Public Meetings - Rio Rancho, New Mexico

The supplied agenda covers the August 11, 2026 Planning and Zoning Board meeting, scheduled for 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The raw transcript also includes a separate governing body session on the same date, containing public forum, public hearings, resolutions, budget and personnel actions, and a council appointment. The Planning and Zoning Board approved most land-use items and postponed one subdivision request; the governing body approved development projects, the FY27 budget, and a personnel policy change. The transcript ends before a recorded vote is shown for one council appointment. Consent Calendar - The Planning and Zoning Board approved the July 28, 2026 meeting minutes by roll-call vote. - The governing body consent calendar was also approved by roll-call vote. Planning and Zoning Board – Public Hearings - Final Plat – High Range 5, Phase 2 (LGI Homes): Approved. The 33.957-acre R-4 site will be platted into 171 single-family lots and 10 tracts, dedicating 6.9407 acres of right-of-way. The adjacent High Range 5 park, platted in Phase 1, is approximately 2.78 acres. Staff recommended approval. - Subdivision Variance and Preliminary/Final Plat – Diana Reid Trujillo: Postponed to September 8, 2026. Staff recommended denial of the requests to split one R-1 lot at 1225 Villa Road SE into two lots because the property lacks paved roadway, sidewalks, and city wastewater access. The applicant requested the split for family use and said her name had been misspelled as Reed and should be spelled Reid. - Daycare Facility Site Plan – Montano (Plaza Rio Lot B): Approved with recommendation to the governing body. The proposed daycare on SU-zoned land will include enhanced landscaping, evergreen buffers, a six-foot wall, and an approximately 17-foot-tall stucco building. An additional governing body approval was noted for later that week. - Carport Setback Variance – JoAnn Valdez: Approved 3–2, with Richardson, Fischer-Pedraza, and Hankins voting yes and Lampson and Gabaldon voting no. The variance allows a 300-square-foot carport to encroach 15 feet into the required rear setback at 4700 Snowy Owl Road NE, contrary to staff’s denial recommendation. The applicant said she had been told initially that no permit was needed. - Lot Width Variance – Ismael Arreola: Approved unanimously. The 50-foot-wide R-1 lot at 836 Northern Boulevard NE is an antiquated platted lot; the applicant owns no adjacent lots, so the overlay combination requirement did not apply. - Zoning Interpretation – Vista Montebella Oeste: Approved. The board clarified zoning for 20 split-zoned lots consistent with staff’s Exhibit A, based on vacated right-of-way centerlines and the zoning district covering the majority of each lot. - Zoning Interpretation – Montreal Subdivision: Approved. The board interpreted Montreal Phase 1, Block 2, Lot 22 as R-1 and Montreal Phase 2, Block 3, Lot 5 as R-4. Public Comments & Testimony - No public speakers registered for Planning and Zoning items 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9; none spoke on items 3 and 4 before the postponement. - A Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce representative, referred to as Jerry, gave an extended presentation to the Mayor/Council portion of the meeting. He described chamber programs, cited 47,000 outbound daily commuters and $3.1 billion in external payroll, and raised the possibility of a $20,000 city membership and economic-development MOU with no operational funding. No vote was recorded on that request. - During the governing body public forum, Stephen Van Horn raised concerns about the city’s water report, saying the public needs more visibility into whether the water table is declining, and he criticized report photos as implying the water is always safe despite precautions listed for vulnerable populations. - Mike Jackovich spoke against the proposed removal of Juan Martinez from the Public Infrastructure Advisory Board, saying removal of a volunteer for asking questions was despicable. Jackovich also alleged he had been blackballed from advisory board appointments after criticizing a road bond list. - During the R55 public hearing, Stephen Van Horn asked whether the annexation into Bernalillo would affect city water service. The city manager confirmed the county complex has received city water for nearly 20 years. Governing Body – Discussion and Deliberation - Closed Session: The Mayor stated the governing body met at 5:00 PM in closed session under NMSA 10-15-1 H(2) for limited personnel matters and the annual city manager evaluation; no action was taken. - D22 – Sagebrush Church Site Plan Expansion: Approved. The amendment allows an approximately 6,968-square-foot addition. Mixed-use parking rules reduced the parking requirement to 262 spaces; the site provides 274 spaces, and observed Sunday peak occupancy was 153 and 199 spaces on May 3 and May 10, 2026. - O-11 – Indoor Soccer Facility Zoning: Approved. The ordinance changed Unit 16, Block BB, Lots 17A, 18A, and 20A through 24A from NC to SU for neighborhood commercial plus indoor soccer. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval on June 23, 2026. - D39 – Village Retail/Office/Restaurant Site Plan: Approved for property behind Blake’s Lotaburger in The Village. - R55 – Sandoval County/Bernalillo Annexation Resolution: Approved. The resolution supports annexation of approximately 7.8 acres of city land into the Town of Bernalillo to expand the 13th Judicial District Court complex and county facilities. - R56 – Sale of 0.56 Acres of City Park Land: Approved 4–2, with Colbreth, List, Dobson, and Mayor Weimer voting yes and Tyler and Lennington voting no. The sale would allow access improvements for a proposed multifamily/retail project near Camino de los Montoyas and Camino Entrada. Opponents cited density and conflict concerns; city staff said access was required for any development at the corner. - D40 – Western Hills Drive Reconstruction Award: Approved. Contract awarded to TLC Company Inc. for $2,340,943.55, including NM gross receipts taxes. Work includes full-depth roadway replacement, sidewalks, three fire hydrants, ADA ramp improvements, and patch/seal work; construction is expected to begin in September and last about six months. - D41 – Loma Colorado Boulevard Extension Design Award: Approved. Contract awarded to NV5 Inc. for $1,981,694.15, including design of the Broadmoor-to-Chessman extension, a roundabout at Loma Colorado and Chessman, a drainage crossing, and signal and lighting improvements. Design is expected to take approximately two to two-and-a-half years. - R57 – FY27 Final Budget: Approved. Changes from the interim budget include recognition of actual FY26 ending cash, carry-forward encumbrances, deferred city hall renovation and improvement projects, and approximately $381,000 for ASME, union, and non-union reclassifications and longevity pay. The budget maintains structural balance and a 25% general fund reserve. - R58 – Personnel Policy Amendments: Approved. The resolution revises PERA enhancement pay for non-union employees by adding a 5–9 year service tier and increasing 10-, 15-, and 20-year tiers, and extends the benefit to non-union communications management. FY27 cost is $48,648, effective August 10, 2026. - D42 – Appointment of David Mann as District 4 Councillor: Discussed. Councillors List, Dobson, and Colbreth supported the appointment; Councillors Lennington and Tyler raised conflict-of-interest concerns because Mann is general counsel for Rio Rancho Public Schools and had briefly withdrawn from consideration. The transcript ends before a roll-call vote is recorded, and it also includes a swearing-in ceremony for David Mann earlier in the recording, so the final outcome is not clear from the provided source. Key Outcomes - Planning and Zoning Board approved the High Range 5 Final Plat, the daycare site plan, the Arreola lot-width variance, and two zoning interpretations. It approved the Valdez carport variance 3–2 and postponed the Trujillo variance and plat to September 8, 2026. - Governing body approved D22, O-11, D39, R55, R56, D40, D41, R57, R58, and the consent calendar. - The transcript does not include a completed vote on D42; the supplied agenda and transcript also conflict on the timing of David Mann’s swearing-in.

The Planning and Zoning Board of Rio Rancho met on July 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The board unanimously approved a consent calendar, a site plan for a new preschool, and a preliminary plat extension for a subdivision. The election of chair and vice-chair was postponed to the August 25, 2026 meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously the consent calendar, which included the minutes from the June 23, 2026 meeting and the July 14, 2028 meeting (likely a typo for 2026), as well as a site plan for a preschool and a preliminary plat extension for the Dos Soles Subdivision. Commissioner Scottie Richardson recused himself from item number three due to a relationship with the applicant. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on any agenda items. Discussion Items - Election of Officers Postponed: The board voted unanimously to postpone the election of chair and vice-chair to the August 25, 2026 meeting. - Site Plan Approval – La Esperanza Preschool (Item 3): The applicant, LEBM2 LLC, represented by agent Autotroph Inc., requested site plan approval for a preschool at Unit 21, Block 4, Lots 17-20, located south of Arena Drive. Staff presented the plan, noting the property is zoned SU (special use) in the City Center Master Plan area. The plan includes 43 parking spaces, a loop drop-off area, playground, stormwater retention, and a building with textured wall finish. The applicant, Ruth Porta (owner of La Esperanza Preschool), and architect Alexander DeZurick provided details. The preschool will have an anticipated enrollment of 188 children, primarily infants and toddlers, addressing a high demand (waiting lists of up to two years). No public opposition was voiced. The board voted unanimously to approve the site plan with staff findings and conditions. The item will go to the governing body for final approval. - Preliminary Plat Extension – Dos Soles Subdivision (Item 4): The applicant, X2D LLC, through agent Sheldon Greer of Development Management Consultants, requested a one-year extension of the preliminary plat for the Dos Soles Subdivision, located off Southern Boulevard. The original plat (42 lots and two tracts) was approved by the board in May 2025. Staff noted no changes to the plat. The applicant stated construction is expected to begin in the next couple of months pending construction plan approval. The board voted unanimously to approve the extension with existing conditions. Key Outcomes - Unanimous vote (6-0) to postpone the election of officers to August 25, 2026. - Unanimous vote (6-0) to approve the consent calendar. - Unanimous vote (6-0) to approve the site plan for La Esperanza Preschool. - Unanimous vote (6-0) to approve the preliminary plat extension for Dos Soles Subdivision. - The meeting adjourned after board member comments and no public forum items.

The City of Rio Rancho Governing Body met on July 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The consent calendar was approved unanimously. Public hearings included site plan approvals for a church expansion, an indoor soccer facility, and a retail/office/restaurant development. Discussion items covered a land sale for future development, a county annexation, infrastructure contracts, the FY2027 final budget, personnel policy amendments, and the appointment of David Mann as District 4 City Councilor, which passed 4-2 after debate over potential conflicts of interest. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Minutes of June 16 and June 25, 2026; Resolution R52 (donation of mobile stage to Sandoval County); Resolution R53 (NMDOT FY2027 LGRF participation); Resolution R54 (disposal of obsolete equipment); Appointments D26–D38 to various boards and commissions; and other routine items. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephen Van Horn (resident): Criticized the city's water sustainability report, stating that the claim of injecting 350 million gallons since 2017 lacked detail on aquifer health. He also objected to images in the consumer confidence report showing elderly and pregnant women drinking tap water, arguing the accompanying warnings contradicted the positive imagery. He asked about future water service outside city boundaries. - Mike Jackovich (resident): Opposed the proposed removal of Juan Martinez from the Public Infrastructure Advisory Board (PIAB), alleging political retaliation and describing a pattern of excluding volunteers who question city leadership. He requested that Martinez be allowed to serve the remainder of his term. No action was taken on D31 following his testimony; the item was not moved to a vote. Discussion Items - D31 – Removal of Juan Martinez from PIAB: Public comment heard; no motion made. Item effectively tabled. - D22 – Sagebrush Church Expansion: Site plan amendment for a 6,968 sq ft addition at 7555 Enchanted Hills Blvd NE. Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval. Applicant presented parking analysis showing 274 spaces provided (required 262) with counts of 153 and 199 on Sundays. Approved unanimously. - O11 – Indoor Soccer Facility Zoning: Ordinance to rezone five lots from NC to SU for NC uses plus indoor soccer. Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval. Council members expressed support for adding youth recreation options. Approved unanimously. - D39 – The Village Retail/Office/Restaurant: Site plan for spaces behind Blake's Lotaburger. Staff recommended approval; applicant agent present. Approved unanimously. - R55 – Sandoval County Annexation: Resolution supporting county's petition to annex 7.8 acres into Town of Bernalillo for judicial complex expansion. County Manager Wayne Johnson presented details, including a need to resolve jurisdictional issues. Water service would continue as historically provided. Approved unanimously. - R56 – Sale of 0.56 Acres of City Land: Resolution to sell a portion of Camino Encantadas Park to facilitate development of a high-end multifamily project. City Manager Geisel explained the access constraints under state standards. Applicant Angela Parowski said the land would allow proper spacing for a future project (30–60 units). Debate centered on potential conflicts and density; Councilors Tyler and Lenentine opposed. Approved 4-2. - D40 – Western Hills Drive Reconstruction: Award to TLC Company, $2,340,943.55, funded by NMDOT grant and city funds. Construction begins September, lasts six months. Approved unanimously. - D41 – Loma Colorado Boulevard Extension Design: Award to NV5 Inc., $1,981,694.15, for design of extension from Broadmoor to Chessman, including a roundabout at Loma Colorado & Chessman. Two-year project starting September. Approved unanimously. - R57 – FY2027 Final Budget: Resolution adopting the final budget, required submission by July 31. Changes from interim budget included roll-forwards, deferred capital projects (city hall renovation, Tulip Road design), and $381,000 for union/non-union pay enhancements. Maintains structural balance and 25% reserve. Approved unanimously. - R58 – Personnel Policies Amendment: Updated PERA enhancement pay tiers for non-union employees, extending benefits to communications management personnel. Cost $48,648, effective August 10, 2026. Approved unanimously. - D42 – Appointment of David Mann as District 4 Councilor: Mayor Wymer nominated David Mann, general counsel for Rio Rancho Public Schools. Councilors List, Dabson, and Culbreath supported him, citing character and community service. Councilors Lenentine and Tyler opposed, citing potential conflict of interest given Mann's role as lead attorney for a major city entity that frequently interacts with the city. Mann had briefly withdrawn from consideration but later re-entered. Approved 4-2 (Yes: Dabson, List, Culbreath, Wymer; No: Tyler, Lenentine). Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items approved. - Public hearings for D22, O11, and D39 all approved unanimously. - Resolutions R55 (annexation), R56 (land sale), R57 (budget), R58 (personnel) approved; R56 passed 4-2. - Infrastructure awards D40 and D41 approved unanimously. - David Mann appointed as District 4 Councilor (4-2). - No action taken on D31 (removal of Juan Martinez). - Moment of silence held for former city planner Tamara Martinez.

The Rio Rancho City Council met on July 20, 2026, to consider a site plan (D23) for a proposed Maverick convenience store and gas station on a 2-acre portion of a larger parcel near Monterey Road and NM 528. After extensive public comment and council deliberation, the council voted 5-2 to postpone the decision to September 10, 2026, to allow further discussions with NMDOT regarding access from NM 528. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were noted. Public Comments & Testimony - Approximately eight residents spoke in opposition to the site plan, citing concerns about traffic safety, noise, lighting, property values, emergency access, and compatibility with the adjacent residential neighborhood and Enchanted Hills Elementary School. - Speakers requested denial or postponement until traffic studies during school hours, 528 access, and other impacts were fully addressed. - The applicant, Mr. Piggott (Maverick site development manager), presented the project, highlighting the company's commitment to safety, cleanliness, and community involvement, and noted that the site meets all zoning requirements. He stated that 70% of traffic to convenience stores is pass-by, not new trips. Discussion Items - D23 Site Plan – Maverick Gas Station: The council heard a detailed staff presentation from Director Rincone, who confirmed the site plan met all 154.43 criteria including setbacks, landscaping, drainage, and building height (average 24 feet). She noted that a buffer wall was not required along the southern boundary due to a 120-foot NMDOT right-of-way. - Council Concerns: Councilors raised issues about the lack of a full access point on NM 528 (only a right-in on Obergon was allowed), the impact on Monterey Road (a residential street), traffic during school hours, and the need for community outreach. Councilor Culbreth moved to postpone to allow the full development team to revisit NMDOT for possible 528 access. - Applicant Response: Mr. Piggott stated that negotiations with NMDOT had been extensive and resulted in the current access limitations, but he was open to further discussions if postponed. Key Outcomes - Motion to Postpone: Councilor Culbreth moved to postpone D23 to the first meeting in September 2026 (September 10). The motion was seconded and passed by a vote of 5–2 (Councilor List and Councilor Lennantine opposed). - City Manager’s Report: The city manager provided a brief update on 4th of July celebrations and fireworks enforcement, noting that police and fire issued warnings and confiscations in prior years. - No other agenda items: No second readings or first readings of ordinances were on the agenda.

The Rio Rancho Planning and Zoning Board met on July 14, 2026 at 6:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting included a consent calendar, public hearings, discussion items, and election of officers. The available transcript contains only a single word and does not capture any discussion, motions, votes, or decisions. Therefore, this summary is derived from the agenda and attached documents only. Actual outcomes are unknown and would be found in the official minutes (not provided). Consent Calendar The consent calendar included items 1 through 7, which are typically approved in one motion unless a board member requests discussion: - Item 1: Approval of June 23, 2026 meeting minutes. - Item 2: Monthly Building Activity Report for June 2026. - Item 3: Monthly Summary Plat Report for June 2026. - Item 4: Variance (Ismael Arreola) to allow single‑family home on a substandard 50‑foot‑wide R‑1 lot. Staff recommended approval with findings and conditions. Written public comments from Rebecca Smith and H. Garcia were attached. - Item 5: Postponement request (LEBM2 LLC) for a Site Plan for a preschool. Staff recommended postponement to July 28, 2026. - Item 6: Final Plat (LGI Homes) for High Range 5, Phase 2 subdivision. Staff recommended approval with findings and conditions. - Item 7: Variance (JoAnn Valdez) for a 15‑foot encroachment in the rear setback for a carport at 4700 Snowy Owl Road NE. Staff recommended denial with findings. Written public comments from Joseph Amdahl, Kate Nolte, and M. Lucero were attached. Public Hearings Three public hearings were noticed and included written public comments: - Item 8: Site Plan for a Daycare Facility (Ismael and Laurrel E. Montano) at Plaza Rio, Lot B. The agenda does not list a staff recommendation. - Item 9: Subdivision Variance (Diana Reed Trujillo) to waive street improvements, sidewalks, and sewer mains for a proposed two‑lot subdivision. Staff recommended denial with findings. Public comment was received from Henry (attached). - Item 10: Preliminary/Final Plat (Diana Reed Trujillo) to create two R‑1 lots from one lot. Staff recommended denial with findings. Discussion Items Staff requested two Zoning Interpretations to clarify zoning designations: - Item 11: For two lots in Montreal subdivision (Montreal Phase 1, Block 2, Lot 22 and Montreal Phase 2, Block 3, Lot 5). A draft resolution was provided. - Item 12: For 20 split‑zoned lots in Vista Montebella Oeste subdivision (specific lots listed). A draft resolution was provided. Election of Officers The agenda included an election for Chair and Vice‑Chair of the board. No results are available from the transcript. Staff Presentations, Reports and Comments Staff presented the monthly reports from the consent calendar and may have provided additional comments. Comments by Members and Public Forum Time was allotted for board member comments and public forum on non‑agenda items, but no such comments are recorded. Key Outcomes The transcript does not contain any motions, votes, or decisions. The board’s actions on the consent calendar, public hearings, discussion items, and election of officers cannot be verified. Official minutes would need to be consulted for the actual outcomes.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body met on June 25, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a range of items including proclamations, a council appointment announcement, consent calendar approvals, water rights acquisition, a road reconstruction contract, rezoning and master plan approvals, and a public hearing on a proposed Maverik gas station site plan. Key discussions included water rights purchase progress, traffic and neighborhood compatibility concerns for the gas station, and park design standards. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Minutes from the June 11, 2026 meeting; resolutions for disposal of fleet vehicles/equipment (R47), Parks and Recreation property (R48), Library property (R49); budget adjustments (R50, R51); appointment of Jay Morriswala to the Lodger's Tax Advisory Board (D21); and rezoning of Unit 10, Block 33, Lot 98-A from R-1 to C-1 (O7, postponed from June 11). Public Comments & Testimony - Stephen Van Horn urged the city to increase transparency on water issues and to revitalize the Public Infrastructure Advisory Board (PIAB), suggesting its charter be revised to allow proactive oversight. - Mike Jackovich criticized the city for not issuing a single citation for illegal fireworks between June 2023 and July 2025, despite city warnings. He called for enforcement of existing ordinances or repeal of the statute. - Nadine Mullinari (Rio Rancho Rockets Special Olympics team) publicly recognized and thanked Connie Peterson, Director of Parks and Recreation, for her support of the athletes and organization. - Jorge Colon Rosa (and many others during the Maverik public hearing) expressed concerns about the proposed gas station's impact on property values, traffic safety, school zone impacts, noise, light pollution, and environmental risks. Multiple speakers urged denial or postponement until independent traffic and safety studies are completed. Discussion Items - Appointment Announcement (District 4 Councilor): Mayor Weimer announced his appointment of David Mann to fill the vacant District 4 council seat. Mann is a long-time resident, attorney for Rio Rancho Public Schools. The appointment will be brought before the council at the July 23rd meeting for approval. - Water Rights Acquisition (D24): The city sought advice and consent to purchase 200 acre-feet of consumptive water rights from Platte Land & Water, LLC for $4.5 million. Deputy Director Gonzalez and staff explained the purchase meets state pumping permit requirements and will keep the city approximately 14–15 years ahead of schedule (through 2040). Councilor Culbreath noted water rights purchases are becoming smaller and more competitive. - Springer Drive Reconstruction (D25): Director Gottlieb requested approval to award a $2,898,444.71 contract to Albuquerque Asphalt, Inc. for reconstruction including a new sewer line and ADA improvements. Construction is expected to begin in August and take about six months. - Rancho Alegria Master Plan (R46) & Rezoning (O8): The applicant (Jim Stroger) presented the master plan for a 66-acre development (350 homes) with pocket parks, traffic calming, and a dog park. Traffic impact study recommendations included improvements at Northern/Rainbow intersections (signal/roundabout by 2037) and pedestrian enhancements. Councillors discussed park size, usability, and smart growth. The plan implements the Northern and Rainbow Specific Area Plan. Both R46 and O8 were approved (6-1, with Councilor Tyler voting no on R46). - C1 to C2 Rezoning (O10): Approved unanimously for a property on Unit 10, Block A, Lot 6, to allow expansion of an existing business. - Sagebrush Church Expansion (D22): Postponed to July 23rd to allow proper public notice. - Maverik Gas Station Site Plan (D23): Applicant (Mr. Piggott) presented plans for a convenience store/fuel station at NM 528 and Obergon. Traffic study approved by city and NMDOT but only allows right-in access from Obergon; no full access from 528. Residents raised safety, noise, light, and school traffic concerns. Councilor List noted major differences from the 2007 approved plan. After discussion, the item was postponed to September 10th to allow applicant to re-engage NMDOT on 528 access and conduct community outreach. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved (unanimous). - D24 (Water rights purchase) approved (6-0). - D25 (Springer Drive contract) approved (7-0). - R46 (Rancho Alegria Master Plan) approved (6-1, Councilor Tyler dissenting). - O8 (Rezoning to R-3) approved (6-1, Councilor Tyler dissenting). - O10 (C1 to C2 rezoning) approved (7-0). - D22 (Sagebrush Church expansion) postponed to July 23, 2026. - D23 (Maverik gas station) postponed to September 10, 2026, pending further review of 528 access and community input.

The Planning and Zoning Board of Rio Rancho met on June 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM to consider a single agenda item: a zone map amendment request to allow an indoor soccer facility on approximately 1.91 acres at South 29th Street SE. The board unanimously recommended approval to the Governing Body. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar contained no items and was approved by a motion without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak for or against the zone map amendment. Discussion Items - Zone Map Amendment (Item 2): Staff planner Michelle Costilla presented the request by applicant Steven Kraemer, through RBA Architecture, to rezone the property from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) to SU (Special Use) for NC uses plus an indoor soccer facility. The property is situated on South 29th Street SE, a residential road off Southern Boulevard SE. The existing NC zoning was originally CMU (Commercial Mixed Use) but was reclassified in 2013. The proposal complies with the Golf Course Quarter Plan, including a building height of 30 feet 2 inches (max 32 feet) and landscaping of 13,353 square feet (exceeding the minimum). Staff found the request consistent with the comprehensive plan, particularly parks and recreation goals. The board asked no questions. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve Item 2 (zone map amendment) was made, seconded, and passed unanimously (5–0). The board recommended approval to the Governing Body with staff’s findings and conditions.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body held a work session on June 16, 2026, to discuss economic development initiatives, partnerships, and future strategies. Presentations were delivered by City Manager Matt Geisel, Economic Development Manager Alberto Solis, Sandoval Economic Alliance (SCA) President Fred Shepherd, and Rio Rancho Regional Chamber of Commerce President Jerry Schalow. Topics included the history of local economic development, site readiness efforts, business retention and expansion, and the role of various organizations. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were on the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Public comment was not taken at this work session, as stated in the agenda. Discussion Items - City Manager Matt Geisel provided an overview of Rio Rancho's economic development history, from early Amrep marketing to the creation of the Rio Rancho Economic Development Corporation (RREDC) and its restructuring into the Sandoval Economic Alliance (SCA). He noted that the city's current contract with SCA began in FY24 and is in its third year. - Geisel outlined key economic factors: growth in gross receipts tax from destination sourcing e-commerce, strong residential construction, and increasing anchor/institutional employers (LANL, Sandia, UNM RMC). He emphasized the need for a cohesive long-term strategy and proposed making June a recurring economic development work session. - He introduced an economic development framework highlighting the interconnectedness of quality of life, job creation, and tax base growth, and noted that the city's 2023-2028 strategic plan calls for revisiting economic development priorities. - Alberto Solis discussed his first two years as Economic Development Manager, focusing on fact-finding, internal collaboration, and external partnerships. Key accomplishments included: - Leading a site readiness exercise for 70 acres at Rio Rancho City Center (43 acres designated a strategic economic development site by the state). - Applying for $1.5 million in state site readiness grant funding to extend College Boulevard to Broadmoor. - Convening a quarterly meeting of small business assistance and economic development partners in April. - Identifying four key opportunity sectors: aerospace and defense, bioscience/biotech, healthcare, and higher education. - Solis stated that Rio Rancho's competitive advantages are being safe, stable (accountable governance), and scalable (families and employers can grow). - Councilor Bob Tyler pressed for concrete metrics on job creation, business growth, retention, and site readiness. Solis acknowledged that no jobs had been created under his direct watch, but cited collaboration with partners. Geisel noted that the city has supported incentive packages for companies like Intel and Deluxe Designs, and that growth should be measured broadly, not solely by job creation. - Fred Shepherd presented SCA's contract deliverables: site readiness, business retention and expansion (BRE), and microeconomic gardening. Key statistics: - 47 unique company interactions in FY24, 45 in FY25 (direct outreach, not mass emails). - 20 businesses responded to an anonymous survey; local business climate ratings were higher than state or national ratings. - One small company added 9 jobs through microeconomic gardening; two expansions pending. - Since 2025, conservative estimates show projects assisted by SCA projected 1,481 net new jobs, $2.1 million in direct city tax revenue, and $341.9 million in local household spending, with a 400% ROI on city funding. - Shepherd highlighted that site readiness is a long game, noting that private landowners of industrial land may seek residential rezoning due to higher short-term profits. - He also clarified that SCA focuses on economic-base employers (companies not seeking front-door traffic), while retail/restaurant referrals go to the chamber and SBDC. - Jerry Schalow described the chamber's role in business retention/expansion, attraction, workforce development, and quality of life. Notable achievements included: - The "Shop on Southern" program, which kept businesses open during road construction and increased Albuquerque awareness of Rio Rancho. - Revitalizing Country Club Plaza and Turtle Mountain expansion. - Advocating for Rio Tech (CTE center) and Market Street grocery store. - Managing Discover Sandoval, a geofencing marketing program targeting workers at LANL, Sandia, and Intel to attract them to live in Rio Rancho and Sandoval County. - Schalow stated the chamber is the fastest-growing in New Mexico and top ten nationally. He noted that 47,000 residents commute out of Sandoval County daily, representing $3.1 billion in outbound payroll, and that Rio Rancho is 1,600 businesses short compared to peer cities like Santa Fe or Las Cruces. - He proposed an MOU for $20,000 in city funding for business retention/expansion and workforce programs, with no funding going to chamber operations, and measurable metrics. Key Outcomes - Councilor Karissa Culbreath called for quarterly collaborative meetings among the city, SCA, and chamber to reduce overlap and align efforts. - Councilor Bob Tyler expressed interest in an MOU with the chamber, including a city seat on the chamber board, quarterly reporting (similar to SCA's), and a requirement for collaboration among all entities. He suggested revisiting funding at mid-year budget. - The consensus among councilors was to increase collaboration and clarify roles to avoid duplication. - No formal votes or directives were taken; the work session was informational. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM.

The Parks and Recreation Commission met on June 15, 2026, to approve previous minutes, receive departmental updates on park projects, aquatics, and summer programming, and discuss upcoming events including the July 4th celebration. Consent Calendar - Approval of Previous Minutes: Motion and roll call vote: Commissioner Edwards voted no; Commissioners Romero, Herrera, Leading, and Marsh voted yes. Minutes were approved. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation – Diane Soyner (Parks Projects): - Projects in design: King Meadows Park parking lot replacement (smaller lot, three concrete basketball courts, dog park; may be phased); Sierra Norte phase 2 (eight pickleball courts, new parking, grass field, shade structure); Enchanted Hills trail replacement (12-foot trail, state grant funded, construction in up to two phases); Rio Rancho Sports Complex North Phase 3 (design complete, bidding anticipated fall 2026); Rio Rancho Multi-Generation Center (conceptual plan complete, schematic design and space programming to be presented at July commission meeting). - Projects starting construction in coming year (pending bond sale and fiscal year): Campus Park phase 2 amenities (benches, picnic tables, trash cans, dog stations); monument signs and restroom building branding; skate park replacement at Sports Complex; playground replacement and improvements at Sugar Park; Rainbow pool pump replacement (post-2026 outdoor season); Haynes Pool parking lot replacement; Western Winds playground structure replacement (ages 5–12); Star Heights Park playground repairs; exercise equipment at Broadmoor Senior Center terrace (funding dependent on federal CDBG approval; city may pursue alternative funding or reapply to state). - Tomorrow presentation to Sandoval County Master Gardeners and Rio Rancho Bosque group on Bosque history and habitat. - Commissioner Edwards noted public interest in Multi-Generation Center on social media; asked about inviting public input. Director Connie responded that the July presentation is a public meeting but does not include public Q&A; a separate town hall at Sabana Grande Recreation Center is being planned for renderings and questions. - Staff Presentation – Charles Fernandez (Parks Maintenance): - Still short-staffed (six positions down). Weed control ongoing (spray and manual removal). Growing season maintenance: irrigation, mowing, aeration, fertilizing completed. Irrigation breaks repaired quickly. Site printer upgrades continuing citywide for next 2–3 months. Preparing Campus Park for July 4th event; coordinating with Noah for decorations and flag setup. - Staff Presentation – Bianca (Aquatics): - Summer aquatics in full swing: swim lessons session 3 started June 1, session 4 started today. All levels 3 and 4 seashells and sun horse classes full; waitlist called. Two club teams practice at Rainbow. Rentals at Haynes, Rainbow, and Rio Rancho Aquatic Center booked through August; limited weekend availability at Haynes. Summer pool hours: RRAC Wednesday–Sunday 12-5; Haynes and Rainbow Monday–Sunday 12-6; Cabazone Wednesday–Sunday 12-6. Two new benches installed at Aquatic Center. - Staff Presentation – Connie (Parks and Recreation Director): - Juneteenth celebration at Haynes Park this Saturday, June 19 (or 20?) – program includes proclamation, performances, historical portrayals, vendors. Theme: Remembering African American Unsung Heroes. - Summer camp ongoing at all five community centers. Recreation centers offering fitness, arts, sports, dance, pickleball. Keep Rio Rancho Beautiful supports volunteer-led cleanups. - July 4th celebration at Campus Park: Saturday, July 4, 5:30–9:30 PM. Parade (registration free, required by June 26), New Mexico Philharmonic, Rio Grande Symphonic Band, food trucks, fireworks. Blankets and coolers allowed; no glass or alcohol (alcohol in designated area). Library hosting traveling exhibit "Declaration 1776: The Big Bang of Modern Democracy" at Loma Colorado Main Library July 1–September 12. Commissioners invited to serve as parade float judges. - Commissioner Edwards inquired about Movies in the Park program. Connie explained it was discontinued last year due to frequent weather cancellations and high licensing costs. Edwards suggested "dive-in movie nights" at indoor pools as an alternative; Bianca noted safety concerns with lighting and flotation devices but agreed to explore the idea. Commissioner offered to volunteer. - Commissioner (unidentified) praised the Women's Veterans event at the Skyroom, noting attendees were impressed. Also mentioned Commissioner Leading was nominated as a New Mexico hero by a student for the nation's 250th anniversary flag program. - No public forum was held. Key Outcomes - Previous minutes approved (4-1). - Staff will bring Multi-Generation Center schematic design to July meeting; a public town hall is being planned. - Parks maintenance continues with weed control and irrigation, short-staffed. - Aquatics programs fully booked; caution about dive-in movies but further discussion possible. - July 4th parade registration deadline June 26; commissioners interested in judging should contact Connie. - Meeting adjourned.