The Taos Town Council met on Tuesday, Nov. 10, and moved forward on two critical infrastructure projects that affect daily life for residents. Council members approved the hiring of Acme Engineering of Edgewood to start repairs on the Las Cruces Dam, the valley’s only major storm‑water control structure, and allocated $408,221 to replace the sand filter at the Taos Aquatic Center.

Las Cruces Dam Repair Contract

State inspectors have warned that the earthen dam, dedicated in 1967 on Taos Pueblo land off Las Cruces Road, needs immediate attention. A 2024 town simulation showed that a breach during a 500‑year flood could threaten 983 structures. After evaluating five firms, the council awarded the contract to Acme Engineering, which received the highest score.

Interim Finance Director Bailey Andrea explained that limited funding required the council’s approval before final negotiations, allowing the town to tailor the contract to the tasks it can afford. The dam sits at the end of Las Cruces Road east of Kit Carson Road, and repairs are expected to begin once equipment arrives, which is projected to be four to six weeks after ordering.

Public works officials also noted that water restrictions, in place since August, will be lifted soon as repaired wells return to full capacity.

Aquatic Center Filter Replacement

In addition to the dam work, councilors approved $408,221 to replace the roughly 20‑year‑old sand filter at the Taos Aquatic Center. Staff reported that the pool’s chemical consumption has risen faster than expected. Contractor TLC Services will cut a door into an exterior wall, remove the old tank, and install two new filters.

Mayor Dan Barrone emphasized fiscal responsibility, stating, “We want all our bases covered so staff wouldn’t come back asking for an additional $100,000.” Deputy Parks and Recreation Director Manuel Sandoval added, “We made it clear that this is it.”

Equipment for the filter upgrade should arrive within four to six weeks, with installation taking two to four weeks. The town had projected a two‑ to three‑week closure in July, possibly extending over the Christmas holiday. The kiddie and therapy pools will remain closed while replacement sanitation systems are purchased.

Community Engagement and Transparency

The Parks and Recreation Department continues to hold monthly stakeholder meetings on the third Wednesday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for Nov. 18 at 5:15 p.m. at the Taos Youth and Family Center. Councilor Genevieve Oswald asked staff to provide ample notice of any closures through multiple communication channels, noting that “Facebook is not the only place where people are.”

Planning Commission Update

The council also discussed the possible removal of Samson Yen‑Yaw from the Planning, Zoning and Historic Preservation Commission after the state Construction Industries Division red‑tagged his home for an unpermitted addition. While planning director Alexandra Goldman praised Yen‑Yaw’s contributions, she called the red tag “pretty significant” for a commissioner. Town Attorney Jessica Nixon reminded the council that the ordinance creating the commission requires a public hearing before any removal.

Additional Local Initiatives

Councilors Oswald and Darien Fernandez reported on the recent Mountain Towns 2030 Climate Summit in Sun Valley, Idaho, advocating for greener, less manicured public spaces. Fernandez highlighted fire‑safety concerns, noting that flammable material within five feet of a house can be the difference between a home surviving a blaze or being lost. Tree New Mexico, an Albuquerque nonprofit, is looking to expand tree‑planting efforts into Taos neighborhoods.

Mayor Barrone, who owns Olguin’s Sawmill and Firewood, observed that local forests have become overgrown since the logging industry declined, suggesting a need to revive responsible timber operations. Oswald added that thinner forests are healthier, aligning with broader conservation goals.

Public Safety Collaboration

Lawrence Medina of the Rio Grande Alcohol Treatment Program announced plans for a new mobile crisis team to launch by year’s end, with a target opening of the detox center by Nov. 30. Mayor Barrone requested close coordination between the team and the police chief, while Councilor Oswald urged partnership with the North Central Regional Transit District’s Blue Bus service.

Overall, the council’s actions this week reflect a commitment to safeguarding Taos residents, preserving essential infrastructure, and fostering transparent community involvement.

Original reporting: Taos News — read the source article.