Mondays with the Mayor
August 17, 2026: Guests and Topics Discussed
Heath Dobrovolny, Deputy Manager: Reported that the Emergency Watershed Protection Buyout Program continues to move forward, with two property purchase offers accepted and additional offers expected soon. He also explained that acquired properties will likely be demolished as a coordinated group once enough purchases have been completed.
Fire Chief Cade Hall: Provided an overview of emergency responses during the past week, including two structure fires on Sudderth Drive and Apache Trails, along with multiple lightning strike calls following recent storms.
Eric Queller, Emergency Manager: Reviewed the impacts of weekend storms that caused temporary flooding and road closures throughout the Village. He encouraged residents to use the Rain Map online and in the Discover Ruidoso app for real-time road-closure information and shared the latest weather outlook.
Levi Beaty, Public Works Director: Updated listeners on several ongoing infrastructure projects, including work on the 603 Mechem project, paving in Cree Meadows, and improvements to the Brady Canyon low-water crossing.
Eddie Ryan, Manager of Events & Strategic Partnerships: Highlighted this weekend’s Sierra Blanca Burro Bonanza Pack Burro Race at Wingfield Park and encouraged residents and visitors to attend.
Matthew Baird, Parks & Recreation Director: Discussed registration for upcoming fall sports programs and provided an update on planned lighting improvements at the Eagle Creek ball fields.
Stephanie Long, Wingfield Heritage House Curator: Promoted next week’s Mountain Makers Family Day, featuring hands-on activities, creative projects, and family-friendly educational experiences at the museum.
Eric Chavis, PNM: Addressed customer concerns about estimated utility bills, explaining that temporary staffing shortages affected meter reading operations and assuring customers the issue is expected to be resolved soon.
Andrew McCraw, Ruidoso High School Athletic Director and Head Football Coach: Introduced himself to the community and shared a preview of the upcoming Ruidoso Warriors football season.
Police Chief Steve Minner: Reported that the Village’s speed enforcement cameras recorded approximately 100 speeding violations last week, a decline from previous weeks. He also discussed the Police Department’s role during flood response, including the use of department trucks equipped with plows to help clear debris when needed.