Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
Officials from New Mexico MainStreet and Leighton Moon during a Zoom videoconference earlier this month display a late-stage prototype of Tucumcari's new tourism logo during a Tucumcari Lodgers Tax Board meeting.
To promote the city's new logo, the Tucumcari City Commission voted to spend $5,000 in lodgers tax funds to help produce promotional items sporting the city's new emblem.
The logo is the product of a branding effort that included city government, the city's Lodgers Tax Advisory Board and Tucumcari MainStreet.
District 1 Commissioner Ralph Moya reminded the commission and those watching or listening to the meeting that lodgers tax funds are reserved for promotional activities. Lodgers taxes are paid by people who stay at the city's motels.
The commission also authorized the use of property at the city's old landfill on Quay Road AP by Plateau Telecommunications to install a temporary tower to enhance wireless internet service to students and people working from home.
In other matters:
• The commission approved an October budget adjustment netting $5,732 in budget deficits, city Finance Director Rachelle Arias said. The deficits usually reflect incomplete transactions and spending that will be reimbursed by funding agencies. "Next time, we'll be looking better," Arias said.
• City manager Mark Martinez reported that representatives of the planned "Bands of Enchantment" television show visited Tucumcari, which may host its headquarters, and were favorably impressed. An agreement is being worked out, he said, with only minor issues remaining.
• Martinez also reported underground electric service at Dunn Park is poor, which may delay new lighting at the park.
• Due to current upswings in COVID-19 cases, the city has shut down City Hall, the Tucumcari Public Library, the Tucumcari Historical Museum and the brush and tree trimming disposal area at Coronado Park, Martinez said.
• In response to a question from District 2 Commissioner Paul Villanueva, Martinez said city employees have been vigilant about wearing masks, especially when working within six feet of others.
• District 4 Commissioner Chris Arias reported the city may pay more to the Ute Lake Joint Powers Authority for services related to maintaining the city's 6,000 acre-feet due to cost increases. Martinez said the increases may total about $12,000 per year.
• Villanueva asked about pothole repairs. Martinez said the city is fulfilling as many pothole repair work orders as time allows.
