As we move into the heart of winter and are enjoying the recent snowfalls, I want to take this opportunity to address several important matters affecting our beautiful mountain village.
First, I want to emphasize the critical importance of our FOG (Fats, Oils, and Greases) program. These substances might seem harmless when poured down drains, but they create serious problems in our water system and at our Regional Waste Water Treatment Plant. When hot grease cools, it solidifies and creates blockages that can lead to expensive repairs and environmental hazards.
Instead of disposing of cooking oils and grease down drains, please collect them in sealed containers. Residents can bring these containers to our Solid Waste Department for proper disposal. For businesses, particularly restaurants, remember that grease traps must be regularly maintained and serviced by licensed contractors. If you need information about approved disposal services, please contact our Public Works Department.
On another note, crews continue their diligent work cleaning up debris from last summer’s wildfires and subsequent flooding. This ongoing effort is essential for both public safety and environmental protection. We appreciate everyone’s patience as we restore our affected areas.
While we’re on the topic of cleanup, I want to address proper pine needle disposal. We ask residents to consolidate pine needles into one or two large piles rather than multiple small ones. This might seem like a minor detail, but it significantly impacts our collection efficiency. When our trucks encounter numerous small piles, operators must repeatedly move and reset the stabilizers, which considerably slows down the collection process. By creating fewer, larger piles, you help our crews work more efficiently and serve more properties each day.
I’m delighted to report that our recent snowfall has brought welcome relief after the New Year. As a winter vacation destination, this snow is vital for our community’s economic wellbeing. Visitors are returning in strong numbers to enjoy our winter wonderland. This natural blessing not only supports our tourism industry but also helps replenish our water resources.
Looking ahead, we’re preparing for what promises to be a busy Spring Break season. Our local businesses are already gearing up to welcome visitors, and early bookings suggest we’ll see substantial tourism activity. This is a testament to Ruidoso’s enduring appeal as a year-round destination.
Remember, our village’s success depends on the cooperation and dedication of all our residents and business owners. By working together on initiatives like the FOG program and supporting our ongoing recovery efforts, we ensure Ruidoso remains the spectacular mountain community we’re all proud to call home.
Don’t forget to tune-in to 1490 KRUI – The Mountain every Monday morning from 8:00-10:00 AM. We encourage questions from the community – you can call, text, or email.
Until next time, take good care and be a good neighbor!
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
STATE OF THE VILLAGE
STATE OF THE VILLAGE
The annual State of the Village serves as a comprehensive overview of the current state of our community, highlighting achievements, challenges, and the path forward. It reflects on the collective progress we have made, the resilience that our community continues to show in the face of challenges, and the unity that makes this such a great community to be a part of. The State of the Village report is not just a compilation of facts and figures but a testament to our shared efforts and aspirations that define us. The complete State of the Village Report can be viewed at Ruidoso-NM.gov.
Financial Stability
The Village began FY 2025 with a cash balance of $53.0M and is currently projecting revenues at $112.3M, which amounts to $165.3M of available cash to spend. Several capital projects were rolled over from FY 2024, and the Village has been very successful in securing grants for these projects. As of December 2024, the Village’s operating budget for personnel, operations, and capital outlay totaled $112.4M.
Some of the grant funded capital projects include the Airport’s Taxiway A Rehabilitation, Water Trust Board Grants for several water infrastructure projects, FEMA sewer line and bridges, and several legislative appropriations. Therefore, anticipated ending cash balance for FY 2025 is projected at $52.9M. All other revenue categories, especially Gross Receipts Taxes, are performing at budget, even though we have seen decreases in other taxes because of the South Fork Fire. The Village received a $44M loan from the State of NM Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) to help offset some of the costs of fixing damages from the South Fork Fire. The Village was advanced half of the funds, and as we receive FEMA reimbursements, the Village will repay back the loan. In addition, in FY 2024, Council passed a rate increase for utilities that took effect on July 1, 2024 (FY 2025).
Gross Receipts Tax
The Village has seen a decrease in GRT due to the fire, however, since Village Council has always been conservative in budgeting revenues, we will still meet budget, even though we are down in GRT. In October, the Village received a lump sum of $864,618 in GRT taxes from correction of CRS-1 reports from a local grocer for a period of seven (7) months, this figure is not included in the charts because it would skew figures. Please refer to the monthly financial report for December for more information.
Lodgers’ Tax
Another revenue area that is suffering from the fire is Lodgers’ Tax. The revenues from housing workers for extended stays is the main cause of the decrease because lodgers’ tax is not collected on this revenue. Currently, as of December 2024, we are down 45.24%. Beginning cash balance of $1.5M is being used to pay for
Debt Financing
The Village recently issued its Series 2024 General Obligation (GO) Bonds for water infrastructure projects. The bond cycling program began in 2014, and this is the eleventh issuance for a total of $16,500,000 in available funding. The GO Bonds are publicly supported funding options from a 1.5 mill levy on property taxes voters approved in the March 2024 election. During the March 2026 election, voters will decide whether to continue with the Mill Levy GO Bonds. The outstanding balance on these bonds is $9,315,000 on December 31, 2024.
Debt – Bond Rating
Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch rated several of the Village’s bond issues. The Village maintains an upper-medium to high-grade rating on its bonds. A bond credit rating represents the creditworthiness of a government entity.
Debt – Go Capacity
State Statutes limit the general obligation debt a governmental entity may issue to four percent (4%) of the total average valuation. The current debt limit for the Village is $25,311,726, which is significantly more than the Village’s outstanding general obligation debt, which totaled $9,315,000 as of December 31, 2024.
Public Infrastructure and Facility Projects
In FY 2025, the Village has started work on over $11M of capital projects most of which are continuation of projects started in prior years. Some of these projects include the FEMA Restoration of the existing sewer line and lift stations, FEMA Bridges, Pinecliff subdivision water line replacement, Public Safety Building (Horton Complex). As the Village completes these projects they also serve as an economic impact strategy to help stimulate the economy with a spending multiplier effect by generating GRT revenue to the Village. In addition, a third of the projects are financed by grants obtained from both Federal and State Agencies. Construction of South Fork Fire recovery projects will allow the Village to create its own GRT that will help cash balances, however, this may be two (2) years down the road.
Audit
The results of our Fiscal Year 2023 Audit were released and resulted in two (2) findings and no material weaknesses. The Village completed the Fiscal Year 2024 audit on time, and it is currently under review by the New Mexico State Auditor’s Office (SAO). The audit results will become a public record in late March 2025. The overall financial health of the Village of Ruidoso remains robust, and both governmental and proprietary funds reported increases to the net position, thus exceeding required reserves and increasing the Village’s cash position.
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
January 14, 2025, Village Council Meeting Highlights:
» Adoption of Ordinance 2024-08 - Chapter 54 Land Use Code of Ordinances Rewrite
» Adoption of Resolution 2025-03 - A Resolution Adopting the 2023 Combined Utility Master Plan
» Approval of Adoption of Resolution 2025-02 - A Resolution Authorizing the Village of Ruidoso to Submit an Application to the Department of Finance and Administration, Local Government Division to Participate in the Local DWI Grant and Distribution Program
Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
Pictured from left to right: Greg Cory, Gary Jackson, Darren Hooker, Lynn Crawford, Mayor Pro Tem Rifle Salas, Susan Lutterman, Joe Eby
LEVEL 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS LEVEL 1 FIRE RESTRICTIONS
WWW.RUIDOSO-NM.GOV
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Permitted commercial fire pits - OK
Outdoor cooking including charcoal - OK
Non-permitted fire pits, campfires, & fireworks - NOT OK
2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Capital Outlay Requests & NMML Priorities
The 60-day 2025 Legislative Session began on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, and will end at noon, on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
During the session, the following Capital Outlay requests, as approved by the Village Council in the ICIP, will be submitted for project funding consideration:
» Workforce Housing ($1,000,000)
» Bridge Replacement Construction ($3,000,000)
» Street and Drainage Improvements ($1,000,000)
» Sewer Infrastructure Projects ($1,000,000)
» Fire and Watershed Improvements ($750,000)
» Purchase & Equip a Mobile Command Unit ($2,400,000)
New Mexico Municipal League members and staff have spent the interim developing key legislative priorities through the NMML’s policy process, and meeting with legislators and other stakeholders to share municipalities’ interests. The Municipal League Board of Directors approved the League’s 2025 legislative priorities at its October 4, 2024 meeting, with a focus spanning emergency service, infrastructure, public records, water security, and protecting local authority.
These priorities are not exhaustive, and as always, the League’s legislative team assesses bills throughout the session to determine potential municipal impacts, and, in consultation with the League’s Executive Committee, determines positions of support or opposition, if necessary. League staff send out a weekly legislative bulletin during the session to update members on how priority bills are faring, identify new bills with potential municipal impacts, and request League member assistance to support or oppose bills.
Below is an overview of the top initiatives NMML will champion to empower communities around the state:
» Amplify the Impact of Emergency Medical Services Funding
» Invest in State and Local Road Infrastructure
» Modernize the Inspection of Public Records Act
» Modernize the Municipal Code
» Invest in Water Infrastructure Projects
» Protect Local Decision-Making Against Preemption
RUIDOSO FIRE DEPARTMENT Weather Safety Tips
As the seasons shift, so do the hazards in the environments. When the cold temperatures arrive, ice and snow accumulation become the primary concern. Ice and snow can lead to slip-and-fall accidents, obstructed pathways, and dangerous driving conditions. Here are some tips for safely removing ice and snow from your home and property:
» Snow Removal Techniques: Start shoveling as soon as possible after snow falls. This prevents it from compacting into ice, making it easier to remove. Be sure to clear walkways, driveways, and access points to your home. For large areas or heavy snowfalls, a snowblower can save time and effort. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation. When shoveling, avoid lifting snow. Instead, push the snow to the side to avoid strain and injury.
» De-icing Methods: Sodium chloride is commonly used to melt ice, but it can be harmful to plants, pets, and concrete surfaces. Use it sparingly and opt for alternatives like calcium chloride if needed. Sand does not melt ice, but it can provide traction, helping to reduce slip hazards. Consider using eco-friendly de-icing products that are less harmful to the environment. Products made from potassium acetate or magnesium chloride are safer alternatives.
» Preventing Ice Formation: Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water from pooling and refreezing on the roof. Install heating cables along roof edges to prevent ice dams from forming. Seal any cracks in the driveway or sidewalks to prevent water from seeping in and freezing. This will help minimize the damage caused by ice expansion.
» Slip Prevention: When walking on icy or snowy surfaces, wear boots or shoes with good traction to prevent slips. Place non-slip mats or rugs near entrances to wipe off snow and ice before going inside. Ensure that walkways, stairs, and driveways are properly cleared and deiced to avoid accidents.
Winter conditions present unique challenges, but with proactive safety measures and proper preparation, the risks can be greatly reduced. Ensuring that ice and snow do not impede mobility and safety, and being vigilant and prepared is key. Keep property safe and secure and always stay informed of local weather conditions to be ready for any emergency.
By following the tips outlined here, you can protect your home, loved ones, and community from the dangers associated with winter moisture hazards.
The Village of Ruidoso is looking for qualified people to join our team! We currently have openings in several departments, and we offer opportunities for competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and NM Public Employees Retirement Association plans!
• Earn more with the Village’s pay-for-performance plan
• Progressive pay and step plans are available
• Continuing education courses and specialized training are available
• Excellent opportunities for advancement in all departments
HUMANE SOCIETY OF LINCOLN COUNTY
World Spay Day
The Humane Society of Lincoln County is offering free spay/neuter services on February 25, 2025, at the shelter for World Spay Day. Registration begins on February 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Humane Society Animal Shelter located at 255962 Highway 70. There are limited spots available for these services.
If pets are not already vaccinated or microchipped, these services can be purchased along with the free spay/ neuter service.
Did you know that cats can have up to 12 kittens and dogs can have up to 16 puppies in only one year? The only way to decrease the overpopulation of homeless animals in this community is to stop unnecessary litters.
For more information go to hslcnm.org, call (575)257-9841, scan the QR code, or visit the shelter.
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From the Desk of Superintendent Becca Ferguson
The Ruidoso Municipal School District is excited to announce significant investments in our facilities, ensuring that our students and staff have access to modern, safe, and functional learning environments.
Ruidoso Middle School’s culinary arts classroom will undergo a $1.2 million transformation, set to provide state-of-the-art facilities for our budding chefs. The renovations will include:
» New mobile workstations for hands-on culinary training.
» Upgraded equipment, including dishwashers, wash sinks, and exhaust hoods.
» Improved fire safety systems to enhance security.
» Aesthetic and functional updates, such as new flooring, upgraded lighting, and enhanced technology integration.
“I am most excited for new opportunities for my students. With the new facility and equipment, they will be able to engage in deeper learning, experiences, and demonstration of their skills,” said Amber Griffin, RMS Culinary Arts teacher. Griffin has led the program for eight years and is anxious for the renovation to get underway.
Griffin also highlighted the broader impact of the renovation. She explained that her program is very popular with students and will become even more so with the newer, bigger and state-of-the-art facilities. The renovations will allow RMS Culinary to branch out into the community with fundraising, the Braves Bistro program, and other events.
“As for myself and my future students, I would like to give a huge thank you to our community, school board, and my fellow school employees for making this dream a reality. The Culinary Arts program at RMS will continue to thrive and enrich the experiences for the students for years to come,” said Griffin.
National Construction from Alamogordo has been contracted for the project, which is expected to be completed by August 2025.
Phase I Renovations at Ruidoso High School
The district has secured funding from the Public-School Capital Outlay Council (PSCOC) to support critical upgrades at Ruidoso High School. The total project cost is $16,679,200, with the district contributing 63% matching funds of $10,507,896 and Public-School Capital Outlay providing 37% matching funds of $6,171,304. The project will consist of two phases for completing.
Phase I of the project will focus on architectural and structural planning, laying the foundation for a welldesigned and structurally sound renovation for:
» Stucco Replacement: Upgrading the exterior envelope for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
» HVAC Systems: Introducing heating and cooling to classrooms, creating a comfortable learning environment.
» Lighting Upgrades: Replacing fluorescent lighting with energy-efficient LED systems.
» Plumbing Overhaul: Substituting cast iron pipes with PVC for reliability and efficiency.
» Locker Room Renovations: Modernizing facilities for athletic and physical education classes.
The allocation ensures the completion of these critical upgrades and sets the stage for potential future phases, pending approval at upcoming Public School Capital Outlay Council meetings.
These projects reflect Ruidoso Municipal Schools’ commitment to fostering a safe, innovative, and inspiring environment for our students and staff. We look forward to seeing these enhancements come to life and the positive impact they will have on our school community.
Winter EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for winter! Please visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for additional events and details.
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS
TUESDAY:
• Karaoke Night WPS
THURSDAY:
• Veterans Coffee and Company, 615 Sudderth Drive, Suite 1
• Open Mic Night with Tyler Jones, DownshiftHidden Tap
• Phil Hamilton, Casa Blanca
FEBRUARY 1:
• Ace & Stace, Wes Texas, WPS
• Josh and The Dirty Rags, Downshift Riverside
FEBRUARY 2:
• Southernmost, WPS
FEBRUARY 5:
• Lincoln County Day Reception, Santa Fe
FEBRUARY 7-8:
• Two of a Kind, Southernmost, WPS
FEBRUARY 8:
• Meet the Distiller, The Perfect Gift with Algodones Distillery
FEBRUARY 10:
• Wine & Chocolate Pairing, Noisy Water Winery
FEBRUARY 11:
• Ruidoso Writers’ Group, Ruidoso Public Library
FEBRUARY 13:
• Sip & Paint Your Partner, Enchanted Vine
FEBRUARY 14:
• 112, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Marc Gerona, Four of a Kind, WPS
• Brian Mars, The Cantina
FEBRUARY 15:
• Wes Texas, Southernmost, WPS
FEBRUARY 15-16:
• Vines in the Pines Art and Wine Festival, Ruidoso Convention Center
FEBRUARY 16:
• Southernmost, WPS
• Galentines Day Paint & Pints, Downshift - Riverside
FEBRUARY 18:
• Wine & Books, Enchanted Vine
FEBRUARY 21-22:
• Marc Gerona, 575 Band, WPS
TUESDAY:
• Baby & Me at 10:30 AM
WEDNESDAY:
• Storytime at 10:30 AM
• Teen Scene at 3:30 PM
FEBRUARY 22-23:
• 4th Annual Big Ben Sanchez Youth Foundation Adult Basketball Tournament, Ruidoso High School Gymnasiums
FEBRUARY 23:
• Southernmost, WPS
FEBRUARY 25:
• World Spay Day, Humane Society of Lincoln County
• Ruidoso Writers’ Group, Ruidoso Public Library
FEBRUARY 28:
• HighRollers Tattoo Expo, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Ace & Stace, Southernmost, WPS
• HighRollers Tattoo Expo, Inn of the Mountain Gods
MARCH 3:
• Dragons and Mythical Beasts, Spencer Theater
MARCH 8:
• Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Inn of the Mountain Gods
MARCH 11:
• Ruidoso Writers’ Group, Ruidoso Public Library
MARCH 15:
• The Links 5K Run/Walk, White Mountain Sports Complex
• When Disco Was King, Spencer Theater
• Justin Moore, Inn of the Mountain Gods
MARCH 15-16:
• Yucca Blossom Trade Days Shamrock Showcase, Ruidoso Convention Center
MARCH 22:
• Emeral Isle, Spencer Theater
MARCH 25:
• Ruidoso Writers’ Group, Ruidoso Public Library
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
We are excited about the upcoming year and the events we have planned. One of our most important events will be February 5, 2025 at the Herve’ Wine Bar in Santa Fe. Every year we hold the Lincoln County Day Legislative Reception in Santa Fe. This reception gives our Chamber members and businesses in Lincoln County the opportunity to speak one-on-one with our legislators. This year more than ever we need to make sure we bring our concerns to our legislators. If we do not speak up, then we cannot expect our needs to be met. The Legislative Session began on January 21, 2025 and will run through March 22, 2025. The public is invited to the reception. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by calling the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Almost immediately following our Santa Fe Reception, we will be hosting our Vines in the Pines Wine Festival on February 15-16, 2025 at the Ruidoso Convention Center. We will have New Mexico wineries present as well as food and other boutique vendors. We have added live music to the event. This is a great opportunity to indulge in some wine tasting while enjoying local art, crafts, food, boutique vendors and local brews available for those who are not wine drinkers. Tickets are available at HoldMyTicket.com or at the door.
If you are a member of the Chamber and would like to host a Business After Hours, we have openings and would love to get one scheduled for you. Please reach out to us at the chamber at 575-257-7395. If you are not a member of the chamber, we would be happy to discuss chamber membership with you. We are an organization that is committed to making Ruidoso a better place to live, work and play. Our mission is to foster development, growth and prosperity in Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, Lincoln County, and the surrounding area.
www.discoverruidoso.com/event-submission-form
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
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
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER
VILLAGE HALL: 575-258-4343
• Capital Projects and Purchasing
• Executive
• Finance
• Forestry
• Human Resources
• Planning and Zoning
• Utility Billing
From the Desk of The Chief Executive – Todd Oberheu
Are you wondering why Lincoln County Medical Center is talking about gardening in February? In the middle of winter, we look forward to the return of Spring. Many of you that have used the hospital services over the last two years have likely seen our Employee Garden area at the front of the hospital.
This garden creates a beautiful green space that not only produces food for our staff, but it also offers an opportunity for our staff to take a minute for themselves while at work. Beyond the benefits of the food produced, gardening also has numerous health benefits.
In a 2011 study, researchers exposed study participants to a stressful activity. Then they asked half the group to spend time quietly reading and the other half to spend time gardening. When researchers tested the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their bodies, they found that the gardening group had recovered from the stress better than the reading group. The gardening group also reported that their moods had returned to a positive state — while fewer of the readers had. Another study in 2014 found that horticultural therapy, using gardening to improve mental health, may be an effective treatment for people with dementia.
Gardening on the mountain is often perceived as too difficult. Although challenging, the LCMC Employee Garden shows what can happen with a little bit of effort. Start with a pot on your porch. Anyone who likes tomatoes knows that nothing beats a home-grown, ripe tomato.
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
From the Desk Of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth
I grew up in Texas and never thought I would want to leave – that is until I started visiting my in-laws in Ruidoso about 14 years ago. After moving my daughter to college at the University of Arkansas, my wife and I moved to the lovely Village of Ruidoso. Now I cannot imagine living anywhere else. When I witnessed first-hand how resilient the people of Ruidoso are after the devastating fires and floods, I knew I had to find a way to get more involved in our community.
I came to RMA with many years of experience in customer relations and project management, working at EDS/Hewlett Packard and, most recently at CitiTurf (a large landscaping company in North Texas). I am looking forward to utilizing my experience and skills to bring fun activities and economic growth to Midtown and beyond. I truly believe that by working with the major stakeholders of this community, there is nothing we cannot do to put us on a much bigger map.
Though I have only been the director for six weeks, I was very excited to see the number of visitors we had in Midtown during the holiday season. It was two straight weeks of packed Midtown stores and restaurants. This is a great new beginning for Midtown and Ruidoso. We already have some great new ideas in the works to help accelerate what we are seeing.
SOLID WASTE
Trash Protocol
The Department of Solid Waste reminds everyone that grapple service slows down during January to assist with extra pick-ups of dumpsters and the transportation of trash to the landfill.
It is important that all slash and pine needles be placed next to the dumpsters or on edge of property in one single pile. This allows for the grapple truck to pick up more efficiently. Be sure there are no powerlines above the pile and that there is a sufficient area for the grapple truck to anchor for a safe pickup. Logs should be piled separately. Please do not place slash, needles, or logs in the road.
A few reminders about trash protocols:
» Residents and visitors may use any residential dumpster in the area. Please do not use commercial dumpsters to dispose of trash.
» Remember to break down cardboard boxes and dispose of them in the blue recycling dumpsters if possible.
» Please be diligent in closing the dumpster lids after every visit to prevent bear messes.
» When disposing of extra-large items that will fill the dumpsters, place the item next to the dumpster and call Solid Waste to pick it up at 575-257-1502.
