The Village of Ruidoso's ICIP outlines 10 key capital projects, with 5 priorities for the upcoming legislative session. These include workforce housing, bridge replacements, street and drainage improvements, sewer line rehab and extensions, water line upgrades, Upper Canyon renovations, tree removal, watershed improvements, damage repairs, and Rio Ruidoso restoration. The projects aim to enhance infrastructure, safety, and sustainability.

Residents of Ruidoso and the Mescalero Apache Reservation affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires or flooding between June 17 and Aug. 20, 2024, have less than five days to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The deadline is Oct. 19 to apply for FEMA aid or SBA low-interest disaster loans. Don’t wait—apply online, by phone, or visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Horton Complex in Ruidoso.

New Mexico residents impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires or flooding have until October 19, 2024, to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Homeowners and renters in affected counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation can receive grants that don't need to be repaid. Apply online, via the FEMA app, by phone, or in person at the Ruidoso Disaster Recovery Center before the deadline.

From October 9-12, residents affected by the recent fires and floods can receive expert advice at the Village of Ruidoso Community Center. FEMA specialists will provide guidance on repairs, rebuilding, and flood insurance. Don’t miss this opportunity to get valuable support and resources for your recovery efforts.

The New Mexico Tourism Department committed $125,000 to support tourism recovery in Ruidoso and Lincoln County after wildfires and floods. Combined with local funds, the total $200,000 will boost marketing efforts to encourage local shopping and visitor spending. This initiative aims to restore tourism and help the community recover economically.

The Ruidoso Community Center recently completed major renovations funded by a $372,826 grant from the NM Aging & Long-Term Services Capital Outlay Department. Upgrades include a redesigned commercial kitchen to enhance safety and efficiency, with improved sanitation measures, and renovated restrooms featuring new sinks, tile walls, and added privacy. These improvements ensure a cleaner, more functional space for community use.

The Village of Ruidoso (VOR) Workforce Housing Development at 603 Mechem is progressing with four of the ten homes on-site; the rest are expected by October 2024. Crews are preparing the sites, and utilities will be installed by January 2025. Berkshire Hathaway manages a waitlist for prospective residents. Contact 575-257-4011 for qualifications or 575-258-4343 ext. 1006 for project details.

The New Mexico State Board of Licensure outlines guidelines for restoring fire-damaged foundations, including structural assessments, material testing, and code compliance. In fire zones, soil suitability tests may be required for new foundations. For flood zones, rebuilding must comply with floodplain regulations, ensuring safety and stability.

Over $22 million in federal assistance has been approved for recovery efforts following the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding in New Mexico. FEMA, the SBA, and NFIP are helping homeowners, renters, and businesses with grants, loans, and insurance settlements. The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance is October 19, 2024. Visit disasterassistance.gov for more information.

Homeowners affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires or flooding may be eligible for financial assistance from FEMA and the SBA to repair or rebuild stronger homes. FEMA provides funds for mitigation measures like vent screens, non-combustible gutters, and elevating utilities. The SBA offers low-interest loans for home improvements to prevent future damage. Contact FEMA or SBA for more details.

Ruidoso Mayor Lynn D. Crawford has issued Executive Order 2024-01 to support recovery efforts after the South Fork and Salt Fires and subsequent floods. The order waives all permitting and installation fees for rebuilding destroyed properties, helping to alleviate financial strain on affected property owners and encouraging the community’s recovery and reconstruction efforts.

The SBA has approved over $6 million in disaster loans for New Mexico residents and businesses affected by the South Fork Fire, Salt Fire, and flooding. Assistance is available for the Mescalero Apache Tribe and Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba, and San Juan counties. The deadline to apply for property damage is August 19, 2024, and for economic injury is March 20, 2025. Apply at SBA.gov/disaster or call (800) 659-2955.

If you disagree with FEMA's disaster assistance decision, you can appeal within 60 days. Appeals are reviewed within 90 days, and you may need to provide additional information. Submit appeals online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by mail, fax, or in person at a Disaster Recovery Center. For detailed guidance, visit FEMA's official site or contact the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed House Bill 1, allocating $100 million for recovery from the South Fork and Salt fires and ongoing flooding. The funds include $10 million each for the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Energy Department, and Homeland Security, and $70 million in loans for local infrastructure projects. Residents can apply for FEMA assistance online, by phone, or at designated resource centers.

The Village of Ruidoso provides crucial updates for employers regarding Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax rates post-disaster. Contributory employers won't see charges for disaster-related benefits, while reimbursable employers are only charged for Standard UI claims. Employers can review rates, report refusal of work, and seek assistance via NMDWS. Visit www.dws.state.nm.us or call 1-877-664-6984 for details.

The Village of Ruidoso Community Development Department is transitioning all permits to a new online platform to simplify the process for customers. Business License Registration, Garage Sale, and Banner Permits are available online, and all permits will follow soon. Residents are encouraged to set up their portal log-in using the provided instructions to ensure seamless access as the system is fully implemented. Stay tuned for further updates.

The New Mexico Film Office announced that the feature film “Fight or Flight” wrapped filming in Ruidoso today on June 7, 2024. Directed by Shane Dax Taylor and starring Dolph Lundgren, Michael Jai White, Scott Martin, and Charlotte Kirk, the film employed over 100 locals. This project highlights Ruidoso's growing role in the state’s booming film industry, contributing to its over $1 billion economic impact in 2024.

The Village of Ruidoso has formed a Short-Term Rental Sub-Committee to evaluate the impact of short-term rentals. A Town Hall Meeting will be held on June 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Ruidoso Convention Center. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input on the ordinance. Your feedback is essential in shaping effective policies for our community's future.

The State of New Mexico CID will conduct general building and electrical inspections from May 27 to June 3, 2024. Plumbing and HVAC inspections will proceed as usual. No inspections for service changes, temporary power, and temporary to permanent electrical will occur during this time. Inspections requested after June 3 will be scheduled for June 4 with the Village of Ruidoso Building Official.

The Village of Ruidoso launches the 603 Mechem Drive project, advancing its workforce housing initiative. Ten new homes, blending modern convenience with traditional charm, are set to enrich the community. Key developments include upgraded utility lines, high-speed internet, and sustainable sewer/water systems. Construction activities promise transformation, underscoring Ruidoso's commitment to a vibrant and sustainable future.