th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Coalition Teens in Action at the Carlsbad Public Library
SEMNC Building Your Financial Future Series
Tue. February 11th continued:
Valentine Pints and Paints at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. February 12th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
Fri. February 14th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Women for a Better Carlsbad Galentine’s
Luncheon
Sweetheart Dance at North Mesa Senior Center
Valentines Dance (Baile) at Alejandro Ruiz
Senior Center
American Legion’s Valentine’s Day Dance
Tue. February 18th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Carlsbad Public Library Stitcher’s Anonymous
Wed. February 19th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
Brews and Books at Milton’s Brewing
Thurs. February 20th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
For
Fri. February 21st:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Ruidoso Casino Trip
Sat. February 22nd:
Carlsbad Public Library Dungeons and Dragons
Mon. February 24th:
SENMC Paint Party
Tue. February 25th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
Coalition Teens in Action at the Carlsbad Public Library
The Booze Bombs at Milton’s Brewing
Wed. February 26th:
Carlsbad Public Library Preschool Storytime
Carlsbad Public Library Lego Time
Thurs. February 27th:
Carlsbad Public Library Baby Time
Carlsbad Public Library STEM Club
SENMC Mind CTRL Mental Health Seminars: Art for the Mind
SENMC Yoga Meditation Class
Fri. February 28th:
Carlsbad Public Library Toddler Time
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHTS
Angela Hernandez: Executive Assistant with a wealth of experience in legal work, claims handling, and office administration. Angela is a proud graduate of NMSU-Carlsbad, where she earned her Associate's Degree in 2020 while working full-time with the City. Her dedication and hard work exemplify her commitment to personal and professional growth.
Personal Interests and Fun Facts:
Angela recently completed a kickboxing class—so think twice before sneaking up on her! Known as a "plant whisperer," Angela has a magical touch when it comes to reviving even the sickest plants.
Her red chile cheese enchiladas are legendary and considered the best in town.
Angela is married to our talented master mechanic, Tony Hernandez, and they are proud parents of two children and grandparents to six beautiful grandchildren.
Winter Weather Strom Crew- Streets Department:
The employees of the Street Department are being recognized for their dedication and hard work during the recent snow and ice event. These employees worked tirelessly in freezing temperatures, late into Wednesday evening and early Thursday morning, to ensure the safety of our community on City roads and bridges.
Employees:
Mark Biscano (Foreman)
Gerald Anaya (Foreman)
Jimmy Broughton (Heavy Equipment Operator 2)
David Acevedo (Heavy Equipment Operator 1)
This team braved the cold to lay salt on icy roads, helping prevent accidents and ensuring safer travel for all residents. Their efforts demonstrate their commitment to keeping Carlsbad safe during challenging weather conditions.
We deeply appreciate the Street Department team for their hard work and dedication to our community's safety.
www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com
Important Notice for Carlsbad Cemetery Visitors
The City of Carlsbad is ensuring compliance with Cemetery Rules and Regulations to maintain a respectful and orderly resting place for our loved ones.
Please take note of the following:
The public has until April 7, 2025, to remove all items, decorations, or headstones that do not comply with the Cemetery Rules and Regulations.
Any items removed by the City will be stored for 30 days before being disposed of.
This applies ONLY to the Carlsbad Cemetery and does NOT include Santa Catarina Cemetery.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. If you have any questions or concerns, contact Diana Dorado at the Cemetery Office: 575-236-1075.
Lower Tansill Dam Park
Constructors, Inc. is scheduled to begin work for The City of Carlsbad at the Lower Tansill Dam Park. This project is scheduled to begin the week of January 23, 2025, and is scheduled to be complete by early summer. The construction work is approximately 6 months in length.
The roadway and fishing area on the South side of the dam which will include the lower dam portion road and fishing area will be closed to the public and through vehicles. The S. James St. Road to the Bataan Recreation Area will be open to the public. All sidewalks in the construction area will be closed.
The road will be blocked off from Park Access Rd. to the Bataan Recreation Area for the duration of this project.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation. For any questions, please call 575-885-8838.
Lake Carlsbad Golf Course
We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to improve the Lake Carlsbad Golf Course for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s the latest timeline:
The Driving Range is anticipated to reopen by the end of February 2025.
The first playable 9 holes of the golf course are expected to be ready by mid-April 2025.
In the meantime, the Par 3 course and the miniature golf course remain open and ready for play. We encourage golfers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy these options 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
Good Friday: Friday, April 18, 2025
Memorial Day: Monday, May 26, 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
Rick 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
KC Cass, Chief Operating Officer kccass@cityofcarlsbadnm.com
www.cityofcarlsbadnm.com
