The Rio Rancho Public School Board on Aug. 25 approved a multiple‑vendor award under ITB number 2025‑027‑SND to buy locally produced fruits, vegetables, chiles, mushrooms and beef for district meal programs. Chief procurement officer Michael Madrid and nutrition staff described the solicitation and the recommended vendor list.

Madrid recommended awards to multiple local producers to ensure continuity of supply and best value; the list includes Buono Foods (El Encanto d/b/a), Enchanted Farms (mushrooms), EW Farms LLC, MA and Sons Inc., Carisco Family Farm, Red Dog Farm, Silver Leaf Family Farms LLC, Wagner Farms, USA Beef Packing LLC and Rancho de Santa Fe. Nutrition staff said the district has roughly $115,000 available to purchase New Mexico‑grown products and that the cooperative procurement will help comply with federal grant contingencies encouraging locally sourced products.

Board member Gary Tripp moved approval and board member Miller seconded; the board approved the multiple award by roll call vote, 4–0. District staff noted the procurement allows other entities to piggyback on the district price agreements under the state procurement code and strengthens ties with New Mexico agriculture.