Here’s a look at some local news brought to you by Silver City Radio.

At the time of compiling this report, COVID-19 cases have increased in New Mexico to 2210 individuals. There is a total of 71 deaths in New Mexico from COVID-19. For our area, we have 14 positive cases of COVID-19 in Grant County 1 in Catron County and 3 in Luna County. In addition, statewide there are 121 individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 and 529 cases designated as having recovered by the New Mexico Department of Health.

According to a release from Western New Mexico University, the Board of Regents unanimously agreed to raise tuition and approved the fiscal 2020-21 student fees during an online meeting. In addition, the members approved the final Budget Adjustment Request and the 2019-20 3rd Quarter Financial Actions Report and tabled a vote on the fiscal year 2020-21 budget until the May 13th meeting. The proposed tuition rate increases as follows:

  • the resident undergraduate overall cost of tuition and fees by $11.18 per credit hour.
  • the nonresident undergraduate cost by $28.84 per credit hour.
  • the resident graduate cost by $11.95 per credit hour.
  • the nonresident graduate cost by $30.96 per credit hour.

The 4.25% increase to the in-state undergraduate tuition and fees was planned in response to the anticipated implementation of the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship. Board members agreed they may need to revisit the tuition rate once they have more information of the state’s overall budget.

The 50th Anniversary Earth Day was celebrated today with the International theme titled “Climate in Action.” Locally, a free live virtual event titled 2020 Gila Earth Day was available on Facebook that highlighted themes of resilience, community planning and response, and cooperation important to local efforts addressing climate change. Local students, organizations and other residents shared research and concerns about how to maintain a healthy environment. A recording of the event is available by visiting 2020 Gila Earth Day Celebration page on Facebook.

Silver City Radio reminds everyone to support local businesses. Visit silvercityradio.com for a list of open businesses in Grant, Luna, and Hidalgo counties.