First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you who took the time to go to the polls and make your voice heard. Democracy works when communities show up, and Ruidoso showed up.
I am both honored and humbled to have been elected to serve a third term as your mayor. The margin of victory was narrow, and I do not take that lightly. It is a reminder that this community has high expectations — expectations I intend to meet. There is still much work ahead of us, and I am committed to doing that work alongside each of you.
I also want to sincerely thank Josh Richardson for his willingness to put his name on the ballot and engage in the civic process. That kind of commitment to community is something we should all appreciate and respect.
Congratulations are in order for Darren Hooker, Everett Brophy and Adam Sanchez on their election to the Village Council. I look forward to working closely with them over the next four years as we continue to move Ruidoso forward. I also want to recognize Jason Gipson and Steve Silva for their willingness to step up and serve. The courage to run for public office is never lost on me, and I am grateful for their commitment to this community.
As we welcome new voices to the Council, we must also pause to recognize two individuals whose dedicated service is coming to a close. Councilors Joe Eby and Gary Jackson have given their time, energy, and commitment to the Village of Ruidoso, and that service has not gone unnoticed. On behalf of the entire community, thank you, gentlemen — your contributions have made a lasting difference.
I would also be remiss if I did not offer a big thank you to the community for overwhelmingly passing the General Obligation Bond question on the ballot. Your support of that measure means we can continue to upgrade and maintain the infrastructure that keeps Ruidoso running — roads, utilities, and the essential services our residents and visitors depend on every day. That vote was a clear statement that this community is invested in its own future, and I am grateful.
On another important note, residents will soon begin to see more information becoming available regarding the NRCS/USDA property buy-back program, which will be managed by Lincoln County. As the county works to finalize the process, we will ensure that details are shared clearly and promptly so that affected residents can make informed decisions. Stay tuned to Village channels for updates as they become available.
Finally, as we move deeper into spring, I want to remind everyone to remain vigilant during what is shaping up to be an active fire season. Please follow all fire restrictions, stay informed through official Village communications, and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. The safety of our community depends on each of us doing our part.
It is my honor to serve as your mayor. Together, we will continue the work of recovery, renewal, and resilience. And don’t forget to listen to Mondays with the Mayor every Monday from 8:00-10:00 AM on KRUI 1490 AM/99.1 FM.
Mayor Lynn Crawford
Mayor Lynn Crawford
VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS
Recent Actions
March 10, 2026, Village Council Meeting Highlights:
» Recognition of Councilors Gary Jackson and Joseph Eby for their Years of Service to the Village of Ruidoso.
» Approval of Application Submitted by Still Wild NM LLC, Located at 2515 Sudderth Dr., Ruidoso, NM, for Craft Distiller Liquor License with On-Premises Consumption and Package Sales License #BLA-0000016142.
» Approval of Agreement with CUTLER Repaving, Inc. through the New Mexico Statewide Price Agreement No. 30-80500-23-17018 for Pavement Patching on Cree Meadows Drive, Meander Drive, and White Mountain Meadows Drive in the Amount of $931,399.17 Including NMGRT.
» Approval of Request to Schedule Public Hearing at the Special Meeting on March 24, 2026 for Adoption of Ordinance 2026-10, an Ordinance Amending the Village of Ruidoso Municipal Code of Ordinances Chapter 54, Land Use; Article II- Land Development Code; Division 4-Zoning Districts; Section 54-72 – Overlay Zones; and Appendix A—Fees, Fines, and Penalties.
Next Council Meeting: Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM in Council Chambers at Village Hall.
RUIDOSO FIRE DEPARTMENT
Ruidoso Fire Department ISO Retrogression
The Ruidoso Fire Department has moved from an ISO Class 2 to a Class 3 rating following a May 2024 survey that revealed a score of 70.08 — below the 80.00 threshold required to maintain Class 2 status. After implementing a one-year retrogression plan approved by ISO in December 2024, the department’s score improved to 74.42, placing it firmly in the Class 3 range (70.00–79.99), but not enough to retain the Class 2 designation.
The retrogression plan addressed several areas of point loss identified in the 2024 survey, including hydrant inspections and flow testing, training documentation, response protocols, and software implementation for proper record-keeping. Despite the department’s diligent work throughout 2025, ISO confirmed in December 2025 that Class 2 status could not be maintained.
The most significant point losses compared to the 2016 survey were in hydrant inspection and flow testing, deployment analysis, and ladder/service company coverage. The department is now focused on a clear path forward to regain its Class 2 rating, including plans to purchase a second ladder truck for Station 2, increase staffing to four personnel per truck, continue annual hydrant inspections and flow testing, improve training documentation, pursue a CAD system for dispatch, and enhance community risk reduction documentation.
The Village of Ruidoso remains committed to transparency and to restoring the Class 2 rating. For the complete report, including detailed point comparisons and the full action plan, visit Ruidoso-NM.gov
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
READY, SET, GO! Be Prepared for Wildfires in Ruidoso
Wildfire season is here, and in Ruidoso, preparation is key to keeping this community safe. The Ready, Set, GO! program is designed to help residents prepare for wildfires, act quickly when danger arises, and evacuate safely when necessary. Now is the time to get READY!
Ready
Ready –Prepare Now
Being READY means taking proactive steps before there is threat of a wildfire.
• Create a defensible space: Clear dry vegetation at least 30 feet around homes. Trim trees and keep gutters clear of debris.
• Harden your home: Use fire-resistant materials, cover vents with metal mesh, and keep flammable items away from structures.
• Have an emergency plan: Identify multiple evacuation routes, designate a meeting point for family members, and ensure emergency alerts can be received. Visit www.CallMeRuidoso.com
• Assemble a Go-Kit: Include essential documents, medications, clothes, food, water, and pet supplies. Visit www.ready.gov/kit
Set
Set –Be Alert
When a wildfire starts, stay informed and be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• Monitor local emergency notifications via the Village of Ruidoso’s emergency alert system, social media, website, and local news on KRUI.
• Ensure car has a full tank of gas and is parked facing out of the driveway.
• Gather emergency supplies, load vehicle, and be prepared to leave.
• Don’t be afraid to leave early. Don’t wait for an official evacuation order.
Go! GO! –Evacuate Immediately
If an evacuation order is given, GO without hesitation. Safety is the priority.
• Follow emergency evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts, as roads may be closed or unsafe.
• Leave early to avoid being trapped by fire, smoke, or blocked roads.
• Check in with emergency shelters or family to confirm location.
The Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management is working hard to keep residents safe, but wildfire preparedness starts with each individual! Be informed, make a plan, build a kit, and get involved.
If a wildfire starts, BE READY!
MAY 15-17, 2026
Wingfield Park
NEW MEXICO MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
2026 Legislative Session Update
While the priority was passing the state’s budget bill, the 2026 legislative session was also filled with significant policy legislation including medical malpractice reform and universal childcare. Overall, 686 bills were introduced, with 74 of them passing the Legislature. A League supported bill, House Bill 109 (Garratt), which streamlines the funding process for water projects through the New Mexico Finance Authority (NMFA) through the temporary removal of legislative authorization, was one that passed and is now headed to the Governor’s desk
For the League, much of the legislative session was devoted to fighting against preemption attempts and harmful gross receipts tax (GRT) deduction proposals. In response to the affordable housing shortage seen in some parts of the state, a handful of legislators introduced bills that sought to preempt local government authority, especially in the areas of planning and zoning. The proposed one-size-fits-all mandates, ranging from eliminating restrictions on building heights to requiring burdensome housing data reporting, failed to gain traction this session as most legislators heard the municipal concerns raised in committee and defended local decision-making.
The importance of maintaining a strong and stable local tax base also resonated with the Legislature this session. The omnibus tax package (Senate Bill 151) reduces local government revenue by a relatively small amount and did not include tax proposals that contained large revenue losses to local governments.
Lawmakers approved House Bill 99, the medical malpractice reform bill aimed at stabilizing rising medical malpractice insurance premiums and improving healthcare access by making the state more attractive to healthcare providers. The bill ultimately passed the Senate with bipartisan support (40-2) after being heavily amended by SJC and subsequently, having those amendments removed on the Senate floor to restore the bill to its form coming out of the House.
As predicted, one of the session’s main policy focuses was funding universal childcare. Lawmakers approved Senate Bill 241, establishing the program in state law and making childcare free for all families (if the program faces future financial challenges due to economic conditions, high-earning families would have co-payments).
The Legislature also approved a resolution for paid legislators that would have to be approved by voters. The Legislature recently passed House Joint Resolution 5. The resolution proposes paying state lawmakers a salary (set at the median household income in New Mexico, currently about $68,000). The resolution was adopted as part of final 2026 session activity and will go to New Mexico voters to decide in November 2026.
Village of Ruidoso Capital Outlay 2026
» Two million five hundred thousand dollars ($2,500,000) to acquire property, easements and rights of way for and to plan, design, construct and equip sewer line improvements in Ruidoso in Lincoln County.
» Two million five hundred thousand dollars ($2,500,000) to plan, design, construct and repair street improvements in Ruidoso in Lincoln County.
Lean More
WATER PRODUCTION
Two Rivers Raw Water Intake and Transmission Project
The Anaconda Line project involves replacing the existing Raw Water (RW) pump station and 12” High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) with a new permanent intake, pump station, and transmission pipeline. The project area is located along Carrizo Road on the southwest edge of the Village of Ruidoso. The proposed water transmission line improvements will include the burial of an existing line approximately 1.75-mile water transmission line under Carrizo Road. This waterline will be bored under the highway west of the existing NMDOT bridge and will terminate at the Rio Ruidoso on the east end. The line will be buried under the road, continuing west to a pumping station below Grindstone Lake.
The Village had been using a trailer pump to transport Raw Water (RW) from the Rio Ruidoso to the Pump Back Basin. The existing intake pump station was located adjacent to the confluence of the Rio Ruidoso and Carrizo Creek. After leaving the pump station, the 12” HDPE pipe crossed under the NMDOT NM 48 bridge. Before the flooding, the pipe was hung on elevated pipe supports attached to the bridge. After the flooding events, the pipe was knocked off and sat at the bottom of Carrizo Canyon. After passing NMDOT NM 48, the pipeline runs along the side of Carrizo Canyon Road, Grindstone Canyon Road, and Resort Drive to the Pump Back Basin. The Pump Back Basin holds the pumped Raw Water (RW) as well as the seepage from the reservoir. In response to the recent flood events, the 2024 high-water mark elevation will be used as the controlling elevation, which translates to a minimum elevation of 6561 for facilities above the flood plain.
This pipe is not used to divert water, but it is an operation and maintenance outflow used on occasion to clear out the pump. The amount of water that can be diverted from the Rio Ruidoso on an annual basis is limited by the provision outlined in the water diversion permits.
A Coanda screen will be built in the river, which seems ideal for the Rio Ruidoso location, given the shallower profile needed, as well as a self-cleaning mechanism. A Coanda screen separates water from debris, using the approach velocity going over the screen, which acts as a weir. The weir height across the width of the river will vary to accommodate fish integration and swimming upstream. This layout will give fish a priority, providing a self-cleaning intake mechanism during higher flows. A submersible turbine pump configuration within marine-rated enclosures and an elevated Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (E&IC) platform will be built at the park. This will prevent extensive flood permitting, keep the project cost down, and ensure the pump station blends in better with the park’s aesthetics. This requires the Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (E&IC) panel to be installed above the 2024 High Water Mark
RUIDOSO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
From the Desk of Executive Director Deborah Douds
Spring is in the air, and we’re busy at the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce getting ready for the summer season! Our Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony will be held on June 26 at Inn of the Mountain Gods. We will announce this year’s Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, and the Beautification Award. We welcome nominations for our awards, and if you know of a deserving business, volunteer, or business that has a beautification project, please email membership@ruidosonow.com. Save the date for this year’s Ruidoso Art Festival, July 24-26 at the Ruidoso Convention Center. This is a juried fine art show, and the application for artists who are interested in applying is open through April 20, 2026 on zapplication.org.
The Ruidoso Valley Greeters are the philanthropic extension of the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce and an exceptional group of ladies. Every year in November, they host the Christmas Jubilee. Proceeds from the Jubilee are then donated back to many of our local nonprofits. In February and March, they began their pledge donations with gifts to All Season Adaptive Sports, Animal Village NM, Nourishing Nation, and the Capitan Public Library. In April and May, they will continue with donations to more local nonprofits. Another one of the favorite things the Greeters do is honor someone who has shown exemplary service and dedication with a Champion of Service Award. The Champion of Service Award is given to an individual who has provided outstanding service. In March, they recognized Paul Eckman. Paul volunteered countless hours at the Capitan Public Library. Thank you, Paul, for your service! If you have received outstanding customer service and would like to nominate an individual for this award, please reach out to the Chamber.
The Chamber was excited to welcome Natural Grocers to Ruidoso with a ribbon-cutting during their grand opening on March 18, 2026! They are located at 25992 Hwy 70 in Ruidoso. Visit the store or download their app for coupons and sales information.
Congratulations to Pioneer Bank, which just celebrated its 125th Anniversary in February! In March, the Chamber helped celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Cattle Baron at a Business After Hours, and Farley’s will celebrate their 50th Anniversary with a Business After Hours on April 16, 2026. Cheers to the long-term success of these businesses!
The Chamber works hard every day to make Ruidoso a better place to live, work, and play. Our mission is to foster the growth, development, and prosperity of Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs, and the surrounding area. If you would like to be a part of the organization that supports this community, give us a call at 575-257-7395.
RUIDOSO MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS
From the Desk of Superintendent Becca Ferguson
Students across Ruidoso Municipal Schools continue to represent the Ruidoso community with pride through achievements in academics, leadership, service, and athletics.
At Ruidoso High School, the Quiz Bowl team is preparing for the NAQT Small Schools National Championship in Chicago for the third consecutive year. The team earned its national qualification through strong performances at several regional and national tournaments. After improving their national ranking by 22 places last year, the team hopes to climb even higher in this year’s competition. The RHS Quiz Bowl team is led by Head Coach Marilyn Orr and Assistant Coach Marin Goza.
Students in the RHS Educators Rising program are actively developing their skills as future educators through both classroom learning and hands-on experience. Lilly Samaniego was recently elected as the state Vice President for Educators Rising. In addition, Kandice Van Order and Abby Wieland qualified for the state competition with their original Pre-Kindergarten book titled Counting in the Mountain. This summer, 12 students, along with staff advisors Mrs. Magana and Mrs. Ames-Brown, will attend the Educators Rising National Conference in Portland, Oregon, from June 18–23, 2026.
Student leadership continues to thrive at Ruidoso Middle School. RMS Student Council members recently attended the New Mexico Association of Student Councils State Conference in Los Lunas, where they hosted a student-led workshop titled “Groovy Vibes and Friendship Ties.” RMS students were also recognized for their community service efforts, including organizing backpacks filled with supplies for The Nest and coordinating a food drive to support the Lincoln County Food Bank. They also earned statewide recognition at the conference, receiving the prestigious Platinum Award Student Council of the Year. The group also earned first place for Delegates’ Choice Scrapbook and recognition for their school service project.
RHS student-athletes also had strong seasons. Both the boys and girls basketball teams qualified for the state tournament and saw several players earned All-District honors. The wrestling teams completed a strong 2025–2026 season, with participation continuing to grow. Bella Chavez placed 6th at the Girls State Regional Tournament. Ashdyn Urban placed 3rd at the Boys State Regional Tournament and 5th at the Boys State Tournament, becoming a two-time state placer.
From national academic competitions to leadership conferences and athletic achievements, Ruidoso students continue to demonstrate the dedication, talent, and community spirit that define Warrior pride.
PARKS & RECREATION
Lifeguard Recruitment
The Parks & Recreation Department is now recruiting lifeguards for the upcoming summer season at the Pool and the Wibit floating water park at Grindstone Lake.
Lifeguards play an important role in helping keep residents and visitors safe while they enjoy two of Ruidoso’s most popular summer attractions. Duties include monitoring swimmers, enforcing safety rules, and assisting guests at both locations. These seasonal positions are ideal for students, teachers, or anyone looking for a rewarding summer job.
Lifeguard training and certifications are available through the Parks and Recreation Department.
Anyone interested in working outdoors and helping make summer in Ruidoso safe and fun is encouraged to apply through the Village of Ruidoso website. For more information, please contact the Parks & Recreation office at 575-257-5030.
Spring EVENTS
Check out our line-up of great events for spring! Please visit DiscoverRuidoso.com for additional events and details.
WEEKLY COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUNDAY:
• Sunday Night Acoustics/Hootenanny, Lost Hiker Brewing Company
• Sunday Sounds, The Patina Lounge
MONDAY:
• Jacks Trivia Night, Jacks Backstage
TUESDAY:
• Open Mic & Karaoke Night, Jacks Backstage
• Karaoke Night, WPS
• Movie Night, Monster House Dispensary
WEDNESDAY:
• Wet Your Whistle Wednesday, Lost Hiker Brewing Co
• Karaoke Night, The Quarters Bar & Grill
THURSDAY:
• Club 49 Comedy, Inn of the Mountain Gods
• Open Mic Night with Cody Jones, Downshift Brewing Company Hidden Tap
• Thirstday Night Trivia, Lost Hiker Brewing Co
• Veterans Coffee & Company, 615 Sudderth Dr Ste 1
• Phil Hamilton “Gringo Loco”, Casa Blanca Cantina
• WagFest 2026 - Ice Cream Krank-Off & Pet Parade, Wingfield Park
MAY 9:
• Jay White’s Sweet Caroline Tour, Spencer Theater
• Dia! Children’s Day/Book Day Celebration, Ruidoso Convention Center
MAY 14:
• Time Turner History Book Club, Ruidoso Public Library
• Classic Cinema Series, ENMU Ruidoso
MAY 15-17:
• Lincoln Forrest Renaissance Faire, Wingfield Park
MAY 16:
• The Long Dog Derby, Jacks Backstage
MAY 17:
• Restorative Yoga & Therapeutic Touch, Blue Lotus Day Spa
MAY 21:
• Sip & Paint at the Barn, Enchanted Vine Barn
MAY 22-25:
• Flying J Ranch Opening Weekend, Flying J Ranch
MAY 23:
• 4 Lads from Liverpool - Ultimate Beatles Tribute, Inn of the Mountain Gods
MAY 23-25:
• Memorial Day Weekend Opening - Wibit Water Park at Grindstone Lake & Ruidoso Municipal Pool
MAY 31:
• White Sands Full Moon Night, White Sands National Park
RUIDOSO MIDTOWN ASSOCIATION
From the Desk of RMA Executive Director Tim Duckworth
In February, I attended the New Mexico Main Street conference in Albuquerque. I was able to make some connections with other regional directors, and we have begun some exciting new collaborations. The conference focused on the 100th Anniversary of the historic Route 66 and on how urban areas in the state are bringing nature into the cities. It made me realize how blessed we are to have nature all around us!
On March 7, I attended the Southeast Regional CreativeCon (sponsored by NMEDD) in Carlsbad, where I learned more about what resources and support are available in our region and statewide to support those in the creative industries. Our very own Kaitlyn Carpenter with Bridge to Art was on the discussion panel, discussing her challenges and her triumphs.
RMA is planning our quarterly business mixer for April 2026. Keep an eye out for more information to come.
The RMA Ice Cream Krank-Off and Humane Society of Lincoln County Wagfest are on for May 2, 2026! Please see the Wagfest website for more information about themes for the pet parade.
Don’t forget about Brewdoso on June 20, 2026! We will feature New Mexico craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries, and 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 Faux McCoys, The Tejas Brothers, and FUNGI MUNGLE! Tickets for the event will be available online soon!
We would like to welcome a new business to our Ruidoso Midtown:
» The Cap Barn - Located in Time Square, it’s a great place to pick a cap and build it to your personal liking.
As always, check us out on Instagram @midtown_ruidoso and online at RuidosoMidtownAssociation.com.
DEPARTMENTS & PHONE NUMBERS
Airport 575-336-8111
Convention Center 575-258-5445
Judicial 575-257-9055
Library 575-258-3704
Parks & Recreation 575-257-5030
Police 575-258-7365
Fire 575-257-3473
Solid Waste 575-257-1502
Street Works 575-257-6023
Forestry 575-257-5544
Planning & Zoning 575-258-6999
Regional Waste Water Treatment Plant (RWWTP) 575-378-8417
Senior Center 575-257-4565
Water Distribution and Sewer
Collections 575-257-2386
Water Production 575-257-5525
Water Rights/Watershed (RJU) 575-258-6913
LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER
www.Ruidoso-NM.gov
From the Desk of The Chief Executive - Todd Oberheu
If you’ve been sneezing more than usual lately, you’re not imagining it. With warmer-than-normal temperatures across New Mexico, allergy season may be getting an earlier start this year.
When temperatures rise sooner than expected, trees and plants begin releasing pollen earlier. In places like Lincoln County, common triggers include juniper (often called cedar), tree pollen, grasses, and dust. Add in our dry, windy conditions, those allergens can travel easily through the air — which means more people start feeling the effects sooner.
Seasonal allergies can show up in a few different ways. The most common symptoms include:
» Sneezing
» Runny or stuffy nose
» Itchy or watery eyes
» Scratchy throat
» Sinus pressure or headaches
» Feeling tired because sleep is disrupted
Allergies are sometimes mistaken for a cold, but the key difference is that allergy symptoms tend to stick around longer and usually don’t come with a fever.
While you can’t eliminate pollen from the air, there are a few simple steps that may help reduce symptoms:
» Check local pollen counts and limit outdoor time when levels are high
» Keep windows closed on windy days
» Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors
» Try over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays if recommended
If your allergy symptoms are interfering with sleep, daily activities, or not improving with over-the-counter treatments, it may be time to check in with a provider. The team at Lincoln County Medical Center can help evaluate ongoing symptoms and recommend treatment options so you can breathe easier and get back to enjoying the season. A little extra care and the right treatment can go a long way toward making allergy season more manageable.
EASTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY - RUIDOSO
From the Desk of President Ryan Trosper
ENMU-Ruidoso Branch Community College hosted the Beta Sigma Pi Chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) International Honor Society induction ceremony on February 24.
The event began with a welcome and opening remarks by ENMU-Ruidoso Department Chair of Education and PTK Advisor Cleo Mow. The guest speaker was ENMURuidoso President, Dr. Ryan Trosper. Trosper praised the inductees and spoke about his own experience as a college student with PTK.
L-R: ENMU-Ruidoso Department Chair of Education and PTK Advisor Cleo Mow, ENMU-Ruidoso Students Robert Ruiz, Mackenzie Wilson, Ella Hovrud, Cole Hanshew, Jessie Dentler, Madalyn Heidbreder, Chyenne Marrufo (on cellphone, via FaceTime), and Destiny Hixon (holding the phone). Michael Bishop is not pictured.
Mow and Student Success Center Advisor/PTK CoAdvisor Destiny Hixon began the induction of the eight new members of PTK. The inductees signed the chapter record book to signify their first step into the society. They were each given a white candle to light from the larger candle, signifying their membership in the larger organization, and were presented with a white rose and a certificate. The installation of officers was announced: Robert Ruiz, Vice President; and Madalyn Heidbreder, Secretary/Treasurer.
The following students were inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Beta Sigma Pi Chapter:
» Carlsbad - Ella Hovrud
» Las Cruces - Chyenne Marrufo (not pictured, but was on FaceTime)
» Ruidoso - Jessi Dentler, Madalyn Heidbreder, Robert Ruiz, Mackenzie Wilson
