City of Rio Rancho

The board discussed and approved several items, including the Rancho Alegria Master Plan and a corresponding Zone Map Amendment, a variance for a single-family home development, a rear setback variance for a gazebo, and a Zone Map Amendment for a commercial property. Additionally, the board approved a site plan amendment for a church building expansion and a conditional use permit for a credit union. A request for a variance for a single-family home was postponed to a later date.

The board addressed a request for a variance to the rear setback requirement for a property located at 6317 Bald Eagle Place NE. The applicant proposed an encroachment to allow for an existing 320 square foot gazebo. The board reviewed the application, staff recommendations for denial, and feedback from neighboring property owners.

The Governing Body meeting focused on several fiscal and administrative matters. Key agenda items included the authorization of various budget adjustments for the Fire and Rescue, Public Works, and Utility debt service funds. The board reviewed and considered resolutions for the disposal of obsolete library property, the appointment of a member to the Planning and Zoning Board, and site plan approval for a restaurant project. Additionally, the meeting included public hearings regarding the Community Development Block Grant Fourth Annual Action Plan, the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, and the Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan for fiscal years 2027-2031. Action was taken to adopt the balanced budget for the 2027 fiscal year, the ICIP for 2027-2031, and the CDBG action plan, as well as the award of the Barbara Loop Reconstruction Project.

The Governing Body approved various resolutions including a budget adjustment for the State Appropriations Capital Fund and the disposal of property. Actions were taken to approve Small Brewer Off-Site applications for Turtle Mountain Brewing Company, site plan approval for an RV storage facility, and the adoption of the Vista Alegria Master Plan. An ordinance was approved to authorize the issuance of water and wastewater system improvement and refunding revenue bonds, and a zoning map amendment was passed for several properties. The City Manager provided updates regarding upcoming local community events and election dates.

The work session focused on several key items including a presentation from the Municipal Court regarding its budget request and an overview of the structural balance of the FY2027 budget by the City Manager. The budget overview included proposals for compensation adjustments, increased health insurance premiums, and investments in public safety, roadway maintenance, and utility infrastructure. Additionally, the Director of Public Works provided an update on road projects, including completed work since 2016, current road improvement initiatives, and upcoming projects funded by bonds and grants.