Public Meetings - Los Alamos County, New Mexico

The Parks and Recreation Board of Los Alamos County met on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Room 110 at 1000 Central Avenue, with in-person and Zoom participation. The agenda included approval of prior minutes, a working group procedure discussion (tabled), a presentation on Canyon median design, staff reports on recent projects, and updates from Councilor Cull. Public comment was absent. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from July 9, 2026 meeting: A motion to approve the minutes as presented was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. (Note: The transcript initially references a July 8, 2026 meeting, but the agenda and subsequent motion specify July 9, 2026.) Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered in person or online. Discussion Items - Working Group Discussion (Item 22026‑26): Vice Chair Jerry Cowan explained that three working groups did not meet during the month, and the proposed procedural form for authorizing working groups had not been distributed to all board members. The board agreed to table the discussion to the next meeting; staff will email the form and provide an online version for feedback. - Canyon Median Design Presentation (Item 22031‑26): Wendy Parker presented two design templates for medians along Canyon Drive: the “Plateau” option and the “Bandelier” option. Both feature stamped concrete, rock landscaping, and a sloped curb design for vehicle safety. Trees will not be planted due to visibility, maintenance, and heat‑stress concerns. The selected template prioritizes low‑water landscaping, drainage, emergency access, and reduced long‑term maintenance. A public comment period (survey and in‑library) will launch in the next week to gather community input on the two designs. Final design, construction task order, and timeline will follow. - Staff Reports: - Katherine Hudspeth (Recreation): Reported a successful Los Alamos County Fair, Parade, and Rodeo: approximately 1,500 attendees for the first‑ever night rodeo on Saturday, and about 3,000 people at the parade and fair. The Aquatic Center pump‑and‑filtration room demolition has begun, and Pinyon Pool hours will decrease after Labor Day (lagoon: Mon‑Fri 9‑7, Sat 9‑5; Pinyon: Mon‑Fri 12‑6, closed Saturday). Golf course warranty work is nearly complete, with a grand reopening planned for September 12 (coupled with the 19th Hole Sports Pub). The Trans Rocky Mountain Bike Single Track event is set for September 19. - Wendy Parker (Parks): Updated on Sportsfield renovations: Bun Ryan field complete, Senior field active, Spirio field must be finished by September 5; limited team access after that. Brewery Arena grandstand foundation poured; restrooms (85‑90% complete) were available for the rodeo and received positive feedback. Upcoming FY27 projects: a Demo Garden ADA‑accessibility listening session on September 14 at the library; North Mesa Recreation Master Plan (bike park) design‑build procurement; Guahe Pines Columbariums Phase 1 (including ossuary, scattering garden, cenotaph) with community engagement – noted that the master plan is conceptual and tree canopy will be preserved where possible. - Council Communications – Councilor Cull: Provided highlights from recent county council meetings: a climate action plan update; introduction of ordinances for gas service rates and the LEDA project at the ROC (former Time Out Pizza in White Rock), with public hearings August 25; the plastic bag ban failed on a 3‑3 vote (needed 4); approved a 7‑year tree‑trimming service agreement, changes to Article 5 of the development code, mechanical improvements for the Olympic pool, and a letter opposing reduction of the CHOPCO Cultural National Historic Park; a work session reviewed the community dashboard and comprehensive plan update; and an agreement with NMDOT for the Crossing and Multi‑Use Trail Improvement Project in White Rock was approved. Key Outcomes - The minutes of July 9, 2026 (with the noted date discrepancy) were approved unanimously. - The working group procedure discussion was tabled to the September 10, 2026 meeting; the form will be distributed before then. - The Canyon median design presentation was received; a public comment period will open shortly, and final design and construction scheduling will occur afterward. - Staff reports were accepted as information; no formal board action was taken. - The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 10, 2026, and will include the working group discussion.

The Los Alamos County Planning and Zoning Commission met on August 12, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers. The single major agenda item was a public hearing on a site plan adoption for a new Christus Health medical facility. The Commission also approved the previous meeting's minutes and received departmental and council liaison updates. All votes were conducted with a quorum present. Consent Calendar - Approval of July 22, 2026, Meeting Minutes: After a minor amendment correcting a commissioner comment from "BPU is great" to "BPU annual presentation was great," the minutes were approved by a roll call vote of 7-0 (Commissioners Easton, Hampton, Chrien, Brown, Best, Bruell, Grimm in favor; Nelson and White absent). Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment: No comments were offered during the public comment period at the beginning of the meeting. - Christus Health Public Hearing: Two community members testified in support of the project: - Barbara Phelps (705 Caminos Reyesa), member of the Los Alamos County Health Council and Christus Foundation board, spoke in favor, stating the facility will help the community achieve more local healthcare and bring additional resources. - Andy Phelps (same address), a homeowner, business owner, and civil engineer, expressed strong support, calling the project "greater impact to our community than about anything I've seen" and urged the Commission to "lean forward" to facilitate approval. Discussion Items - Christus Health Site Plan Adoption (SIT-2026-0083): The applicant, Christus Health, requested approval of a site plan for a 37,277-square-foot, two-story medical facility on ±1.64 acres at 401 Trinity Drive (zoned General Commercial). The project includes a 10-bed emergency department, diagnostic imaging, surgical and procedural spaces, inpatient rooms, and laboratory/pharmacy services. The applicant initially calculated 55 required parking spaces (later revised to 57 provided, still meeting the requirement). Staff recommended conditional approval subject to five conditions: (1) revise utility drawings to DPU standards; (2) address Fire Marshal requirements; (3) submit a corrected parking analysis before building permits; (4) submit a drainage assessment with 100-year storm calculations before building permits; (5) obtain all NMDOT and County permits for off-site improvements (including a right-turn deceleration lane, sidewalk, and right-of-way dedication) and submit a final Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) approved by both NMDOT and the County. The applicant's representative, Eric Cornelius (Santa Fe Engineering), confirmed they had already coordinated with the Fire Marshal and changed the bicycle lane to a multi-use path. He also noted the application had previously stated 25,000 square feet in the legal notice, but the agenda and staff report consistently described 37,277 square feet. Commissioners questioned the applicant on transportation route diversity and parking calculations. No other parties spoke against the project. - Commission/Director Communications: - Department Report: Planning Manager Danyelle Valdez noted the Comprehensive Plan presentation is scheduled for August 19, 2026, and the second public survey remains open for a few more weeks. - Chair's Report: Chair Easton announced she would be unavailable until August 10, 2026; Vice Chair Hampton to handle inquiries. She welcomed new Commissioner Best. - Council Liaison Report: Councilor Suzie Havemann provided updates from the August 4 County Council work session, including a quarterly climate action plan update, an ordinance on utility natural gas rates (technical correction), an economic development project for "The ROC" in White Rock, a $230 million workforce housing revenue bond for Coyote Mesa, and a discussion on a proposed single-use plastic bag ban that failed on a 3-3 vote. - Commissioners' Comments: No additional comments. Key Outcomes - Conditional Approval of Christus Health Site Plan: Commissioner Easton moved to approve Case SIT-2026-0083 with the five conditions as amended (condition 5 modified to include TIA submission and NMDOT approval before building permits). The motion was seconded and passed unanimously on a roll call vote of 7-0 (Commissioners Easton, Hampton, Chrien, Brown, Best, Bruell, Grimm voting yes; Commissioners Nelson and White absent). The Commission authorized the Chair to sign the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law. - Appeal Information: The ruling may be appealed within 15 calendar days by the applicant or affected parties as defined in Section 16-72(g)(5)(a) of the Development Code.

The Art in Public Places Advisory Board held a special meeting on August 10, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 5:32 PM. The sole agenda item was a recommendation to approve expenditures for a public art archive web-based solution with Creative West. The board unanimously voted to recommend that the County Council approve the funds. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received. Discussion Items - The board considered a recommendation to approve $12,708.33 in previously expended Art in Public Places funds related to prior agreement AGR21-13 and June 2026 services, and to authorize a full $39,180 plus applicable Gross Receipts Tax for a new agreement AGR26-27 with Creative West for the Public Art Archive Web Based Solution. Chair Foley noted the board was familiar with the item and a motion was made and seconded. Key Outcomes - The board voted unanimously to recommend that the County Council approve the expenditures as described. The motion carried without dissent.

The Los Alamos County Health Council met on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 12:00 PM in a hybrid format (Municipal Building Room 100 and Zoom). The meeting featured a presentation from Nick Boukas, Director of New Mexico's Behavioral Health Services Division, and updates from staff on ongoing initiatives. New council members were introduced. Consent Calendar - Call to Order at 12:00 PM by Chair Lisa Hampton. - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved as presented with a recommendation to move a presentation by intern Evelyn Drake to a later date. - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the June 4, 2026 meeting were approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Silva (JJAB Prevention Specialist, Los Alamos Public Schools) expressed appreciation to New Mexico Behavioral Health Services for their investment and funding. Discussion Items - Presentation by Nick Boukas, Director of New Mexico's Behavioral Health Services Division - Announced a new evidence-based mental health app for youth ages 13-18, free and vetted, to be released on Apple and Google Play stores. - Described Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs): closest to Los Alamos is in Española (run by Presbyterian Medical Services), offering 24/7 mobile crisis teams accessible via 988. These teams staffed by behavioral health professionals, not law enforcement, to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits. - Offered free programs to Los Alamos: PAX Good Behavior Game training, Yellow Ribbon campaign, Mental Health First Aid for school staff, and Narcan training and kits (15-minute training, free, no ID required). - Provided statistics: In the past 1.5 years, Los Alamos County trained 107 people and distributed 617 Narcan doses; Rio Arriba County trained over 8,000 and gave away thousands of doses. Youth suicide attempt rate (10th grade, self-reported, 2024 data) in Los Alamos: 6.8%; state average: 8.4%. - Urged the council to help break the stigma around mental health and take advantage of free resources. - Council members asked questions: - Councillor Riedel asked about inpatient bed availability for youth. Boukas noted Haven Behavioral Health in Española and recommended using 988 for real-time bed location; a new closed-loop referral system RFP is forthcoming. - Councillor Williams asked about resources for LGBTQIA+ youth. Boukas stated 988 call centers receive mandatory training for LGBTQI+ individuals; additional resources exist in Taos, Santa Fe, and Albuquerque. Cultural competence is required for all Medicaid-enrolled providers. - Councillor Granville asked about affordable and transitional housing. Boukas described programs like Fresh Start Rental Assistance (up to 9 months of rent) and Linkages, but noted a shortage of enrolled landlords. The state is working on housing affordability incentives. - Councillor Williams asked if domestic violence services fall under behavioral health. Boukas said yes, and there are specific programs through CYFD and others. - Councillor Hand (online) asked about the barrier of Department of Energy security clearances at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Boukas acknowledged the challenge but emphasized starting with school-based trainings as a low-stigma entry point. - Sylvia Deal (JJAB Prevention Specialist from the audience) thanked Boukas for funding that brought the PAX Good Behavior Game to the community and asked how to bring a CCBHC to Los Alamos. Boukas suggested engaging providers and the Chamber of Commerce to assess sustainability, noting that underreported numbers may deter providers. - Staff Report by Jessica Strong - Intern Evelyn Drake’s presentation postponed to September or October 2026; Drake will continue through the school year. - Introduced Aylin Meza, the new Social Service Case Coordinator (started three weeks prior), trained in trauma-informed care, SBIRT, and fluent in Spanish. - Outreach Specialist Jamie Allbach is organizing a series of trainings: opioid overdose response, Narcan distribution (available at libraries, visitor centers, transportation, schools), and upcoming sessions for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month (September) and Mental Health Awareness Month (October). - Future Health Council meetings will feature speakers on domestic violence and food insecurity in Los Alamos. - Annual planning to begin in December, updating the Comprehensive Health Plan and action items. - Social Services is collaborating with the courts on criminal justice/reentry efforts. - First kickoff meeting held for the Behavioral Health Regional Investment Act (Senate Bill 3) in Region One (Los Alamos, Rio Arriba, Santa Fe) to address transportation gaps to CCBHCs. Key Outcomes - The agenda and minutes were approved unanimously. - The presentation by Nick Boukas was received and will inform future collaborations. - Intern Evelyn Drake’s report was postponed to a later meeting. - New council members introduced themselves: Matthew McCleary (affordable housing), Joseph Granville (affordable housing, mental health), Susan Williams (early childhood, elderly, domestic violence), Stacy Frers (older adult population), and others. Vice-Chair Marna Riedel (hospital patient gaps) and existing members Elizabeth Ibañez (first responders, transition services), Joyce Richins (infection prevention), and Cecile Hemez (public health) also participated. - The meeting adjourned early, ahead of schedule.

The Los Alamos Transportation Board convened on August 6, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the County Council Chambers. Chair David Hampton presided. The meeting focused on updates for several public works projects, a report from the County Council liaison, and discussions on traffic safety, transit, and bicycle infrastructure. No formal votes were taken beyond the approval of minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – The board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 4, 2026 and June 22, 2026 meetings. Discussion Items - Update on Public Works Projects – Eric Martinez, Public Works Director, presented a project update on behalf of Deputy Director Keith Wilson. Key projects highlighted include: - NM 502 Rumble Strips (completed May 2026) - Denver Steels Phase II (fully complete) - Trinity Drive Safety and ADA Improvements (construction began July 21, 2026; completion expected January 2027) - Ashley Pond Park Safety Improvements (Concept 3 approved by Council; moving into design) - Finch Street Extension (construction started July 13; completion December 2026) - NM-4 Crossing and Multi‑Use Trail (awaiting construction funding; bid advertisement September 2026) - Grand Canyon Slurry Seal (completed July 31) - Various pedestrian crossing improvements along Central Avenue (crosswalk installations underway) - Traffic calming and bulb‑out installations on Grand Canyon (awaiting quick‑curb materials) - LIDAR safety data collection collaboration with University of Nevada, Reno (presentation scheduled for September board meeting) - Traffic and Transit Concerns – Board Member Paul Lisowski raised questions about roundabout capacity on North Mesa Road due to new development. Eric Ulibarri, County Engineer, responded that a traffic study found adequate capacity. Lisowski also asked about bus service to White Rock; Martinez noted ongoing hiring challenges but reported no recent driver losses and mentioned a transit study (due in October/November) to explore weekend and on‑demand service. - Wildlife Warning Systems – Board Member Karen Edwards asked about using LIDAR instead of cameras for wildlife‑activated warning signs. Martinez replied that multiple technologies are being researched. - Bicycle Infrastructure – Board Member Hermann Gepphert‑Kleinrath expressed concern that bike lanes on Trinity Drive and elsewhere lack physical separation, citing a personal near‑miss with a turning truck. He advocated for quick‑curb barriers and noted that continuous bike lane lines should prevent cars from using them as turn lanes, but enforcement remains an issue. - County Council Liaison Report – Councilor Suzie Havemann reported on recent Council actions: - A proposed plastic bag ban failed on a 3‑3 tie vote. - A $230 million revenue bond was issued for workforce housing (Coyote Mesa). - Progress on the Climate Action Plan, including an upcoming RFP for countywide composting. - Planning and Zoning approved a site plan for the CB Fox redevelopment and a conditional use for a parking lot/food truck site on Diamond Drive (variance for tree buffer was denied). - School release times for Fridays changed to one hour earlier, affecting transit schedules. Key Outcomes - Meeting was informational; no motions or votes were taken beyond the consent agenda. - Upcoming presentations: Fairway Drive project (September) and LIDAR technology (September). - Staff noted the retirement of Signs & Markings Tech Anthony Jaramillo and welcomed new hires Ben Gonzalez and Brian Romero (Engineering) and Seth Drop (Traffic Electrician).

The Historic Preservation Advisory Board met in person on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 5:41 p.m. at 1000 Central Avenue, Room 110, Los Alamos, New Mexico. With Chair Patrick Cruz absent, Member Carrie Gregory presided; members Rachel Adler and newly appointed Irene Powell also attended. The board approved its agenda and the June 10, 2026 minutes, then conducted a mid-year review of the 2026 board work plan, emphasizing historic-preservation staffing needs and county processes. No public comment was offered. Consent Calendar - The board approved the August 5, 2026 agenda by unanimous voice vote. - The board approved the June 10, 2026 meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered for items not on the agenda; no members of the public attended. Discussion Items - 2026 Work Plan Mid-Year Review: Acting Chair Gregory presented the plan, which was approved in February. She noted that Chair Cruz and she had prepared goals, strategies, and schedules in April in response to a Council request for stronger work-plan accountability. Because of canceled meetings, snow days, and unfilled board seats, the board was behind schedule and would likely not complete the full plan by December. - The board reviewed nine goals. Acting Chair Gregory described the laboratory's approximately 2,000 archaeological sites and 260 historic facilities, and said the county has even more, supporting the board's long-standing recommendation for a county cultural resources specialist, either on staff or under contract. - Goal 5 – Cultural Resources Specialist: The board discussed researching federal and state grants, particularly through New Mexico's Certified Local Government (CLG) program, and reviewing New Mexico Administrative Code 10.10.19G to build a justification for hiring or contracting a cultural resources specialist. Members discussed whether federal grants could fund such a position; Rachel Adler noted that federal cultural-resources grants are limited and more often support defined projects, while Carrie Gregory indicated the county had previously said there was no budget for a staff position. - Goal 7 – County Historic-Property Processes: Members discussed uncertainty about how the county identifies historic properties, assesses impacts, and communicates with the New Mexico State Historic Preservation Officer. They agreed that the county may have people filling cultural-resources roles without the formal title, and that understanding these roles is important before making a case for additional help. - Goal 6 – Community Outreach: The board discussed outreach tools such as banners and materials, following Chair Cruz's experience at the Spring Arts and Crafts Fair. Members leaned toward deferring formal outreach planning to the 2027 work plan, partly because the Historic Preservation Master Plan may inform future communication strategies. - Goal 8 – Historic Preservation Month: This goal was considered complete for 2026, with participation in the Spring Arts and Crafts Fair and a master plan public meeting. - Goal 9 – Attendance at Other County Boards: Members supported continued voluntary attendance at Planning and Zoning, Art in Public Places, and Parks and Recreation meetings to share information. - Priority Setting: Members agreed to concentrate remaining 2026 effort on Goals 5 and 7, treating Goal 6 outreach as a 2027 work-plan item. Staff indicated that the Historic Preservation Master Plan consultant expects to have a first draft ready for presentation in October. - Staff/Informational Update: Acting Chair Gregory raised proposed federal changes to 36 CFR Part 800, the Section 106 rules of the National Historic Preservation Act. She stated that the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation had approved moving the rules forward and that the changes would remove ethnographic landscapes from historic-property consideration, remove setting/cumulative/future effects from adverse-effect analysis, largely remove state and tribal historic preservation officers from the process, and eliminate public participation. She called the changes disheartening and said they would change historic preservation practice nationwide if adopted. - Council Liaison Update: Council Liaison Theresa Cull reported on recent Council matters, including a quarterly climate action plan update, EV charger pricing questions, a request for Inclusivity Board members, a letter regarding Chaco, minor Chapter 16 code amendments, and an upcoming agenda discussion about the Historic Preservation Master Plan presentation. Key Outcomes - The board did not take a formal vote on the work plan itself; it directed its remaining 2026 work-plan energy to Goal 5 (cultural resources specialist grant research and justification) and Goal 7 (understanding county historic-property processes), with Goal 6 carried toward the 2027 work plan. - Action items: Acting Chair Gregory will ask Danyelle Valdez about existing county cultural-resources staff, roles, and contractors, and whether the county would consider an internship or shared position; Gregory will distribute the member handbook, CLG manual, and compiled grant information to board members; all members will independently review the CLG program manual before the September meeting; Gregory will brief Chair Cruz on the discussion. - The next regular meeting was scheduled for September 2, 2026, with plans to discuss CLG findings and the cultural-resources-specialist role. The meeting was adjourned.

Summary The Board of Public Utilities (BPU) held a work session on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, from 5:30 PM to approximately 9:30 PM. The meeting included a detailed presentation on pathways to zero natural gas usage, a public hearing on a corrected water rate ordinance, status updates on the Electric Coordination Agreement (ECA) and plug-in solar policy, and the annual wastewater systems update. Remaining business items were postponed to a future meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (start of meeting): No public comments were made. - Public Comment on Natural Gas Study: Former BPU member Dave (1732 Ponderosa Street) shared his experience living in a 1960s home with a 30-year-old gas furnace. He cited high upfront costs ($20,000–$25,000 to go all-electric), concerns about electric grid reliability in winter, and the need for a decision within the next year. - Public Comment on Water Rates: None. - Public Comment on Plug-In Solar: None. - Public Comment at End of Meeting: None. Presentations and Discussion Items Pathways to Zero Natural Gas Usage – UNM & NMSU Study Professor Yu Ting Yang and her team presented findings from a year-long study commissioned by the utility. Key findings: - Household willingness: 96% of households still use natural gas; 88% are satisfied with gas appliances; 75% have no current plan to switch. - Barriers: Upfront costs and electric panel upgrades (needed in 75% of homes, costing $2,000–$8,000) are the largest barriers. - Choice experiment results: Households value efficiency gains and bill savings more than carbon reductions when considering electrification. A 10% increase in appliance efficiency equates to willingness to pay $20/month; a 50% carbon reduction equates to $75/month. - Solar rebound effect: After installing solar, grid purchases drop 21% but total electricity use rises 19% (largest in winter, +65% across whole day). Actual carbon reduction is 1 ton/year versus an engineering estimate of 3.9 tons – a 75% offset. - Load projections: Achieving zero natural gas by 2070 would increase electricity demand by 61% (from 62 GWh to 100 GWh), with a sharp winter peak. Solar adoption at 40% of homes would only trim grid load by 5%. - Policy implications: Near-term focus on panel upgrades, information outreach emphasizing savings and performance, and targeting homes with aging equipment (1/3 of systems are 20 years old). Board members asked detailed questions about efficiency definitions, model stability (appendix figures C.4/C.5), the rebound effect vs. weather correlation, and the need for integrated gas‑electric pricing models. The team acknowledged limitations (no EV data, no climate change projections) and offered to revisit the study in 5–10 years. Water Rate Ordinance (Public Hearing) Deputy Utility Manager Joann Gentry presented a corrected ordinance (No. 02-387) to amend water service rate schedules. The correction only changed effective dates after an administrative error; no rate changes were made (the 8% increase and other adjustments remain as approved in April/June 2026). The ordinance was introduced without objection. Board members noted the heavy work required to correct the record. Electric Coordination Agreement (ECA) Update Ben Olbrich reported ongoing negotiations with DOE/NSA. The main issue is the "termination for convenience" clause, which limits termination payment to the current contract allotment ($6 million vs. $424 million total value). County and DOE attorneys are working on options. Other issues include a short 30‑day extension notification period (to be mitigated by adjusting operating committee procedures to plan 3 years ahead), fixed costs for the combustion turbine generator (unchanged from 2023), exhibit G reporting (minimal effort, no cost allocation issue), and EDAM market cost flexibility. Staff will bring a revised ECA for approval at the August 19 BPU meeting. Future Plug-In Solar Policy Ben Olbrich presented four interconnection options and three export credit approaches. He recommended: (1) no interconnection agreement/registration for plug-in photovoltaic (PIPV) systems, (2) no credit for exported energy, and (3) proactive public education on safety and risks. Board members largely agreed, with comments to monitor state legislation (SB 157 introduced in NM) and to include a disclaimer that policy may change as technology and regulatory environments evolve. No formal action was taken; staff will draft documents based on board input. Annual Wastewater Systems Update Clay Moseley provided an update on the wastewater collection and treatment systems: - Collection system: 32,000 LF of vitrified clay pipe (VCP) in townsite and White Rock aging and failing. Priority is replacing VCP with PVC/PE. 25 lift stations mostly upgraded. New SCADA and sonic detection tools improving efficiency. Nighttime flushing operations implemented. - Treatment plants: Los Alamos plant (online 2007) undergoing phased upgrades (blowers, SCADA, fine screen rebuild in-house saved $445,000). White Rock plant (new) experiencing a corrosion issue in sludge basin mixing pumps – stray current suspected, consultant engaged. Both plants produce high-quality Class 1A effluent. Staffing is adequate but could use more for collections. - Future focus: Shift capital projects from lift stations to pipe replacement. Aggressive internal training and apprenticeship programs underway. Board members asked about stormwater separation (confirming no combined system) and staffing needs. Staff noted the aggressive pipe replacement program should reduce overflows and workload over time. Postponed Items The following items were postponed to future meetings due to time constraints: - 6.d. Transactional Survey Report (January–June 2026) - 6.e. Annual Review of BPU Procedural Rules - 6.f. Open Meetings Act and Inspection of Public Records Presentation Key Outcomes - Agenda approved (4-0). - Water rate ordinance introduced (no vote required; will return for adoption). - ECA update received; staff will return on August 19 with revised language for board recommendation to council. - Plug-in solar policy direction: Board consensus aligns with staff recommendations (no registration, no export credit, public education). Staff to prepare documents. - Wastewater annual update accepted; staff encouraged to continue in‑house projects and training. - Remaining business items (transactional survey, procedural rules, OMA training) postponed to next work session. Next regular meeting: August 19, 2026 (consideration of ECA and possibly postponed items).

The Los Alamos County Council met in regular session on August 4, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, 1000 Central Avenue, with six of seven councilors present (Councilor Hand excused). The meeting covered the Quarterly Climate Action Plan update, introduction of two ordinances, a public hearing on workforce housing bonds, a discussion on a proposed plastic bag ban, and other council business. Key actions included approval of consent agenda items, introduction of a gas rate increase ordinance and an economic development project ordinance, adoption of a resolution supporting workforce housing bonds, and rejection of a motion to advance a single-use plastic bag ordinance. Consent Calendar - Task Order No. 5, Revision 2 (Lloyd and Associates) – $174,616 plus GRT for incorporating specialized technology, furniture, equipment, and sustainability features into EOC construction documents at Fire Station 3. Approved unanimously. - Revised FY2027 Equipment Replacement Schedule – Replacing a forklift with a telehandler and moving a transit bus to FY2027. Approved unanimously. - Art in Public Places Fund Expenditure – Up to $75,000 plus GRT to commission artist Daniel Borup for a lion sculpture at the Police Station, as recommended by the Art in Public Places Board. Approved unanimously. - E911 Grant Agreement – $757,179 from the Department of Finance and Administration for FY2027, plus Budget Revision 2027-06. Approved unanimously. - HPE Cohesity Software Renewal – Adjustment to Purchase Order No. 91298 for three-year renewal at $403,706.31 plus GRT. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Lare Mitchell requested changes to street light timing to reduce idling and emissions. - Scott (public comment on Climate Action Plan) urged lower EV charging rates and better charger placement; also advocated for plastic bag recycling education rather than a ban. - Janice? (unclear name) asked about deer feeding ordinance and expressed concern that composting may attract bears. - Crystal Cheney (on EV chargers) noted that charging rates are too high, reducing utilization. - Philip Gerski (online) cautioned that increased construction costs from green codes could hinder affordable housing. - Stephanie Knopke (online) argued that higher upfront costs could push development outside the county, increasing vehicle miles traveled and emissions. - Joyce Anderson (on plastic bag ban) thanked the Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) for its recommendation and urged the Council to reject a ban, emphasizing personal choice. - Sue Barnes (on plastic bag ban) cited lifecycle analysis and potential environmental harm from alternatives, asking the Council to let the matter go. - Jody Benson (on plastic bag ban) urged the Council to adopt an ordinance, stating it is a low-cost, low-effort step supported by science. - Lisa Shin (on plastic bag ban) argued the ban would increase costs for residents and businesses and encourage online shopping. - Linda Daly (online, on plastic bag ban) expressed support, noting widespread adoption elsewhere and environmental benefits. Discussion Items - Quarterly Climate Action Plan Implementation Update (Angelica Gurule, Sustainability Manager): Presented progress on 13 climate actions (1 completed, 5 ongoing, 4 in progress, 3 upcoming). Highlights: 5 EVs added in FY26, 2-4 planned in FY27; Foxtail Flats solar/battery project under construction; EV charger utilization increasing but operating at a loss; food composting RFP being finalized; green building standards recommended to let base codes (2021 IECC) do the heavy lifting rather than adopting reach codes. Council discussed costs of achieving carbon neutrality, EV charger pricing, commuter trip reduction, and cooling centers. - Eli Isaacson, Community Development Director (on green building): Presented analysis showing base codes have improved efficiency 40% since 2006; recommended education and incentives over mandates. Council discussed lifecycle costs, incentives, and state adoption of 2024 codes. - Gas Rate Increase Ordinance (Introduction) – Ordinance No. 02-385 proposes a single rate adjustment (rather than a multi-year step increase) for natural gas. The fixed cost recovery charge would rise from $0.34/therm to $0.48/therm; service charges increase slightly. A public hearing is set for August 25, 2026. - Economic Development Project for VE Holdings (Introduction) – Ordinance No. 760 proposes a $868,000 zero-interest LEDA loan to redevelop the former Time Out Pizza building in White Rock into a sports bar, frozen yogurt shop, laundromat, EV charging stations, and food truck pads. Loan terms: 10-year, 24-month deferral, then $9,041.67/month. Public hearing set for August 25, 2026. - Workforce Housing Revenue Bonds (Public Hearing) – Resolution No. 26-17 approves issuance of up to $230 million in tax-exempt bonds for the Coyote Mesa project (380 workforce housing units). Bonds are not a debt of the county. Approved unanimously. - Proposed Single-Use Plastic Bag Ordinance – ESB Chair David Hampton reported that the board voted 6-0 to recommend against adopting the ordinance, citing public opposition (66% opposed in community feedback), potential environmental trade-offs, and better focus on CAP goals. Council debated; Councilor Havemann moved to direct staff to bring back a revised ordinance with amendments (remove

The Los Alamos County Council met in regular session on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 (2026-07-28 13:00:00+00:00; noticed for 6:00 PM) in Council Chambers at 1000 Central Avenue, with virtual participation via Zoom. The Council approved the consent agenda, adopted two public-hearing items, approved an Olympic Pool contract amendment, and voted to send a letter opposing revocation or reduction of the Chaco Culture National Historical Park buffer. The closed-session statement reported that the closed session began at 5:00 PM, was limited to noticed topics, and no action was taken. Consent Calendar - Adopted by a single 6-0 motion. No items were withdrawn; staff answered questions on the Bonfire broadband amendments and LSP Data Solutions. Approved items included: - Minutes of July 7, 2026 regular session and July 14, 2026 work session. - Modification 27 to the Electric Coordination Agreement with DOE/NNSA, extending the term to August 31, 2026. - Amendment No. 1 to the 19th Hole Sports Pub lease clarifying use of County liquor license GOV-000046 for beverage-cart service. - Task Order No. 4 (Amendment 2) with Wilson & Company, $164,306.18, for remaining engineering services for the Jemez Mountain Regional Fire Protection System. - Amendments with Bonfire Engineering & Construction LLC moving service-connection drops ($6,216,126.12) from the design-build agreement to the network operations agreement, with no net cost increase. - Amendment No. 3 with LSP Data Solutions increasing the not-to-exceed amount by $216,000 to $938,000 and extending e-discovery/IPRA services through December 12, 2027. - Power Purchase Agreement authority not to exceed $9,195,750 plus GRT for August/September 2026 power supply. - Award of IFB26-58 to AUI, Inc. for Los Alamos Switching Station cured-in-place piping: $849,570 plus $169,914 contingency, total $1,019,484, with Budget Revision 2027-02. - Appointment of Joseph Granville to the Los Alamos County Health Council for a term ending July 28, 2028. - Acceptance of land dedication/transfer at 400 Trinity Drive within the Grand Mesa Partners lot line adjustment. - Approval of the June 30, 2026 quarterly financial report to the NM Department of Finance and Administration. - Seven-year, $1,000,000 tree-trimming services agreement with Southwest Fire Defense, LLC. - Task Order No. 10 with Transmission & Distribution Services, LLC, $157,262, for White Rock Substation relay settings and controls, with Budget Revision 2027-03. Public Comments & Testimony - No comments were made during the opening public-comment period. - On the Guest House LEDA/MRA presentation, Jason Chappell asked how the nearly $4 million public investment would be measured, emphasizing public benefit, jobs, wages, community event space, and taxpayer protections. Lisa Shin questioned the return on investment, cited state data that nearly one-third of LEDA recipients miss job-creation targets, and asked about budget caps, competition with local businesses, and clawback protections. - During the intergovernmental update, Maire O’Neill requested that the detailed regional partnership information be made more publicly accessible. - On the Chaco letter item, Chris Luchini urged the Council to research the actual impact of the proposed revocation before acting, stating the 10-to-5-mile area has no forecast oil/gas potential and the action may be largely performative. Discussion Items - Bear Month Proclamation (Item 6A): Council proclaimed August 2026 as Bear Month in Los Alamos County. Pajarito Environmental Education Center representatives accepted the proclamation and noted the August 29 Bear Festival at the Los Alamos Nature Center, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Guest House Project LEDA/MRA (Item 6B): Staff and developer Tucker Sharp (Grand Mesa Partners 400 Trinity Drive Hilltop Owners, LLC) presented a proposed 60-key extended-stay hotel at 400 Trinity Drive, targeting LANL staff, interns, postdocs, researchers, and tourists. The requested County participation is $3,875,000: $1,000,000 zero-interest loan, $2,000,000 LEDA grant, and $875,000 MRA grant. The staff report estimates construction cost at more than $11 million, while the developer’s presentation cited a total project budget over $30 million. Staff report estimates 3 new FTEs; the developer estimated about 4 full-time operations jobs. No action was taken; the ordinance introduction is anticipated August 7 or 11, 2026, with a public hearing August 25 or September 8, 2026. - FY2026 Q4 Financial and Investment Briefing (Item 6C): CFO Melissa Dadzie and investment advisor Deanne Woodring presented the unaudited fourth-quarter report. GPA-managed pooled investments returned 3.07% versus a 2.97% benchmark; FY26 earnings were approximately $6.793 million, compared with $6.334 million ex-SIC the prior year. Liquidity rates moderated from 3.55% to 3.22%, while investment earnings rose from 3.70% to 3.92%. GRT improved about 5% over FY25 but finished about 2% under the FY26 budget; FY27 GRT is projected to grow about 22% with the new GRT increment. - Quarterly Intergovernmental and Regional Update (Item 6D): Danielle Duran reported regional strategic fund allocations: Rio Arriba County $5,000,000 (reimbursed $841,296), City of Española $3,075,000 (reimbursed $2,126,964), and Pueblo de San Ildefonso broadband $2,000,000 (reimbursed $500,000). She also discussed landfill feasibility, behavioral health plans, state/federal water-well funding possibilities, and tribal relations. Public Hearings - Ordinance No. 02-371 (Development Code Article V update): The Council held a public hearing and adopted, 6-0, the code amendment making administrative, procedural, and enforcement corrections to Chapter 16, Article V. Changes include extending notice from 14 to 15 calendar days, requiring applicants to conduct and document neighborhood meetings, codifying quasi-judicial hearing procedures, extending certain decision deadlines to 60 days, clarifying dust-control language, and referencing the general penalty provision. The Planning & Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval with four revisions, all incorporated. - Resolution No. 26-16 (Voter Convenience Center relocation): The Council adopted, 6-0, the resolution temporarily moving the consolidated Precincts 17-23 Voter Convenience Center from Betty Ehart Senior Center to Mesa Public Library for the November 3, 2026 General Election because of renovations. The relocation is contingent on District Court approval; other VCC locations remain unchanged. Business - Lee-Sure Pools Amendment No. 1 (Olympic Pool mechanical improvements): The Council approved, 6-0, Amendment No. 1 to AGR25-922 in the amount of $1,179,113.46 plus GRT, establishing a revised project budget of $3,300,000 and approving Budget Revision 2027-04 funded by MFM funds and CIP savings. The project replaces 38-year-old Olympic Pool pumps, reconfigures filtration/plumbing for redundancy, reseals the surge tank, and is scheduled for completion so the pool can resume operations in November 2026. Council Business - Chaco Culture National Historical Park letter: By a 4-2 vote, the Council authorized sending a letter to the Secretary of the Interior opposing revocation or reduction of Public Land Order No. 7923, which protects approximately 336,404 acres around Chaco Canyon. Councilors Reagor and Hand voted no. The BLM comment period closed July 29, 2026. - County Manager’s Report and Chair’s Report: The June 2026 report was presented with no action; the Chair highlighted upcoming agenda items, including the plastic bag ordinance, utility rates, LEDA/MRA actions, and an August 27 town hall on police license-plate-reader technology. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda 6-0. - Adopted Ordinance No. 02-371 6-0. - Adopted Resolution No. 26-16 6-0. - Approved Lee-Sure Pools Amendment No. 1 and Budget Revision 2027-04 6-0. - Approved Chaco letter motion 4-2. - Next steps: Guest House ordinance introduction Aug 7/11 and public hearing Aug 25/Sep 8, 2026; continued reports on development code, budget, and regional partnerships.