ALAMOGORDO — The Alamogordo City Commission held its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 28, celebrating community achievements while charting a path forward for youth engagement and civic leadership development.

The all-commission board convened at 6:30 p.m. with all seven members present, including Mayor Sharon McDonald, Mayor Pro Tem Josh Reardon, and Commissioners Baxter Battillo, Steven Burnett, Warren Robinson, Al Hernandez, and Mark Tapley. The evening featured three major agenda items that highlighted the city’s commitment to public safety, economic development, and youth empowerment.

Fire Department Honors EMT Basic Graduates

The commission began with a celebratory presentation recognizing five firefighters who recently completed their Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic certification courses. The training, completed just one week prior to the meeting, represents a significant achievement for the fire department, which now has more than half its staff certified as EMT basics.

The course, taught by Eastern New Mexico University adjunct instructor Melissa Carter, required 180 hours of rigorous training spread over four months beginning in March. Graduates invested 90 hours in didactic instruction, 90 hours in skills development, and 48 hours in clinical ambulance experience—all undertaken while maintaining their regular firefighting shifts, some exceeding 48 hours per week.

“This class kept me on my toes,” Carter told the commission, noting that the cohort brought exceptional dedication to their studies. Remarkably, the class achieved a 100 percent pass rate on all exams, with no participant requiring retakes.

The graduates honored at the meeting included John Stroop, Nathan Preisner, Juan Valles, and Eric Martinez, who were present to receive their certificates and commemorative pins. John Stewart, a fifth graduate, was unable to attend due to personal reasons but will receive his certificate of completion.

Deputy Chief Lashley praised the graduates’ commitment, acknowledging the sacrifice required of both the participants and their families over the four-month period. “I know it’s been difficult, but you guys all pushed through and I couldn’t be prouder,” Lashley said.

Chamber of Commerce Outlines Ambitious Growth and Economic Development Strategy

Adam Hoppes, Executive Director of the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce, delivered an extensive presentation to the commission on the organization’s achievements and forward-looking initiatives. Hoppes, who has served with the chamber for nearly three years, announced the hiring of two new staff members designed to strengthen the organization’s capacity for community engagement and business development.

Pearl, a recent hire with a communications degree from Boise State University, brings experience from Portland, Oregon. Damien, a local returning to Alamogordo with a marketing degree from New Mexico State University, will contribute local knowledge and media expertise to the chamber’s social media and marketing efforts.

Major Projects and Achievements

Hoppes highlighted the successful completion of the F-4 Phantom II fighter jet monument—a project that represents a defining achievement for the community. The aircraft, which served at Holloman Air Force Base and was stored at White Sands Regional Airport for nearly seven years before restoration, now stands as a community symbol.

“This project stands as a testament to what Alamogordo and Otero County can accomplish when we all come together with a common goal,” Hoppes told the commission. The initiative required over 200 volunteers contributing more than 15,000 man hours and generating $175,000 in private donations. When accounting for in-kind contributions from local businesses like KE&G, which donated over $100,000 worth of concrete work and labor, the total project value exceeds $1 million.

The chamber’s work on the monument contributed to Alamogordo winning the prestigious Altus Trophy for 2025—an honor recognizing the community that best supports Holloman Air Force Base. The award places Alamogordo among elite communities including San Antonio, Phoenix, and Wichita Falls, many with significantly larger populations and resources. Notably, the chamber won the award two of the last three years, requiring a comprehensive 108-page submission packet developed in just one month.

Housing Crisis and Development Solutions

Hoppes addressed the critical housing shortage facing the community, noting that Holloman Air Force Base has identified a need for over 900 housing units. While two major projects—the Patriot Point apartment complex and Sendero complex—are underway, the chamber director emphasized they represent only a partial solution.

Patriot Point has made adjustments to its plans pending state approval, with groundbreaking expected in August or September. Sendero is under active construction, with buildings rising rapidly. Both developments have benefited from the city and county’s metropolitan rehabilitation tax rebate program, which Hoppes credited as essential to making these projects financially feasible.

Beyond these major developments, Hoppes revealed ongoing discussions with an investor group from Montana and Utah who are pursuing the conversion of a hotel near Dutch Brothers into long-term residential accommodations. “Their idea is to take the hotel and convert it to long-term stays, specifically to cater to the families at Holloman Air Force Base,” Hoppes explained. The group plans to offer weekly, monthly, and six-month rental options at competitive rates.

Another developer has completed a duplex and plans to break ground on eight additional units, with another 12 units planned near the hospital. Both development groups have requested incentive programs similar to the metropolitan rehabilitation tax rebate, prompting early conversations with city administration about potentially scaling down incentives for smaller projects.

Microplex Initiative and Regional Economic Strategy

Among the chamber’s most ambitious initiatives is the “microplex” strategy—a regional branding and marketing approach designed to dramatically expand Alamogordo’s economic reach. While Alamogordo’s city population stands at approximately 32,000, Otero County has a population of 67,000. By partnering with neighboring Lincoln County, the combined “microplex” would reach a population of roughly 100,000.

This increased population base matters because large corporations typically target communities with 45,000 to 50,000 residents. By repositioning the region as a microplex, the chamber aims to attract major retailers and service businesses that have historically bypassed Alamogordo.

“Alamogordo has notoriously not had large corporations come in because of the fact that we’re sitting at that stagnant 32,000,” Hoppes explained. The strategy is not novel—Clovis and Portales successfully implemented a similar approach in 2005, resulting in dramatic and permanent community transformation.

Air Service Study and Regional Jet Service

The chamber is spearheading efforts to bring commercial jet service to the region through the development of an air service study. In coordination with Holloman Air Force Base and the Airport Advisory Board, the chamber is creating a scope of work to assess the feasibility of regional jet service—potentially operating from Holloman rather than the regional airport.

Colonel John Etheridge, former wing commander of Holloman Air Force Base, provided written support for the initiative, stating that “the establishment of this air service study is a top priority for installation in the local community.” The rationale is straightforward: military personnel currently flying through El Paso faces significant costs in transportation, overnight parking, and lodging.

When asked about the cost of the air service study, Hoppes indicated initial quotes ranged from $7,000 to $90,000 due to unclear scope of work, but historical precedent suggests costs in the $15,000 to $20,000 range, potentially reaching $30,000.

Tourism and Recreation Initiatives

The chamber announced new efforts to position Alamogordo as “the hub of enchantment,” leveraging the region’s proximity to White Sands National Park, the New Mexico Museum of Space History, Cloudcroft, and Ruidoso. Targeted advertising in Las Cruces, El Paso, and surrounding communities aims to capture tourist traffic and spending.

A particularly innovative initiative involves White Sands recreational equipment rental. Drawing inspiration from ski towns like Ruidoso, the chamber is developing a rental program offering snowboards, sleds, tubes, and handicap-accessible wheelchairs specifically designed for sand dunes. The program would create an incentive loop: tourists rent equipment, enjoy White Sands, then receive discounts to patronize Alamogordo businesses.

Member Services and Support

The chamber now supports over 450 members through an expanded array of services. These include an online concierge using real staff members rather than AI chatbots to answer visitor questions, directed through the chamber website to member businesses. The chamber is launching a “black card” and loyalty program allowing members to offer reciprocal discounts, with analysis suggesting 400 participating members could immediately justify chamber membership dues.

Business spotlight initiatives on social media twice weekly are being expanded to city billboards, with a verbal commitment secured for display on the billboard outside the Alamogordo Zoo on White Sands Boulevard.

Leadership Development and Future Planning

The chamber is recruiting for Leadership Otero, a nine-month program for up to 20 participants designed to identify and develop the next generation of community leaders. “It’s important that we have a succession plan so there’s somebody left to carry the torch,” Hoff noted.

The chamber is also exploring the feasibility of Union Pacific train service to Alamogordo and early-stage conversations with a Las Cruces developer interested in building a new hotel with associated car wash and restaurant facilities on the site of the former burnt-down hotel near Applebee’s.

Subdivision Regulations Updated to Support Development

Prior to consideration of the youth commission, the city commission unanimously approved Ordinance 17-24, which repeals the city’s outdated subdivision requirements in Chapter 22 and replaces them with updated regulations in Chapter 20 of the Land Development Code.

Shelly Barron of the Community Development Department presented the ordinance, addressing concerns raised by commissioners in previous meetings. Commissioner Tapley had specifically questioned provisions related to extraterritorial jurisdiction and estimated construction costs. Those provisions have been removed from the ordinance and will be incorporated into a separate section of the land development code in the future.

Commissioners also sought clarity on a proposed 3% fee on developers to fund long-term maintenance of drainage retention and detention ponds. Barron provided specific examples: the Fairgrounds commercial subdivision development at Fairgrounds and White Sands Boulevard would incur approximately $20,000 under the 3% assessment, which aligns with annual maintenance costs for detention facilities. Somerset Village, a 47-home subdivision off Hamilton Road, would be assessed roughly $47,000—enough to cover approximately one and a half to two years of maintenance.

“I don’t think it’s an onerous amount on the developers to levy that,” Barron told the commission, arguing the fees represent reasonable cost-sharing for ongoing maintenance responsibilities.

The ordinance passed unanimously 7-0.

Public Expresses Support for Youth Commission, Raises Property Rights Concerns

Before the commission voted on the youth advisory commission resolution, the public comment period included passionate testimonials and a request for new property ordinances.

Youth Advocate Endorses New Commission

Nolani Nagamini, a young Alamogordo resident, addressed the commission with enthusiasm about the proposed Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission.

“As a young person growing up in Alamogordo, it means so much to me that our ideas, opinions and voices matter,” Nagamini told commissioners. “The Commission gives students like me the opportunity to learn, serve and help make our community better.”

Nagamini announced plans to be among the first applicants, stating: “I want to learn how our city works, develop leadership skills, and work alongside other students who care about making Alamogordo the best it could be. I believe this program will inspire young people to stand up, volunteer, and become future leaders.”

She emphasized that the program demonstrates youth can make meaningful contributions immediately rather than waiting until adulthood. “It shows students that we aren’t just the future of Alamogordo. We can make a difference today.”

Palm Tree Maintenance Ordinance Requested

Gina Donahue brought a focused but urgent issue before the commission: the need for a palm tree maintenance and property protection ordinance. Donahue presented photographs and documented evidence of damage caused by neglected palm trees in her neighborhood.

“Palm trees certainly add beauty and character to our community and this proposal is not intended to discourage residents from planting and enjoying them,” Donahue stated. “It’s about encouraging responsible maintenance so that one property owner’s neglected trees do not create hazardous and financial burdens for neighboring property owners.”

Donahue described specific hardships her family has endured. On June 28th, her air conditioning unit shut down twice—the only one in the neighborhood experiencing failure—due to debris from nearby palm trees. The debris, including large heavy fronds, seed pods, bark fibers, and flowers, collects around outdoor air conditioning condenser units, restricting airflow, reducing efficiency, and causing equipment shutdowns.

“In a community where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, a properly functioning air condition is not a luxury. It’s an issue for our health and our safety,” Donahue emphasized. She noted that modern air conditioning unit replacement costs can reach $20,000, and the debris creates wear that contributes to premature replacement.

Beyond air conditioning issues, Donahue raised concerns about safety hazards. Dead fronds weighing dozens of pounds can fall without warning, creating risks of damage to roofs, fences, vehicles, and neighboring properties. She also noted that fallen debris creates slip-and-fall hazards for elderly residents.

“Many neighboring property owners spend countless hours cleaning debris that do not generate on their own property,” Donahue said. “They bear the cost of cleaning gutters, maintaining landscaping, repairing damage property and protecting equipment that should not be affected by a neighboring tree.”

Donahue provided a draft ordinance proposal to the city clerk for consideration by city administration and legal counsel. The request reflects a broader tension between property rights and neighborly obligations in residential communities.

Community Celebrates Cleanup and Youth Opportunity

Kim Great White Owl Murillo spoke to celebrate the success of the city’s recent cleanup initiative and express support for the youth commission.

Murillo described the positive impact of the mayor’s citywide cleanup, emphasizing acts of service and neighborly love. “I met neighbors who had fallen on hard times and couldn’t keep their yards up and were so grateful and yet reluctant to accept our help but in the end they were so grateful,” Murillo recounted. “That’s just overwhelming for me—the gratitude and just to be of service to my community.”

She praised the physical results, noting her team was among the first to complete their dumping, and highlighted the enthusiasm and community spirit demonstrated throughout the cleanup day.

Regarding the Youth Advisory Commission, Murillo expressed deep approval. “It’s a vision that’s been in play and should have happened a long time ago,” she said. “I’m just so proud of what we are going to provide for the youth—meaning and purpose in their life. And they’re going to contribute to this city to leave a foundation for the next generations to come.”

Murillo also offered personal praise for Mayor Sharon McDonald’s leadership, acknowledging the challenges she has navigated. “And with all the nuances that you’ve had to battle with this last six, seven months and to stand alone as a woman against this force—you’re showing women everywhere of what it is for a woman to rise up, to be a true service to their city, to their citizens, and to the future.”

New Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission Approved

In a landmark decision, the commission unanimously approved Resolution 26-27, establishing the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission (MYAC). The initiative, presented by city administration and supported by Mayor Sharon McDonald and community liaison Cherie, aims to create a structured pathway for young people to engage in civic leadership and community problem-solving.

The commission will consist of 16 youth members representing grades 8 through 12, with representation drawn from each high school grade (three students from grades 9-12), one student from each middle school (eighth grade), and one NMSU freshman. The diverse composition intentionally extends beyond traditional high achievers to include youth from all backgrounds and experiences.

“We want the high achievers. We want the kids who sit by themselves in the cafeteria at lunch. We want them all to apply,” said one of the program coordinators during the presentation.

Program Structure and Objectives

The MYAC will hold monthly meetings lasting approximately 70 minutes after school hours. Youth members will receive mentoring and guidance from community volunteers and city administrators, including Eric Lucero from Christ Community Church and members of the Rotary Club who have already volunteered to serve as mentors.

The commission outlined several ambitious objectives for the initiative:

Leadership Development: The program will teach youth how to conduct effective meetings, establish agendas, and develop civic projects. Members will participate in workshops led by Toastmasters and NMSU personnel on public speaking and community problem-solving.

Educational Focus: Unlike many young people who learn about federal and state government in schools, the MYAC fills a critical gap by exposing students to the mechanics of local government—the forum where youth can potentially have the most tangible impact.

Volunteer Opportunities: Participants will earn documented volunteer hours applicable to college applications while contributing to real community improvement projects.

Community Engagement: The youth will conduct forums and surveys among their peers to identify community concerns and opportunities for improvement from a youth perspective. Some participants may also engage with Holloman Air Force Base leadership for inspiration and mentoring.

Program Timeline and Implementation

The commission approved an aggressive implementation timeline:

• Friday (following the meeting): Recruitment begins at the Back to School Block Party with information tables and applications

• August-September: School outreach and additional recruitment efforts

• September 8: First commission meeting with youth swearing-in ceremony

• September 14: Inaugural MYAC meeting with orientation

• October 13: Officer elections

• Ongoing: Regular meetings on the second Monday of each month through year-end

The Sacramento Mountains Foundation has already provided initial funding to launch the program. The city administration hopes the commission will leverage members’ community connections to recruit additional mentors and secure support from businesses and organizations.

Historical Context

The proposal to establish the MYAC reflects a return to a program that operated successfully in previous years. Commissioner Baxter Battillo was specifically called out during the presentation as a “poster child” for the program’s success, having served on a similar youth commission in his own youth before going on to city leadership.

City Hall Now Offers Extended Hours

City Manager Stockwell reported that City Hall has expanded its hours of operation, now open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The extended schedule is designed to provide citizens with sufficient time to conduct city business without rushing. Stockwell noted the city is receiving positive feedback from residents appreciating the additional access.

Commission Remarks Address Community Engagement and Public Services

During the remarks and inquiries portion of the meeting, commissioners celebrated community contributions and discussed administrative improvements.

Mayor McDonald addressed a citizen concern raised during public comment, noting she had spoken with City Manager Stockwell about implementing a budget billing plan for water bills—similar to programs offered by the power company. The plan would provide fixed-income residents with more manageable, predictable monthly expenses. “We are looking into that,” the mayor confirmed.

Commissioner Robinson provided an update on the city’s recent cleanup initiative, reporting that the effort addressed approximately 34 properties directly, with an additional estimated 26 properties benefiting from participation at multiple dumpster locations. Commissioner Robinson credited the commissioners who volunteered to staff various cleanup locations and praised all citizens who participated.

“When you have people that want to be there and they do their job and they’re out in the heat,” Robinson noted, acknowledging both the physical effort required and favorable weather conditions on July 18th when temperatures started at 66 degrees with a high of only 84 degrees.

The successful day was made possible by community sponsors including the Sacramento Mountains Foundation and Amy Tilson at State Farm Insurance. Robinson particularly highlighted the contribution of the Labor Hub, which provided 12 weed eaters and loaned additional equipment including lawnmowers, addressing chronic equipment shortages that typically challenge the annual cleanup.

Commissioner Robinson also acknowledged community organizations’ contributions, noting Porky’s Heating and Cooling’s annual golf tournament benefiting Base Otero raised over $25,000, and highlighting Thrive’s Bart Crow concert, which drew strong attendance and raised additional funds.

Meeting Actions

All agenda items passed unanimously by a 7-0 vote, including:

• Approval of the consent agenda

• Adoption of Ordinance 17-24 updating subdivision regulations

• Establishment of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission via Resolution 26-27

The meeting adjourned following the approvals, reflecting strong commission consensus on the city’s strategic priorities and community initiatives. The unanimous votes signal unified direction among commissioners on major policy initiatives, from regulatory updates to new youth development programs.

The Alamogordo City Commission’s focus on professional development for city employees, economic vitality, and youth engagement signals the city’s commitment to both immediate operational excellence and long-term community sustainability.

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