The City of Bayard is continuing to develop plans for the future of its 675-acre Foy property, which was purchased and annexed as an opportunity for long-term community growth. Community feedback identified a splash pad, indoor pool, playgrounds and trails among the preferred uses. Consultants also recommended using portions of the property to generate tax revenue that could help support public amenities and affordable housing. The property’s floodplain and existing infrastructure will be considered as the city moves forward with zoning, parcel divisions, potential tax-increment financing districts and other development steps.
The legacy of Jose Barrios will continue at the former elementary school, which is now home to Aldo Leopold Charter School. Although the charter school retains its own name, the building will continue to be known as Jose Barrios School, with its exterior sign remaining in place. Aldo Leopold also plans to create a history exhibit in the lobby and a mural highlighting the building’s history. Mr. Barrios, a longtime Silver City police officer and community figure, was honored when the elementary school was named after him.
Western New Mexico University is highlighting its economic impact on Grant County as the fall semester gets underway. During a recent address to local business leaders, WNMU President Jose E. Coll said the university contributes an estimated $101 million to the regional economy through university operations, student spending, alumni earnings and local business activity. WNMU also remains one of the region’s major employers and emphasized the university’s role in workforce development. President Coll said future priorities include expanding flexible education options and strengthening partnerships with local businesses to help students enter the regional workforce.
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The New Mexico Department of Health is warning residents that warmer temperatures and recent rainfall could extend mosquito season into the fall, increasing the potential for West Nile virus exposure. Health officials say West Nile is the most common mosquito-borne disease in New Mexico and recommend residents remove standing water around homes and businesses, wear protective clothing and use EPA-approved insect repellent, particularly during peak mosquito activity around dawn and dusk. The warning is relevant to Southwest New Mexico communities following recent periods of rainfall, although no current West Nile outbreak has been reported in Grant, Luna, Hidalgo or Catron counties.
