On April 30th, the City Council held an emergency meeting to discuss what is called the Alamo Fire and its victims. It lasted about half an hour, which began with Councilor Fred Rodarte praying for those whose homes burnt down and thanking those who are helping.
The purpose of this meeting was to approve a resolution and determine if they would be allowed state funding.
The resolution declares Grants to be in a state of emergency, due to the east side wildfire, which destroyed multiple homes and, as of the 30th, was still under fire investigation.
Due to the anti-donation clause, the city is prohibited from donating or providing aid to individuals, except for in cases of emergency. This fire, causing the council to declare a state of emergency, qualifies, allowing the city to donate and provide aid.
Emergency Shelter has been provided at The Way, The Truth, and The Life Church. There, basic necessities are provided.
“Our heart and our prayers go out to all those affected.” Councilor Rodarte said.
This fire, though extinguished, could be a threat to health, safety, and welfare.
As of the 30th, this area was restricted, with the right of entry being given to police powers, city personnel, the fire department, and authorized contractors, allowed them to enter onto the affected private properties. Fire hotspots have been maintained and extinguished, and debris caused by this fire, along with hazardous material, has been removed. This restriction of access is to remain in effect until resolved by the Grants city council.
According to the fire Chief Mike Maes “We are currently in a burn ban.”
The fire began as a brush fire and it rapidly advanced. While the fire departments attempted to put out the fire, residents brought food, water, and snacks, and supported fire fighters on the ground by helping to pull the 5-inchthick hoses.
“Your selfless acts of kindness and bravery are a testament to the strength of this community.” Chief Maes stated “You are what makes this community a great place to call home and are appreciated more than we’ll ever be able to express.”
Councilor Zach Gutierrez said “People showed up when [they were] needed most. I am thankful for [you,] chief [and] your crew. Thank you to everyone in this community that is helped out… it makes me feel proud of where we come from.”
Councilor Beverly Michael recalled the stories she heard of how quickly everyone was evacuated. “That was what saved lives.”
According to Chief Maes, those who assisted either in dealing with the fire or aiding the victims include: Fire departments: Grants fire and rescue, administrative assistance Jessica Venable, Cibola County Fire command, Milan volunteer fire department, Bluewater village fire department, San Rafael volunteer fire department, Cubero volunteer fire department, and Mount Taylor Ranger District.
Law enforcement: Grants police department, New Mexico State police, Milan police department, Cibola county sheriff’s office, and Cibola County communication center.
City entities: Red Cross, Continental Divide, New Mexico Gas, New Mexico Forestry, Cibola County road department, Cibola County buildings and grounds department, Grants Public streets, parks, maintenance, and water department, Cibola County Chaplains, Cibola county manager Kate Fletcher, Grants City manager Andrew Valencia Businesses: Route 66 Towing, Knights of Columbus, McDonald’s, Dominos, Pizza 9, Smiths, and Walmart.
Churches: Potters House and The Way, the Truth, and Life.
On the scene of the fire, there were twenty-three units, forty-one personnel, two graters, and a backhoe.
Chief Maes said “I would apologize if I missed anybody. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the many citizens and community members who stepped forward during the emergency.” He also highlighted the importance of agreements between different departments, which allows them to help each other more efficiently, because mutual aid is important.
Councilor George Garcia told him “You guys are the tip of the spear in the county for this stuff. I was grateful to see Milan and Bluewater, everyone came out. It was just a great outpouring in the community. And we do need to continue to help those families rebuild. Now it is setting in on them and reality is going to hit them.”
Additionally, this fire emphasizes the threat of wildfires, chief Maes said “I thank every first responder, supporting agency, and citizen who stood together to protect our community.”
Councilor Michael stated, “The support from the community and how everyone came together is wonderful.”