The state’s newest professional hockey franchise revealed its official identity Monday, unveiling the New Mexico Goatheads name and brand as the ECHL team prepares for its 2026-27 inaugural season at Rio Rancho Events Center. The Goatheads name pays homage to New Mexico’s rugged landscape and the notorious goathead thorn, a hardy desert plant known for […]
Rio Rancho
Posted inRio Rancho
Solar farm approved in Rio Rancho despite approval process concerns
The Rio Rancho City Council voted Thursday to approve a renewable energy project that would place thousands of solar panels on 80 acres of state trust land in the northern part of the city, despite criticism from some residents about the developer’s business practices. The council voted 5-1 to approve both a master plan amendment […]
Posted inLocal Gov., Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho plans roundabout for Sara Road-Meadowlark Lane intersection
A virtual public meeting will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 8, at 6 p.m. to discuss reconstruction plans for Sara Road and Meadowlark Lane, including the proposed installation of a roundabout at their intersection. The project aims to improve roadway conditions, enhance pedestrian access and upgrade utilities along the corridor, according to meeting organizers. The […]
Posted inLocal Gov., Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho City Council to consider renewable energy projects
The Rio Rancho City Council will consider two renewable energy proposals and several budget adjustments during its regular meeting on Thursday at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers. The council will hold public hearings on two related items concerning the Loma Barbon area. The first involves amending the Loma Barbon Master Plan to add a renewable […]
Posted inRio Rancho
First hat hits Rio Rancho ring
Michael Meek has jumped early into the Rio Rancho mayor’s race. Meek, who chairs the Sandoval County Board of Commissioners, has declared he will seek to replace Gregg Hull next year as leader of what might already be New Mexico’s second-largest city. He has lived in Rio Rancho since 1990, and served in the city […]
Posted inFood, Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho to host annual Food Truck Fiesta at Cabezon Park
The City of Rio Rancho will host its annual Food Truck Fiesta and Fall Market on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cabezon Park. The free community event will feature local food trucks, craft vendors and entertainment for all ages. Awards will be presented to top food vendors in selected categories. […]
Posted inEvents, Rio Rancho
Raise your steins!
If green chile schnitzel exists, it will probably be available Saturday in Rio Rancho. It’s time for Rio Rancho Oktoberfest, a tradition in the city for about three decades. The theme for this year is “Órale Prost,” a combination of Spanish and German interjections commonly used to convey positive feelings. The Rio Rancho Regional Chamber […]
Posted inRio Rancho
Rio Rancho Public Schools’ first and only superintendent announces retirement
The longest-serving superintendent in New Mexico announced her retirement Wednesday morning after more than three decades leading Rio Rancho Public Schools since its founding. Dr. V. Sue Cleveland will step down later this school year, with a leadership transition expected in spring 2026, the Rio Rancho Board of Education announced in a joint statement. The […]
Posted inLocal Gov., Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho council approves police union contract worth $1.4 million
The Rio Rancho City Council unanimously approved a three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Rio Rancho Police and Communications Association on Thursday, authorizing $950,390 in additional funding for fiscal year 2026 to cover enhanced benefits and pay increases. The contract, which runs from Sept. 22, through June 30, 2028, affects 187 bargaining unit positions within […]
Posted inLocal Gov., Rio Rancho
Rio Rancho council approves controversial Chamisa Hills development after community outreach
The Rio Rancho City Council unanimously approved the Chamisa Hills master development plan Thursday night, marking a dramatic turnaround for a project that faced fierce opposition just four months ago. The six-member council’s affirmation came after extensive community outreach efforts by developer Steve Chavez and his team, who revised their original proposal following harsh criticism […]