Residents of Area 1 submit petition for Agua Fria community inclusion

The Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners held a regular meeting on July 8, 2025, where significant discussions centered around a petition process related to the Agua Fria traditional community. Residents expressed their desire to include portions of Area 1 in this community prior to any annexation.

During the meeting, Jared O'Shell, a resident of Area 1, addressed the commissioners, referencing a passage from the 2008 annexation settlement agreement between the city and county. He emphasized that residents have the right to submit petitions to the Board of County Commissioners regarding their community's inclusion. O'Shell highlighted past efforts that were dismissed due to minor technicalities, which he argued did not reflect the will of the people.

The petition package is set to be formally submitted to the county clerk within the week, indicating a proactive step by residents to engage with local governance and advocate for their community's interests. This move underscores ongoing discussions about community representation and the importance of adhering to established agreements in local governance.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commissioners to consider the residents' concerns and the implications of the petition process moving forward. This development marks a significant moment for the residents of Area 1 as they seek to assert their rights and influence the future of their community.