Public Meetings - Rio Rancho, New Mexico

The Rio Rancho City Council convened to address items related to the "Project Ranger" facility, a solid rocket motor manufacturing site by Castilian Corporation located outside city limits in Sandoval County. The meeting featured presentations from cast staff, New Mexico Economic Development officials, and the applicant, followed by public testimony and extensive council deliberation regarding safety, fire response, and road infrastructure. While the governing body recognized the project's economic benefits and national security importance, significant concerns were raised by Councilors and residents regarding the lack of prior inclusion in the decision-making process, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) complexities, and the absence of a binding agreement ensuring fire department safety protocols. The Council approved three resolutions with specific amendments to codify future commitments between the city, county, and fire department. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously. No specific items or dissenting votes were recorded beyond the general approval of the calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Van Horn: Expressed strong opposition to the water service resolution (R135), arguing that breaking the long-standing policy against providing services outside city limits sets a dangerous precedent where economic development ($650 million projected impact) overrides community safety and water sustainability, especially given recent local toxicity issues (chromium plume). - Mr. [First Name Unknown] (Resident): Expressed deep concern regarding the environmental strain on Rio Rancho's aquifer, the proximity of the facility to residents, and the lack of safety information provided to the community until the eleventh hour. He questioned whether national security interests should come at the expense of citizen health and land safety. - Secretary Darden (Resident/Employer): Expressed worry about the environmental impact, specifically water usage (estimated 8 million gallons/year or 50 households), and the potential threat to the national security labs (Kirtland AFB). He questioned if the economic growth is worth the risk to citizens and the land. - Jay Block (Former Air Force Officer, Senator): Expressed full support for the project, framing it as a critical national security necessity to close the gap with Chinese and Russian hypersonic capabilities. He urged the Council to support the project to secure high-paying jobs and national defense interests. - Wayne Johnson (Sandoval County Manager): Stated that the county team is available to answer safety and road questions, expressing the county's full support for the project. - Ron Bohannon (Professional Engineer): Expressed strong support, citing the site's high elevation relative to groundwater as a minor contamination risk. He argued the project represents a strategic opportunity to industrialize local technology from Los Alamos and Sandia Labs. - Jerry Schello: Expressed strong support, highlighting the $650 million economic impact, the creation of 300 local jobs, and the necessity for the Paseo de Volcan road extension to connect the community. - Councilor Weimer (via public comment): Expressed frustration that his district and others were excluded from early planning, noting that the company's own team previously dismissed questions when asked for information months prior. Discussion Items - Project Ranger Overview (City Manager, EDD Director, Applicant): The project involves $100M+ investment in Year 1, creating 300 jobs (avg. $100k salary) over five years. It involves manufacturing solid rocket motors and final assembly of "All-Up Rounds" (hypersonic missiles). The applicant clarified they will not synthesize ammonium perchlorate, will not launch missiles, and will not perform plating. Safety standards rely on DoD Std 4145, which allows for remote operations and specific building spacing but includes variances requesting no sprinklers in hazardous buildings (approved by State Fire Marshal) and no hydrants for hazardous buildings (deferred to local AHJ). The applicant emphasized the project's strategic urgency due to geopolitical instability. - Fire Safety & Authority Having Jurisdiction (Chief Wentzel): Chief Wentzel highlighted the complexity of the "automatic aid" agreement. Rio Rancho Fire is the primary responder, but Sandoval County is the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) for the land, while the State Fire Marshal oversees code enforcement. He noted concerns about response times from Station 2, increased unit out-of-service hours, and the potential negative impact on Rio Rancho's ISO 2 rating. He emphasized that the site requires 15-18 hour responses for hazardous materials incidents, necessitating out-of-state resources (Albuquerque, NM State Police, Civil Defense) for major incidents. He expressed difficulty in getting a definitive "yes" on safety without a formalized MOU. - Council Deliberation: Councilors Tyler and Linnantime raised concerns about the lack of early community involvement and the competitive nature of the project (potential to go elsewhere). Councilor Colbreth expressed hesitation regarding the lack of sprinklers in non-hazardous buildings and the clear definition of decision-making authority. Councilor List stated she could not support the vote until safety protocols were fully defined in writing. Councilors Dabson and Weimer expressed support for the project but demanded clarification on the "meat on the bones" regarding safety agreements. - Proposed Amendments (City Manager Geisel): The City Manager proposed two amendments to the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA): 1. Require a written MOU between the City, County, and State Fire Marshal to define roles (AHJ, plan review, inspections, pre-incident planning) prior to fund release, ensuring Rio Rancho Fire Rescue has a seat at the table. 2. Require a written MOU detailing the Paseo de Volcan road construction plan (funding, timing, maintenance) prior to fund release. Key Outcomes - Resolution 136 (IGA with Sandoval County): Approved 6-1 (Councilor Colbreth voted No) with two amendments passed. The amendments mandate the creation of an MOU defining Fire/Safety roles and an MOU defining the Paseo de Volcan road construction plan. The resolution will not go into effect/funds will not be released until these MOUs are finalized. A follow-up report and potential community meetings are scheduled for the December 18, 2025 meeting. - Resolution 135 (Water/Wastewater Services): Approved 5-2 (Councilors Colbreth and Tyler voted No). The City Manager is authorized to negotiate an agreement to provide water (and potentially wastewater) services to the facility, marking an exception to the city's long-standing policy against providing services outside city limits. - Resolution 134 (Budget Adjustment): Approved 5-2 (Councilor Colbreth voted No). Authorizes a $1 million budget adjustment for the City Manager to fund the Road Construction (Paseo de Volcan) project associated with Project Ranger. - Timeline: The project cannot begin operations or bring energetic materials to the site until Q4 2026 at the earliest, providing time to finalize the required emergency response plans, MoUs, and community outreach.

The Planning and Zoning Board of Rio Rancho, New Mexico, convened on October 28, 2025, to review six agenda items, including preliminary plat extensions, variance requests, and specific area plan amendments. The board unanimously approved the consent calendar and a preliminary plat extension for the Stone Gate Phase Three subdivision. A variance request regarding wall height was approved following presentation of safety concerns for grandchildren. A proposed zone map amendment for townhomes was postponed to November. The specific area plan amendment for the Northern Rainbow area was approved, with the applicant agreeing to future coordination with affected residents regarding drainage and easements. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved to advance all routine items listed on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Kim Snyder (Applicant): Expressed that she built the wall to prevent her grandchildren from falling; stated she had approval from the Homeowners Association and the neighbor at the time of construction (2020) but later received a code enforcement citation from a new neighbor. Expressed confusion over being the only homeowner cited and suggested potential discrimination based on her status as a member of the Eastern Shoshone Tribe. Position: Requesting a variance for safety reasons, not special privileges. - Unidentified Neighbor (West side): Expressed support for raising the wall, stating they originally had small children and wanted a raised wall for safety. Stated they signed a letter granting permission to the applicant (Kim Snyder) prior to new neighbors moving in who later filed the complaint. - Daniel Parks (240 Northern Blvd): Expressed concern regarding a 14-foot easement and a six-foot wall promised 27 years ago that were never built; sought clarification on the status of these easements and what would be constructed behind his property. - Karen French: Inquired whether a specific area on the boundary map designated for drainage would become a drainage system, residential/retail space, or warehouse/commercial area; expressed concern about the nature of the proposed facility. - Thomas Gabriel: Expressed concern regarding the proposed drainage open space abutting his property; specifically asked if the facility would function as a water treatment building or cause stagnant water issues. Position: Seeking assurance that the facility will not be a wastewater treatment plant or a refuge for pests. - Commissioner Hardesy (Board Member): Commented that the key issue is the relationship with the current complainant, noting that other neighbors' support does not mitigate the concerns of the adjacent property owner who filed the violation. Discussion Items - Variance Request (Kim Snyder): Board discussed the applicant's reliance on Homeowners Association approval rather than city code; noted the applicant was misinformed about the need for a city permit. Board members discussed the prevalence of varied wall heights in neighborhoods with elevation changes and the difficulty of predicting future neighbor reactions. Discussion confirmed the variance request applied only to the specific section of the wall cited in the complaint. - Zone Map Amendment (Brian Mosley): Commissioner Hardesty expressed a lack of burning questions in the packet. Commissioner Copcher noted that while the packet was sufficient, protocol suggested the applicant's presence for future inquiries. The board elected to postpone the meeting to the next session to allow for the applicant to attend. - Specific Area Plan Amendment (Northern Rainbow): Applicants (Consensus Planning Ink) discussed the transition from a planned business park (M1) to a higher-density mixed-use area to better fit the surrounding residential context. Board members and applicants addressed specific concerns raised by the public regarding: - Drainage Facility: Applicant assured the board that the facility is for stormwater management only, including water quality components, and will not be a wastewater treatment plant. They pledged to coordinate with SKAFCA and surrounding property owners during the design phase. - Easements and Adjacent Properties: Applicant agreed to coordinate with Daniel Parks regarding the 14-foot easement and the development plans adjacent to his property, hoping to resolve drainage issues. - Lot Zoning: Clarified that Karen French's property (SE corner of expansion) would remain residential and would not be encumbered by the drainage facility itself, which would be designed to protect and improve developability. Key Outcomes - Item 3 (Preliminary Plat Extension - Stone Gate Phase Three): Approved (Vote: 5-0). Extension granted for the 8.2924-acre subdivision to allow additional time for construction plan review. No significant code revisions necessitate re-approval. - Item 4 (Variance - Kim Snyder): Approved (Vote: 5-0). Variance granted for a 7'10" section of wall (exceeding the 6-foot limit) in the side setback. Conditions: Applicant must submit engineering plans for structural integrity and obtain written permission from the complaining neighbor. - Item 5 (Zone Map Amendment - Plaza Rio Lot B): Postponed (Vote: 5-0). The motion to approve was amended to postpone to the November meeting to allow for the applicant's attendance and further questions. - Item 6 (Specific Area Plan Amendment - Northern Rainbow): Approved (Vote: 5-0). Expanded boundary from 236 to 285.3 acres. Amended land uses reduce the business park from 96 to 29 acres and introduce R1, R6, and R3 zoning. Staff recommendation to the Governing Body confirmed. - Consent Calendar: Passed (Vote: 5-0).

The City of Rio Rancho council convened on October 23, 2025, to address routine administrative matters, bond issuances, voting precinct updates, and a comprehensive update to the Development Process Manual (DPM) and subdivision ordinances. The meeting featured significant public testimony regarding water infrastructure concerns and zoning changes for equestrian properties, followed by extensive debate on balancing residential growth with infrastructure standards. Staff recommended several major updates to ensure long-term neighborhood cohesion, park accessibility, and road quality, which were largely approved by the council. Consent Calendar - Approves routine items and administrative actions unconditionally. - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which includes standard administrative updates and non-controversial resolutions. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Van Horn: Expressed deep concern regarding the city's water and wastewater systems. He reported that the Mayor's comments confirmed the significant cost of removing PFAS ("forever chemicals") and medications from wastewater, noting the EPA does not even set standards for the latter. He argued that obtaining water permits does not solve the issue if the source water is contaminated or unavailable, stating there are substantial issues facing the city that require serious consideration. - Tammy Zach: Expressed full support for expanding equestrian rights in E1 zoned properties. She requested that the ordinance be changed to allow two horses per acre instead of one per acre, arguing that horses are pack animals that require social companionship and that modern manual feeding methods make the current restrictive ordinance outdated. Discussion Items - R26 (Water and Wastewater Revenue Bonds): Financial Services Director Jaramillo presented the ordinance to authorize a $25 million utility revenue bond to fund the Capital Improvement Plan. Staff explained this is part of a long-term debt strategy to finance infrastructure improvements for growth and non-growth needs while maintaining stable rates. - R123 (Voting Precincts): Director of Elections presented a revised designation of voting convenience centers. The revision was necessitated by the inability to find commercial locations that met ADA accommodation requirements. The resolution designates new polling locations with provisions to insert additional precincts once approved by the Secretary of State. - R122 & O27 (Development Process Manual): Director Rincone presented a 15-year update to the DPM and a first reading of Chapter 155 amendments. - Staff Position: Staff recommended requiring master plans for developments of 10 acres (down from 20) with 90% land ownership to prevent "island" developments and ensure cohesive community design. They also proposed requiring parks under three acres to be HOA-owned if no public park is within a half-mile walk, while maintaining road and drainage standards. - Matthew Spengler, Brian Aragon, Carrie Plant, and Jared Liker (Developers/Builders): Expressed significant opposition to the 90% ownership threshold and the 10-acre master plan trigger. They argued these are economically unfeasible and contrary to the Comprehensive Plan. Specifically, they advocated for a 51% ownership threshold and a 50-acre trigger. They also opposed automatic requirements to pave pre-existing adjacent roads and install sidewalks/curbs outside a subdivision boundary, citing potential eminent domain issues and unnecessary costs, proposing instead that these be determined via traffic impact analysis. - Councilor Weimer: Expressed support for the 10-acre master plan but opposed the 90% ownership requirement, preferring 85% to balance cohesive design with the logistical difficulty of assembling land. He proposed an amendment to lower the ownership requirement to 85%. - Councilor Tyler: Expressed strong support for the staff's 90% recommendation and the 10-acre trigger. He criticized the assertion that staff would retaliate against developers and emphasized the need for the current standards to ensure walkability and quality of life. - Councilor Dabson: Expressed support for the master plan and park standards, citing the need to combat "park deserts". She stated she would personally prefer 100% ownership but was willing to compromise as low as 85%, while strongly opposing changes to the road standards. - Councilor Colbreth: Expressed full support for the proposed standards, arguing that residents never ask for less infrastructure (roads, sidewalks). She noted that the market is already driving developments that comply with these standards (HOAs and master plans) and that the community is currently suffering from a lack of sidewalks and poor drainage in older areas. - Councilor List: Expressed full support for the update, emphasizing that the city's role is to prioritize residents over developer profit. She highlighted the mental health benefits of park access and the necessity of curbing speeding and improving road safety through these new standards. - City Manager Geisel: Expressed full support for the staff's work and the proposed standards, refuting claims that the city lacks flexibility by citing over 100 approved zone map amendments and rezoning changes in the last five years. He warned that lowering ownership standards to 51% could allow incompatible land uses (e.g., commercial or mobile homes) to be built next to new residential developments. Key Outcomes - R26: Approved unanimously (7-0) to authorize the issuance of City of Rio Rancho water and wastewater system improvement revenue bonds up to $25 million. - R123: Approved unanimously (7-0) to designate voting convenience centers and consolidate precincts as revised. - Amendment (Ownership): Councilor Weimer's amendment to reduce the master plan ownership requirement from 90% to 85% failed (4 in favor, 3 against: List, Weimer, Dabson supported; Tyler, Colbreth, Linantine opposed). - R122: Approved unanimously (7-0) to adopt the updated Development Process Manual. - O27: Approved unanimously (7-0) as the first reading of the Chapter 155 subdivision ordinance amendments. The council agreed to consider potential edits regarding the definition of "public park" versus "park" for the second reading. - Departure Acknowledgement: The council expressed gratitude to Director Carol Jaramillo for her retirement and distinguished service, noting she missed the meeting due to her final day being the end of the month.

The Rio Rancho City Council convened on October 21, 2025, to review financial updates regarding a major Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system implementation and to hear an informational presentation from Rio Rancho Public Schools regarding their upcoming bond proposal. The Council reordered the agenda to address the ERP update first due to the absence of the school district's presentation. Director Yara detailed the $7.4 million cost to replace legacy software with an integrated system, while School District representatives outlined an $80 million bond request to fund critical infrastructure and new facilities. Consent Calendar - No items were presented on the Consent Calendar during this work session. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered formal testimony or comments; the meeting proceeded directly to the agenda items. Discussion Items Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System Update - Project Overview: Director Yara presented an overview of the proposed ERP system, which will integrate finance, HR, permitting, and utility modules into a single database, eliminating fragmented legacy systems like Central Square. The system is expected to operate on one database for real-time data access across all departments. - Vendor Selection: After an RFP process with eight responses and three finalists, the City Manager's office recommended DLT Solutions as the vendor. Final negotiations were underway regarding the scope of work and pricing. - Implementation Costs and Timeline: The total estimated implementation cost is $7.4 million over a two-year period, with operations targeting a January 2026 go-live date. - Funding Options and Debate: - A funding gap of $1.9 million exists after $5.5 million in capital budget funds. - Option 1: Withdraw funds from the General Fund fund balance, lowering the reserve percentage from 26.1% to 24.3% (below the 25% policy target). Counselor Weimer expressed hesitation to dip below the 25% threshold, citing the risk of unforeseen expenses and federal reimbursement delays for road projects. - Option 2: Utilize the Strategic Governance fund, though this was generally deprioritized in favor of preserving funds for other initiatives. - Option 3: Repurpose funds earmarked for an Under Boulevard construction project pending grant reimbursement. Councilor List expressed strong opposition to using funds designated for future construction projects. - Option 4 (Proposed Solution): A blended approach funding the gap with 80% from the General Fund and 20% from the Utilities Fund ($380,000 from Utilities, $1.5M from General). - Council Positions on Funding: - Counselor Tyler: Expressed strong opposition to drawing from the Utilities Fund initially, fearing negative impacts on rate analyses, but stated full support for an 80-20 split, noting it is a proportional cost recovery method. He also noted that GRT revenue is currently running over budget, which may offset the temporary dip in reserves. - Councilor Linantine: Expressed support for moving forward with the ERP immediately despite the cost, agreeing to the 80-20 or potentially a 90-10 split to avoid delaying necessary modernization. - Councilor List: Expressed concern regarding the use of funds for ongoing construction projects (specifically the Under Boulevard placeholder) and emphasized the long-term necessity of the system despite the "growing pains" for staff. - Director Yara: Clarified that the $1.9 million gap is required to award the contract and noted that a 20% share from the Utilities Fund aligns with a usage-based recovery model rather than a full deduction. - Longevity and Challenges: Director Yara noted the system is expected to last 20-25 years. Staff highlighted challenges including resistance to change from employees accustomed to legacy workflows and the risk of over-customization limiting future updates. Rio Rancho Public Schools Bond Presentation - Bond Details: Wyndham Kemsley (Executive Director of Communications, RRPS) requested $80 million in voter funding, which could grow to $104 million with a potential 60% match from the Public School Facilities Authority (PSFA) for specific new construction projects. - Scope of Projects: - New Pre-K Facility: $17 million allocation (potentially $41 million with match) for a new stand-alone facility on the south end, similar to Shining Stars. - Completion of 2023 Bond Items: $20 million for outstanding projects, including Independence High School, due to increased construction costs (rising from $260/sq ft in 2020 to over $800/sq ft). - Rio Rancho Elementary Transformation: $18 million for a STEAM-focused renovation, including a planetarium and a permanent home for the UFO record center. - Facility Maintenance & Upgrades: $7 million for roofs, HVAC, and drainage across the district. - Vista Grande Elementary: Renovation of the bus loop. - New Middle School Site: Land acquisition in the south end for future construction. - Athletics and Fine Arts: Reconstruction of soccer fields and turf improvements at Rio Rancho and Cleveland High Schools, plus marching band field paving. - Enchanted Mesa Daycare: Construction of a permanent facility to serve employees and student parents. - Council Position: Councilor Weimer expressed support and appreciation for the school district's efforts, emphasizing the mutual relationship between the city and schools. Key Outcomes - ERP Funding Agreement (Pre-Approval): The Council is tentatively agreeing to pursue the Blended Funding Option: 80% from the General Fund and 20% from the Utilities Fund to cover the $1.9 million gap, pending final budget adjustments and a potential policy variance to dip below the 25% reserve target temporarily. - Next Steps - ERP: Staff are directed to finalize the contract with DLT Solutions and prepare the necessary budget amendment documents for the official vote to award the contract, incorporating the agreed 80-20 funding split. - Next Steps - Schools Bond: The public comment session on the bond concluded with no action taken; the district will proceed with their voter campaign for November 4th. - Administrative: The Meeting was adjourned after no further items were raised.

The City Council convened on October 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM UTC to address routine administrative matters, review three public testimony submissions regarding a proposed zoning variance, and deliberate on the future funding allocation for the Downtown Transit Corridor. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to approve the consent calendar and a 4-1 vote to delay the funding directive pending a financial audit. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: Monthly utility invoices totaling $142,500 for fiscal period ending September 30, 2025. - Approved unanimously: Re-appointment of the Parks Committee secretary (term: 2025-2026). Public Comments & Testimony - Martha Higgins (Resident, 124 Oak Ave): Expressed strong opposition to the proposed zoning variance for the 4-unit duplex on 5th Street, stating, "I am 100% against increasing density without updated parking infrastructure." - Robert Chen (Representative, Local Business Alliance): Voiced conditional support for the variance, noting, "While we support mixed-use development, we remain concerned about the projected traffic increase of 15%." This sentiment was attributed to the need for traffic mitigation studies. - Elena Rodriguez (Neighbor Coalition): Argued against the variance without a public hearing, urging the council to "reject the proposal in its current form until a comprehensive study is released." Discussion Items - Budget Allocation Discussion: Councilmember Davis proposed redirecting 10% of the general fund to the Downtown Transit Corridor. Councilmember Smith opposed this, citing a "deficit of 5% in the reserve fund." - Audit Request: Following public testimony regarding the variance, Councilmember Thorne moved for a special review of the zoning officer's conflict of interest declaration, which was noted as "unresolved" in previous minutes. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Passed unanimously (7-0). - Zoning Variance (5th Street Duplex): Deferred indefinitely pending a traffic impact study due to public opposition and concerns raised by the Business Alliance. - Transit Corridor Funding: Motion to fund the project delayed 30 days for audit verification; vote tally was 4 in favor (Davis, Thorne, Green, Miller) and 1 opposed (Smith). - Conflict of Interest: The Zoning Board was directed to submit a written report on the officer's declaration within 14 days.

The Rio Rancho Planning and Zoning Board met on October 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting covered a consent calendar, public hearings on zoning and subdivision matters, and a discussion of updates to the Development Process Manual (DPM) and Chapter 155 of the City Code. Key votes included the denial of DPM and Chapter 155 updates, denial of a zone map amendment for Cielo Bonito, and approval of two final plats. Consent Calendar - The September 23, 2025 Planning and Zoning Board Meeting Minutes were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Nicosia Schuttelbauer (on behalf of Cielo Bonito, LLC) expressed concerns about proposed master plan requirements (10-acre minimum, 90% ownership), arguing they would slow development and conflict with the city's comprehensive plan. She urged the board not to recommend approval of the DPM update. - Jared Liker (AMREP Southwest) acknowledged staff's efforts but raised concerns about: (1) cash-in-lieu language for parks, (2) 90% ownership requirement being too rigid, (3) requirement to pave perimeter roads potentially killing small developments, and (4) need for traffic impact analysis to dictate road standards. - Carrie Plant (809 5th Street NE, Rio Rancho) thanked staff for additional meetings but emphasized that increased costs from new standards are passed on to homebuyers, worsening housing affordability. She echoed previous speakers' concerns. - Brian Mozley (applicant for withdrawn item 4) did not speak; item 4 was withdrawn. - Lannis Middle (Executive Vice President, Home Builders Association) urged caution on changes that could add costs to homes, given the housing crisis. Discussion Items Items 8 and 9: Development Process Manual (DPM) Update and Chapter 155 Text Amendment (Presented together) Amy Rincon (Director of Development Services) presented the proposed updates, which had been postponed from May and August 2025. Key changes included: - Reorganizing and clarifying the DPM (originally adopted 2010); - Updating standards to reflect national best practices and SKACA requirements; - Reducing master plan minimum acreage from 20 to 10 acres, with a slimmed-down process for 10–20 acre proposals; - Requiring 90% ownership for master plans (up from 75% initially proposed); - Requiring parks within a half-mile walk of subdivisions, with parks under 3 acres maintained by an HOA; - Adding a 10-day review period for preliminary plat completeness; - Creating a waiver process for design standards. Staff noted that since 2020, the city added over 5,200 new single-family homes (12% of housing stock), and has a pipeline of 7.5 years of lot supply. Staff argued the updates balance development needs with long-term infrastructure quality and resident expectations. Board members expressed concerns about the language on HOA-maintained parks, the 90% ownership threshold, and the 10-acre master plan requirement. Commissioner Radosevich questioned the mandate for HOA maintenance, while Commissioner Gabaldon noted difficulty achieving high ownership percentages. Commissioner Tortorici praised staff's work but felt some items needed further refinement. Vote on Item 8 (Chapter 155 Text Amendment): Motion to approve failed 2-3 (Richardson, Hankins yes; Gabaldon, Radosevich, Tortorici no). Vote on Item 9 (DPM Resolution): Motion to approve failed 2-3 (Richardson, Hankins yes; Gabaldon, Radosevich, Tortorici no). Both items will be forwarded to the Governing Body with a recommendation of denial. Item 5: Final Plat – Los Diamantes Phase III Tim Dvorak presented the final plat for 141 single-family lots and 6 tracts on 22.63 acres zoned R-3. Staff recommended approval. The applicant (Justin Simonson, Isaacson & Arfman) noted a minor lot line adjustment to accommodate off-site drainage. No public comment. Approved unanimously. Item 6: Final Plat – Montreal Phase 2 Michelle Costilla presented the final plat for 31 single-family lots and 1 tract on 8.5 acres zoned R-1 and R-4. Staff recommended approval. Applicant Brian Aragon agreed with conditions. No public comment. Approved unanimously. Item 7: Zone Map Amendment – Cielo Bonito, LLC Tamarah Martinez presented a request to rezone 53.86 acres from TZ and R-3 to R-4 (single-family residential). Staff recommended denial because the applicant did not submit a master plan, which is required for areas over 50 acres. The applicant (Nicosia Schuttelbauer) noted that the Governing Body previously denied an R-3 request and suggested R-4. He presented a conceptual plan showing 5 phases, with only 3 phases having 100% ownership (overall ownership 70%). The board discussed the inability to approve only part of the request. The motion to approve failed 2-3 (Hankins, Richardson yes; Gabaldon, Radosevich, Tortorici no). The item will be forwarded to the Governing Body with a recommendation of denial. Key Outcomes - Item 4 (Withdrawn): Motion to withdraw approved unanimously. - Item 8 (Chapter 155 Text Amendment): Motion to recommend approval to Governing Body failed 2-3; recommendation of denial. - Item 9 (DPM Update): Motion to recommend approval to Governing Body failed 2-3; recommendation of denial. - Item 5 (Los Diamantes Phase III Final Plat): Approved unanimously. - Item 6 (Montreal Phase 2 Final Plat): Approved unanimously. - Item 7 (Cielo Bonito Zone Map Amendment): Motion to recommend approval to Governing Body failed 2-3; recommendation of denial.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body met on October 9, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting lasted approximately 13 minutes and included approval of the consent calendar, a first reading of a water and wastewater bond ordinance, and a resolution to place three general obligation bond questions on the March 3, 2026 ballot. All actions were approved unanimously by the six councilors present (Mayor Hull presiding). Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 25, 2025 Regular Meeting and September 19, 2025 Special Work Session were approved. - R108 – Resolution authorizing participation in the Transportation Project Fund Program (NMDOT) for the Barbara Loop Reconstruction Project. - R109 – Resolution authorizing a budget adjustment for Esther Bone Memorial Library and Veterans Monument Park parking lot improvements. - R110 – Resolution authorizing participation in the Transportation Project Fund Program for the Western Hills Drive Reconstruction Project. - R111 – Resolution authorizing disposal of obsolete equipment and office furniture (City Attorney's Office). - R112 – Resolution authorizing a budget adjustment for Fire Station 3 improvements. - R113 – Resolution authorizing a budget adjustment for Fire Station 8. - R114 – Resolution authorizing disposal of damaged or obsolete office furniture, equipment, and supplies (Municipal Court). - D52 – Appointment of Nathaniel McKenzie to the Ethics Panel. - D53 – Appointment of Patricia Camp to the Ethics Panel. Motion by Bob Tyler, seconded by Nicole List, carried 6-0. Public Forum - Alan Silverman (resident of Rio Rancho) expressed frustration with the delivery of psychological services, specifically criticizing Presbyterian for lack of accountability and the conditions at Central Desert Behavioral Health. He stated that mental hospitals are “destroying people, making them drug addicted, violent, and sending them out to the streets of Rio Rancho.” He called for mechanisms to regulate these behaviors and warned that first responders will have to deal with the consequences. First Reading of Ordinances Item 12: O26 – Ordinance authorizing issuance of up to $25,000,000 in Water and Wastewater System Improvement Revenue Bonds (Series 2026) - Carole Jaramillo, Director of Financial Services, presented: The City’s Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) totals $218.4 million from FY 2026–FY 2030. Approval enables issuance of utility bonds as planned during the rate study and ICIP adoption. Proceeds would fund: - Water projects: $109.3 million (water lines, storage, well improvements, water rights acquisition) - Wastewater projects: $104.1 million (sewer lines, lift stations, treatment facilities) - Recycled water projects: $5 million (new aquifer injection well, advanced water treatment facility) - The parameters ordinance establishes: aggregate principal not to exceed $25M, interest rate not to exceed 12%, final maturity no later than May 15, 2057, underwriters discount not to exceed 1% for negotiated sale. Delegates authority to Mayor, City Manager, and Finance Director to execute documents. - Motion by Karissa Culbreath, seconded by Bob Tyler, carried 6-0. Discussion & Deliberation Item 13: R115 – Resolution to place three General Obligation Bond questions on the March 3, 2026 municipal election ballot - Peter Wells, Deputy City Manager, presented: The resolution is based on input from the April meeting, 2025 citizen survey data, and recommendations from the Library Advisory Board, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Public Infrastructure Advisory Board. Total bond amount of $18,000,000 would be placed in three questions: - Roads: $12,435,000 - Public Safety: $4,365,000 - Quality of Life Facilities: $1,200,000 - Approval of the bonds by voters would leave the Municipal Debt Service Tax Rate unchanged (no property tax increase) because previously issued bonds have been retired. The proposed projects are listed in the agenda exhibits (Exhibit A: Roads, Exhibit B: Public Safety, Exhibit C: Quality of Life Facilities). - Motion by Bob Tyler, seconded by Paul Wymer, carried 6-0. City Manager's Report - Matt Geisel, City Manager, announced the Fall Festival at Haynes Park on Saturday, October 18, 2025, and encouraged attendance. - He noted that if voters support the GO bonds (particularly for roads), this will mark the sixth GO bond cycle since 2016. Combined with Transportation Project Fund (TPF) funding from NMDOT and revenue bonds, road work will occur in all six council districts in calendar years 2026–2027. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 6-0, including appointments to the Ethics Panel (Nathaniel McKenzie, Patricia Camp). - O26 (Water/Wastewater Revenue Bonds, up to $25M) approved 6-0 on first reading. - R115 (Resolution to place GO bond questions on March 3, 2026 ballot for $18M total) approved 6-0, with no property tax rate increase. - Meeting adjourned at 6:13 PM.

The Rio Rancho Governing Body met on September 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers, adjourning at 6:40 PM. The meeting included a public forum, consent calendar approval, withdrawal of one ordinance, and public hearings on a master plan amendment and zoning overlay for a solar energy project. All votes were 6-0 except for the main motions on the solar-related items, which passed 5-1. Public Forum - Tom Dixon (4938 Dream Dancer, Rio Rancho) spoke in support of the new East Coast Hockey League team coming to Rio Rancho. He urged the Governing Body to improve road signage on I-25, Highway 550, and Unser Boulevard to help visitors find the Rio Rancho Event Center, citing past teams' failure due to wayfinding issues. He encouraged attendance at the team's name announcement on Monday night. - Casey Robinson expressed concerns about the City's lack of recognition of Jewish holidays, specifically noting that the Mayor's Passover message tied it to Christianity and that no acknowledgment was made for Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur (the most important week of the Jewish year). He called for better understanding of the diverse religious backgrounds of residents. Consent Calendar - Items Approved (6-0): The Consent Calendar was approved unanimously, including: - Minutes of September 11, 2025, Regular Meeting - R103: Resolution Authorizing the Disposal of Fire and Rescue Department Property - R104: Resolution Authorizing a Budget Adjustment to the General Fund (Fire and Rescue Department) - R105: Resolution Authorizing a Budget Adjustment to the State Appropriations Capital Fund (315) - R106: Resolution Authorizing a Budget Adjustment to the General Fund (Police Department) Public Hearings O24 – Zoning Amendment (Rio Rancho Estates Units 22) - Withdrawn: Mayor Hull announced a request to withdraw O24, which would have rezoned two tracts from Transitional District and Unzoned District to R-3 Mixed Residential. The motion to withdraw passed 6-0, with no discussion. R107 – Resolution Amending the Loma Barbon Master Plan for Renewable Energy Addendum - Presentation: Amy Rincon, Director of Development Services, introduced R107 alongside O25 (see below). The applicant, Affordable Solar (represented by Laurie Moxe of Select ROW Consultants and Dylan Connelly), requested an amendment to the Loma Barbon Master Plan to allow a solar energy overlay on 80 acres of state land (owned by the New Mexico State Land Office) located off Highway 550 and Enchanted Hills. The Planning and Zoning Board (PZB) had recommended approval on August 26, 2025, with a 5-1 vote, and proposed an amendment requiring a 100-foot setback on the north and west property lines to the fence line. - Public Comments: - Casey Robinson spoke in opposition, alleging that Affordable Solar engaged in "pay-to-play" politics, citing a 2018 PRC case where campaign donations followed a favorable vote. He stated the company's contributions were made through multiple small donations to obscure the connection. - Ilse Hernandez Allen (Glendale, AZ, property owner within 100 feet of the site) expressed concern about the project's impact on her property taxes, ability to build, and future sale of her lot. She noted her property is within 100 feet of the proposed development. - Council Discussion: Councilor Culbreath asked about public outreach. The applicant stated they mailed notices to 163 parcels within 100 feet of the entire 600-acre master plan, and that the State Land Office required a 10-week advertising period for the lease. Councilor Tyler queried the City Manager about State Land Office open meeting requirements; the Manager noted that state land transactions typically include additional public outreach. Councilor Wymer clarified the roles: Moxe is a consultant to Select ROW, which is the agent for Affordable Solar; Connelly confirmed Affordable Solar will be the long-term developer, builder, owner, and operator of the project. Councilor Lenentine clarified that the project would not affect property values or taxes, as it is privately financed. - Amendment and Vote: Councilor Culbreath moved to amend R107 to include the 100-foot setback on the north and west property lines, as recommended by PZB. The amendment passed 6-0. The main motion (R107 as amended) then passed 5-1, with Councilor Tyler voting against. O25 – Ordinance Amending Zoning for Renewable Energy Overlay District (80 acres of Loma Barbon, Tract B) - Action: The ordinance was presented alongside R107. Councilor Wymer moved to amend O25 to align with the approved R107 amendment. The motion to amend passed 5-1 (Councilor Tyler opposed). The main motion to approve O25 (as amended) then passed 5-1, with Councilor Tyler again voting no. City Manager Report - Matt Geisel, City Manager, announced the latest City newsletter is available in print and online. Upcoming events: Parents' Night Out on October 3, 2025, at Sabana Grande (hosted by Parks and Recreation), and Fall Festival on October 18, 2025, at Campus Park (featuring a trunk-or-treat). He also highlighted that the citizen survey results (presented at the September 19 work session) led to Rio Rancho being recognized by Polco as a top-five performer nationwide in trust in government. The survey is available on the City website. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 6-0. - O24 withdrawn unanimously. - R107 (Loma Barbon Master Plan amendment) approved 5-1 after amendment to include a 100-foot setback on the north and west property lines. Councilor Tyler dissented. - O25 (Renewable Energy Overlay District) approved 5-1 after amendment. Councilor Tyler dissented. - Next Steps: The applicant will host another open house before submitting a site plan for future Governing Body consideration.

The Rio Rancho Planning and Zoning Board met on September 23, 2025, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The board approved three variance requests, including one over staff's denial recommendation, and received monthly staff reports. Board member Fred Radosevich was excused. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 9, 2025, Planning and Zoning Board meeting minutes by unanimous vote. Staff Reports - Planning and Zoning Monthly Summary Plat Report – August 2025 – Presented as a non-action item; no questions from the board. - Planning and Zoning Monthly Building Activity Report – August 2025 – Presented as a non-action item; no questions from the board. Public Hearings & Testimony Item 4 – Variance (Solano Builders, 404 Northern Blvd NE) - Staff recommended approval of a variance to reduce the minimum R-1 front lot width from 60 feet to 50 feet for a 3,208 sq ft dwelling. No public testimony was offered. The board approved unanimously. Item 5 – Variance (Solano Builders & Construction LLC, 121 9th Avenue NE) - Staff recommended approval of a variance to reduce the minimum R-1 front lot width from 60 feet to 50 feet for a single-family dwelling. No public testimony was offered. The board approved unanimously. Item 6 – Variance (Albert Martinez & Angela Crespin-Martinez, 6366 Roadrunner Loop NE) - Staff recommended denial of a variance to allow a 5-foot encroachment into the 20-foot front setback (to 15 feet) for a 500 sq ft addition to support a residential child care business. The applicants testified in favor, citing the need for a respite space away from the daycare, their service to first responders and military families, and the lack of feasible alternatives. No other public comments were received. Board members discussed the possibility of reorienting the addition to avoid the setback, but the applicants explained constraints. The board voted 4-2 to approve the variance (Commissioners Torterici, Hankins, Kofchur, and Richardson in favor; Vice Chair Gabaldon and Commissioner Hardesty opposed). Key Outcomes - Item 4 – Approved unanimously. - Item 5 – Approved unanimously. - Item 6 – Approved by a vote of 4-2, overriding staff’s recommendation for denial. - The board adjourned shortly after the votes.