Mayor's Message for December 11th, 2020

Haslam Conservation Easement

It’s December in New Mexico – very cold followed by record highs and then snow. Never a dull moment. This weekend will be wintry and cold but bright and clear on Sunday.

The Corrales Community Library website offers a wealth of programming and opportunities. For example, check out “Upcoming Events” or the “Teen Page” to see volunteer programs for teens or to read winning poems from the “I Love to Write Poetry Contest.” Or join librarian Brynn Cole for some literary-inspired  cooking! (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1VPdpbdxUhBhRCx0LWYLNQ). The latest newsletter can be found below. Thank you librarians for your efforts to make us smarter and amuse us.

The Corrales Library Giving Tree may be virtual this year, but as in years past, you can contribute to your favorite part of the library collection. Be it DVDs, Children’s or Adult, your donation will pay for new materials in your chosen area. Now until January 15, visit  to give.

Holly Daze fundraiser/auction ends December 12th. It’s time to strike! www.visitcorrales.com

The Angel Road repaving is complete. Kudos to the Corrales Public Works Department.

Potential good financial news from the State. The budget shortfall may be a lot less than feared, allowing the state to avoid deep cuts. Also, contrary to earlier information, at least 370 million dollars in capital outlay money may be available. Municipalities are still asked to limit requests to 1-3, with priority going to ICIP projects/phases that can be completed and encumbered. For our Corrales Infrastructure Improvement Plan (ICIP), see Council Resolution 20-028.

The Village of Corrales has acquired a conservation easement of about 12 acres (with bird viewing platform), visible from two ditch banks and close to Corrales Road and Kings Road. This acreage will remain open/agricultural forever. The acquisition of the easement was made possible by the bond passed by 80% of you voters in spring of 2018. 

Village Councilor and Mayor Pro Tem David Dornburg has resigned because he is moving out of town. Rats! We will all miss his informed and level-headed approach, which has been invaluable to both Village Council and Village Staff. Thank you Councilor Dornburg. Under state law, the Mayor will now appoint a replacement, subject to Council approval, for the remainder of Councilor Dornburg’s term (3/22}. If you live in District 4 and are interested in being considered for the position of District 4 Councilor, please send a letter of interest to Village Clerk Aaron Gjullin at agjullin [at] corrales-nm.org. Not sure if you live in District 4? See the district map here:

COVID update. The NM 2-week reset got us both a lower rate of positivity and of spread. Still, Corrales is getting new cases - our count is now up to 142.  PLEASE STAY THE COURSE. Help yourself and your neighbors, your hospitals and your businesses. Wear a mask, avoid groups and gatherings, and unnecessary travel.  PLEASE GET A TEST. Go to cv.nmhealth.org or curative.com for details.

Oh yes, it’s happening. There will be a Corrales Holiday Light Display at 500 Jones Road from December 18 – December 28. No Bah Humbug for Corrales!

Thanks to municipal CARES money, cleaner and more effective flooring and air filtration systems are now in the Village Administration offices. A healthier environment awaits us.

All of the $255,000 small business CARES money is spoken for. However, other small business grants are available until December 18. Go to nmfinance.com.

Corrales Village employee videos – if you haven’t already,. It’s a heartfelt (and charming) “ask” from Village employees to stay safe and wear a mask to help protect them and you. Future departmental videos are also planned, which will help us better understand all that our departments do for us every day.

Bundle up and get out there this weekend. Or maybe stay inside, drink hot chocolate and enjoy holiday entertainment. Whether your sweet spot is Hallmark or football, please do it up Corrales-style.

Jo Anne Roake

Mayor of Corrales