The Eddy County Commission convened on September 23, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including updates on a significant building restoration project and the approval of the county budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026.

The meeting began with a detailed presentation on the restoration of a historic building, which has faced deterioration due to weather exposure over the decades. The project has progressed from schematic design to the completion of construction documents, achieving 100% readiness for the next phase. The team has worked closely with the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division, receiving necessary approvals throughout the design development process to ensure that the building's historical integrity is maintained.

The restoration plan includes the careful selection of materials, with 103 features designated for restoration and 63 for replacement. The exterior will cover approximately 41,000 square feet across four stories. Notably, the project has shifted from using a synthetic exterior insulation finishing system to a more traditional stucco plaster, which is expected to better preserve the building's character and allow for proper ventilation.

The presentation emphasized a meticulous approach to the building's wood components, focusing on repair rather than replacement wherever possible. The construction documents, consisting of 52 pages of architectural details, reflect this detailed strategy, which aims to retain the building's historical features while addressing necessary repairs.

Following the restoration update, the meeting transitioned to a brief discussion led by Ms. Rivera regarding the approval of the fiscal year 2025-2026 county budget. This item was presented as an informational update, with no further details provided during the meeting.

In conclusion, the Eddy County Commission meeting highlighted significant advancements in the historic building restoration project, showcasing a commitment to preserving the county's heritage while also addressing fiscal responsibilities for the upcoming budget year. The commission looks forward to moving into the construction phase and engaging qualified contractors for the project.