Archive for July 8, 2008
A POX ON A TAXING SITUATION … I MEAN TO SAY, “MORE THAN ONE”
by Chuck Ring
As things roll along, or not, in the transportation sector, it has just been announced that Santa Fe County and its partner in taxing (the City of Santa Fe) will pull out or have already pulled out of the North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD). So, while the NCRTD has at least one flat tire an official press release from Santa Fe County explains how Santa Fe County and the City of Santa Fe will jack-up transportation while possibly hijacking Edgewood and the southern part of the county:
“Santa Fe County Withdraws from Transit District
Santa Fe – July 7, 2008 – The Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners has voted to withdraw from the North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD). “We believe there are better ways to provide for Santa Fe County’s transportation needs” said Commission Chair, Paul Campos. »» A POX ON A TAXING SITUATION … I MEAN TO SAY, “MORE THAN ONE”
Edgewood Attorney: Town Can Fund Events, Festivals Without Violating Anti-Donation Clause
by John Weckerle
At the July 2, 2008 Edgewood Town Council Meeting, Town attorney Marcus Rael provided insight into whether the Town can legally contribute to such events as the Wildlife West Music Festival; Run, Rally, and Rock; and other smaller events held throughout the year.
According to Mr. Rael, the Town may fund, or partner with, other entities, nonprofit or otherwise, to produce such events for economic benefit or other purposes. He indicated that a detailed scope of work and accounting of the expenditures of the Town’s contribution are critical to avoiding anti-donation clause violations. Mr. Rael emphasized the importance of documenting the potential benefits (for example, increased gross receipts tax revenues from people purchasing gas, groceries, etc. on the day of the event) of contributing to such events. He also indicated that it would be appropriate for the Town to issue an RFP for managing events. Mr. Rael did not offer any specific recommendations on how to fund the events, which some understood to be the intended purpose of his discussion. »» Edgewood Attorney: Town Can Fund Events, Festivals Without Violating Anti-Donation Clause
Flea Market To Benefit Wildlife West
by John Weckerle
A flea market featuring items donated to support Wildlife West Nature Park and ease the distress created by the Town of Edgewood’s decision to eliminate funding for the annual music festival will be held in the Liberty Development (old Radio Shack building) parking lot on Saturday, July 19, from 7 a.m. to noon. The Park is also holding a raffle of several special items including a “nearly new” (used twice) electric motor and an electric wheelbarrow, both donated by Howard Calkins; a recliner valued at $500 donated by the Furniture Connection; and a calf donated by Rita Loy Simmons. For more information and to purchase raffle tickets, contact the Park at 505-281-7655, toll free at 877-981-9453, or by e-mail at info@wildlifewest.org.
Mountainair Community Garden Project
by John Weckerle
Vanessa from Mountainair Arts has given us a “heads up” on a community garden project that is in the planning stage in Mountainair. The project is an effort of iCreate, Inc., a volunteer organization that relocated from the Rio Grande Valley to Mountainair in early 2008.
Community gardens vary widely in scope and focus. Many are dedicated to producing food, but there are some that are focused on flowers or intended to provide forage for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. According to some articles, community gardens may also promote a greater and more active sense of community. Educational gardens may provide valuable training for children or adults who wish to gain the necessary skills before starting their own home gardens. The concepts of “food security” and maintaining control over quality and health effects can also be addressed, at least in part, by community gardening. More information can be found at:
- Wikipedia
- The American Community Gardening Association
- How to Start A Community Garden on a Vacant Lot
- iVillage Garden Web Forum
- University of California Cooperative Extension – contains a good start-up guide.
More links can be found at Mountainair Arts.