Homeless Outreach Program to See Expansion

Las Cruces City Council met in regular session on Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, and approved a resolution that will lead to the expansion of the Mesilla Valley Community of Hope’s Homeless Outreach Program.

The Homeless Outreach Program was first funded in fiscal year 2021 to support Las Cruces residents who face financial hardships brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The expansion of the Homeless Outreach Program will help reach unhoused individuals who are not aware of, or do not have transportation to, services at the Community of Hope campus. The program will provide transportation to services, day shelter, referrals to housing, social services, and employment-related opportunities.

Funding had already been allocated for the program’s expansion. Monday’s vote gave the City Manager the authority to amend the contract with the Community of Hope.

City Council also unanimously approved a Community Development Block Grant agreement with Jardin de los Niños for a roof replacement project.

The building that houses Jardin is City-owned and in need of a new roof. The estimated replacement cost is $650,000. Jardin has been awarded $250,000 in New Mexico Capital Outlay funds for the project and, on Monday, the City approved $278,500 in Community Development Block Grant funds for the project.

The estimated $121,000 still needed for the roof replacement project is still being sought by Jardin. There may be budget adjustments within the City that could help close the funding gap.

Jardin de los Niños, founded in 1994, provides childcare and education services to children ages six to 10 years and their families.

Also, during Monday’s meeting, Councilors approved three public art projects: at the East Mesa Public Recreation Complex; at Fire Station 1; and at Fire Station 6. Funds for public art come from the GO Bond two percent allocation designated for same purpose public art projects as mandated by the public art funding ordinance.

The East Mesa Public Recreation Complex, located off Sonoma Springs Avenue, received 155 applications for its public art project. The City Art Board recommended the project go to artist James Moore’s sculpture titled, “Dance of Life.” Budget for the project is approximately $100,000.

Councilors unanimously approved that recommendation along with artwork at Fire Station 1, budgeted at $25,000 for an illuminated Maltese Cross created by artist Jason Butler, and a stainless-steel sculpture to be created by Trevor O’Tool at Fire Station 6. That project is budgeted for $75,000.

Due to the Indigenous Peoples’ Day holiday, Las Cruces City Council will next meet in a work session at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at Council Chambers, 700 N. Main St. All City Council meetings and work sessions can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel.