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Dona Ana commissioners approve two revised GO bond questions after public input
Summary
The Board approved two revised general‑obligation bond questions for the Nov. 4, 2025 ballot, combining recreation and water/wastewater priorities into a $105 million measure and placing $35 million for fairgrounds and amphitheater upgrades as a separate question.
Dona Ana County commissioners on Aug. 26 voted to place two general‑obligation bond questions on the Nov. 4, 2025 ballot, revising earlier plans after community meetings and staff briefings.
What passed: The board approved an amended package that places two separate measures before voters: (1) up to $105 million in bonds for acquisition, planning, design, construction and equipping of new and upgraded recreational centers, parks, trails and community centers and for acquisition, planning, design, construction and equipping of water and wastewater systems; and (2) up to $35 million in bonds for event‑venue upgrades at the county fairgrounds, including conversion of the old speedway to an amphitheater and road‑access improvements along the planned High Mesa Road. The resolution carrying the board’s action was numbered 2025‑97.
Why the change: Commissioners reported extensive feedback from community listening sessions. Staff recommended splitting and refining the request so voters could weigh priorities more clearly. Several commissioners urged additional, targeted outreach before finalizing project lists and stressed the need to protect important infrastructure funding for roads from long‑term financing; board members discussed funding roads from reserves instead of the bond package.
Public input: Residents who spoke during the meeting urged caution and more detailed notices explaining the tax impact and precise project lists; others asked the commission to include housing or to ensure investments reach rural colonias. Several speakers urged the board to provide clear project‑level spending plans before the election so voters understand tradeoffs.
Next steps: County staff said they will finalize the ballot language and coordinate with the county clerk’s office for publication and filing deadlines; the board approved publication and directed staff to provide outreach and more specific project plans so voters can make informed choices in November.
Ending note: The two questions are on the ballot only if voters approve them in November; the resolution does not itself spend bond proceeds.
