The state of New Mexico has been allocated $137 million from the Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery fund, following congressional approval. This fund is managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to aid communities affected by natural disasters.
The money will be used for recovery efforts in areas impacted by DR-4795, which include the South Fork Fire, Salt Fire, and Flooding, as well as DR-4843: New Mexico Severe Storm and Flooding. An Action Plan has been prepared by the state for the grant, with public input being sought until May 4.
Residents are encouraged to contribute their perspectives on the community's recovery needs. Information about the grant and opportunities to submit comments or view the public hearing schedule are available on the state's website. Requests for ADA accommodations can be made by emailing publiccomment@dhsem.nm.gov.
The public hearing schedule includes a series of events:
- Kick Off Events:
April 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at ENMU Roswell, Occupational Technology Center, Seminar Room 124, 20 West Mathis St., Roswell, NM 88203.
April 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. at ENMU Ruidoso, Room 201, 709 Mechem Dr., Ruidoso, NM 88345.
- Community Focus Groups:
April 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Capitan Public Library, 101 East 2nd St., Capitan, NM 88316.
April 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Chaves County Joy Center, 503 E. Argyle St., Hagerman, NM 88232.
April 22 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Lake Arthur Joy Center, 700 N. Oklahoma Ave, Lake Arthur, NM 88235.
April 23 from 6 to 7 p.m. will be conducted virtually via Zoom. Details for joining include a meeting ID: 872 2163 63639, available either through the link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87221633639 or by phone at 1-253-215-8782.
April 25 from 6 to 7 p.m. is also scheduled for a virtual meeting with meeting ID: 828 6685 5071. Participation can be through https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82866855071 or by calling 1-253-215-8782.
April 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Ruidoso Downs Senior Center, 393 E Highway 70, Ruidoso Downs, NM 88346.
April 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. at ENMU Ruidoso, Room 20, 709 Mechem Dr., Ruidoso, NM 88345.
