The Coalition of Conservatives in Action (CCIA) has announced a referendum petition to repeal Las Cruces' newly approved Realize Zoning Code. This announcement follows the City Council's approval of the comprehensive revision and was made public through a press release on March 1, 2025.
According to CCIA, under the Realize Las Cruces initiative, single-family housing zones have been replaced by three new "neighborhood districts" (NH1, NH2, NH3). These changes are intended to increase housing density and permit apartment complexes, mobile homes, small businesses, and gas stations in all neighborhoods with special permits. Additionally, housing developers will be required to contribute to park development costs, potentially raising housing expenses. After the City Council's approval, a referendum petition was initiated to repeal the ordinance. The petition requires 3,240 signatures for a public vote. If successful, implementation would be halted and the Council would decide whether to re-vote.
Las Cruces City Council approved updates to zoning and building ordinances on February 18, 2025. This modernization effort replaces outdated chapters with Realize Las Cruces and aims to streamline regulations while aligning with the Elevate Las Cruces comprehensive plan. An eight-month grace period allows applicants to submit plans using either the old or new codes.
According to CCIA organizer Sarah Smith, "City Council knew there was widespread concern about Realize Las Cruces. Instead of being willing to compromise with common sense solutions (such as ensuring that apartments and businesses are not allowed in existing neighborhoods), they pushed forward with the ordinance anyway." Smith further said that "the people of Las Cruces deserve to weigh in on this huge change to our way of life," adding that they are collecting signatures for a ballot vote.
The Coalition of Conservatives in Action is described as a non-partisan advocacy organization focused on government accountability and promoting civic engagement. Its mission is said to be holding elected and appointed officials accountable through citizen participation and civil discourse, emphasizing local change. According to its website, CCIA operates through four action committees: election integrity, faith outreach, education, and crime and public policy.
