RUIDOSO INSIDER

STATE OF THE VILLAGE

The annual State of the Village serves as a comprehensive overview of the current state of our community, highlighting achievements, challenges, and the path forward. It reflects on the collective progress we have made, the resilience that our community continues to show in the face of challenges, and the unity that makes this such a great community to be a part of. The State of the Village report is not just a compilation of facts and figures but a testament to our shared efforts and aspirations that define us. The complete State of the Village Report can be viewed here >>.

Financial Stability

The Village began FY 2025 with a cash balance of $53.0M and is currently projecting revenues at $112.3M, which amounts to $165.3M of available cash to spend. Several capital projects were rolled over from FY 2024, and the Village has been very successful in securing grants for these projects. As of December 2024, the Village’s operating budget for personnel, operations, and capital outlay totaled $112.4M.

Some of the grant funded capital projects include the Airport’s Taxiway A Rehabilitation, Water Trust Board Grants for several water infrastructure projects, FEMA sewer line and bridges, and several legislative appropriations. Therefore, anticipated ending cash balance for FY 2025 is projected at $52.9M. All other revenue categories, especially Gross Receipts Taxes, are performing at budget, even though we have seen decreases in other taxes because of the South Fork Fire. The Village received a $44M loan from the State of NM Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) to help offset some of the costs of fixing damages from the South Fork Fire. The Village was advanced half of the funds, and as we receive FEMA reimbursements, the Village will repay back the loan. In addition, in FY 2024, Council passed a rate increase for utilities that took effect on July 1, 2024 (FY 2025).

Gross Receipts Tax

The Village has seen a decrease in GRT due to the fire, however, since Village Council has always been conservative in budgeting revenues, we will still meet budget, even though we are down in GRT. In October, the Village received a lump sum of $864,618 in GRT taxes from correction of CRS-1 reports from a local grocer for a period of seven (7) months, this figure is not included in the charts because it would skew figures. Please refer to the monthly financial report for December for more information.

Lodgers’ Tax

Another revenue area that is suffering from the fire is Lodgers’ Tax. The revenues from housing workers for extended stays is the main cause of the decrease because lodgers’ tax is not collected on this revenue. Currently, as of December 2024, we are down 45.24%. Beginning cash balance of $1.5M is being used to pay for current expenditures.

Debt Financing

The Village recently issued its Series 2024 General Obligation (GO) Bonds for water infrastructure projects. The bond cycling program began in 2014, and this is the eleventh issuance for a total of $16,500,000 in available funding. The GO Bonds are publicly supported funding options from a 1.5 mill levy on property taxes voters approved in the March 2024 election. During the March 2026 election, voters will decide whether to continue with the Mill Levy GO Bonds. The outstanding balance on these bonds is $9,315,000 on December 31, 2024.

Debt – Bond Rating

Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch rated several of the Village’s bond issues. The Village maintains an upper-medium to high-grade rating on its bonds. A bond credit rating represents the creditworthiness of a government entity.

Debt – Go Capacity

State Statutes limit the general obligation debt a governmental entity may issue to four percent (4%) of the total average valuation. The current debt limit for the Village is $25,311,726, which is significantly more than the Village’s outstanding general obligation debt, which totaled $9,315,000 as of December 31, 2024.

Public Infrastructure and Facility Projects

In FY 2025, the Village has started work on over $11M of capital projects most of which are continuation of projects started in prior years. Some of these projects include the FEMA Restoration of the existing sewer line and lift stations, FEMA Bridges, Pinecliff subdivision water line replacement, Public Safety Building (Horton Complex). As the Village completes these projects they also serve as an economic impact strategy to help stimulate the economy with a spending multiplier effect by generating GRT revenue to the Village.

In addition, a third of the projects are financed by grants obtained from both Federal and State Agencies. Construction of South Fork Fire recovery projects will allow the Village to create its own GRT that will help cash balances, however, this may be two (2) years down the road.

Audit

The results of our Fiscal Year 2023 Audit were released and resulted in two (2) findings and no material weaknesses. The Village completed the Fiscal Year 2024 audit on time, and it is currently under review by the New Mexico State Auditor’s Office (SAO). The audit results will become a public record in late March 2025. The overall financial health of the Village of Ruidoso remains robust, and both governmental and proprietary funds reported increases to the net position, thus exceeding required reserves and increasing the Village’s cash position.

2025 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Capital Outlay Requests & NMML Priorities

The 60-day 2025 Legislative Session began on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, and will end at noon, on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

During the session, the following Capital Outlay requests, as approved by the Village Council in the ICIP, will be submitted for project funding consideration:

» Workforce Housing ($1,000,000)

» Bridge Replacement Construction ($3,000,000)

» Street and Drainage Improvements ($1,000,000)

» Sewer Infrastructure Projects ($1,000,000)

» Fire and Watershed Improvements ($750,000)

» Purchase & Equip a Mobile Command Unit ($2,400,000)

New Mexico Municipal League members and staff have spent the interim developing key legislative priorities through the NMML’s policy process, and meeting with legislators and other stakeholders to share municipalities’ interests. The Municipal League Board of Directors approved the League’s 2025 legislative priorities at its October 4, 2024 meeting, with a focus spanning emergency service, infrastructure, public records, water security, and protecting local authority.

These priorities are not exhaustive, and as always, the League’s legislative team assesses bills throughout the session to determine potential municipal impacts, and, in consultation with the League’s Executive Committee, determines positions of support or opposition, if necessary. League staff send out a weekly legislative bulletin during the session to update members on how priority bills are faring, identify new bills with potential municipal impacts, and request League member assistance to support or oppose bills.

Below is an overview of the top initiatives NMML will champion to empower communities around the state:

» Amplify the Impact of Emergency Medical Services Funding

» Invest in State and Local Road Infrastructure

» Modernize the Inspection of Public Records Act

» Modernize the Municipal Code

» Invest in Water Infrastructure Projects

» Protect Local Decision-Making Against Preemption

Winter Weather

As the seasons shift, so do the hazards in the environments. When the cold temperatures arrive, ice and snow accumulation become the primary concern. Ice and snow can lead to slip-and-fall accidents, obstructed pathways, and dangerous driving conditions. Here are some tips for safely removing ice and snow from your home and property:

» Snow Removal Techniques: Start shoveling as soon as possible after snow falls. This prevents it from compacting into ice, making it easier to remove. Be sure to clear walkways, driveways, and access points to your home. For large areas or heavy snowfalls, a snowblower can save time and effort. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation. When shoveling, avoid lifting snow. Instead, push the snow to the side to avoid strain and injury.

» De-icing Methods: Sodium chloride is commonly used to melt ice, but it can be harmful to plants, pets, and concrete surfaces. Use it sparingly and opt for alternatives like calcium chloride if needed. Sand does not melt ice, but it can provide traction, helping to reduce slip hazards. Consider using eco-friendly de-icing products that are less harmful to the environment. Products made from potassium acetate or magnesium chloride are safer alternatives.

» Preventing Ice Formation: Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water from pooling and refreezing on the roof. Install heating cables along roof edges to prevent ice dams from forming. Seal any cracks in the driveway or sidewalks to prevent water from seeping in and freezing. This will help minimize the damage caused by ice expansion.

» Slip Prevention: When walking on icy or snowy surfaces, wear boots or shoes with good traction to prevent slips. Place non-slip mats or rugs near entrances to wipe off snow and ice before going inside. Ensure that walkways, stairs, and driveways are properly cleared and deiced to avoid accidents.

Winter conditions present unique challenges, but with proactive safety measures and proper preparation, the risks can be greatly reduced. Ensuring that ice and snow do not impede mobility and safety, and being vigilant and prepared is key. Keep property safe and secure and always stay informed of local weather conditions to be ready for any emergency.

By following the tips outlined here, you can protect your home, loved ones, and community from the dangers associated with winter moisture hazards.

The Humane Society of Lincoln County is offering free spay/neuter services on February 25, 2025, at the shelter for World Spay Day. Registration begins on February 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Humane Society Animal Shelter located at 255962 Highway 70. There are limited spots available for these services.

If pets are not already vaccinated or microchipped, these services can be purchased along with the free spay/neuter service.

Did you know that cats can have up to 12 kittens and dogs can have up to16 puppies in only one year? The only way to decrease the overpopulation of homeless animals in this community is to stop unnecessary litters.

For more information go to hslcnm.org, call (575)257-9841, scan the QR code, or visit the shelter.

Ruidoso Municipal Schools Invests in Modern, State-of-the-Art Facilities: $1.2M Culinary Arts Renovation and $16.7M High School Upgrades Underway

The Ruidoso Municipal School District is making significant investments to modernize its facilities, creating safe, functional, and inspiring learning environments for students and staff. A $1.2 million renovation of Ruidoso Middle School’s culinary arts classroom will provide state-of-the-art workstations, upgraded equipment, improved safety systems, and enhanced aesthetics, enabling students to engage in deeper, hands-on learning experiences. Additionally, a $16.7 million project at Ruidoso High School, supported by matching funds from the Public-School Capital Outlay Council, will focus on critical upgrades, including HVAC, plumbing, lighting, and locker room renovations. These initiatives reflect the district’s dedication to fostering innovation and excellence for years to come.

Read More —>

We are excited about the upcoming year and the events we have planned. One of our most important events will be February 5, 2025 at the Herve’ Wine Bar in Santa Fe. Every year we hold the Lincoln County Day Legislative Reception in Santa Fe. This reception gives our Chamber members and businesses in Lincoln County the opportunity to speak one-on-one with our legislators. This year more than ever we need to make sure we bring our concerns to our legislators. If we do not speak up, then we cannot expect our needs to be met. The Legislative Session began on January 21, 2025 and will run through March 22, 2025. The public is invited to the reception.

Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by calling the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce at 575-257-7395.

Vines in the Pines Wine Festival

Almost immediately following our Santa Fe Reception, we will be hosting our Vines in the Pines Wine Festival on February 15-16, 2025 at the Ruidoso Convention Center. We will have New Mexico wineries present as well as food and other boutique vendors. We have added live music to the event. This is a great opportunity to indulge in some wine tasting while enjoying local art, crafts, food, boutique vendors and local brews available for those who are not wine drinkers. Tickets are available at HoldMyTicket.com or at the door.

If you are a member of the Chamber and would like to host a Business After Hours, we have openings and would love to get one scheduled for you. Please reach out to us at the chamber at 575-257-7395. If you are not a member of the chamber, we would be happy to discuss chamber membership with you. We are an organization that is committed to making Ruidoso a better place to live, work and play. Our mission is to foster development, growth and prosperity in Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, Lincoln County, and the surrounding area.

Learn more at RuidosoNow.com

Lincoln County Medical Center’s Employee Garden: Growing Health and Wellness Year-Round

Lincoln County Medical Center is highlighting the benefits of gardening this winter, inspired by their Employee Garden, a green space at the hospital that provides fresh produce and stress relief for staff. Beyond its physical rewards, gardening offers proven mental health benefits, as studies show it can reduce stress, improve mood, and even support dementia treatment. While mountain gardening can be challenging, LCMC’s thriving garden proves it’s possible with effort, encouraging the community to start small, like growing tomatoes in a pot on the porch.

Read More —>

New Ruidoso Midtown Association President Tim Duckworth Brings Passion and Experience to Drive Community Growth

I grew up in Texas and never thought I would want to leave – that is until I started visiting my in-laws in Ruidoso about 14 years ago. After moving my daughter to college at the University of Arkansas, my wife and I moved to the lovely Village of Ruidoso. Now I cannot imagine living anywhere else.

When I witnessed first-hand how resilient the people of Ruidoso are after the devastating fires and floods, I knew I had to find a way to get more involved in our community.

I came to RMA with many years of experience in customer relations and project management, working at EDS/Hewlett Packard and, most recently at CitiTurf (a large landscaping company in North Texas). I am looking forward to utilizing my experience and skills to bring fun activities and economic growth to Midtown and beyond. I truly believe that by working with the major stakeholders of this community, there is nothing we cannot do to put us on a much bigger map.

Though I have only been the director for six weeks, I was very excited to see the number of visitors we had in Midtown during the holiday season. It was two straight weeks of packed Midtown stores and restaurants. This is a great new beginning for Midtown and Ruidoso. We already have some great new ideas in the works to help accelerate what we are seeing.

Learn more at RuidosoMidtownAssociation.com

The Department of Solid Waste reminds everyone that grapple service slows down during January to assist with extra pick-ups of dumpsters and the transportation of trash to the landfill. It is important that all slash and pine needles be placed next to the dumpsters or on edge of property in one single pile. This allows for the grapple truck to pick up more efficiently. Be sure there are no powerlines above the pile and that there is a sufficient area for the grapple truck to anchor for a safe pickup. Logs should be piled separately. Please do not place slash, needles, or logs in the road.

A few reminders about trash protocols:

» Residents and visitors may use any residential dumpster in the area. Please do not use commercial dumpsters to dispose of trash.

» Remember to break down cardboard boxes and dispose of them in the blue recycling dumpsters if possible.

» Please be diligent in closing the dumpster lids after every visit to prevent bear messes.

» When disposing of extra-large items that will fill the dumpsters, place the item next to the dumpster and call Solid Waste to pick it up at 575-257-1502.

Stay Connected with Ruidoso

Mondays with the Mayor
Tune in to 1490Krui.com or 1490 AM 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.