Tax Breaks Without Affordability? Alamogordo’s Housing Debate Heats Up

Alamogordo is growing—and that’s good news. After years of near-total rental occupancy and mounting pressure on working families, two major housing projects are finally in the pipeline for public consideration with government approvals. 

Patriot Point and Sendero Apartments are two proposed projects. Together, they mark a turning point in our city’s housing strategy. But as we celebrate progress, we must also ask hard questions about who benefits, who pays, and what kind of growth we’re truly building.

Patriot Point, a 114-unit gated townhome complex on Moonglow Avenue, is backed by a $21 million federal loan and promises upscale amenities—from EV chargers to a private clubhouse. Rent estimates range from $950 to $1,650 per month. But the developer is also requesting a 7-year property tax abatement, deferring over $1.13 million in local revenue—money that would otherwise support Alamogordo Public Schools, city services, and Otero County operations.

Sendero Apartments, by contrast, is a federally managed project designed for Holloman AFB personnel. It’s solar-powered, security-conscious, and aligned with military housing allowances. Crucially, it does not seek local tax incentives.

This contrast raises a fundamental question: Should Alamogordo offer tax breaks to private developers without clear affordability commitments?

We all want more housing. But incentives must be earned—not assumed. If developers seek public support, they should be willing to:

• Commit to income-based pricing or affordability benchmarks

• Partner with nonprofits to reserve units for seniors, veterans, or low-income families

• Guarantee transparency around rent levels and tenant eligibility

Otherwise, we risk subsidizing market-rate housing that many Alamogordo residents still can’t afford.

Growth should reflect our values: inclusion, transparency, and long-term community benefit. That means ensuring new developments don’t just look good on paper—but actually serve the people who live here.

The Alamogordo City Commission will tackle the question of tax abatements for Patriot Pointe on Tuesday. The public should make it a point to attend and to be placed on the agenda and speak in public comments. Projects such as above need significant public comment. 

Let’s welcome progress. But let’s also demand accountability. Alamogordo deserves nothing less.