Public Meetings - Rio Rancho, New Mexico

The Parks and Works Commission met on September 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM (local time) to approve prior meeting minutes, receive staff updates on parks, facilities, aquatics, and programs, and to discuss and vote on changing the commission's meeting cadence to bi-monthly. The meeting was called to order at an unspecified time and adjourned at 6:44 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of June 15, 2026 Minutes: Approved unanimously via roll call (Commissioners Herrera, Edwards, French Barger, Leading, Marsh all voting yes). The minutes had been corrected from prior errors. - Approval of August 17, 2026 Minutes: Approved unanimously via roll call (Commissioners French Barger, Herrera, Edwards, Marsh, Leading all voting yes). Commissioner Leading noted a correction that he was present via Zoom; the minutes were approved with that addition. Staff Presentations - Projects Update (Diane Sonye, Projects Division Manager): Reported on the Rio Rancho Bosque, noting massive dieback of cottonwood trees due to low water table and historic low river levels. The city has used goats to graze non-native species and worked with forestry to remove dead trees. This year alone, downed wood volume may meet or exceed prior years; felling of hazardous trees near trails is ongoing. The city is coordinating with Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District, Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District, and others on re-vegetation. Upcoming: A formal presentation on the Multi-Generation Center conceptual plan will be given at the Parks and Rec Commission’s October meeting (landscape architects to attend), followed by a public open house on November 9 (Monday) at Loma Colorado Library Auditorium. - Parks and Facilities Update (Charles Fernandez, Superintendent, via Zoom): Reported that recent rains allowed irrigation to be turned off since Thursday, saving water and reducing wear. Rain helped hydroseeded areas at Canyon and Sports Complex but also promoted weeds and caused washouts at several parks (Los Milagros, Mariposa, Willow Creek Bosque Path, Northern Meadows). Repairs will wait until rain passes. Interviews for an open supervisor position begin tomorrow with seven in-house applicants. - Aquatics Report (Bianca Baca, Aquatics Division Manager, via Zoom): Noted Special Olympics practices started at Rio Rancho Aquatic Center, sharing lanes with Mako Aquatics, running until mid-October. High school swim team tryouts begin last week of October. The Pooch Plunge (September 12) at Haynes Pool was successful. Regular fall hours continue. - Deputy Director Reports (Ryan Armijo and Noah Trujillo): Armijo introduced himself as new to the commission; Trujillo had no report but returned for later discussion. - Director’s Report (Connie Peterson): Highlighted the Pooch Plunge with 258 dogs and their owners, $5 per dog fee offset costs; also combined with a City Council meet-and-greet barbecue (Mayor Weimer and Councilors Culbreth, Mann, Liszt, Dabson attended). The Food Truck Fiesta scheduled for September 19 at Cabezone Park was canceled due to saturated grounds and risk of turf damage. An Arts and Crafts Exhibit and Rummage Sale took place at Star Heights Recreation Center. Registration open for Youth Basketball League (Nov 2–Mar 6, $150/child). Kids’ Zone Preschool at Sabana Grande Recreation Center serves ages 3–5. Upcoming events: Cabazone Shop Local Market (Oct 3), Fall Festival at Campus Park (Oct 24, 2–8 PM, including Trunk or Treat expecting 2,500 kids). Free half-day landfill day Nov 21 (8 AM–noon). Senior Services Guide and newsletter distributed. Commissioner questions clarified age requirement (55+ for senior activities) and e-waste recycling (limited to seniors; general residents can use Waste Management door pickup). Discussion Items - Meeting Cadence Change (Noah Trujillo, Deputy Director): Presented data showing an average of four canceled meetings per year (2023: 4, 2024: 4, 2025: 4, 2026 so far: 3). Proposed moving to bi-monthly (every other month) to allow more robust meetings and reduce cancellations. Discussion included timing to avoid holidays (e.g., Martin Luther King Day in January). Commissioner noted that this would reduce from eight to six meetings per year. Staff saw no concern, noting eight-week preparation time vs. current four-week. Chair can call special meetings if needed. Key Outcomes - Vote on Meeting Cadence: Motion to move to bi-monthly meetings on even months starting February 2027 (January omitted). Passed unanimously (5–0) via roll call (Commissioners Herrera, Edwards, French Barger, Leading, Marsh all voting yes). Motion made by Commissioner Herrera, seconded by an unnamed commissioner. - Other: No public hearings or public forum. Commissioner comments included an inquiry about a dilapidated Little Free Library box at Western Winds Park (Director Peterson will investigate) and appreciation for repair of the observatory roof at Rainbow Park (by the Rio Rancho Astronomy Society).

The Governing Body of Rio Rancho met on September 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included a public forum with several speakers criticizing the city's use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and questioning water billing credits, followed by a public hearing and vote on a proposed Maverik gas station site plan that was ultimately rejected due to traffic safety concerns. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (6-0) the consent calendar, which included: minutes from the August 18, 2026 Special Meeting and Work Session; minutes from the August 27, 2026 Regular Meeting; resolutions authorizing disposal of property from the Police Department (R65), Library and Information Services Department (R66), and Financial Services Department (R67); and the appointment of Holly Barela to the Planning and Zoning Board (D55). Councilor Tyler noted a scrivener's error in the Work Session minutes to correct his title from "Councilor" to "Mayor." Public Comments & Testimony - Grace Dukes (Albuquerque resident) criticized the city council and mayor for what she called incompetence and for violating Fourth Amendment rights through Flock ALPR surveillance cameras, demanding their removal. - Joaquin Montoya (speaking for DFLAC New Mexico) presented statistics on ALPR inaccuracies, citing a 71% error rate in Roseville County, California, and incidents in Española, Aurora, and Ventura County. He argued the technology is a financial liability and accuracy failure. - Ronald Bjorkland (Rio Rancho resident) expressed concern that Flock cameras violate Fourth Amendment rights, though he acknowledged the police department's good work. - Casey Robinson (District 2 resident) warned about privacy risks of ALPR data collection, referencing historical parallels and noting that private companies could misuse data. He quoted Benjamin Franklin on liberty and safety. - Corrine Rios (Rio Rancho resident) asked when residents would receive refunds for overcharged water bills due to the city's failure to properly prorate bills across July 1 rate increases since 2020. - Michael Farrell (Rio Rancho resident) criticized the city for prioritizing privacy reform in December (IPRA) but now collecting license plate data, calling it a "dragnet" and asking to hear from the "silent majority" supporting the cameras. Discussion Items - D23 – Site Plan Approval for Maverik Gas Station: Director of Development Services Amy Rincon presented the item, postponed from June 25, 2026. The applicant, Richard Piggin (Maverik), and engineer Brian Haran were present. The revised site plan added a right-in access from NM 528 after discussions with NMDOT, but NMDOT only allowed a right-in (no right-out), meaning all exiting traffic must use Monterey Road, a residential street. The project would generate an estimated 850 vehicles per day onto Monterey. Three residents spoke in opposition: - Christine Eisenberg (Chemisa Estates Neighborhood Association) argued that only six homes directly in front were notified, but all homes on Monterey would be affected. She disputed the developer's traffic study and provided her own count: 586 cars on a school day and 219 on a non-school day on Obregon between 7-9:30 AM. She cited 20 accidents at the intersection since January 1, 2026. - Thomas Krupiak (retired firefighter) cited Rio Rancho Police safety concerns already raised with NMDOT about turning lanes at NM 528 and Obregon. He noted children walking to Enchanted Hills Elementary and raised environmental concerns about drainage and groundwater. - Kim Gonzalez (resident at 1201 Monterey Road, directly across from the proposed site) said 850 additional vehicles would make it difficult and dangerous to enter/exit her driveway and asked council to consider the impact on residents. - Councilor Lenentine expressed support for the project, arguing that development will push for infrastructure improvements and that most exiting traffic would turn left onto NM 528, not onto Monterey. He stated the applicant met the council's request to go back to NMDOT. - Councilors List, Tyler, Culbreath, Mann, and Dapson all opposed, citing safety concerns, the failure of ingress/egress and circulation (required under Section 154.43 A3F of the special use permit), and frustration with NMDOT for not approving a right-in/right-out or a corridor-wide review. Councilor List noted the property could meet spacing requirements for a right-in/right-out if NMDOT cooperated. - City Manager Report: Matt Geisel noted September 11 is a day of remembrance; Pooch Plunge and Governing Body Meet & Greet at Haynes Park on Saturday; the general election is in November (reminder about sign permits); a dedicated webpage on license plate readers has been added to the city website; and water rate adjustment credits are being issued: FY26 credits on August 11, FY25/FY24 in September, FY23/FY22 in October, FY21/FY20 in November. A handful of residents opted for manual credits earlier. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 6-0 (all members present except Mayor Wymer, who does not vote). - D23 – Maverik Gas Station Site Plan: Motion to approve by Councilor Lenentine, seconded by Councilor Dapson. The motion failed by a vote of 1 FOR (Lenentine) and 5 AGAINST (Dapson, Tyler, Mann, Culbreath, List). The item was postponed from June 25, 2026, and has now been denied. - Water Bill Credits: The city manager confirmed the process for issuing credits is underway, starting with FY26 bills. - Next Steps for NM 528 Corridor: Multiple council members called for a coordinated effort with NMDOT to address the corridor comprehensively to enable safe development.

The August 27, 2026 regular meeting of the Rio Rancho Governing Body addressed a range of topics including public concerns over the animal shelter and surveillance cameras, approval of a 32-lot townhome subdivision, contracts for well rehabilitation, and a major Axon technology consolidation contract. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM with Mayor Paul Wymer presiding. Consent Calendar - Items 1–6 were approved unanimously: Minutes of August 13, 2026 (Item 1); Resolution R62 (budget adjustment to General Fund); Resolution R63 (disposal of fleet vehicles and equipment); Resolution R64 (budget adjustment to Public Safety Miscellaneous Revenue/Donations Fund); Final Decision and Order D50 (variance appeal for 50' lot width, 26-110-00013); Final Decision and Order D51 (variance appeal for 50' lot width, 26-110-00014). Public Comments & Testimony - Amanda Luddenberg urged the city to create a foster program and expand volunteer opportunities at the animal shelter, noting that dumped puppies were nearly euthanized due to lack of care. - Nicole Graeber (District 5 constituent) described the volunteer program as severely limited, with no formal training and a prohibition on walking dogs. She requested an overhaul to allow volunteers to exercise dogs and assist with adoptions. - Joaquin Montano (on behalf of DFLOC New Mexico) opposed surveillance cameras (Flock, Axon, etc.), arguing they violate privacy and Fourth Amendment rights, and presented a petition with 3,700 signatures asking for removal. - Matt Griffin expressed concern about lack of public oversight and the erosion of freedom posed by the cameras. - Crystal Quinans (west mesa resident) raised concerns about water usage for dust suppression at a construction site (referred to as a missile/motor factory), questioning the impact on water resources and lack of notification. - Chris Adams (District 2 resident) opposed mass surveillance, stating that government power should be limited by design, not trust, and asked for removal of existing Flock cameras. - Ronald Borkland (U.S. Army veteran, 15 years) strongly criticized the cameras as a Fourth Amendment violation, expressed frustration at lack of response from officials, and urged removal. - Richard Sanchez (speaking on D54) opposed expansion of Axon technology, citing privacy risks and misuse potential, and suggested funds could be better spent on education, roads, and housing. Discussion Items - D52 – Site Plan Approval for 32-Lot Townhome Subdivision (La Plazuela Tract 2A): Director Amy Rincon (Development Services) confirmed the plan meets special use zone standards and a settlement agreement. Applicant Leanne Werblow (Spangler Pacheco and Werblo) presented the project as affordable single-family townhomes with a gated community, noting that a pocket park condition was met within half a mile of three parks. Councilor Mann asked about the park; staff clarified a fee alternative exists. The motion carried unanimously. - D53 – Award Contracts to Pump Tech, LLC DBA Alpha Southwest for Well 7 and Well 15 Rehabilitation: Director David Gallegos (Public Works) reported Well 7 (near Abrazo and Unser) can produce 1 million gallons/day, project cost $710,537.58; Well 15 (near Mariposa Parkway and Pachoge) produces up to 792,000 gallons/day, cost $526,864.15. Rehabilitation will include motor and pump bowl replacement, with concurrent work expected to take about six months. Both contracts were above $500,000, requiring council approval. Motion passed unanimously. - D54 – Award Contract to Axon (Consolidation and Expansion): Lt. Brandon McKinney presented consolidation of three existing Axon contracts (Taser, body-worn cameras, Fusis real-time crime center) into one 90-month agreement, with four expansions: 25 new cameras, auto-tagging capabilities, Axon Assistant (translation), and VR training materials. The consolidation would save the city $1,662,572.32 over the contract life. The contract includes a termination-for-convenience clause. Councilor Mann clarified that the cameras are body-worn, not traffic cameras, and Lt. McKinney explained auto-tagging automates metadata assignment. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 7-0. - D52 (townhome subdivision) approved unanimously. - D53 (well rehabilitation contracts) approved unanimously. - D54 (Axon contract consolidation and expansion) approved unanimously. - Council Comments: Councilor Mann highlighted the Harmonies of Hope concert benefiting the Grief Center, taking place August 29 from 2-4:30 PM at Eastern Hills Baptist Church. - City Manager Report: Announced upcoming events: Car seat clinic (Aug 29), Cavazan Local Market (Sept 5), Labor Day closure (Sept 7), Pooch Plunge and Governing Body Meet & Greet (Sept 12), Fall Community Cleanup (Sept 26, register by Sept 18).

The Investment Advisory Board of Rio Rancho met on August 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a consent calendar approval, a presentation on the Open Meetings Act, and detailed reviews of the Permanent Fund and Core/Liquidity portfolio performances by the city's investment advisor, GPA. No formal votes were taken on discussion items; the board provided input and noted information for future meetings. Consent Calendar - Approval of February 18, 2026, Minutes: A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes from the February 18, 2026, regular meeting. A roll call vote resulted in unanimous approval (5-0). Discussion Items Open Meetings Act and Decorum - City Clerk Davis presented on the Open Meetings Act (OMA), quorum requirements, meeting decorum, and board responsibilities. Key points included: meetings must be properly noticed (agendas posted 7 days prior), members should avoid discussing board business outside of public meetings, and a quorum (more than half of current members) is required. Two vacancies exist (Districts 3 and 5). The board's role is advisory to the governing body on the voter-approved permanent fund and city investment portfolios. Review and Input on Permanent Fund Performance - Director Yara provided background: The permanent fund was established via a 2024 voter-approved charter amendment with an initial $10 million investment. Subsequent contributions include $2,000 and $1 million from cell tower revenue. As of June 30, 2026, the corpus is $11,002,000, and cumulative investment earnings (over $6 million) have been fully reinvested. The board will be asked annually to advise on reinvestment versus expenditure of 50% of earnings. - Deanne Woodring (President of Government Portfolio Advisors, GPA) presented the fund's performance and asset allocation. The fund is invested 100% in State Investment Council (SIC) pools with a 55% equity / 45% fixed income target (plus 5% real assets). Year-to-date returns were strong: fair market value return of 14.94% (vs. 12.19% last fiscal year). Miss Woodring recommended rebalancing to align with the target allocation, including selling some credit-plus bonds and buying U.S. core bonds (approximately $1.7 million), and adjusting equity sub-classes. The board asked clarifying questions about policy limits and return assumptions. No formal vote was taken; staff noted the rebalancing decision lies with the treasurer but sought board input. Review and Input on Core and Liquidity Portfolios Performance - Deanne Woodring reviewed the city's core investment portfolio and liquidity portfolio, which are managed separately from the permanent fund. The core portfolio (invested in U.S. Treasuries, agencies, and supranationals) totals about $200 million with a yield of 4.03% and an average maturity of 1.5 years. The liquidity portfolio (money market) yields 3.60%. Market conditions show a steepening yield curve, with short-term rates declining (Fed down 100+ basis points) but longer-term rates higher due to inflation and oil prices. The portfolio is structured in a liquidity, cash-match, core tier to meet operating needs and enhance returns. Compliance with investment policy (including NMSA 6-10-10) was confirmed. No votes were taken. Key Outcomes - The minutes from February 18, 2026, were approved unanimously. - The board received information on the Open Meetings Act and board procedures. - The board reviewed the Permanent Fund performance and noted the rebalancing recommendation; no formal action was required. The treasurer will consider the input. - The board reviewed Core and Liquidity portfolio performance and strategy. - A future agenda item will be added to elect a new vice chair following the departure of a prior member. - Board members were reminded to complete annual statement of economic interest (sent in January) and to attend the upcoming counselor meet-and-greet in September.

The Public Infrastructure Advisory Board (PIAB) of Rio Rancho held its organizational meeting at 4:30 PM on August 26, 2026, in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, an Open Meetings Act presentation, election of officers, and adoption of the meeting schedule for 2026 and 2027. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Approval of July 15, 2025, Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the July 15, 2025, regular meeting were approved unanimously by roll call vote (6-0). Discussion Items - Open Meetings Act Presentation: City Clerk Davis provided a presentation on the Open Meetings Act, emphasizing transparency, proper noticing, and rules of procedure. She discouraged informal discussions among board members that could constitute a "rolling quorum." Directors Gallegos (Utilities) and Gottlieb (Public Works) introduced themselves and their departments. - Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair: - Raymond Mitchell was nominated and elected as Chair by unanimous vote (6-0). - Raquel Gomez was nominated and elected as Vice-Chair by unanimous vote (6-0). - Establishment of 2026 & 2027 Board Meeting Schedule: The board adopted the proposed meeting schedule, which includes: - October 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM (joint work session with the governing body, focusing on water/sewer systems) - January 26, 2027, at 4:30 PM (overview of roadway programs) - October 26, 2027, at 4:30 PM The schedule was approved unanimously (6-0). Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The July 15, 2025, meeting minutes were approved. - Officers Elected: Raymond Mitchell (Chair) and Raquel Gomez (Vice-Chair) were elected. - Meeting Schedule Adopted: The 2026 and 2027 meeting calendar was adopted. - Next Steps: The next meeting is a joint work session with the governing body on October 20, 2026, at 3:00 PM. Board members were reminded to attend community events and to avoid informal discussions about board business. Comments by Members - Board member Linda Cosand expressed appreciation for the city and its staff, noting the city's excellent management.

The Rio Rancho Planning and Zoning Board convened on August 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The board approved a consent calendar, held elections for Chair and Vice-Chair, and unanimously approved all four public hearing items, including variances, a conditional use permit, and a master plan amendment. Consent Calendar - Approved the August 11, 2026 Planning and Zoning Board meeting minutes. (Chair Scottie Richardson, Vice Chair Robert Gabaldon, and Commissioners Kevin Kofchur, Melissa Fischer-Pedraza, Andrea Hankins, Lisa Hardisty, and R. Wayne Lampson voted unanimously.) Election of Officers - Commissioner Scottie Richardson was re-elected as Chair. - Commissioner Robert Gabaldon was elected as Vice-Chair. - Both elections were approved unanimously by the board. Public Hearings - Item 2 – Variance (Above Ground Utility Connection): The applicant, Alfonzo Salazar (represented by Xavier), requested a variance to allow an above-ground electrical utility connection at 3300 Sue Cir SE, deviating from the city's underground installation requirement. Staff planner Tim Dvorak noted the area has exceptional physical conditions due to predominantly overhead utility lines, creating a practical difficulty and unnecessary hardship. The board voted unanimously to approve the variance with conditions. - Item 3 – Conditional Use Permit (Auto Sales): All Around Autos LLC, through agent Erica Lucero, requested a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for automotive sales at 912 36th Pl SE in a C-1 zone. Staff planner Michelle Costilla stated the use would be minimal (two display spaces, one office), the parking supply (27 spaces) exceeded the minimum requirement (24 spaces), and no site changes were proposed. The board voted unanimously to approve the CUP. - Item 4 – Variance (Lot Width): Applicant Jonathan Quintana requested a variance to build a single-family home on a 50-foot wide R-1 lot at 2735 Box Lake Dr NE, against the required 60-foot minimum. Staff planner Ben Isaacs explained the lot is an antiquated plat from 1968 and the applicant does not own adjacent lots. The board voted unanimously to approve the variance. - Item 5 – Master Plan Amendment (Paseo Gateway): AMREP Southwest, through agent Charlene Johnson of Consensus Planning, requested approval of a Master Plan Amendment to the Paseo Gateway Master Plan. Staff planner Liz Ruiz Carlos reported the amendment seeks to expand the plan boundary by approximately 14 acres to the east, update land use and zoning (including tracts 21 and 23, and blocks 204 and 205), and refine open space designations (including a 4.5-acre public park within a 5.9-acre open space tract). The applicant described this as a "cleanup" following the separation of the Cleveland Heights master plan. The board voted unanimously to recommend approval to the Governing Body. Key Outcomes - All four public hearings items (Two variances, a conditional use permit, and a master plan amendment) were approved unanimously by the board (7-0 votes). - The Master Plan Amendment was forwarded to the Governing Body with a recommendation for approval. - The board recognized and thanked Commissioner Lisa Hardisty for her service as she departs from her position.

On August 18, 2026, at 3:00 PM, the Rio Rancho Governing Body convened a work session in Council Chambers, streamed live on the City of Rio Rancho website. Present were Mayor Paul Wymer and Councilors David Mann (District 4), Deb Dapson (District 1), Karina Culbreath (District 5), Jeremy Lentine (District 2), Nicole List (District 6), and Bob Tyler (District 3). Per the Governing Body Rules of Procedure, public comment was not taken, and no minutes were available for the meeting. The work session covered the 2026 municipal officer election review, a license plate reader (ALPR) program presentation, and speed radar trailer data. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Public comment was not taken at this work session per the Governing Body Rules of Procedure. Discussion Items 2026 Municipal Officer Election Review - City staff presented the 2026 municipal officer election review. After the budget was approved, Sandoval County submitted a draft memorandum of understanding for the election, and the Governing Body approved two resolutions before July. - Staff reported that some proposed options would not meet ADA requirements in the election code or city requirements. Training guides were developed, training schedules were set, and local legal posting requirements were scheduled in December to meet statutory and publication deadlines. - Every candidate was validated for voter registration and residency: citywide for mayor/judge and district residency for councilors. Tabulator certification took four days across both elections. Voting occurred at five recreation centers and five schools. - Staff said the election could not have been completed without assistance from all city departments; additional hours were not included in the final election cost but affected department response times and public services. - Staff cited turnout comparisons, noting the town of Ernolio (as transcribed) had one voting site but more voters than Clovis. In one case, an individual did not realize the absentee deadline had passed and could not be provided a ballot; staff said the explanation of the exception process drew "colorful language." - Asked whether the work differed from prior elections, staff said no: each department did what it normally does. The City Clerk added that "every clerk before you've had to do it," and the process is time-consuming and costly, "but it's something that the voters or the citizens have said that they want." - The City Clerk stated that if the city consolidated its elections, she would request at least two additional staff in the next budget cycle. Election Consolidation, Voter ID, and Plurality Discussion - Staff said the Governing Body "one way or the other" still has to decide whether to consolidate the municipal election to November, and noted the city cannot have two elections happening at the same time. A runoff decision would be required; options discussed included plurality (the person with the most votes wins) or a qualification threshold such as securing 100 votes in a district. Staff noted the Secretary of State rejected an attempt to apply such a change in the last election. - A council member expressed the position that it is inappropriate for the Governing Body to unilaterally change voter ID requirements; that should be decided by voters. Another member said telling the City Clerk to "read your election manual" was rude. - Councilor Mann suggested using the 2027 citizen survey to gauge public opinion, since the Governing Body still must make the consolidation decision. Staff agreed the best available option would be citizen survey questions. - Staff discussed the risk that deciding now would mean consolidating with the understanding that voter ID would go away; voters previously approved via charter question the elimination of voter ID, after which the Governing Body consolidated. - Councilor Tyler said the plurality question is relevant no matter when the election is held. Staff noted that a Democratic primary in February 2028 would require New Mexico legislature action at the next (2027) session and that "there's strong support" based on what has been read, though legislative timing is uncertain. - Staff referenced charter review committee minutes for additional context and said "we don't have enough facts to say what's next" regarding a state-led consolidation. If the state proactively consolidated Rio Rancho to November 2027, the city would have to act in August. License Plate Reader (ALPR) Program - Police Captain Khashotti (as transcribed) presented the automated license plate reader (ALPR) program; the Governing Body extended the meeting without objection so he could complete the presentation. - The captain said officers must verify ALPR information before taking any action and cannot act on it independently. Access and searches are restricted to law enforcement-specific functions. - Flock Safety runs the license plates and houses the data; data is maintained for 30 days and then deleted. The company does not own, sell, or maintain the information; it only provides data to the law enforcement agency. - In 2025, ALPRs helped identify a bank robbery suspect who was taken into custody shortly after the robbery. - The captain stated that under Senate Bill 40, all ALPR information is confidential and is not considered a public record under IPRA. Officers who misuse the data are subject to prosecution and termination. The department performs quarterly audits of the system, users, and search activity, confirmed in response to Councilor Tyler's question. - One council member expressed frustration at the disparity: body camera footage and field sobriety test recordings are obtainable via IPRA requests, while the city has built extensive safeguards around LPR data. - Councilor List highlighted program benefits, including locating missing people entered in NCIC, checking on their safety, and giving families clarity. Mayor Wymer called the program "a significant benefit to our community and to the people in the state of New Mexico." Councilor Tyler thanked the police on behalf of District 4 and city residents. Speed Radar Trailers - The captain reported on speed radar trailer data, calling the early information encouraging although the trailers have been in place only a short time. The towers assist in areas where a 24-hour police presence is not feasible; the goal is to change driver behavior. - Staff said the current violation number is "a big number" and much higher than the last full calendar year of data (2024), when eight vans were available but frequently down for maintenance, so all eight were never fully deployed at the same time. - Councilor Tyler said there is enough data on fatal crashes between Santa Fe Hills and the area in question and referenced asking the same person who previously "conquered that mountain" for help again. - Staff said officers use enforcement contacts to educate the public, in addition to advertising. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the work session was informational. - The Governing Body must still decide whether to consolidate municipal elections to November. Councilor Mann suggested using the 2027 citizen survey to gauge voter preferences on election structure (e.g., plurality). - Staff noted voter ID and plurality changes cannot be made unilaterally by the Governing Body; voter ID would require a charter question for voters. - The City Clerk plans to request at least two additional staff positions in the next budget cycle if elections are consolidated. - The ALPR presentation confirmed 30-day data retention, quarterly audits, and restrictions on data use under Senate Bill 40; no action was requested.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body convened a brief special meeting on August 18, 2026, primarily to appoint a voting delegate and alternate for the upcoming 2026 New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference. The meeting was conducted in a hybrid format and lasted only a few minutes, with no other agenda items considered. Discussion Items - Appointment of Voting Delegate and Alternate for the 2026 New Mexico Municipal League Annual Conference (D49): The city manager noted that Councilor Tyler, Mayor Wymer, and Councilor Dapson would be attending the conference. A motion was made and seconded to appoint a voting delegate and alternate. There was no further discussion. Key Outcomes - The motion to approve the appointment of a voting delegate and alternate (D49) passed unanimously with 5 affirmative votes: Councilors List, Mann, Tyler, Dapson, and Mayor Wymer. Councilor Culbreath was excused, and Councilor Lenentine was not present. The meeting was adjourned immediately thereafter.

The Rio Rancho Parks and Recreation Commission met on August 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The meeting included staff updates on capital projects, park operations, aquatics, and upcoming events. Commissioners postponed approval of prior meeting minutes due to inconsistencies and discussed a proposal to change the meeting cadence from monthly to bi-monthly. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Approval of June 15, 2026 Minutes: Chair recommended postponing approval after noticing cut-and-paste errors. The motion passed, moving approval to the September 2026 meeting. - Staff Presentations: - Diane Sony (Project Division Manager) reported on upcoming projects: multi-generation center public meetings (location: southwest corner of Rockaway and Northern Boulevards, 13 acres); King parking lot rehabilitation (with basketball courts and pickleball striping); Sierra Norte 2 Phase 2 park improvements (turf, shade structures, 8 pickleball courts); Animal Resource Center kennel expansion (design complete, construction soon); Sports Complex North Phase 3 (little league field, awaiting state grant); Havasu Park basketball court replacement (concrete, with pickleball striping); Clayton Meadows and Enchanted Hills Park half-court improvements; Enchanted Hills trail design (50% complete); bond-funded skate park replacement and Sugar Park playground improvements. - Charles Fernandez (Superintendent) reported the department is 11 positions short, including a retiring supervisor. Weed control is manageable with drier weather. A large cottonwood tree at Cabazon Park fell after a windstorm; a 6-foot section was kept as a bench log. Another cottonwood at Trailhead Park was removed for safety. The department will plant 40 trees this winter. - Bianca Baca (Aquatics Manager) stated the summer season has two weeks remaining (weekends only). The Pooch Plunge is scheduled for September 12. Mayor’s Sunday Fun Day at Haynes Pool drew 200 participants. The FY26 capital project for Rainbow main drain repairs is planned for October. - Noah Trujillo (Deputy Director) reviewed recent events: Juneteenth (3,600 attendees), July 4th (9,000 attendees), summer camps (1,600 children). Upcoming: Pooch Plunge/counselor meet-and-greet, Food Truck Fiesta, youth basketball registration (450–500 participants), fall festival (October 24), Veterans Day parade, and Winter Fest (December 5). - Ryan Armijo (new Deputy Director) introduced herself and noted she is in her fourth week. - Commission Discussion on Meeting Cadence: Commissioner proposed changing meetings from monthly to bi-monthly to avoid cancellations due to lack of agenda items or quorum. Staff will provide data on cancellation history over the last three years. A formal vote is scheduled for the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Postponed Approval: Approval of the June 15, 2026 minutes was postponed to the September 2026 meeting. - Future Vote: The commission will vote at the next meeting on whether to change the meeting schedule to bi-monthly, pending staff data. - Public Events: Several community events were announced, including Pooch Plunge (September 12), Food Truck Fiesta (September 19), Fall Festival (October 24), Veterans Day Ceremony (November 11), and Winter Fest (December 5). - Tree Removals: Two cottonwood trees were removed from Cabazon and Trailhead parks; portions saved as bench logs. Tree planting of 40 trees planned for winter.