Rio Rancho council approves agreements, adds MOUs and funding conditions tied to Project Ranger

The Rio Rancho City Council voted to approve three linked resolutions related to Project Ranger, a proposed solid-rocket-motor production site being pursued by Castellian Corporation, adding conditions that require written memoranda of understanding (MOUs) before the city releases funds.

Councilors approved R136 — the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with Sandoval County — only after adopting two amendments that require (1) a written MOU clarifying the relationship among Rio Rancho Fire Rescue, Sandoval County and the State Fire Marshal (authority having jurisdiction, plan review, inspections, incident planning) and (2) a written MOU detailing road-construction plans, funding sources, maintenance responsibilities and a timetable for phases before any city funds are released. Council voted on R136 as amended and recorded a majority in favor; one councilor voted no.

The council also approved R135, authorizing the city manager to negotiate and enter into an agreement for water (and potentially wastewater) services for Project Ranger, and R134, a budget adjustment to provide economic-development funding tied to the project. Those motions passed on roll call.

City staff framed the amendments as conditions meant to protect local public safety and clarify responsibilities. City Manager Mark Roper told the council the language was intended to add “meat on the bones” to previously discussed commitments and to require that MOUs be in place before funds are disbursed. Deputy County Manager and Sandoval County staff indicated they had no objection to the proposed amendments and offered county collaboration on emergency planning and road funding.

During debate councilors repeatedly emphasized two points: first, that Rio Rancho Fire Rescue must have a clear, written role and a seat at the table for plan review, inspections and incident response before any energetic operations occur; second, that a concrete road-construction plan (Paseo del Volcán / ancillary improvements) with identified funding and maintenance responsibilities should be established in writing.

The City Manager said Project Ranger representatives and county staff will return with a progress update on community outreach and the status of the MOUs at the council meeting on Dec. 18. He reiterated that under applicable rules and the state-land lease, the company cannot bring energetic materials on-site and cannot begin energetic production until required safety plans, permits and federal/state inspections are complete.

The council’s actions allow the city to continue with conditional financial participation while requiring documented intergovernmental agreements intended to protect city residents and first responders.