The Las Vegas Police Department will participate in the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Police Department Station, 318 Moreno Street, Las Vegas, New Mexico. This event provides a safe, convenient, and anonymous opportunity for residents to dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired medications. Proper disposal helps reduce the risk of accidental poisoning, medication misuse, and environmental harm. Accepted items include: prescription medications in pill or capsule form, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary supplements. Needles and sharps will not be accepted. Residents are encouraged to take part in this public safety initiative by cleaning out their medicine cabinets and safely disposing of medications. Participation is free, and no questions will be asked. For questions or more information, please call the Las Vegas Police Department at 505-454-7504.

The Las Vegas Fire Department wants to share an important reminder about protecting your health during wildfire season. Wildfires can quickly fill the air with smoke, ash, and harmful particles—even miles away from the flames. When official air quality updates aren’t immediately available, the 5-3-1 Visibility Method can help you make quick safety decisions. Check your visibility: 5 miles or more (clear view):Air quality is likely fair, but smoke can still shift quickly. Stay alert. 3–5 miles (light haze):Air quality is moderate. Smoke is present—limit long outdoor activities, especially for children, older adults, and people with breathing conditions. 1–3 miles (noticeable smoke, reduced clarity):Air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Reduce time outside. Avoid exercise outdoors. Less than 1 mile (heavy smoke, hard to see far):Air quality is unhealthy to hazardous.Stay indoors. Close all windows and doors. Use air filtration if possible. During wildfire smoke events: If you smell strong smoke or see ash falling, take precautions immediately—even if visibility seems okay Use a properly fitted N95 mask if you must go outside Keep indoor air as clean as possible (recirculate AC, avoid burning candles or cooking that adds smoke) Check official alerts when available for evacuation or health guidance See the attached map to estimate distances to familiar landmarks in your area and apply the 5-3-1 method more accurately. https://nmtracking.doh.nm.gov/WildFireSmoke/ In New Mexico, wildfire smoke can travel far and change rapidly with the wind. If the view disappears, it’s a warning sign—protect yourself and your family. If you can’t see it clearly, don’t breathe it deeply.

You may have noticed increased activity at Rodriguez Park over the past couple of weeks as crews work to complete a major lighting improvement project. This project is part of a planned upgrade to modernize the park’s athletic facilities, improve safety and visibility during evening use, and enhance the overall experience for players, spectators, and the community. Bixby Electric, working in collaboration with Holophane Lighting, has completed installation of new LED lighting at the softball field. This included five new electrical poles and upgraded, energy-efficient fixtures designed to improve visibility, safety, and field conditions for nighttime use. Work is now underway at the large baseball field, where the existing outdated lighting is being removed and replaced with a modern LED system. Once both fields are complete, they will feature improved lighting coverage, better safety, and more reliable performance for night games and events. These upgrades will allow for extended use of the fields, support youth sports programs, and improve conditions for community activities. The new LED lighting will also reduce energy use and require less maintenance than the current system. The project is funded by a $217,500 grant from the State Parks Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department through the New Mexico Land and Water Conservation Program. This funding supports ongoing improvements to local recreational facilities and is part of the City’s long-term plan to develop a multi-purpose sports complex that promotes recreation, healthy lifestyles, and accessible public spaces. Because of ongoing construction over the next several weeks, including the use of cranes and other high-reach equipment, the public is asked to stay clear of work areas for safety. Work will continue until the project is fully completed. The City appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation during this improvement project.

Las Vegas and surrounding areas can expect strong winds and very dry conditions today, creating a high risk for fire danger across the region. 🔥 Fire Danger is HIGH These conditions are critical for rapid fire ignition and spread. Even a small spark can quickly become a serious fire. Residents are strongly urged to: * Avoid all outdoor burning * Do not discard cigarettes outdoors * Avoid activities that can create sparks * Secure loose materials that could be blown and ignite 🌬️ Conditions Today: * Winds of 15–25 mph with gusts up to 35–45 mph * Low humidity and dry vegetation * Possible blowing dust in open areas 🚗 Travel Advisory: * Use caution while driving due to strong winds and reduced visibility in some areas Please remain alert and take precautions to help prevent fires and protect our community. #LasVegasNM #FireWeather #FireSafety #StaySafe #HighFireDanger

Would you like to become the next Reina de Las Vegas? The Reina de Las Vegas title is a unique opportunity to represent the City of Las Vegas with pride, confidence, and tradition. As Reina, you will serve as a visible ambassador for the community, celebrate culture and heritage, and take part in meaningful events throughout the year. This is more than a title. It is an opportunity to grow in confidence, build leadership skills, and create lasting memories while representing your community in one of the most celebrated roles of the Fiestas de Las Vegas. Young women ages 16 to 24 are invited to apply for this special role. The selected Reina will lead the 138th Fiestas de Las Vegas Court alongside the Princesa and Damas, representing the spirit and tradition of this long-standing celebration. We are aiming to build a full court this year and return to tradition, strengthening the cultural celebration and community involvement. All candidates will also participate in the 138th Fiestas de Las Vegas Pageant on June 28. This unforgettable evening offers the chance to showcase poise, personality, and leadership while honoring a cherished community tradition. The deadline to apply is June 1. Applications are available online at www.lasvegasnm.gov. For more information, please contact Ane Roméro at 505-699-9330 or ane.romero7@gmail.com.

The commercial side-loader truck used by the City of Las Vegas Solid Waste Division for commercial routes is currently out of service. This may cause temporary delays along commercial routes. Crews are actively working to repair the unit and return it to operation as quickly as possible. All residential routes are on a normal schedule and will not be affected. In the meantime, staff is continuing service by manually collecting commercial bins. This process takes additional time and may result in temporary delays. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to maintain service. For questions or additional information, please call 505-617-1253 or the Transfer Station at 505-429-8340.

The Abe Montoya Recreation Center is now accepting registrations for its highly anticipated Summer Program for children ages 5–12. This program is designed to provide a safe, engaging, and enriching summer experience filled with recreation, learning, and fun. An Early Bird Special rate of $225 per child is currently available and has been extended through May 15, 2026. After this date, registration will increase to $275 per child, or $250 per child for families enrolling multiple children. Space is limited and expected to fill quickly, so families are encouraged to register as soon as possible to secure their child’s spot and take advantage of the extended Early Bird savings. The program will run June 8 through July 24, 2026, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For approximately $6.43 per day per child, participants receive full-day supervision along with breakfast, lunch, field trips, and a variety of structured recreational activities. Children will participate in sports, arts and crafts, park outings, swimming, and other supervised activities designed to promote physical activity, creativity, social development, and positive summer experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Registration must be completed in person at the Abe Montoya Recreation Center. For additional information, please call 505-426-1739.

The Kickoff Community Workshop for “What’s Next, Las Vegas,” held on March 9 at the Abe Montoya Recreation Center, was a great success. Thank you to everyone who joined and shared their input. The City of Las Vegas is currently updating its Comprehensive Plan, and community input is a key part of shaping the future of our city. Your voice matters in guiding decisions related to growth, infrastructure, and community priorities. If you were unable to attend the workshop, we warmly invite you to participate by completing our online survey. The survey is available at www.lasvegasnm.gov under “Community Development,” by scanning the QR code provided or at this link https://form.jotform.com/260765641843160. It includes the same questions discussed at the workshop, giving everyone a chance to contribute. We encourage all community members to take a few minutes to share their thoughts. Your feedback will help inform the planning process and support the future of Las Vegas, New Mexico. Please complete the online survey by Friday, May 15 if you have not already done so. The next steps in the planning process will be underway soon, and we look forward to continued community involvement as more information becomes available. If you have any questions, please contact Scott Zunker, City Planner, at 505-454-1401 or szunker@lasvegasnm.gov.

The Solid Waste Transfer Station will be closed for a half-day on Friday, April 17, beginning at 12:00 p.m., and will remain closed for the rest of the day. This temporary closure allows our staff to step away from regular operations and join efforts to care for and restore the Gallinas River Park. Operations will resume on Saturday during normal business hours. We appreciate your understanding and continued support. We invite the community to join us for a clean-up at the Gallinas River Park on Friday, April 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meet-up location will be on the south side of the Bridge Street Bridge. This is a family-friendly event—people of all ages are welcome. Gloves and trash bags will be provided. As part of this broader beautification effort, numerous staff members from Gas, Solid Waste, Water and Parks Departments staff have already been hard at work along the River Walk Park corridor. Crews have been working to address graffiti and improve the area, including prepping and painting the bridge north of Bridge Street. The bridge now features a bold purple finish as it is a gateway to New Mexico Highlands University, adding a fresh and vibrant touch to the river corridor. We are encouraged by the strong community response already received and look forward to a great turnout. It is always inspiring to see so many people come together for a shared purpose—your time and effort truly make a lasting difference in keeping our community and the Gallinas River Park clean, vibrant, and welcoming for all. For questions, please call 505-617-1253.

The City of Las Vegas is currently accepting applications from individuals interested in serving on various boards, commissions and advisory committees. Openings are available for the following: 🔸Board of Adjustment and Planning and Zoning Commission 🔸Design Review Board 🔸Police Advisory Commission 🔸Lodgers’ Tax Board 🔸Museum Board 🔸Library Board 🔸Airport Committee 🔸Tree Board 🔸Economic Development Advisory Committee 🔸Finance Advisory Committee 🔸Utilities & Public Works Advisory Committee 🔸Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee 🔸Senior Center Advisory Committee 🔸Veterans Advisory Committee 🔸Keep America Beautiful Committee Boards and commissions are appointed every two years per the City Charter by the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council. Advisory committees are appointed by the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council, and will serve at the pleasure of the Mayor for the entirety of the four-year term, unless otherwise determined. Serving on a board, commission, or committee provides an important opportunity for residents to have a direct impact on city policies, programs, and services. Your participation ensures that community perspectives are represented in local decision-making and helps guide the future of Las Vegas. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit a letter of interest outlining why they wish to be considered for appointment, as well as the qualifications and experience they would bring to the position. Applicants may apply for more than one board, commission, or advisory committee. Please indicate all areas of interest in your letter of interest. Please submit all letters of interest via email to clvpio@lasvegasnm.gov or deliver them in-person at City Hall in care of Mayor David Romero. Deadline for submission will be Monday, May 4 by 5:00 p.m. For questions or additional information, please call 505-454-1401, ext.1006.

Residents visiting parks across Las Vegas may notice something new alongside playgrounds and walking paths. The City of Las Vegas Parks Division has installed eight Little Free Libraries throughout the city, making it easier for families and neighbors of all age groups to pick up a book while enjoying time outdoors. The small book exchanges are designed to be simple and accessible. Visitors can take a book to read and leave one to share. With options for children, teens, and adults, the libraries help ensure that readers at every stage of life can find something to enjoy. Placing the libraries in parks allows people to access reading materials in spaces where they already spend time together. The new locations include Gallinas Riverwalk Park entrances on Independence Avenue and Raynolds Street, Hanna Park, Richard Padilla Soccer Park, Truder Park, El Creston Park, South Pacific Park, and Veterans Park. The effort reflects a long history of literacy work in the community. City Councilor Barbara Casey said the idea connects to the work of the Literacy Council of Northeastern New Mexico. “This project really grows out of years of community commitment to literacy,” Casey said. “The Literacy Council was founded by people who believed every child should have access to books, and that belief has carried forward through so many dedicated volunteers over the years.” The council was founded by Dorothy Maestas and Brown Bear. Volunteers including Elizabeth Ratzlaff, Cathy Kahn, Carol Winkel, Joann Martinez, Janet Remenyk, and Casey worked for years to provide free books to children through literacy fairs and community partnerships. Their efforts reached families across the area for more than two decades and helped build a strong culture of reading. Some of those early leaders, including Janet Remenyk and Brown Bear, have since passed, but their work continues to influence new efforts. The idea to place a Little Free Library in Hanna Park came from Joann Martinez, a former librarian at Carnegie Library, who recognized the park as a popular spot for families with young children. “Hanna Park is a place where families and young children spend a lot of time,” Casey said. “It just made sense to have books there, something accessible and inviting that could become part of their everyday experience.” Parks Manager Jeff Rudolph said the idea quickly expanded beyond a single location. “When I heard Councilor Casey bring up the idea at a Council meeting, it stuck with me right away,” Rudolph said. “If one park could benefit from a Little Free Library, why not add more? We already have a community that values reading and sharing books, so bringing that into our parks felt like a natural extension.” The Parks Division coordinated the purchase and installation of the libraries, and what began as a single proposed location soon grew into a project spanning parks across the city. Little Free Libraries will continue to support literacy for all age groups while creating more opportunities for residents to share books and connect with one another in neighborhood parks.

City of Las Vegas Animal Control is currently working to safely trap a pack of dogs that have been lingering around the Union Street area. Traps have been set, and the public is asked not to feed the dogs or interfere with them. Community cooperation is critical to the success of this effort. Feeding the dogs or disturbing the traps can delay capture, make the animals more difficult to safely manage, and increase risks for both the public and the animals themselves. Allowing Animal Control to carry out this work without interference helps ensure the dogs can be handled humanely, resolving the situation as quickly and safely as possible. Community awareness is important. Please notify Animal Control if you see the animals or notice any issues with the traps at 505 - 425 - 7504.