Bernalillo County

The meeting commenced with a roll call to establish a quorum. Key discussion points included establishing procedures for learning the new virtual meeting system, as there were initial difficulties admitting one member. The board approved the minutes from the previous session, noting feedback regarding the level of detail in the minutes, which will be summarized more concisely going forward. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the Sheriff's Office's decision to return to participation in the television program 'Patrol Live' (also referred to as 'Live PD'). The board discussed the need to review contracts related to this participation, referencing concerns raised in the 2022 annual report. They resolved to inquire with the County Attorney's office regarding contract availability and decided to place a formal discussion item on the next agenda. Finally, the board discussed logistics for the next meeting, confirming it will occur on the third Friday of the month, and considered hosting it at the Public Safety Academy, potentially followed by a voluntary tour, due to its suitability for including Sheriff's Office training and recruiting staff.

The meeting commenced with roll call, noting the absence of several members, including the resignation of one member and notification of absence from others. The board proceeded to approve the minutes from the September 8, 2023 meeting as written. Public comment was brief, with no individuals signed up to speak. The Sheriff's Office provided an update on Behavioral Health initiatives, including ongoing partnership activities with Care Campus, which involved participating in a fundraiser and ensuring deputies utilize Care Campus resources like detox services. An expansion of the Peer Support training program for officers was discussed, noting the involvement of the new chaplain who is also undergoing related training. A major initiative focuses on increasing the number of deputies trained in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training across all shifts and specialized units. There was extensive discussion regarding the review and approval of Draft Three of the 2023 Annual Report. Concerns were raised about the accuracy and tone of language pertaining to a previous incident involving the Sheriff's takedown of an individual, specifically regarding whether the report editorialized community reactions and whether prior recommendations from the 2022 report should be explicitly included or linked for the County Commission. The board agreed to address substantive language changes through a vote and that Minority Reports are permissible.

The meeting began with an order of business, following a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioners discussed agenda changes, including a motion to defer item 8C (a joint air quality control board appointment) and motions to pull item 8C off the consent agenda for discussion and to add item 8F to the agenda for consideration. The body recognized National Public Works Week (May 21st through May 27th, 2023), with several Commissioners expressing appreciation for the dedicated efforts of Public Works professionals in maintaining and improving county infrastructure. Following this, Commissioner Benson led a recognition ceremony for DECA students who placed in the top 20 nationally. The Extension Office provided an update on programming, including the hiring of new Family Consumer Science and Horticulture agents, upcoming classes such as Kitchen Creations and diabetes education, and preparations for the 4-H Fair. The presentation also detailed support for school garden efforts across the county, including collaboration with APS and preparation for a School Garden Conference to revitalize programs post-COVID, and highlighted the mental and health benefits of gardening.

The administrative meeting began with a moment of silence and a formal recognition honoring Sergeant Michael Schlapman of the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office who lost his life in the line of duty. Commissioners then addressed agenda modifications, including moving item 9B to the consent agenda and requesting a 60-day deferral for item 8A (Fleet and Facilities Management Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office shooting range) to further explore making it a true regional and regionally funded facility. A motion to defer item 7A (Economic Development and Community Benefits Resolution) was made and subsequently voted upon, with the commission ultimately deciding to hear the item later in the agenda following public comment, rather than deferring it entirely. The agenda was then approved as amended.

The meeting included a presentation from the County Treasurer's office, detailing high volume transactions during November and December, the distribution of $435 million to 90 entities (including a new taxing entity), and that property taxes and gross receipts taxes are on track compared to the budget. The treasurer also reported portfolio balances as of December 31st were $983 million, noting that lower investment income compared to the prior year is due to reduced federal interest rates and a drawdown of ARPA funds. The investment strategy update confirmed the intention to maintain current asset allocation, focusing on safety, liquidity, and managing maturities to cover ongoing needs. Additionally, the President and CEO of Main Bank provided an update on the $5 million deposit, emphasizing that the bank exclusively lends to local New Mexico owners and detailing their high volume of small business and commercial real estate lending activity. The process for revising the investment policy was also discussed, anticipating final adoption in the next meeting.