Successful cities invest in themselves

Successful cities invest in themselves by building infrastructure that benefits people, quality of life, and the economy. That
is what the city’s general obligation bond program is designed to do – provide much needed funding to build capital
projects to enhance our City. On November 8th, voters will get a chance to approve four City general obligation bond
projects. A yes vote will enhance the public safety, health and wellness, and economic well-being of Las Cruces residents
by building a new fire station, improving parks and the East Mesa Public Recreation Center, and constructing more housing
that is affordable. A yes vote will not increase your property tax rates.

I’ve been thinking a lot about what more affordable and attainable housing could mean for Las Cruces. The median sale
price for a home is $285,000. That is unattainable for many working families, single parents, seniors and veterans on fixed
income, and millennials. We know homeownership is fundamental to building family wealth. We know a safe, stable and
affordable home is a foundation for physical and mental well-being, and success in education and work. We want a
community where our children can afford a home to start their own families. We need more entry-level housing now so our
community can thrive.

A yes vote for an affordable housing bond will provide $6 million to match funding from private developers and non-profit
partners to help us build a community where we all have the opportunity for a better life, starting with a roof over our
heads.