As the November 5, General Election approaches, Cibola County voters will have the chance to weigh in on four General Obligation Bond questions that will help shape the future of state and local projects, specifically: senior citizen centers, libraries, higher education, and 911/emergency communications.
Bonds are considered long-term debt and are paid back by local area property taxes. Any bond that passes, even if it does not benefit Cibola County, will be paid back at least partially by taxpayers in Cibola County and all state property taxpayers.
For first-time voters, these can seem a little confusing, so let’s break down what these bonds mean specifically for Cibola County.
Bond Question 1: Senior Citizen Facilities
This bond, if approved, would allow the state to issue up to $30.8 million to improve senior citizen facilities statewide. In Cibola County, here’s where that money would go: Acoma Pueblo Senior Center: $10,000 for code compliance.
Acoma Pueblo Senior Center (Vehicle): $246,000 to improve transportation services.
To’Hajiilee Chapter Senior Center: $1.5 million for renovations.
To’Hajiilee Chapter Senior Center (Vehicle): $112,000 for vehicle purchases.
The Cibola Senior Citizen’s Center did not appear to make the list to receive any funding.
These funds will help maintain and improve senior centers, ensuring they meet safety standards, and provide better transportation options for seniors in our area. The bond would be paid back through property taxes over time, so this is an investment in our aging community.
Bond Question 2: Libraries
This bond would provide $19.3 million for libraries across New Mexico, funding the acquisition of resources for public, academic, and tribal libraries. Funding on the bond obligation sheet provided by the New Mexico State Legislature did not appear to show any line items specifically impacting Cibola County.
Bond Question 3: Higher Education
The third bond proposes issuing $230.3 million to improve higher education facilities across New Mexico. Cibola County would benefit because the question opens $3 million to NMSUGrants Campus to Upgrade Martinez Hall.
This money will help upgrade Martinez Hall at the New Mexico State University Grants campus, supporting students and faculty with better facilities and resources, potentially improving learning outcomes and campus life. Like the other bonds, the funds are repaid through property taxes.
Bond Question 4: Public Safety Radio Systems
This bond would issue $10.3 million to stabilize and modernize public safety radio communication systems statewide. While this is a statewide effort, it could improve emergency services and public safety in Cibola by making sure first responders have access to updated communication tools.
What You Should Know
If you vote FOR any of these bonds, you’re supporting the funding of these projects through the issuance of bonds, which are paid back via property taxes. If you vote AGAINST, you’re choosing not to support these bonds and the projects they would fund.
The decision you make on these questions will directly affect the local community.
Make sure you cast your vote and have your say in shaping the future of Cibola County. Early voting ends November 2.
Election Day is November 5. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.