Alamogordo NM
6-10-2026 4:49am

Tularosa Planning and Zoning Commission Tackles Growth, Infrastructure Fees, and Safety Concerns

TULAROSA, N.M. — The Village of Tularosa Planning and Zoning Commission met Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 609 Saint Francis Drive to review permit applications, discuss development challenges amid village growth, and advance regulatory reforms.

With Commissioners Skaggs, Yates, Anser, Johnson, and DeBoise present (Mr. Helton absent), the commission established quorum, unanimously approved the agenda, and accepted minutes from the previous meeting. No formal public comments were received.

Growth Pressures and Proposed Development Impact Fees

Commissioner Johnson delivered opening remarks highlighting the strain of increasing village growth on existing infrastructure and residents. He noted that roads, water, sewer, drainage, parks, police, and fire services are currently funded entirely by current taxpayers, while inconsistent permit and fee collection allows “off the books” construction that creates safety risks and lost revenue.

The commission discussed implementing Development Impact Fees under New Mexico’s Development Fees Act to ensure new growth pays its proportional share of infrastructure costs. Allowable fees are limited to water, sewer, roads, drainage, parks, and public safety improvements. Waivers or adjustments are possible for developers providing their own infrastructure or affordable housing units.

Preliminary illustrative fees cited as examples could rise. Hotel fees would be based on floor area or rooms (separate from lodgers’ taxes), while cell tower fees are restricted by federal law to cost recovery, primarily for drainage and permitting.

The commission emphasized that strong enforcement is essential. A motion was requested directing staff to begin the ordinance process for impact fees and close existing permit collection gaps.

Permit Applications

The commission reviewed three building permit applications:

• 2026 BP 013 (Roberto & Teresa Granados, 3 Maron Drive) — Installation of a metal RV storage shed: Postponed due to an incomplete application lacking a required site plan. Commissioners stressed the need for full documentation, including setback compliance, before approval to avoid issues with village trustees.

• 2026 BP 014 (Peter Tubbs, 600 Bass Street) — Installation of a small garden shed: Approved unanimously.

• 2026 BP 015 (Rebecca Garcia, 103 Sierra Blanca Drive) — Re-roofing of a home: Approved unanimously after confirming use of a licensed contractor.

Unfinished Business and Regulatory Reforms

• Ordinance Updates: The village attorney is reviewing planning and zoning ordinances, with priority items advancing to the trustees.

• MOUs with Construction Entities: Draft Memoranda of Understanding are being prepared with surveyors, general contractors, roofers, manufactured home manufacturers/installers, and others to improve oversight and service delivery.

• Vacant and Unsafe Buildings: Commissioners expressed urgency over abandoned and fire-damaged structures, particularly on First Street, which pose hazards to children. They directed notification to code enforcement for condemnation or demolition proceedings.

• Coordination with State Agencies: Plans include formalizing procedures with the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (NMCID) to prevent bypassing local codes and incorporating state engineer oversight for wells and septic systems.

• Cell Tower Issues: The commission clarified it did not approve a recent cell tower permit — it only held a public hearing. The village council approved it via special use permit. A draft wireless communications ordinance (modeled after Ottertail County’s) has been submitted to the village attorney. An appeal of the permit is under review.

• Sewer Hookup (2026 BP 007): Applicant Miss Carr’s request for sewer connection (due to septic system limitations) requires an engineering study on gravity fall and pipe dimensions before further action.

Community Safety Concerns

Additional complaints were raised about junk-filled properties, including a corner lot on Montezuma Avenue with debris and suspected drug activity. Commissioners agreed to refer these matters to code enforcement and police for investigation, prioritizing child safety around unsafe structures.

Next Steps

The commission continues to focus on transparency, fair enforcement, and proactive measures to manage growth while protecting public safety and village resources. Reforms aim to strengthen oversight, update outdated ordinances, and ensure new development contributes equitably to infrastructure needs.

For full details, residents are encouraged to attend future meetings or contact village staff. The Alamogordo Town News will continue monitoring planning and zoning developments across Otero County.

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