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Commission approves nomination of 2090 Snow Road (Ginther farm) despite owner objections
Summary
After extended public testimony from the owner and local real estate professionals who warned designation could harm sale prospects, the commission recommended 2090 Snow Road be added to Mesilla's local historic register; staff emphasized owner-consent is not required and hardship relief exists after designation.
The commission voted to recommend that 2090 Snow Road (the Ginther farm) be included in the Mesilla local historic register following a lengthy public record. Lyanna, the commission's historic specialist, argued the property is an intact example of the town's agricultural heritage, retains adobe and barn features, and sits on a traditional 10-acre parcel pattern tied to irrigation and regional routes.
Property owner Richard Can (who said he was born on the farm) opposed the designation, telling commissioners he is preparing to sell and that historic designation would make the property difficult or impossible to sell and would jeopardize his retirement income. Appraiser Van Bulock agreed, saying restrictions could reduce market value. Lyanna and staff replied that owner consent is not required under the town's preservation code, that designation protects exteriors while interior work remains permissible, and that a hardship process exists post-designation for owners who cannot meet preservation obligations. The commission voted to forward the nomination to the Board of Trustees; staff will include documentation and the town's hardship process in the Board packet.
