Executive Summary

Dear Friends:

It is my honor to serve as City Manager for the City of Roswell and to lead a team of dedicated and talented employees, working to implement the vision and policy direction of the Mayor and City Council.

Looking back on calendar year 2019, much has been accomplished, as highlighted in this annual report. Without a doubt, the most significant events involved major projects that have been years in preparation and construction were completed in 2019. Early in the year, the renovation of the Convention Center reopened with a renewed interest of attracting events and conferences to the community. The much needed Recreation and Aquatics Center opened mid-year and will be enjoyed by the community for generations.

The City Council looked for additional ways to incorporate input into their decision making process. A Spring River Park and Zoo taskforce spent a major part of the year reviewing and considering departmental operations and ways to implement its master plan. The Roswell Air Center remains a major asset with relation to the City’s future economic growth. The City Council implemented the Airport Commission, a citizen advisory board to assist and provide direction of the asset.

Along with these operational and organizational efforts, the City consolidated its projects into one comprehensive list. This list will assist the City with focusing its attention and assure that adequate resources are provided for those things that move the City forward.

The City partnered with the Roswell/Chaves County Economic Development Council to complete a Retail Trade Study. On of the primary sections of this report identified opportunities for growth in various industries allowing the City and the RCCEDC to target complimentary business attraction. This study will remain important for the near future as we work to increase our economic development portfolio.

Organizationally, Mike Mathews achieved the role of Deputy City Manager. His tireless commitment to service for the Roswell community is to be commended. Mike is an example of the commitment we hope every employee has for the City. Finding quality professional employees to fill the ranks has remained challenging. The City implemented a robust internship program that provides internships for every department within the City.

Executive Summary

City Manager: Joe Neeb

On-going adjustments within the departmental structure of the Spring River Park and Zoo, Roswell Animal Services, 911 Joint Dispatch and Recreation have resulted in a more proactive approach for those services.

The City of Roswell is more than its parts and must be active in advancing the success of the region and the State. Many department heads are supported and have taken on roles of leadership within outside organizations, their disciplines and industry associations. Through service, Roswell benefits form this involvement. Personally, as the Roswell City Manager, I participated in Leadership Roswell, serve on the Board of Trustees for the Self Insured Pool, legislative committees of the New Mexico Municipal League and as the New Mexico City Manager Association President.

The City continued its efforts in community outreach and communication by hosting a multitude of citizen forums. Along with open dialogue sessions, the City provided topical forums to collaborate with its citizens on many important topics. Discussions were held on departments associated with Public Safety and Recreation along with a summit to discuss challenges and opportunities with Housing.

This year was not without sadness. In June 2019, a fireworks explosion severely injured 2 firefighters and resulted in the death of Fire Department Apparatus Operator, Jeff Stroble. This tragedy is a reminder that nothing can be taken for granted, we must be ever vigilant of the world around us and must strive to protect those who chose to protect the community. Jeff was a fighter and understood the risks associated with public safety. His story shows truly the commitment of sacrifice and dedication of service.

For these and many other reasons, we can look forward to 2020 with renewed optimism. There will be challenges of course, but Roswell will continue to prosper with the guidance of the City Council, the dedicated professional staff and the involvement of an informed and engaged community.

Respectfully,

Joseph W. Neeb, ICMA-CM, CEcD Roswell City Manager