Mesilla accepts donated Guillera Blacksmith Shop, trustees approve restoration plan

The Town of Mesilla on Feb. 12 voted to accept the donation of the Guillera Blacksmith Shop and approved a long‑term restoration and utilization plan that tasks a future advisory committee with guiding preservation, educational programming and community use.

Neighbors and preservation advocates urged approval during public comment. Michael Langford, who identified himself as the closest neighbor, said the building is deteriorating and asked trustees to "approve the resolution" to preserve the structure. Trina Witter and Mary Helen Taylor Ricci voiced support and asked for more public input on design details (including concerns about a plan diagram that showed parking around the building).

Trustees discussed donor conditions reported in the restoration documents, including a request for donor anonymity and direction that the building be restored for educational and community purposes rather than for expanded parking. The board emphasized grant research and the goal of minimizing parking in favor of green public gathering space.

A motion to accept the donation and to approve the restoration plan passed on roll call (the clerk recorded the roll as showing three yes votes). The board directed staff to form an advisory committee and bring committee membership and charters back for trustee approval.

Next step: staff will solicit committee volunteers and pursue grant opportunities noted in the restoration plan; trustees asked staff to return details on implementation costs and proposed timelines to the board during upcoming budget work sessions.