Public Meetings - Clovis, New Mexico

The Economic Incentive Board of Clovis, New Mexico, met on September 9, 2026, at 8:30 AM in the North Annex of the Clovis-Carver Library. The meeting included roll call, approval of previous meeting minutes, a financial report on the Economic Development Fund, and an update on ongoing CED (Community Economic Development) projects. The board discussed industrial park acreage and future site readiness applications. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: A motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting was made and seconded. The motion passed with one abstention from a member who had been absent at the prior meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Economic Development Fund Financial Report: Presented by City Manager Holwalt. Gross receipts tax revenues for August 2026 were nearly $143,000, compared to approximately $142,000 in August 2025. Year-to-date revenues reached $309,000, up from $292,000 in the same period last year. Expenditures for August 2026 were $2,600 (all for GRT fees paid to the state), compared to $12,000 in August 2025. Year-to-date expenditures totaled $6,500. The fund began the month with $8.5 million in cash and investments and ended with $8.6 million, of which $8 million was invested in the state investment pool and $600,000 in bank accounts. The city also holds a $10 million CD separate from this fund. The board accepted the report by motion, which passed unanimously. - Update on CED Projects: Presented by economic development director Tina. Key points: - Thanked Mr. Montragon for organizing a study session with the New Mexico Partnership and Deputy Secretary Isaac Romero. - Industrial Park: No new updates; awaiting decisions on two site readiness funding applications for lighting, signage, and rail spur expansion. Delays due to staff changes at the state economic development department. - Project Referrals (PROs): 13 in the last quarter; one response was sent for Project Sindel 2 (a manufacturer of energy storage systems). - Site Location Partnership (SLP): Contracted last year; SLP attended the Automate trade show in June, generating 13 leads across various industries. The SLP CEO conducted a site visit on September 1, touring the industrial park and airport. SLP is sending emails to targeted industries (food processing, aviation, metalworking, dairy, warehousing, medical devices). One response from a wiring harness manufacturer was received; information was sent. - Ongoing discussions with brokers and consultants for aerospace/defense projects. - Clover Sound Studios (sound studio) progress: active on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. - Events attended: ribbon cuttings, luncheons, conferences, and meetings (e.g., Chamber committees, housing meetings, Main Street festival grant application). - Grants: Received $10,000 from Wells Fargo and $40,000 from the state. Recertified as an economic development organization for the fourth consecutive year. - Upcoming: On October 29, co-hosting a listening session with BCT Partners for HUD’s Distress Cities Technical Assistance Program to discuss housing barriers and regulatory challenges. - Industrial Park Acreage Update: In response to a board member’s question, City Manager Holwalt stated that First Ammonia had previously optioned the north half of the park but indicated they would not renew the option until their Victoria project is completed. The entire park is expected to become available soon. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes: Motion carried with one abstention. - Accepted Financial Report: Motion carried unanimously. - No Other Formal Votes: No additional actions were taken on the CED project updates or other items. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for 8:30 AM on Wednesday, December 9, 2026, at the same location.

The Planning & Zoning Commission met on September 9, 2026 at 3:00 PM to conduct routine business, including the approval of agenda and minutes and two replat requests. The meeting lasted approximately six minutes. Discussion Items - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved by a motion from Commissioner Moore, seconded by Commissioner Garza, with all in favor. - Approval of Minutes (August 12, 2026): Commissioner Garza noted a correction: the minutes stated “Commissioner Martin did not know if he would build a structure” but should say “Mr. Santiago did not know.” With that correction, the minutes were approved by a motion from Commissioner Garza, seconded by Commissioner Moore, all in favor. - Replat of Colonnade Village Unit 1, Block 21, Lots 1-8: Planning & Zoning Administrator Michael Perkins presented a request to replat lots currently zoned for residential multifamily to accommodate residential single-family dwellings. The replat reduces lot sizes to create an additional lot, increasing the total by one. Commissioner Martin moved approval, seconded by Commissioner Moore. All in favor. - Replat of 1418 South Lea Street: Mr. Perkins presented a request to replat a metes-and-bounds tract into two units, preserving an existing access easement. Commissioner London asked clarifying questions about the property remaining metes-and-bounds and its definition. Commissioner Garza moved approval, seconded by Commissioner Garza (apparent self-second; transcribed as “second by Commissioner Garza”). All in favor. Key Outcomes - Approval of August 12, 2026 Minutes: Approved with a correction. - Replat of Colonnade Village Unit 1, Block 21, Lots 1-8: Approved (unanimous). - Replat of 1418 South Lea Street: Approved (unanimous). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM.

The Clovis Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board met at 5:30 PM on September 8, 2026, at the North Annex, 701 N. Main, Clovis, New Mexico. The board approved the July 14, 2026 minutes, heard seven requests for Lodger’s Tax Fund support, and approved $38,500 in new allocations while preserving funds for later fiscal-year requests. Roll Call and Minutes - Present: Chair Thomas Martin, Tasha Padilla, Jonathan Nelson, Hugo Hernandez, Alfred Bryant, and Mayor Pro Tem Tim Garza. The board welcomed new member Hugo Hernandez and new staff member Charlie. - The board approved the July 14, 2026 minutes. Lodger’s Tax Funding Requests - The first two requests were described as rollovers from the previous meeting. - Clovis Christmas Parade — Lisa and Paul described the parade as the longest-running and largest free family event in Clovis, with records back to 1913 and attendance of 14,000 to 20,000. Paul said it is the largest lighted parade in New Mexico and that funding would be used to advertise it statewide. Lisa cited Placer AI data showing 272 hotel room check-ins directly tied to last year’s parade and a record 100 floats. - Downtown Block Party / Greater Blocks Party — Lisa and Paul proposed a new downtown evening block party to showcase the completed downtown revitalization, with possible dates October 23 or November 6, and with the goal of attracting overnight visitors. Paul said New Mexico Main Street and the governor’s office had expressed interest in attending. - High Plains Junior Rodeo — Linda requested funding for two upcoming rodeo events in November and February. She said the rodeo is family-oriented, with competitors roughly ages 3 to 19, 32 individuals staying in hotel rooms, and additional rooms rented for judges and timers. She described logoed jackets, saddles, hay bags, and buckles as advertising. The board noted that $10,000 of a $30,000 request had been awarded in May for the July finals. - Little Ballers Inc. — Jalen Gallegos requested support for the Wildcat Triple Threat 3v3 basketball tournament on November 7–8, 2026, and the Second Annual Winter Games flag football tournament on December 5–6, 2026. He projected out-of-town teams from Eastern New Mexico and West Texas, dozens of hotel nights, and restaurant spending, and described branded jerseys, banners, rings, and social media promotion. The basketball request was adjusted from $8,000 to $6,500 after ineligible expenses for rental and referees were removed. - Black Pearl Boxing Halloween Brawl — A representative presented a two-day boxing event on October 17–18 with 30 bouts each day, Halloween costume contests, and out-of-town hotel stays. - Clovis Community College Cultural Art Series — Nikki requested marketing funds for two performances: Batakanga on October 17 and Cassette’s "Movement for Mercy" on November 7, both at Marshall Auditorium. Nikki said the November performance highlights teen mental health and juvenile justice themes, and the funding would support targeted advertising. She noted the September 26 show had already been funded. - Clovis/Chamber Community Profile and Membership Directory — Kim requested support for the 2027 community profile and membership directory, distributed to newcomers, conventions, and hotels, highlighting business, education, healthcare, recreation, and quality of life. Finance Report - Mr. Holwall reported that the fiscal year-end cash balance was about $238,629, with about $228,000 carried over for previously awarded projects, leaving roughly $10,000 to start the year. - The board budgeted about $290,000 for awards for the year; actual Lodger’s Tax revenue for the first two months was about $17,000 above budget. - Total available for distribution was about $318,000. After the July meeting awarded $92,972, the fund balance was $225,229.66, leaving about $45,000 for each remaining bi-monthly meeting. - Requests this evening totaled $87,950, later corrected to $86,450 after removing the ineligible Little Ballers expenses. Board Deliberation - Board members discussed being fiscally responsible and preserving funds for larger events later in the year, referencing prior allocation ranges of roughly 25 to 30 percent in some meetings. - They agreed that Lodger’s Tax funds could not pay for rental or referees, so the Little Ballers request was reduced and allocated $4,000 to each of its two events. - A member also raised the long-term goal of reducing events’ reliance on Lodger’s Tax funding. - The board settled on $5,000 for the Christmas Parade, $3,000 for the Greater Blocks Party, $10,000 for High Plains Junior Rodeo, $3,500 for Black Pearl Boxing, $4,000 for the Community College Cultural Art Series, and $5,000 for the Chamber Community Profile. Key Outcomes - A motion by Tasha Padilla, seconded by Alfred (Freddie) Bryant, to approve the funding recommendations carried. - Approved new allocations: - Clovis Christmas Parade: $5,000 - Downtown/Greater Blocks Party: $3,000 - High Plains Junior Rodeo: $10,000 - Little Ballers Wildcat Triple Threat basketball tournament: $4,000 - Little Ballers Winter Games flag football tournament: $4,000 - Black Pearl Halloween Brawl: $3,500 - Clovis Community College Cultural Art Series: $4,000 - Clovis/Chamber Community Profile: $5,000 - Total new allocations: $38,500. - The city commission meeting is September 17, with approval emails going out September 18; no expenditures may occur before that date. - The next Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board meeting is November 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

The Clovis City Commission met on September 3, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the North Annex of the Clovis-Carver Library. The meeting began with a prayer, pledges, and roll call, with all eight commissioners present (Commissioner Jones joined virtually). The commission approved the agenda, the minutes from August 20, 2026, and unanimously adopted several consent items and new business items. A proclamation was issued for the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Items approved unanimously (8-0): - Application for up to $500,000 from the New Mexico Fire Protection Grant Council's FY27 Fire Protection Grant Program. - Application for up to $9,058,168 from the New Mexico Health Care Authority's Rural Health Innovation Fund Program. - Application for up to $500 from Keep America Beautiful's 2026 Fall Mini Green Grant Program. - Approval of a change order with Nick Griego and Sons for the Main Street Improvement Project. - Award of Taxiway Bravo and Apron Maintenance to American Road Maintenance and application for FAA and NMDOT State Aviation grant agreement for the work. Proclamation - Proclamation: Day of Remembrance – September 11, 2026: The commission proclaimed September 11, 2026 as a Day of Remembrance in observance of the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Kristian Price (Curry County Community Services Administrator) and City Clerk Charli Massey presented details of a joint ceremony with Curry County and Cannon Air Force Base, to be held at noon on Friday, September 11, 2026, in front of the Curry County Courthouse. The ceremony will include reading of names and a public display titled "Faces of 9-11" at the library. The proclamation was read by Mayor Morris. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comment. Discussion Items - Transfer of Dispenser Liquor License (DIS-001072): The commission held a public hearing for the transfer of the liquor license from Total Hospitality Management LLC to Clovis Hospitality Investments LLC for the Days Inn at 2700 E. Mabry Drive. City Attorney Jared Morris noted proper publication. No testimony was offered, and the hearing was closed. The commission unanimously approved the transfer. - Airport Marketing Grant and Agreement with Key Lime Air: Assistant City Manager Claire Burroughes (presented by City Manager Justin Howalt) requested approval to apply for up to $95,000 from the NMDOT Aviation System Assistance Program (ASAP), including a $9,500 match. Key Lime Air Corporation (Denver Air Connection) will reimburse the city’s match and funds will be used to promote the Clovis Regional Airport under the Essential Air Service Program. Commissioner Zamora asked about the marketing plan; Howalt explained the plan includes digital media ($53,000/year), direct mailers, and billboards in Hereford, Muleshoe, and Portales to attract passengers from outside the community. The item was approved unanimously. - Fleet Lease Agreement with Enterprise Fleet Management: City Manager Justin Howalt presented a proposal to transition from purchasing fleet vehicles to a five-year leasing program. The first-year cost is approximately $919,000, which will lease 87 vehicles compared to the previous budget of $900,000 for purchasing 16 vehicles. The program covers 144 core vehicles (police interceptors, light/medium trucks, passenger vehicles) but excludes fire department, heavy equipment, and ambulances. Full maintenance is included, with costs reduced by $15,000 from the original proposal. Vehicles will be upfitted (decals, light bars) before delivery. Commissioner Porter expressed support, noting long-term savings. The item was approved unanimously. - Reports from the NMML Annual Conference: Commissioners who attended the New Mexico Municipal League Conference (August 25-28, 2026) shared highlights. Commissioner King warned about data centers and the need for a careful policy, not a ban. Commissioner Bryant agreed and emphasized the need for a protective policy. City Manager Howalt noted a keynote on dignity and respect in political discourse. Mayor Morris was elected as the next president of NMML. The Clovis team won the golf tournament first place, with Commissioner Jones winning closest to the pin and longest drive. A session with nonprofit founder Jeff Savilico involved packing boxes for children’s hospitals. - Financial Report Correction: Director of Finance Malanson reported a $641,000 error in GRT reporting that will be added to the next month’s report, partially offsetting earlier declines attributed to cannabis reporters. - Future Agenda Items: City Manager Howalt previewed upcoming items: roadway improvements on Main Street (21st to 8th) with pricing from K Barnett, a lease agreement for properties near the landfill, demolition of some community properties, and a potential moratorium on data centers within municipal boundaries until unified development regulations are in place. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items were approved unanimously (8-0). - Liquor license transfer was approved unanimously (8-0) after a public hearing. - Airport marketing grant application and agreement with Key Lime Air were approved unanimously (8-0). - Fleet lease agreement with Enterprise Fleet Management was approved unanimously (8-0). - Future meetings were announced: Lodger's Tax Advisory Board (Sept 8), Economic Incentive Board (Sept 9), Planning & Zoning Commission (Sept 9), Revenue Review Committee (Sept 14), and next City Commission meeting (Sept 17, 2026).

The meeting was called to order with a prayer and pledge, followed by roll call showing all commissioners present. The agenda and minutes from August 6, 2026, were approved unanimously. Key topics included the introduction of two ordinances related to childcare facilities in response to state SB 96, appointments to the Lodger's Tax Advisory Board and Library Board, an easement with New Mexico Gas Company, and a presentation from the Curry County Youth Committee. Reports covered senior services, economic development, public meetings on infrastructure projects, a behavioral health funding milestone, and the monthly investment report. Public Comments & Testimony - Curry County Youth Committee (CCYC): Three youth members (Justice Kinshillow, Abby, Liliana) presented the committee's mission to build youth community, address disconnection among teens, and seek partnership for advertising, funding, and facility space. They shared that the committee reached 566 people at a recent booth event. They requested help with amplified advertising, funding, and civic networking. The mayor suggested using the Youth Recreation Building (YRB) in the interim and offered consideration for reduced rental fees. Commissioners expressed strong support and followed the CCYC on social media. Discussion Items - Presentation of 2026 Yard of the Summer Awards: Commissioner Palla and Marketing Coordinator Nicolle Graff recognized winners from each district. Winners included Thomas Cassidy (District 1), Joshua Four (District 3), Bobby Dudley (District 2), Jose Franco Baron (District 3), Raymond Garcia (District 3), Isaiah and Noemi Aviles (District 3), Thomas Deluna (District 4), and Priscilla Garcia (District 4). Winners received a watering can with prizes and will have yard signs placed. - Introduction of Ordinance Amending UDO for Childcare Facilities: City Attorney Jared Morris explained SB 96 requires allowing up to 12 children in family child care homes (previously 6) and permitting child care centers in residential multifamily zones. He noted a correction needed in the definition of daycare center. The ordinance was introduced unanimously. - Introduction of Ordinance Amending Business Registration Fees for Childcare Providers: Morris presented an ordinance to exempt childcare facilities from business registration fees per SB 96, while still requiring registration. Introduced unanimously. - Appointments to Lodger's Tax Advisory Board: Tasha Padilla and Jonathan Nelson (hotel industry) and Freddy Bryant (tourist-serving industry) were reappointed. Hugo Hernandez was elected as the citizen member over Salvador Nanez following brief statements from both applicants. - Re-appointment to Library Board: Ann Shuckman was reappointed. Jasmine Blair was elected as the citizen member over Salvador Nanez after both spoke about their interest in serving, with Blair emphasizing literacy and digital outreach. - Easement with New Mexico Gas Company: Morris explained the easement for a gas distribution pipeline on city-owned property near Goodwin Trails, negotiated to prioritize city sewer lines. Approved unanimously. - Senior Services Committee Report: Mayor reported that the meal site served 5,839 meals in July 2026, including 344 unique seniors dining in and 99 homebound seniors—a 16% increase from July 2025. Discussion on an appointment to the Non-Metro Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council; staff will work with Curry County to find representatives. - Economic Incentive Board Study Session: Ms. Burroughs reported presentations from the State Economic Development Department and New Mexico Partnership on industry recruitment processes. - Public Meetings Update: Two public meetings were held: one on Yano Estacado improvements (east of North Street to Humphrey Street) and one on railroad crossings at Martin Luther King and Norris Street, with BNSF partnership. Three options for a grade-separated bridge at MLK were presented. The projects are open for public comment on the city website. - Behavioral Health Milestone: Ms. Burroughs announced approval of $6.6 million (possibly reduced to $5.9 million due to tribal funding discussions) from the behavioral health reform fund for operations of the crisis triage center. Funding is expected in 3–4 months. - Monthly Investment Report: Ms. Melancin reported beginning cash $74.4 million, ending cash $80.7 million. Interest for the month was just under $207,000. Gross receipts are down 5.84% compared to last year, but trending 10% above budget. The state investment pool rate dropped to 3.63%. Key Outcomes - Approved introduction of Ordinance Amending UDO for Childcare Facilities (unanimous) with a correction to the daycare center definition. - Approved introduction of Ordinance Amending Business Registration Fees for Childcare Providers (unanimous). - Appointed Hugo Hernandez as citizen member to Lodger's Tax Advisory Board (elected by ballot). - Reappointed Ann Shuckman and appointed Jasmine Blair to the Library Board. - Approved easement with New Mexico Gas Company (unanimous). - Next meeting: September 3, 2026, at 5:15 PM in the North Annex of Clovis-Carver Library.

The Economic Incentive Board (EIB) held a special study session on August 19, 2026, at 8:00 AM at the North Annex, Clovis-Carver Library. The board received presentations from Melina Allen, CEO/President of the New Mexico Economic Partnership, and Deputy Secretary Isaac Romero of the New Mexico Economic Development Department (EDD), along with field representatives Jim Lucero and Kevin Wilson. The session focused on the state's economic development processes, incentives, and opportunities for Clovis. No votes or formal actions were taken. Consent Calendar - No items. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - New Mexico Economic Partnership (NMEP) Presentation: Melina Allen detailed the business attraction process, emphasizing the 'unsexy' pre-announcement work. The NMEP handles lead generation and project management for the state, processing 60–70 projects annually, with 150–200+ open at any time. She highlighted the PRO (Potential Recruitment Opportunity) process, where communities respond to confidential project requests within typically two weeks. Site visits are critical; New Mexico has seen site visits increase from an average of 14–16 per year to 35 in the last year. She noted that 85% of site questions are about utilities and infrastructure, not workforce. Allen introduced a forthcoming AI tool (Site Hunt) that will pre-populate PRO responses, potentially reducing local workload by 75%. She also discussed the challenge of load study timelines from Southwest Power Pool, which can take 18 months, causing Clovis to lose opportunities. - Economic Development Department (EDD) Presentation: Deputy Secretary Isaac Romero reviewed key state programs: LEDA (closing fund) has created 7,300+ jobs since 2020 with $17B+ economic impact; JTIP (job training) reimburses up to 90% of wages for new hires. He highlighted the Strategic Site Readiness Development Act, which has characterized 67 sites and designated 27, with $24 million allocated for pre-development work. The Opportunity Enterprise Revolving Loan Fund can finance investor-owned speculative buildings, and the Public Project Revolving Loan Fund offers another avenue for local government construction. Romero also outlined the Technology and Innovation Office (TIO) with $150 million in R&D funds, including quantum and advanced energy grants. Field representatives Jim Lucero and Kevin Wilson stressed that 85% of job growth comes from existing industry expansions and described their roles in business retention and expansion (BRE) visits. - Leveraging Cannon Air Force Base: Board member Alan Kinland asked about attracting defense and aerospace industries to Clovis. Secretary Romero noted collaboration with the Military Base Planning Commission and state marketing funds targeting defense. Field rep Jim Lucero emphasized that site readiness at the airport industrial park is essential to attract companies like Lockheed or Raytheon. Chairman Raymond mentioned ongoing discussions with Pentagon officials, including General LaMontagne, who highlighted Cannon's importance and the Melrose Bombing Range as a 'Crown Jewel'. - Speculative Building Funding: Board member Jason Gonzalez asked about grants to build large facilities (e.g., 100,000+ sq ft) for PRO opportunities. Secretary Romero identified the Public Project Revolving Loan Fund as a current best option, along with matching site readiness funds and DOT transportation project funds. He stated that existing programs may be sufficient without creating new ones, and the department is working to de-risk development. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational. - The NMEP's Site Hunt AI tool will be officially announced at the statewide conference in September 2026. - The next EIB meeting is scheduled for 8:30 AM, Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the North Annex. - The meeting recording will be posted on the city's website under the EIB section, and members will receive an email notification. - Board members were encouraged to maintain confidentiality of PROs and to ensure their communities have pre-prepared site and utility data to respond quickly to opportunities.

The Planning & Zoning Commission met on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the North Annex. The meeting addressed two new business items: an appeal for a conditional use for an upholstery shop at 1208 East 4th Street and an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to comply with Senate Bill 96 regarding childcare. Both items were decided with unanimous votes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Motion by Commissioner London, second by Commissioner Garza, passed unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (June 10, 2026): Motion by Commissioner Garza, second by Commissioner Moore, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Neighbor of 1208 East 4th Street (name not specified, address 05 Hakery): Expressed support for the applicant’s upholstery shop, noting the neighborhood is quiet and he had “only real problem” was noise, which the applicant promised to minimize. He also asked how a potential rezoning of the block would affect his own residential property. Staff explained that his residential use would be allowed to continue but any new construction would have to meet residential multifamily standards. Discussion Items - Request for Appeal of Staff Interpretation of UDO and Approval of Conditional Use for Upholstery Shop at 1208 East 4th Street: Michael Perkins, Zoning Administrator, presented the application. He noted that because the property lacks a principal residential structure (the original house was demolished two or more years ago), a home occupation conditional use is not allowed under the UDO. The accessory structure is on a residential lot (RS-7 zone) and allowing the use would constitute spot zoning. Applicant Jairo Santiago testified that he intends to keep the shop clean and quiet, and that he signed a six-month lease with four months remaining. Commissioners expressed sympathy but concluded the application does not meet the UDO requirement of a principal use. Mr. Perkins mentioned a possible rezoning of the block, but the commission noted a variance is explicitly prohibited for accessory uses without a principal structure. The neighbor added that the shop had previously been used as a mechanic shop, though not officially. - Request for Approval to Amend the Unified Development Ordinance in Response to Senate Bill 96 and Related to Childcare: City Attorney Jared Morris presented the proposed amendments. Senate Bill 96, effective July 1, 2026, restricts local regulation of childcare centers. Key changes to the UDO include: increasing the definition of “family child care home” to up to 12 children (previously up to 6) and making it permitted in all zones except industrial; creating a new definition for state-licensed daycare (more than 12 children) and allowing it in RM (residential multifamily), CG (commercial general), and CBD (central business district) zones, while still prohibiting it in RS-7 and RS-170 zones. The amendments also remove any local license, registration, or fee requirements for childcare providers, to be addressed by the City Commission separately. Key Outcomes - Upholstery Shop Conditional Use Appeal: Motion by Commissioner Moore (amended from “motion to deny” to “motion to approve staff interpretation that the use is not applicable”), second by Commissioner Martin. The motion passed with all commissioners in favor, none opposed. The applicant was advised to seek a commercial property or consider rezoning, with staff offering assistance. - UDO Amendment for Childcare (Senate Bill 96): Motion by Commissioner Martin, second by Commissioner Moore. The motion passed unanimously. The amendments will be forwarded to the City Commission for final adoption. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for 3:00 PM, Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

The Clovis City Commission met on August 6, 2026, at 5:15 PM at the North Annex of the Clovis-Carver Library. The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call showed all commissioners present except Commissioner Zamora. The agenda and the July 23, 2026 minutes were approved unanimously. The meeting featured a proclamation honoring the Clovis Western Little League Intermediate All-Star Team for winning the 2026 New Mexico State Championship, public comments on pet cremation and water policy, approval of a consent agenda, a liquor license transfer, and appointment of citizen representatives to the Revenue Review Committee. Proclamation: 2026 Clovis Western Little League Day - Mayor Morris presented a proclamation declaring August 6, 2026 as "2026 Clovis Western Little League Day". The proclamation recognized the team's state championship victory (July 10–13 in Albuquerque) and the league's 70-year history. Coach Williams described the team's undefeated run through the state tournament and subsequent regional participation in Houston. Coach Dewey was recognized for 49 years of service to Clovis Little League. Commissioners praised the players and challenged them to thank their coaches and give back in the future. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Elliott (owner, Faithful Friends Pet Crematory) provided information on the environmental and public health benefits of cremating deceased animals rather than landfilling them. She noted that animal remains contribute bacteria, parasites, and disease-causing organisms (e.g., parvo) to landfill leachate, and attract scavengers. She offered to partner with the city at reduced rates for communal cremation of animals from Animal Control. No action was taken, as she was presenting information only. - Constance Williams (citizen) expressed disappointment that not all commissioners voted on a recent water discussion and urged the commission to bring the matter to a formal vote. She raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and emphasized the importance of a unified decision, especially given the city's 50-year water plan and property value impacts. She asked whether a path exists for re-discussion and a clear vote. Consent Calendar - Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Clovis Police Department and Clovis Municipal Schools – Approves assignment of a School Resource Officer and a Public Safety Aide to CMS campuses. Approved unanimously. - Change Order No. 1 for the Lyceum Theater with WWRC Construction – Approved unanimously. New Business - Liquor License Transfer – The commission held a public hearing and approved the transfer of Inter-Local Dispenser Type Liquor License No. DIS-000907 (with on-premises consumption and patio service) from BWC Investments LLC (doing business as The Oasis) to 10 Pennies LLC (doing business as Oasis Bar & Grill), located at 2208 N. Prince Street. The managing member, Steve Wright, was present. The application was published on July 8 and July 15 in the Eastern New Mexico News, and the hearing occurred within 45 days of receipt of preliminary approval letter from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. The motion carried unanimously. - Appointment of Citizen Representatives to the 2026 Revenue Review Committee – The commission approved the following appointments: District 1 – Paul Ellis, District 2 – Dr. Jonathan Fuentes, District 3 – Jacqueline Bonnie, District 4 – Diana Lochmiller. The motion carried unanimously. Reports of Boards, Officers, and Committees - Clovis-Carver Library Board (meeting July 26, 2026) – Assistant City Manager Burroughes reported that the summer reading program was well-attended and successful. The 2024 GO Bond funds ($129,000) will be released in November and must be used for patron resources (computers, printers, furniture). Library Director Hinchy presented the 2026–2029 strategic plan and the state library annual report. Commissioner Bryant directed staff to contact the state about possibly expanding GO bond uses beyond patron items; this may become a legislative priority. Key Outcomes - Proclamation declaring August 6, 2026 as Clovis Western Little League Day was presented. - Consent agenda (MOU with CMS, Lyceum Theater Change Order No. 1) approved unanimously. - Liquor license transfer to 10 Pennies LLC (Oasis Bar & Grill) approved unanimously after a public hearing. - Revenue Review Committee citizen representatives appointed unanimously. - Future agenda items noted: lodgers tax, library board vacancies, 2026 Yard of the Summer Awards, and Leanne's monthly investment report. - Upcoming meetings: Planning & Zoning Commission (Aug 12), Senior Services Committee (Aug 13), Parks, Recreation & Beautification Committee (Aug 17), Economic Incentive Board (Aug 19), BNSF Railway Improvement Study public meeting (Aug 19), next City Commission meeting (Aug 20).

The Parks, Recreation & Beautification Committee met on July 31, 2026, to discuss and act on several items, including naming the sand volleyball courts, a proposal to phase in port-o-lets to replace damaged restrooms, and to receive updates from the parks, recreation, and zoo departments. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the June 22, 2026, meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Christy Hill, a longtime friend of Tisha Brothers, spoke in favor of naming the sand volleyball courts after her, citing her decades of organizing volleyball leagues (women's, men's, co-ed, youth) and club teams. She noted the growth of the youth sand program from 47 to 100 participants. - Ruby Hester, a referee for 25 years, supported the naming, highlighting that the sand league now has 5 women's divisions with 41 teams and roughly 200 players. - Casey Jackson, a Melrose coach, praised Tisha Brothers for bringing together communities from Clovis, Melrose, Grady, and Texico through volleyball, and for creating a men's league that engages base personnel. Discussion Items - Naming Sand Volleyball Courts: The committee discussed a proposal to name the courts the "Tisha Brothers Volleyball Complex." Bobby Auckett presented plans for a donated metal sign (4 ft x 8 ft, 10-gauge steel, powder-coated, with volunteer construction and installation). Discussion included safety (rounding edges, preventing children from running under), maintenance (city would maintain but contact donor if irreparable), and foundation (concrete slab recommended). The committee voted unanimously to approve the naming. - Phasing in Port-o-Lets: Russell Hooper, Director of Parks and Recreation, presented a proposal to replace damaged restrooms with port-o-lets due to persistent vandalism. He cited $70,000 in recent stainless steel repairs at Hillcrest Park that were vandalized within a week. Cost estimates: $5,700 per unit per year for twice-weekly servicing (20 units = $114,000/year) or $170,000 for three-times-weekly servicing. The committee debated alternatives: Commissioner Porter opposed the idea, calling it a downgrade, and suggested cameras and hardening; Commissioner Perkins proposed flock cameras, better lighting, and anti-graffiti coatings. Commissioner Cass supported the idea for flexibility. No action was taken; the discussion was informational. - Parks Update: Russell Hooper reported that the fountain at Hillcrest Park has a shorted motor (covered under warranty) and is being returned for repair. Irrigation issues at Hillcrest are due to a shorted wire; repair expected soon. Staff is short-handed but maintaining fields. - Recreation Update: Amy Wyatt reported on the new "Slot Canyon" art installation (June 18), successful yoga program (growing from 16 to 23 participants), Zumba (15-20 per night), and pickleball usage. She announced open volleyball on Wednesday nights until September, and a new pickleball league starting after Labor Day. The aquatic center reopens July 31; Potter Park splash pad closes weekdays on August 3 and weekends on September 7. - Zoo Update: Stephanie Chavez reported on National Zookeeper Week, successful Giraffe and World Snake Day (500+ visitors, $5,000 revenue in two hours), and Christmas in July event (July 31–August 3, 7-10 PM). Two Fennec foxes from Ohio will arrive soon as ambassador animals. For the Good of the Order - Commissioner Cass raised concerns about racing and dangerous driving in the zoo parking lot at night. Staff are exploring camera technology and potential redesign of the parking lot through the zoo master plan. The public is encouraged to call the police when witnessing such activity. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes from June 22, 2026 (unanimous). - Approved naming the sand volleyball courts the "Tisha Brothers Volleyball Complex" (unanimous). - No action taken on the port-o-let proposal; discussion only. Staff will continue to explore options, including a restroom near the pickleball courts at Hillcrest Park. - Next meeting scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the North Annex.