Posted inCounty Government, East Mountains, Uncategorized

BernCo’s newest chair looks to balance focus on ‘both sides of the mountain’

By Rodd Cayton Newly elected Bernalillo County Commission Chair Eric Olivas says his priorities will largely lie in what the entire county is looking at. Olivas, elected in 2022, served as vice chair last year. He represents District 5, which includes Uptown Albuquerque and the East Mountains. “The commission has been very clear with our […]

Posted inCounty Government, East Mountains, Uncategorized

Los Vecinos CC to Get a New Skate Park

By The Independent Staff At its Jan. 14 meeting, the Bernalillo County Commission approved construction to rebuild the Los Vecinos Community Center Skate Park. Chair Eric Olivas sponsored the initiative, which was funded through the county’s general funds. This project aims to replace the current modular metal skate park with a new poured-in-place skate park […]

Posted inCounty Government, East Mountains, Uncategorized

Pot policy change, salary hikes approved by BernCo commissioners

Bernalillo County employees are now free to use cannabis when off duty. County commissioners voted Tuesday to approve changes in the drug-free workplace policy that essentially treat employees’ cannabis use the same way as alcohol use is regulated. Commission Vice Chair Eric Olivas sponsored the change. He said it’s a matter of personal liberty for […]

Posted inCounty Government, East Mountains, Uncategorized

East Mountain community celebrates outstanding citizens

Bernalillo County hosted the East Mountain community for a party at Vista Grande Community Center in Sandia Park on Sept. 22. The 2024 East Mountain Celebration centered around the themes of “Fire Safety and Awareness” and “First Responder Appreciation,” bringing the community together for a day of fun, entertainment and education. Bernalillo County Fire & […]

Posted inCounty Government, East Mountains, Uncategorized

Are fluoride levels in ABQ’s water safe?

According to new research, extreme levels of fluoride in drinking water could be associated with lower IQ in children, but according to local water officials, Albuquerque and Bernalillo County’s fluoride levels are still safe for residents. In its “Monograph on the State of Science Concerning Fluoride Exposure and Neurodevelopment and Cognition,” the National Toxicology Program, […]

Posted inCounty Government, East Mountains, Uncategorized

Bernalillo County breaks ground on Los Vecinos Community Center

Bernalillo County broke ground Sept. 19 on the next phase of renovations at Los Vecinos Community Center in Tijeras.  According to a press release from the county, the event celebrated the start of several improvements, including a new multisport court, new playing fields, a new stage and other special events amenities, a new skate park, […]