Mizel A. Garcia

Project RACE's evaluation report focuses on empowering youth and adults in Rio Arriba County to eliminate substance use and misuse by enhancing tools, skills, and connections. Key goals include increasing protective factors, decreasing risk factors, and building capacity and collaboration for demand reduction. The plan includes SMART objectives for the 2021-2022 fiscal year, such as increasing self-esteem among students, enhancing social connections within the community, and expanding mentorship programs. It also addresses reducing unemployment, delinquency, and truancy rates among youth, while increasing collaborations with county entities and building staff capacity through training and certification.

The committee discussed an update on Off-Highway Vehicles on city streets. They considered a proposed overtime agreement between the Española Police Department and Protos Security (Lowe's), and a Department of Justice Body Armor Grant Award. There were also department reports from Planning & Land Use, PROJECT R.A.C.E., the Police Department, the Fire Department, and the Municipal Court. The committee members commented on the importance of working together and addressing issues within their community, especially during the pandemic.

The committee discussed concerns from a constituent regarding property disturbance due to excavation and drainage issues. The status of Valley Estates signs was addressed, and a request for a walking trail was discussed. A study on utility connection costs was requested, and a formal process for street light requests was proposed. Assistance was requested for an elderly constituent without water service. An update on internet service installation was given. The Valley Estates project was discussed, including speed bump installation, potential one-way street designation, and street sign installation. Department overviews were provided by the General Services Department, Waste Water Treatment Plant, Streets Department, Water Department, Planning and Land Use Department, and Public Works Department. An update was given on the N. Prince Drive Cleanup.

The comprehensive plan outlines the community's long-range goals and aspirations for development, presenting a vision for the future. It focuses on strengthening the community's core in the Towne Center, restoring the city's connection to the natural environment, fostering regional and community-wide collaboration through communication and cooperation, creating entryway improvements to redefine the city's place in the region, and stabilizing the city's neighborhoods.

The Finance Board meeting agenda includes the approval of minutes from previous work sessions, public comments, committee updates, and councilor comments. Key discussion items include the Fourth Quarter FY20 Budget Report, a resolution approving the 2020 Final Quarter Financial Report, the FY 2021 Final Budget, and a resolution approving the final budget for Fiscal Year 20-21.