Public Safety & Fire Services
Public safety, particularly fire services, is a critical priority for Taos. Since 1933, the Taos Volunteer Fire Department has proudly served Taos. With a current fire district that serves 70% of Taos County residents, the department is staffed by 16 dedicated personnel who provide essential service around the clock. Over the past five years, the fire department’s budget has increased from $872,000 to $2,091,355 due to evolving community needs. Despite additional funding from the county-wide Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services tax approved by voters in 2022, we still face challenges. Without additional staffing, the Town’s ISO rating will decline, assuredly impacting insurance costs for residents. As your mayor, I will work collaboratively and creatively with town staff and regional partners to secure adequate funding and staffing for our fire services.
Aging Infrastructure
Our town faces substantial infrastructure challenges that demand immediate attention. The wastewater treatment plant is a prime example; originally intended to serve as a local facility. In addition to the population connected to the sanitary sewer, the WWTP receives up to 30,000 gallons of septic waste daily—nearing maximum capacity at times. As Taos continues to grow, our infrastructure needs will only increase. It’s crucial to distribute financial responsibility regionally rather than placing it solely on town residents. It’s crucial to plan for growth and share the burden of the cost of infrastructure development.
Furthermore, our water system, sewer network, airport, and other critical infrastructure require significant updates. My commitment as mayor is to proactively work with staff and the council to implement policies and secure funding for timely maintenance and necessary upgrades.
Recreation & Youth Facilities
Recreation is essential to our community’s health and vitality, especially for our youth. The recent loss of our ice rink at the Youth and Family Center due to fire has highlighted just how important recreational facilities are. Groups like the Taos Youth Hockey League, basketball players, swimmers, softball teams, soccer clubs, baseball enthusiasts, pickleball players, cyclists, frisbee golfers, skateboarders—and yes, golfers—each deserve quality facilities to practice and enjoy their sports.
The challenge lies in funding these regional amenities, which include the Taos Youth and Family Center, Taos Eco Park, Filemon Sanchez Park, Fred Baca Park, and Kit Carson Park. As mayor, I will prioritize finding innovative, collaborative funding solutions with our neighboring communities to sustainably support these valuable assets.
Housing & Workforce
Affordable housing remains a pressing issue in Taos. Progress is underway; in 2024, the town adopted an Affordable Housing Manual and awarded contracts aimed at accelerating new home construction. Seven lots are slated to be under construction by summer’s end, with additional measures being evaluated to streamline planning and permitting processes.
Our workforce is another critical area of concern. High turnover rates and numerous retirements, particularly within senior management, have strained our town’s operations. As mayor, I will prioritize recruiting, training, and retaining qualified personnel to ensure that town services remain timely, effective, and responsive to residents’ needs.
Town Management & Governance
Currently, the mayor can appoint only the town manager and attorney, down from five key positions previously appointed. This change limits our ability to assemble a cohesive administrative team aligned with our community’s goals. The New Mexico Municipal League is reviewing relevant statutes related to appointments, and while this isn’t a campaign issue, it’s something I’ll actively address once elected, ensuring effective town governance.
Final Thoughts
Taos faces complex challenges—from public safety and infrastructure to housing and governance. Our resources may feel limited, but our potential is vast. My commitment is clear: prioritize solutions, collaborate openly, and advance steadily towards a thriving, resilient community..