Voices of Alamogordo Forum Recap: Parks, Recreation, Library, Senior Services, Airport — and a Critical Pool Vote on the Horizon

Alamogordo, NM — April 7, 2026 Produced by 2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News & KALH Radio

The April installment of the popular Voices of Alamogordo community forum series drew approximately 25 engaged residents to Otero Arts (Otero Artspace) on Tuesday evening for a wide-ranging, 90-minute salon-style dialogue with some of the city's most essential department leaders. Moderated by journalist and host Chris Edwards of 2nd Life Media and KALH Radio, the forum featured representatives from the City of Alamogordo's Parks & Recreation and Community Services departments, the Public Library, Alamo Senior Center, and Alamogordo-White Sands Regional Airport — with City Manager Dr. Stephanie Hernandez participating throughout the evening.

Mayor Sharon McDonald also attended as a community participant and offered remarks praising the dedication and commitment of city staff to serving Alamogordo residents.

Natatorium Update: Voter-Approved Pool Faces Potential Delay — Your Voice Needed Tuesday

The most urgent topic of the evening centered on Alamogordo's long-awaited natatorium — the new indoor aquatic center approved by voters as a bond initiative to enhance quality of life in the community.

Dr. Stephanie Hernandez delivered a sobering update: following a recent City Commission vote, the sale of bonds that served as the primary financing mechanism for the pool has been suspended from Alamogordo's participation. The decision was led by Commissioner Al Hernandez and supported by Commissioner Rairdin and others. Commissioner Hernandez has publicly stated that he supports the pool, but the financing suspension means the project now faces a potential delay in opening until 2028 — unless alternative funding options are identified and acted upon.

The good news: city staff have already identified alternative financing options that could keep the pool construction on track for the original 2027 opening timeline. Those options will be on the table for discussion at the City Commission meeting next Tuesday.

Residents are strongly encouraged to attend next Tuesday's City Commission meeting and make public comments in support of keeping the pool moving forward on its original timeline. The bond initiative was placed on the ballot by the Commission and approved by the voters — that democratic mandate deserves to be honored.

It is also worth noting that delays carry real financial consequences beyond community disappointment. Construction material costs and labor costs are rising sharply amid national inflation pressures. Every month of delay risks increasing the ultimate cost of the project, potentially stretching taxpayer dollars further than necessary.

Watch the full forum discussion: https://www.youtube.com/live/hsmT3UEXpd0?feature=shared

Airport: Commercial Service Study and Holloman Partnership Potentially on the Horizon

Troy Orr, Airport Manager at Alamogordo-White Sands Regional Airport, provided updates on the facility's operations and future possibilities. A study is being discussed to assess what it would take to bring commercial air service to Alamogordo — a development that would represent a transformative economic opportunity for the region. Additionally, a potential joint project partnership with Holloman Air Force Base is being explored, which could significantly expand the regions air capabilities and regional connectivity in the years ahead.

Library: A Surprisingly Robust Hub — 300 Visitors Daily

Library Manager Kimberly Underwood (MLS) shared figures that surprised many in attendance: the Alamogordo Public Library is serving approximately 300 individuals per day through a combination of in-person visits and online services. Far from a quiet or underutilized space, the library is an active, working community anchor offering a broad range of resources to residents of all ages. The numbers underscore the library's vital role in community education, services, and connectivity.

Zoo Upgrades, Community Events, and Reaccreditation Progress

The Alameda Park Zoo received enthusiastic highlights during the forum. The zoo is currently nearing reaccreditation — a significant milestone that affirms the quality of its animal care and operations. Attendees were reminded of the zoo's remarkable reach: over 60,000 visitors annually, a phenomenal achievement for a small-town facility and a testament to its standing as a genuine regional tourist destination.

Community-driven events tied to the zoo and parks system were also spotlighted, including Earth Day, Zoo Boo, First Fridays, and a full calendar of family-focused activities planned throughout 2026. These events reflect the deep partnership between city departments and the community in creating quality-of-life experiences for Alamogordo residents and visitors alike.

Senior Center: Positive Impact and Active Programming

Magdalena Morales, Director of the Alamo Senior Center, highlighted the variety of programs and events serving Alamogordo's senior population. The center was praised for its positive impact on quality of life, community connection, and the wellbeing of older residents. Its ongoing programming serves as an important safety net and social hub for one of the community's most valued populations.

 A Night of Civic Engagement and Departmental Pride

Each department representative who took the stage spoke passionately about their commitment to serving Alamogordo and the meaningful impact their work has on the day-to-day quality of life in the community. Department heads also offered praise for the leadership of Dr. Hernandez, recognizing her approach of empowering staff to serve effectively while maintaining tight budget controls — a management philosophy aimed at ensuring the long-term stability and viability of city services.

The approximately 25 citizens in attendance asked probing yet professional questions, engaging with city representatives in what was described as a robust and productive dialogue. Mayor Sharon McDonald's participation as a listener and community member — offering a comment on her pride in city staff's dedication — added an additional layer of civic warmth to the evening.

Action Item: Attend the City Commission Meeting — Tuesday, April 14

The most immediate call to action from the forum: show up Tuesday at the City Commission meeting and make your voice heard on the natatorium financing discussion. The pool was put on the ballot by your elected officials, approved by you the voters, and the community deserves to see it delivered on time and on budget. Alternate financing options identified by city staff are ready for consideration — what's needed now is the political will to move forward.

For updates, visit AlamogordoTownNews.org or follow 2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News and KALH Radio on social media and streaming platforms.

Watch the full April 7 forum replay: https://www.youtube.com/live/hsmT3UEXpd0?feature=shared

Reported by 2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News & KALH Radio — bringing local voices together for a stronger Alamogordo.

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