Rio Rancho approves lodgers-tax change, advances bond and salary ordinances; budget adjustment OK'd for 9‑1‑1 center

The City of Rio Rancho governing body on March 27 took a series of votes on ordinances and a resolution that will affect tax collection, capital financing, municipal compensation rules and funding for the city's emergency communications center.

Lodgers tax: The council approved on second reading an ordinance amending Chapter 37.02 of the municipal code to account for short-term rentals as taxable premises and to address licensing and language updates that mirror applicable state statute. Director or staff presentation noted the change follows the governing body's earlier decision to allow short-term rentals to operate legally in the city effective July 1, 2025. Vote: O5 approved on second reading; recorded yes votes included Councilor Dapson, Councilor List, Councilor Linnentine, Councilor Weimer and Mayor Gregg Hall.

Gross receipts tax improvement bond (O6): On first reading, the governing body approved an ordinance authorizing the issuance and sale of gross receipts tax improvement revenue bonds, series 2025, in a maximum principal amount of $32,000,000. Finance staff said the financing…