Mondays with the Mayor
August 24, 2026: Guests and Topics Discussed
Mayor Lynn Crawford & Village Manager Ron Sena: Discussed the latest Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) report, with revenues approximately $500,000 below the same period last year. They noted that the Village is beginning to see the economic impact of the Ruidoso Downs Race Track closure.
Levi Beaty, Public Works Director: Provided updates on several Village projects, including a major water leak in the LL Davis area that required replacement of an entire water line. He also reported that paving at the 603 Mechem Housing Project is scheduled to begin Tuesday, with the fencing contractor expected next week to complete rock work around the entrance.
Cade Hall, Fire Chief & Eric Queller, Emergency Manager: Chief Hall provided an update on three new fire trucks being prepared for service and discussed the Sunset Fire north of Capitan, which remains uncontained and is being monitored within designated wilderness areas. Queller discussed the Hawk Fire near Reno, Nevada, and the more than 79 major wildfires currently active nationwide. Hall also explained how decisions are made about deploying local firefighting resources to assist with wildfire response elsewhere in the country.
Melissa & Wayne, The Tea Room at Swallow Hill: Introduced listeners to The Tea Room at Swallow Hill and shared what visitors can expect from the experience, including the teas and treats served during a visit.
Eddie Ryan, Manager of Events & Strategic Partnerships: Asked for community assistance identifying potential filming locations for a possible Netflix television series that may be produced in the area. He also discussed another production that ultimately chose a different location because its specific site requirements could not be met locally.
Stephanie Long, Wingfield Heritage House Curator: Previewed this weekend’s Building Ruidoso: A Mountain Maker Family Day at Wingfield Heritage House Museum, featuring creative activities and hands-on experiments for families and children.
Matthew Baird, Parks & Recreation Director: Recapped the successful Sierra Blanca Burro Bonanza Pack Burro Race held Saturday, including strong attendance and potential improvements to help manage crowds at future events.
Steve Minner, Police Chief & Jason Janopolous, Deputy Chief: Discussed the department’s new Bicycle Patrol unit and its use during the Burro Bonanza festivities. They also reported that speed-camera violations continue to decline each week, suggesting motorists are slowing down in monitored areas. Deputy Chief Janopolous noted a slight increase in vehicle burglaries and reminded residents and visitors to lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and secure belongings in trunks.