Mountainair Town Council Addresses Arson, Public Safety Concerns
The Mountainair Town Council held its regular meeting on January 6, 2026, with a full quorum present, opening with a moment of silence for longtime community member Sammy Archuleta.
Much of the meeting focused on a series of fires that have occurred in and around Mountainair over the past year, as well as broader public safety concerns raised by residents.
Fire Investigations and Community Concerns
Fire Chief Josh Archuleta reported that the Mountainair Fire Department responded to 15 calls in December, bringing the department’s total for 2025 to 204 calls, with 192 responses. He noted the department continues to stay busy and is working closely with state investigators.
Flint Kesterson, a fire investigator with the New Mexico State Fire Marshal’s Office, provided a detailed overview of several fires investigated in Mountainair since June. Kesterson stated that three earlier fires, including the Ranger Station Road fire and a railroad-area fire, were ruled incendiary, meaning they were intentionally set. Two arrests were made in connection with the Ranger Station fire.
Kesterson emphasized that determining the origin and cause of fires is complex. He stated that fewer than 1% of arson cases nationwide result in prosecution. He also addressed rumors about a recent structure fire on Alabaster Road, stating that the fire was ruled accidental and originated in the residence’s kitchen.
Several residents spoke during the discussion, sharing personal experiences and frustrations related to fires, insurance denials, and fears about ongoing safety in town. Officials encouraged residents with information related to fires to contact local law enforcement or the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Police, EMS, and Public Works Reports
Police Chief Paul Lucero reported a significant decrease in calls for service, with 38 calls recorded in December, compared to more than 100 per month earlier in the year. He noted that felony charges were filed in connection with three burglaries and that assistance from the Estancia Police Department led to three arrests.
EMS Chief Josh Lewis reported that Mountainair EMS responded to 369 of 410 calls in 2025, a 90 percent response rate, marking a significant improvement from previous years. He also noted the department is seeking to replace an ambulance that logged more than 21,000 miles in 2025.
Public Works Supervisor Carl Archuleta reported on water and sewer repairs, road grading efforts, and routine maintenance conducted during the holiday period.
Policy Changes and Major Approvals
The council began discussion on a proposed revision to the town’s sick leave policy, which would transition sick leave to a paid time off (PTO) system and revise accrual methods. The item was tabled to allow councilors additional time to review the proposed changes.
Councilors approved $33,279 for the purchase of personal protective equipment for the fire department, which will outfit additional firefighters with updated bunker and wildland gear.
The council also approved entering into a five-year contract for upgraded printer and copier services at Town Hall, citing efficiency, cost tracking, and security improvements.
As part of the organizational business following the election cycle, the council voted to reappoint Mary Zamora as town clerk and Paul Lucero as police chief. Gayle Jones was reappointed as mayor pro tem, and the council approved Resolution 2026-01 establishing Open Meetings Act procedures for the year.
Public Comment Highlights Safety Concerns
During public comment, multiple residents raised concerns about late-night activity, property damage, and the lack of overnight police coverage. Town officials acknowledged the concerns but cited budget constraints and staffing challenges as barriers to 24-hour patrols.
Mayor Peter Nieto emphasized his belief in the importance of community cooperation and communication, stating that while the town continues to work with county and state agencies, solving ongoing issues will require residents’ participation and provision of information.