Here’s a look at today’s headlines:
At the Silver City Town Council Meeting yesterday, the council approved an ordinance, first introduced by District 1 Councilor Cynthia Bettison, which allows only reusable bags, recyclable paper backs, and/or cardboard boxes to be provided to customers by retailers at checkout. The ordinance will go into effect six months from its adoption date, July 8th, 2014.
Governor Susanna Martinez announced that California-based tortilla producer Franco Whole Foods will expand their manufacturing to Las Cruces. Opening the new plant will bring 160 new jobs to the area, and an average salary of $37,000 plus benefits. Franco Whole Foods will also qualify for JTIP, which assists companies by reimbursing 50% of wages while training New Mexico workers for new positions.
US Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced more than $500,000 will be awarded to the state of New Mexico for state-certified outdoor recreation and conservation projects. The money comes from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which has been an effective tool for creating and protecting urban parks and open spaces. Funding for the program is generated through reinvested revenue from offshore oil and gas leases, and was established in 1964 to ensure access to recreational resources for present and future generations.
Udall and Heinrich, along with other Senators, also introduced the Protect Women’s Health from Corporate Interference Act to restore the contraceptive coverage requirement and other services guaranteed by the Affordable Care Act, and prevent employers from imposing their beliefs on employees by denying benefits. According to Senator Heinrich, the legislation would “ensure women can make health and family planning decisions that are best for themselves and their families without interference from their bosses.”
WNMU President Joseph Shepherd announced the reopening of the dog park, pending certain conditions are met. The park will not re-open until necessary signs have been posted announcing the following rules: 1) Dog defecation is to be immediately removed by the owner, 2) Aggressive dogs are not allowed in the park, 3) In the event of a dog bite or injury, the owner or guardian must exchange current tag information and phone number, 4) dogs must not be unattended, 5) all dogs must be spayed or neutered, 6) no dogs under the age of four months are allowed to use the facility, 7) dogs with communicable diseases are not allowed on the premises, 8) all dogs shall be fully vaccinated and licensed, 9) female dogs in any stage of heat are not permitted, 10) small children must be closely supervised by an adult, 11) animals other than dogs are not permitted, 12) alcohol is prohibited, 13) glass bottles or containers are not permitted, 14) grooming of dogs at the park is prohibited, 15) excessive barking is prohibited, 16) owner assumes all liability associated with their behavior or their pet’s behavior, and 17) park is open from sunrise to sunset. These rules will be in place for a trial period of six months or until new rules are established.
