The Bayard City Council recently discussed proposed amendments to its emergency abatement ordinance, focusing on streamlining the process for addressing urgent public safety hazards. The revisions aim to shorten response times by keeping decision-making within the executive branch, allowing the mayor, with legal guidance, to authorize emergency abatements rather than requiring approval from a municipal judge. The ordinance would also require sworn documentation from reporting officers and place liens on properties to recover abatement costs in compliance with state law. A notice of intent to adopt the amendment is expected to be considered at an upcoming council meeting.
Cobre Consolidated Schools has announced the appointment of Dr. Verenice Gutierrez as its new superintendent, effective June 15. An experienced educational leader with approximately 30 years in the field, Dr. Gutierrez has held roles ranging from classroom teacher to district-level leadership, most recently serving as iConnect Zone Superintendent in Colorado Springs’ District 49, where she oversaw 13 schools and approximately 17,000 students. Her career is marked by a strong focus on student-centered decision-making, including leading significant gains in underperforming schools and earning recognition for advancing student achievement.
Today, Luna County youth from local FFA and 4-H clubs are participating in an Earth Day tree-planting project with the County Extension office on South Silver Street, at the historic “old” courthouse site. The effort, supported by a New Mexico Forestry Division grant, is part of a regional initiative involving six southwest New Mexico communities, including Deming, Lordsburg, Silver City, Santa Clara, and Bayard. The project focuses on replacing aging and dying trees with new plantings to improve environmental health, enhance shade, stabilize soil, and support long-term community well-being.
In Lordsburg news:
The Lordsburg Elks Lodge #1813 is offering $500 scholarships to graduating seniors at both Lordsburg High School and Animas High School, with two awards available at each school. Eligible students are encouraged to apply for the opportunity, which aims to support local graduates in their post-secondary education. Completed applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on May 8. For more information and to apply, visit the Lordsburg Elks Lodge #1813’s Facebook page.
