HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-08-13 Town Council Emergency Minutes i
MINUTES
Town Council Emergency Meeting
Virtual Meeting
August 13, 2021
4:00 P.M.
(Note: Meeting was conducted in accordance with the Attorney General's guidelines and
observed the Governor's executive orders and the Secretary of Health's public health orders.)
1. Opening Items
A. Call to Order by the Honorable Mayor Daniel R. Barrone.
The Honorable Mayor Daniel R. Barrone called the meeting to order at 4:02 p.m.
B. Roll Call
Ms. Francella Garcia, Town Clerk called roll and a quorum was present.
Those present were:
Mayor Daniel R. Barrone (left meeting at 6:02 p.m.)
Mayor Pro Tem, Nathaniel Evans
Councilmember, Darien D. Fernandez
Councilmember, George "Fritz" Hahn
Councilmember, Pascualito Maestas
Also present were:
Town Manager, Richard Bellis
Town Clerk, Francella Garcia
Legal Counsel, Nancy Long
Absent/Excused was:
Town Attorney, Stephen C. Ross
C. Pledge of Allegiance
Councilmember Hahn led the Pledge of Allegiance.
D. Moment of Silence
Page 1 of 7
Moment of Silence was observed, and a brief period of reflection was made by Mayor
Barrone.
E. Approval of Agenda
Town Manager Richard Bellis requested a brief Closed Executive Session be moved
before Agenda Item 4.A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of Resolution
21-41 to adopt an emergency public health order relating to the COVID-19 pandemic and
the public health and safety of the community. Mr. Bellis further added Holy Cross
Medical Center Emergency Manager David Elliot is also in attendance to address the
Council before adopting the emergency public health order resolution.
Legal Counsel Nancy Long advised that if the Closed Executive Session is for the
matters stated on the agenda, there is authority to do so. In terms of discussing the
emergency resolution, she does not see the authority for the Council to go into Closed
Executive Session on this matter.
Closed Executive Session was not conducted.
Councilmember Evans made a motion to amend agenda item 2.A to include an
update by Holy Cross Medical Center Emergency Manager David
Elliot. Councilmember Hahn seconded the motion. The motion passed. The
Councilmembers voted as follows: Ayes: Evans, Fernandez, Hahn, Masetas.
2. Matters and Reports from the Town Manager
A. Coronavirus update by Town Manager Richard Bellis and GIS Analyst Tim
Corner.
Note: Agenda Item was amended to include an update by Holy Cross Medical
Center Emergency Manager David Elliot.
GIS Analyst Tim Corner presented the Town of Taos COVID-19 update to the governing
body. Mr. Corner reported the following:
• Nationally, cases were up 26% in the last seven days, 38% in New Mexico and
350% in Taos County;
• The average daily case count in New Mexico increased to 597 cases per day last
week. Above the state's most recent target of 210. Having reached a recent low of
58 on June 30, 2021;
• Current hospitalizations increased, the 7-day average is 241. Having reached a
recent low of 67 on July 7, 2021;
• Average deaths per day in NM increased to 3 per day. Having reached a recent low
of 1 on June 29, 2021;
• There were 27 new cases in Taos County last week, up from 6 the week before.
Bringing the total to 1,835;
• There were no additional deaths reported among Taos County residents last week.
The total remains at 56;
• Testing in Taos County has increased to a 7-day average of 87 tests per day; and
Page 2 of 7
• Taos County's crude positivity rate is 3.7% (14-day avg). The crude case rate is 2.4
cases per day (14-day avg), below the old gating target of 3.28. Taos County's
adult fully vaccinated rate is 78%.
Holy Cross Medical Center Emergency Manager David Elliot stated the return of the
mask mandate is not due to COVID-19; the order is because of the Delta and
Lambda variants of the virus. Mr. Elliot emphasized the virus variants are a challenge the
community has not faced before. Safety measures need to be imposed to keep people
safe regardless of their opinions on the danger of the disease itself.
Mr. Elliot discussed the challenges hospitals and healthcare systems face across the
country due to the virus.
Mr. Elliot stated Taos needs to lead the way again, as they have been, on keeping
people safe. Seventy-five percent of the Taos County population are vaccinated from the
virus; however, over a thousand young people in Taos County are unvaccinated. He
further added he supports a mask mandate that would help people make the right
decision.
Mr. Elliot provided an update of COVID-19 testing locations and where the public can
receive updates on COVID-19 variants.
3. Matters and Reports from the Mayor
Mayor Barrone did not have any matters to report.
4. Matters from Staff
A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of Resolution 21-41 to adopt
an Emergency Public Health Order Relating to the COVID Pandemic and the Public
Health and Safety of the Community.
Mr. Bellis read into the record the Proclamation of Civil Emergency and
proposed Resolution 21-41 to adopt an Emergency Public Health Order Relating to the
COVID Pandemic and the Public Health and Safety.
The following changes were made to proposed Resolution 21-41.
• The second Wheras, to read - nearly every state, including New Mexico, are seeing
a rapid increase in new cases and hospitalizations at rates that have not been seen
since February and that, in many cases are breaking all records for the
pandemic; (Mr. Bellis)
• The eighth Whereas, to read - the Town and residents of Taos have done an
outstanding job of keeping the original pandemic under control and have through
great effort at testing, masking, vaccinating and having taken reasonable
precautions fared better than nearly all states and most counties in New Mexico,
allowing us to resume a more normal life sooner and in more ways and the Town
wishes to preserve those hard fought gains through minimally intrusive basic
preventive measures; (Mr. Bellis)
Page 3 of 7
• The eleventh Whereas, include - the CDC has upgraded its recommendations on
masks requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated persons when indoors in
public places; and
• The tenth Whereas include gyms; (Councilmember Evans)
• An additional Whereas relating to acting early is a regional approach to protect the
hospital; (Councilmember Evans)
• Replace the word telephonic with electronic on Item No. 4, page 3; (Mr. Bellis)
• Replace "All Town employees shall be vaccinated" to "All vaccinated Town
employees" Item 5. a; (Councilmember Evan and Councilmember Hahn)
• Include in the resolution that businesses who do not follow the public health order
are ineligible to apply for financial assistance; (Councilmember Maestas)
• Item 5.g remove Resolution 18-27; (Mr. Bellis) and
• Item 5.c include language, "unless a safety plan has been presented and approved
by the Town"; (Councilmember Hahn)
Discussion ensued on Town events that would be canceled and whether concerts and
other community events should also be canceled contingent upon the public health
orders.
Mr. Bellis recommended passing the resolution, communicating the Town's concerns
with the vendors, and giving the vendor a reasonable idea of the minimum threshold they
will have to meet to have the event, even if things do not progress. He further
recommended the vendor submit their safety plans to the Town for review and approval
before the event. Mr. Bellis stated the proposed emergency resolution would take effect
on Friday, August 20, 2021, allowing the public time to comply with the emergency public
health order.
Councilmember Fernandez recommended the governing body meet weekly to assess
the situation and review event safety plans.
Mayor Barrone concurred to having weekly council meetings.
Councilmember Fernandez asked whether the Town can mandate people to be
vaccinated for COVID-19 when attending any event held on Town property.
Mayor Barrone stated the only setback is there is no vaccine for the youth ages twelve
and younger. He asked Ms. Long whether the Town can mandate COVID vaccinations.
Town Attorney Nancy Long stated what is seen is mandating vaccinations or a COVID
negative test within a certain period of time, which is something the Town could
consider to continue the events.
Councilmember Evans stated the emergency public health order resolution is a working
document. He suggested moving forward with the recommendations made and have
further discussion at the meeting scheduled next week.
Discussion ensued on other state's regulatory statutes mandating vaccinations.
Page 4 of 7
Councilmember Evans reiterated the emergency public health order resolution is a
working document and suggested that the Council consider requiring COVID-19
vaccinations to attend ticketed events at the next Town Council Meeting.
Councilmember Evans proposed moving forward with the recommendations made by Mr.
Bellis and the Council.
Mr. Bellis stated staff will provide a list of all events. Every event is different; therefore,
staff will inform the Council of the areas of concern, assess how the Town can help these
organizations, and come back to the Council with suggestions.
Councilmember Maestas recommended the Town require a bond for larger events.
If guidelines are not adhered to, the bond would not be returned to the promoter.
Councilmember Maestas stated he agrees to meet once a week and would like the
Council to address the large events.
Mr. Bellis stated Facilities and Special Events Director Mitch Miller and his department
will screen applications and make their recommendations to the Town Manager.
Additionally, the staffs recommendations will be reviewed by the Emergency
Management Team. Once the event safety plan is vetted, staff will make their
recommendations to the Council.
Councilmember Evans made a motion to approve this resolution. Councilmember
Fernandez seconded the motion with discussion.
Councilmember Fernandez asked how the Town will enforce the emergency public
health order.
Mr. Bellis stated electronic display boards would be placed at the entrances to the Town.
Every business will have a sign with a Town seal indicating that everyone must wear a
mask when entering, along with the penalties. Furthermore, he along with the animal
control officer, parking patrol officers, planning and zoning senior planner will patrol for
violations. Mr. Bellis emphasized from prior experience the Town will make the rules
clear from the beginning.
(Mayor Barrone left the meeting at 6:02 p.m.)
Discussion ensued on the actions the Town will impose for businesses that do not
comply with the emergency public health order.
Councilmember Hahn requested the word "unless" be inserted on 5.b and 5.e.
Councilmember Evans stated his original motion includes the amendments and
requested a friendly second. Councilmember Fernandez friendly seconded the
motion.
Councilmember Fernandez stated he wants a commitment from the Council to
meet weekly to review the emergency public health order and requested assurance that
the Town is not putting out-of-town promoter's interests over the health and safety
needs of the community.
Page 5 of 7
At the request of Councilmember Hahn, Mr. Bellis provided an update on
safety procedures to be implemented at the swimming pool and the Taos Public Library
and on the Taos County pandemic action plans. Mr. Bellis stated he will notify the
Council on Monday to confirm whether there is a need to meet next week to review the
emergency public health order and event safety plans.
Mr. Bellis recommended for legal purposes the motion be amended to approve
Resolution 21-41 and reaffirming the Mayor's Emergency Proclamation and the
additional actions recommended by the Council within the resolution, including
all amendments.
Councilmember Evans amended his motion as recommended by Mr.
Bellis. Councilmember Fernandez friendly seconded the motion. The motion
passed. The Councilmembers voted as follows: Ayes: Evans, Fernandez, Hahn,
Maestas.
Mr. Elliot stated this is a good start. It gives people an opportunity to make a plan to be
safe during a pandemic.
5. Closed Executive Session
Closed Executive Session was not conducted.
A. The Council may conduct a Closed Executive Session to engage in a discussion
of matters subject to the attorney-client privilege pertaining to threatened or
pending litigation in which the Town is or may become a participant pursuant to
NMSA 1978 Section 10-15-1(H)(7); to discuss purchase, acquisition or disposal of
real property or water rights pursuant to NMSA 1978, Section 10-15-1(H)(8); and/or
to discuss limited personnel matters limited to discussion of the hiring, promotion,
demotion, dismissal, assignment or resignation of a Town employee or the
investigation or consideration of complaints or charges against a Town employee
pursuant to NMSA 1978 Section 10-15-1-(H)(2).
B. Attorney's Report Concerning Closed Executive Session
C. Action on items discussed in Closed Executive Session (as necessary, by
motion.)
6. Adjourn
A motion was made by Councilmember Maestas and seconded by
Councilmember Hahn to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously
and the meeting adjourned at 6:16 p.m.
Page 6 of 7
APPROVED:
4eIB4arrone r
ATTEST:
Erancella R. Garcia, Town Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: The Town of Taos video records all Regular, Workshop and
Special Town Council Meetings. Videos can be viewed and downloaded from the
Town's website at www.taosgov.com under the Town Clerk's tab. Citizens may
also request a copy of a video for $5 per video via the online public records portal
also located under the Town Clerk's tab on the Town's website. Additionally, the
website provides access to view agendas, back-up documentation and minutes.
Page 7 of 7
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II
Friday, August 13, 2021
Town Council Emergency Meeting
4:00 p.m.
VIRTUAL MEETING
NOTE: This virtual meeting will follow the Attorney General's guidelines and observe the
Governor's executive orders and the Secretary of Health's public health orders. The
electronic format will allow the Town Council to conduct the meeting without being
physically present and in accordance with the New Mexico Open Meetings Act. There will be
no live audience nor officials present at the Council Chambers. This is entirely a virtual
meeting. Members of the public wishing to participate can Livestream the meeting or view
it in archived format on the Town's website taosgov.com. -
https://www.taosgov.com/259/Public-Meetings---Live-Archive. Those wishing to
comment before or during the meeting may submit comments or questions to Town Clerk
Francella Garcia at fgarcia@taosgov.com
1. Opening Items
A. Call to Order by the Honorable Mayor Daniel R. Barrone.
B. Roll Call
C. Pledge of Allegiance
D. Moment of Silence
E. Approval of Agenda
2. Matters and Reports from the Town Manager
A. Coronavirus update by Town Manager Richard Bellis and GIS Analyst Tim Corner.
3. Matters and Reports from the Mayor
4. Matters from Staff
A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of Resolution 21-41 to adopt an emergency public health
order relating to the COVID pandemic and the public health and safety of the community.
5. Closed Executive Session
A. The Council may conduct a Closed Executive Session to engage in a discussion of matters subject to the
attorney-client privilege pertaining to threatened or pending litigation in which the Town is or may become a
participant pursuant to NMSA 1978 Section 10-15-1(H)(7); to discuss purchase, acquisition or disposal of
real property or water rights pursuant to NMSA 1978, Section 10-15-1(H)(8); and/or to discuss limited
personnel matters limited to discussion of the hiring, promotion, demotion, dismissal, assignment or
resignation of a Town employee or the investigation or consideration of complaints or charges against a
Town employee pursuant to NMSA 1978 Section 10-15-1-(H)(2).
B. Attorney's Report Concerning Closed Executive Session
C. Action on items discussed in Closed Executive Session (as necessary, by motion.)
Page 1 of 2
6. Adjourn
Page 2 of 2
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
PROCLAMATION OF CIVIL EMERGENCY
I, Daniel R. Barrone, as the duly elected and sworn Mayor of the Town of Taos,hereby do invoke
those powers vested in the Office of the Mayor under Chapter 2.04 CIVIL EMERGENCIES of the
Town Code and upon consultation with the Town Manager and Code Official, Police Chief and
Fire Chief, as well as the recommendation of the Town's Emergency Management Team, and
consistent with the Town's adopted Pandemic Response Plan do declare, that a civil emergency
exists, as defined in Section 2.04.010 of the Town Code (as outlined in but not restricted to
2.04.010C.), and, consistent with those powers therein granted under Section 2.04.020 (and more
specifically in but not limited to 2.04.020. G.), do declare as follows:
1. A PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY EMERGENCY EXISTS:
That, despite outstanding efforts at vaccination, testing,masking, and social distancing by
the Town and its residents to control and reduce the prevalence of the COVID-19 virus,
a. That, several more contagious variants of the COVID-19 virus have developed.
b. That, states and counties around us are experiencing both a rate of new cases and
hospitalizations not seen since last February, and in some cases since the outbreak.
c. That, we are a tourism and second home community and our experience with the
pandemic to-date has taught us that the despite our best efforts to contain or eliminate
the virus here,it travels with visitors that come here and our residents that travel outside
the area and return.
d. That, children under 12 may be particularly susceptible as they cannot get vaccinated
and the variants seem to be more effective in infecting them than the original virus.
e. That,this is occurring at a time that we are returning to school, going into the fall when
viruses tend to spread more effectively and we are already seeing increased levels of
childhood respiratory illnesses other than COVID that usually do not occur in this
frequency at this time of year.
f. That,we have one hospital in our community with limited capacity that serves an entire
region and can become overloaded very quickly, leading to a decline in the availability
and level of care and bed space available to our residents at a time when other regional
hospitals will be unable to accept out-of-area transfers.
g. That, our local, state and national health care system is already worn thin on staffing
and suffering burn-out and COVID fatigue even before another crises might arise and
may not be able to be as resilient as our last effort.
h. That, as Mayor, our Town government is fully committed to keeping our economy as
open as possible for as long as possible,to being welcoming to all visitors and allowing
our arts and entertainment community, galleries and restaurants to be able to do
business, our children to return to school and participate in sports, and for our
community to lead as normal a life as possible.
i. That,to achieve these goals for the long-term,we must take very reasonable preventive
and precautionary measures early on, as we did at the start of this pandemic, that will
protect the health and safety of our businesses, our elderly, our children, our first
responders, health care workers and essential employees in our businesses so that we
can remain open for business and have as normal a life as possible and not be forced
later due to inaction to return to more restrictive measures, such as closures or shut
downs, that hurt our economy and our people.
j. That, as Mayor, I have been contacted by the Office of the Governor of the State of
New Mexico and asked to help take the lead at the local level in instituting preventive
measures to help slow the surge of the virus variants within the state using reasonable
precautions that will create a firewall to preserve the gains we have made to date over
other states and other parts of the state.
k. That, the resurgence of the pandemic and the development of and increasing surge by
the Delta and Lamda variants of the COVID-19 virus pandemic do constitute a natural
disaster through a public health and safety crises endangering life(health)and property
(economy) to such extent that extraordinary measures must be taken to protect the
public health, safety and welfare of the community.
1. That, as Mayor, I am empowered to take such measures under section 2.04.020. G. of
the Town Code and am hereby authorized to issue such orders as are imminently
necessary for the protection of life and property.
2. PUBLIC NOTICE OF PROCLAMATION OF CIVIL EMERGENCY:
That, as Mayor, I direct that signed copies of this Proclamation shall be attested to by the
Town Clerk and delivered to the Town Council within 48 hours of its signing and to seek
their ratification of such measures at an Emergency Meeting of the Council called for said
purpose and no other business.
That I direct that copies of the proclamation, along with ratification and any additional
actions of the Council be published in the media, posted at all Town facilities and
distributed to the public within 24 hours of its passing, with an effective date to not be
sooner than 48 hours after its distribution.
That, as Mayor, I direct that copies of this proclamation shall be provided to the Town
Manager and Emergency Management Team,Police Chief,Code Enforcement Official and
Fire Chief.
Copies of this Proclamation and the actions of the Council shall be provided by the Town
Clerk for posting at the entrance to Town Hall,on the Town website,the Town's Facebook
site, distributed through the Town's email lists, and by publication in the Taos News, as
the newspaper of record.
An email address and phone number shall be provided to the public to be able to ask
questions about the actions contained herein and within the Council resolution, including
any changes in hours or procedures for accessing Town services and on how to obtain
Town-sponsored testing, masks, sanitizer and other direct and indirect technical or
financial assistance, information, services and supplies.
3. DURATION:
That consistent with the Town Code, said proclamation by the Mayor shall be in effect for
48 hours from its issuance and must, consistent with Section 2.04.040, be affirmed by a
majority vote of the Town Council prior to its expiration and may be extended by the action
of the Council by their granting the authority to the Mayor through Resolution 21-41
affirming the Proclamation, declaring a civil and health emergency as long as required, or
until either the Mayor or Council rescind said proclamation or it is superseded by federal
or state public health orders or declarations.
4. PUBLIC HEALTH MEASURES:
The Mayor, per the requirements of the Town Code, has evaluated independent findings
by the NM Health Department, CDC, the Town Emergency Management Team, including
weekly updates provided to the Mayor and Council, as well as the findings and
recommendations of the Town Manager and Management Team with regards to the impact
and progress of the current pandemic and, independently,the potential impact through the
surge of the newly spreading variants on the community and the ability of the Town to
provide municipal services; especially the ability to plan for and ensure uninterrupted
services critical to public health and safety.
Further, as Mayor I have also coordinated on a regular basis with the other mayors and
legislators of the state with regards to the pandemic and its impact, as well as potential
responses, and have also coordinated with and received a request from the Governor's
Office for local governments to (re)institute preventive public health and safety measures,
so as for the state to avoid having to resort to further restricting or completely closing
businesses and government.
Therefore, in order to cooperate with the state and our other governmental and health care
partners in instituting measures that provide the least disruption to income of our local
businesses,the uninterrupted employment of our residents, the continued safe provision of
services to the community, the continuity of public education, and in order to reduce to the
extent possible the potential for transmission of the virus to locals, I do hereby declare that
the following public health measures, and upon the consultation with and approval of the
Town Council, are to be taken:
A. Mandatory Face Coverings: All persons including employees, customers, residents
and tourists over the age of 5 are required to wear face coverings when in public,
interacting with the public or in a place where a person may interact with the public,
deliberately or not,including all Town properties(except in public parks where socially
distancing is maintained), gyms, concerts and indoor and outdoor public events such as
the Farmer's Market, restaurants (except while eating or drinking), businesses, banks,
entertainment venues,non-profits, government offices,public utilities, galleries and all
other places of business. All businesses and their on-site supervisors/staff shall inform
and require all staff and customers to wear a face covering when interacting with the
public or other staff and, under Town order, may refuse entry or service to anyone
refusing to wear a face covering properly.
B. Minimum Physical Distance: "Social distancing" (maintaining a physical distance
between all persons in all directions of a minimum of 6 feet) shall be maintained by all
persons when outside of their home, temporary or permanent residence (to include
"residence" to also mean hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, RV parks, camp grounds
and short-term rentals). All businesses, offices, organizations, museums, movie
theaters, galleries, spas, gymnasiums, health facilities, any and all commercial
activities, whether for-profit or non-profit, shall provide such physical signage, visual
markings in check-out and waiting lines and such other appropriate informational
measures as may be required to maintain social distancing between all persons.
C. Maximum Occupancy: All places of business, entertainment,worship,hotels,motels,
short-term rentals,bed and breakfasts and any and all places of business shall abide by
the lesser of the building code or fire code maximum capacity, which shall be posted
and readily visible to the public at the entrance of the premises.
D. State Public Health Orders: This Proclamation shall, by reference, incorporate and
be consistent with any subsequent more restrictive COVID-19 related Public Health
Orders, Executive Orders, and department regulations by the NM Health Secretary,
NM Governor, NM Health Dept., NM Environmental Department and NM Bureau of
Alcohol and Gaming or the Town and authorizes the Town Police Chief and Code
Enforcement Officer, and those they designate, to enforce the provisions of this
Proclamation and any subsequent accompanying Town Resolution or Ordinance and
all relevant state orders authorized by this Proclamation, per section E of this
Proclamation.
E. Penalties: Violations of this order shall be considered a petty misdemeanor, consistent
with the Town Code and laws of the State of New Mexico. Such offenses are punishable
under the Town Code by a fine not to exceed $300 per incident or violation and/or not
more than 30 days in jail.
F. Public Notice: Staff are directed, through the Town Manager, to produce necessary
informational mechanisms so as to alert businesses, the public and tourists as to these
requirements and shall develop a system of reporting and enforcement so as to ensure
their implementation in consultation with the Town Code Officer, the Chief of Police
and the Town Attorney. The Town shall produce and distribute flyers, posters and
signage for businesses to post to alert customers as to the requirements within this order
and shall engage in a public information campaign to alert visitors through banners,
billboards, and electronic display boards etc. as to the requirements contained herein.
5. EFFECTIVE DATE:
This Proclamation of Civil Emergency and the accompanying regulations herein shall
become effective at 8 am, Friday, August 201h, 2021.
Proclaimed and declared this 13th day of August, 2021.
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RESOLUTION 21-41
DECLARATION OF A HEALTH EMERGENCY FOR THE TOWN OF TAOS AND
THE IMPOSITION OF PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR THE PUBLIC AND TOWN
EMPLOYEES
WHEREAS, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared there to be a global
pandemic of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and a subsequent rapidly growing resurgence that has
quickly developed much of the United States; and
WHEREAS, nearly every state, including New Mexico, is seeing a rapid increase in new cases
and hospitalizations at rates that have not been seen since February and that, in many cases, are
breaking all records for the pandemic; and
WHEREAS, the newly developing Delta and Lamda variants of the virus are more contagious
and potentially more deadly that earlier versions of the virus, spreading far more rapidly,
effectively, and easily than the original virus; and
WHEREAS, students and staff are currently returning to school and those under 12 appear to be
more susceptible to the new dominant variants than the earlier virus and are unable yet to be
vaccinated; and
WHEREAS,while the virus is still dangerous to the elderly, infirm, and immunocompromised, a
rapidly growing percentage of the population contracting the virus are children, teens, and young
adults; and
WHEREAS,our medical facilities and staff, first responders, emergency management personnel,
and other critical support systems are already suffering from COVID fatigue after nearly 18
months of a global pandemic, and medical resources are already stretched thin catching up on
deferred health and mental health issues that accumulated during the earlier months of the
pandemic; and
Resolution 21-41 Page I of 6
WHEREAS, a number of regional hospitals and health care providers in New Mexico are already
reaching capacity; and
WHEREAS, the Town and residents of Taos have done an outstanding job at keeping the initial
pandemic under control and have through great effort at testing,masking,vaccinating, and taking
reasonable precautions, fared better than nearly all states and most counties in New Mexico,
allowing us to resume a more normal life sooner and in more ways and the Town wishes to preserve
those hard fought gains through the use of early minimally intrusive basic preventive measures;
and
WHEREAS, the Governor of the State of New Mexico has asked local governments and
communities who have demonstrated success in battling the virus before and lead by example,
such as Taos, to help create a firewall once again to contain and combat these dangerous and
quickly spreading new variants of the virus; and
WHEREAS, the President and Governor, as well as other states and cities, are stepping up to take
preventive measures to include requiring public employees to be vaccinated, to be vaccinated or
masked and tested weekly,to require attendees to theaters, gyms, and restaurants to show proof of
vaccination or a negative test within the last 72 hours, and other controls to prevent the resurgence
of the virus; and
WHEREAS,the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has upgraded its recommendations on mask
requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated persons to be fully masked at all times when
indoors,in public places,or when in places where you may be exposed to unvaccinated or infected
persons; and
WHEREAS, cases of the new variants of the virus have been confirmed in New Mexico and our
region and continue to increase at an accelerating rate in and around the Town of Taos, with 18
new cases in one day this week in Taos County; and
WHEREAS, many surrounding states and counties and those from which we receive visitors are
now back in what was previously classified by new daily cases,hospital admissions,and deaths as
"red"and would have previously resulted in full shut-down; and
WHEREAS,it has been demonstrated in at least three prior surges that no matter how vaccinated,
tested,or cautious we are here in Taos,we are a community with tourists, second homeowners,do
daily business with delivery services, contractors, and vendors from outside the area and our
residents travel to shop, for medical appointments, vacations and to see family in other areas that
are already highly infected,which adds to our vulnerability and the transmission of the virus from
other areas; and
Resolution 21-41 Page 2 of 6
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Town to identify the most effective preventive measures that
are the least intrusive to its businesses and residents as possible and yet still protect the health and
safety of our residents,workers,first responders,etc.so that we may stay open as much as possible,
allow students to safely return to classrooms, sports, gyms and other activities, and to allow
everyone to enjoy a healthy lifestyle and economy as much as possible, free of the virus by acting
early and reasonably; and
WHEREAS, the Mayor of the Town of Taos has issued a CIVIL EMERGENCY
PROCLAMATION based on the findings of the Town's Emergency Management Team and
consistent with the procedures of the Town's Pandemic Action Plan (AP) and Continuity of
Operations Plan (COOP) declaring a public health emergency, and has called an Emergency
Meeting of the Town Council to review and affirm, amend or extend his proclamation within the
required 48 hours, consistent with the Town Code; and
WHEREAS,the Town has complied with the state requirements of the Open Public Meetings Act
for the posting and notification of an emergency meeting of the Town Council during a declared
state of emergency;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF TAOS, BY THIS RESOLUTION THAT WE THE ELECTED OFFICIALS DO
HEREBY DECLARE,AS FOLLOWS:
1. That, the Town Council affirms the Proclamation of Civil Emergency by the Mayor of the Town
of Taos, dated August 13, 2021, and the finding of a public health emergency, concurs with the
actions to be taken and extends it automatically, to be reviewed and extended, amended or
rescinded at each subsequent Town Council Meeting, as public health and safety circumstances
dictate.
2. That, said declaration.shall invoke those financial, planning, police powers and other additional
resources available to the Town through a formal declaration of a state of emergency and that the
staff and Mayor shall identify and report to Council by the next meeting and at each meeting
thereafter on the status of the Town's efforts,the progress of the virus and its impact on the public
health and safety of the community,and recommend and present for the approval of Council such
expenses, resources or additional measures as may be deemed necessary to address the Town's
efforts.
3. That, the Council hereby authorizes the Mayor and Town Manager to conduct such emergency
measures as may be appropriate to safeguard the public health, safety, and welfare of both our
Resolution 21-41 Page 3 of 6
residents and visitors, with any and all financial or regulatory measures not already empowered
to those officials,to be approved by the Council upon their presentation.
4. That, the Council authorizes, consistent with Town Code, the implementation of all necessary
electronic mechanisms for the conduct of Town business,including staff and consultant provided
education, public outreach and planning-related meetings, and electronic, email, and online
streaming participation by the Council and public of such Council Meetings and advisory boards
and committees as necessary. Such meetings shall be advertised,as required,recorded, and made
available to the public on the Town website or by email link,upon request, as soon as available.
The Town shall broadcast online all formal meetings of the Council, Planning and Zoning
Commission and Historic Commission live streamed by audio and/or video.
5. That, the Council, upon the recommendation of the Town Manager, Town HR Director, Town
Emergency Management Team and Town Management Team authorizes, consistent with the
Town of Taos Pandemic COOP and AP, and recommendations of the CDC, the following
additional measures as regards internal Town operations:
a. That, all fully vaccinated Town employees shall provide proof of full and current vaccination to
the HR Department and shall be tested monthly or as necessitated by the HR Department based on
potential exposure or symptoms.All non-vaccinated employees and those failing to provide proof
of full and current vaccination shall be tested weekly and shall be required to wear a KN-95 mask,
provided by the Town at all times while working or on Town properties, or traveling in a Town
vehicle(certified Police and Fire officials are exempted from the mandatory masking requirement
while in their vehicle due to public safety considerations).The vaccination and health status of all
personnel shall remain fully confidential and is not subject to public records requests.
b. That, all Town public events, trainings and meetings and any events, trainings, and meetings
planned to be held in or on Town property are hereby cancelled until further notice,unless having
submitted and received Town approval in writing prior to the event a public health and safety plan
to meet the safety goals of this resolution. The Town, in its sole discretion, shall determine the
acceptability of the plan and shall require the full indemnification of the Town as a prerequisite to
approval. Failure of the event provider to comply with the approved conditions of the approved
plan may result in the termination of the event, prosecution of violators, including the event
provider, and refusal by the Town to allow future events. This requirement will be reviewed every
30 days.
c.That,all out-of-state and out-of-town travel or trainings for Town business are hereby cancelled,
with the status of this prohibition to be reviewed every 30 days and any requests for exceptions for
public safety or other essential services and certifications to be maintained as a requirement of the
Resolution 21-41 Page 4 of 6
employee's job responsibilities to be reviewed and approved on a case by case basis by the Town
Manager and HR Director.
d.That, the Town's Emergency Management Team and HR Department may set such safeguards
regarding employees that travel out of the area or that become ill as are reasonable to protect the
health and safety of staff and the public, consistent with the most current public health guidelines
and advisories.
e. That all non-essential facilities and programs of the Town that involve significant interaction
with or between residents and participants (including the Library and Youth and Family Center)
that might increase staff or local residents to an increased threat of exposure to the virus shall,
consistent with this Emergency Public Health Declaration, be monitored and have reasonable
restrictions in place for masking,social distancing,cleaning,and maximum capacity limits in order
to assure the safety of staff and the public, and shall develop and implement phased contingency
plans for monitoring and reacting to the development of the pandemic with the mutual goals of
maintaining the most practical level of service possible for residents while balancing public health
concerns for all. The effectiveness of all procedures shall be evaluated every 30 days by staff for
the facility or program.
f. That, the Council authorizes the Mayor, Town Manager, Grants and Revenue Enhancement
Director,and Finance Director to prepare for,expend resources in anticipation of, and to apply for
such state and federal assistance as may be anticipated or allocated as related to the state of
emergency for either preventive measures or to assist individuals or businesses that may be
impacted by the pandemic or that may provide resiliency measures against future public health
and economic threats.
g.That,the staff shall maintain a comprehensive record of any violations or refusal to comply with
the provisions of the Public Health Emergency Proclamation, Resolution 21-41, and subsequent
public health regulations by the Town or state by any entity within the Town and that such
information may be used by the Town as a factor in scoring competitive applications for assistance
from the Town intended for pandemic relief.
h. That, the Council authorizes the Finance Director to re-establish an emergency account and to
fund said account up to $100,000 for the tracking and funding of such costs as may result from or
be needed to address the health emergency, and for possible reimbursement of eligible costs,
including: advertising, masks, sanitizer, gloves and other protective equipment and supplies for
internal and community distribution, internal testing and operating public testing sites, rapid test
kits for internal use by first responders and essential personnel, hotels for placement of exposed
first responders to prevent infection of their household,banners, flyers,posters,mailings, website
development, over-time, contract labor, computers, smartphones, electronic equipment, and
Resolution 21-41 Page 5 of 6
telecommunications services, etc. as outlined in the Emergency Proclamation,this Resolution and
the Town of Taos COOP.
L That,the Council authorizes such other emergency measures as outlined in the Towns Pandemic
COOP, Action Plan, or by order, direction or advisement of the federal or state government, or
such interagency mutual aid and emergency cooperation agreements in place or to be put in place,
including the Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA)and the New Mexico Department
of Finance and Administration (DFA)approved Taos County All Hazards Plan,to which the Town
is a signatory.
j. That, consistent with the state requirements under the Open Public Meetings Act and all other
applicable regulations and statutes for both an emergency meeting and the declaration of a state of
emergency by a local government, the Clerk and Attorney shall provide to the required public
offices notice of this meeting, the actions of the governing body, and make available said notice
and actions to the public upon request.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED, this 13t' day of August 2021, at an Emergency
Meeting of the Town Council by the following vote:
Mayor Pro Tern Nathaniel Evans yes
Councilmember Darien Fernandez yes
Councilmember George"Fritz"Hahn Yes
Councilmember Pasqual Maestas ,yes
TOWN OF TAOS
Daniel R. arrone,Ma
ATTEST; APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Fraweila Garcia,Town Clerk ephen C.Ross,Town Attorney
Resolution 21-41 Page 6 of 6
i � - _- � _
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OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
PROCLAMATION OF CIVIL EMERGENCY
1. Daniel R. Barrone, as the duly elected and sworn Mayor of the Town of Taos, hereby do invoke
those powers vested in the Office of the Mayor under Chapter 2.04 CIVIL EMERGENCIES of the
Town Code and upon consultation with the Town Manager and Code Official, Police Chief and
Fire Chief, as well as the recommendation of the Town's Emergency Management Team. and
consistent with the Town's adopted Pandemic Response Plan do declare, that a civil emergency
exists, as defined in Section 2.04.010 of the Town Code (as outlined in but not restricted to
2.04.010C'.), and, consistent with those powers therein granted under Section 2.04.020 (and more
specifically in but not limited to 2.04.020. G.), do declare as follows:
1. A PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY EMERGENCY EXISTS:
That, despite outstanding efforts at vaccination, testing, masking, and social distancing by
the Town and its residents to control and reduce the prevalence of the COVID-19 virus,
a. That, several more contagious variants of the COVID-19 virus have developed.
b. That, states and counties around us are experiencing both a rate of new cases and
hospitalizations not seen since last February, and in some cases since the outbreak.
c. That, we are a tourism and second home community and our experience with the
pandemic to-date has taught us that the despite our best efforts to contain or eliminate
the virus here, it travels with visitors that come here and our residents that travel outside
the area and return.
d. That, children under 12 may be particularly susceptible as they cannot get vaccinated
and the variants seem to be more effective in infecting them than the original virus.
e. That, this is occurring at a time that we are returning to school, going into the fall when
viruses tend to spread more effectively and we are already seeing increased levels of
childhood respiratory illnesses other than COVID that usually do not occur in this
frequency at this time of year.
f. That, we have one hospital in our community with limited capacity that serves an entire
region and can become overloaded very quickly, leading to a decline in the availability
and level of care and bed space available to our residents at a time when other regional
hospitals will be unable to accept out-of-area transfers.
g. That, our local, state and national health care system is already worn thin on staffing
and suffering burn-out and COVID fatigue even before another crises might arise and
may not be able to be as resilient as our last effort.
h. That, as Mayor, our Town government is fully committed to keeping our economy as
open as possible for as long as possible,to being welcoming to all visitors and allowing
our arts and entertainment community, galleries and restaurants to be able to do
business, our children to return to school and participate in sports, and for our
community to lead as normal a life as possible.
i. That, to achieve these goals for the long-term,we must take very reasonable preventive
and precautionary measures early on, as we did at the start of this pandemic, that will
protect the health and safety of our businesses, our elderly, our children, our first
responders, health care workers and essential employees in our businesses so that we
can remain open for business and have as normal a life as possible and not be forced
later due to inaction to return to more restrictive measures, such as closures or shut
downs, that hurt our economy and our people. -
j. That, as Mayor, I have been contacted by the Office of the Governor of the State of
New Mexico and asked to help take the lead at the local level in instituting preventive
measures to help slow the surge of the virus variants within the state using reasonable
precautions that will create a firewall to preserve the gains we have made to date over
other states and other parts of the state.
k. That, the resurgence of the pandemic and the development of and increasing surge by
the Delta and Lamda variants of the COVID-19 virus pandemic do constitute a natural
disaster through a public health and safety crises endangering life(health) and property
(economy) to such extent that extraordinary measures must be taken to protect the
public health, safety and welfare of the community.
1. That, as Mayor, I am empowered to take such measures under section 2.04.020. G. of
the Town Code and am hereby authorized to issue such orders as are imminently
necessary for the protection of life and property.
2. PUBLIC NOTICE OF PROCLAMATION OF CIVIL EMERGENCY:
That, as Mayor, I direct that signed copies of this Proclamation shall be attested to by the
Town Clerk and-delivered to.the Town Council within 48 hours of its signing and to seek
their ratification of such measures at an Emergency Meeting of the Council called for said
purpose and no other business.
That I direct that copies of the proclamation, along with ratification and any additional
actions of the Council be published in the media, posted at all Town facilities and
_distributed to the public within 24 hours of its passing, with an effective date to not be
sooner than 48 hours after its distribution.
That, as Mayor, I direct that copies of this proclamation shall be provided to the Town
Manager and Emergency Management Team,Police Chief,Code Enforcement Official and
Fire Chief.
.Copies of this Proclamation and the actions of the Council shall be provided by the Town
Clerk for posting at the entrance to Town Hall,on the Town website,-the Town's Facebook
site, distributed through the Town's email lists, and by publication in the Taos News, as
the newspaper of record.
An email address and phone number shall be provided to the public to be able to ask
questions about the actions contained herein and within the Council resolution, including
any changes in hours or procedures for accessing Town services and on how to obtain
Town-sponsored testing, masks, sanitizer and other direct and indirect technical or
financial assistance,information, services and supplies.
3. DURATION:
That consistent with the Town Code, said proclamation by the Mayor shall be in effect for
48 hours from its issuance and must, consistent with Section 2.04.040, be affirmed by a
majority vote of the Town Council prior to its expiration and may be extended by the action
of the Council by their granting the authority to the Mayor through Resolution 21-41
affirming the Proclamation, declaring a civil and health emergency as long as required,or
until either the Mayor or Council rescind said proclamation or it is superseded by federal
or state public health orders or declarations.
4. PUBLIC HEALTH MEASURES:
The Mayor, per the requirements of the Town Code, has evaluated independent findings
by the NM Health Department,CDC, the Town Emergency Management Team,including
weekly updates provided -to the Mayor and Council, as well as the findings and
recommendations of the Town Manager and Management Team with regards to the impact
and progress of the current pandemic and, independently,the potential impact through the
surge of the newly spreading variants on the community and the ability of the Town to
provide municipal services; especially the ability to plan for and ensure uninterrupted
services critical to public health and safety.
Further, as Mayor I have also coordinated on a regular basis with the other mayors and
legislators of the state with regards to the pandemic and its impact, as well as potential
responses, and have also coordinated with and received a request from the Governor's
Office for local governments to (re)institute preventive public health and safety measures,
so as for the state to avoid having to resort to further restricting or completely closing
businesses and government.
Therefore, in order to cooperate with the state and our other governmental and health care
partners in instituting measures that provide the least disruption to income of our local
businesses,the uninterrupted employment of our residents,the continued safe provision of
services to the community,the continuity of public education, and in order to reduce to the
extent possible the potential for transmission of the virus to locals,I do hereby declare that
the following public health measures, and upon the consultation with and approval of the
Town Council, are to be taken:
A. Mandatory Face Coverings: All persons including employees, customers, residents
and tourists over the age of 5 are required to wear face coverings when in public,
interacting with the public or in a place where a person may interact with the public,
deliberately or not,including all Town properties(except in public parks where socially
distancing is maintained),gyms, concerts and indoor and outdoor public events such as
the Farmer's Market, restaurants(except while eating or drinking),businesses,banks,
entertainment venues,non-profits,government offices,public utilities,galleries and all
other places of business. All businesses and their on-site supervisors/staff shall inform
and require all staff and customers to wear a face covering when interacting with the
public or other staff and, under Town order, may refuse entry or service to anyone
refusing to wear a face covering properly.
B. Minimum Physical Distance: "Social distancing" (maintaining a physical distance
between all persons in all directions of a minimum of 6 feet)shall be maintained by all
persons when outside of their home, temporary or permanent residence (to include
"residence"to also mean hotels, motels,bed and breakfasts, RV parks, camp grounds
and short-term rentals). All businesses, offices, organizations, museums, movie
theaters, galleries, spas, gymnasiums, health facilities, any and all commercial
activities, whether for-profit or non-profit, shall provide such physical signage, visual
markings in check-out and waiting lines and such other appropriate informational
measures as may be required to maintain social distancing between all persons.
C. Maximum Occupancy: All places of business,entertainment,worship,hotels,motels,
short-term rentals,bed and breakfasts and any and all places of business shall abide by
the lesser of the building code or fire code maximum capacity,which shall be posted
and readily visible to the public at the entrance of the premises.
D. State Public Health Orders: This Proclamation shall, by reference, incorporate and
be consistent with any subsequent more restrictive COVID-19 related Public Health
Orders, Executive Orders, and department regulations by the NM Health Secretary,
NM Governor, NM Health Dept., NM Environmental Department and NM Bureau of
Alcohol and Gaming or the Town and authorizes the Town Police Chief and Code
Enforcement Officer, and those they designate, to enforce the provisions of this
Proclamation and any subsequent accompanying Town Resolution or Ordinance and
all relevant state orders authorized by this Proclamation, per section E of this
Proclamation.
E. Penalties:Violations of this order shall be considered a petty misdemeanor, consistent
with the Town Code and laws of the State of New Mexico.Such offenses are punishable
under the Town Code by a fine not to exceed $300 per incident or violation and'or not
more than 30 days in jail.
F. Public Notice: Staff are directed, through the Town Manager, to produce necessary
informational mechanisms so as to alert businesses, the public and tourists as to these
requirements and shall develop a system of reporting and enforcement so as to ensure
their implementation in consultation with the Town Code Officer, the Chief of Police
and the Town Attorney. The Town shall produce and distribute flyers, posters and
signage for businesses to post to alert customers as to the requirements within this order
and shall engage in a public information campaign to alert visitors through banners,
billboards, and electronic display boards etc. as to the requirements contained herein.
5. EFFECTIVE. DATE:
This Proclamation of Civil Emergency and the accompanying regulations herein shall
become effective at 8 am, Friday. Au"ust 20`' 2021.
Proclaimed and declared this 13th day of August, 2021.
aniel . Barron7e
\� MayoN.
Approved as to form:
Town Attornev
� s a
• Certified and Recorded by:
' Francelh Garcia
Town Clerk
Daniel R. Barrone,Mayor Taos Municipal Building
400 Camino de la Placita
Councilmeinbers: `, ' Taos,New Mexico 87571
Nathaniel Evans (575) 751-2000
Darien D. Fernandez Fax(575) 751-2026
George "Fritz"Hahn
Pascualito M.Maestas Visit us on our Website at:
www.taosgov.com
Richard Bellis, Town Manager
August 24,2021
New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration
Attention Division Director Donnie Quintana
407 Galisteo Street
Santa Fe,NM 87501
RE: Emergency Meeting of the Town of Taos
Dear Mr.Quintana,
The Town of Taos held an Emergency Meeting on August 13,2021,to discuss actions required in the Town of Taos to
address the COVID-19 variants. During the emergency meeting,the Town Council took note of the Governor's request
for local governments to take preventive measures to prevent the resurgence of the virus. The Mayor of the Town of Taos
issued a Proclamation of Civil Emergency and adopted Resolution No.21-41,"Declaration of a Health Emergency for the
Town of Taos and the Imposition of Preventive Measure for the Public and Town Employees."
According to NMSA 1978,Sec. 10-15-1(F),the Town is required to report the actions taken and the circumstances
creating the emergency to your office;therefore,attached are the following:
• August 13,2021,Town Council Emergency Meeting Agenda;
• August 13,2021,Town Council Emergency Meeting Minutes;
• Resolution No.21-41"Declaration of a Health Emergency for the Town of Taos and the Imposition of
Preventive Measures for the Public and Town Employees;and
• Proclamation of Civil Emergency
Because the Governor has declared the State of Emergency,we believe that according to NMSA 1978 Sec. 10-15-1(F),
this report is not required,but it is filed in the interest of keeping you informed and for transparency.
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns. Thank you.
Respectfully,
d4 -
Francella R.Garcia
Town Clerk,CIVIC
Town of Taos
(575)751-2004
Enclosures: 08/13/2021 Town Council Emergency Meeting Agenda
08/13/2021 Town Council Emergency Meeting Draft Minutes
Resolution 21-41
Proclamation of Civil Emergency
Daniel R. Barrone,Mayor Taos Municipal Building
400 Camino de la Placita
Councilmembers: ` ' Taos,New Mexico 87571
Nathaniel Evans (575) 751-2000
Darien D. Fernandez Fax(575) 751-2026
George "Fritz"Hahn
Pascualito M.Maestas Visit us on our Website at:
www.taosgov.com
Richard Bellis, Town Manager
August 24,2021
The Honorable Michelle Lujan Grisham
Governor of New Mexico
490 Old Santa Fe Trail,Room 400
Santa Fe,NM 87501
RE: Emergency Meeting of the Town of Taos
Dear Governor Lujan Grisham:
The Town of Taos held an Emergency Meeting on August 13, 2021, to discuss actions required in the Town of Taos to
address the COVID-19 variants.During the emergency meeting,the Town Council took note of the Governor's request for
local governments to take preventive measures to prevent the resurgence of the virus. The Mayor of the Town of Taos
issued a Proclamation of Civil Emergency and adopted Resolution No.21-41,"Declaration of a Health Emergency for the
Town of Taos and the Imposition of Preventive Measure for the Public and Town Employees."
According to NMSA 1978,Sec. 10-15-1(F),the Town is required to report the actions taken and the circumstances creating
the emergency to your office;therefore,attached are the following:
• August 13,2021,Town Council Emergency Meeting Agenda;
• August 13,2021,Town Council Emergency Meeting Minutes;
• Resolution No.21-41 "Declaration of a Health Emergency for the Town of Taos and the Imposition of
Preventive Measures for the Public and Town Employees;and
• Proclamation of Civil Emergency
Because the Governor has declared the State of Emergency,we believe that according to NMSA 1978 Sec. 10-15-1(F),this
report is not required,but it is filed in the interest of keeping you informed and for transparency.
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns. Thank you.
Respectfully,
r
��1�1�`�_• � Qt�r�
Francella R.Garcia
Town Clerk,CMC
Town of Taos
(575)751-2004
Enclosures: 08/13/2021 Town Council Emergency Meeting Agenda
08/13/2021 Town Council Emergency Meeting Draft Minutes
Resolution 21-41
Proclamation of Civil Emergency
Daniel R. Barrone,Mayor Taos Municipal Building
400 Camino de la Placita
Councilmembers: ` ' Taos,New Mexico 87571
Nathaniel Evans (575) 751-2000
Darien D. Fernandez Fax(575) 751-2026
George "Fritz"Hahn
Pascualito M.Maestas U Visit its on our Website at:
www.taosgov.com
Richard Bellis, Town Manager
August 24,2021
Office of the Attorney General
Attention Director of Advocacy and Intervention
408 Galisteo Street
Villagra Building
Santa Fe,NM 87501
RE: Emergency Meeting of the Town of Taos
To Whom It May Concern,
The Town of Taos held an Emergency Meeting on August 13,2021,to discuss actions required in the Town of Taos to
address the COVID-19 variants. During the emergency meeting,the Town Council took note of the Governor's request
for local governments to take preventive measures to prevent the resurgence of the virus. The Mayor of the Town of Taos
issued a Proclamation of Civil Emergency and adopted Resolution No.21-41,"Declaration of a Health Emergency for the
Town of Taos and the Imposition of Preventive Measure for the Public and Town Employees."
According to NMSA 1978,Sec. 10-15-1(F),the Town is required to report the actions taken and the circumstances
creating the emergency to your office;therefore,attached are the following:
• August 13,2021,Town Council Emergency Meeting Agenda;
• August 13,2021,Town Council Emergency Meeting Minutes;
• Resolution No.21-41 "Declaration of a Health Emergency for the Town of Taos and the Imposition of
Preventive Measures for the Public and Town Employees;and
• Proclamation of Civil Emergency
Because the Governor has declared the State of Emergency,we believe that according to NMSA 1978 Sec. 10-15-1(F),
this report is not required,but it is filed in the interest of keeping you informed and for transparency.
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions or concerns. Thank you.
Respectfully,
Francella R.Garcia
Town Clerk,CMC
Town of Taos
(575)751-2004
Enclosures: 08/13/2021 Town Council Emergency Meeting Agenda
08/13/2021 Town Council Emergency Meeting Draft Minutes
Resolution 21-41
Proclamation of Civil Emergency
TOWN OF TAOS
400 Camino de la Placita
• Taos, NIV 87571
• 575-751-2004
• FAX 575-751-2026
Facsiimfle Tmnsmittal
To: Office of the Attorney General Fax: 505-490-4883
Attention Director of Advocacy and Intervention,
Chief Deputy Attorney General Tania Maestas
Company: Town of Taos Date: 08/26/2021
From: Denise Romero,Deputy Town Clerk Pages: 20 including cover sheet
Re: Town of Taos Town Council Emergency Meeting
August 13,2021
x Urgerrt x For Review O Please Comment ❑ Please Reply ❑ Please Recycle
Good afternoon Ms.Maestas,
The Town of Taos Council held an Emergency Meeting on August 13,2021,to discuss actions required to address the
COVID-19 variants. The Mayor of the Town of Taos issued a Proclamation of Civil Emergency and adopted Resolution
No.21-41,"Declaration of a Health Emergency for the Town of Taos and the Imposition of Preventive Measure for the
Public and Town Employees."
Included in this transmittal:
*Agenda for the Emergency Meeting of August 13,2021
.Minutes of the Emergency Meeting scheduled August 13,2021
*Resolution No.21-41"Declaration of a Health Emergency for the Town of Taos and the Imposition of
Preventive Measures for the Public and Town Employees;and
•Proclamation of Civil Emergency
The original correspondence will be mailed to your office. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any
questions or concerns. Thank you.
Respectfully,
Denise Romero
Deputy Town Clerk
Town of Taos
(575)751-2005
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
U.S. Postal Service'"
CERTIFIED MAIL@ RECEIPT
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490 Old Santa Fe Trail,Room 400
Santa Fe,NIM 87501
U.S. Postal Service'"
CERTIFIED MAIL@ RECEIPT
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E3 '§n NEW MEXICO OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
ATTN:DIRECTOR OF ADVOCACY&INTERVENTION
'(!Wj 408 GALISTEO STREET ---------------------
L— SANTA FE NM 87501
U.S. Postal Service T"
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f1- Attention Division Director Donnie Quintana
407 Galistev Street ----------------------
NM 8750
Santa Fe, - I