As we round the corner into the holiday season, I find myself filled with anticipation for the wonderful weeks ahead. This time of year has always held a special place in my heart, and I know many of you feel the same way. There’s something magical about Ruidoso during the holidays – the crisp mountain air, the twinkling lights reflecting off our beautiful pines, and the warmth of our community coming together in celebration.
This holiday season also brings with it a wonderful opportunity to welcome visitors to our village. Whether they’re returning guests who’ve made Ruidoso their holiday tradition or first-time visitors discovering our mountain paradise, we’re ready to show them the very best of what our community has to offer. Tourism is the lifeblood of our local economy, and the holiday season is one of our most important times of the year. I encourage all of us to extend our signature Ruidoso hospitality to everyone who comes through our village.
Even as we look forward to celebrating the season, important work continues throughout our village. Recovery and mitigation projects are taking place across the community, and this essential work will continue over the coming months. These efforts are critical to our long-term resilience and security, and we remain committed to moving forward with determination and purpose. Even in the aftermath of the fires, floods, and ongoing recovery efforts, there is still so much to be grateful for – our resilient spirit, our caring community, and the strength we’ve found in one another.
I want to recognize two individuals here at the Village that many of you know. First, I want to congratulate Village Manager Ron Sena on being named City Manager of the Year by the New Mexico Municipal League (NMML). This prestigious honor recognizes Ron’s exceptional leadership and dedication to municipal management across New Mexico. I am deeply grateful for Ron’s unwavering commitment to the Village of Ruidoso, especially during our most challenging times. His willingness to do whatever it takes to help our community recover and thrive has been nothing short of extraordinary. Ron’s steady leadership, tireless work ethic, and genuine care for our residents and employees exemplify the very best in public service.
Next, I want to take a moment to recognize someone whose contributions to this community cannot be overstated. Adam Sanchez, our Public Works Director, recently retired after 25 years of dedicated service to the Village of Ruidoso. Adam’s steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to this community are appreciated beyond words, and he will be greatly missed. He was always available – truly 24/7 – and his department was always ready to take on whatever task was at hand, no matter how challenging. Adam, on behalf of the entire village, thank you for your years of service and sacrifice. We wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement.
Remember to tune-in to Mondays with the Mayor every Monday morning on KRUI - The Mountain 1490 AM/99.1 FM from 8:00-10:00 AM. We always talk about a lot of great information, and we welcome any questions you may have.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
October 14, 2025, Village Council Meeting Highlights:
» Approval of Task Order RFP #2024-004P-07 with Cobb, Fendley & Associates, Inc. for Completion of a Storm Drainage Master Plan.
» Approval of Agreement with Garrison Tree Services for Fire Mitigation, Forest Health, and Watershed Enhancement at Grindstone Lake.
» Adoption of Ordinance 2025-04 An Ordinance Amending the Village of Ruidoso Municipal Code of Ordinances Section 54-149 Architectural Design Standards.
» Presentation of Retirement Plaque to Adam Sanchez, Public Works Director, for his Service to the Village of Ruidoso from October 2000 through October 2025.
» Presentation of Employees and Department of the Quarter.
» Public Safety – Jimmy Hernandez (Patrol Officer)
» Community Services – Dontrell Sims (Parks Maintenance Technician II)
» Public Works – Willie Herrera (Water Distribution Supervisor)
Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers at Village Hall.
A NOTE FROM KINETIC
A New Future-Proof Network for Ruidoso
At the end of September, the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce representatives, New Mexico state officials, and local Kinetic team members gathered to commemorate the completion of Kinetic’s brand-new, fiber-optic network in Ruidoso.
The day marked an exciting milestone and a new chapter of connectivity for Ruidoso, which is officially considered a Kinetic ‘Gig-Ready’ community. This means more than 75% of the town now has access to Kinetic’s Next Generation Gigabit Internet. In fact, 8,000 homes and businesses across Ruidoso now have state-of-the-art internet to better support their needs for many years to come.
But what does being ‘Gig-Ready’ really mean? The benefits go way beyond just faster internet speeds. Whether you’re working from home, running a business, accessing telehealth services and online learning, or just streaming your favorite shows, Kinetic Fiber is designed to empower every resident and set Ruidoso up for long-term economic success.
Residents who are interested in fiber service are encouraged to call Kinetic toll-free at 1-800-347-1991 or visit www.gokinetic.com.
Pictured from left to right: Greg Cory, Gary Jackson, Darren Hooker, Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, Joe Eby
HUMAN RESOURCES
Employees/Department of the Quarter
Gina Corliss (Administration)
Gina’s exceptional organizational skills and dedication were instrumental in the success of the recent New Mexico Municipal League Conference. She spearheaded the planning efforts for this major event, which drew strong attendance and received outstanding feedback from participants. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence ensured that Ruidoso showcased its finest to municipal leaders from across the state. This recognition reflects Gina’s consistent professionalism and the vital role she plays in supporting Village operations.
Dontrell Sims (Community Services)
Dontrell consistently demonstrates an outstanding work ethic and a can-do attitude that sets him apart. His willingness to tackle whatever needs to be done—whether it’s a routine task or an unexpected challenge—makes him an invaluable member of the team. Dontrell approaches each workday with genuine enthusiasm, and his positive energy is contagious among his colleagues.
Willie Herrera (Public Works)
Willie exemplifies dedication and positivity in everything he does, approaching each day with a smile and a can-do attitude that uplifts the entire team. Rain or shine, Willie consistently delivers outstanding work while demonstrating what it means to be a true team player. His reliable presence and unwavering commitment to serving our community make him an invaluable member of the Public Works Department.
Jimmy Hernandez (Public Safety)
Officer Jimmy Hernandez of the Ruidoso Police Department as Employee of the Quarter for Public Safety. Officer Hernandez has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to keeping the citizens of the Village safe and has played a vital role in our public safety operations and to the safety and well-being of Ruidoso residents. His dedication to protecting this community exemplifies the highest standards of service.
Ruidoso Public Library (Department of the Quarter)
The Ruidoso Public Library team has distinguished itself through innovative and creative programming that engages residents of all ages and interests. From educational workshops to cultural events, they continually find new ways to connect with the community and foster a love of learning and discovery. Whether you’re a longtime patron or a first-time visitor, young or old, the library staff greets everyone with warmth and enthusiasm, creating an inclusive environment where all feel valued and supported. The library is a place where knowledge, creativity, and connection flourish.
RUIDOSO FIRE DEPARTMENT
Winter Fireplace Safety
As temperatures drop and winter sets in, many people turn to fireplaces and other heating methods to keep warm. At the same time, waste disposal — especially around holidays — increases, which can lead to an uptick in dumpster fires. While cozy fires can be comforting, they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Here’s what to know to prevent winter fires at home and in the community:
Fireplace Safety Tips
A fireplace can be a safe and efficient way to heat a home — if used correctly. Every year, thousands of house fires are caused by improper use or maintenance of fireplaces and chimneys.
Do:
1. Have chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney sweep. Creosote buildup is a major cause of chimney fires.
2. Use only seasoned hardwood (dry for at least 6 months). Wet or soft woods produce more creosote and smoke.
3. Keep a screen or glass door in front of the fireplace to prevent embers from escaping.
4. Clear the area around the fireplace of flammable items like furniture, curtains, and decorations.
5. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the house and check the batteries monthly.
6. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.
Don’t:
1. Don’t burn trash, wrapping paper, or cardboard in the fireplace — they can release toxic fumes or cause flash fires.
2. Don’t leave a fire unattended, especially overnight or when the house is vacant.
3. Don’t use gasoline or other accelerants to start or revive a fire.
4. Don’t overload the fireplace with too much wood.
What to Do If a Fire Breaks Out
1. Call 911 immediately – even if the fire seems small.
2. For a fireplace fire that spreads to a chimney or room, evacuate and close doors to slow the spread.
Stay warm. Stay alert. Stay safe.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Ready for Winter – Snow & Ice Response Plan
As colder weather returns to the Sacramento Mountains, the Village of Ruidoso is ready to keep roads, sidewalks, and public spaces safe this winter. The Village’s Snow and Ice Removal Plan is now in place to guide how crews respond when snow begins to fall — ensuring that residents, visitors, and essential services can keep moving safely.
The plan details how Village crews, led by the Public Works Department, will respond to winter weather events. Collaborating closely with the Ruidoso Police and Fire Departments, Emergency Management, and Ruidoso Area Dispatch, snow response begins as soon as winter weather affects travel conditions.
When snow is in the forecast:
1. The Village of Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management will start coordinating VOR departments for snow and ice removal and provide updated forecasts to lead departments.
2. The Ruidoso Police Department will alert dispatch when roads become hazardous.
3. Ruidoso Area Dispatch will then notify the Public Works department, and crews will mobilize and start clearing roads.
4. The Public Information Officers provide updates to residents through official VOR channels.
Priority Routes:
Snowplows work along priority routes to ensure critical areas are cleared first:
» Priority #1: State highways (Sudderth and Mechem), major arterial roads, and emergency/ Ruidoso Municipal Schools bus access routes
» Priority #2: Major arterial road extensions
» Priority #3: Residential streets and Village-owned parking areas.
Crews coordinate with the New Mexico Department of Transportation for state highway maintenance and the Ruidoso Municipal Schools to support school bus operations.
Tools, Equipment, and Teamwork:
The Village has dump trucks, pickups with plows and salters, graders, snow blowers, and support vehicles, with over 200 tons of salt and ice-melt materials on hand—and more ready to deploy as needed. During major storms, Public Works crews may work in rotating day and night shifts to keep roads clear and safe.
Stay Informed:
During major winter storms, the Village may activate the Emergency Alert System to inform the public of emergency or life-threatening situations.
» Follow official village social media channels for updates.
» Allow extra travel time and avoid unnecessary driving during heavy snowfall.
» Keep vehicles off the main roads whenever possible to help plow operations.
Stay safe and stay prepared!
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
With the arrival of autumn, we have many things to look forward to, including a season of Thanksgiving. And here at the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce, we are very thankful for the Ruidoso Valley Greeters!
Our Greeters are very active in the community, and one of the things we are most thankful for is that the Ruidoso Valley Greeters will once again be hosting the Christmas Jubilee! Taking place November 14 - 16 at the Ruidoso Convention Center, the Christmas Jubilee is a much-loved annual event here in Ruidoso. They will have over 70 vendors, making it possible to get all your Christmas shopping done at once, and maybe find a little something for yourself, too!
The Ruidoso Valley Greeters are the philanthropic arm of the Chamber, and all the proceeds from the Jubilee are donated back to the community. In the 35 years since the very first Jubilee, the Greeters have put almost half a million dollars back in the community by pledging money to our local charities. Some of the charities that have received pledges from the Greeters include the Humane Society of Lincoln County, Lincoln County Food Bank, Food 4 Kids Backpack Program, COPE, the Nest, and the High Mountain Youth Project. The list is too long to name all the charities, but these are just a few. We appreciate your support!
The Chamber just finished a wonderful AspenFest Parade and Party! The parade winners are: 1st Place: Canyon Hideaway’s entry titled “Oak and the Little Leaf Girl, Whimsical Forest Fairies.” 2nd Place: Inn of the Mountain Gods’ entry titled “50 Years of Storytelling” that featured a float honoring the journey from their humble beginnings to the vibrant, world-class resort they are today.
Best Decorated Vehicle: Cataleya Barcus, the newly crowned princess of the Mescalero Apache Elementary School.
The Festival of Lights Parade will be on Saturday, December 6, at 5:30 PM, and the theme will be “Muppets Christmas.” Let your imagination run wild, and let’s see some great floats for the Festival of Lights Parade!
1st Place 2nd Place
Decorated Vehicle
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From the Desk of Superintendent Becca Ferguson
Ruidoso Municipal Schools recently hosted a well-attended community meeting at Sierra Vista Primary School, in which participants, including students, parents, staff, local and county officials, ENMU–Ruidoso representatives, hospital staff, business owners, and school board members, came together to discuss the future of education for students of RMSD.
The meeting began with a presentation of the State of the District, providing an in-depth look at the district’s academic progress, strategic goals, and student-focused initiatives. Highlights included a review of RMSD’s multi-year growth in reading and math, RMSD graduation rate exceeding state averages, and student survey results showing strong engagement, motivation, and a sense of belonging. Also discussed was the RMSD School Board’s ongoing commitment to Student Outcomes Focused Governance and the Great on Their Behalf framework, ensuring that all decisions remain aligned with improving student outcomes and supporting staff effectiveness.
Following the presentation, participants engaged in small-group discussions around four reflection questions:
» Clarity & Understanding
» Connection & Curiosity
» Gaps & Needs
» Vision & Partnership
Community members voiced appreciation for RMSD’s data transparency, accountability structures, and commitment to continuous improvement. Many cited growth in student achievement, the district’s emphasis on goal-setting and progress monitoring, and improved school culture as clear signs of positive direction. Participants particularly praised elementary reading success and middle school engagement, noting the district’s use of student data and formative assessments to guide instruction. Feedback also emphasized areas where the district can continue to grow.
Participants encouraged RMSD to strengthen mathematics proficiency and SAT readiness, increase handson and real-world learning opportunities, and enhance career and technical pathways through partnerships with ENMU–Ruidoso and local employers. Concerns about staff recruitment, student mental health, and facility conditions, including HVAC and water systems, were also voiced as ongoing challenges requiring attention. Additionally, the availability of teacher housing was a concern for recruiting and retaining staff.
Community members expressed strong support for RMSD’s focus on collaboration and communication. Many appreciated the district’s openness to feedback, noting that the meeting “gave everyone a voice.” Suggestions included more accessible public data dashboards, regular progress updates, and continued family engagement opportunities such as student recognition events and parent forums.
The meeting concluded with a shared vision for the future to ensure that every Ruidoso student graduates prepared for college, career, and life by developing strong literacy and math skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deep sense of belonging within their school community
Ruidoso Municipal Schools extends sincere appreciation to all participants for their time, ideas, and partnership. The district is committed to using this feedback to refine strategies, strengthen instruction, and ensure that every student in RMSD continues to grow, achieve, and thrive.
Winter EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for winter! Please visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for additional events and details.
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUNDAY:
• Sunday Night Acoustics/Hootenanny, Lost Hiker Brewing Company
WEDNESDAY:
• Wet Your Whistle Wednesday, Lost Hiker Brewing Co.
THURSDAY:
• Veterans Coffee & Company, 615 Sudderth Dr
• Open Mic Night, Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap
• Club 49 Comedy, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Phil Hamilton “Gringo Loco”, Casa Blanca Cantina
• Thirstday Night Trivia, Lost Hiker Brewing Company
THURSDAY - SATURDAY:
• Brendan Dawes, Quarters Bar & Grill
NOVEMBER 1:
• 11th Annual Dia de los Muertos, Historic Lincoln
• Rocky Horror Picture Show, Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
NOVEMBER 1 - 2:
• A Christmas Affair, Ruidoso Convention Center
NOVEMBER 2:
• Day of the Dead Sugar Skull Workshop, Lost Hiker Brewing Company
NOVEMBER 5:
• Moonlight Hike, White Sands National Park (PENDING REOPENING)
NOVEMBER 8:
• Sierra Club Guided Hike - Eagle Creek Trail, Alto Lake Recreation Area
• Fight Night - Round 3, Inn of the Mountain Gods
NOVEMBER 11:
• Ruidoso Writers’ Group, Ruidoso Public Library
NOVEMBER 11 - 12:
• Chicago the Musical, Spencer Theater
NOVEMBER 13:
• Time Turner Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library
NOVEMBER 14 - 16:
• Ruidoso Christmas Jubilee, Ruidoso Convention Center
NOVEMBER 15:
• Ice ‘n Ale Trail, Jacks Backstage
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM NOVEMBER 20:
• PIECE Coalition Monthly Meeting, 2002 Sudderth Dr
NOVEMBER 23:
• Pumpkin Patch, Enchanted Vine Barn
NOVEMBER 28:
• Los Tigres del Norte, Inn of the Mountain Gods
NOVEMBER 29:
• Ruidoso Turkey Trot, White Mountain Recreation Complex
• Ice Skating Opening Day, Wingfield Park
NOVEMBER 29 - 30:
• Opening Weekend at Ski Apache (CONDITIONS PERMITTING)
NOVEMBER 30:
• Christmas Tree Lighting, Inn of the Mountain Gods
NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 31:
• Path of Lights, Inn of the Mountain Gods
DECEMBER 4:
• Christmas in the Park, Wingfield Park
DECEMBER 6:
• Festival of Lights, Midtown Ruidoso; Luke Bryan, Inn of the Mountain Gods
DECEMBER 10:
• RHS Choir Christmas Music, Ruidoso Public Library
DECEMBER 11:
• Time Turner Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library
DECEMBER 17:
• Special Santa Storytime, Ruidoso Public Library
DECEMBER 20 - 21:
• The Nutcracker, Spencer Theater
DECEMBER 31:
• NYE - Rocking Through the Ages, Inn of the Mountain Gods
Ruidoso AARP Tax-Aide has been assisting individuals in the area (Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, Alto, Capitan, Carrizozo, Glencoe, Hondo, Lincoln, Nogal, Picacho, Roswell, San Patricio, Tinnie, and the Mescalero Nation) for the past 30 years. People receive free preparation of their federal and state taxes. A large portion of them are lowincome and/or retired taxpayers and are eligible for state-related credits that provide them with an additional $50-$350. They cannot afford the cost (typically $200-$300) of having a professional tax preparer perform this function. In addition, this cost would often be more than the refunds they would receive.
Unfortunately, the number of people receiving help each year has been decreasing due to a lack of new volunteers. With just four preparers last year, we were able to assist 348 people, but we had to turn away hundreds more. With just two preparers on board for the upcoming year, only around one hundred people will be able to receive assistance. Please consider helping this community by volunteering this tax season!
Chromebooks are provided and volunteers are trained on the tax preparation process. Preparers must be comfortable using a laptop computer. Volunteers do not get involved in extremely difficult returns. Many of the returns are for people with only Social Security income. In addition, the remaining volunteers are very capable of providing assistance. Last year, the service was offered two days each week (Thursday/Friday), from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM. There is no commitment to both days, and even one day would be helpful. To obtain more information on how you can volunteer, call 575-694-2643 or email TaxAideRuidoso@outlook.com.
WORKFORCE HOUSING UPDATE
Elk Meadows Apartment Complex on Schedule
Construction is well underway and on-schedule at Elk Meadows Apartments, a 72-unit community taking shape just north of the PNM facility on Mechem Drive. When complete, the development will provide 126 bedrooms for local workers and families across two residential buildings and a community center offering supportive programs through Region 9 Education Cooperative and Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU).
Recent aerial photographs show steady progress on the site. Most underground infrastructure is complete, and Enriched Communities, LLC has poured the concrete slabs, with building framing now in progress.
Completion is expected in fall 2026, with leasing anticipated to begin in early summer 2026. Elk Meadows will deliver high-quality, affordable housing that strengthens the Ruidoso community.
For updates and more information, visit ElkMeadowsApartments.com.
DEPARTMENTS & PHONE NUMBERS
Airport 575-336-8111
Convention Center 575-258-5445
Judicial 575-257-9055
Library 575-258-3704
Parks & Recreation 575-257-5030
Police 575-258-7365
Fire 575-257-3473
Solid Waste 575-257-1502
Street Works 575-257-6023
Forestry 575-257-5544
Planning & Zoning 575-258-6999
Regional Waste Water Treatment Plant (RWWTP) 575-378-8417
Senior Center 575-257-4565
Water Distribution and Sewer
Collections 575-257-2386
Water Production 575-257-5525
Water Rights/Watershed (RJU) 575-258-6913
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
From the Desk of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth
Our Ruidoso Midtown welcomed fall with the wonderful AspenFest Parade sponsored by the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce. Midtown was packed with locals and surrounding community visitors enjoying the many floats, local heroes, and our friends from Mescalero. AspenFest at Wingfield Park had an incredible turnout on a day of perfect weather.
Downshift had their popular Oktoberfest event, bringing locals and visitors to Midtown. There was great Bavarian cuisine, German Blasmusik, local music, and a diverse group of vendors from around New Mexico. New winners of the Stein Hoist (Masskrugstemmen) emerged - flexing the power of their arms, and chicken dancers of all ages danced their tail feathers off!
We also had a visit from the mighty Dale Watson and his Lone Stars. This brought hundreds of visitors from around our neighboring counties (and even nearby states) to enjoy Midtown before the show. With Christmas just around the corner, details for the Ruidoso Midtown Association’s Christmas Mixer are nearly set! We will have a one-and-done white elephant gift exchange as part of the holiday fun!
For year-round safety, be sure to sign up for weather alerts and Village notifications at CallMeRuidoso.com. These updates are helpful for all seasons - winter is coming!
AN ANNUAL FUN RUN-WALK ON THE LINKS TRAIL TO SUPPORT THE LINCOLN COUNTY FOOD BANK 5K TURKEY TROT 5K TURKEY TROT
