Here’s a look at today’s news:
The City of Bayard Town Council passed an ordinance this week that increases gross receipt taxes by one quarter of a percent, bringing the total amount to 7.875 percent on goods and services, excluding groceries and health care. This is the last increase that can be made before the issue would have to be presented to voters. It is reported that revenues earned from the increase will go to the municipal general fund. Other discussions at the meeting included Bayard wanting to continue as a municipality in holding their own elections or transfer the responsibility to the Grant County Clerk’s Office, and the filling former councilor Zeke Santa Maria’s seat on the council. Santa Maria passed away on September 8th, after serving as Bayard City Clerk and city counselor for many years.
The Gila National Forest, Quemado Ranger District has implemented closures effective September 30 at 12:00 noon for the Juniper Campground and the Pinon Campground. This closure is the standard seasonal closure when water is turned off and campground hosts are released. The El Caso Campgrounds are still available to forest visitors through November 30.
Protesters marched in front of the Deming/Luna County Humane Society on Saturday to voice their concerns about recent issues that have occurred at the Ruff Ruff Animal Sanctuary beginning in July of this year. An employee at the location admitted that 10 dogs died in his care due to negligence. The owner of the sanctuary received two citations earlier this month after he denied entry to the property for inspection by an animal control officer and Luna County Humane Society President, Matt Robinson. The protesters that marched on Saturday are comprised of community members who are concerned for the welfare of the remaining dogs residing at the sanctuary in addition want board members of the Humane Society to step down. This is because they approved the licensing of the sanctuary and has not taken appropriate actions against the reported violations.
The New Mexico Racing Commission will be hosting a public hearing this Friday to discuss the application submitted by “Hidalgo Downs LLC”, for the sixth license to operate a Live Horse Race Meet to the New Mexico Racing Commission. The proposed location of this project in Lordsburg will feature the operation of a Horse Track Casino and Rodeo that will also include the following amenities: a family water park; a horse racing and rodeo museum; a concert venue; and a 135-room hotel. The open meeting is scheduled for 1:00 P.M at the Lordsburg High School Gymnasium located at 307 West 4th Street.
