The City of Las Vegas invites all clubs, businesses, and organizations to participate in Boo Fest, which will be held on Friday, October 31, starting at 3:00 p.m. and continuing while supplies last. This is a free, family-friendly event featuring costumes, treats, and Halloween fun. We encourage everyone to help make this Halloween a memorable celebration for our community. Participants are encouraged to dress in costume and hand out candy, promotional items, or other giveaways. The inner circle of the Plaza will be closed during the event to ensure safety for children, though access through the Plaza will remain open. Law enforcement will be on-site, and drivers are reminded to reduce speed in the area. Trick-or-treaters will begin at Valencia Street and Bridge Street, near the Las Vegas Optic, and follow a loop-style trail along Bridge Street, around Plaza Park, and through the park itself where additional participants will be set up. The route will continue toward Bridge Street and Paseo de las Escuelas. Those not located in storefronts will be assigned space in Plaza Park on a first-come, first-served basis. Space may be limited. All participants must register for the event. The application can be found on the City’s website at www.lasvegasnm.gov , both on the homepage and in the Events section. Please note: ·No food or drink vendors are allowed. ·No items may be sold during the event. ·This is strictly a trick-or-treat event so children can collect their goodies and continue on to the next stop. For more information regarding street closures or event logistics, please contact Chuck Griego or Thomas Fernandez at 505-454-1401. The City of Las Vegas appreciates the community’s support and looks forward to a safe and fun Boo Fest.

Please be advised that residents and businesses on the west side of Las Vegas may experience low water pressure or a temporary outage. This is due to a contractor accidentally striking a main water line while digging behind the New Mexico Behavioral Health Institute. The main break has been isolated, and repair efforts are currently underway. We will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. We appreciate your patience and apologize for the inconvenience. For questions, please contact the Utilities Department at 505-454-3832.

Las Vegas, N.M. — The City of Las Vegas Solid Waste Department has added a new MAC Walking Floor Trailer to its fleet, strengthening the city’s ability to transport trash to the Wagon Mound Landfill. The trailer is expected to make daily operations more efficient and help the department keep up with increasing demands. The truck was purchased with funding from last fiscal year’s budget and only needed a trailer to be put to full use. The trailer came as an added cost that required additional funding. Part of the expense was covered by trading in a scrap trailer that had been purchased several years ago but no longer met the department’s needs. The remaining funds were provided by City Councilman Marvin Martinez through a community-focused initiative. With both now in service, the equipment package is complete. “This trailer supports Ward 4 and all wards in our community, and it helps our solid waste employees get the job done,” said Councilman Martinez. “I am proud to have offered Ward 4 funding for our community, and I will continue to support the needs of Ward 4 and the entire city as a councilman.” The department says the new equipment was a much-needed addition. As the city continues to grow, the volume of trash collected each day has increased, putting pressure on existing resources. Solid waste crews are often tasked with working long hours to keep up with demand, and the addition of the new trailer and truck will allow for larger hauls and fewer trips to the landfill. This not only saves time and fuel but also reduces wear on existing vehicles and equipment, helping extend the life of the city’s fleet. “We thank Councilman Martinez for reaching out to assist us with this purchase,” said David Marquez, Solid Waste Director. “These things don’t happen at the flip of a light switch, but with the support of our mayor, council, and city manager, these things become possible and this is the kind of support our staff receives.”   Mayor David Romero, Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Marvin Martinez, Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey, Councilman Michael Montoya, Councilman David Ulibarri, and City Manager Robert A. Anaya all remain committed to supporting the efforts of all city departments. This project highlights the importance of strategic investments in city infrastructure and the value of collaboration across departments and leadership. As the City of Las Vegas continues to grow and modernize, initiatives like this ensure that essential services keep pace with community needs, all while making operations more cost-effective and sustainable .

Las Vegas, N.M. — The City of Las Vegas has been awarded $1.5 million from the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) through its Transportation Alternatives Program for the Riverwalk Trail Restoration Project. The funding will go toward major improvements to the walking trail that runs from National Avenue to Mills Avenue. The total cost of the project is $1.7 million and includes a required local match of $260,000. The City has submitted a request to NMDOT for a waiver of the local match requirement. Among the planned improvements is a new pedestrian walkover bridge at the Mills Avenue intersection. This bridge will connect the existing trail to the northern section along Cinder Road, enhancing both safety and accessibility while encouraging greater use of the trail system. The existing trail, built more than 20 years ago, has significantly deteriorated. Planned enhancements will bring the trail up to ADA standards and includes new pavement, trail markings, fitness stations, benches, and additional solar lighting consistent with prior improvements. These updates are aimed at increasing safety, supporting existing infrastructure, and promoting outdoor recreation and physical activity. The Riverwalk Trail Restoration Project is part of the broader Gallinas River Park initiative, which seeks to create a vibrant community destination and gathering space for both residents and visitors. Beautification and infrastructure enhancements have been ongoing. In 2024, the City installed three decorative gateway arches between Independence Avenue and National Avenue, funded by a $50,000 grant from the T-Mobile Hometown Grants Program. A fourth arch is currently being fabricated for placement just beyond National Avenue. Robert Archuleta of Arch Consulting, LLC has also submitted an additional grant application to the New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division in hopes to fund the final two arches leading up to Mills Avenue.    Additional improvements include the installation of new electrical infrastructure to support maintenance and special events such as “Luces en El Río”, a popular winter holiday celebration for families and visitors. Lockable electrical outlets have been added for safety and are activated only through permitted use. Solar lighting has also been installed along parts of the trail using capital outlay funds, with more lighting planned to further improve visibility and safety. The City of Las Vegas extends its sincere thanks to NMDOT Chairman Walter Adams and the entire District 4 staff for their continued partnership and support. This progress would not be possible without the leadership and dedication of Public Works Director Arnold Lopez and Public Works Manager Danny Gurule, as well as the successful grant writing efforts of Robert Archuleta of Arch Consulting, LLC. The City also acknowledges the ongoing support of the Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments. Together, their efforts have been instrumental in securing funding and advancing this important community project. Mayor David Romero, Mayor Pro Tem and Councilman Marvin Martinez, Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey, Councilman Michael Montoya, Councilman David Ulibarri, and City Manager Robert A. Anaya remain committed to developing and maintaining high-quality outdoor recreational spaces for the community. The City will continue working closely with its local, regional, and state partners to ensure the long-term success of the Gallinas River Park project.

As temperatures drop and fireplaces start getting used again, the Las Vegas Fire Department wants to make sure you are aware of the dangers and why cleaning your chimney before use is critical. Most chimney fires are caused by creosote buildup. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood, especially when the fire does not burn completely. It starts as a gas, then cools and sticks to the inside walls of your chimney. Over time, it hardens into a thick, tar-like substance. The amount of creosote that builds up depends on several factors, including the type of wood you burn, the temperature of the fire, and how well air flows through your chimney. This buildup is dangerous for two main reasons. First, it can clog the chimney, increasing the risk of smoke or carbon monoxide entering your home. Second, it is highly flammable and can ignite from a single spark, potentially causing a fast-moving and dangerous chimney fire. The photos below show a chimney flue before cleaning and the amount of creosote that was removed. Even after cleaning, creosote begins building up again the next time you use your fireplace, which is why yearly maintenance is so important.  In particularly cold winters, fireplaces tend to be used more frequently and for longer periods of time. This leads to greater creosote buildup than usual. If possible, it is recommended to have your chimney flue cleaned during the season as well, especially if you notice heavy use. As colder weather sets in, the Las Vegas Fire Department urges all residents to have their chimneys professionally cleaned and inspected before winter begins and again mid-season if needed. Keep warm and stay safe throughout the fall and winter.

On Monday, October 6, the City of Las Vegas launched a City-Wide Alley and Hazardous Tree Cleanup initiative that will continue throughout October, weather permitting. The project aims to improve access to public rights-of-way and reduce health and fire hazards across the city, promoting public safety and community well-being. City staff is working closely with PNM to ensure the project’s success. Residents may see work crews in their neighborhoods but should not be alarmed. All personnel will be clearly identifiable and wearing safety vests. Luna Community College and New Mexico Highlands University are also supporting the effort with staff and student volunteers. The cleanup will take place in all four wards, beginning with priority areas and progressing through the city in phases. This is an ongoing project, and more details will be provided as work continues. We appreciate the patience and support of our community as we work to enhance our shared spaces. We thank our dedicated city staff and partners for their continued efforts in making Las Vegas a cleaner, safer place for all.   Mayor David Romero, Mayor Pro-Tem/Councilman Marvin Martinez, City Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey, City Councilman Michael Montoya, City Councilman David Ulibarri, and City Manager Robert A. Anaya are committed to keeping Las Vegas beautiful, safe, and free from hazards in as many ways as possible. Their continued leadership and dedication reflect the city's strong commitment to community well-being, neighborhood revitalization, and proactive public safety measures.   Through initiatives like this, they aim to foster pride in our city and ensure that Las Vegas remains a place where residents and future generations can live, work, and thrive. This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between city officials, community partners, and residents working together for a safer and cleaner city.

The City of Las Vegas Water Distribution will be working to repair a water leak affecting the 300 block of Santa Fe Street which began at 8:30 a.m. today and is expected to be completed at approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. During this time, residents in the affected area may experience low water pressure or a temporary water outage. Detour routes will be in place, and drivers are urged to use caution when traveling in the area. The City is committed to restoring service as quickly and safely as possible and will provide updates as needed. We understand that utility disruptions are inconvenient and appreciate your patience and cooperation while this important work is completed. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the City of Las Vegas Utilities Division at (505) 454-3832.

The City completed its latest Charter Review a few months ago after a lengthy process that started in October 2024. This review is conducted every five years by an independent commission made up of residents representing each ward of the community along with a municipal law expert. The commission is responsible for reviewing the City Charter, which is the foundational document that defines how our local government operates. Following the review, ten (10) ballot questions were approved by the City Council and will appear on this year’s local election ballot for city voters. City voters must decide whether these amendments move forward or not. These proposed changes could directly impact how the city functions in the future. Residents are encouraged to attend a local ward meeting to learn more about the Charter Review process, the commission’s recommendations, and the ballot questions that will be up for a vote. This is your chance to ask questions, understand the proposed changes, and be an informed voter. Join us at one of the following meetings, each held from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM: Thursday, October 9 at Don Cecilio Gymnasium, 412 Santa Fe Street Thursday, October 16 at Las Vegas Fire Station 1, 604 Legion Drive Thursday, October 23 at City Hall Council Chambers, 1700 N Grand Avenue Thursday, October 30 at Las Vegas Senior Center, 500 Sabino Street Make your voice heard. Stay informed. Help shape the future of our city.

The City of Las Vegas Water Distribution will be working to repair a 2-inch water main break affecting the 700 block of Socorro Street which began at 8:30 a.m. today and is expected to be completed at approximately 3:30 p.m., weather permitting. During this time, residents in the affected area may experience low water pressure or a temporary water outage. In addition, Socorro Street will be closed to traffic between Montezuma Street and Romero Street. Detour routes will be in place, and drivers are urged to use caution when traveling in the area. The City is committed to restoring service as quickly and safely as possible and will provide updates as needed. We understand that utility disruptions are inconvenient and appreciate your patience and cooperation while this important work is completed. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the City of Las Vegas Utilities Division at (505) 454-3832.

The City of Las Vegas Water Distribution Team is currently working to isolate a water leak in the 1400 Block of 7th Street, near the Taco Bell area. As a result, residents and businesses in the surrounding area may experience low water pressure or a temporary water outage while repairs are underway. Crews are actively working to resolve the issue as quickly and safely as possible. Traffic control will be in place on 7th Street and Mills Avenue. Please take caution in the area. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Las Vegas, N.M.  — The City of Las Vegas is moving forward with restoring the historic Old City Hall for future city use. In partnership with the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) Volunteer Remediation Program and the U.S. EPA Brownfields Program, the City recently completed a federally funded environmental assessment led by Robert Archuleta of Arch Consulting, LLC. The assessment revealed widespread asbestos and lead-based paint contamination, making the building unsafe to occupy or work in until cleanup is complete. NMED has committed $351,000 in federal funds for remediation. Structural issues, including cracked windows and unstable stone lintels, were also identified while the north end remains fenced off for safety. A non-original rear addition containing high asbestos levels was safely demolished earlier this year using capital outlay funds. The City is also conducting soil and structural assessments to support future planning. These projects are lengthy and costly. The City thanks staff, contractors, and grant partners for their dedication to preserving this landmark. Skilled grant writing and project management have been key to securing essential funding. As a Certified Local Government recognized by the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division and the National Park Service, the City appreciates the continued support of Karla McWilliams from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), Savannah Richards from NMED, and all project partners. Mayor David Romero, Mayor Pro Tem/Councilman Marvin Martinez, Councilwoman Barbara Perea-Casey, Councilman Michael Montoya, Councilman David Ulibarri, and City Manager Robert A. Anaya remain committed to restoring New Mexico’s first municipal building and preserving its legacy. The City thanks the community for its ongoing support and patience throughout this important project.

Shortly after 2:30 p.m. today, the Las Vegas Fire Department responded to a small grass and brush fire behind Pat Romero’s Feed and Supply on South Commerce Street, close to I-25. The fire was quickly contained, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was determined to be a bottle rocket. Firefighters are grateful to have been able to contain the flames quickly, but they caution that the situation isn’t always so manageable. The Fire Department reminds the public to use extreme caution when using fireworks or open flames, as dry vegetation can ignite easily. For more information, please contact the Las Vegas Fire Department at 505-425-6321.