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Councilors press for greater recognition of Rio Communities, raise ZIP code concerns
Summary
Councilors said Rio Communities is not well recognized regionally, cited Chamber of Commerce gala under‑representation, and discussed the city's ZIP code (87002) being associated with Belen; staff said USPS had previously declined a separate ZIP code due to delivery‑volume thresholds.
Councilors used the discussion period to press for greater visibility for Rio Communities in regional venues and commerce events and raised administrative hurdles tied to the city’s ZIP code. Councilor Gordon and Councilor Nelson described under‑representation at recent events; Councilor Melendez said the 87002 ZIP code causes external systems to identify the city as Belen and affects perception and gross‑receipts reporting.
Dr. Moore said the city had twice pursued a separate ZIP code through congressional and USPS channels but that the regional postal manager determined the city did not meet delivery‑volume thresholds to qualify. Councilors asked staff to continue pursuing options to raise the city’s profile and to explore postal and administrative steps that could improve recognition.
