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1. What are the yellow signs all about?

Yellow Public Notice signs are posted 15-days prior to a scheduled meeting and are indications that the property owner is requesting some sort of review from the Planning Commission.  If you see a yellow sign and have interest regarding any development on the property, you are advised to safely pull-over to a location where the sign can be read.  It provides a brief summary of the request, applicant's name and meeting information.  Additionally, all meeting information is published in the Rio Grande Sun 15-days prior and posted within the city's website at a minimum of 72-hours prior.  Information can also be obtained by calling 505-747-6103.

2. Why was I not notified of a public hearing?

The applicant(s) is/are required to notify all property owners (as recorded with the county assessor) within 200' of the subject property.  The notification of the meeting date, time and location should be mailed at least 15-days prior to the public hearing.  Our ownership and mailing data is obtained through County records; therefore, if you are a property owner within 200' and did not receive a letter of notification, the County may have the incorrect mailing address.  Notification letters are sent to property owners - not tenants!

To provide notification to interested parties outside of the 200', notification requirements include the posting of a yellow Public Notice sign on the property, and publication of the request within the Rio Grande Sun, or other local newspaper of general circulation, at least 15-days prior to the scheduled meeting.  Agendas are also posted on the city's website at least 72-hours prior.

3. Can I appeal the Commission's decision?

Yes. Any party wanting to appeal the Commission's decision, shall file a written notice within 15-days following the date of action. The day following the meeting shall be the first day, and the 15-day period shall end at the close of business on the 15th day. The written notice should be filed with the Planning Department and shall suspend further action until the appeal is heard and acted upon.  The written appeal will be forwarded to the City Manager who will advise the City Council of the notice of appeal.  The City Council will then set a date for the public hearing. The appeal form is available here.

4. Will I be able to speak during the hearing?

Yes.  Public Hearings are held in a quasi-judicial manner with sworn testimony, consistent with the laws of New Mexico. The Chairman will open each case, after which the Staff and Applicant will present to the Commission and answer their questions. Neighboring Property owners and the general public are given opportunity to ask questions and make statements as well.

5. I have questions or concerns, but I cannot attend the meeting.

Your questions and concerns are important, and you have a right to be heard.  If you cannot attend the meeting, you can call one of the City Planners to ask questions and voice your concerns. You are also able to provide a written response to be forwarded to the Commission and included with the case file, but please note that written comments do not carry the same weight in the Public Hearing, unless you are also there to answer questions.