A winter storm watch is in effect from Saturday night through Monday morning.
The latest we’ve heard is that this weekend’s storm has the potential to be some of the most severe weather we’ve seen in several years. Heavy snow and visibility close to zero may make travel nearly impossible at times. Some road closures are expected. Lows on Friday night and into Saturday morning are expected to be between 14 and 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour on Sunday may put wind child readings of -20 to -30 Fahrenheit.
Please take all necessary preparations for property and pets today. Stock up on all necessary supplies. If you have to travel anywhere, make sure your vehicle is full of gas and bring extra jackets, blankets and other cold protection. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged.
Monday (President’s Day) is a regular day for the City of Carlsbad, though we are certainly taking extra precautions. We are planning normal solid waste pickup. Our transit system still plans to run on Monday but may experience some delays due to the weather and road conditions. We will post any other updates we have on the City’s Facebook page and relay them to local media outlets.
We wish to offer our condolences again to the many grieving family and friends of Officer Darian Jarrott, especially the members of Officer Jarrott’s family who live here in Carlsbad. A memorial has been set up for the State Police Officer at 305 East Fiesta. Residents are leaving flowers and cards to show their support for the officer and his family. Jarrott was laid to rest on Friday in Lordsburg. This is a tragic loss for all of New Mexico.
Many of you are following a number of the bills in this year’s legislative session that could have a major impact on Carlsbad if they pass. Add to your list a proposal calling for the creation of a state-owned public bank. We have serious concerns that this bill would make things much more difficult on our community banks, who employ local residents and invest in local projects. Our local banks also sponsor community activities and little league teams. Locally-owned businesses, including banks, have already been through a lot over the past years, and we should be looking for ways to support them.
Renee Madrid and her staff at the Riverwalk Recreation Center have prepared a number of prize bags for visitors to the center. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with COVID-19 safe measures in place and a limited attendance. The prize bags include puzzles, games and Valentine’s goodies, but supplies are limited.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway