Las Cruces City Council reached a consensus on their future goals earlier this week, setting their legislative agenda for 2025. A robust mix of initiatives has been prioritized, ranging from environmental to policing efforts. The city seems keen on investing in infrastructure and social services that aim to benefit the community at large. Among the items greenlit for funding are the continuation of the East Mesa Recreation Complex and significant upgrades to public facilities, like the Branigan Library and the Museum of Nature and Science. Las Cruces officials announced their legislative capital outlay priorities following the Dec. 2nd regular session, according to the City of Las Cruces.
Leading the pack in financial commitment is the East Mesa Recreation Complex which looks to be in line for a $5.9 million booster, the site's master plan is set to unfold further. Addressing a different facet of public space, the Branigan Library is slated for a $5.6 million renovation to level floors and expand access. In the realm of transportation and environmentalism, the city is depositing $500,000 into the construction of an inductive electric bus charging station. Not left out is ADA accessibility which is underscored across multiple projects, underlining the city's commitment to inclusivity. Several projects, such as sidewalk expansions and improved public park lighting, are targeted at enhancing safety and sustainability, particularly the installation of additional intelligent street lighting that carries a $700,000 price tag.
The legislative appetite extends beyond tangible projects to encompass broader policy areas. Las Cruces is throwing its weight behind legislation on affordable housing and animal welfare, among others. Paid family medical leave is also on their radar, pairing social engagement with sustainability efforts. The support even stretches to public safety reforms and environmental health, focusing on initiatives like septic system abatement and creating sewer connections to preserve groundwater resources. These policy priorities have been covered in a unanimous resolution, signifying the council's collective push on issues they consider critical for the city's progression.
In a move tangential to these civic enhancements, the City Council approved the sale of two parcels of land to CH Industrial Acquisitions. These beauties measure a combined 22.4 acres and lie within the Las Cruces Innovation and Industrial Park. The going price was $795,200, as confirmed by official statements. The developers plan to establish cold storage facilities promising a capital investment of around $60 million for each. With these sales, the West Mesa is set to witness a surge in storage space and potentially, economic activity.
Interestingly, Councilor Bill Mattiace was noted absent during Monday's meeting, yet the absence did nothing to disrupt the unanimity of the council's vote. The council's commitments, now made concrete, await the 2025 New Mexico Legislative Session, where funding and policy support will be sought to convert plans into actions that are tangible and transformative for the citizens of Las Cruces.
