RUIDOSO INSIDER

April 16, 2026, Village Council Meeting Highlights:

» Election of Rafael “Rifle” Salas as Mayor Pro Tem

» Confirmation of Appointed Officials

• Ronald Sena, Village Manager

• Yvonne Vigil, Village Clerk

• Steven Minner, Chief of Police

• Judi Starkovich, Treasurer

• Eric Queller, Emergency Manager

» Approval of Adoption of Resolution 2026-21 to Accept the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit

» Approval of Minimum Ticket Revenue Guarantee Agreement with Contour Air for Aire Service Operator for the Sierra Blanca Regional Airport

» Approval of Task Order RFP #2026-001P-01 with Souder, Miller and Associates for Engineering Services on the Design and Construction Observation of the Mechem Utility Relocation

» Approval of Task Order RFP #2026-001P-02 with Souder, Miller and Associates for Engineering Services on the Design and Construction Observation of the Ponderosa Heights Improvement Project

» Approval of Proposal from Lynco Electric Company, Inc for Eagle Creek Sports Complex Lighting Project

» Approval of Proposal from Mammoth Sports Construction for Installation of Artificial Turf Infield at the Eagle Creek Sports Complex

Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers at Village Hall

Construction of the 603 Mechem Workforce Housing Development is nearing completion. This workforce housing project aims to create long-term affordable housing to support both residents and the community.

The project was subsidized by the state through legislative appropriation funds. Additional grant funding was also recently obtained to achieve paving and siding improvements. The landscaping team has installed gravel in the front yard, laid the walkways, and will return to finish planting. For the electrical meters, five have been installed, and three are awaiting connection by PNM.

TriWest Fence will paint the interior side of the metal fence. Two of the homes are currently waiting on a final inspection from the Manufactured Housing Division due to the completion of additional grading work.

In addition, millings have been laid in the roadway, and Rymarc Construction began paving in April. Rymarc will also be remodeling the roofs and external siding on the cabins. The Village appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this commitment to improve workforce housing availability.

The Village of Ruidoso has implemented Level II Fire Restrictions effective March 10, 2026, at 12:00 noon to help reduce wildfire risk and protect our community during extremely dry conditions. These restrictions are an important step in keeping residents, visitors, homes, and natural areas safe.

Under the current restrictions, campfires, charcoal briquets, outdoor burning stoves, and outdoor smoking are prohibited. Gas and pellet cooking devices may still be used if always attended. Fire pit permits are temporarily suspended, and certain activities, such as welding or operating equipment powered by internal combustion engines, are subject to strict limitations.

• No smoking outside

• No campfires

• No fireworks

• No charcoal (gas & pellets OK)

• No Chainsaws or Welding without a Permit

ALL PERMITS FOR RECREATIONAL BURNING DEVICES ARE VOID UNTIL A RETURN TO LEVEL I

The public is encouraged to stay alert, follow all posted restrictions, and remain prepared for changing conditions as the community works together to reduce fire danger across the Village.

Wildfire Safety Tips:

» Follow all current fire restrictions and avoid any activity that could create a spark or open flame.

» Keep yards, roofs, gutters, and around structures free of dry grass, pine needles, leaves, and other flammable debris.

» Do not park vehicles on dry grass or vegetation, as hot exhaust systems can start fires.

» Make sure trailer chains are secured and not dragging, which can create sparks along roadways.

» Stay aware of local conditions, have an evacuation plan in place, and report smoke or fire immediately.

Community pride takes center stage Sunday, May 3, 2026, as Keep Ruidoso Beautiful hosts its annual Great American Cleanup. This nationwide initiative unites volunteers of all ages to improve local environments — and in Ruidoso, it’s a meaningful chance for residents to give back to the place they call home.

More than a litter pick-up, the Great American Cleanup is a coordinated effort to preserve the natural beauty that makes Ruidoso special. From scenic roadways and parks to neighborhoods and public spaces, volunteers will remove debris, enhance curb appeal, and promote environmental stewardship throughout the Village.

Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes — all supplies will be provided. Events like this are vital to maintaining Ruidoso’s reputation as a clean, welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike. The cleanup fosters shared responsibility and community pride that extends well beyond a single day. Keep

Ruidoso Beautiful emphasizes that small actions lead to lasting change. By coming together, volunteers not only beautify the village but also contribute to a culture of care and sustainability.

For meeting locations and times, follow local announcements or contact event organizers at 575-257-5030.

Save the date — and help keep Ruidoso clean, beautiful, and thriving!

Summer in the mountains is just around the corner, and the Village of Ruidoso is ready to welcome residents and visitors alike with the return of two of its most popular warm-weather attractions—the Ruidoso Municipal Swimming Pool and the Wibit Floating Water Park at Grindstone Lake.

Opening Memorial Day Weekend, both facilities provide family-friendly opportunities to cool off, stay active, and enjoy everything that makes Ruidoso a premier summer destination.

The Ruidoso Municipal Swimming Pool, located at 537 Sudderth Drive, will open to the public on May 23, 2026, with daily swim hours from 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Affordable and accessible, the pool offers a traditional swimming experience with access to a waterslide, making it a favorite for families, youth, and anyone looking to beat the summer heat. Admission is just $5 per person, and the facility will remain open for the season through early August.

For those looking for something a little more adventurous, the Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake delivers a one-of-a-kind experience. Opening the same weekend, this floating inflatable obstacle course features slides, climbing elements, trampolines, and balance challenges set against the scenic backdrop of the Sacramento Mountains.

Operating daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM through August 8, the Wibit offers high-energy fun for all ages, whether racing across obstacles or simply enjoying a day at the lake. Admission is $20 per person, with life jackets provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Beyond the water park itself, Grindstone Lake offers a full day of recreation, including fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking—making it easy for families to turn a visit into a full outdoor adventure.

Together, the pool and Wibit Water Park provide options for every type of summer day—whether it is a relaxing swim or an action-packed outing. These amenities not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also play an important role in supporting local tourism and community engagement.

As temperatures rise, these seasonal attractions serve as a reminder of what makes Ruidoso special: access to the outdoors, family-centered recreation, and a strong sense of community.

Mark your calendars for Memorial Day Weekend, and get ready to dive into summer in Ruidoso.

The Two Rivers Raw Water Intake and Transmission Project, also known as the Anaconda Line project, reconstructs the water diversion at Two Rivers Park. The original structure was created as an emergency measure during the Little Bear Fire to address water restriction levels still observed by the Village today.

Both the intake pump and waterline were damaged during the 2024 floods following the South Fork Fire. Funding was secured through the New Mexico Finance Authority as a 90% Water Trust Board grant valued at $5,160,000. Following the July 8, 2025, flooding event, the Village requested an additional $60,000 in design funding to address further flood concerns — including elevating the electrical control panel above base flood elevation, installing protective bollards upstream of the panel, and armoring the bending slopes around Two Rivers Park against erosion. This request was approved on September 25, 2025, and awarded on February 20, 2026.

Water Works Engineering is overseeing design and construction, with DUB-L-EE, LLC serving as contractor. Construction is scheduled to commence on May 31, 2026, with an estimated completion date of December 1, 2026. The project replaces the existing Raw Water pump station and 12” HDPE pipeline with a new permanent intake, pump station, and transmission line along Carrizo Road. The 1.75-mile waterline will be buried under Carrizo Road, bored under the highway west of the existing NMDOT bridge, and terminate at the Rio Ruidoso on the east end, continuing west to a pumping station below Grindstone Lake.

Due to the shallow profile of the Rio Ruidoso, a Coanda screen and self-cleaning mechanism will be installed in the river. The screen separates water from debris using approach velocity flowing over the screen, which acts as a weir — a passive intake that does not retain or hold water. Weir height varies across the river’s width to support fish passage upstream. A submersible turbine pump in marine-rated enclosures, paired with an elevated Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (E&IC) platform, will reduce project cost while integrating naturally with the park’s visual character. (See Figure 1) That cuts roughly 25% of the length while preserving all key details — funding figures, dates, contractors, technical specs, and the Coanda screen explanation.

We would like to congratulate Cattle Baron and Farley’s for celebrating 50 years in business. They celebrated by hosting a Business After Hours and Ribbon Cutting at both restaurants.

This past month, the Ruidoso Valley Greeters presented the April Champion of Service Award to Elizabeth Mason of Wells Fargo Bank. Elizabeth was recognized for her outstanding service. If you have received outstanding customer service here in Ruidoso, please come by the Chamber and fill out a nominating form.

Another favorite activity of the Greeters is distributing donations back into the community. In April, the following organizations were recognized and awarded donations: Angus Church of the Nazarene, LEAD Therapeutic Riding in Ruidoso Downs, Lincoln County Youth Agriculture Supporters, and Wreaths Across America. Proceeds from the Christmas Jubilee enable the Greeters to give back to community nonprofits.

We would like to welcome two new members to the chamber. CarnivorOso is a new nursery and gardening store located in the Gazebo Shopping Center in Midtown Ruidoso. They are Ruidoso’s home for carnivorous and unique plants. We celebrated their Grand Opening with a ribbon-cutting on April 25.

Another new chamber member is The Crow at Marty’s Golf House, located at 1129 Mechem Drive, Suite C, in Ruidoso. What a fun atmosphere with indoor golf simulators and golf instruction, a casual dining restaurant, and a sports lounge. When it’s a windy day, you can still get some golfing in at The Crow at Marty’s Golf House!

We also partnered with the Ruidoso Midtown Association to hold a Business After Hours at the Downshift Hidden Tap. This was a great evening of networking with our chamber members and Midtown merchants. Thanks to RMA Director Tim Duckworth and the Midtown Association for joining us for this great event.

As we head into the summer months, we must educate ourselves about the potential risks of flooding during the monsoon season. The Village of Ruidoso will be hosting three Community Flood Risk and Resilience Workshops on May 6, May 20, and June 3, 2026. Please make the time to attend one of these meetings. We attended the meeting held last summer, and the knowledge and understanding of our risks helped us be better prepared for the flooding events that occurred.

Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce works hard every day to make Ruidoso a better place to live, work, and play. If you would like to be a part of the organization that supports this community, give us a call at 575-257-7395. We are located inside the 1st National Bank at 451 Sudderth Drive. Stop by and visit us!

Ruidoso Municipal Schools continues to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our students across academics, leadership, and career pathways.

Correction from April 2026 Submission: Ruidoso High School Student Council earned statewide recognition as a Platinum Award Student Council of the Year, along with first place for Delegates’ Choice Scrapbook and recognition for their school service project. We are incredibly proud of their leadership and service to our school community.

We also celebrate an extraordinary individual achievement. Ruidoso High School student Benjamin Lewis has been selected as one of only two students from New Mexico to attend the prestigious 2026 National Youth Science Camp in West Virginia later this summer. This highly competitive program recognizes top students nationwide for academic excellence, leadership, and passion for STEM. Benjamin’s selection reflects his dedication and commitment to learning, and we look forward to all he will accomplish. He plans on attending UNM upon graduation, studying Environmental and Chemical Engineering.

Ruidoso High School students also demonstrated exceptional performance at the SkillsUSA New Mexico Conference held March 18–21, 2026, in Albuquerque. Thirty RHS students competed in a wide range of career and technical events, representing programs including culinary arts, welding, healthcare, automotive technology, drafting, photography, and public speaking.

We are especially proud to recognize our SkillsUSA state medal winners:

» Quiz Bowl Team (Gold): Ben Lewis, Sam McEwen, Alynah Lugo, Elliot Light, and Emmanuel Ruiz

» Gabriel Nelson (Gold): HVAC

» Chloe Koreny (Gold): Photography

» Casey Cox (Silver): Customer Service

These students will have the opportunity to represent Ruidoso and the state of New Mexico at the national level, a testament to their hard work, talent, and dedication. All participating students dedicated months of preparation through chapter meetings, fundraising, and local competitions to qualify for the state level. Their participation reflects both strong technical skills and a commitment to excellence.

These achievements reflect the strong support of our educators, families, and community, and we are proud of how our students represent Ruidoso with excellence. To celebrate our graduating seniors, please join us for the Ruidoso High School Graduation Ceremony on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 4:00 PM, at Horton Stadium.

In mid-April, I had the opportunity to attend the Main Street America Conference in Tulsa, OK. It was a great chance to meet other Executive Directors and staff from around the country! Main Street America shared a compelling overview of US Route 66 and its deep historical significance. Route 66 traces portions of early Indigenous trails, later serving as a critical migration route west during the Dust Bowl, a major travel route during World War II, and eventually becoming one of the first fully paved highways connecting Chicago to Santa Monica - earning its nickname “The Main Street of America.”

With the upcoming 100-year anniversary, there is a strong emphasis on the eight states Route 66 serves and the role each has played in preserving this historical corridor. As travelers return to Route 66 during the centennial celebration, they will witness the impact of our New Mexico MainStreet programs, which have transformed many once-declining historic communities into thriving destinations that preserve their history while driving tourism and economic growth.

On June 20, 2026, Brewdoso celebrates the New Mexico craft brewing, winemaking, and distilling industries. We will have food and craft vendors from around the state, as well as family fun activities for all. This year’s musical line-up includes The Driveway Dive Band, The Tejas Brothers, and FUNGI MUNGLE! Tickets for the event will be available online soon!

We would also like to welcome two new businesses to our Ruidoso Midtown:

» Just Right Construction - Located next to Re-Store. Need a renovation to your home, addition, or from the ground up? Just Right Construction is your stop.

» Carnivoroso - This cool place, located in the Gazebo Shopping Center, has all kinds of interesting plants, including Redwood trees that do well in our location.

As always, check us out on Instagram @midtown_ruidoso and online at RuidosoMidtownAssociation.com.

For year-round safety, be sure to sign up for weather alerts and Village of Ruidoso notifications at callmeruidoso.com. These updates are helpful for all seasons.

Lincoln County Medical Center is expanding its commitment to whole-person care with the launch of Southern Roots, a produce prescription program designed to improve maternal and child health outcomes, support the health of families across Lincoln County, and expand access to care in rural communities.

Southern Roots reflects a growing understanding that improving health requires addressing both clinical care and everyday factors that influence well-being. The program:

• Builds on the strong foundation of prenatal and pediatric care already available at LCMC by addressing a critical need in rural communities: access to healthy food and support in navigating healthcare services.

• Connects families to fresh fruits and vegetables, nutrition education, and Community Health Worker support, working together to improve health outcomes for both parents and children.

• Serves pregnant and postpartum individuals, as well as children ages 3-11, helping ensure families receive support during key stages of growth and development.

Participants receive ongoing support throughout the 16-week program, including coordinated access to fresh produce and connections to services that support prenatal care, postpartum health, and well-child visits.

Community Health Workers assist with linking patients to resources in the community and provide hands-on support with:

» Scheduling and attending medical appointments

» Navigating Medicaid, WIC, and other services

» Accessing healthy food through the program

» Staying engaged in care throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and early childhood through coordination with care teams

Since 2013, Presbyterian Community Health has been implementing a variety of Food Is Medicine programs, including the Food Farmacy in Albuquerque and the Northern Roots family produce Rx program in northern New Mexico. Families who are pregnant, postpartum, or have children ages 3-11 can talk to their Presbyterian provider to learn more and get connected.

ENMU-Ruidoso hosted a Fire Academy Graduation Ceremony on March 21, 2026.

Career & Technical Education Director Gray Mowery welcomed attendees, and Assistant Fire Chief Austin Meuli celebrated the graduates, recognizing their dedication and thanking families for their support. Meuli also honored the program’s instructors: Lt. Alec Davis, Lt. Price Bowen, Lt. Tony Nanz, and Lincoln County Operation of Emergency Services (LCOES) Coordinator Brian Samson.

The Fire Academy graduates include:

» Wesley Moore, Bonito Fire Department

» Christopher Halcomb, Nogal Fire Department

» Trenton Hall, Ruidoso Fire Department

» Sarah Perkins, Nogal Fire Department

» Eugene Hopper, Hondo Fire Department

» Kevin Torrez, Hondo Fire Department

» Floyd Hobbs, Nogal Fire Department

» Peter (Josh) Payan, Nogal Fire Department

» Mirissa Good, Ruidoso Fire Department

» Blake Temple, Ruidoso Fire Department

» Waylon Word, Nogal Fire Department

» Thomas (Tony) Goetz, Ruidoso Fire Department

» JR Montoya, Nogal Fire Department

» Jimmy Bullock, Bonito Fire Department

» Layson Powell, Ruidoso Fire Department

» Stetson Lewis, Mescalero Fire Department

The Fire Academy was made possible through ENMU-Ruidoso’s selection as one of 15 nationwide recipients in Year 7 of the prestigious Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI). A $75,000 grant enhanced both non-credit wildland and structural fire academies and a credit-bearing Fire Science degree pathway, serving:

» Volunteer firefighters who sought foundational certification and advancement

» Recent high school graduates pursuing public safety careers through degree and non-degree pathways

» Dual credit high school students seeking early entry into fire service pathways and industry-aligned credentials

» Rural residents and tribal community members who face geographic and economic barriers to training access

» Veterans and career changers entering the fire service with transferable skills

» Current first responders and emergency personnel seeking upskilling, advanced certifications, or academic credit for prior learning to improve their professional mobility and leadership readiness

“These funds directly supported 27 students through scholarships, short-term fire academy enrollment, and expanded student support services,” said Vice President of Student Learning and Success Coda Omness.

Wildfires across New Mexico and the western U.S. are straining local resources. Volunteer departments — nearly 70% of statewide fire response capacity — are underfunded, understaffed, and lack access to accredited training, a gap even wider in rural and tribal communities. Federal agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and New Mexico State Forestry, face critical workforce shortages as well. This initiative addresses the crisis with accessible, scalable training that strengthens the volunteer pipeline and broader emergency response infrastructure.

To learn more, visit Ruidoso.ENMU.edu or call 575-315-1120. Enrollment is open for summer and fall classes.

Stay Connected with Ruidoso

Mondays with the Mayor
Tune in to 1490Krui.com at FM 99.1 and AM 1490 radio every Monday from 8:00 – 10:00 AM to hear the latest from Mayor Lynn Crawford. Feel free to call or text with your questions.

Follow Us on Social Media
Stay up to date with all the latest news and events:

• Website: ruidoso-nm.gov

• Facebook: Village of Ruidoso

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.