If you’re feeling ambitious and want to cut your own Christmas tree, Lincoln National Forest will begin selling Christmas tree permits on November 14, 2024. The cost is $10 each plus a $2.50 processing fee with a limited number of permits available on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a limit of one permit per household. Online Christmas Tree Permits

The Village of Ruidoso's ICIP outlines 10 key capital projects, with 5 priorities for the upcoming legislative session. These include workforce housing, bridge replacements, street and drainage improvements, sewer line rehab and extensions, water line upgrades, Upper Canyon renovations, tree removal, watershed improvements, damage repairs, and Rio Ruidoso restoration. The projects aim to enhance infrastructure, safety, and sustainability.

The Village of Ruidoso (VOR) Workforce Housing Development at 603 Mechem is progressing with four of the ten homes on-site; the rest are expected by October 2024. Crews are preparing the sites, and utilities will be installed by January 2025. Berkshire Hathaway manages a waitlist for prospective residents. Contact 575-257-4011 for qualifications or 575-258-4343 ext. 1006 for project details.

The FEMA Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) Program begins tomorrow in Ruidoso, focusing on removing fire debris from properties affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires. Contractors will start clearing your property if you've signed up and submitted your Right of Entry (ROE) form. The deadline to participate is August 19, 2024. For assistance, visit the Horton Complex at 237 Service Road or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed House Bill 1, allocating $100 million for recovery from the South Fork and Salt fires and ongoing flooding. The funds include $10 million each for the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Energy Department, and Homeland Security, and $70 million in loans for local infrastructure projects. Residents can apply for FEMA assistance online, by phone, or at designated resource centers.

A Ruidoso Rising Community Distribution Event will take place on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Gateway Community Church, 415 Sudderth Drive, Ruidoso, NM. This event aims to provide essential supplies to residents in need, offering vital resources to support individuals and families during challenging times. Residents are encouraged to arrive early, as supplies are limited. Together, we rise stronger.

Ruidoso's Parks and Recreation Department has renovated the tennis courts at School House Park, which are now open and free to use. A new playground is also being installed. Funded by a grant, these enhancements have been in progress for months. Windscreens for the courts are on order and will be installed soon. These upgrades aim to improve recreational options for the community.

The Village of Ruidoso Community Development Department is transitioning all permits to a new online platform to simplify the process for customers. Business License Registration, Garage Sale, and Banner Permits are available online, and all permits will follow soon. Residents are encouraged to set up their portal log-in using the provided instructions to ensure seamless access as the system is fully implemented. Stay tuned for further updates.

The Village of Ruidoso announces the opening of a new Business Recovery Center at Ruidoso Public Library on July 3 to aid local businesses affected by recent wildfires. Operated in collaboration with the Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience and state and local authorities, it offers crucial resources and support during standard library hours.

Children ages 1 to 18 can enjoy free, healthy meals this summer at Lincoln County Medical Center's cafeteria. Breakfast is available Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and lunch is served daily from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM.

The Village of Ruidoso has formed a Short-Term Rental Sub-Committee to evaluate the impact of short-term rentals. A Town Hall Meeting will be held on June 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input on the ordinance. Your feedback is essential in shaping effective policies for our community's future.

Discover a new Ruidoso with Real Ruidoso | Ruidoso Real—a pioneering Village of Ruidoso tourism initiative. From inspiring stories of local heroes to the spotlight on independent businesses shaping the town's identity, Real Ruidoso invites travelers to go beyond the ordinary and forge genuine connections that will last a lifetime.

Don't miss the College and Job Fair at ENMU-Ruidoso hosted by New Mexico Workforce Connection. Open to all seeking work or educational opportunities, the event will feature representatives from schools, businesses, and the military. Drop by any time between 10 AM and 6 PM at ENMU-Ruidoso, 709 Mechem Dr, Ruidoso, NM. Contact 575-315-1120 for details.

Ensure your family's safety with a well-prepared disaster kit. Stock essentials like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and crucial documents. Include comfort items and cater to special needs like children, pets, elderly, and disabled family members. Contact Ruidoso's Office of Emergency Management for detailed readiness tips.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved the five-year update for the Lincoln County Multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan through March 19, 2029; Lincoln County, the Village of Ruidoso, the Town of Carrizozo, the Village of Capitan, and the Village of Corona are included in the approval. We anticipate Ruidoso Downs will also be included in the Approval in April. The final version of the Hazard Mitigation Plan is expected to be posted by the end of April for download here.

The Village of Ruidoso launches the 603 Mechem Drive project, advancing its workforce housing initiative. Ten new homes, blending modern convenience with traditional charm, are set to enrich the community. Key developments include upgraded utility lines, high-speed internet, and sustainable sewer/water systems. Construction activities promise transformation, underscoring Ruidoso's commitment to a vibrant and sustainable future.

Preserve Ruidoso's rich history at the Wingfield Heritage House Museum's Collections Open House. Share your artifacts and stories to enrich our community's narrative. Join us March 28-30, 2024.

Help us to create a positive change and lasting impact in Ruidoso by joining our 2024 Great American Cleanup on April 21 at Wingfield Park. There will be shirts, food, and prize giveaways for volunteers. Registration begins at 12:30, and clean up is from 1 to 4 pm. Gloves, vests, bags, and t-shirts are provided.

Discover VEAR, the Village Emergency Assistance Registry, a crucial resource for Ruidoso's vulnerable residents. Register online or by phone to ensure emergency responders understand and meet your specific needs during crises. Join VEAR today for enhanced safety and support in our community.

Lincoln County Community Theater and Oso Productions are teaming up to present a Performing Arts Meet and Greet at 3:00 p.m. on February 24, 2024, at Cree Meadows, 301 Country Club Drive. The event aims to unite individuals passionate about all aspects of the performing arts, from acting to costume design, production, sound engineering, and lighting. Whether you're a seasoned performer or curious about behind-the-scenes involvement, this event welcomes you.