Las Vegas, NM – On Thursday evening, the Las Vegas Fire Department officially welcomed three new certified firefighters during a Badge Pinning Ceremony held at Las Vegas City Hall. Firefighters Michael Barboa, Justin Woodlee, and Matthew Freeman were officially recognized after successfully completing the Fire Academy and earning the title of firefighter. The ceremony was attended by numerous current firefighters, family members, and community leaders, all gathered to support and celebrate the newest members of the department. Fire Chief Steven Spann opened the evening with a powerful address, sharing the historical significance of the firefighter’s role and offering guidance to the graduates and their families. He emphasized the commitment and responsibility the badge represents. “Graduates, the badge you are about to wear tonight is not just a piece of metal. It represents profound civic responsibility, unwavering courage, and selfless service. Wear it with pride, honor it with your actions, and carry its meaning in your hearts,” said Chief Spann. He also took a moment to recognize the veteran firefighters in attendance, thanking them for mentoring the graduates and guiding them through their training. The new firefighters were sworn in by Municipal Judge Eddie Trujillo, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for being part of the event. “This is an honor. I’ve served as municipal court judge for 32 years, and this is the first time I’ve had the privilege to perform a firefighter swearing-in,” said Judge Trujillo. He shared a personal message about the importance of community safety. “My father just turned 96, I have two children, five grandchildren, and over 150 nieces and nephews. I am one of 11 siblings. Why do I say this? Because it is comforting and meaningful to know these men will be watching over my family and this city.” Mayor David Romero and Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey also attended the ceremony. Mayor Romero congratulated the graduates and stated this was the first pinning ceremony he had attended during his seven years serving the City of Las Vegas as City Councilor and most recently as Mayor. “To the families, thank you for supporting these individuals because we know they go through a lot—entering these homes, facing dangerous situations—and now our community is faced with additional flooding that these gentlemen have to deal with, and it’s going to be routine, that we have to be prepared for. I am very proud of you guys. Thank you to those who have been serving us. We have one heck of a fire department, and I am glad you chose to pick Las Vegas, NM, to be the place that you serve.” The ceremony culminated in a deeply emotional moment as each graduate was proudly pinned by a loved one—a powerful tradition that reflects the unwavering support and sacrifices families make for those who serve. They were officially welcomed as firefighters by Fire Chief Spann and Deputy Chief Randal Haugen. Tears of joy and pride filled the room as the community came together to celebrate these brave men beginning their journey to protect and serve. The Las Vegas Fire Department will continue to hold badge pinning ceremonies regularly to honor the courage, dedication, and hard work of its new firefighters. The City of Las Vegas extends its heartfelt gratitude to these new firefighters for choosing to serve our community. We are proud to welcome them into our family and grateful for their commitment to keeping our city safe. Their addition strengthens our fire department and makes our city safer for all.   Firefighter Justin Woodlee Firefighter Matthew Freeman Firefighter Michael Barboa

The City of Las Vegas and the Abe Montoya Recreation Center are excited to announce that registration for our Summer Day Camp opens on Tuesday, May 27.   Get ready for a summer packed with fun, adventure, and nonstop activities designed especially for children ages 5 to 13. This action-packed program will run from June 16 through July 18, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Each day will include games, crafts, sports, learning experiences, and plenty of opportunities to make new friends. Breakfast and lunch are included to keep campers energized and ready for the day. We are accepting only 60 children, so early registration is encouraged. The registration fee is $250 per child, and the   deadline to register is June 11. Once all spots are filled, registration will close. To sign up, visit the Abe Montoya Recreation Center in person or contact us at 505-426-1739 for more information. Let’s make Summer 2025 unforgettable. We can’t wait to see you there!

Pictured Left to Right: Fernando Lopez, Pablo Lopez The City of Las Vegas is proud to welcome two new graduates to the Las Vegas Police Department: Fernando Lopez and Pablo Lopez, both of whom have completed the rigorous training of Academy Class 209. Their graduation ceremony took place on Tuesday, May 20, and was attended by family, friends, LVPD Chief Caleb Marquez, and Commander Elias Rael. Fernando Lopez carries on a proud legacy—his father, Michael Lopez, is a veteran lieutenant with the department. Over the course of 16 intensive weeks, these new officers trained tirelessly to earn their certification, sacrificing time with loved ones and overcoming the many challenges of police academy life. Their determination and resilience are a testament to their character and the strong support system behind them. We commend Officers Fernando and Pablo Lopez for their dedication and thank their families for standing by them. The City of Las Vegas is honored to welcome them to the LVPD family. Thank you for your service and for helping make Las Vegas a safer place to live.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of a cherished tradition! Represent your heritage and community with pride by joining the 2025 Royal Court of the Las Vegas Fiestas. This is more than a title — it’s a lifelong honor that celebrates culture, leadership, and grace.  Eligibility: Young ladies ages 16 to 24  It’s not too late – Apply now! Deadline is Friday, May 23rd! Be a part of something unforgettable. Carry the tradition, wear the crown, and make your mark. Apply today and become a proud symbol of our vibrant heritage!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 20, 2025 - 6:30 p.m. Media Contact: Amanda C. Salas, Public Information Officer Phone: 505-426-5703 Email: clvpio@lasvegasnm.gov Las Vegas, NM - The City of Las Vegas Animal Care Center is currently facing a critical overcapacity emergency. Following a court-mandated intake of 25 dogs from a single residence, the center is now caring for 78 dogs and 12 cats. The 25 dogs involved in the court order will require extensive care, placing significant strain on the center's limited space and resources. As a result, the center's ability to accept additional animals from Las Vegas and San Miguel County is currently restricted.  The Animal Care Center is urgently calling on the community for help to alleviate overcrowding. "We are asking community members to consider fostering, adopting, or fostering-to-adopt to help us get through this critical time," said Police Chief Caleb Marquez. "The animals need care, space, and love, something our community has always stepped up to provide." Immediate needs include: Foster Homes Foster-to-adopt placements Permanent adoptions To encourage support, adoption fees for all adult dogs are currently waived. Please note that puppy availability is limited at this time. How to Help: 📞 Call the center at 505-426-3289🐾 View adoptable animals at: www.lasvegasnm.gov www.petfinder.com Your support can make a life-changing difference for these animals in need.

If you're thinking about adding a furry friend to your family this summer, look no further than the City of Las Vegas Animal Care Center! Adopt a pet and give an animal a second chance at a loving home. The shelter has a variety of cats and dogs ready to meet you. To schedule an appointment to visit the animals, please call 505-426-3289. Make this summer unforgettable — adopt a pet today!

Las Vegas, NM — The City of Las Vegas Gas Department, in partnership with NM811 “Call Before You Dig,” is continuing its efforts to promote natural gas safety through engaging, hands-on presentations at local schools. On Friday, April 25, 2025, Gas Compliance Officer Jesus Ortiz led a safety session at Los Niños Elementary School, reaching 133 students. He was joined by team members from the City of Las Vegas Gas Department, including Josh Grano, Equipment Operator I, Jason Bryer, Gas Laborer, and Jacob Mejillas, Gas Field Supervisor. The session introduced students to important safety topics including how to recognize the odor of natural gas, what actions to take during a gas-related emergency, the critical role of calling 811 before digging, and how the Gas Department works to serve and protect the community. A follow-up presentation was held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Sierra Vista Elementary School. The team spoke with 346 students from the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades, continuing the effort to instill safety awareness in young community members. Each session lasted approximately 30 to 45 minutes and was designed to be both educational and interactive. To bring the concepts to life, students were given a hands-on look at tools and equipment used in the field, including gas line markers and gas meters with regulators. The presentation concluded with a Q&A session, allowing students to ask questions and deepen their understanding of natural gas safety. Educational materials and promotional merchandise were generously provided by NM811, reinforcing the importance of safe digging and public awareness. “We’re incredibly grateful to Los Niños and Sierra Vista Elementary Schools for welcoming us and helping share this important message,” said David Marquez, Gas Director. “By starting with education at a young age, we’re building a safer, more informed community.” The City of Las Vegas Gas Department will continue offering these safety presentations at schools, senior centers, and other community organizations. For more information or to schedule a presentation, please contact the City of Las Vegas Natural Gas Department at 505-454-3832. Remember: Smell gas? Act fast. Leave the area immediately and call 911. And always call 811 before you dig.

Step up to the plate! The Abe Montoya Recreation Center is now accepting registrations for the Home Run Derby for kids ages 11–12 . 📅 Event Date: Saturday, May 31 📍 Location: Keyes Park 💲 Fee: $20 per child Bring your best swing and join the fun — space is limited, so sign up early! And don’t miss your chance to compete in the 2nd Annual Mushball League! Open to players 16 and older , this exciting summer league offers friendly competition and community fun. ⚾ $250 per team 📅 Registration: May 15 – June 9 📍 Games at Keyes Park 📆 6-game season 🏆 Tournament begins June 18 Register now at the Abe Montoya Recreation Center .📞 For more information, call 505-426-1739 .

Location: Santa Ana Street to Rio Arriba Street Start Date: Monday, May 19, 2025 Time: 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Affected Area: Santa Ana Street to Rio Arriba Street Detours will be in place Please use alternate routes For more information, please contact: City of Las Vegas Gas Division  505-454-3832 We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this necessary maintenance work.

Lucas Lucero, a Las Vegas, NM native, was officially sworn in to the Las Vegas Police Department on Thursday, May 15, 2025, by Police Chief Caleb Marquez and Commander Elias Rael. Lucero expressed his enthusiasm about joining the department, stating, “I want to be the one person in my family to be on the right side of the law and do good things. I always thought of becoming a police officer. I enjoy helping people.” Lucero will attend the Police Academy this July to earn his certification. The City of Las Vegas extends its sincere appreciation to Officer Lucero for his commitment to public service and welcomes him to the team.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 15, 2025 Contact: Amanda C. Salas, Mayor Liaison/PIO Email: clvpio@lasvegasnm.gov Phone: (505) 426-5703 Website: www.lasvegasnm.gov Las Vegas, NM  — In a unanimous vote during Wednesday night’s City Council meeting, Robert Anaya was officially appointed as the new City Manager of Las Vegas, following the resignation of former City Manager Timothy Montgomery earlier this month. Due to the short timeframe and the upcoming municipal elections in November, which could result in changes to the mayoral and council positions, the Governing Body voted to waive the Charter Rule that requires two qualified candidates to be presented for appointment. Anaya was a qualified candidate willing to serve under the current transitional circumstances, despite extensive efforts by Mayor David Romero to identify additional candidates. City officials emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent leadership during this critical period. After the appointment, Anaya addressed the Governing Body with humility and gratitude, stating, “I appreciate the confidence and the opportunity that you give me to come and work for the City of Las Vegas, the Meadow City that I live in and am a resident of. I look forward to working with all of you to move forward the objectives, policies, and procedures that you as the mayor and each one of you council members have put forward. I look forward to working with the individuals behind me, beside me, all around me throughout the city and community, including the staff.” Mayor David Romero expressed strong support for Anaya’s appointment and thanked the Governing Body, noting the importance of avoiding a lapse in leadership. He emphasized that the city must continue its momentum and stay on track with current goals and initiatives. Council members also shared positive remarks, highlighting their previous work with Anaya and expressing confidence in his ability to step into the role effectively.   Anaya brings a wide range of experience to the position. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a Master of Arts in Public Affairs, and has completed the Alternative Teaching Licensure Program in Secondary Education with a focus on Social Studies. He currently serves as the Farmington and Santa Fe Center Manager for New Mexico Highlands University and is also the President of the NMHU Staff Senate. His professional background includes work in education as a substitute and student teacher, experience as an apprentice electrician and propane technician, and service with the New Mexico Department of Transportation. He also held various roles in Santa Fe County government, including work in the Housing Authority, Community Development, Health and Economic Development, Senior Services, and County Fair Operations. In addition, Anaya is a ranch owner and a former Santa Fe County Commissioner. With his strong ties to the community and diverse background in public service, Anaya is expected to provide steady leadership and foster collaboration across city departments and throughout the community. He will assume the role of City Manager in mid-June. Update from Acting Co-City Managers Caleb Marquez and Lucas Marquez During the City Council meeting, Acting Co-City Managers Caleb Marquez and Lucas Marquez provided a brief report on their interim efforts while serving in the leadership role. They highlighted several key initiatives and accomplishments that took place during their tenure: Advanced plans and approved filter bed replacements at the water treatment plant Monitored current river elevations in coordination with the Fire Chief, with plans in place to take action if necessary to protect public safety Continued progress on grant-funded and capital outlay projects, securing necessary approvals Conducted departmental budget reviews Issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for debris removal Finalized contract negotiations with two labor unions Ensured operational consistency across all city departments Their leadership during this transitional period was acknowledged by the City Council, which expressed appreciation for their dedication and efforts in maintaining essential city functions and services.     Peterson Dam Project Progress Travis Martinez, Utility Director (Water), provided an update on the Peterson Dam Project. He reported that project plans and designs are progressing ahead of schedule through ongoing collaboration with the New Mexico State Engineer. Full approval and permitting are anticipated by November 2025.The project aims to: Increase water storage by 100 acre-feet Address infrastructure needs identified after the June 2024 flood, including levy system reinforcement Martinez noted that the water plant is currently operating efficiently, with storage levels at 97% capacity. After-Action Review Investigation Underway Attorney Stevie Nichols of Ortiz & Zamora, Attorneys at Law, LLC, provided a brief update on the ongoing After-Action Review related to the February 2025 water incident. Mayor David Romero emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the process. “As you’re aware, the city manager last month said that he would have an update to this governing body and I made sure of that,” said Mayor Romero. “I did reach out to Stevie to see if she could give an update. I know she ran into some roadblocks, but I think it is important the community knows this is being taken seriously. It didn’t fall on deaf ears and is being worked on.” Nichols reported that 18 individuals are scheduled to be interviewed as part of the investigation, with approximately 9 interviews completed to date. She anticipates the remaining interviews will be finalized within a week. The official After-Action Review report is expected to be completed and formally presented to the Governing Body and public by the law firm at the first regular City Council meeting in June. Council Approves $1 Million for Hot Springs Project – Phase 2 The Governing Body voted unanimously to allocate $1,000,000 dollars for Phase 2 of the Hot Springs Road Improvement Project, which will be budgeted for the FY 2025–2026 fiscal year.   This funding builds on a previous council decision to pursue a major infrastructure initiative as a joint effort by the Governing Body. Additional Items The Robertson High School Boys Basketball Team was recognized for winning the State Championship in March. Council approved proposals for citywide concrete services and for access control and camera system services. To watch this meeting and others, visit the City of Las Vegas, New Mexico YouTube channel. The City Council holds regular meetings on the second and third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at Las Vegas City Hall, located at 1700 N. Grand Avenue, Las Vegas, NM 87701.

The City of Las Vegas is now hiring Summer Day Camp Coaches  at the Abe Montoya Recreation Center. Multiple positions are available! Preferred Qualifications: 18 years of age or older Experience working with youth Valid New Mexico Driver’s License (required0 Must obtain First Aid, CPR, and AED certification within the first month of employment Apply Today:  Visit www.lasvegasnm.gov/jobs For More Information:  Call the Abe Montoya Recreation Center at 505-426-1739. Make a difference this summer—work, lead, and inspire!