City hires Dr. Zoe McKenzie to lead mobile veterinary clinic and support community health

The Doña Ana County State of the County meeting held on May 6, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in community health, safety, and emergency response initiatives. The meeting began with a focus on animal welfare, announcing the hiring of Dr. Zoe McKenzie as the new veterinarian. Dr. McKenzie is set to operationalize a mobile clinic aimed at enhancing spay and neuter programs and vaccination efforts across the county.

The animal control office's response to the recent Ruidoso fires was also commended. Collaborating with the office of emergency management, the team successfully assisted in evacuating and caring for pets when their owners were unable to do so, ensuring the safe reunion of animals with their families.

Sheriff Kim Stewart reported on the accomplishments of the Doña Ana County Sheriff's Department, including the acquisition of a new crime scene vehicle and nearly full staffing of field deputies following a recent academy graduation. Plans for a new public safety emergency vehicle operations course are underway, with hopes for funding to support its implementation in the coming year.

The detention center celebrated the graduation of a new class of cadets and achieved accreditation under New Mexico County's adult professional detention standards, marking it as one of the few accredited facilities in the state. Additionally, the fire rescue department received three new rescue units, which are equipped for both emergency medical services and firefighting, enhancing the county's emergency response capabilities.

The Scribe Triage Center, under the direction of Jamie Michael, reopened as a 24-hour facility, providing immediate assistance to individuals in crisis and connecting them with community resources. This initiative is part of a broader effort to destigmatize mental health issues within the community, including the promotion of the 98 initiative, which offers support for those in need.

The meeting concluded with updates on the new emergency operations center being constructed near the NMSU Golf Course. This facility, expected to be the most advanced in the state, will serve the entire county and its municipalities. The office of emergency management also provided updates on their involvement in recent wildfire and flooding responses, as well as their ongoing efforts to update emergency plans.

Overall, the meeting underscored Doña Ana County's commitment to enhancing public safety, health services, and community support systems, with several initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.