Summer is just around the corner, and after enduring last summer’s devastating fires and floods, our resilient community is poised for a spectacular season ahead. I’m thrilled that the beloved Ruidoso Downs Race Track will be reopening on Memorial Day Weekend, bringing back this cherished tradition alongside numerous exciting summer events planned throughout our village. I hope you make plans to attend the races on opening weekend and show your support for all that they have done to ensure that there will be racing on the mountain again this year!
We have had a couple of big announcements in the past few weeks from IRONMAN and XTERRA. Both entities have announced that they are bringing multiple year events to Ruidoso beginning with the XTERRA Gold Series event in August 2025. After the first event, Ruidoso will host the XTERRA World Championships in 2026, 2027, and 2028. The inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 event will take place in July 2026, and will be followed by events in 2027 and 2028. This is a tremendous honor for our mountain community and a testament to the natural beauty and challenging terrain that makes our area so special. We look forward to welcoming elite athletes and outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe to experience our trails, our hospitality, and the unique spirit of Ruidoso. These multi-year commitments from top tier brands will not only showcase our incredible outdoor recreation opportunities but will also bring significant economic benefits to our local businesses and residents to the tune of an estimated $12 Million per event. We’re ready to put Ruidoso on the world stage as a premier destination for outdoor adventure sports.
As you travel throughout the village, you’ll notice recovery efforts continuing in full force. The progress we’re making together is visible everywhere, and I remain deeply grateful for the resilience and determination our community has shown in rebuilding.
For those with questions about flood-prone areas, I encourage you to review the newly updated floodplain map now available on the Village website at Ruidoso-NM.gov. We’ve also compiled a comprehensive FAQ section to address common questions and concerns from residents.
Remember to tune-in to KRUI 99.1 FM or 1490 AM every Monday from 8:00 – 10:00 AM for Mondays with the Mayor to get the inside scoop on all things VOR.
Finally, our community has faced significant challenges in the past year, but together, we’re moving forward toward a brighter future. I look forward to seeing you all at our summer events as we celebrate the strength and spirit that make Ruidoso so special.
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
April 8, 2025, Village Council Meeting Highlights:
» Approval of Task Order RFP-2024-003P-BH-05 for Starlite Road Emergency Repair Work, Construction Phase Services with Bohannan Huston, Inc., in the Amount of $144,082.
» Approval of Agreement with Deckard Technologies Inc. for Short-Term Rental Software and Services in the Amount of $126,564.75.
» Approval of Adoption of Resolution 2025-09, a Resolution Adopting the Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) for the Ruidoso Community Center for Fiscal Year 2025-2026.
» Approval of the 100 Year Floodplain Map.
» Proclamation: Honoring the Long Life of Resident Emma Montes Richardson.
» Presentation of Employees and Department of the Quarter. Employees:
» Public Safety: Seth Carruth (Detective Sergeant)
» Community Services: Marisa Olvera (Youth Services Librarian)
» Public Works: Jaime Newsome (Water/Sewer Inspector) Department:
» Solid Waste
Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 @ 1:00 PM, Village Hall Council Chambers.
PUBLIC SAFETY
New Mexico Speed Limits Made Simple
As summer approaches and families and visitors begin to spend more time outdoors, please be courteous and cautious on the roads. Please adhere to these speed limits and look for posted signs to keep communities safe so everyone can enjoy the warmer weather.
Things to know:
» The default speed limit set by New Mexico law for residential and business districts is 30 MPH
» Some areas may show different limits based on traffic studies
» School zones slow to 15 MPH when children are arriving or leaving
» Always adjust speed to drive safely and avoid accidents
» Construction zones and certain safety areas may have special speed limits and double fines
Pictured from left to right: Greg Cory, Gary Jackson, Darren Hooker, Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, Joe Eby
LEVEL 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS LEVEL 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS
WWW.RUIDOSO-NM.GOV FOR MORE INFORMATION
No smoking outside No camp fires
No fireworks
No charcoal (gas & pellets OK)
No Chainsaws or Welding without a Permit
SPECIAL EVENTS & FILM OFFICE UPDATE
Strength, Rhythm, and Adventure in the Mountains
This summer, Ruidoso comes alive with a spirit of recovery, unity, and adventure. From the rugged trails to soulful tunes and powerful storytelling, come experience a season that honors where Ruidoso had been and celebrates where Ruidoso is going.
Under A Mountain Sky - Summer Concert Series
When: Fridays | Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Where: Wingfield Park, Ruidoso, NM
Ease into the evening with free live performances by premier Americana and country artists. Nestled in the heart of the village, Wingfield Park offers a relaxed space where families can gather, kids can play, and everyone can enjoy the music under the pavilion.
*The June 6, July 18, and August 8 concerts will be held at the Country Club Lot.
XTERRA Ruidoso – Full Distance Triathlon
Date: August 15-17, 2025
Location: Grindstone Lake
Step into the wild with the classic XTERRA full-distance triathlon! This high-altitude challenge features athletes chasing World Championship slots, battling elites, and seeking personal victory. XTERRA is more than a race - it’s an experience of endurance and heart in the mountains.
Docuseries: After the Ashes – The Story of Ruidoso’s Resilience
Status: In production
Release: TBA
Following the devastating fires and floods of 2024, this powerful docuseries tells the story of a community that refused to break. From the first sparks to the ongoing rebuilding efforts, After the Ashes captures the raw emotion, courage, and resilience of Ruidoso residents. These are stories of hope, strength, and rising from the ashes.
KEEP WILDLIFE WILD! KEEP WILDLIFE WILD!
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
READY, SET, GO! Be Prepared for Wildfires
Wildfire season is here, and in Ruidoso, preparation is key to keeping this community safe. The Ready, Set, GO! program is designed to help residents prepare for wildfires, act quickly when danger arises, and evacuate safely when necessary. Now is the time to get READY!
Ready
Ready –Prepare Now
Being READY means taking proactive steps before there is threat of a wildfire.
• Create a defensible space: Clear dry vegetation at least 30 feet around homes. Trim trees and keep gutters clear of debris.
• Harden your home: Use fire-resistant materials, cover vents with metal mesh, and keep flammable items away from structures.
• Have an emergency plan: Identify multiple evacuation routes, designate a meeting point for family members, and ensure emergency alerts can be received. Visit www.CallMeRuidoso.com
• Assemble a Go-Kit: Include essential documents, medications, clothes, food, water, and pet supplies. Visit www.ready.gov/kit
Set
Set –Be Alert
When a wildfire starts, stay informed and be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• Monitor local emergency notifications via the Village of Ruidoso’s emergency alert system, social media, website, and local news on KRUI.
• Ensure car has a full tank of gas and is parked facing out of the driveway.
• Gather emergency supplies, load vehicle, and be prepared to leave.
• Don’t be afraid to leave early. Don’t wait for an official evacuation order.
If an evacuation order is given, GO without hesitation. Safety is the priority.
• Follow emergency evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts, as roads may be closed or unsafe.
• Leave early to avoid being trapped by fire, smoke, or blocked roads.
• Check in with emergency shelters or family to confirm location.
The Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management is working hard to keep residents safe, but wildfire preparedness starts with each individual! Be informed, make a plan, build a kit, and get involved.
If a wildfire starts, BE READY!
WORKFORCE HOUSING UPDATE
Breaking Ground on Elk Meadows
Enriched Communities, a New Mexico developer, officially started working on Elk Meadows, a 72-unit apartment project located just north of the PNM facility on Mechem Drive. The project is designed for local workers and families, and is comprised of two buildings and a community building for supportive programs provided by Region IX Education Cooperative and ENMU-Ruidoso. These programs will include early learning and youth development workshops, health screenings, and other services for residents.
The project features modern, energy-efficient homes and consists of 27 one-bedroom units, 36 twobedroom units, and 9 three-bedroom units with great views of the golf course. After three years in the making, the project was awarded tax credits from state and federal funds to make it a reality. The developer anticipates completion in the Fall of 2026.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Stay Safe this Monsoon Season with Ruidoso’s New Flood Awareness Map
The Village of Ruidoso is creating an essential flood awareness map to help residents and visitors navigate safely during this monsoon season. This map will highlight areas within the Village that remain accessible during heavy rains and potential flooding.
Key features of the map include the identification of streets with low-water crossings and critical locations where drivers and pedestrians are urged to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Additionally, the map will pinpoint designated “dry areas” throughout the Village. These safe spots provide locations where residents and visitors can shelter and wait for waters at low crossings to recede.
To view the final floodplain map scan the QR code below.
Join the Ruidoso Police Department
Ready to advance your career and serve your community? The Ruidoso Police Department is seeking dedicated law enforcement professionals to join our team.
Competitive Pay: Up to $29.37/hr for lateral officers
Outstanding Benefits: Level 5 PERA retirement and 80/20 medical insurance
Extended Take-Home Vehicle Radius: Now 75 miles—serving Alamogordo, Roswell, and surrounding areas
Shift Differential Pay
Advanced Training & Career Development Opportunities
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER
From the Desk of The Chief Executive – Todd Oberheu
A key component of Lincoln County Medical Center (LCMC) is the LCMC Auxiliary, which engages in charitable activities, volunteer services, and fundraising efforts. Auxiliary members volunteer to enhance patient care and hospital services. These volunteers come from diverse backgrounds but share a common goal: to give back to their community by aiding the hospital in its mission to provide quality healthcare.
One function of the Auxiliary is operating the Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop, also known as the Pink Thrift Store, located at 140 Nob Hill Dr. This store sells lightly used clothing and other items. Additionally, the Auxiliary runs the hospital’s gift shop, offering items for patients, visitors, and staff. Proceeds from both shops fund hospital projects and provide scholarships. Over the past eight years, the LCMC Auxiliary has contributed more than $700,000 towards the construction of the hospital in 2020 and other initiatives, including the new Women’s Healthcare Clinic.
Volunteers assist in various hospital departments, providing non-medical aid, companionship to patients, and help with administrative tasks. Their presence creates a welcoming environment, enhancing the hospital experience for everyone involved. For information on joining the Auxiliary, visit the Information Desk in LCMC’s main lobby.
LCMC Auxiliary
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From the Desk of Superintendent Becca Ferguson
The Ruidoso Municipal Schools Board of Education officially adopted a comprehensive Governance Manual centered on improving student outcomes at the April 8, 2025, school board meeting. This marks a significant step in the district’s commitment to ensuring all students achieve at high levels. Grounded in transparency, accountability, and community engagement, the manual outlines the Board’s strategic direction and monitoring calendar for the next three years, focusing on measurable gains in student learning and outcomes.
At the heart of this work is the strategic goal of increasing student proficiency in Literacy and Mathematics by 15% across all grade levels by the end of the 2026–2027 academic year. These goals are anchored in state-mandated assessments:
» Kindergarten - 2nd Grade: iStation assessing reading and mathematics
» 3rd Grade – 8th Grade: New Mexico Measures of Student Success and Achievement assessing reading and mathematics
» 3rd Grade, 8th Grade, 11th Grade: New Mexico Assessment of Science Readiness
» 11th Grade: SAT
By using clear data points and consistent monitoring, the Board aims to ensure that every student has access to high-quality instruction and the opportunity to grow academically.
The Governance Manual also establishes a year-round monitoring calendar, ensuring that progress toward these goals is reviewed regularly and discussed in public board meetings. Each month is dedicated to reviewing specific goals or guardrails - community-informed constraints that guide district actions and protect student interests. These checkpoints help maintain a sharp focus on student growth and provide opportunities to adjust strategies when needed.
In addition to monitoring student achievement, the manual outlines expectations for School Board selfevaluation, community engagement, and transparent communication. By adopting this governance model, Ruidoso Municipal Schools is aligning leadership practices with a long-term vision for academic excellence. The Board is proud to partner with educators, families, and the community to ensure student success remains at the center of every decision.
Spring EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for spring! Please visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for additional events and details.
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUNDAY:
• Sunday Market, Enchanted Vine Barn
TUESDAY:
• Karaoke Night, WPS
WEDNESDAY:
• Karaoke Night, Quarters Bar & Grill
THURSDAY:
• Veterans Coffee and Company, 615 Sudderth Dr. Ste 1
• Open Mic Night with Tyler Jones, Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap
• Phil Hamilton “Gringo Loco”, Casa Blanca Cantina
THURSDAY - SATURDAY:
• Brendan Dawes, Quarters Bar & Grill
MAY 2:
• Dos De Mayo Pickup Party, Noisy Water Winery
MAY 3:
• All American Comeback BBQ featuring Pat Green, Ruidoso Downs Race Track & Casino
• Dia! Children’s Day/Book Day, Ruidoso Convention Center
• Lincoln Lecture Series: Living in Lincoln – Then & Now, Lincoln Historic Site
MAY 4:
• Banjo Legends, Flying J Ranch
MAY 8-11:
• PDGA 2025 Tim Selinske United States Masters Championships, all local disc golf courses
MAY 9:
• The Doo Wop Project, Spencer Theater
• Ugly Prom, Enchanted Vine Barn
• Artful Tea Time with a Brush of Elegance, Inn of the Mountain Gods
MAY 11:
• Moonlight Hike, White Sands National Park
• Paint & Pints, Downshift Brewing Company Riverside
MAY 15-18:
• AspenCash Motorcycle Rally 2025, Casino Apache Travel Center
MAY 16-18:
• Lincoln Forest Renaissance Faire, Wingfield Park
MAY 23:
• Ruidoso Downs Race Track Opening Day
• Gary Allan, Inn of the Mountain Gods
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM
JUNE 7:
• Gus Macker 2025, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• 7th Annual Great High Mountain Bed Race, Wingfield Park
www.discoverruidoso.com/event-submission-form Submit Your Event
Looking for live music in Ruidoso tonight?
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
We are truly blessed to live in and be a part of such a great community. So much is happening in Ruidoso that it is hard to keep track of it all. I sit on the Village of Ruidoso’s Workforce Housing Advisory Board, and we’re happy to say we’re making progress. The Village’s newest workforce housing project at 603 Mechem is nearing completion! These beautiful modular units will provide homes for individuals working in the Village of Ruidoso and their families. We will continue to work with the Village on future housing developments.
We would like to welcome our new members to the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce: Shannon Loves Flowers, Los Agaves, The Tea Room at Swallow Hill, My Wild Blossoms Beauty Bar, ReNu Medical & Spa, and Facetyme with Gina.
Did you know the Chamber has our own radio program? Chamber Chat airs every Friday morning at 8:00 AM on KRUI The Mountain - 99.1 FM & 1490 AM. If you have a new business or event you would like to promote, please reach out to us at 575-257-7395. We would love to chat with you about it on-air!
We are working on our Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony, which is scheduled for June 27 at the Inn of the Mountain Gods. We hope everyone will come out and celebrate another year with the Chamber. We will announce this year’s Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and Beautification Award. If you know someone or a business that deserves to be nominated, please submit a letter with your nomination, details of their accomplishments, and your contact information to membership@ruidosonow.com.
The Chamber works hard every day to make Ruidoso a better place to live, work, and play. If you would like to be a part of the organization that supports this community, give us a call at 575-257-7395.
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
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
From the Desk of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth
The first Ruidoso Midtown Association Mixer of 2025 was a hit! We are tentatively planning June 10, 2025 for the next “Ruidoso Midtown Mind Mixer” with fun team-building group activities. We hope to see all of you there. The date and time will be announced on our social media and via email.
The XTERRA Triathlon events have been announced and the first event will take place August 15-17, 2025. This multi-year partnership with XTERRA will bring visitors from all over the world.
The Ruidoso Midtown Association will be hosting Brewdoso on August 9, 2025 at Wingfield Park featuring New Mexico’s finest craft beer and wine, food trucks, live music, and loads of family fun for all.
The Ruidoso Midtown Association has received its first grant under the new Executive Director. The funds will be used for Midtown business recovery, grant education, planning events, promoting tourism, and invigorating and improving Midtown Ruidoso. Our first project will be organizing and promoting a FREE Grant Workshop. We will have a guest grant writer who will explain the importance of grants, as well as how and why grants can help businesses and our local economy. This presentation will explain how to become familiar with the grant process.
Regretfully, we did have some business locations in our Midtown that were graffitied recently. Thank you to RMA’s Chris Stettheimer, Ray Griego, and Amanda Foster for volunteering to help cover it up. Also, a thank you to Village Ace Hardware for helping with the supplies. A message to the offender: You are talented in art - channel it into something that will fund your future without destroying the property of others. The Ruidoso Midtown Association is organizing a Midtown Graffiti Task Force. If you notice graffiti in Midtown, please email us, and we will work on having it removed as fast as possible.
EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY – RUIDOSO
From the Desk of President Ryan Trosper
ENMU-Ruidoso Early Childhood Education student Robin Woodward of Ruidoso was recently recognized as a distinguished member and participant of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society. She served as a regional officer and a local officer. After her first semester at ENMU-Ruidoso, she was nominated by the National Honor Society and invited to join PTK and to serve as the president of the local chapter, Beta Pi Sigma, where she served for two years. During her second year, she was nominated to serve as the Regional Officer Secretary.
“In the past two years, I have met other PTK members from around New Mexico, and I am happy to say that we will be life-long friends. We traveled to different conferences held around the state, and we will soon be traveling to Kansas to celebrate our New Mexico Chapter and all the amazing accomplishments we have done together. I hope to see our Ruidoso Chapter grow. There are so many opportunities that PTK offers for community college students. It was an amazing journey, and I look forward to my next adventure,” said Woodward.
She will graduate in May with her Associates degree in Early Childhood Education and plans to continue on for a bachelor’s degree at ENMU in Portales.
ENMU-Ruidoso’s mission is to enhance the lives of students and the communities of Lincoln County. ENMU-Ruidoso Branch Community College combines a traditional learning environment with 21st century instructional technology emphasizing liberal education, freedom of inquiry, cultural diversity, and whole student life. Scholarships, cultural enrichment, excellence in teaching, and enriched learning define the College’s community relationship and contributions.
