Planning Commission Regular Meeting Agenda Zoom

PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

ZOOM/ YOUTUBE ONLINE MEETING 111 Sierra Blanca Dr., Ruidoso, NM 88345

Tuesday, February 2, 2021 – 2:00 pm

Attendance: In response to the Governor’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency and ban on large public gatherings, the Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday, February 2nd will be held via Zoom video conference.

Viewing: Members of the public will have the ability to view the meeting through Zoom and/or YouTube. Zoom meeting website: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86017071385?pwd=dmRzeEp2WkJscloxeWh1TVAwMlVxUT09

Meeting ID: 860 1707 1385

Passcode: 724296

One tap mobile: + 1 669 900 6833

YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiI01gVEgmVcl-vZLOxTN0w/featured. The YouTube channel can be streamed using this address from most smartphones, tablets, or computers. Public Comment: The Commission will take general public comments and comments on the meeting’s specific agenda items in written form via email at: [email protected]; fax: 575-258-4367 or by mail: 313 Cree Meadows Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345 before February 2nd at 10:00 am. These comments will be distributed to all Commissioners for review.

1. CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL, AND DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

2. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH RESOLUTION #2021-01

3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES a) Regular Meeting January 5, 2021

I certify that notice of the Public Meeting has been given in compliance with Section 10-15-1 through 10-15-4 NMSA 1978 and Resolution 2021-01. Agendas are available at Village of Ruidoso City Hall, 313 Cree Meadows Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345. If you are an individual who is in need of a reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter, or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in the hearing or meeting, please contact the Village Clerk at Village of Ruidoso City Hall at least one week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible.

5. PUBLIC INPUT (Limited to items not on Public Hearing Agenda and up to 3 minutes per speaker) Public Input must be submitted by email to [email protected] or by fax at 575-258-4367 before February 2nd at 10:00 AM. In addition, anyone wishing to speak during the meeting can do so by joining the meeting via zoom. 6. QUASI-JUDICIAL PUBLIC HEARING (all parties with standing shall have an opportunity for cross-examination.)

A) Simultaneous Submittal of Preliminary and Final Plat Submittal Case SUB 2020-0165- Request for approval the replat of Tract B of the Green Meadows First Addition Subdivision to develop 17 lots for the use of R-1 Single-Family Residential homes.

B) Conditional Use Approval Case CU 2020-1018- Sandy Whitt is requesting approval to operate mobile vending unit within in a C-2 Community Commercial District at Lot 7A-1 Block 9 of Palmer Gateway subdivision located at 384 Sudderth Drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico.

C) Variance Approval Request Case PV 2021-0025- Antonio Lara is requesting approval of a variance to encroach 10.7 ft. into the required 20 feet front setback. As well as 6.5 ft. onto the required 10 feet side setbacks as designated by the C-2 Community Commercial District to construct a Bedroom with Bathroom on lot 283 A of Skyland Subdivision located at 233 South Evergreen Street, Ruidoso, New Mexico.

7. PUBLIC HEARING

A) Metropolitan Redevelopment Area Draft Plan Public Hearing: to present information and get public comments on MRA Draft Plan; making certain findings and determinations pursuant to the New Mexico Metropolitan Redevelopment Code and approving the designation of the boundaries and area of approximately 35 blocks that is generally described as the approximately 3.5 mile Sudderth Drive corridor from the Main Road roundabout on the west to US 70 on the east. Action: Recommendation of approval or disapproval of the Draft Plan to the Village Council.

8. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REPORT

9. COMMISSIONERS COMMENTS

10. ADJOURNMENT

LEGAL NOTICE

RUIDOSO PLANNING COMMISSION NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING

The Ruidoso Planning Commission will hold a Regular Meeting scheduled on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.

ZOOM/ YOUTUBE ONLINE MEETING 111 Sierra Blanca Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345

Attendance: In response to the Governor’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency and ban on large public gatherings, the Planning Commission meeting will be held via Zoom video conference.

Viewing: Members of the public will have the ability to view the meeting through Zoom and/or YouTube.

Zoom meeting website: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86017071385?pwd=dmRzeEp2WkJscloxeWh1TVAwMlVxUT09

Meeting ID: 860 1707 1385

Passcode: 724296

One tap mobile: + 1 669 900 6833

YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiI01gVEgmVcl-vZLOxTN0w/featured. The YouTube channel can be streamed using this address from most smartphones, tablets, or computers. The video recording of this meeting will also remain available for viewing by request. Community Development is available to help members of the public access pre-recorded Council meetings on-line at any time during normal business hours. Please call (575) 258-4343 x: 1065 for assistance.

Public Comment: The Commission will take general public comment and comment on the meeting’s specific agenda items in written form via email at: [email protected]; fax: 575-258-4367 or by mail: 313 Cree Meadows Drive, Ruidoso, NM 88345 before February 2nd at 10:00 am. These comments will be distributed to all Commissioners for review. These comments will be distributed to all Commissioners for review.

A digital copy of the complete Planning Commission packet will be made available online on the Village of Ruidoso website 72 hours prior to the meeting. The Planning Commission will hold quasi-judicial public hearings for the following items: A) Simultaneous Submittal of Preliminary and Final Plat Submittal Case SUB 2020- 0165- Request for approval the replat of Tract B of the Green Meadows First Addition Subdivision to develop 17 lots for the use of R-1 Single-Family Residential homes.

B) Conditional Use Approval Case CU 2020-1018- Sandy Whitt is requesting approval to operate mobile vending unit within in a C-2 Community Commercial District at Lot 7A-1, Block 9 of Palmer Gateway subdivision located at 384 Sudderth Drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico.

C) Variance Approval Request Case PV 2021-0025- Antonio Lara is requesting approval of a variance to encroach 10.7 ft. into the required 20 feet front setback. As well as 6.5 ft. onto the required 10 feet side setbacks as designated by the C- 2 Community Commercial District to construct a Bedroom with Bathroom on lot 283 A of Skyland Subdivision located at 233 South Evergreen Street, Ruidoso, New Mexico.

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing for the following item:

By order of the Planning Commission: Samantha J. Mendez Community Development Director

If you are an individual with a disability who is need of a reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter, or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in the hearing or meeting, please contact the Village Clerk at least one week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible. Public documents, including the agenda and minuets can be provided in various accessible formats. Please contact the Village Clerk if a summary or other type of accessible format is needed. VILLAGE OF RUIDOSO PLANNING COMMISSION, REGULAR MEETING 111 Sierra Blanca RUIDOSO, NM 88345 January 5, 2021 DRAFT

CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL:

The regular meeting was called to order by Chairman Alan Briley at 2:00 p.m. Commissioners Briley, Byars, Kelly and Tondino were recorded present at Ruidoso Convention Center; Commissioners Michelena and Collier were recorded present on Zoom; Commissioner Williams was recorded absent: Village staff present was Samantha J. Mendez, Community Development Director; Zach Cook, Village of Ruidoso Attorney and Jacquelyn Abeita, Administrative Assistant. There were 6 visitors present virtually and 1 present in person.

CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE WITH RESOLUTION 2020-01: Jacquelyn Abeita stated the notice of the meeting was properly posted in accordance with Resolution 2020-01 and section 54-40 of the Village Municipal Code.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Commissioner Tondino moved to approve the agenda. Commissioner Bryars seconded and the motion carried with all ayes.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Tondino moved to approve the December 1, 2020 minutes. Commissioner Kelly seconded and the motion carried with all ayes.

PUBLIC INPUT: (Limited to items not on Public Hearing Agenda and up to 3 minutes per speaker.)

There was no public input in person, Director Mendez also stated nothing was submitted through fax, phone or e-mail for public input.

Chairman Briley asked that all in attendance who would be speaking at the meeting please stand to be sworn in. Applicants and staff did so accordingly.

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Public Hearing on Case #CU 2020-1002 Director Mendez stated JR Montoya is presenting to have approval for conditional use to operate an automotive repair shop with in a C-2 Community Commercial District, located at 1015 Mechem drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico.

Director Mendez allowed Mr. Montoya to present his case as follows.

Mr. Montoya stated his proposal is automotive accessories and small repair. He has looked over the zoning of the district C-2 and service stations being 12,000 square foot. The type of service station to his understanding would be gas stations. Mr. Montoya’s type of work would be appointment only and drop off. Allowing him to control the parking spaces needed and also being occupied. Mr. Montoya knows that this property does not meet the code of square footage minimum requirement of 12,000 sq. ft. He was questioning if he would need to apply for a variance due to this property not reaching required square footage. From being in a partnership with another business before having experiencing the same issue of not meeting the square footage. This property has an enclosed garage, if he needed to store a vehicle there then it would be possible to do so and keep everything enclosed and not a nuisance to the public. Mr. Montoya went to the business and/or properties around 1015 Mechem Dr. and has informed them of his intentions and obtain signatures in agreeance for his business.

Chairman Briley asked Director Mendez to address the service station issue for Conditional use.

Director Mendez stated it does require a 12,000 sq. ft. lot. This instance it does not meet the minimum standard as per code. It would not be a variance because it is a hardship on the land itself. Mr. Montoya does not have enough land for a service station. The use of this property does not fall under the circumstances of service station nor gas station. The code does not have any specification for custom automotive accessory, which would make Mr. Montoya under the category of Automotive Repair. It would be up to the Commission’s discretion to not enforce the 12,000 sq. ft., as to previous times other mechanics within the Village that do meet the 12,000 sq. ft. minimum. Hometown has been existing at location since prior to the Village Code. The parking issue they had at the time was solved by Hometown buying land that surrounded the property help increase the parking spaces made available for the business. However, that is a separate issue.

Director Mendez stated a reminder to the Commission to consider the use of this parcel that we are discussing today, and it is up to the commission for the 12,000 square foot rule as well as she does not wish to see another vacant building in the Village or on Mechem Dr.

Chairman Briley asked Director Mendez the total square footage of the property as 9500 sq. ft. is that correct. As commission proceeds with this, if the planning commission were to grant the conditional use of the C-2 they are allowing him to be at that location, without meeting minimum size of lot. Commission’s approval gives an essence of a variance.

Director Mendez not following the condition of the 12000 square feet of automobile service stations and the code implies more towards the gas stations and repair shops that are higher end and not towards this accessory installation service Mr. Montoya is offering. The commissioners can approve or not.

Chairman Briley asked the commissioners to look on page 7 of the case report, to look at the definitions of automobile service stations. Chairman Briley agrees with the service station definition,

2 but this type of service Mr. Montoya is offering acts like a service station but not necessarily a service station by definition.

Chairman Briley asked if anyone wanted to ask the applicant any questions.

Commissioner Michelena asked exactly what type of services he will be offering.

Mr. Montoya responded, he does a lot of work for Sierra Blanca Motors as well as other automotive business here, stocking LED lighting as well as BMW hitches. Explained that in a section of the building he is intending to have a showroom of all the accessories he will be offering as well as installing. The shop portion would be used to install the accessories, such as mentioned before along with bumpers, winches, performing oil changes. Mentioned he does have an exhaust machine. His intentions are to do more of the accessory installations and not so much of the more pretentious style of work.

Chairman Briley opened the Public Hearing 2:15 pm

Mike Myers spoke for this case. Mr. Montoya has opened other business that have been successful and better for VOR to have successful business than more vacant buildings within Village of Ruidoso.

Dallas Draper spoke for this case. Mr. Montoya has done business for Mr. Draper and to have an accessory shop for vehicles would be great for the village of Ruidoso as well as keeping it local. Some patrons are not mechanically inclined and to have a shop to take them to, just to install these types of accessories would be ideal.

Kaitlin Brophy spoke for this case. Brophy is a resident on Hanson Dr. also excited for this business to occupy the current vacant building. This business will thrive and build the community. She also knows Mr. Montoya on a professional level, stating that he will keep this area cleanly, very pristine shape. Expressed her excitement to have Mr. Montoya’s business apart of the area as well as part of the community.

Chairman Briley closed public hearing at 2:19 pm

Commissioner Bryars made motion: Based upon the forgoing findings of fact per 54-68 and 54-100 of the Village Code, I move to GRANT the requested conditional use approval for Case #CU 2020-1002 with the conditions stated in the case report.

Commissioner Michelena Seconded the motion.

Chairman Briley asked Mr. Montoya if he has read and understands the conditions and recommendations that have been placed on the case.

Mr. Montoya stated that he has seen the conditions and recommendations.

Jacquelyn Abeita called roll to record the votes:

Chairman Briley: Aye Commissioner Byars: Aye Commissioner Kelly: Aye Commissioner Michelena: Aye Commissioner Tondino: Aye

Motion carried with all ayes

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Public Hearing on Case #CU 2020-1010 Director Mendez stated Rebecca and will Ponders requesting conditional use for manufacturing alcohol beverage with in C-2 Community Commercial district, located at 813 Carrizo Canyon Road in the Hutson/ Carrizo subdivision Lot 6& 7, block 1.

Director Mendez allowed Mr. Ponder to present his case as follows.

Mr. Ponder introduced Mrs. Ponders and stated they are the owners of Glencoe Distillery. They have been manufacturing at Glencoe for 3 years now, had a tasting room as well as manufacturing alcohol. The partnership with previous land owners of Glencoe decided they did not want to be part of the Distillery any longer. As the Ponders were leasing the space from previous partners, until they put the building for sale. Causing the Ponders to move their business to a different location. They have had a hardship finding property with buildings to accommodate their business in Ruidoso or Ruidoso Downs. This location is zoned for Restaurant and food services, but not manufacturing alcohol. This is a request to install the distillery equipment and continue manufacturing alcohol. If approved, future plans are to expand to possible tasting room as well as café/restaurant. The Ponder’s already have approval from the Tobacco and Tax Bureau permit to manufacture the alcohol.

Chairman Briley asked about parking spaces from site plan it does not specify any designated parking. Mr. Ponders stated on the South side as well as West side of the building there is plenty of space for parking. As far as for just being a Distillery not much required parking, in future plans there is plenty space for parking.

Chairman Briley stated future plans consist of becoming a tasting room as well as a café. Mr. Ponders stated yes he wishes in further into the future of having a tasting room as well as an outdoor patio like café.

Chairman Briley asked Director Mendez if this was in city limits, or are both sides of this property in city limits as well. With the back of the east not being in city limits, East side of property is county. Director Mendez stated that the east side of property is against county limits and they have no zoning, which means it could be anything at any given time, as currently it is being used as

4 residential. Also pointing out that this type of operation was strongly supported by the Comprehensive Plan as well as a Village goal to encourage these types of businesses to start within the village.

Chairman Briley opened the Public Hearing 2:28 pm

No comments

Chairman Briley closed the Public Hearing 2:28:23

Commissioner Kelly made motioned: Bases upon the forgoing findings of fact per Sec. 54-68, 54-100 abs 54-145 of the Village Code, I move to APPROVE the requested conditional use in Case #CU 2020-1010 with the conditions contained within the case report.

Commissioner Bryars Seconded the motion.

Jacquelyn Abeita called roll to record the votes:

Chairman Briley: Aye Commissioner Byars: Aye Commissioner Kelly: Aye Commissioner Michelena: Aye Commissioner Tondino: Aye

Motion carried with all ayes

Old Business: Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing: Continuation of Public Hearing for Preliminary Development Plan Approval Case #SP 2020-0749 Chairman Briley asked Director Mendez if we need to present the case again due to this being a continuation, as it was recorded in the last minutes.

Director Mendez stated No, due to everyone in attendance, was in attendance from the previous hearing. The case study was not updated, additional information is supported as requested from the previous meeting. A professional site plan was supplied as well as his description of operations are provided at the end of the case report. Mendez stated that Jesse was on the call, as well as his representative.

Mr. Townsend stated his presence, clarified that his representative was not present due to some miscommunication.

Chairman Briley stated to the commissioners that they requested more details on his site plan that he represented previously, hoping that everyone has had a chance to review the new site plan. Chairman Briley asked for commissioners comments.

Commissioner Tondino stated a question to Mr. Townsend regarding the 40 ft. easement, is that going to be used for the driveway?

Mr. Townsend stated that he is using that existing gravel driveway.

Commissioner Tondino stated he has noticed that the location of all the activities there was no entrance to that parking lot. For future references on a site plan to not have the entrance way be counted as parking lot spaces.

Chairman Briley stated that Mr. Townsend would be losing 2 parking spaces due to making an entrance and exit for those activities.

Chairman Briley to Director Mendez stated a letter from Ron and Jill Andrews regarding the easement and access, didn’t understand what the letter was for.

Director Mendez stated that it was regarding any impact to the existing horse equestrian parking lot.

Chairman Briley asked the attorney if the commission needed to reopen the public hearing because it is a continuation of the public hearing. In this case chairman Briley asked if anyone was present to speak on this case. Then he would open the public hearing.

No one responded for Public Hearing.

Chairman Briley stated there will be no Public Hearing.

Director Mendez stated that Commissioner Collier has joined the meeting.

Chairman Briley stated to commission Collier that they were on the Jesse Townsend Tract case as well as gave a briefing of all the issues bought up prior to Commissioner Collier joining the meeting.

Commissioner Bryars made motion: Based on the forgoing findings of fact per sec. 54-67 of the Village Code, I move to APPROVE the James Townsend Tract 1A proposed Preliminary Development Plan for Case #SP 2020-0289 to proceed onto the next step of approval to the Village Council for approval to then advance to the next step Final Development Plan.

Commissioner Tondino Seconded the motion.

Jacquelyn Abeita called roll to record the votes:

Chairman Briley: Aye Commissioner Byars: Aye

Commissioner Kelly: Aye Commissioner Michelena: Aye Commissioner Tondino: Aye Commissioner Collier: Aye

Motion carried with all ayes

New Business Discussion and Possible adoption of Resolution 2021-01 Open Meetings Act. Chairman Briley stated this is an annual resolution that all counties do that states the legal laws to have open meetings, as well as a set schedule of when the Planning commission will meet. Chairman Briley has asked the commission last year if the first Tuesday of every month at 2:00pm would be a good time and no objections as last year.

Commissioner Tondino motioned to APPROVE the Resolution 2021-01

Commissioner Kelly seconded motion.

Jacquelyn Abeita called roll to record the votes:

Chairman Briley: Aye Commissioner Byars: Aye Commissioner Kelly: Aye Commissioner Michelena: Aye Commissioner Tondino: Aye Commissioner Collier: Aye

Motion carried with all ayes.

Pre-application and Sketch Plat Review Case SUB 2020-0997 Director Mendez stated that this is a new subdivision proposal by sketch plat tract 1A track 2 Forrest Hills Subdivision. The applicant Tom Lindsey hired Sauder Miller and Associates to design as well as engineering for this development site. The proposal is to take tract 1A and tract 2 and divide them into 60 lots. Kevin Salcido will be presenting on behalf of Mr. Lindsey.

Chairman Briley asked Mr. Salcido to present as well as asked Mr. Salcido where the access roads and easements are in the plan and instead of Public Rights of Way.

Mr. Salcido Introduced himself as stating working for Sauder Miller. Stated Mr. Lindsey is not able to attend due to a family emergency at the time. The intent of the sketch plat is the access would come from Chaves Road, then emerge into private road ways which all the lots are intended to have access through these private road ways. Intentions of working with the village to implement which type of road ways would be acceptable. Also being in compliant with the village standards for roadways, and the roadways being private.

Chairman Briley stated that the applicants for this development understand what private roadways mean as far as maintenance, care and snow removal of the driveways.

Mr. Salcido confirmed that they do understand the definition of private roadways.

Chairman Briley asked Director Mendez for clarification of the sketch plan process is verification of general compliance of Village Code then request for Preliminary Plat.

Director Mendez agreed. Also stating that Mr. Lindsey is ahead of the process and drew in the 5 ft contours, the lots are set at minimum width and length. Being they hired Sauder Miller they are in the right process as well as good start to keep this moving forward. As well as from the sketch plat it meets code.

Chairman Briley asked if the commissioners have any questions.

Commissioner Bryars stated he had questions to regards utilities if water was to be coming from the Village as well as sewer being tied into the Village system. This will be a continuation of the rehab that is being done on the sewer system to accommodate the increased load.

Mr. Salcido stated that he is correct. The company is working with the Village to extend the sewer line through Chaves road and connecting into the main line. As for the water he is working with Adam Sanchez as well as submitted a utilities application and Adam has confirmed that they are allowed to tie into city waterline.

Chairman Briley asked if there was valley in the middle of the subdivision after looking at the contours.

Mr. Salcido stated there is quite a bit of terrain in this area. Intentions are to have access from the high points of the properties this would allow them to do minimal grading and disturbance because of the grades that already exist. Also to include to minimize the excess drainage that is going to have to be taken care of.

Chairman Briley stated that is a very good point to discuss, is there any intentions of having on lot drainage or making ponds at the bottom of the hills. What is the plan for drainage and run-off?

Mr. Salcido stated they are going to see what they can do. As they are planning on resurveying the land to see if these contours are correct. To obtain the knowledge of where the run-off paths and locations will be. Possibility to use some of the drawn lots for drainage facilities. The current sketch plat is showing the maximum of land use for the number of lots, possibility of reducing the number of lots based on implementing a park or having an area for solid waste, as these topics have been discussed with the client and they are looking at all possible options for this situation.

Chairman Briley stated with the contours will all lots be able to be serviced by sewer or is there going to have to install some septic and pump stations.

Mr. Salcido stated there is a possibility of having one or two lots that may have to install a grinder pump to push it out in order to push it out. For the most part the lots are all having possibility of being connected to the sewer system.

Commissioner Briley stated to the south according to the sketch plat he sees Valencia road. Is there any partnership for accessing Valencia Road from the South?

Mr. Salcido stated the applicant Mr. Tom Lindsey has been in contact with the landowner below that they are working on having access through his property and they are looking into connecting those two pieces for connectivity but it is in process of becoming a possible access way to Valencia Road.

Commissioner Collier asked a question about having emergency vehicle access and is this too early to question or planning this concern?

Mr. Salcido stated to his knowledge they would be able to access through Chaves Road, which comes off of Mechem and Rio Arriba that feeds the area. As well as other small road ways to the south of the development site. As well as Chavez road comes in from the north and it connects another subdivision. The east side of the division will connect to Hidalgo Road. As stated before the South side connects to Valencia. Plenty of access for emergency vehicles. All properties to the North, East, and South are developed. When they are planning the road ways they will be implementing the measurements for the emergency vehicles and that they are met to the Village Code.

Chairman Briley stated for clarification for the next step of this development being that they are approved to move on to the next step.

Director Mendez stated in agreeance

Commissioner Tondino asked if the private road ways would have an impact on the size of the lots, being that they are going to have easements, will this affect the minimum dimensions?

Director Mendez stated that she will be working with him to make sure they are acceptable to the village because, the solid waste trucks as well as emergency vehicles will be using the road ways. They will work with Mr. Salcedo to implement the turnaround for the fire trucks as well as meeting the minimum requirements for that nature. Overall they may lose some lots due to the requirements for vehicle access.

Chairman Briley stated for Mr. Salcido to proceed with the next step of the process.

Community Development Report:

Subdivisions moving forward with the processing, hoping to present the green meadows subdivision in February or March. The department is going into the strategic planning process at the end of January. The rewrite of Chapter 54 has been funded and went out for RFP but have not received all the proposals yet, but that is the next step in February. Will be reviewing chapter 54 for all the discrepancies that it has currently. Metropolitan Redevelopment Plan at the February meeting and it will be a draft as well as in the form of a Public Hearing then go to Council in March depending on Planning Commission recommendation. The Department has purchases the Buxton Analytics to help us know who we need to market to as well have how we can market for people to come to Ruidoso, as well as an economic recovery, as well as the Village having some leakage in some retail and services we may lack as the Village.

Commissioners Comments: Daymon Lindsey has stated that is in presence in behalf of Tom Lindsey, was unsure to speak or not. Concern is to joint trench sewer and water line. Director Mendez stated that they would have to get in contact with Adam Sanchez.

Daymon Lindsey stated if that is possible it would lower the cost of the project. Also questioned if this area was zoned for condominiums, against Chavez Road?

Commissioner Briley stated that page 4 of the case report, states that it is zoned an R-1 single family district. Director Mendez agreed that it was zoned as R-1 and stated that it would not afford the applicant Multi-family housing.

Daymon Lindsey asked if any of the land could be rezoned to meet the multi- family housing.

Commissioner Tondino stated that none of the close properties are zoned as R-3. That they are mostly zoned R-1, a couple of them are zoned as C-2 as well as M-1. Director Mendez stated that they could not rezone that property because it is considered spot zoning, and the property would not be allowed multi-family housing.

Daymon Lindsey stated if we could get a definite answer for the joint trenching to help lower the cost and is still interested in moving forward with this development of this subdivision. Director Mendez stated that she can direct this question to Adam Sanchez.

Commissioner Collier asked a question about the zoning on page 4 clarifying the zones all around the proposed subdivision. Is there any point of rezoning for transition from an R-1 to an M-1 that borders the area?

Commissioner Tondino stated that it would not be in the best interest because M-1 is for mobile homes. Commissioner Collier asked for which side the new single family owners or the existing mobile home owners. Due to the new home owners in the new subdivision having to be against an M- 1 district, and wanting to open up a discussion of this concern. In prospective of a home buyer, they

10 wouldn’t want to buy a house butted up a mobile home as well as the home becoming less valuable due to being next to a mobile home.

Chairman Briley clarified Commissioner Collier’s statement as having a transition section or buffer from a single family to a mobile home district. Commissioner Collier stated to implement with some kind of incentive to help the applicant proceed with the development of the subdivision successfully.

Commissioner Tondino stated that having to drive around that area many times as well as looking at the map, there is only 1 to 3 properties to the North that are mobile homes and not as the map shows the whole area being mobile homes, most of those are site built homes due to the contour of the land.

Daymon Lindsey stated about an inconclusive mobile home being near the property they are planning on buying and demolish the mobile home itself.

Commissioner Collier stated that there is a zoning for mobile home district.

Commissioner Tondino stated for the best interest of the Village of Ruidoso that they do not add any more mobile home districts. Also doesn’t agree with having to rezone anything for a transition, and to leave the R-1 as R-1 zoning so it gives the opportunity to have more site built homes which in result will elevate the value in the surrounding areas.

Chairman Briley stated that the only difference of M-1 and R-1 is the size of mobile homes that are allowed in the two districts. Referenced to Director Mendez being able to pull the districts up. In R-1 there are more specific of which manufactured homes that are allowed and not allowed in the R-1 zone. Director Mendez agreed with Chairman Briley of his statement and that we are not allowed to discriminate based on structure type.

Commissioner Collier stated that the South side would be the side that has the Mobile home issue. Daymon Lindsey stated yes they are trying to keep the new homeowners away and as far as they can from that mobile home that is unconducive to the area.

Director Mendez stated that she had contacted Adam Sanchez via text message about the joint trenching, and stated that is not allowable, and need to be 7 feet apart. Director Mendez and Chairman Briley stated that it is an EPA law. Director Mendez stated that she would work with the Lindsey’s.

ADJOURNMENT:

With no further information being provided to the Planning Commission, Chairman Briley adjourned the regular meeting at 3:05 pm.

MINUTES ARE DRAFT UNTIL APPROVED AT THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING

Passed and approved this ____ day of ______, 2021.

APPROVED: ______Alan Briley, Chairman

ATTEST: ______Jacquelyne Abeita, Administrative Assistant

Planning Commission Convention Center – 111 Sierra Blanca Drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico 88345 Case Report – Condition Use Request #CU 2020-1018

Subject Property: 384 Sudderth Drive Legal Description: Block 9, Lot 7A-1 Zoning: C-2 Community Commercial District Applicant: Sandy & John Whitt Subdivision: Palmer Gateway Hearing Date: February 2, at 2:00 p.m.

Applicable Sections of Village Code:  Sec. 54-100. - C-2 Community Commercial District.  Sec. 54-68. – Conditional use permit approval  Sec. 54-150 – Approved Structures

I. REQUEST: The applicant is requesting Conditional Use approval to place a mobile vending stand in conjunction with Whitt’s Branding Iron restaurant to attract customers to their business during this pandemic hardship located at 384 Sudderth Drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico.

II. NOTIFICATION AREA MAP

Case Report – #CU-2020-1018 Page 1 | 7

III. SITE DATA

Direction Zoning Existing Land Use North R-1 Horton Complex Tract East C-2 Mechanic Shop South C-2 Ferguson / Flower Shop West C-2 Bank

IV. AREA ZONING MAP

Case Report – #CU-2020-1018 Page 2 | 7

V. Current Structure Street View

Aerial View from Google Maps

Street View

Case Report – #CU-2020-1018 Page 3 | 7

Current Photo

VI. ANALYSIS Sec. 54-100. – C-2 Community commercial district.

(a) Purpose. The purpose of the C-2 community commercial district is to provide for low-intensity retail or service outlets which deal directly with the consumer for whom the goods or services are intended. The uses allowed in this district are to provide goods and services on a community market scale and should be located in areas which are served by arterial street facilities. (1) Merchandise which is offered for sale may be displayed beyond the confines of a building in any C-2 district, but the area occupied by such outdoor display shall not constitute a greater number of square feet than ten percent of the ground floor area of the building housing the principal use, unless such merchandise is a type customarily displayed outdoors such as automobiles and garden supplies. (2) All materials, supplies, merchandise, or other similar matter not on display for direct sale, rental or lease to the ultimate consumer or user shall be stored within the confines of a 100 percent opaque wall or fence not less than six feet tall. No storage of any type shall be permitted within the one-half of the required front or side street setback nearest the street, or within any required interior side or rear setback (b) Principal permitted uses. Principal permitted uses in the C-2 district are as follows, subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of this section (conditional uses):

(14) Restaurants or prepared foods, including alcoholic beverages served in conjunction with food service

(24) Restaurants, bars, and package liquor sales.

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(2)Automobile service stations.

a. Automobile service station site improvements such as buildings or structures (permanent or temporary) shall be separated from any residential district by at least 50 feet. Parking areas shall be separated from any residential district by at least 15 feet.

b. The total site area shall not be less than 12,000 square feet.

c. Pump islands shall be set back not less than 25 feet from any street right-of-way line, not less than 40 feet from any non-street line, and not less than 75 feet from any residential district boundary.

d. Hydraulic hoists, pits and all lubrication, greasing, washing, repair, and diagnostic equipment shall be used and enclosed within a building.

e. Interior curbs of not less than six inches in height shall be constructed to separate driving surfaces from sidewalks, landscaped areas, and street rights-of-way.

f. No automobile service station on a site contiguous to any residential district shall be operated between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. of the following day.

(5) Convenience food restaurants. Convenience food restaurants shall be subject to the same limitations and conditions as automobile service stations as set out in subsections (c)(2)a. through f. of this section.

Sec. 54-68. – Conditional use permit approval.

(a) Generally. Certain uses, (as defined in section 54-91(c)), may, under certain circumstances, be acceptable. When such circumstances exist, a conditional use permit may be granted. The permit may be issued for a specified period of time, with automatic cancellation at the end of that time unless it is renewed, or conditions may be applied to the issuance of the permit and periodic review may be required. The permit shall be granted for a particular use and not for a particular person.

(b) Application. The person applying for a conditional use permit shall fill out and submit to the planning administrator the appropriate form, together with the required fee. The request for a conditional use permit shall follow the procedures and applicable requirements of section 54-67 which pertain to site plan review.

(c) Notice of hearing. Notice of any public meeting at which the conditional use will be reviewed shall be accomplished as set forth in section 54-40.

(d) Review and decision by planning commission.

(1) No conditional use permit shall be given for a use which is not listed in this article as a conditional use in the particular district in which it is proposed to be located. The planning

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commission shall consider the effect of the proposed use upon the health, safety and general welfare of occupants of surrounding lands, existing and anticipated traffic conditions, including parking facilities, on adjacent streets and land, the impact upon the natural environment, and the effect of the proposed use upon the comprehensive plan. The planning commission may grant the application by motion, imposing such conditions and safeguards as it deems necessary, or it may deny the application. In reviewing conditional uses in residential areas, the planning commission shall consider particularly the response of adjoining property owners.

(2) Approval of conditional use permits shall require a two-thirds vote of the members of the planning commission present. If approved, the commission shall be required to make findings supporting its decision. If an application is denied, the denial shall constitute a finding that the applicant has not shown that the conditions required for approval exist. No application for a conditional use permit which has been denied wholly or in part shall be resubmitted for a period of six months from the date of the order of denial, except on grounds of new evidence or proof of change of conditions found to be valid by the planning commission.

The Planning Commission has the following options:

1. Approval of Conditional Use Request, with reasons stated in the motion, granting the requested conditional use.

2. Require modifications to Conditional Use Request, and have it returned for Planning Commission review at the next meeting.

3. Deny the request of Conditional Use Request with reasons and conditions.

Approval of a conditional use requires a 2/3 majority vote of those members of the Planning Commission present. The reasons for either approval or rejection must be stated in the findings of fact and motion.

V. STAFF RECOMMENDATION

The determination of appropriateness for granting or denying a conditional use application rests only with the consistency with applicable statutes, codes, and policies and with the Commission’s analysis of the impacts to the surrounding properties and the community at-large.

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Upon review of the application and existing conditions, staff finds that the proposed request for condition use appears to be consistent with the Village Code and hereby recommends the following conditions.

1. The Mobile Vending Stand is required to receive environmental health approval and/or potential fire code separation from the building. 2. The Mobile Vending Stand submit a Waste Water Plan to properly dispose of the waste water (the plan should be approved by the Village of Ruidoso Water Department or Building Inspector) or installation of a grease trap and the grease trap must be inspected by the Village of Ruidoso Water Department or Building Inspector. 3. The Mobile Vending Stand is required to receive environmental health approval and/or potential fire code separation from the building. 4. The Mobile Vending operations are contingent with the operation of Whitt’s Branding Iron and will not operate on the property if the business registration is not kept current with the restaurant. 5. The applicant shall make no substantial changes in plans without the Planning Commission approval. 6. By accepting approval of this Conditional Use, Applicant agrees to comply in a timely manner with standards and conditions set. Failure to comply may lead to Court enforcement.

Suggested Motion: “Based upon the foregoing findings of fact per §54-68 and § 54-101 of the Village Code, I move to GRANT the requested conditional use approval for Case #CU-2020-1018 with the conditions stated in the case report.”

Prepared & Submitted by:

Samantha J. Mendez Community Development Director

# # # By signing below, the Owner/Applicant agrees to comply with all the conditions adopted by the Planning and Zoning Commission ("the Commission") at its hearing on this application. The Owner/Applicant further agrees that it will make no changes to the plans as presented to the Commission without prior approval from village staff or the Commission. Failure to comply with the application as approved by the Commission may result in Court action or revocation of approval.

______Owner/ Applicant Date

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Planning Commission Convention Center – 111 Sierra Blanca Drive, Ruidoso, New Mexico 88345 Case Report – Variance Request #PV-2021-0025

Subject Property: 233 S. Evergreen Drive Legal Description: Lot 283A Zoning: C-2 Community Commercial District Applicant: Antonio Lara Subdivision: Skyland Addition Hearing Date: February 2, at 2:00 p.m.

Applicable Sections of Village Code:  Sec. 54-100. - C-2 Community Commercial District.  Sec. 54-140. – Setback and height encroachments, limitation, and exceptions.  Sec. 54-66. – Variances.

I. REQUEST: The applicant is requesting approval for variance of 10.7 ft. on the front required 20 ft. setback, and 6.5 ft. encroachment on the required side 15 ft. setback. Applicant intent is to build an additional bedroom and bathroom.

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II. NOTIFICATION AREA MAP

III. SITE DATA

Direction Zoning Existing Land Use North R-1 Single Family Residential District East C-2 Community Commercial District South C-2 Community Commercial District West M-2 Medium-Density Mobile Home District

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IV. AREA ZONING MAP

V. Current Structure Street View

Aerial View from Google Maps

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Street View

VI. ANALYSIS Sec. 54-100. - C-2 Community commercial district. (a) Purpose. The purpose of the C-2 community commercial district is to provide for low-intensity retail or service outlets which deal directly with the consumer for whom the goods or services are intended. The uses allowed in this district are to provide goods and services on a community market scale and should be located in areas which are served by arterial street facilities.

(1) Merchandise which is offered for sale may be displayed beyond the confines of a building in any C-2 district, but the area occupied by such outdoor display shall not constitute a greater number of square feet than ten percent of the ground floor area of the building housing the principal use, unless such merchandise is a type customarily displayed outdoors such as automobiles and garden supplies.

(2) All materials, supplies, merchandise or other similar matter not on display for direct sale, rental or lease to the ultimate consumer or user shall be stored within the confines of a 100 percent opaque wall or fence not less than six feet tall. No storage of any type shall be permitted within the one-half of the required front or side street setback nearest the street, or within any required interior side or rear setback.

(f) Setbacks and height. Setback and height requirements for the C-2 district are as follows:

(1) Minimum setback from property lines. The minimum building setbacks from property lines shall be as follows: a. Building setbacks: 1. Front: 20 feet. Case Report – #PV-2021-0025 Page 4 | 7

2. Interior side and rear: 10 feet. 3. Corner side: 15 feet. Street side(s) 4. Residential district boundary: Same as the adjoining residential district. b. Parking lots: 1. Front: 4 feet. 2. Interior side and rear: 3 feet. 3. Corner side: 4 feet. 4. Residential district boundary: 3 feet. (2) Maximum height. Maximum height of structures shall be 35 feet. (g) Lot width and lot area. (1) The minimum lot width shall be 100 feet, except that corner lots shall have a minimum width of 150 feet. (2) Minimum lot area shall be determined by building area, parking requirements and required setbacks.

Sec. 54-66. Variances

(a) Generally. The planning commission may vary or adjust the strict application of the requirements of this article in the case of an irregular, narrow, shallow or steep lot or other physical condition applying to a lot or building where strict application of this article would result in practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship that would deprive the owner of reasonable use of the property involved.

Granting of variances shall be done in accord with the requirements and procedures established in this article. Variances may only be granted for hardships related to the physical characteristics of land and should normally be limited to regulations pertaining to height or width of structures or the size of yard and open spaces where a departure from the literal interpretation of this article will not be contrary to the public interest or establish a precedent that would undermine the purpose and intent of this article as described in section 54-32. Use variances shall not be permitted. No variance or adjustment in the strict application of any provisions of an ordinance may be granted unless: (1) Special circumstances or conditions, fully described in the planning commission's findings, are peculiar to the land or building for which the adjustment is sought and do not apply generally to land or buildings in the neighborhood and have not resulted from any act of the applicant subsequent to the adoption of this article. Nonconforming lot size shall be considered a special circumstance in accordance with subsection 54-143(j); (2) For reasons fully set forth in the planning commission's findings, the circumstances or conditions are such that the strict application of the provisions of this article would deprive the applicant of the reasonable use of the land or building, the granting of the variance is necessary for the reasonable use thereof and the variance as granted is the minimum adjustment that will accomplish this purpose; and (3) The granting of the variance is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this article and will not be harmful to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.

Sec. 54-66 (d) Review and decision by planning commission.

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In considering applications for variance, the planning commission shall consider the effect of the proposed variance upon the health, safety and welfare of the community, traffic conditions, light and air, danger of fire, risk to the public safety, and the safety and the effect on values of property in the surrounding area. The planning commission shall hear oral or written statements from the applicant, the public, village staff or its own members. If the planning commission determines by motion that the special conditions applying to the structure or land in question are peculiar to such property or the immediately surrounding area and do not apply generally to other land or structures in the district in which the land is located, that granting the proposed variance will not in any way impair health, safety or welfare or in any other respect be contrary to the intent of this article and the village comprehensive plan, and that the granting of such variance will not merely serve as a convenience to the applicant, but is necessary to alleviate demonstrable hardship or difficulty, the planning commission may grant such variance and impose conditions and safeguards therein.

A variance shall not be approved except upon the affirmative vote of two-thirds of all the members of the planning commission present. The planning commission shall be required to make findings supporting its decision based on subsections (a) through (d) of this section.

The Planning Commission has the following options:

1. Approval of the Variances request, with reasons stated in the motion, granting the requested use.

2. Require modifications to the Variance request, and have it returned for Planning Commission review at the next meeting.

3. Deny the request of Variance Request with reasons and conditions.

V. STAFF RECOMMENDATION

The determination of appropriateness for granting or denying a conditional use application rests only with the consistency with applicable statutes, codes and policies and with the Commission’s analysis of the impacts to the surrounding properties and the community at-large. Upon review of the application and existing conditions, staff finds that the proposed request for condition use appears to be consistent with the Village Code and hereby recommends the following conditions.

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1. Applicant must complete and return necessary Variance Agreement prior to any construction including an improvement survey that notates the variance that was approved on the face of the plat. Failure to complete and record variance agreement within six (6) months from approval will void the approval of Case #PV 2021-0025. Plat must be record in the office of the Lincoln County Clerk. 2. Applicant must obtain necessary permits to begin construction with in six (6) months of Planning Commission approval and construction must comply with the Village Code and applicable state standards and be completed within one (1) year of the issuance of the building permit. 3. Granting of the variance relief does not confer any authorization for additional variances nor the improvement upon the portion of the dwelling granted relief to encroach within this application. All additional improvements within encroachments would require future variance relief from the Planning Commission. 4. Applicant shall make no substantial changes in plans without Planning Commission approval. 5. By accepting approval of this Variance Agreement, Applicant agrees to comply in a timely manner with standards and conditions set. Failure to comply may lead to Court enforcement.

Suggested Motion: “Based upon the foregoing findings of fact per §54-68 and § 54-101 of the Village Code, I move to GRANT the requested conditional use approval for Case #CU-2021-0025 with the conditions stated in the case report.”

Prepared & Submitted by:

Samantha J. Mendez Community Development Director

______Owner/ Applicant Date

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CONTENTS Market Opportunities and Challenges ...... 21 Organizational and Financial Capacity ...... 23 CONTENTS ...... i Corridor Vision & Goals ...... 25 Introduction ...... 1 Plan Vision ...... 25 Boundary of the Study Area ...... 2 Plan Goals ...... 25 Planning Framework ...... 1

Projects in Process ...... 3 Design Guidelines ...... 26 Defining Characteristics ...... 26 Planning Process ...... 4 Building Design Guidance ...... 26 Schedule ...... 4 Community Space ...... 27 Advisory Committee ...... 5 Access and Mobility ...... 27 Public Engagement ...... 5 Strategies ...... 28 Community Profile ...... 6 Access and Mobility ...... 28 History ...... 6 Character and Design ...... 29 Community Assets ...... 7 Economic Vitality ...... 30 Physical Characteristics ...... 8

Transportation ...... 9 Action Plan ...... 32 Land Use and Zoning ...... 13 Access and Mobility ...... 33 Challenges ...... 14 Placemaking/Community Space ...... 35 Character and Design ...... 40 Market Analysis ...... 18 Economic Vitality ...... 43 Socioeconomic Characteristics ...... 18

Appendices ...... 46 MRA Designation Report ...... 46 Public Meeting Notes ...... 46 Funding Sources ...... 51

FIGURES Figure 1. MRA Boundary Map ...... 2 Figure 2. Circulation Map - West ...... 11 Figure 3. Circulation Map - East ...... 12 Figure 4. Zoning Map - West ...... 13 Figure 5. Zoning Map - East ...... 14 Figure 6. Conditions Map - West ...... 15 Figure 7. Conditions Map - East ...... 15 Figure 8. Vacant/For Sale Map - West ...... 16 Figure 9. Vacant/For Sale Map - East ...... 16 Figure 10. Lodgers Tax Revenues, 2014 to 2018 ...... 20

Introduction The Village of Ruidoso and the Ruidoso Midtown District have stagnant areas of the corridor as an MRA. This designation will embarked on an assessment of the commercial corridor along enable the Village to acquire property, invest in business Sudderth Drive, which includes Ruidoso’s MainStreet area and the improvements and provide incentives to stimulate productive use of gateway areas on either side leading into the MainStreet district. the properties in these areas. Designation of an MRA enables the The goal of this report is to assess the area for designation of a use of tax increment financing and metropolitan redevelopment Metropolitan Redevelopment Area (MRA). If so designated, a MRA bonds to finance public improvements in the MRA. plan will be completed for the designated district. The purpose of The New Mexico Metropolitan Redevelopment Code (§3-60A-1 to 3- the Metropolitan Redevelopment Plan (MRA Plan) is to promote 60A-48 NMSA 1978) provides municipalities in New Mexico with the economic development in the Midtown district and the adjacent powers to correct conditions in areas or neighborhoods commercial districts that are the gateways into Midtown. The plan which “substantially impair or arrest the sound and orderly will provide opportunities for rehabilitation or redevelopment of development” within the city. These powers can help reverse an designated areas by private enterprise. Commercial areas that are area’s decline and stagnation; however, the municipality may only underperforming can benefit from the public investments that are use these powers within designated Metropolitan Redevelopment enabled by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Code. Areas (MRAs). The plan for this area began with an assessment of the area, to assess the potential to designate deteriorating and economically

Boundary of the Study Area

Figure 1. MRA Boundary Map

The boundary of the study area includes properties on both sides of Drive and US 70 on the east. The study area, the Midtown District Main Rd. and Sudderth Drive and extends from the traffic circle at and the MRA boundary are shown in Figure 1.Error! Reference source Main Rd. and D Street on the west to the Y intersection of Sudderth not found.

− Maximize the existing building stock by taking inventory Planning Framework vacant buildings. Work with building owners to determine if there are barriers to renting space and continue to support VILLAGE OF RUIDOSO COMPREHENSIVE PLAN and invest in the storefront improvement program. The Village adopted its Comprehensive Plan update in 2019, which − Align retail and industrial clusters: outlines the steps to achieve the community’s vision through goals, ▪ Encourage new storefront tasting rooms, manufacturing production, outdoor recreation services in Midtown. policies, and measurable actions. The Comprehensive Plan serves as ▪ Encourage breweries in Midtown. a guide for current and future decision making while identifying ▪ Promote and encourage a farmer’s market that sells needs that support the Village’s capital funding requests within an local produce and goods. Infrastructure Capital Improvements Plan (ICIP). The impetus for the − Introduce year-round customers: Comprehensive Plan update was to create a year-round sustainable ▪ Tailor retail to the year-round residents with consistent community⎯ water, workforce, and housing included. Improving and quality service and product. the Midtown experience with longer restaurant hours and more ▪ Encourage development of office and co-working space events and nightlife was one of the changes that the community in Midtown. identified early in the process. Maintaining and enhancing the ▪ Encourage market-rate apartment development in Village’s small-town feel by continuing efforts to revitalize and Midtown. develop Midtown, encouraging property maintenance, and making • Temporary events and activities, including: it easy to walk and bike around town were identified as one of the − Permit food carts in Midtown. This is low-risk and low-cost plan’s guiding principles. way for startups to enter the market and test new product. It also introduces diversity and vibrancy for customers. The plan recognized that Ruidoso’s Midtown area is a charming − Consider hosting a STEM fair in Midtown focused on element of the community that provides desired amenities and is showcasing CTE machining and construction projects. on trend with its emphasis on placemaking, creating a destination − Sponsor and support a culinary contest for kids that utilizes and a concentration of high- quality retail stores with local products. the school’s commercial kitchen. Showcase competition in In return, focused attention on supporting the existing businesses Midtown. and catering to the local community is important. • Support local retailers and expand the Market. − Cultivate success for existing retailers: Economic Development ▪ Hire a retail coach to help with store layout, window Some of the specific actions the plan recommended in Midtown and display and marketing to improve revenues. Michele the plan area along on Sudderth Drive include: Reeves with Civilis is recommended. As identified in the business survey in Appendix A, marketing is the most • Continue to enhance Midtown. requested support.

▪ Have consultant educate retailers on the importance of than a standard all-way signal. However, the flashing red lights can collaboration regarding hours of operation and event create a hazard for pedestrians who must cross four lanes of traffic. promotion and engagement. ▪ Encourage restaurant management/culinary training for The Midtown area presents an unusual challenge where vehicle peak season. speeds are also higher than desired outside of the tourist seasons ▪ Help create a succession planning program with SBDC to and traffic calming techniques, though not yet widely accepted guide current owners into successful sales of publicly, have been introduced to address the issue. Techniques businesses. that have been applied include speed bumps and radar signs to alert − Make it easy for new retailers to enter market by drivers of their speeds. developing a How-to-Do Business Program/Guide for business owners that want to open a business in Ruidoso In the Midtown area, where pedestrian activity is heaviest, and developing a “match-making” database of retail sidewalks are narrow in places and become crowded during the businesses that have gone through succession planning as tourist seasons. Village officials and residents also indicate high an investment opportunity to “homecomers” as a levels of jaywalking. The frequency of crossing locations may need recruitment tool. to be examined more closely to allow for crossing options at regular intervals, including between signalized intersections. Along Circulation secondary roads, the lack of pedestrian options leads to people The Comprehensive Plan also acknowledged the challenges along walking along the streets.” Sudderth Drive during peak tourist traffic. As such, the plan recommended the following goals: “Ruidoso is subject to high degrees of seasonal traffic congestion in the Midtown area (and throughout the Village), most notably during • Make it easy to walk and bike in the Village and access Midtown the summer and winter weekends and during the horse racing without a vehicle. season at Ruidoso Downs. Many Ruidoso residents report avoiding − Conduct a bikeway route study. the Midtown area altogether during these periods, and Village − Incorporate pedestrian pathways and sidewalks into Village officials have observed queues of up to a half-mile to the west of of Ruidoso’s roadway design standards. the traffic light at Center Street and Sudderth Drive. Traffic signals − Evaluate additional pedestrian crossings along Sudderth along Sudderth Drive are owned and maintained by New Mexico Drive through Midtown. Department of Transportation (NMDOT), but the Village has a − Develop a Wayfinding Plan to make Ruidoso’s residents and strong working relationship with the District 2 office and both visitors aware of trail connections, destinations, and distances. jurisdictions have been able to respond to traffic demands through flexible and innovative signal timing practices. For example, staff has observed that converting the traffic signal at Center Street to a four-way flashing red is more effective in the peak tourist season

Parking Projects in Process The Comprehensive Plan addressed parking specifically in the The Village is working to improve transportation in the Village, Midtown area: including improving traffic conditions in the study area. Two major “Parking in the Midtown area is a recurring challenge during the projects include a roundabout at the Sudderth Drive/US 70/Gavilan peak seasons. Moreover, studies have shown that a significant Canyon Road intersection and traffic calming. share of traffic congestion in urbanized areas is attributable to motorists searching for parking spaces. In addition to on-street US 70/NM 48 ROUNDABOUT FEASIBILITY STUDY parking, the Village has attempted to address the problem by The Village is conducting a feasibility study to determine whether a adding a series of public parking lots along side streets and adjacent traffic circle would be appropriate at the intersection of Sudderth to Sudderth Drive. The lots are well marked and offer a substantial and US 70, with the goal to better handle heavy traffic during number of spaces and support a “park once and walk” philosophy in seasons when the Village sees a high volume of visitors. which residents and visitors can access multiple destinations RUIDOSO ROAD DESIGN GUIDE AND TRAFFIC without returning to their vehicles. Encouraging visitors— and recreational vehicles in particular—to utilize designated parking lots CALMING GUIDE is an especially high priority.” The Village developed two design guides to improve the design of new roadways that are maintained by the Village. The intent is to The plan recommended improving parking management in the improve opportunities for active transportation while providing new following ways: roads and roadway improvements that are appropriate to the Village of Ruidoso. The guides recognize that national standards are • Create maps displaying public parking lot locations. An not always appropriate for small towns and rural areas. electronic version of map could be included in a visitor app, that identifies public parking sites, number of available spaces, and special vehicle accommodations, such as recreational vehicles.

• Consider implementation of paid parking in town at busy areas (such as Midtown). • Evaluate the impact of a possible parking garage in Midtown on Rio Ruidoso.

Planning Process

Schedule The committee reviewed the proposed plan boundary and The MRA Planning process began in June 2020 with an Advisory preliminary project ideas. The project area and ideas were refined Committee meeting and was followed by analysis of the property and presented to the community in December. The draft MRA Plan conditions along Sudderth Drive in the plan area and subsequent was prepared and presented to Village Council for discussion in background research. In late summer, a draft designation report January. The public and council’s considerations were integrated was submitted to the Village for internal review; it was revised and into the final plan and then presented to Village Council for presented to the Advisory Committee in November. adoption in February.

Advisory Committee

The Advisory Committee was comprised of Sudderth Drive business owners and leadership of the Midtown Association, and represented local restaurants, bars, banks, and retailers. The committee met twice (via Zoom due to safety requirements) to provide direction and insight on the plan boundary, confirm the conditions, and brainstorm and refine project ideas for incorporation into the MRA Plan.

Public Engagement A community meeting was held in December to present the designation area, conditions along Sudderth Drive, and project ideas. Property owners within the project area were contacted directly. The input from this meeting informed the Draft MRA Plan.

The community was invited to participate in the Village Council hearings in January and February to share their ideas prior to the plan’s adoption.

Community Profile

History Ruidoso’s heritage contributes to the distinctive identity and character today. Ruidoso was first established in 1869 by Captain Paul Dowlin, when he constructed a mill along Rio Ruidoso, which means noisy river in Spanish. The town was then named Dowlin’s Mill. In 1885, Dowlin’s Mill was renamed Ruidoso after the river. Ruidoso was incorporated as a Village in 1946.

Initially the economy was based on mining and ranching, however tourism has long been an integral part of Ruidoso’s economy. In the 1930s, when the automobile became more widely available, horse racing, skiing, and other recreational opportunities attracted visitors from throughout the region. In the 1940s and 1950s, Ruidoso’s draw increased from regional neighbors to visitors from around the country to enjoy its mountainous environment. Upper Canyon was one of the first tourist-oriented areas to develop with small cabins and remains a historic destination for current visitors.

Ski Apache, previously name “Sierra Blanca Ski Resort,” opened during Christmas 1961 and as one of the few ski resorts in southern New Mexico, it has boosted the local economy as a popular tourist destination. Since 1963, the resort has been owned and operated by Source: VisitRuidoso.com the Mescalero Apache Tribe. In the 1970s, the Village experienced The historic Dowlin’s Mill an influx of retirement homes, second homes, and resort-type cabins. This trend continues today, as the local economy is principally based on tourism supported by short-term rentals, outdoor recreation, recreation- and tourism-based businesses.

Community Assets Ruidoso’s outdoor recreation assets are consistent with the top reasons people visit New Mexico and outdoor experiences are the LOCATION AND SETTING top reason for overnight visits. This focus on outdoor recreation Ruidoso is located in Lincoln National Forest at the foot of Sierra aligns with current trends in that travel has become more Blanca. It is 180 miles southeast of Albuquerque and 135 miles ‘experiential’ at all income levels. The interest in outdoor northeast of El Paso and the US-Mexican border. Visitors from New experiences is outpacing other traditional tourist attractions, such Mexico, Texas, Mexico, and beyond are drawn to Ruidoso’s as casinos or golf; although, Ruidoso has those amenities in and picturesque setting, cool summers, and skiing in the winter months. near town, as well, plus a racetrack. The Village’s tagline is “Living in nature’s playground,” because its mountainous location makes it an attractive destination for families, retirees, nature lovers, and active adventure seekers year-round. Sudderth Drive is Ruidoso’s primary shopping and dining district for visitors, anchored near the center of the corridor by the Midtown MainStreet District. At its western end is the intersection with Mechem Drive (NM 48) and at the eastern end, the corridor joins US 70 with more highway-oriented businesses.

OUTDOOR RECREATION Ruidoso is surrounded by nature. The mountains, forests, and waterways are main attractions for tourists and residents; they make Ruidoso special. Ruidoso is a destination because of this incredible setting nestled amid national forests with immediate access to a wide range of outdoor recreation, including skiing, hunting, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and ATVs. According to the Source: VisitRuidoso.com New Mexico’s Department of Game and Fish, Lincoln County hosted Mountain bike racing is a popular draw to Ruidoso. 2,829 non-resident anglers and 1,807 non-resident hunters in 2013, which equates to $8,872,425 annual spending in the county. The REGIONAL ATTRACTIONS area’s outdoor assets are important to celebrate and enhance as Ruidoso is also within 70 miles from the White Sands National Park, part of the community culture and a primary attraction for 45 miles from the Valley of Fires Recreation Area, and historic Fort overnight stays. Stanton.

ARTS AND CULTURE Ruidoso is home to many galleries with a range of styles to meet diverse tastes of the Village’s visitors and residents. There are ten galleries within the MRA plan area. Sacred Grounds Coffee and Tea House serves as the community’s local cultural and performing arts event center in the heart of the Village on Sudderth Drive. The Spencer Theater for the Performing Arts is located just north of the Village and attracts audiences from the region.

Physical Characteristics

HISTORIC ASSETS The Village’s Comprehensive Plan includes a policy to enact a historic preservation ordinance and intends to conduct a historic resource survey to identify significant buildings and sites, and then Source: VisitRuidoso.com develop a map and brochure that shares Ruidoso’s historic assets. Historic Sudderth Drive in Ruidoso There are several original structures along the corridor that date back to Ruidoso’s early history as a tourist destination. These 2. The Old Dowlin Mill, 641 Sudderth Drive. Ruidoso’s oldest include notable buildings in the Midtown area that set the distinct building, the Dowlin Mill, was built in 1869 by Paul Dowlin. Dowlin character that still attract visitors to Ruidoso. Over time, these Mill served as a grain mill, general store and post office in Ruidoso’s buildings have been updated and renovated to accommodate early days. In 1950 it was restored and used as a gift shop and later modern retail concepts, while keeping Ruidoso’s western mountain an art gallery. A fire in 2017 destroyed the building, which is town ambiance. currently undergoing restoration. 1. The Charlie Wingfield House, 2813 Sudderth Drive. Charles and 3. Covered Wagon Curio Shop Building, 2524 Sudderth Drive. From Mary Wingfield arrived in Ruidoso in 1884. The Village currently the 1930s until recently, Covered Wagon Curio called this building owns this property. The Village’s KRUI radio station will operate home. Though many architectural changes have been made over out of the back of the property. This property provides an the years, the building maintains its distinctive roofline and a wagon opportunity for activity at the west end of the corridor. wheel on the front façade.

4. Brunell’s, 2316 Sudderth Drive. This building has housed this family-owned business since 1936 and has had many changes.

5. Michelle’s Ruidoso (Boho Chic Modern Southwest Apparel on Sudderth Drive. This is a good thing for business activity and the store), 2325 Sudderth Drive, and Mountain Arts Gallery, 2530 economy; but it presents a problem for pedestrians trying to cross Sudderth Drive, are located in former gas stations. While these Sudderth Drive in between the traffic signals, especially with the buildings have some resemblance to their original form, they have extreme congestion during events and high tourist periods, as transformed into attractive retail storefronts that contribute to the described in the Challenges section (see Figures 2 & 3: Circulation character of the Midtown shopping district. Maps).

6. The Back Door Antiques Building, 2808 Sudderth Drive. The Sudderth Drive is the east-west spine of the corridor, with Village’s first electric company had its office in this large building concentrations of local and visitor serving businesses. NM 48 is that was Back Door Antiques. The building is for sale and offers a owned and maintained by NMDOT, which owns and maintains the prime opportunity for a new business on the corridor. traffic signals along Sudderth Drive, and works closely with the Village to respond to traffic demands through signal timing 8. Dreamcatcher Café Building, 2629 Sudderth Drive. The practices. Traffic management practices must balance the need to Dreamcatcher Café building occupies a former motel building that move vehicles through the area with pedestrian safety. was constructed in the 1940s. This building is also for sale. It’s rustic wood trim and outdoor patio lend a distinct character to the The roadway is four lanes, with a center turn lane from Park Avenue Midtown area. to Wingfield Street.

QUAINT CHARACTER PARKING Midtown’s historic buildings line Sudderth Drive, creating a On-street parking is provided in some locations, with parking bays charming area with desired amenities such as restaurants, bars, alternating with wide sidewalks and landscaping. galleries, shops, and services. The scale of these street-facing Off-street parking is available in individual store parking lots, and buildings and their window displays, porches, and outdoor seating the Village has provided public parking lots on side streets and along areas give the area a distinct character and make Midtown an ideal Sudderth Drive. Parking is a challenge in the Midtown area during place to stroll and shop. peak seasons, and drivers searching for parking likely contribute to Transportation traffic congestion in this area, based on studies in other communities. The Village promotes a “park once and walk” philosophy through strategically placed and well-marked public ROADS AND TRAFFIC parking and pedestrian connections to lots on side streets. Because Sudderth Drive is a state-owned highway (NM 48), is the known connection from US 70 through town and up to Ski Apache and because the Village’s mountainous terrain limits the number of connectors and arterials, much of the Village traffic is concentrated

CONNECTIVITY AND WALKABILITY Drive that offer shoppers places to relax, have a bite to eat, or take The condition of sidewalks varies in width and condition along the a break. corridor. The density of buildings and their proximity to the There is also a new connection from Midtown to the river being sidewalk in the Midtown District, make the district more pleasant to planned, which will include seating areas (see Figure 2). walk than any other shopping area in the Village. The shops and restaurants generally open on to the sidewalk so pedestrians can easily access them without navigating cars in driveways and parking lots.

The Village has built pedestrian walkways that connect to additional parking behind the Sudderth Drive frontage. The Midtown area has sidewalks on both sides of the street, although they are narrow sidewalks in some areas and cause pedestrian congestion during peak seasons.

East of Midtown there are areas without sidewalks and in many locations throughout the plan area, the sidewalks are deteriorated and are not conducive to foot traffic.

TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVES When visitors arrive without a personal vehicle, such as arrivals at the Sierra Blanca Regional Airport or Ruidoso Bus Station, there are some local transportation alternatives. These include shuttle service from the airport, rideshare, limousine service, and car rentals.

PARKS AND COMMUNITY SPACES The Village holds the Annual Brewdoso Craft Beer and Wine Festival at Wingfield Park in the Midtown District, just south of Sudderth Drive. This 8-acre park serves as Midtown’s central gathering place and hosts numerous events year-round.

In addition to Wingfield Park, there are several plazas and courtyards integrated into the shopping centers along Sudderth

Figure 2. Circulation Map - West

Figure 3. Circulation Map - East Figure 3. Circulation Map - East

Figure 3. Circulation Map - East

Land Use and Zoning C-3 Within the Midtown District, the properties are zoned C-3, which is LAND USES the same as C-2 but allows a single residential apartment in a The Midtown District features a concentration of tourist-oriented commercial structure. retail, lodging and dining. Extending out from the Midtown District to the east and west, businesses are more diversified to include local retail and services such as real estate, banking, and general Figure 4. Zoning Map - West retail, although lodging, specialty retail and restaurants are Figure 4. Zoning Map - West scattered throughout the corridor.

ZONING

The project area is almost entirely zoned commercial with a handful Figure 4. Zoning Map - West of properties designated as Planned Unit Developments (PUD) (see Figures 4 & 5).

PUD PUD allows a mix of housing and local commercial as permitted in the R and C-1 districts

C-1 East of Paradise Canyon Drive, properties are zoned C-1, which is meant to be neighborhood-serving and allows a mix of commercial uses including stores, salons, galleries, offices, restaurants, and lodging. Business types in and near the Midtown District include restaurants, specialty retail, lodging, and visitor services.

C-2 Aside from the Midtown Figure 5. Zoning Map - East District, most properties along Sudderth Drive are zoned C-2, which is the same as C-1, but also allows banks, clubs, entertainment, medical facilities, and schools. It currently does not permit housing. Figure 5. Zoning Map - East

Figure 5. Zoning Map - East corridor. These include the Wingfield House, Wingfield Park, the Mashburn property northwest of the park, existing Village buildings east of the park, and the Horton Complex.

Challenges

BUILDING AND SITE CONDITIONS

Deteriorated Buildings and Site Conditions Signs of distress and indicators of lower than desired levels of commercial activity occur in pockets throughout the corridor, include vacant buildings and businesses that have closed. Deteriorated site conditions include poorly maintained parking lots and landscaping.

Many of the owners of these properties do not live in Ruidoso, which makes it difficult to encourage the property maintenance and upgrades to these properties. Deteriorated buildings and sites that are not maintained have the potential to affect the quality of the visitor experience along the corridor. LAND OWNERSHIP The study area encompasses approximately 262 acres, excluding Deterioration of sidewalks within the public right-of-way is a public rights of way, and 477 parcels. There are 344 separate challenge on Sudderth Drive and side streets. Maintenance and owners of these parcels, and 90 of these owners live out of New repairs for sidewalks along Sudderth Drive is the responsibility of Mexico. Only 215 of the landowners are local to Lincoln County. NMDOT, and the Village is responsible for sidewalks along local Parcels range in size from tiny parcels of 0.02 acres to properties of streets. The MRA has the potential to help fund repairs through a up to 20 acres. The diversity of ownership creates a challenge for tax increment financing district and coordination with NMDOT. maintaining properties and managing the activities that make the Property conditions are noted in Figures 6 & 7 below. study area successful. The Village owns some Figure 6. Conditions Map - West significant properties that provide important existing and potential amenities that can help focus activity at key locations along the

Figure 6. Conditions Map - West 14

Figure 6. Conditions Map - West Figure 7. Conditions Map - East

Vacant Properties and Closed Businesses There is also vacant land, some of which is vacant because dilapidated buildings have been demolished. A number of properties are for sale or rent, and properties tend to stay on the market for months or years. Characteristics that indicate a lower than expected levels of commercial activity include:

• Property for sale or rent, especially considering the length of time on the market • Vacant buildings and closed businesses Of the 269 properties with addresses are in the study area. • 36 properties are for sale or rent, including 12 that are currently occupied, 19 that are vacant, or the business has closed and four vacant parcels.

Figure 8. Vacant/For Sale Map - West Figure 9. Vacant/For Sale Map - East

• In addition to the properties that are for sale or rent, there are New Construction ten additional properties that are vacant buildings or closed The Comprehensive Plan identified new construction in the area businesses. since 2006, a fifteen-year period. A closer look at the new The locations of properties for sale and for rent are shown in construction shows that a total of 11 permits were issued for Figures 8 & 9. These properties are located throughout the corridor. properties on Sudderth Drive during this time. Three of those were There is no specific concentration of properties for sale or rent. additions to existing properties, the Wingfield House, Budget Lodge and Cottage Central Cabins. Two of these properties are currently for sale, and the Wingfield House was purchased by the Village. Of the eight additional permits, two of Ruidoso’s newer buildings are currently vacant but not for sale.

CONNECTIVITY AND WALKABILITY the racing season at Ruidoso Downs. The congestion in the Midtown There are limited crossings of Sudderth Drive and given its status as area is a challenge for both residents and visitors. a state highway, making pedestrian improvements can be The Village works closely with NMDOT District 2 to manage traffic challenging. In some stretches of the study area, a pedestrian must through the Midtown area. The Village is exploring traffic calming walk x miles to reach a crosswalk that allows safe crossing. This is techniques to promote pedestrian safety along Sudderth Drive in unreasonable to expect of pedestrians so many jaywalk. Given Midtown. traffic speeds and the blind curves of the street, this creates an unsafe environment. Other proposed improvements include a roundabout to better manage traffic at the Sudderth Drive/US 70/Gavilan Canyon Road In addition, many properties especially those outside the Midtown intersection. District have dilapidated and deteriorated sidewalks and poor or no pedestrian amenities, such as landscaping between parking areas FRAGMENTED OWNERSHIP and the sidewalk and designated areas for pedestrians within The large number of property owners, especially those who are parking lots and driveways. from out of state, presents a challenge for coordinating strategies for upgrading the appearance of the corridor. TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC According to the Comprehensive Plan, Ruidoso has high degrees of seasonal traffic during the summer and winter weekends and during

Market Analysis likely to attract young people. The growing Hispanic population Socioeconomic Characteristics counterbalances the aging demographic. • Immigrant Residents. Nearly 10 percent of Ruidoso's residents DEMOGRAPHICS are foreign-born, another indicator of a vibrant and diverse population. Population Demographics Ruidoso has a year-round, full-time population of 7,800, with a Income seasonal population that increases to 30,000 people on peak Retail and service jobs are a significant component of the local weekends. economy. Many of these jobs have low wages. As a result, median household income of $50,115 is below the US average but eight • Population Change. Ruidoso has experienced a slight decline in percent above state median income. Median income has increased the year-round population (3 percent) since 2013. since 2013. • Older Population. Ruidoso’s median age is 52.4. The US average median age is 37.8. The older population reflects Ruidoso’s Educational Attainment appeal as a retirement destination as well as residents aging in Thirty-four percent of adult residents have associate degrees and place. thirty percent have bachelor’s degrees or higher. The well-educated • Millennial Talent. As communities outline their future economic workforce has contributed to entrepreneurial activity in the region. Ruidoso Public Schools and Eastern New Mexico University-Ruidoso development priories, millennial talent is a coveted resource; are local resources that contribute to the educated workforce. they are the future workforce and source of economic vitality and innovation. Millennials make up 17 percent of the Village’s LOCAL ECONOMY residents. In a positive direction for the Village, Ruidoso’s Ruidoso’s is a well-established tourist destination. While most millennial population is up 14.7 percent since 2013. Young businesses provide goods and services to visitors, new businesses entrepreneurs have been driving economic growth by opening have expanded from lodging, retail, and services to developing and new businesses in the study area and developing new products producing products that are sold throughout the west and that are sold locally and regionally. southwest. • Racial and Ethnic Makeup. More than nine in ten Ruidoso residents identify as white, while the Village’s Hispanic The Village’s Comprehensive Plan, completed in 2019, emphasized population is fast-growing – up 14 percent since 2013. This is a the economic health of the Village. The success of businesses along positive aspect because communities that are diverse are more Sudderth Drive is an important asset to the Village economy. The

Comprehensive Plan has the following observations about the Table 1. Gross Receipts by Industry, FY2019 economic trends in the Village and region and suggests things that New Mexico Ruidoso the Village can do to diversify and enhance economic activity. Industry Classification Total Gross % of Total Gross % of Receipts Total Receipts Total Business Activity 11: Agriculture, Forestry, $460,235,953 0.3% $1,143,530 0.3% Fishing and Hunting Retail trade is the largest category of businesses by type, with 22 21: Mining $8,529,158,789 6.4% $4,119 0.0% percent of all business establishments, followed by accommodation 22: Utilities $4,328,207,778 3.2% $15,911,702 3.7% and food service with 15 percent of business establishments. Other 23: Construction $12,203,131,237 9.1% $71,595,498 16.7% business types related to the tourism industry include construction, real estate and rental leasing, and arts, entertainment, and 31-33: Manufacturing $8,634,103,158 6.5% $13,279,468 3.1% recreation. Together, these related categories account for 19 42: Wholesale Trade $19,262,743,511 14.4% $34,989,056 8.2% percent of all business establishments. In total, 56 percent of 44-45: Retail Trade $28,955,737,742 21.7% $121,535,050 28.4% business establishments are related to the tourism industry, 48-49: Transportation and $2,992,534,941 2.2% $4,213,009 1.0% Warehousing According to the comprehensive plan, tourism spending in Lincoln 51: Information $2,920,016,788 2.2% $17,047,512 4.0% County was more than $200 million in 2016, with much of the 52: Finance and Insurance $590,090,340 0.4% $4,480,507 1.0% spending on second homes. An additional $61.9 million was spent 53: Real Estate Rental and $2,911,024,012 2.2% $25,805,863 6.0% on lodging, food and beverage related. Retail, with $18.3 million in Leasing spending, accounted for 9 percent of the total, and recreation, with 54: Professional, Scientific, $11,942,847,379 8.9% $14,533,986 3.4% and Technical Services $27.7 million in spending accounted for 14 percent of the total. 55: Management of $268,105,331 0.2% $69,246 0.0% Tourism represents 25 percent of employment in the County and Companies and Enterprises 17.4 percent of labor income. A significant portion of this business 56: Administrative & Support / $4,032,215,132 3.0% $3,071,119 0.7% activity is conducted in the MRA study area. Waste Management & Remediation Services 61: Educational Services $330,584,632 0.2% $1,591,716 0.4% Gross Receipts 62: Health Care and Social $7,206,664,862 5.4% $14,005,611 3.3% The volume of business activity in Ruidoso can be estimated from Assistance gross receipts reported to the state. Total gross receipts for Ruidoso 71: Arts, Entertainment, and $543,819,475 0.4% $5,264,622 1.2% businesses in fiscal year 2019 were $427 million. The top industry Recreation classifications for gross receipts were Retail Trade (28%), 72: Accommodation and Food $5,207,014,451 3.9% $55,039,453 12.9% Services Construction (17%) and Accommodation and Food Services (13%). 81: Other Services (except $10,222,185,243 7.7% $19,001,897 4.4% Industries where Ruidoso stands out in comparison to the state Public Administration) average are Construction, Retail Trade, Information, Real Estate, 92: Public Administration $1,037,802,562 0.8% $0 0.0% Arts and Entertainment and Accommodation and Food Service. 99: Unclassified $911,162,301 0.7% $5,305,600 1.2% Grand Total $133,489,385,618 100.0% $427,890,679 100.0%

Lodgers Tax is an example of value-added agriculture, and local products have The Village of Ruidoso and the City of Ruidoso Downs collect been a highly successful contribution to the corridor’s retail mix. lodgers’ tax of five percent on all lodging. The Village began collecting lodgers tax on short term rentals in 2019. Changes in the REGIONAL ATTRACTIONS AND TOURISM tax collected reflect changes hotel stays from year to year. Lodgers Ruidoso is a destination tourist town, but it is surrounded by tax revenues in the two communities rose steadily over 30 percent regional attractions that contribute to its popularity with visitors. in the five years from 2014 through 2018. In the Village, lodgers tax Visitors to Ruidoso and regional attractions are a major source of revenues increased by a third to $1.6 million, indicating an increase local economic activity. in the number of overnight visitors during that time. Lincoln National Forest Figure 10. Lodgers Tax Revenues, 2014 to 2018 The Lincoln National Forest is composed of three ranger districts that cover over one million square miles in Chaves, Eddy, Otero, and $2,000 Lincoln Counties. Ruidoso is located within the area of the Sacramento Ranger District. $1,500 According to 2014 national visitor use monitoring results, the $1,000 Lincoln National Forest has an estimated 767,000 visitors annually, which is a ten percent increase over a survey conducted in 2009.

$ Thousands $ $500 Visitation to the Lincoln National Forest has exceeded population growth in the counties where it is located. $0 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 One-quarter of visitors are “local”, traveling 25 miles or less. 35

Ruidoso Ruidoso Downs percent are “nearby neighbors” who travel a distance of 26 to 200 miles. Over 40 percent of visitors are “destination visitors” who travel more than 200 miles. Visitors are all ages, ranging from families with children to young adults to retirees. STATE AND REGIONAL INDUSTRY TARGETS Ruidoso’s strengths in outdoor recreation align with regional and Most people visit the forest for general use, with the most popular state industry targets, enabling local businesses to benefit from activities being viewing natural features, hiking and walking, initiatives aimed at this business sector. Outdoor recreation related downhill skiing, and driving for pleasure. manufacturing also holds promise, and there are some related businesses on the Sudderth corridor already. The local wine industry Ski Apache Ski Apache, the second largest ski area in New Mexico, is known for its warm weather powder skiing. Located less than 20 miles from

Midtown, the resort offers year-round activities on the slopes. With The alignment of Ruidoso’s strengths with key state initiatives its 750 skiable acres and lift capacity, Ski Apache can handle 5,600 provides several key opportunities. The intent of the MRA Plan is to guests per hour. During warm weather months, a zip line, scenic provide the Village with additional tools to address ongoing gondola rides, hiking and mountain biking trails replace winter challenges. sports. Several businesses along the Sudderth Corridor More than a third of comments received during the comprehensive Ruidoso planning process related to economic development challenges. Within the Village are a variety of attractions that serve both Leveraging the Village’s assets to overcome these challenges is one residents and visitors. In addition to the eclectic entertainment, of the goals of the MRA designation and plan. shopping and dining experiences of the Sudderth corridor and the For every challenge identified along the corridor, there is a Midtown MainStreet District, there are opportunities for hiking corresponding opportunity. Challenges and the opportunities along the Rio Ruidoso, golf, and sports. created by the MRA are described in Table 2. Market Opportunities and Challenges Ruidoso’s focus on a healthy economy includes a strategic approach to business development and focus on diverse, thriving economy. Table 2. Market Opportunities and Challenges The Challenge The Opportunity • The primary challenge and number one priority for businesses is • ENMU-Ruidoso has or can possibly develop programs to enhance developing and retaining a qualified workforce. workforce skills in areas important to local busninesses. • While a few local businesses export their products regionally, • Expansion of traded sector industries would help build a stronger most businesses focus on the local market, which limits their local economy that is less dependent on tourism. The corridor is ability to grow. an ideal location to nurture these businesses. • The high cost of living, particularly housing, is a challenge for the • The corridor is an ideal location for higher density housing and large numbers of service workers that support the tourism mixed-use development that includes housing. The existing industry. Ruidoso is geographically constrained by land ownership density of land uses within Midtown could expand outward along outside its boundaries and steep topography. the corridor. • Residents desire a more diverse economy that provides living • Outdoor recreation presents an opportunity for related wage employment. businesses, including manufacturing of recreational equipment. The proposed business incubator is a resource for nurturing these startup businesses.

The Challenge The Opportunity • More experiences within Midtown, including longer restaurant • The Midtown Association is the organization that can work hours, more nightlife and events are desired but have to be through this with businesses within its boundary. Action on this balanced with year-round demand and the seasonal influx of item will likely not begin until near the end of 2021. visitors. • Traffic congestion is an ongoing problem that affects the quality • The Village is working closely with NMDOT to resolve traffic of Midtown as a pedestrian oriented shopping district. While the issues on Sudderth Driive and improve pedestrian facilities volume of visitors is essential, the ability to easily access throughout the Midtown area. businesses is a challenge.

Organizational and Financial Capacity Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce The Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce (RVCC) focuses on the Ruidoso has several organizations in place that promote tourism business climate of Ruidoso and the surrounding area. As advocates and manage events that draw people to the MRA study area. for local businesses, they seek to maintain an excellent business climate for their members. Under contract with the Village, they LEADERSHIP manage and operate the Ruidoso Visitor Center, which is co-located Village of Ruidoso with the RVCC. Village leadership, including elected officials and department staff is Ruidoso Midtown Association working together to promote Ruidoso and address weaknesses that The Ruidoso Midtown Association is a MainStreet organization have been identified through its comprehensive plan and strategic focused on the success of the Midtown District. In conjunction with planning process. The Village has aligned its Strategic Plan and the village-wide marketing, the Midtown Association works to department work programs with the goals, policies and actions of attract locals and tourists to the Midtown District. The mission of the 2019 Comprehensive Plan. The designation of an MRA is the Midtown Association is “to strengthen the downtown as the implementing the recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan. center of our community through concentrated efforts in The strength of the Village elected leaders and Village organization, promotion design and economic vitality.” By administration is a key asset to implementation of the MRA Plan. supporting streetscape improvements and investments in public Village of Ruidoso Tourism Office gathering places, the Midtown Association creates a destination for The Ruidoso Tourism Office is responsible for promotion of Ruidoso residents and visitors. It was awarded Main Street America as the premier resort destination in Southern New Mexico. Through Accreditation in 2019. its website and informational materials, the Tourism Department Ruidoso Convention Center promotes Ruidoso and the region to potential visitors. The Village The Convention Center is the front door to the community for many leadership is committed to improving the quality of life for Ruidoso of Ruidoso’s visitors and plays a big role in impressions of the residents, workforce and job opportunities, and visitor amenities. community. The convention center hosts many events per year and LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS attracts both local residents and visitors from out of town. There are several local organizations that work together to promote REGIONAL AND STATE ORGANIZATIONS Ruidoso as a place to live, work and play. The network of business groups has the capacity to support the private sector through Southeast New Mexico Economic Development District volunteer efforts and sharing of information. SNMEDD supports its local governments through economic development and transportation planning at the regional level as

well as assistance with capital improvements and funding. SNMEDD MARKETING AND EVENTS can identify appropriate funding sources and assist with funding Marketing efforts to promote Ruidoso as a year-round destination applications for the projects identified in the MRA Plan. have paid off, as seen in visitor numbers and gross receipts tax. The Village’s tourism website, Visit Ruidoso, showcases the area’s New Mexico Economic Development Department attractions and events. The NMEDD supports economic development efforts through statewide programs, implementation of state economic incentives Ruidoso holds numerous events throughout the year, many of and technical assistance of regional representatives. NMEDD staff which are located within the project area. The Village hosts outdoor can advise on incentives and state programs that support business recreation races and tournaments that boost Ruidoso’s economy. success and the goals of the MRA Plan. In addition to general The Chamber organizes three of the biggest annual events in economic development assistance, two divisions of the department Ruidoso—the Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival in July, AspenFest in are relevant to this plan—New Mexico MainStreet and the Outdoor October, and the Festival of Lights parade in December. Some of Recreation Division. these events are held at the Convention Center attracting locals and tourists, such as Oktoberfest and the Ruidoso Art & Wine Festival. New Mexico MainStreet Others are held at Wingfield Park in Midtown, such as the NMMS supports the work of Ruidoso Midtown Association and the AspenFest Festival, Grindstone Trail Runs, Carnivals, and Halloween Ruidoso government body as local MainStreet partners. Resources and Dia de los Muertos events. available through NMMS include capacity building and skill building in the Main Street Four-Point Approach. In some cases, depending on state resources, NMMS provides funding for specific projects and programs.

New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division The purpose of the Outdoor Recreation Division is to expand the state’s outdoor recreation economy. Department programs support starting and expanding companies in New Mexico that are related to outdoor recreation. These resources can be targeted to businesses within the corridor that support outdoor recreation as well as business incubators that nurture outdoor related businesses. Resources cover all stages of business development from early planning to startup to growing an existing business.

Corridor Vision & Goals “Advance the streetscape and create community space’s within Ruidoso’s MainStreet district.” – The Midtown Association

The plan’s vision was established through conversations with the Ruidoso MRA Plan Advisory Committee.

Plan Vision DISTRICT CHARACTER Sudderth Drive is the spine of Ruidoso’s retail district. It expresses The MRA Area respects the area’s eclectic mix of uses and buildings the history of the village through its architecture and continues to and is enhanced with improvements that make the corridor a safer, serve as Ruidoso’s living room for its tight-knit community of more inviting place. Properties are well-maintained, utilized to their longtime residents, second homeowners and loyal visitors. It is the potential, and open for business. hub of village events and commercial activity, showcasing the Village’s traditions and culture. Sudderth Drive is where all come to ECONOMIC VITALITY gather, eat, shop, stroll and experience Ruidoso. Sudderth Drive is home to thriving businesses and open to new business development. Opportunities for start-up businesses are Plan Goals available. Tourist dollars contribute to the infrastructure costs of the district. ACCESS AND MOBILITY The MRA Area includes a network of streets and connections that provide pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and delivery vehicles access to stores, restaurants, lodging and businesses along Sudderth Drive and to nearby community destinations.

PLACEMAKING IN COMMUNITY SPACES The MRA Area is comprised of a collection of welcoming community spaces where people can comfortably gather and rest. These spaces contribute to the area’s commerce and livelihood.

Design Guidelines

Defining Characteristics The character of buildings and the streetscape along Sudderth Drive Rustic, heavy timber accents are varies between the eastern/western edges of the project area that prevalent on many are designed for auto access and take the shape of traditional strip buildings. mall development and Midtown, where buildings are closely spaced and front onto the sidewalk for window shopping and pedestrian access.

In general, the buildings along Sudderth Drive have an eclectic, rustic character as found in many western mountain towns. Natural wood, stone, or stucco finishes are found throughout the plan area.

Many buildings integrate wood elements in the form of trellises, fences, canopies, porticos, or portales integrated into their designs. Pitched and flat roofs are intermixed throughout.

Building Design Guidance As new buildings are developed or existing buildings are renovated, they should integrate pedestrian-friendly and inviting elements that attract foot traffic and activate the streetscape. This can be achieved with buildings placed at the street frontage, transparent windows for window displays, canopies or porticos to provide pedestrians shelter, and front doors opening onto the public sidewalk or patio/courtyard rather than onto a parking lot. These When off-street parking is provided, it should be behind or on the buildings illustrate the character differences along Sudderth Drive. The pitched roof and stucco finish on the left and the façade and the side of the building, not between the building and the main public western false front and canopy on the right activate the streetscape, right of way. with outdoor seating (left) and a covered walkway (right).

The existing scale of buildings should be respected. Activating Sudderth Drive will be helped with upper floors for residential use so buildings will have second and third floors; however, the upper floors should step back from the ground-floor façade and have modulation so new buildings are not looming above existing buildings and the street.

Community Space The community space along the corridor includes public gathering places and parks, such as Wingfield Park, and private outdoor patios and entranceways, as pictured.

Outdoor dining has become common as temporary permits have been issued during the Covid-19 pandemic. During much of the year, outdoor dining is an attractive option, contributing to street life, especially in the Midtown area.

As properties are restored and constructed, public space should be The Time Square courtyard provides a space for people to stop, take integrated into the site whenever possible to continue to foster a break, or have a bite to eat. It is wrapped by small businesses, which activate the space with openings onto the courtyard. Sudderth Drive’s role as the community’s living room. Parking lanes Access and Mobility provide direct access to The area is designated as a “park once and walk” area and as such businesses and there should be an attempt to create shared parking areas that have should be clear wayfinding signage throughout the plan area to point visitors saved for short- term visitor to parking areas. parking to generate the There is also a need for short-term parking in front of businesses most business along Sudderth Drive for the purposes of quick stops for pick up and activity on the deliveries when businesses do not have rear access. The parking corridor. lanes should be restricted for short-term use whenever possible and not used by business owners, employees, or long-term shoppers.

Strategies

Access and Mobility River Access PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS Rio Ruidoso, the Village’s namesake and defining feature is just There are several opportunities to improve the pedestrian north of Sudderth Drive. In some areas you can hear it or catch a experience within the MRA. See Figure 2 and Figure 3 for references glimpse down the steep bank, but connections to it are hard to find. to the following improvements. The Village is improving a rive access point where Center Street tees into Rio Street. The connection up to the corridor along Center Sudderth Drive Sidewalks Street should be prioritized for enhancement. Because the conditions and dimensions of the sidewalks along Sudderth Drive vary so much, a priority project is to improve the Trail Connections corridor’s sidewalks to a consistent quality so that the entire MRA The Two Rivers Trail is one of the few public trails along Rio Ruidoso area is pedestrian-friendly and meets American with Disability Act’s and is accessed off Sudderth Drive just east of Carrizo Canyon Road. (ADA) requirements with ramps and clear areas. If the sidewalk on the northside of Sudderth Drive were enhanced with a more generous width and buffers from vehicular traffic, they Particularly, the walkability in the eastern part of the MRA should could serve as an extension of the trail to residences and businesses be improved. Buildings in this area are more spread out and and encourage more pedestrians in this part of the corridor. sidewalks have had the least amount of repair. PARKING IMPROVEMENTS Side Street Sidewalks to Destinations Developing a shared network of parking on Rio Street in Midtown Side streets intersecting with Sudderth Drive along the corridor where buildings are close together and not required to have connect to key destinations. Their upkeep is essential on making individual parking lots can make it a much easier place to visit. The this a park once and walk environment. Village could help businesses develop shared parking agreements and contribute to the signage and upkeep to make them well-lit, Parking Access landscaped, and maintained. In many places along the corridor, the parking lots are behind properties and accessed from side streets. The connections to these TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT parking lots should be improved to make it safe and inviting for Street improvements to divert through-traffic and deliveries off people to park and walk to their destination. Sudderth Drive could reduce congestion on Sudderth Drive and

provide alternate routes for people wanting to bypass the main LAND ACQUISITION FOR HOUSING street. The 2019 Ruidoso Roadway Design Guide highlights several Housing along the corridor would benefit business by providing strategies for traffic calming. These calming strategies should be convenient housing for workers and by creating a nearby market for explored in addition to traffic diversion. the goods and services available along the corridor. The local service workforce, which is integral to the success of the tourism economy, WAYFINDING SIGNAGE AND BUSINESS DIRECTORY has difficulty affording housing in Ruidoso, a problem that could be All of the access improvements will be enhanced by clear addressed by increasing the supply of year-round housing. Through wayfinding signage that utilizes the Village’s branding and assists the MRA designation, the Village is able to facilitate the visitors in finding all the community’s gems easily. Midtown and development of market rate and workforce housing through other business centers, lodging, trails and parks, and other ordinance changes and acquisition of land at market value. destinations, like the Old Mill (when restored) should be part of the wayfinding signage. WINGFIELD HOUSE HISTORICAL CENTER The Village has acquired the historic Wingfield House so that it can COMMUNITY SPACE be protected as a local landmark and create opportunities for A number of improvements to the public spaces throughout the visitors at the western end of the corridor. The site currently houses district can help make it more attractive and inviting. These 1490 KRUI and has the potential for a center that interprets the improvements and infrastructure costs should be paid for in part by history of Ruidoso and surrounding area. tourist dollars. Character and Design WINGFIELD PARK IMPROVEMENTS One of the primary purposes of an MRA is to encourage Wingfield Park serves as the Midtown Districts community revitalization though well-designed building renovations that are gathering space and a place for special events. The Village is consistent with the character of the corridor, particularly in the developing plans to improve the park so that it can better Midtown area. Vacant and deteriorated buildings provide an accommodate special events. opportunity to upgrade the appearance of the corridor through renovation and, in the case of vacant buildings, reuse. NEW PUBLIC RESTROOMS The Village already has plans to construct two new public ACQUISITION OF VACANT AND ABANDONED restrooms, one at Two Rivers Park and the other near Wingfield PROPERTIES FOR REDEVELOPMENT Park. Extending the hours of these facilities could also be a benefit, The MR Act enables local governments to acquire vacant and especially during evening events. abandoned properties and make them available for redevelopment at favorable terms. Eminent domain cannot be used for land acquisition, but properties can be acquired through other means—

purchased at market value, donated or secured through tax liens, LIGHTING IMPROVEMENTS for example. Lighting improvements are intended to provide a more pleasant pedestrian environment. These improvements will be incorporated FAÇADE IMPROVEMENTS into overall streetscape upgrades. Along Sudderth Drive, lighting will Façade improvements are a common approach to improving the likely be accomplished as part of NMDOT funded enhancement visual character of a redevelopment area. Through the powers projects and roadway upgrades. granted by the state in the Metropolitan Redevelopment Act, the Village can provide loans and grants for façade or other building Economic Vitality improvements. The source of funds could be local or an appropriation of funds from another government source. New ACTIVITY NODES ALONG THE CORRIDOR Mexico MainStreet offers technical assistance and at points has had The Sudderth corridor is 3.5 miles long and changes in character funding for façade improvements. along its length. The strategy for invigorating the entire corridor is to create activity nodes with different purposes at key points along ARTS AND CULTURAL ENHANCEMENTS the corridor. These nodes might include: The Midtown Association mural program, historical sites tours, the creation of an historical museum at the Wingfield House, and • Mechem/Sudderth Intersection. This intersection includes a completion of the privately funded restoration of the Old Mill are cluster of small shopping centers and several buildings that are examples of projects that highlight the arts and the cultural and for sale, vacant, partially vacant or a combination. The Wingfield historical significance of the corridor. Arts and cultural facilities are House is an opportunity to create a public attraction that draws eligible projects under the state Local Economic Development Act. visitors to the area. • Midtown MainStreet District. As the heart of the corridor, SIGN IMPROVEMENT LOANS AND GRANTS Midtown is the primary location for specialty retail, Signage is an important component of design and character in retail entertainment, and dining. Midtown has the eclectic western districts such as the Midtown area. Signs do not need to follow character that is classically “Ruidoso” for visitors. Improving the uniform standards in a corridor as diverse as this one, but pedestrian experience, managing traffic and attracting maintaining sign quality and ensuring that signage does not conflict businesses to vacant buildings will improve the area, which is with the design of its building and site and is not in conflict with the already a vibrant district. general character of surrounding buildings and sites is important. • Sudderth/US 70 Intersection. The larger parcels and suburban The sign improvement program could offer small grants and low style development surrounding the corridor’s intersection with interest loans to assist property owners and businesses with US 70 lends itself to uses that serve both residents and travelers upgrades to existing signage. along US 70. The larger lots in this location provide an opportunity to integrate housing as part of development and

redevelopment. Pedestrian improvements that create a more ORDINANCE CHANGES walkable place would improve the quality of this node. A few ordinance changes have been suggested to help the businesses climate along the corridor. Ordinance changes that HORTON COMPLEX BUSINESS INCUBATOR diversify the uses along the corridor have been proposed, The creation of incubator space at the Horton Complex that — specifically to allow housing and mixed-use development within the Through the MRA designation, the Village will be able to offer start- MRA. Ordinance changes could also support small scale up businesses favorable lease terms. The incubator will support the manufacturing in conjunction with retail sales of locally made development of new businesses in regional target industries. The products. idea is to diversify the local economy by building on the area’s strength as an outdoor recreation destination.

Action Plan The projects and strategies outlined in the previous chapter provide a comprehensive set of approaches that the Village can take to begin redevelopment. The targeted actions described in the Action Plan are intended to begin building momentum through specific next steps that implementing these project ideas.

The Action Plans describes priority projects along with resources required to accomplish them, approximate timeframes, and the ease or complexity of implementation. The Action Plan assigns primary responsibility and potential partners for implementation. Each action plan includes the following information:

1. Project information: who, what, where, why. 2. Priority: the importance of the project, as identified as a top priority, medium priority, or low priority. 3. Action Steps: basic actions that need to be undertaken to complete this project. 4. Timeframe: the general timeframe of the project. There are three timeframes identified: short-term, which is 1-3 years; medium-term, which is 4-6 years; and long-term, which is 7-10 years. 5. Financing Sources: potential funding sources for this project, along with an assessment of the relative cost ($, $$, and $$$). Details on each funding source are provided in the Appendix.

Access and Mobility

PROJECT: SIDEWALK REPAIRS AND STREETSCAPE MAINTENANCE ON SUDDERTH Sudderth Drive is NM 48, a state highway and the responsibility of NMDOT. Sidewalk What This Will Do improvements are planned along Sudderth Drive as part of an improvement project as Provide a more comfortable pedestrian described in the Introduction. This project has been partially funded as an NMDOT District 2 environment along Sudderth Drive maintenance project. throughout the MRA area so people can walk to destinations.

Who Will Do It

Village of Ruidoso in partnership with NMDOT, District 2

Key Resources NMDOT, District 2

Action Steps • Village to coordinate improvements and construction timeline with NMDOT and

property owners for the first phase • Secure funding for future phases

Timeline Short-term

Financing Tools NMDOT District 2 Maintenance Budget Village of Ruidoso ICIP Existing sidewalk conditions along Sudderth Drive

PROJECT: SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS ON CENTER STREET Center Street south of Sudderth Drive is a primary pedestrian link to Wingfield Park and public parking on Wingfield. The existing sidewalk and steps on the first half block south of What This Will Do Sudderth are broken in several places, and there is no sidewalk for most of the rest of the Improve one of the main pedestrian links way to Wingfield Park. Initial sidewalk improvements will repair broken sidewalks and extend between Midtown and Wingfield Park and sidewalks to public parking and Wingfield Pak. A future phase will extending the path north of public parking. Sudderth Drive to the River Trail. These repairs and additions will provide an important Who Will Do It pedestrian connection, greatly enhancing walkability and circulation within this high-activity Village of Ruidoso node.

Key Resources Ruidoso capital projects Ruidoso general fund

Action Steps • Village to coordinate improvements and construction timeline with property owners • Align with Wingfield Park renovation during off-season

Timeline Sidewalk Repairs - Short term Pedestrian Connection – Medium term

Financing Tools Village of Ruidoso ICIP General Funds

Focus on proposed north-south pedestrian corridor along Center (orange dots)

PROJECT: WAYFINDING SIGNAGE AND AREA IDENTITY What This Will Do To help build an identity around high activity nodes, this project recommends creating Facilitate multimodal traffic and promote branded wayfinding signage in these areas. Signs are to be located at key destinations, to key destinations along Sudderth Drive. allow users to move through the transportation network efficiently in all modes, including vehicular travel, walking, and bicycling. The example below illustrates a sign family with Who Will Do It consistent branding across sign types that could direct visitors and provide information along Village of Ruidoso in partnership with the the corridor. The project would include a wayfinding master plan to include signage design Village Tourism Office and integration with the Village logo and brand. A comprehensive branding approach could include visitor maps Key Resources New Mexico MainStreet (technical Development of a wayfinding system typically involves stakeholders. A plan and assistance) implementation strategy includes an audit of destinations, desire paths, and existing Village General Fund conditions; a budget, sign types and locations, a master plan, fabrication and construction. Lodgers Tax funds

Action Steps • Work with a wayfinding signage designer to align with current Village

image and branding standards • Develop a signage plan • Seek funding for implementation,

including signage design,

Timeline Medium term

Financing Tools New Mexico MainStreet (technical assistance) General Funds Village of Ruidoso ICIP Lodgers Tax Example wayfinding sign family

Placemaking/Community Space

PROJECT: WINGFIELD PARK RENOVATION What This Will Do The Village Comprehensive Plan calls for improvements to Wingfield Park that will better Enhance Wingfield Park as a community support goals for community events and placemaking along the corridor. The park would gathering space and location for special continue to function as a neighborhood park. events.

The graphic below is a concept that illustrates potential elements of an enhanced park. Who Will Do It Features would include walking paths, new play areas a central gathering space, a Village of Ruidoso performance space, parking to accommodate events, and incorporation of Village owned properties to the east of the existing park. Key Resources Village of Ruidoso General Fund Some Village-owned property could be retained for a future redevelopment opportunity. Potential developers of future redevelopment site

Action Steps • Village to continue renovations according to the Wingfield Park Master Plan

Timeline Short term

Financing Tools Land and Water Conservation Fund Village of Ruidoso ICIP

Wingfield Park master plan

PROJECT: MIDTOWN DISTRICT MURAL PROGRAM The Ruidoso Midtown Association has established public murals by local artists on What This Will Do commercial buildings throughout the Midtown area to enhance the pedestrian experience. A Enliven the Midtown area and feature walking route takes visitors through the Midtown area past these colorful works of art. mural art in the district.

The proposed project is to continue to install art on buildings throughout the Midtown area. Who Will Do It Ruidoso Midtown Association, businesses, local artists and volunteers

Key Resources Midtown Association businesses

Action Steps

• Midtown Association to apply for funding through the Our Town grant • Seek sponsorships from benefiting

businesses

Timeline Short term

Financing Tools National Endowment for the Arts - Our

Town Grant Midtown Association fundraising

Mural on the side of Tall Pines Beer and Wine Garden

PROJECT: WINGFIELD HOUSE HISTORY CENTER The Wingfield House is a historic home in the MRA Plan area that the Village is restoring for community use as historical/cultural center. The Village is placing the Village radio station on What This Will Do the same site. The goal of this public facility is to anchor visitor activities in the area Create a welcoming hub for visitors and surrounding the Sudderth Drive and Mechem intersection. establish Ruidoso’s unique historical identity.

Who Will Do It

Village of Ruidoso Midtown Association

Key Resources Village community development in partnership with interested residents and Midtown Association

Action Steps • Continue building renovations • Form a committee of interested residents, local historians, and educators to support exhibits and activities

Timeline Short term

Financing Tools Village of Ruidoso ICIP Legislative appropriation General Fund

The Wingfield House

PROJECT: SUDDERTH DRIVE STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS The Village has implemented streetscape improvements in the Midtown area, although these What This Will Do are now aging and in need of updating. Consistent streetscapes along the remainder of the Streetscape improvements will enhance corridor has the potential to unify the corridor as an important feature of the Village. placemaking along the entire corridor and Variations in streetscape themes can distinguish the different segments of the corridor, help distinguish the different segments of highlighting their different design aesthetics and creating identity for the activity nodes along the corridor. the corridor. Streetscape improvements will enhance the pedestrian environment along the Who Will Do It corridor, especially at key activity nodes. Village of Ruidoso Since Sudderth Drive is a state highway, any streetscape improvements will be coordinated NMDOT with NMDOT and general traffic, parking and other improvements proposed along the Midtown Association corridor. Because Sudderth Drive is a state highway, any improvements within the right of Key Resources way must be approved through NMDOT and may occur as part of a highway improvement NMDOT Enhancement Funds project. Action Steps • Develop an inventory of desired improvements at specific locations • Work with NMDOT for engineering and design • Review plans with residents, business owners

Timeline Medium to long term

Financing Tools

NMDOT Enhancement Funds General Funds Transportation Alternatives

Sudderth Drive streetscape looking west toward Country Club Drive

Character and Design

PROJECT: FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM What This Will Do The architecture of the corridor is an eclectic mix of styles. A façade improvement program is The façade improvement program will intended to make relatively low-cost improvements to facades that are in fair to poor help businesses refresh their facades and condition. This could be focused to begin with on specific blocks to ensure an immediately provide a more welcoming, vibrant visible impact. A façade improvement program could range from a “façade squad” where character throughout the MRA Plan area. volunteers provide simple clean-up, new paint and other low-cost interventions to a low-cost Who Will Do It grant or loan program for more intensive repairs and façade renovations. Midtown Association Village of Ruidoso

Key Resources New Mexico MainStreet technical

assistance; potential funding (Façade Squad) depending on NMMS priorities

Action Steps • Village and Midtown Association to work

with property owners and businesses to identify key blocks to improve • Apply for grant funding through NM

MainStreet as available • Allocate general fund moneys to low interest loans, to be administered through a local financial institution

Timeline Short term

Financing Tools NM MainStreet, depending on funding Lovington MainStreet Façade Squad Fundraising

PROJECT: SIGN IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

The eclectic mix of signage types along the corridor is an asset in this location, What This Will Do complementing the mix of building types and architectural styles that make up the visual The sign improvement program, like the character of the corridor. The idea of the sign improvement program is to provide affordable façade improvement program, will help financing for new and upgraded signs. businesses refresh their signs to share current, relevant information in a tasteful, legible way. The Village can establish sign design guidelines to guide businesses in font size and material choices.

Who Will Do It Village of Ruidoso Midtown Association

Key Resources Village of Ruidoso General Fund

Action Steps • Set aside a pool of funding that can be used as a revolving fund for low interest loans • Administer loans through a local financial institution

Timeline Short term Examples of eclectic signage present along the Sudderth business corridor Financing Tools Village of Ruidoso General Fund

PROJECT: VACANT SITES AND BUILDINGS What This Will Do The Village, through its Clean and Lien Program, has initiated cleanup of several vacant Ongoing monitoring and enforcement will buildings. This program in conjunction with code enforcement and ongoing communication reduce the number of blighted structures with property owners will continue to improve the conditions of buildings that are and sites along the corridor. Existing contributing to blight along the corridor. The Midtown Association has a potential role to programs are effective and will continue. play, working with property owners, local realtors and businesses to match potential tenants with landlords. In the event of extreme deterioration and unsafe buildings, the Village could Who Will Do It file and foreclose on liens to acquire properties and facilitate their productive use. Village of Ruidoso fortunately, the Village program to date has resulted in property owner compliance with Midtown Association Village codes. Key Resources Village Clean and Lien program Village Code Enforcement staff

Action Steps • Continue success of Clean and Lien Program by monitoring properties and

continuing code enforcement • Economic Development to work with Midtown Association and landlords to find potential tenants

Timeline Short term, Continuation of existing programs

Financing Tools Village of Ruidoso Clean and Lien Program and Code Enforcement

Example of vacant property on Sudderth Drive

Economic Vitality

PROJECT: HORTON COMPLEX BUSINESS INCUBATOR Ruidoso is a prime location for tourism focused on outdoor recreation. With its natural What This Will Do setting and array of amenities, Ruidoso is an ideal location for a variety of new companies Coalesce resources and energy for new that could complement and build on Ruidoso’s reputation as an outdoor recreation business growth and support in a shared destination. The Village has discussed establishing a business incubator to nurture startup physical location. businesses. An incubator could provide space for entrepreneurs to launch new enterprises by providing affordable rents and links to small business support. Who Will Do It The satellite Small Business Development Center at ENMU-Ruidoso is a potential partner to Village of Ruidoso provides consulting services and training for business start-ups. Key Resources SNMEDD Small Business Development Center ENMU-Ruidoso

Action Steps • Village to begin renovating the Complex and pursuing potential partners • Village Economic Development will create a plan for small business recruitment and cultivation

Timeline Medium term

Financing Tools Village of Ruidoso ICIP National Endowment for the Arts - Our Town Grant EDA Grant

PROJECT: VILLAGE ORDINANCE UPDATE What This Will Do Updates to the Village land use ordinances can support new development and Updates to Village ordinances will enable redevelopment by providing flexibility and expansion of the types of uses along the corridor. the types of development envisioned in As an example, additional residential development that is within walking distance of the MRA Plan. businesses and activities along the corridor is desired but not currently allowed by zoning. Additional residential close to shopping and entertainment is seen as a benefit to local Who Will Do It businesses as well as making the corridor a more active place. Small scale manufacturing Village of Ruidoso associated with desired retail businesses is another potential means of increasing the Key Resources economic vitality along the corridor. Village of Ruidoso Updating the ordinance to be consistent with the Village Comprehensive Plan and the recommendations in the MRA Plan is an important first step in achieving the vision for the Action Steps Sudderth Corridor. This effort will be Village-wide and include stakeholder involvement. • Review existing ordinances and identify needed changes • Small mixed-use infill in Revise Village Zoning Ordinance Clinton, MS, with • Revise other ordinances as needed for apartments above consistency with Zoning Code changes and retail and café below. Outdoor Timeline seating is along the Short term sidewalk, parking is in the rear. Financing Tools Village General Fund

Small mixed-use infill in NMFA Local Government Planning Fund Clinton, MS, with apartments above Commercial and retail and café kitchens, distilleries, below. Outdoor cloth goods, crafts seating is along the and breweries are sidewalk, parking is in examples of the rear. manufacturing associated with retail operations.

Commercial kitchens, distilleries, 44 cloth goods, crafts and breweries are examples of manufacturing PROJECT: RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT What This Will Do Property owners and businesses have noted the importance of developing housing near Create more housing options for Ruidoso commercial areas for staff and patrons. There are larger properties with potential for new or residents that are close to employment. rehabbed workforce housing on the east side of the MRA, near US 70. The integration of Enliven the business district by bringing residential with existing community institutions could be further enhanced by pedestrian residents closer to shops and services. experience improvements, such as sidewalks. Who Will Do It Village of Ruidoso Private developers

Key Resources Village of Ruidoso ICIP

Action Steps

• Village to identify a shortlist of potential sites for either new residential or rehab. • Explore potential partner developers for market rate and workforce housing.

• Complete ordinance revisions to allow housing along the corridor.

Timeline Medium term

Financing Tools Public Private Partnerships HUD Hope VI MainStreet Housing Grant Examples of missing middle housing Ruidoso Housing Trust Fund Housing Tax Credits

Appendices MRA Designation Report Public Meeting Notes See separate document PUBLIC MEETING - DECEMBER 17, 2020 Sudderth Corridor MRA Plan

Participants Mayor Lynn Crawford John Cornelius, Village Councilor Susan Lutterman, Village Councilor Tim Dodge, Village Manager Ron Sena, Assistant Village Manager Samantha Mendez, Community Development Director Jazmín Estrada, Parks and Rec Department Phyllis Taylor, Sites Southwest Rosie Dudley, Sites Southwest Danielle Wilson, Sites Southwest

Curtis Williamson, Advisory Committee Steve Gomez, Advisory Committee Matt Ingram, Ruidoso MainStreet/Advisory Committee Barbara Giesecke Becky E-Books Etc. Candyce Garrett Cynthia Daniel Bryant El Gato Blanco Elissa Cruz Frank

Gary Jackson Project Overview Grindstone Stables Phyllis Taylor of Sites Southwest provided an introduction of the Kay MRA plan and described what constitutes an MRA, including the Kristine benefits for businesses and communities, and what its requirements Jack Pickel are. She presented the proposed MRA boundary, the criteria for Jackie designation, and reviewed the properties that we have identified John R Creek with blighted conditions. She opened the meeting for discussion on John Vinciguerra numerous topics as follows. Kristine Luis Espinoza Discussion Mark Jakubcewicz Boundary Patricia Ainsa • On the East end of the project along the South side of Phil Mescalero Trail there are a number of properties that should be Reed included all the way to its intersection with Hwy 70. Samantha Richie Hood will revise boundary – now extends along Church St. to Ron Morgan intersection with Junction. Sharon Moroney Assets Sue Kopecky • The river is the biggest asset for midtown. Teri Sodd • Ruidoso Midtown is interested in creative placemaking with Will Ponder murals and we’re interested in doing more to enhance the experience along Sudderth. It’s already an asset and we could have more of it. • Sudderth is walkable and people can walk from one end to the other; it’s accessibility is an asset. Bike lanes should be added to the district to make it more accessible. • Parking is in asset. Public and private partnership is an opportunity. Improvements Needed SIDEWALKS/DRAINAGE • Sidewalks and drainage to the Sudderth main arterial needs repair.

• Sidewalks are in poor condition throughout the mid-town area, danger to pedestrians because the cars don’t want to allow including on Sudderth and Center St. people to cross • Drainage at Midtown. • We have been discussing for years making Rio street and • Drainage improvement on Sudderth is a must especially with Wingfield street one-way corridors, one to the East, the other to Properties across from Dollar General. the West, to alleviate traffic on Sudderth. • The current drainage goes underneath the sidewalks. Both need • Chase street, Grindstone Cnyn, Center, Eagle, and Country Club to be fixed simultaneously. I have been told that the sidewalks are all really narrow and could use improvement. are highway state property. Yes the state is responsible for • The intersection on Chase and Wingfield is a very dangerous highway 70 (Sudderth) drainage. The state has been contacted one and frequent near misses with accidents happen because but through local channels. We are waiting for a you can not see oncoming traffic and people drive really fast response/solution. and don’t stop at stop signs. I used to live on chase and RIVER/GREENSPACE Wingfield. car came through the fence a couple times and • I know my tourists love the river. Can we partner with Trout another incident 2 people died. Unlimited to create more habitat that will make fishing more • A cross walk and traffic signal at Sudderth DR would help define pervasive. Currently the only areas that the fish "hold" are some the Midtown shopping area and make for safe crossing at that spots in upper canyon and the area near the chamber and the location at Grindstone canyon. ball field. And those areas are not really great. • Public transportation is also an issue with ZTrans they are • Improvements to Wingfield would be great! limited hours and closed on holidays. • There is a vacant lot on Country Club Dr and Sudderth Dr. If the • Grindstone is also a main corridor to the Inn and Grindstone city can purchase that and turn it into a park, that would help lake and traffic is intense during tourist seasons. tremendously. The City can only purchase at market rate and • Wingfield Street needs to be reworked and rezoned to allow owner is not interested. future development along with helping mid town traffic. • How about a community garden. How can we start one and • The Sutton/sudderth intersection is very dangerous as well. where on Sudderth With new emergency room access right there, only getting PARKING worse. • If we are going to make Wingfield park a more public area to • The traffic calming study that The Village conducted includes hold events we need adequate parking to do so and be aware of revisions to these areas to address these concerns. how close homes are when holding those events. • Tie Wingfield Park to the river on Center Street. extend CIRCULATION/PEDESTRIAN SAFETY Riverwalk to Mechem. tie trail network from links to Midtown (Jack Pickel) • I think we need a better solution to busy weekends rather than just turning traffic lights into 4 way stops. This causes a larger

LIGHTING • how about new greeting sign where the current "seasons • What about improved lighting along Sudderth DR in this greetings" sign is by McDonald's district? • Holiday lights like white shooting stars on Sudderth would be PUBLIC FACILITIES & SERVICES all inclusive. • Replacement of benches and trash receptacles towards the • Holiday lights like white shooting stars on Sudderth would be all west end of Sudderth. inclusive. • Public restrooms that stay open longer. General Comments • Going back to the all season ice rink. It seems that the area • It's not the role of government to be in the business to attract south of the newest parking lot would/could be used. Midtown specific types of businesses to compete with existing needs winter visitors and stayers. Visitors in the winter that go businesses. Work on the improving the public environment and skiing do not typically generate business for midtown nightlife. new entrepreneurs will come. And, the lack of snow is always an issue. When it doesn’t snow, • These properties are deemed Flood Zones through FEMA and skiers don’t come. Where the workforce housing project was to flood insurance is very expensive for property owners. be. • As a permanent Texas resident who owns a second home there, • I think the ice rink sounds fun and in the summer we could do this is exciting news to hear about revitalization on Sudderth. It roller skating to make it a round year activity just seems to have fallen into such disarray over the years. • Farmer's market every week during the growing/harvest season When we go there from DFW, we really notice the dilapidated would be good. Consistency is important. areas more so now ...so as a property owner who spends a lot • Drawing plans for two restrooms by two rivers park and by the of time there but doesn't live there full time, this is exciting! Wingfield site. • The Village has committed funds to improving the sidewalks • Park equipment at 3 Rivers needs to be updated starting with the sidewalk that are the worst condition. • Dumpsters at 2 rivers are in to proximity of where children and Midtown Sidewalks would be great! parents sit • March is usually busy with spring break traffic (I don't know • The NEC of Sudderth and Country Club to the river is a great about this year) but I would think redoing sidewalks in March hotel site for a La Fonda type hotel. would interrupt any Spring Break business that may happen. BEAUTIFICATION The Village doesn’t want to interrupt any business so would be • Trees that drop leaves make a big mess for store owners to very strategic to work on one section at a time. clean up-specially in the rain. • People love midtown, the crowds don’t seem to mind. The • Flower baskets, flags and improved holiday decorations in Mid- parking is the issue. town like many small cool towns across the nation. • We want to thank the village for ALL they do! • Flowers and flags throughout midtown, GREAT idea!!! • So glad to see all the interest and proactive participation!

• Again, as a native Texan, who owns a home there and spends • Would eminent domain be considered in this grant? No time there (mostly in the summer), anything/everything you can • I keep hearing about a roundabout at the Hwy 70 and sudderth do to just "beautify" or "upscale" things there would be greatly intersection. Is this still being considered? No appreciate. Sidewalks and so forth are great, but thank you for • Will the municipal courts on Center be torn down when the just working hard to clean up and improve the appearance and Horton rebuild is completed if ever? Yes looks of the entire village! • Good job, great start on improving our Village! • Thank you. A lot of effort here. Appreciate your hard work! MEETING FLYER • Thanks everyone. Good job.

Questions • What examples of partnerships will come from the Village of Ruidoso for expansion and development? facade improvements, parking • It is a highway-will they let bike lanes happen? Probably put bike improvements on other back streets rather than Sudderth since NMDOT has to approve Sudderth changes. Including bike racks is important. • Can we look at the area east of Wingfield park? Parking, open space, etc... • What about an all season “ice” skating arena? Pete Schiavone had a plan to put one in at one time. • With the district, are there any options for property tax relief where the owners can dedicate the savings into property improvements? • What about restoration of the old water mill? • Re: adjacent streets ... how far up Mechem (north of Sudderth) does this project extend? Just that Mechem needs revitalizing too. Would be a separate MRA • Farmer's Market? Farmer's market every week during the growing/harvest season would be good. Consistency is important. Parks and Rec will debut the Wingfield Market

STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING – NOVEMBER 12, 2020 • Inadequate housing in the area. Housing is a hot topic and it Sudderth Corridor MRA Plan effects the success of the businesses; there is an opportunity for mixed-use structures along the corridor. Housing for employees Participants is sorely lacking. Tim Dodge, Village Manager Map Edits Ron Sena, Assistant Village Manager • Thunderbird isn’t the best-looking building on the strip. It is Samantha Mendez, Village of Ruidoso Community Development operating, but the parking lot is in poor condition and the Director building has had patchy repairs. It should be added as a Jazmin Estrada, Village of Ruidoso Parks and Rec Department deteriorated building and site deteriorated. Stephanie Warren, Village of Ruidoso Short-term Rental Community • Expand boundary to include Rio Street to the north and Assistant in Community Development Wingfield Park and adjacent Village owned property to the Rick Cook, Village of Ruidoso south. Mike Cheney, Win, Place, and Show (WPS) and First American Bank Other Discussion Matt Ingram, Ruidoso MainStreet • It’s a huge area so will need to phase improvements; it makes Kendra King, RMA and Vice President of Ruidoso MainStreet sense to build on successes and focus on a concentrated area Phyllis Taylor, Sites Southwest first. Rosie Dudley, Sites Southwest • Regarding the NMDOT sidewalk project, the Village got Project Overview confirmation that the Midtown district will receive $320,000 in Phyllis Taylor of Sites Southwest provided an introduction of the sidewalk maintenance from NMDOT. Council is dedicating MRA plan and described what constitutes an MRA, including what $100,000 to the effort. Construction will begin in March 2021 the purpose of the Designation Report that the Committee has been and will take 2-3 months. The Time Square area is one area of asked to review. She presented the draft MRA boundary, the focus. criteria for designation, and reviewed the properties that we have • Sidewalks on Center Street need major improvements. Only one identified with blighted conditions. She opened the meeting for side was improved so far. It’s a draw to Wingfield Park (and discussion on numerous topics as follows. public restrooms) with a lot of pedestrian traffic and should be improved to be more walkable. Discussion • Is it possible to have graphics that show what improvements Criteria could look like? Places across the street from Win, Place and To spark discussion among the committee, Phyllis asked what other Show are an example. criteria needs to be included: • Are there transportation alternatives like golf carts or a trolley that could work here? • Defective or inadequate parking, circulation and street layout

Potential Areas and Projects • There is congestion on side streets where roads don’t line up. Phyllis listed some potential areas that the MRA Plan can focus on: Can we increase side streets connectivity so can take traffic off Sudderth? Look at Breckenridge as an example of side street • Façades and Building Redevelopment development. • Public Spaces • Is there a way to accommodate rear deliveries to improve the • Vacant Sites and Buildings function of Sudderth? • Business Development and Promotion • Midtown is looking into a trash can plan; the Plan can look at • Circulation and Walkability placement and aesthetics. • Activity Nodes along Corridor • Address the potential for private-public partnerships for parking Then the committee considered some potential catalytic projects lots along Rio Street. There is a possibility of Village-funded that the MRA should include. The discussion is as follows: parking lot improvements in exchange for making lots available • Vacant buildings should be addressed—right across from WSP for a network of public parking. there are vacant buildings. Having a plan for the types of uses • Bike facilities are needed, including lanes and bike racks. that can add to the life of the street, not just restaurant and • There are watershed issues on east side of Wingfield Park. bars. Being strategic about what goes in and where so it’s not • Address different ways to maneuver around town with bikes, lined entirely with restaurants and bars. Ground level horseback, ATVs, for example. businesses, with residential on second floors and some office. If there is a place where people can live and walk to work, that is Next Steps a good thing. People like to walk. • Draft MRA Plan in December • We’re a tourist community. Do we take advantage of those • Community Meeting to review tourists to help with our infrastructure? A nominal parking fee • Adoption in February would help. Think about who should be paying for our infrastructure costs. • Restrooms, lighting, and sidewalks are all priorities of Midtown. The façade improvement project is a good idea. Art and murals are an interest to draw people to other areas. The plan covers

these well. • Side street attention and trail connections to parking, river trail and Wingfield Park should be addressed.

• There are a lot of connectivity options to leverage.

STEERING COMMITTEE MEETING – JUNE 6, 2020 • What are the most important assets along Sudderth Drive? Sudderth Corridor MRA Plan • What private investment is desired? • What public improvements are needed? Participants • How could an MRA remove barriers to achieving these Tim Dodge, Village Manager investments? Samantha Mendez, Community Development Director The discussion follows: Ron Sena, Deputy Village Manager Steven Gomez, Cornerstone Bakery • Would like to see a strategic approach that looks at what is Lane Adams, City Bank needed across the whole zone for example: X number of lodging Mike Cheney, WPS spaces, housing units, office spaces, and retail spaces. There is Kendra King, RMA and Board of Midtown Association value to have the synergies of these land uses without an Curtis Williamson, Schlotzky’s oversupply in some areas. Richie Hood, First National Bank • Midtown has gotten attention, but there are spaces outside of Phyllis Taylor, Sites Southwest Midtown that are not active or pretty that are lacking and need Rosie Dudley, Sites Southwest attention. • Across the street from Win, Place Show (WPS), there is a 2-story Project Overview building that is vacant and dilapidated. Needs cleaning up. That Phyllis Taylor of Sites Southwest provided an introduction of the building is tied up in the courts right now but Village wants to MRA plan and described what constitutes an MRA, how it can help a use the lien and clean program on it. jurisdiction’s businesses and economic health, what other cities • There are blighted areas on both sides of Midtown. These are have done, and what the project area may be. also areas where the lien and clean program could be helpful. • Will any of the district have focus on affordable or additional Discussion housing? There is a lot of opportunity by the Y for housing. To spark discussion among the committee, Phyllis listed some • There probably will not be any objection to financial help with potential areas that the MRA Plan can focus on: façade improvements on properties. Matching funds are • Façades and Building Redevelopment appealing. • Public Spaces • Need to market the affordable housing a certain way to send • Vacant Sites and Buildings the right message. Housing on Sudderth will be more walkable • Business Development and Promotion and residents won’t need to drive and can save money on gas; • Circulation and Walkability in that way it’s affordable. She then asked the committee to consider the following questions • Need to make sure housing is the right type of housing to for discussion: support the district.

• Mobility—Parking and access to businesses from parking is • Keep an eye toward how COVID could affect businesses in the necessary. Maybe other mobility options like golf carts or a future. More outdoor seating would help. Eliminate red tape for shuttle service would help. Off-street parking is a challenge. Can businesses to make these changes. The Village has been good to be in conjunction with a marketing campaign: “Welcome to work with but the State can make it difficult. Every business Ruidoso; everything is a 10-minute walk.” doesn’t have a lot of space for outdoor seating, but there is • Outside the Midtown Area, the NMDOT has been helpful in possibility for more outdoor eating areas. This plan should look getting the sidewalks fixed. The plan can look at sidewalk at how to make it easier. conditions and ADA compliance in key locations. • Biking paths, walking paths connections, and parking racks will • Village works closely with the NMDOT District 2 out of Roswell, really help the district; they will encourage business owners and and they have been supportive. They work with the Village on employees to walk and bike to work. Need the signage and sidewalks. They are going to be doing comprehensive improvements “share the road”. Driver education is needed. repairs/maintenance. If they ever do a reconstruction of the Examples include signage about sharing the road and brochures roadway, the sidewalks will need to be ADA compliant. The that educate bicyclists and drivers about rules and right to use NMDOT is not amenable to put in crossings in locations without the road. Bike parking is also needed. This could be promoted signals. Highway 48 study was conducted in 2015. The study from the Village side with racks so that people can commute to looked at reducing the lanes of the highway to include bike work. paths. • Wayfinding in general could be very beneficial to the district • In the process of building an outside patio and in C-2 zoning; has and Ruidoso. to go through a variance process to get the patio in that zone. • As far as the boundary, each section has a different set of issues Will there be any zoning changes to make other commercial and there may be different approaches depending on location. projects easier? This Plan can make zoning change Maybe they are phased. How do we get Cornerstone on the recommendations. map and connected to Midtown. If there were well defined • Would be nice to have connections to hiking trails. The NMDOT ideas about what we need to do in certain areas, like affordable would need to do a feasibility study. housing near the Y, then the plan could define a vision for each • Bike paths don’t need to be on Sudderth; they could be better area. The projects and solutions would flow from that vision. on the side streets connecting to Sudderth. The plan should • Start marketing around the walkability and outdoorsy look at how people on bikes get to Midtown and trails to get community. Set a community goal: “We walk 2 miles a day/ we from Sudderth to other areas. Rental bikes might be an option ride 20 miles a day.” Make walking easier, install mile makers to help visitors get around. for walkers, develop ideas for walking trips. • Be aware of the consequences of any recommended action on • Wait until we do the inventory to see where the boundaries are. businesses. Upgrades can’t close a business for 3-6 months. Look for opportunities for new anchors. The Village recently That will destroy a business. purchased a property that will be an anchor near the circle. This

will house a radio station and museum. The Village could do Funding Sources similar public improvements to help other districts. The following are general financing tools that may be used to fund • River Walk could be expanded to reach the business district. redevelopment efforts. These include community funds contributed There is opportunity to apply for federal funds to expand it. But by the Village, state and federal sources, private and non-profit there are areas where private property owners are not grants and loans and charitable grants and loans. interested in allowing the River Walk and people right next to their property. However, these corridors need access. The plan LOCAL FUNDING SOURCES should create ways for people to get to shops. • Can we include the River Walk in this project? We’ll look at the 1. General Obligation Bonds/General Funds previous planning effort and see how to address it in this Plan. Agency: Village of Ruidoso Type: Capital Outlay • One challenge we may face is the community’s sentimentality Description: The Village of Ruidoso and Lincoln County may over old rundown buildings and fear that change will result in a seek GO Bond money or a direct appropriation for loss of character and history. How can the Village make change infrastructure costs using the County’s existing general fund without worrying people? or by issuing new bonds to pay for capital improvements. • Want to have a good idea of where we want to go—have a target as soon as possible—and then work towards that in our 2. Local Gross Receipts Tax Option (LOGRT) inventory. Work back from the vision. We may want certain Agency: Village of Ruidoso businesses, but we have to work with what we have. Type: Tax Funds • Tim thanked everyone for their participation. An MRA is a great Description: As part of the Local Economic Development Act way for private-public partnerships. It supports many tools that (LEDA), residents in Ruidoso may vote to raise the local can benefit us that we should all be aware of. Phyllis will send gross receipts tax to help fund additional economic development projects within the Village of Ruidoso. The tax out more background on these tools. See attached. is collected by the State as part of the statewide gross receipts tax and redistributed to the community for local Next Steps projects. In general, LOGRT provides the community with a • Background Research source of additional revenue to fund additional services or • Site Visit projects related to arts and cultural activities or • Community Meeting in July revitalization projects.

3. Gross Receipts Investment Policy (GRIP) Agency: Village of Ruidoso Type: Tax Funds Description: The Village of Ruidoso may pass a Gross

Receipts Investment Policy (GRIP) ordinance that would 5. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District or Tax allow property owners who develops his or her property to Increment Development District be reimbursed up to 50 percent of the owner’s gross receipt Agency: Village of Ruidoso taxes for infrastructure development costs incurred by the Type: Tax Funds property owner (such as water, sewer, and roadway Description The Village, with the powers improvements). The ordinance is intended to incentivize granted by the Metropolitan Redevelopment District development in key areas. Both new retail and certain designation, may elect to establish a downtown tax targeted commercial businesses are eligible for this increment financing district (TIF) or tax increment reimbursement, which is distributed through a Village of development district (TIDD). Both policies use expected Ruidoso- managed GRIP fund based on the total future gains in property and/or gross receipt taxes (the tax attributable direct sales gross receipt taxes paid by an increment) to pay for current improvements, such as site eligible project. acquisition, streetscape improvements, public infrastructure or building rehabilitation. 4. Industrial Revenue Bonds Agency: Village of Ruidoso and/or Lincoln County 6. Quality of Life Tax Type: Bond Agency: Village of Ruidoso Description: The Village of Ruidoso or Lincoln County can Type: Tax Funds issue Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRB) for the expansion and Description: The City Council may adopt a quality relocation of commercial and industrial projects, such as of life tax increment to support arts and cultural utilities infrastructure. IRB financing is available for land, programs identified in this plan, including additional buildings, and equipment for headquarter office buildings, promotional events. These programs can be administered warehouses, manufacturing facilities and service-oriented by local arts and cultural non-profit. This tax increment facilities not primarily engaged in the sale of goods and must be approved by a majority of voters. commodities at retail. IRB-financed projects are exempt from ad valorem tax for as long as the bonds are 7. Lodgers Tax outstanding and title to the project is held by the issuing Agency: Village of Ruidoso agency. Bonds may be issued in different series with Type: Tax Funds variable principal amounts, interest rates and maturities to Description: The Village of Ruidoso may use the existing accommodate the acquisition of assets with different useful lodgers tax for promotion of Midtown attractions and lives. events to visitors. The tax may also be used to acquire, establish, and operate tourist-related facilities, including outdoor recreation.

8. Improvement Districts Improvement District Act by petition of real property Agency: Village of Ruidoso owners or business owners (subsequent to public notice Type: Tax Funds and a public hearing). All businesses or real property within Website: https://law.justia.com/codes/new- the district that will benefit from improvements are subject mexico/2019/chapter-3/article-33/ to a fee determined by the governing body and specified in Description: Improvement districts can finance the the BID ordinance, along with the list of improvements to construction of public improvements on public property and be provided. Typically, these include: rights-of-way. Assessment districts are intended to finance construction of physical improvements and can be used to • Parking facilities stimulate manufacturing, industrial, commercial or business • Street and streetscape improvements (Street development. They can fund the following improvements: lighting, decorations, landscaping) • Furnishings (benches, trash receptacles, fountains) • Streets • Park and plaza improvements • Sidewalks • Security equipment or facilities • Lighting • Promotion of public events, tourism, and business • Landscaping activities • Sidewalks • Marketing and economic development, including • Storm or sanitary sewers retail retention and recruitment • Water supply and distribution facilities • Security, sanitation, graffiti removal, street and • Gas and electric power sidewalk cleaning to supplement municipal services • Flood control and drainage improvements • Parking 10. Public Private Partnerships (P3s) Agency: Village of Ruidoso & Local Developers 9. Business Improvement Districts Type: Partnership Agency: Village of Ruidoso Description: The Village of Ruidoso may consider Type: Tax Funds establishing public private partnerships with interested Website: https://law.justia.com/codes/new- developers who seek additional financial support or mexico/2019/chapter-3/article-63/ incentives to develop community facilities, including Description: Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are additional affordable housing or retail and office space. public- private partnerships to improve the economic Although public private partnerships take many forms, the vitality and revitalize a business district, provide services to Village may enter agreements with interested organizations businesses, and finance improvements within it. The Village that may wish to develop or operate a Village-owned of Ruidoso may create a BID to “promote its economic property such as a future business incubator or cultural vitality and general welfare” pursuant to the Business facility.

STATE AND FEDERAL FUNDING SOURCES Type: Community Grant Website: https://gonm.biz/business-development/edd- 11. Infrastructure Capital Improvement plan (ICIP) programs-for-business/finance-development/leda/ Agency: Village of Ruidoso and/or Lincoln County (through Description: The New Mexico Economic Development State) Department administers Local Economic Development Type: Capital Outlay Act capital outlay (LEDA CO) funds to local to help stimulate Description: The Village of Ruidoso and County may also economic development efforts. LEDA funds are provided on seek to fund infrastructure projects through their a reimbursable basis only and must be used to fund those infrastructure capital improvements plans. Although funds projects that create “stable, full-time, private sector” jobs in are limited, these funds may be used as matching funds to targeted industries. secure larger grants and/or loans by outside agencies (e.g., matching road funds for a street reconfiguration on a state 15. Small Cities Community Development Block highway). Grants (CDBG) 12. Transportation Alternatives Program Agency: New Mexico Department of Finance and Agency: MPO/NMDOT Administration Type: Capital Outlay Type: Community Grant Website: Website: https://dot.state.nm.us/content/nmdot/en/planning.html http://nmdfa.state.nm.us/CDBG_Information_1.aspx Description: The New Mexico Transportation Alternatives Description: In general, CDBG funding is intended to benefit Program (TAP) is a Federal-Aid funding program. TAP funds low- and moderate-income populations with housing, social can generally be used for bicycle and pedestrian services assistance, economic development or public infrastructure and activities, in addition to other projects, facilities that will serve neighborhoods that are related to economic development, increased safety, and predominantly low- and moderate- income households. increased accessibility. NMDOT has a competitive process to Funds are administered by the New Mexico Department of afford TAP funds, based on how well each project proposal Finance and Administration with a $500,000 grant limit per addresses the goals of the program. applicant. Five percent of matching funds must be provided 13. Cooperative Agreements Program (COOP) Local by the applicant. Government Road Fund 16. Rural Business Development Grants (RBDG) Agency: USDA 14. LEDA Grants Type: Community/Nonprofit Grant Agency: New Mexico Economic Development Department Website: http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-

business- development-grants housing, community facilities, and community and Description: Rural Business Development Grants are economic development projects in rural areas. Rural available to rural communities under 50,000 in population. Community Development Initiative grants may be used for, Grant funds may be used to finance and facilitate the but are not limited to: development of small, private, business enterprises which includes any private business which will employ 50 or fewer • Training sub-grantees to conduct: new employees and has less than $1 million in projected • Home-ownership education gross revenues. Programmatic activities are separated into • Minority business entrepreneur education enterprise or opportunity type grant activities. • Strategic plan development • Accessing alternative funding sources 17. Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant • Board training Program • Developing successful childcare facilities Agency: USDA • Creating training tools, such as videos, workbooks, Type: Community/Non-Profit Grant and reference guides Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs- • Effective fundraising techniques services/community-facilities-direct-loan-grant-program Description: This program provides affordable funding to 19. Economic Development Administration (EDA) develop essential community facilities in rural areas (no Grants more than 20,000 residents). An essential community Agency: Economic Development Administration facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential Type: Community Grant service to the local community for the orderly development Website: https://www.eda.gov/funding-opportunities/ of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not Description: include private, commercial or business undertakings. 20. New Mexico MainStreet 18. Rural Community Development Initiative Grants Agency: New Mexico Economic Development Department Agency: USDA Type: Capital Outlay, LEDA, USDA, HUD, EDA, NMDOT, Type: Community/Non-Profit Grant NMFA Website: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs- Website: https://www.nmmainstreet.org/ services/rural-community-development-initiative-grants Description: New Mexico MainStreet stimulates economic Description: This program provides funding through grants development in historic main street areas throughout the ranging from $50,000 - $250,000 to help non-profit housing state. Ruidoso Midtown Association is a designated New and community development organizations support Mexico MainStreet. housing, community facilities, and community and economic development projects in rural areas. To improve

21. HUD Hope VI MainStreet Housing Grant PRIVATE AND NON-PROFIT GRANTS AND LOANS Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 23. NM Community Development Loan Fund Type: Community Grant Agency: The Loan Fund Website: Type: Business/Organization Loan https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housi Website: https://www.loanfund.org/ ng/programs/ph/hope6/grants/mainstreet Description: The Loan fund is a private, non-profit lender Description: HUD offers housing grants to local that provides $5,000 - $500,000 loans to small businesses governments with less than 50,000 people and less than and non-profits. The Loan Fund will finance equipment, 100 units of public housing. In general, the grant funds may inventory, building renovations, operating capital and be used, in connection with a Main Street effort, to build new affordable housing or reconfigure obsolete or surplus business expansion expenses. As a private lender, the Loan commercial space into affordable housing units. The grant Fund seeks to support low-income individuals and funds cannot be used on general infrastructure or communities that need additional “bridge funding” to commercial development. establish or expand their organizations.

22. Land and Water Conservation Fund 24. ACCION New Mexico Agency: Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Agency: ACCION New Mexico Type: Matching Grants; State Funds Type: Business/Organization Loan Website: https://www.doi.gov/lwcf; Website: http://www.accionnm.org/ https://www.nps.gov/subjects/lwcf/stateside.htm Description: ACCION is small-scale micro-lender that makes Description: Description: The LWCF federal program loans to small businesses that may not qualify for traditional provides three types of grants: bank loans, and also provides business support services.

Loans are primary intended for low-income borrowers and • LWCF State Grants Program: the acquisition or minority entrepreneurs. Since being founded in 1994, development of public parks to create new outdoor ACCION has financed the start-up or expansion of more recreation opportunities. • Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation than 2,300 new businesses in New Mexico with loans Fund: Protect and conserve threatened and totaling more than $23 million. endangered species. • Forest Legacy Program: Protect environmentally 25. The Public Project Revolving Fund sensitive forest lands. Agency: New Mexico Finance Authority Type: Community Loan Website: https://www.nmfinance.com/public-

infrastructure-capital-financing/ CHARITABLE GRANTS AND LOANS Description: The PPRF is an up to $200,000 revolving loan fund that can be used to finance public infrastructure 27. Sponsorships projects, fire and safety equipment, and public buildings. Agency: Miscellaneous Both market rate-based loans and loans to disadvantaged Type: Donation communities at subsidized rates are made from PPRF funds. Description: Although they may often be considered insubstantial or time consuming, sponsorships from local 26. New Market Tax Credits businesses including banks, large retail chains, and other Agency: New Mexico Finance Authority – Finance New donors can be an effective way to raise money for small Mexico Type: Business Loan scale projects. Often, this is enough to fund facade Website: https://www.nmfinance.com/business- improvements, basic building rehabilitation efforts, financing/new-markets-tax-credits/ additional streetscape amenities (trees, furniture, etc.) and Description: The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) is events. Some sponsorships may also involve the donation of designed to increase private investment to businesses and materials or equipment. low-income communities with poverty rates higher than 30 percent by providing a tax credit to investors in business or 28. Crowdfunding economic development projects. By making an equity Agency: Miscellaneous investment in a Community Development Entity (CDE), an Type: Donation investor receives a tax credit against their federal income Website: many, including ioby.org; Kickstarter.com; tax worth 39 percent of the total equity contribution. Indiegogo. com; gofundme.com; StartSomeGood.com; Community Development Entities are certified by the CDFI Causes.com Fund. New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) loan funds are Description: Crowdfunding is a way for individuals from intended to help business investment in low-income census around the world to pool their assets to fund projects or tracts. The fund will help finance the development of organizations they support. Most crowdfunding relies on commercial, industrial and retail real estate projects (including community facilities), and some housing projects. internet platforms that allow donors to connect with Loans for up to 25 percent of the project are available at projects they are interested in funding. Many such low interest rates. NMTC loans are combined with other platforms are available; some more recent options include sources of funding that is secured by the applicant and community-led initiatives that also include strategy managed by Finance New Mexico. assistance. Crowdfunding can be used to support a wide variety of projects that individuals feel are worthy of funding, including many of smaller-scale projects such as facade treatments, public art installations, a downtown

wayfinding system, etc. Although donations amounts vary, considered. The average grant award is $15,000, with some they can be used as a supplement to larger funding sources. as large as $25,000. In some cases, these efforts can also be the impetus to moving a conceptual project to one that can be 30. National Endowment for the Arts Our Town Grant implemented. Agency: National Endowment for the Arts Type: Community and Organization Grants 29. McCune Foundation Grants Website: https://www.arts.gov/grants/our-town Agency: McCune Charitable Foundation Description: The National Endowment for the Arts Type: Community and Organization Grants offers the “Our Town” Grant to fund creative placemaking Website: http://nmmccune.org/apply projects that showcase the distinct identity of their Description: The McCune Charitable Foundation awards community. The grant will pay for cultural planning efforts, grants to communities, non-profits, public schools, and design of projects, and arts engagement efforts. The grant government agencies that are engaged in community-based will not fund construction, renovation, or purchase of projects related to the Foundation’s nine foundational facilities. Projects must involve a partnership with a local priorities. This includes projects that build capacity in the non-profit organization. Grants range from $25,000 to non-profit sector, promote economic development, $150,000. education and childhood development, healthcare, local food, the arts and community engagement, natural resources, urban design, and rural development are all