Public Meetings - Los Alamos County, New Mexico

On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the Los Alamos Transportation Board met at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers (1000 Central Avenue) with a hybrid Zoom option. Chair David Hampton presided. The board received a comprehensive traffic safety update, a Bike Month presentation, a county budget overview from the Council Liaison, and a staff report. The meeting lasted approximately two hours. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Unanimously approved. - Approval of Minutes (March 5, 2026): Unanimously approved. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments during the designated public comment period. Discussion was limited to board members and staff. Discussion Items Traffic Safety Update (Presenters: Deputy Public Works Director Keith Wilson and Police Chief Scambalone) - Crash Data (2019–2025): Eight fatalities, 250 injury crashes, 640 property-damage-only crashes, totaling 900 crashes. Eight pedestrian crashes (two fatal, six injury) and 26 bicycle crashes (25 injury, one property damage) in that period. Five-year averages: 1.1 fatalities/year, 35.6 injury crashes/year, 90 property damage crashes/year, 0.2 pedestrian fatalities/year, 1 pedestrian injury crash/year, 4.2 bicycle crashes/year. Compared to state averages (per 1,000 population), Los Alamos rates are about one-third for overall crashes, one-fifth for pedestrian fatalities, but slightly above the state average for bicycle injury crashes. - Fatalities and Bicycle Crashes: Fatalities occurred at scattered locations (White Rock, town site, truck route, Diamond Drive). Bicycle crashes concentrated downtown and on main corridors, especially the Diamond/Orange/Sandia intersection. - Wildlife Crashes: 102 wildlife-involved crashes in 2024, 63 in 2025, and 22 in early 2026. Concentrated on Iron Drive. - Projects and Countermeasures: - Trinity Drive Safety and ADA Improvement Project (Connie to Oppenheimer): Bids received; council award expected May 19; construction June–December 2026. Road diet (westbound reduced from two lanes to one), bike lanes, sidewalk improvements, pedestrian crossing at 20th Street with rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) on mast arms. - Ashley Pond Crowd Protection: Temporary concrete barriers to be placed May 16 for summer concerts; permanent option being designed by Groundwork Studio (landscape architect) with public engagement and historic preservation review; aim for installation by 2027 concert season. - NM4 Crossing and Multi-Use Trail (La Vista to Sherwood): Final design approval with NMDOT imminent; bid in June; award in July/August; construction through mid-2027. Will include a pedestrian hybrid beacon (HAWK) and trail connecting Mirador to Pinon Elementary. - Diamond Drive Wildlife Crash Study: Wildlife assessment contract starting May 2026; evaluating lighting (solar options $600,000), AI-based flashing signage, and speed data collection. - NM 502 Corridor (county line to Airport Road): Road safety audit completed; striping improvements at Camino Entrada implemented fall 2025; centerline rumble strips scheduled May–June 2026. - Diamond Drive at Sycamore: Pedestrian crossing analysis underway (data collected last week); staff to return with recommendation on potential pedestrian hybrid beacon. - Central Avenue Pedestrian Crossings (15th to Justice Center): Parking removal under consideration to improve visibility; working with Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation (LACDC) on business outreach. Crosswalk at Oppenheimer re-striped (September 2025). Rose Street crossing under assessment for signage and potential RRFB. New marked crosswalk at Canyon/Aquatic Center installed September 2025. - North Road and Urban Street: Four-way stop request under review after fatal pedestrian crash; data collection complete; staff to present recommendation to Transportation Board at June 4 meeting, and to council by June 23 (within 90-day council directive). - Canyon Rim Trail: Phase 3A (Connie to 15th Street) designed, easements obtained; biological assessment underway; bid fall 2026, construction summer 2027. Phase 3B (blue segment) property negotiations ongoing. - Enforcement and Education: Council approved speed camera program (five static cameras: two on truck route, one on Pajarito, one on NM4, one on Diamond); return to council likely June 4/June 19. Two dedicated traffic officers funded (Jan–Apr 2026 issued 726 citations, 50 for exceeding speed limit by 26+ mph). DUI checkpoint conducted; officers follow school buses. Safety Town (10th year) and school driver’s ed partnership emphasized. - Traffic and Road Safety Task Force: Internal staff group (Public Works, Police, PIO, Fire) meeting monthly to coordinate communications and education campaigns (e.g., NMDOT “Look for Me” program). Bike Month (Presenter: Keith Wilson) - Events: Bike to Work Day – May 14, 7–9 AM at Canyon/Diamond. Bike & Roll to School Day (rescheduled to May 15 at Pinon School; last year 1/3 of students participated). Group commute from Barranca Mesa on May 14. Tough Riders Mini Film Festival May 16. - Green Bike Lane Installation: First trial installed at Diamond Drive/Sullivan Field driveway using epoxy resin with colored crushed glass (UV-resistant, plow-friendly). Additional green pavement markings at conflict points (e.g., right-turn lanes). Survey to be released for feedback. Future installations planned for Trinity Drive project and NM4 crossing. - Bike Box Concept: Two-stage left turn at West Road/Diamond Drive under development; will require reconfiguring crosswalks and stop lines. Seeking NCRTPO grant funding for consultant review. Educational component needed. - Idaho Stop Law (effective July 1, 2025): Allows cyclists to treat stop signs as yields and red lights as stops (if clear). Staff noted low public awareness. - NM4 Alignment Study: NMDOT study from Rover to Bandelier; public comment deadline June 12. Board urged to submit comments (e.g., bicycle/pedestrian concerns). Council Liaison Report (Councilor Halfman) - FY27 Budget: Approved $351 million (down from FY26’s $368 million). General fund $113M, joint utilities $95M, enterprise funds $64M, capital projects $26M, internal service $23M, debt service $8M. Salaries and benefits 1/3 of total. Public Works budget $63M. Revenue increase of $17M due to GRT rate increase to 0.625% (total rate 7.6875%) effective July 1, 2026. Unassigned fund balance target raised to 25% of general fund revenues (from 20%) due to GRT volatility. - Other Council Actions (May 5): Renewed Main Street MOU; adopted distracted driving penalty table; introduced ordinance allowing three consecutive terms for board members (subject to voter approval). Staff Report (Public Works Director Eric Martinez) - Bike Month proclamation to be read at May 12 council meeting. National Public Works Week proclamation May 19. - Finch Street Extension project: Five bids received; award likely June 9 council meeting. - Traffic crews refreshing striping, sidewalks, and vegetation trimming. - Atomic City Transit awards: Rural Transit System of the Year (2025) and Standard of Excellence from Avail system. New electric buses being built in Oakland, CA; expected delivery late fall 2026. - Transit driver shortage: Study underway with Stantech to evaluate service reallocation (including Saturday service). LADP losing drivers to LANL shuttle services. - Board discussion on lunch-hour shuttle from LANL to downtown: LANL security restrictions and federal funding rules limit public transit on lab property. - Evacuation planning: Tabletop exercise scheduled; Rendija Canyon evacuation route improved annually. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the agenda and March 5 minutes. - No formal motions or votes were taken on policy actions; staff will return with recommendations: - North Road/Urban Street four-way stop analysis to Transportation Board on June 4, 2026, with final recommendation to council by June 23. - Diamond/Sycamore pedestrian study results expected within two months. - Central Avenue parking removal assessment with LACDC outreach in next 1–2 months. - Trinity Drive project award to council on May 19. - Speed camera program returning to council June 4 or June 19. - Green bike lane feedback survey to be distributed within a week. - Next regular Transportation Board meeting: June 4, 2026, with potential items: EV fleet metrics, four-way stop recommendation, fire station update, and permanent Ashley Pond ballards update.

The Board of Public Utilities (BPU) held a work session on May 6, 2026, at the Municipal Building, Room 330, starting at 5:30 PM. The meeting included public hearings, consent agenda approvals, a recognition, and discussions on the electric energy coordination budget, fee schedule updates, and board business. Key actions included recommending a gas rate ordinance to Council and approving multiple construction contracts. Consent Calendar - Item 4.a: Award of Bid No. IFB 26-21 for the Jemez Mountain Fire Protection Phase III Project to Dub-L-EE, LLC in the amount of $3,904,195.98 base bid plus a 15% contingency of $585,629.40 (total $4,489,825.38) plus applicable NMGRT. Forwarded to County Council for approval. - Item 4.b: Re-approval of a purchase order for a UV disinfection system from Trojan Technologies in the amount of $184,800.00 plus applicable GRT for the Los Alamos Wastewater Treatment Plant. The initial approval expired due to a price increase and shipping cost changes. - Item 4.d: Approval of Budget Revision No. 26-69 ($550,000.00) and placement of an order for a Vactor (flushing and hydro-vacuum unit) in the amount of $549,720.28 plus NMGRT. Forwarded to Council. - Item 4.e: Approval of Task Order No.13, AGR 23-58 for repair of an 18” water transmission line with Brad Parker Construction in the amount of $219,336.06 plus NMGRT and approval of Budget Revision No. 2026-58 ($234,827.00). Forwarded to Council. - Item 4.f: Approval of reinstatement of contract for IFB 25-31 (Bayo NP Booster Station Rehabilitation) including two prior change orders totaling $1,427,586.41 plus NMGRT and approval of Change Order No. 3 ($34,983.25) with a new final completion date of June 30, 2026. Forwarded to Council. Public Comments & Testimony - Gas Rate Public Hearing: Paige Ramsey (online) expressed concern about the large rate increase for natural gas, stating that lower-income families may struggle to afford heating in winter. Discussion Items - Item 4.c (separated from Consent): Award of Bid No. 26-31 for Trinity Drive/NM502 ADA and Safety Improvements Project to HASSE Contracting Company Inc. at $1,200,514.10 base bid plus 10% contingency ($120,051.41) for a total of $1,320,565.51 plus NMGRT. Approved and forwarded to County Council. - Item 5.a – Public Hearing on Gas Rate Ordinance: Deputy Utility Manager Joann Gentry presented the proposed amended gas rates, including a 29% increase in FY2027 and 17% in FY2028 for residential/commercial customers (30% and 19% for County/Schools). The typical residential bill at 70 therms per month would rise from $67.45 to $78.53 (FY2027) and $86.93 (FY2028). The increase is needed due to lower sales (warm winter, efficiency improvements), operating costs, and to restore cash reserves. The board discussed the components (service charge, fixed charge, variable cost) and neighboring community comparisons. Motion to recommend Council adopt Ordinance 02-379 passed 4-0. - Item 6.a – Recognition of Cathy D'Anna: The board recognized Public Relations Manager Cathy D'Anna for 20 years of service (May 2006 – May 2026) with a certificate and leadership coin. - Item 6.b – ECA Budget Process for FY27 & FY28: Ben Olbrich presented the 24-month budget for the DOE/LAC Resource Pool. The process involves load projections, resource allocation, and cost sharing under the Electric Energy Coordination Agreement (ECA). Projected allocated costs per MWh: $79.41 (County FY2027) and $91.12 (FY2028). The budget is scheduled for approval at the next BPU meeting. Discussion included assumptions for Foxtail Flats solar project (operational April 2027 for phase 1) and the need for nighttime power purchases. - Item 6.c – Biannual Review of Fee Schedule: Joann Gentry presented an update on EV charging station financials and proposed an 8% increase in EV charging session fees (Level 2 to $0.25/kWh, Level 3 to $0.63/kWh) to align with the planned electric rate increase. A new hydrant meter rental section was also proposed. Board discussed utilization trends: Level 3 at Municipal Building dropped from 75 sessions/month (July-Oct 2025) to 54 (Jan-Mar 2026) after Level 2 chargers were installed. Financial losses persist. Action will be taken at the May 20, 2026 meeting. - Item 8.a – Reschedule July 15, 2026 Regular Meeting: Due to lack of quorum, the board approved rescheduling the July 15 regular meeting to July 22, 2026. Vote: 3-0 (Member Stromberg not responding). - Item 8.b – Planning for Annual BPU Presentation to Council: Chair Gibson presented a draft outline for the July 14, 2026 Council work session. Topics include utility finances, water rights, natural gas phase-out, electricity supply (Foxtail Flats, ECA), transmission challenges, and organizational challenges. EDAM (Extended Day-Ahead Market) was suggested for inclusion. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (minus 4.c) approved unanimously (4-0). - Trinity Drive ADA project award approved and forwarded to Council (4-0). - Gas Rate Ordinance 02-379 recommended to Council for adoption (4-0). The ordinance includes rate increases of 29% (FY2027) and 17% (FY2028) for residential/commercial and 30%/19% for County/Schools, effective July 1, 2026. - July 15, 2026 BPU regular meeting rescheduled to July 22, 2026 (3-0). - Next steps: ECA budget to be voted on at the May 20, 2026 meeting; revised fee schedule (EV charging and hydrant meter rental) to be presented for approval on May 20, 2026; annual BPU presentation to Council to be finalized by June 17, 2026.

The Los Alamos County Council met on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Fire Station No. 3 in White Rock. The meeting included proclamations for Building Safety Month and Historic Preservation Month, a presentation from LANL Deputy Laboratory Director Mark Davis, approval of a consent agenda, introduction of two ordinances, three public hearings, and a discussion on temporary sign code revisions. All seven councilors were present (one remote). Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from March 31 and April 7, 2026 regular sessions. - Awarded Bid No. IFB 26-25 for the Piedra Loop Underground Replacement Project to Bixby Electric in the amount of $1,182,877.44 (including 20% contingency) plus applicable GRT, with a 4.5-month term. - Approved authorized signers for county investment accounts at UMB Bank, including County Manager Anne Laurent and other financial officers. - Appointed Matthew McCleary to the Los Alamos County Health Council for a term ending May 5, 2028. Public Comments & Testimony - Sam Gardner (191 Dome Road, Jemez) expressed concerns during the LANL presentation: He noted that LANL's higher wages have drawn construction workers away from local projects, making it impossible to find labor for his subdivision. He criticized the shift from science to nuclear weapons production and questioned whether taxpayers are getting value from LANL construction projects. - Denise Durkicks (White Rock resident, former councilor) spoke during the sign code discussion. She supported updating the code, advocated for more visible designated sign zones (e.g., near the golf course and on Diamond Drive), and opposed signs in roundabouts. She noted that the county issued sign permits without fees in 2020, which provided start dates. Discussion Items - LANL Presentation by Mark Davis (9A-C): Davis reported that LANL has shifted from stockpile stewardship to stockpile modernization, meeting pit production requirements and progressing on LAP4 and the Electric Power Capacity Upgrade. FY26 appropriation is $5.5 billion; hiring is 1,000 this year to offset attrition. Economic impact in FY25: $752.5M in NM procurement, $2.04B in salaries, 40.2% of employees native New Mexicans, $141M in GRT paid. Collaboration with county fire and police on active shooter and wildfire drills. Questions addressed workforce commuting (over 50% commute from outside county), housing needs, skilled trades demand, and expansion to 24/7 operations. - Temporary Sign Code Revision (Item 10A): Staff presented options to regulate temporary signs in county rights-of-way. Current code is unenforceable due to missing designated zone map and no start-date mechanism. Council discussed Options 3 (year-round designated zones) and 4 (year-round plus additional zones during election cycles). A registry (not a permit) was suggested for tracking 60-day duration. Council directed staff to pursue Option 4, with input to improve locations (e.g., avoid roundabouts, consider safety and wildlife), and to engage community groups (realtors, Chamber, sports leagues). County Attorney emphasized content neutrality per Reed v. Town of Gilbert. Key Outcomes - Distracted Driving Penalty Ordinance (CO0753-26b): Unanimously adopted Code Ordinance 02-378, amending Sections 38-92 and 38-315 to clean up the penalty assessment for distracted driving (base penalty $200). Corrected two typographical errors in the whereas clauses (non-substantive). - Workforce Housing MOU (RE0675-26): Unanimously adopted Resolution 26-08, approving a Memorandum of Understanding with Madrone Community Development Corporation for the Coyote Mesa development on County Parcel A-8-A. The project will deliver approximately 380 workforce housing units (120 county-deed-restricted at 60-100% AMI, 98 state-deed-restricted at 120% AMI). Madrone, a nonprofit, will use tax-exempt bonds; net cash flow after debt service will return to the county. $4.6 million in state grants received. - MainStreet Program Support (RE0677-26): Unanimously adopted Resolution 26-07, supporting Los Alamos MainStreet and authorizing a biennial MOU with New Mexico MainStreet. Outlines county financial commitment and partnership for downtown revitalization. - Councilor Expense Approvals: Approved expenses for three trips: (1) One councilor to the ECA Intergovernmental Meeting (June 23-24, Arlington, VA) – reimbursed; (2) Two councilors to the National Cleanup Workshop (Sept 14-16, Crystal City, VA); (3) One councilor to the New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference (Sept 1-4, Las Cruces). All motions passed 6-0 (Councilor Reagor absent). - County Manager's Report: Noted that EPA denied a $1 million+ grant for food composting due to incomplete landfill permit and DOE lease amendment; county will seek debrief. LEDA/MRA applications are progressing (Janet Lovato loan, Ubiquity closing, Guesthouse/Hilltop House application).

The Los Alamos County Personnel Board met on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 11:30 AM in the County Council Chambers at 1000 Central Avenue, Suite 110. The meeting was called to order with a quorum present (Members Hampton, Best, Hoover, and new member Katko). Key agenda items included approval of minutes, introduction of a new board member, the HR Manager's Report with commute statistics, and a report from the County Council Liaison. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from February 11, 2026, and March 18, 2026, were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - None were offered. Introduction of New Personnel Board Member - Martha Katko was introduced as a new board member, appointed to fill a vacancy. Katko, a retired HR professional, expressed enthusiasm for serving on the board and stated she felt she could "hit the ground running." Discussion Items - HR Manager's Report (Bernadette Martinez): - Administration: New hires: Deputy HR Manager Tanya Chevidia de Lumis (started March 16) and Senior Office Specialist Mia Casados (started April 28). HR is preparing for budget hearings; a tentative approval was received from Council. - Safety & Risk Management: Safety training compliance reached 97%, including CPR, bloodborne pathogens, forklift, and confined space training. - Compensation & HRIS: A new electronic Performance Appraisal (PPA) system was implemented in the HRIS, going live 28 days prior. Feedback has been positive; PPAs are due May 8. Five new or modified job descriptions were approved by Council on March 3, including positions in Community Services (instructor), Police Detention (deputy administrator), Human Resources (risk analyst level III), Utilities (title change), and Community Development (title change). - Training & Development: Customer service training (mandatory, six-hour in-person course) is about halfway complete, with completion expected in August. A new "Manager Need to Know" training (six-hour in-person) will roll out in May, initially two sessions per month, covering ordinances, policies, benefits, labor relations, and more. County employees are 95% compliant with required training. - Recruitment Statistics (Year-to-date through March): 42 job postings, 642 applications received (193 in March), average 19.3 applications per posting, 29 promotions, 23 new hires, 3 transfers, 2 status changes. An RFP is underway for a new applicant tracking system due to issues with the current system. - Benefits: The wellness committee is being revived; a quarterly walking challenge will offer an administrative day off for the top stepper. Five retirement planning meetings were held in March. Service awards: five-year (Sobia Sedea), ten-year (Victoria Martinez, Tyler Randolph), 25-year (Rebecca "Gwen" Kalavasa). Three recognition coins were awarded for cooperation. Retirements: Jesse Ortega (Police Detention), Victoria Martinez (Clerk's Office), Daniel Archuletta (Fire Department). - Employee & Labor Relations: Negotiations began for the plumbers and pipe fitters collective bargaining agreement (expires June 30). Upcoming RFPs for dental, vision, long-term disability, and employee benefits consultant. - Commute Statistics: Martinez presented a report on employee commuting patterns based on zip codes. Key findings: A little less than half of all employees (including temps, casuals, election workers, students) live within Los Alamos County. Many commute from Albuquerque and other parts of northern New Mexico. One employee listed an address in Palm Coast, Florida (likely a pre-retiree on leave). The report is a snapshot and not regularly tracked; a refined report on regular employees could be provided. - County Council Liaison Report (Beverly Neal-Clinton): Noted the county is in the middle of budget hearings; praised staff for their responsiveness and expertise. No specific actions. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved the agenda and the two sets of minutes. - The board welcomed new member Martha Katko. - The HR Manager's Report and Commute Statistics were received and discussed; no formal action was taken. - The next meeting is scheduled for June 23, 2026 (no May meeting due to Memorial Day). The board may consider electing a new chair and vice-chair at that meeting.

The Los Alamos County Council held the continued FY2027 budget hearing on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, with the agenda start time listed at 6:00 PM. No minutes were provided for this session; the summary is based on the agenda, staff report attachments, and raw transcript. During the meeting, the Council completed department presentations, acted on budget options, and adopted the FY2027 budget in the amount of $350,220,288 as amended. That adopted amount reflects the proposed $349,305,288 budget plus approved amendments, including the previously approved $15,000 Inclusivity Training option and the $900,000 Department of Public Utilities Fairway utility-infrastructure option approved during this session. Staff presentations emphasized Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) volatility and the County’s financial position. The FY2025 General Fund GRT revenue was reported at $80.7 million, $17.5 million below the FY2024 level of $98.2 million. FY2026 was projected to end with a General Fund balance of $70.4 million after an operating shortfall of roughly $23 million. The FY2027 proposed budget projected an ending General Fund balance of $72.1 million with a small operating surplus of $1.7 million. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Dickman, speaking with the Tough Dykes and joined by Bridger Dickman, Callie Dickman, and Taran Dickman, expressed strong support for keeping the North Mesa Bike Park in the FY2027 budget and thanked the Council for considering the community process behind the proposal. - The Chair noted that additional e-comments supporting the North Mesa Bike Park had also been received. Discussion Items - Community Services Department: Department staff presented accomplishments including Gold Medal finalist recognition, completed playground and court renovations, the cemetery master plan, the columbarium project, the North Mesa Bike Park starting funding, Social Services outreach, and the new library integrated library system. Council discussed the status of the tree inventory, North Mesa Bike Park phase-one costs, and the social services facility timeline. The Council tentatively approved the Community Services Department budget of $33,543,026. The motion passed 7-0. - Fire Department: Fire Chief Eric Litzenberg and Administrative Services Manager Javier Anderson presented. They highlighted daily emergency response, two leadership transitions, a sixth accreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, wildland deployments to six fires, and about 40 acres of thinning on county-owned property. The budget discussion noted the department’s funds structure, the DOE/NNSA Cooperative Agreement, and professional/contractual services. The transcript does not show a separate tentative vote for the Fire Department before the Police Department presentation began; the Fire Department was included in the final adopted budget. - Police Department: The Police Chief presented accomplishments including a third consecutive CALEA reaccreditation, the inaugural Youth Cadet Program, a 20% reduction in overall reported crime, and more than 500 citations issued by the newly formed traffic unit in Q4 2025. The proposed Police Department budget was $20,113,136. The Council tentatively approved it by a 7-0 vote. - Public Works Department: Public Works Director Eric Martinez and division managers presented airport, transit, environmental services, fleet, facilities, and engineering accomplishments. Notable items included the completed airport fuel farm, the Atomic City Transit Rural Transit System of the Year award, augmented brush collection, and the five-year pavement preservation program. Staff asked Council to use the updated yellow budget pages showing a Public Works total of $64,367,263, about $2 million higher than the earlier green sheet, reflecting timing shifts between Fire Station 4 and Betty Ehart Senior Center funding. The Council tentatively approved the Public Works Department budget of $64,367,263 by a 7-0 vote. - Department of Public Utilities (DPU): Utilities Manager Philo Shelton and staff presented the DPU FY2027 proposed budget of $94,688,744, with FTE count unchanged at 107.65. The budget was about $14.1 million lower than FY2026, largely due to reduced purchased-power costs and capital expenditures. Staff outlined FY2027 rate changes already approved or proposed, including 8% electric distribution, 7% wastewater, 8% water, and a proposed 27% increase to the gas fixed rate. Council discussion covered the gas fund’s low revenue, typical residential gas bills, the Foxtail Flats solar project’s remaining unallocated generation, utility assistance programs, and the $900,000 Fairway joint DPU/Public Works utility infrastructure budget option. The Council tentatively approved the DPU budget of $94,688,744, including the $900,000 budget option, by a 6-1 vote with Councilor Reagor voting no. - Non-Departmental: Staff presented the non-departmental budget of $8,179,409, consisting primarily of debt service, including payments on the 2013 refunded GRT bonds, the FY2026 $40 million broadband bond issuance, and a proposed FY2027 issuance for the remaining $35 million of planned capital-project debt. The Council tentatively approved the non-departmental budget by a 7-0 vote. - Capital Improvement Projects and Financial Policies: CFO Melissa Dadzie and Administrative Services Director Helen Perraglio led a discussion of the Capital Improvement Projects fund, the Long Range Financial Projection, and proposed financial-policy changes. The proposed financial policy change would raise the targeted unassigned General Fund reserve from 20% to 25% of General Fund actual revenues, with added language that excess fund balance above the reserve target could be considered during budget hearings for affordable housing, economic development, and capital projects. Staff modeled one-time versus recurring spending scenarios and discussed the reserve target’s relationship to GRT volatility, bond ratings, and future flexibility. The Council also discussed the North Mesa Bike Park funding and the administrative services “cost increase for all categories” placeholder line. - Parking Lot Items: The proposed $37,350 County Council travel budget option was discussed but left unchanged, with Council indicating no increase was needed at this time. The Council then voted on a bike park funding reallocation. Key Outcomes - The Council adopted the FY2027 budget in the total amount of $350,220,288, as described in Attachment B, Summary of Changes from Proposed to Adopted Budget, as amended at the budget hearings. The adoption motion passed 6-1, with Councilor Reagor voting no. Reagor stated he could not support the budget because of concerns about future utility obligations and what he described as insufficient discussion of capital projects such as the Emergency Operations Center. - The adoption motion also approved the following related items: the FY2027 Long Range Financial Projection (Attachment C), the Equipment Replacement Schedule (Attachment F), the Summary of Pension Fund Administrative Costs (Attachment G), the Recurring Grants Schedule (Attachment H), the Schedule of Appropriations for Salary Adjustments (Attachment I), the FY2027 Department of Public Utilities Schedule of Funds (Attachment J), continuing appropriations from FY2026 for listed items (Attachment L), and the revised Financial Policies (Attachment N). - The Council approved the reallocation of $1,447,176 from CP 9007, the Administrative Services cost-increase placeholder, to the North Mesa Bike Park capital project line. The motion passed 5-2, with Councilors Neal-Clinton and Cole voting no. - Department-level tentative approval votes were recorded as follows: Community Services ($33,543,026) 7-0; Police ($20,113,136) 7-0; Public Works ($64,367,263) 7-0; DPU ($94,688,744 plus $900,000 budget option) 6-1; Non-Departmental ($8,179,409) 7-0. - With adoption completed, the Chair stated that the budget hearings were concluded and that no meeting would be needed on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

The Arts in Public Places Advisory Board (APPB) of Los Alamos County met to discuss public art project updates, the Justice Center mosaic, lion sculpture designs, the FY26 budget, and possible deaccession of two artworks. The provided meeting timestamp is 2026-04-27 18:30 UTC; the agenda and transcript reference Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Chair Tim Foley presided, with members Jasmine Stephens, Anna Buckthorpe, and Andy Wright; staff liaison Chelsea Ashcraft participated. No public comment was received. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes of the March 26, 2026 APP meeting unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made in person or via Zoom. Working Group Updates - Open art project: No new update; the board is waiting on sign design and language, expected in June. Board members said the project has been slow and that earlier community feedback showed little interest in art at Los Pueblos Bike Park, though some community members still want to commemorate homesteaders. Members expressed concern that the effort lacked a dedicated community advocate and was too broad; they favored coordinating with the Historic Preservation Board and creating targeted pieces that complement the planned signs. - Strategic planning: No progress since the last meeting; Tim Foley proposed meeting in June after the county council passes the FY27 budget so the group can plan using updated budget numbers as guardrails. - Fire station working group: Placed on hold until the fire station replacement design advances; a community survey on art theme may be launched during the June mosaic workshops. Justice Center Wall Mosaic Project - Chelsea Ashcraft reported the mosaic assembly workshops are scheduled for Friday through Sunday, June 5-7, 2026, at Mesa Public Library, with drop-in and reservation options. Registration opens May 1, and a promotional banner will be displayed on the overhead pass in May. - Participants will complete 12-by-12-inch grids in one to two hours; the artist plans to assign simpler pieces to families and more intricate pieces to experienced participants. The artist estimated needing around 15 people per hour over the 15 workshop hours to complete about 150 grids. - Advertising: The board reviewed Los Alamos Post rates: full page $1,365, half page $680, quarter-page vertical $340, and eighth-page $170. No ad was purchased immediately. Board members agreed that if registration is less than half full by mid-May, staff should place a quarter-page ad in the week before the event; the decision can be finalized at the May 28 meeting, with submission around May 29 or June 1 for the June 4 edition. - Stickers: Chelsea proposed participant stickers, costing about $97 for 300. The board preferred the cutout-style design over square designs and supported keeping the design evergreen while considering adding Arts in Public Places or Ask me about public art in our county. - Ribbon cutting: The board leaned toward holding the ribbon cutting at the end of installation week, around June 12-13, while the artist is still in town; staff will check for conflicts with Los Alamos Pride on June 12. - Volunteers: Chelsea distributed a sign-up sheet for APP members, with two board members per two-hour shift to avoid an accidental quorum; volunteering is optional. Lion Sculpture Designs - The lion sculpture working group, including police department representative James Rodriguez, reviewed public comments on two remaining designs. Board members said the public disliked the aggressive and roaring presentation, and many commenters requested a mountain lion, but the police department had asked for lion(s) for the memorial. Neither final design fully met the police department's requirements. - Originally, four artists were considered; two local New Mexico artists dropped out because they could not fit the project budget. Of the remaining two, one artist, Jocelyn, had an existing lion piece, while Daniel produced a 3D design and maquette for the project. - Both artists were asked to reduce the aggressiveness, for example, a lying-down posture and no roaring. Daniel agreed to create new 2D sketches after speaking with James Rodriguez. Jocelyn said a full redesign could not be done within the budget. - No vote was taken. The working group will review Daniel's sketches, and if acceptable, the APP board will consider a recommendation to the county council. Board members noted the budget was at the low end of the range for such a sculpture and discussed the police department's role in defining the desired piece. FY26 Budget Discussion - The board reviewed the FY26 fund balance of $261,217.36 after all known and anticipated expenses. The Pacific Coast contract line is $81,000 for the full contract through June 2029, not an annual cost. The anticipated FY26 revenue of about $69,000 is not yet included; budget hearings next week may provide a better estimate for FY26 and FY27. - Items highlighted in pink are projects under consideration but not yet approved by council. Members agreed the budget numbers should act as planning guardrails, balancing maintenance of the current collection with new acquisitions. Deaccession and Relocation Discussion - Dino World: Chelsea said the piece, a crane in a pond, is in poor condition; the maintenance contractor concluded that upkeep costs exceed the acquisition cost and stopped entering the pond to clean it. Jasmine Stephens attempted to contact the artist without success. The board discussed obtaining a repair cost estimate from the artist; if no response after about two months, they would discuss proceeding without the artist. Members also raised the need for clear criteria for when a piece is beyond practical repair and whether a new commission could replace it. - Tranquility: The piece was acquired in 2000 and installed in 2001, so it is past the 20-year mark. The artist is OK Harris, who may have died in 2008, and his Albuquerque studio appears closed. The piece originally cost $6,000. It scored as a beloved work in the community survey, which caused hesitation about deaccessioning. Relocation is considered not viable because the piece is rusty and poses safety concerns. Pacific Coast maintenance staff were hesitant about putting replacement art in the water due to labor-intensive cleaning and potential effects on wildlife from coatings. - No formal action was taken. Pending Items and Staff Liaison Report - Senior Center security gate: Installation was scheduled for April 28, 2026, but the shipper failed to pick up the piece; staff were awaiting a new arrival date. - Nature Center sculpture and Poppy and Groves installation: Completed; removed from the pending list. - White Rock pottery relocation: No update; noted as outside the board's control. - Aquatic figures pool mural: The pool is closed for renovation, and painting over the mural requires paint that withstands humidity, chlorine, and washing. Contractor quotes are due May 5 by noon and will separate APP costs from aquatics costs. Painting could begin in July, before the pool reopens in October. Staff are trying to contact the artist or estate; if contact is made, a deaccession recommendation could become a May action item. - Wind sculptures at Mesa Public Library: One of three wind sculptures fell and is now in Chelsea's office. It had fallen before; the original recommendation was a shorter pole because the current pole is too high for high winds. The company that took over the artist's studio offered a one-time replacement of a similar sculpture at no charge, valued at about $1,900, in exchange for the broken pieces. Because the ordinance treats this as a deaccession and replacement, the board needs to make a motion at the next meeting to recommend the exchange to council; with no cost, it could go on the consent agenda. Board and Staff Communication - Chair Tim Foley reported on the unveiling of the sculpture known informally as the bear sculpture, formally titled Ravens Dialogue, at the Earth Day celebration. The artist and Councilor Herman spoke, and roughly 30-40 people attended despite cold weather. Foley described it as well received and as a start-to-finish project for newer board and staff members. Key Outcomes - Approved March 26, 2026 minutes unanimously. - Endorsed the mosaic workshop plan, provisional newspaper-ad trigger, cutout sticker direction, and ribbon cutting during installation week. - Directed the lion sculpture working group to review Daniel's new sketches and return with a recommendation for a possible board vote. - Agreed to monitor Dino World artist contact and Tranquility replacement options; no deaccession votes were taken. - Scheduled next steps for May 28, 2026: wind sculpture replacement motion, aquatic figures deaccession action, possible lion sculpture action, and mosaic workshop discussion. - Adjourned at 7:01 PM.

On the evening of April 27, 2026, the Los Alamos County Council convened a special meeting for the first of three scheduled FY2027 budget hearings. The meeting ran from 6:00 PM to approximately 9:15 PM, recessing to April 28, 2026, after completing presentations for the County Council, County Assessor, County Clerk, County Sheriff, Municipal Court, Probate Court, County Attorney, County Manager’s Office, Administrative Services, and Community Development departments. Council heard an overview of the county’s financial health, including a projected $23 million operating shortfall in FY2026 and a proposed $349.3 million expenditure budget for FY2027, which is $18.7 million lower than the FY2026 adopted budget. The budget includes a new 0.625% GRT increment effective July 1, 2026, and a proposed increase in the General Fund unassigned fund balance reserve target from 20% to 25% of actual revenues. No public comments were submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comment, either in person or via Zoom. Discussion Items - Budget Overview and Financial Health: County Manager Anne Laurent and CFO Melissa Dadzie presented the FY2027 budget guidance, emphasizing a flat budget with inflationary adjustments, a 1% salary structure increase, a 3% merit increase, and a 6% group health adjustment. They highlighted that FY2025 GRT revenue fell $17.5 million below FY2024, and FY2026 GRT is projected at $83.7 million, $3.4 million below the adopted budget. The FY2026 ending fund balance is projected at $70.4 million, with a $23 million operating shortfall. The proposed FY2027 total countywide GRT is $113 million, with $104 million in the General Fund. - County Council Budget: Council discussed a budget option to increase travel and training from $32,650 to $70,000 ($10,000 per councilor). The option was moved to the parking lot for further discussion. Council tentatively approved the base budget of $689,037 on a 6-1 vote, with Councilor Reger opposing. - County Assessor: The assessor noted a potential future request for a new computer system (not in this budget). The department’s budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $1,103,955. - County Clerk: The clerk highlighted a 26.1% voter turnout in the 2025 local election, implementation of automatic voter registration, and a 10% reduction in operational costs by transitioning to a state-provided election worker management system. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $1,413,467. - County Sheriff: The sheriff’s budget covers sex offender registry management. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $18,671. - Municipal Court: The judge reported successes in youth programs (1,226 youth at Hawk Hangout, 100 teens in Teen Court) and pre-trial services. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $945,750. - Probate Court: The budget reflects increased compensation for the probate judge. Tentative approval was unanimous at $19,149. - County Attorney: The attorney’s office closed 324 items, including ordinances on speed cameras, broadband bonds, and housing agreements. Two new attorneys will start in May. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $1,659,283. - County Manager’s Office: The office manages administration, HR, risk management, communications, sustainability, broadband, and intergovernmental affairs. A budget option for $15,000 for inclusivity training was included. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $25,120,330, including the training option. - Regional Strategic Partnerships: The fund has $2.5 million in annual allocations. As of April 22, 2026, reimbursements to Rio Arriba County ($841,296), Española ($1,945,032), and San Ildefonso Pueblo ($500,000) left $1,024,233 unallocated at end of FY2026, with $2,999,233 projected for FY2027. The budget is tentatively approved as part of the county manager’s motion. - Administrative Services Department (ASD): ASD highlighted accomplishments including the broadband bond issuance, e-procurement implementation, cybersecurity (8,300 blocks per day), and processing 3,625 IPRA requests. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $19,213,845. - Community Development Department (CDD): CDD reported issuing 555 residential and 43 commercial permits, adoption of the East Downtown MRA, and progress on housing projects (Coyote Mesa, 20th Street). The economic development fund holds $12.4 million for LEDA and MRA projects. The budget was tentatively approved unanimously at $18,524,732. Key Outcomes - Tentative Budget Approvals: All departments presented received tentative approval as follows: - County Council: $689,037 (6-1, Councilor Reger opposed) - County Assessor: $1,103,955 (unanimous) - County Clerk: $1,413,467 (unanimous) - County Sheriff: $18,671 (unanimous) - Municipal Court: $945,750 (unanimous) - Probate Court: $19,149 (unanimous) - County Attorney: $1,659,283 (unanimous) - County Manager’s Office (including Regional Strategic Partnerships): $25,120,330 (unanimous, with $15,000 inclusivity training budget option included) - Administrative Services: $19,213,845 (unanimous) - Community Development: $18,524,732 (unanimous) - Budget Options: The County Council travel budget option ($37,350) was placed in the parking lot for further discussion. The inclusivity training option ($15,000) was included in the county manager’s tentative approval. - Meeting Adjournment: The meeting recessed at approximately 9:15 PM, to reconvene on April 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM for continuation of budget hearings.

This April 22, 2026, session was a staff dry-run and preparation meeting for the Los Alamos County Fiscal Year 2027 budget hearings. No agenda or minutes were available, so this summary is based entirely on the raw transcript. Participants rehearsed the budget overview, general fund and GRT revenue projections, proposed FY27 budget changes, the capital improvement program, reserve-target policy, and hearing logistics. No formal votes or public testimony occurred during this preparation session. Budget Overview and General Fund Results - Staff walked through budget book pages 62-63. FY25 actual GRT revenue came in at $80.7 million, about $17.5 million below FY24. The transcript cites FY24 GRT revenue as $98.2 million in one place and $91.2 million in another; this discrepancy was not reconciled. - FY25 ending fund balance was $93.4 million, carried into FY26 as the beginning balance. - FY26 projected GRT revenue is $83.7 million, about $3.4 million below the FY26 adopted level of $87.2 million. - FY26 projected ending fund balance is $70.4 million, representing an operating shortfall of about $23 million. Presenters said the County would dip into reserves but would remain within target reserve ranges. FY27 Proposed Budget Changes - From FY26 adopted to FY27 proposed, participants discussed an overall net expenditure decrease of $18.7 million. - Budget guidance included a 1% salary structure adjustment, merit-based adjustments up to 3%, union salary adjustments under collective bargaining agreements, and allowances for higher insurance and goods/services costs. Departments were asked to reduce discretionary spending to offset increases and aim for a flat budget. - There is an overall net decrease of one full-time equivalent position in the fire fund, reflecting an FY26 overfill for anticipated staffing changes; FY27 is back in line with the cooperative agreement. - Revenue is projected to increase by $2.2 million countywide, due mainly to a new GRT increment taking effect July 1, 2026, partly offset by lower projected utility revenue from reduced wholesale sales. - The net expenditure decrease includes: - $9.9 million increase from budget guidance. - $1.6 million decrease in the debt service fund related to deferral of a $35 million debt issuance for capital projects; staff also referred to planning a $35 million loan in fall 2026. - $13.7 million decrease in capital improvements from delaying projects. - $14.0 million decrease in utilities funds from deferred or delayed capital projects. - $0.6 million decrease in ARPA funding; ARPA funds must be fully spent by December 31, 2026, and only about $100,000 of the original $3.8 million remains to be spent. - $1.4 million increase in the fire fund under the Department of Energy agreement. - $0.1 million decrease in the airport fund due to reduced capital projects. GRT Revenue Trends and FY27 Projection - A historical chart showed budgeted GRT tracking closely to actuals from about FY2016-FY2021; FY2022-FY2024 brought revenues above budget and built a healthy fund balance; FY2025 and FY2026 reversed, with budgeted amounts above actual receipts and reserves drawn down. FY2027 is projected to get back on track with the new GRT increment. - Countywide FY2027 GRT revenue is projected at about $113 million. Staff noted the countywide number is larger than the general fund GRT amount because portions of the increment are directed to other funds and earmarks. Financial Policy and Reserve Target - Staff proposed increasing the target reserve from 20% to 25% of budgeted revenues in the redlined financial policy attachment. - Rationale included GRT volatility, two years of revenues coming in below projections, the planned $35 million debt issuance, and the need to keep supporting essential services and contracted obligations if revenues are volatile. - Participants voiced support for the higher target while asking for humble framing, emphasizing that it provides flexibility and a buffer between 20% and 25%, rather than a lock-in or an unnecessary surplus. - Presenters noted the council's GRT increase was intended to support priorities such as affordable housing and economic development; no allocations are proposed this year because GRT revenues have come in below budget for two years. Future unexpected revenues could be discussed at budget hearings for one-time initiatives and council strategic priorities, including affordable housing and sustainability. - The long-range projection was described as showing the FY27 proposed budget operating at a surplus and ending about $9 million over the new 25% reserve target. The 10-year projection includes a 3% inflation factor for baseline categories and transfers to CIP and other funds. Capital Improvement Program and Hearing Logistics - Staff planned to add a CIP title slide and present capital improvement program highlights, including an example tied to fire station 4 planning. - A possible sustainability line item was discussed; staff indicated it would sit in the County Manager's Office and be finalized through the summary-of-changes process. - The parking-lot process was rehearsed: department items needing more information or changes would be set aside, tentative motions would be taken after each department presentation, and final actions would follow parking-lot review and a summary of changes. - Staff confirmed public comment would be taken at the beginning of each hearing session, before the presentations. Key Outcomes - This was a rehearsal, not a formal voting meeting; no votes were taken. - The group decided on presentation logistics, including reordering slides, using the live budget spreadsheet for pages 62-63, pausing for questions after the general fund overview, introducing staff before department presentations, and using a CIP slide before the non-departmental presentation. - Staff planned to incorporate any parking-lot changes into the long-range financial projection and to update the final budget total accordingly. - The session ended with continued preparation planned before the FY2027 budget hearings.

The Los Alamos County Historic Preservation Advisory Board (HPAB) met on April 17, 2026, beginning at 5:15 p.m. UTC, to approve its work plan, review homestead interpretive signage, consider public-art collaboration, and prepare for the historic master plan discovery visit. The raw transcript states the meeting date as “February 4th of 2026,” but the date supplied for this summary is April 17, 2026. No written agenda or minutes were attached; the board is recorded as approving both. Participants included Chair Patrick Cruz, Vice Chair Gary Gregory, members Liz Marno and Anna Buckforward, Assistant Public Information Officer Leslie Buckland, Planning Manager Danielle Valdez, and Council Liaison Teresa Cole. Consent Calendar and Administrative Approvals - The agenda and meeting minutes were approved by separate motions. - No public commenters joined online. Public Comments & Testimony - No oral public comment was received. - A citizen emailed about the homestead sign removals and asked whether the county planned to remove other historical markers, specifically the Lawrence Hitchcock headstone tied to the Los Alamos Ranch School. Leslie Buckland responded that only the remaining homestead tour signs and an old sign on the USPS building are slated for removal; she advised the citizen to contact Open Space and Trails Specialist Eric Peterson about the proper process for trail-adjacent memorials. Discussion Items - Work Plan: Danielle Valdez explained that the “2.0 special projects/assignments” are shared board responsibilities; the department will coordinate trainings on advisory-board roles and CLG/state/federal justifications for a cultural-resource specialist position. After fixing a missing period in item 1.13 and changing “hour” to “how” in item 3.1, the board approved the work plan as amended. - Homestead Interpretive Signage Update: Leslie Buckland said the homestead tour and signage came from a settlement agreement between LANL and homestead families; 17 signs around town covered 36 families. Most signs were sun-damaged, not ADA-compliant, and some were removed for the urban trail. LANL has indicated it has met its online interpretive needs, freeing the county to proceed. Funding was approved in the previous budget, and quotes have been obtained for four new signs: two downtown near the Romero Cabin, one on North Mesa near the posse shack and stables cabins, and one at the Quaking Mesa Trailhead. The 18-by-24-inch signs will include four photos, concise text, a QR code/short link, and follow the National Park Service “45-second rule.” The vendor, Fossil, offers a 10-year guarantee. The old driving-tour brochure had low uptake—an order of 500 lasted through several years—compared with 33,000 Oppenheimer film-location tour brochures distributed in one year. The county also plans to remove an old sign on the USPS building, but the vacant state historic preservation officer position has stalled approval, so a formal request letter with a deadline will be sent. Target timeline: content to the board in April, printing in May, installation in summer. - Public Art Collaboration: Anna Buckforward described the Art in Public Places Board’s interest in placing period-appropriate, functional art integrated with the new signs. Survey feedback showed support for representational and traditional art; larger abstract pieces and a proposed Barranca Mesa location were less supported. She recommended small, focused pieces such as period-style seats near signs and cautioned against inaccurate details like the pitching-post bench in historic downtown. Board members supported collaborative, historically accurate art, noting that an inaccurate object can make an interpretive sign lose credibility. Leslie Buckland suggested assessing each location carefully and considering historical walking tour, discovery spot, and wildlife interpretation signs as additional opportunities. - Historic Master Plan Discovery Visit: Danielle Valdez reported that historic master plan consultants will be in town the following week for a discovery visit. The stakeholder list is about 50 people and growing, with 30 identified so far, including all board members, Georgia Strickfaden, Todd Nichols, Kristen, and National Park Service representatives. The Tuesday schedule includes a 12:00–2:00 p.m. working lunch, a 2:00–4:00 p.m. tour, and an evening presentation at the historical society. A notice of quorum will be posted because three HPAB members may attend the evening presentation without discussion or decisions. - Council and Board Reports: Council Liaison Teresa Cole reported that the comprehensive plan update will occur this year and includes updates to the remaining four sections of Chapter 16; board and commission members were identified as stakeholders, and HPAB should participate. Council voted down a proposed MRA commission by a 5–2 vote, with business owners saying they did not need the added step. She also reported council approval of the North Mesa recreation plan and noted that an open space plan may follow in early 2027. - Historic Trails: Chair Patrick Cruz asked about the Bayo Canyon trailhead improvement project. Teresa Cole had heard concerns about parking and the sledding hill. The board discussed the importance of historic trails, including ranch-school-built sections and wagon ruts on Luhan Road, and the need to balance historic integrity with ADA access and community needs. - Subcommittee and Member Reports: A subcommittee met on the homestead sign revamp. Recruitment for an open board seat was discussed, including brochures, a QR-code flyer, and encouraging early-career applicants. Loretta’s term ends April 30, and she was asked to reapply. The board also noted that the Fuller Lodge Historic District water-damage concern was addressed by moving sprinklers away from signage and the lodge. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda, minutes, and 2026 work plan as amended. - Directed staff to continue developing the four interpretive signs, vet content with experts, bring drafts back for the April agenda, remove remaining old homestead signs, and send the formal letter regarding the USPS sign. - The citizen inquiry about the Hitchcock headstone will be referred to Eric Peterson and the county’s trail-memorial process. - HPAB and the Art in Public Places Board will continue collaborating on art near interpretive signs; the working group will socialize concepts, with emphasis on period accuracy and community support. - A notice of quorum will be posted for the Tuesday evening historical society presentation. - The board discussed, but did not finalize, whether to cancel/postpone the next regular meeting; upcoming agenda items include historic preservation month planning, a historic master plan overview, and public engagement ideas.