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Residents urge fixes for open sewer trench and oppose grocery tax increase at Hobbs commission meeting
Summary
During public comment, a resident raised safety concerns about an unrepaired sewer-connection trench on North Grama Street and a local business owner urged the commission not to raise the grocery gross receipts tax, citing burdens on seniors and low-income residents.
Two members of the public addressed the Hobbs City Commission during the public‑comment period on May 18.
Dennis Shearer told commissioners a sewer connection trench on North Grama Street has been open for more than a week and has reduced a four‑lane road to two lanes, creating a hazard for drivers entering and leaving nearby businesses. He said he has observed near‑accidents at the site and asked whether contractors could be directed to complete repairs. Mayor Jonathan Senna and staff said they would get the commenter’s information and follow up with an update.
Tammy Cabot, speaking as a resident and local business owner of more than 40 years, urged commissioners not to raise the grocery gross receipts tax. Cabot said many residents—particularly seniors affected by taxation of Social Security in New Mexico—are struggling with rising prices and asked the commission to seek alternative, transparent solutions to balance the budget without increasing taxes on groceries.
Commissioners thanked both speakers and said staff would follow up on the street maintenance concern and note public sentiment on tax considerations as the city develops its budget.
