Santa Fe County designates polling places and adopts Little Tesuque Creek management plan

During the recent Board of County Commissioners meeting held on July 10, 2025, in Santa Fe County, significant resolutions were passed regarding polling places and the management of local open spaces, reflecting the county's commitment to enhancing civic engagement and environmental stewardship.

One of the primary discussions centered on the resolution to designate polling places for the upcoming 2026-2027 election cycle. Andrea Tapia, the Bureau of Elections Administration supervisor, presented the plan, which includes 31 early voting sites and 34 general election sites, introducing two new locations: Unity Church and Fort Marcy Recreation Complex. The resolution aims to streamline the voting process by providing separate lists for primary and local elections, thereby reducing the need for amendments.

Commissioner Kokari Stone raised an important point regarding accessibility, inquiring whether polling place maps could be made available online, particularly in relation to public transportation options. Tapia acknowledged the current partnership with senior services for transportation but expressed a desire to expand these efforts in the future, emphasizing the need for all residents to have access to polling sites.

The second major topic of discussion was the adoption of a management plan for the Little Tesuque Creek Open Space. Monica Harmon, the open space resource management specialist, outlined the plan's objectives, which include protecting sensitive ecosystems while ensuring public access to the popular trail system. The management plan addresses challenges such as erosion, user impacts, and climate change, proposing strategies like erosion control measures and educational opportunities for visitors.

Commissioners expressed their support for the plan, highlighting the importance of maintaining the trail's integrity and accessibility. Discussions also touched on potential improvements to parking and security at the trailhead, with suggestions for collaboration with the New Mexico Department of Transportation to enhance access and safety for visitors.

Both resolutions, numbered 2025075 for the polling places and 2025076 for the management plan, were unanimously approved, marking a proactive step towards improving electoral participation and preserving natural resources in Santa Fe County. The meeting underscored the county's ongoing efforts to balance community needs with environmental conservation, setting a positive tone for future initiatives.