The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2025-07-23 KCPRC Regular Meeting OFFICIAL ta of T9 ,c° • ' om • • *. •* • 1934 •GO • �'' 'MExl MINUTES Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting Hybrid Meeting Town Council Chambers - 120 Civic Plaza Drive Wednesday, July 23, 2025 3:30 p.m. 1. Opening Items A. Call to Order The Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting was called to order by the Committee Chair, Genevieve Oswald, at 3:31 pm. B. Roll Call Deputy Town Clerk Miquela Mangum called roll, and a quorum was present. Those present were: Committee Chair Genevieve Oswald Committee Member George "Fritz" Hahn Committee Member Peggy Nelson Committee Member Sylvia Rodriguez Committee Member Horacio Trujillo Committee Member Jesse Winters (Left due to emergency at 4:24 p.m.) Also Present: Town Clerk Denise Martinez Deputy Town Clerk Miquela Mangum Committee Intern Paxton Henry C. Pledge of Allegiance Committee Member Trujillo led the Pledge of Allegiance. D.Approval of Agenda Committee Chair Oswald noted that Dr. Kathy Cordova was not able to be present for item 4B, and alternate panelist Ms.Alicia Vigil would be taking her place. Committee Member Trujillo motioned to approve the agenda with the noted change in item 4B. Committee Member Rodriguez seconded the motion. The motion passed. The Committee members voted as follows: Ayes: Trujillo, Rodriguez, Hahn, Nelson, Winters E. Introduction of Items for the Committee Committee Chair Oswald began by briefly stating that the purpose of the Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee meetings was to identify and present a new name for the park currently known as Kit Carson Memorial Park. She clarified that the meetings were not intended to revisit the reasons for renaming the park, as that discussion had taken place a decade earlier under a previous council. That council had decided to rename the park and to form a committee to engage the community in selecting a new name. However, that process had not begun for ten years. Committee Chair Oswald expressed disappointment that such an important task had remained unfinished and said she brought it forward to the current council to demonstrate a commitment to completing important work. She concluded by affirming the committee's readiness to move forward and welcomed attendees to the meeting. 2. Citizens Forum No comments were presented at the Citizens Forum. 3. Consent Agenda -The items in the Consent Agenda have been reviewed by the Committee Chair, and the Chair has placed these items on the Consent Agenda for the purpose of voting on all items with one vote. The items listed are for the Committee's consideration and approval. A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of June 26, 2025 Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting Minutes. (Deputy Town Clerk Miquela Mangum) Committee Member Nelson asked that the minutes for review also be sent to the committee via email attachment going forward. Committee Member Trujillo was not present at the June 26, 2025 meeting, and abstained from approving the minutes. Committee Member Nelson motioned to approve the June 26, 2025 Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting Minutes. Committee Member Rodriguez seconded the motion. The motion passed.The Committee members voted as follows: Ayes: Nelson, Rodriguez, Hahn, Winters.Abstain: Trujillo. 4. Presentations A. Presentation: Why -Send a Runner?Jim Kristofic and Edison Eskeets. Jim Kristofic expressed appreciation for being invited to speak to the committee about the renaming of Kit Carson Park, noting the personal significance of the issue since he moved to the area in 2014 when the discussion first arose.As a high school English teacher and co-author of Send a Runner:A Navajo Honors the Long Walk, Mr. Kristofic explained how the project began with a letter from Edison Eskeets, a respected Navajo elder and former trader at Hubbell Trading Post. Mr. Eskeets then shared his personal background, having grown up in Springstead, New Mexico, and discussed the traditional Navajo identity, history, and language. He described how his life, extensive experience as a runner, and cultural teachings shaped the book. He emphasized that the book was about humanity, history, and survival, containing deep emotional truths that are sometimes difficult for even Native communities to face. Mr. Kristofic then explained how the book was written — by hand over four months—while he lived and worked on a Navajo farm near the Long Walk route. He followed Mr. Eskeets'commemorative run from Canyon de Chelly to Santa Fe, retracing the forced removal path of the Navajo people during the Long Walk. He noted that the book's structure mirrored Navajo weaving—interwoven stories, colors, and cultural depth. Mr. Kristofic detailed the historical background of the Long Walk, calling it a preventable atrocity engineered by General James Carleton for economic gain, particularly gold prospecting. Carleton's plan was executed by Colonel Christopher"Kit" Carson, who had a long and violent history with the Navajo, despite his personal reservations about the operation. Mr. Kristofic described the brutal tactics used, including scorched earth campaigns and winter forced marches that led to mass death and suffering. He argued that while Kit Carson was a competent military leader, his actions during the Long Walk made him an inappropriate namesake for a public park, a space meant for peace, reflection, and community. Mr. Kristofic concluded by highlighting the distinction between honoring military figures in war-related sites and the incongruity of naming peaceful civic spaces after them. Edison Eskeets then reflected on the depth and complexity of the history discussed, noting that even a month-long discussion wouldn't be enough to cover it all. He mentioned that many stories remained unwritten, including those related to the Civil War. In 1864, as the Civil War ended, soldiers from both the North and South found themselves unemployed. Seeking purpose, they turned to the government, which then shifted its focus to settling the Indian Wars.As a result, military forces were sent across various regions, including the Dakotas, Colorado, and the Southwest, leading to the signing of treaties during that time. Mr. Eskeets emphasized that this period involved convoluted histories. While the Navajo people were not directly involved in the Civil War, they valued balance and harmony—concepts inconsistent with warfare. However, when asked to defend their people, the Navajos did so and earned recognition as warriors. Mr. Eskeets described the forced marches through Canyon de Chelly and Gallup toward Fort Sumner, mentioning five trails used during the relocation.Along the way, Native people were sold into slavery in Mexico, with some descendants ending up in Spain. Mr. Eskeets noted that the Civil War had been driven by power, money, and slavery, but he also saw value in studying history.As a former teacher with a background in the arts, he appreciated connections between Indigenous and Spanish artistic influences. He showed a silver bracelet that combined Navajo craftsmanship with Baroque design, explaining the symbolism of motifs like the crescent-shaped naja, originally worn by Spanish horses to ward off evil. He advocated for the sharing of cultural stories, while also stressing the responsibility to understand one's heritage to help shape a better future. He concluded that naming decisions were in the committee's hands, and he had been honored to share stories from over 40 years of experience. Mr. Kristofic added that history should not excuse harmful actions, such as the Long Walk. Field reports from the time praised the Navajo for being intelligent, egalitarian, and capable allies.Although Kit Carson, who led some campaigns, was illiterate, his commanders were not and still ignored these positive reports. Mr. Kristofic argued that different decisions could have been made to avoid suffering. He saw the relocation of the Navajo as a sick social experiment, but one that was eventually challenged by public pressure.As a New Mexico citizen, he was grateful to contribute to educating others and welcomed questions from the committee. Committee Chair Oswald noted that Mr. Eskeets' 15-day run culminated on the 150th anniversary of the Navajo return from Bosque Redondo and encouraged everyone to read the accompanying book, describing it as profound. Committee Member Trujillo offered heartfelt thanks to both speakers for sharing not just their knowledge but also the emotional weight of the history. He acknowledged the injustice of expecting those who carry historical trauma to justify their presence or retell painful histories. Committee Member Trujillo also addressed public skepticism about the committee's work, particularly on social media, emphasizing that the work was grounded in restorative justice and making history better. He stressed that truth must precede reconciliation and that their testimonies provided vital truths for that process. Committee Member Nelson stated that rather than asking a question, she intended to thank the speakers and planned to order the book. Committee Member Hahn expressed his gratitude, recognizing Mr. Kristofic for his work with students at Taos High School. Committee Chair Oswald explained that renaming was not about rehashing history but about acknowledging truth as part of healing and justice. She emphasized that names are not static and that naming is a historical act. She concluded that the speakers'contributions had been among the most powerful moments in the committee's work and presented an opportunity to make history better and more just. She reiterated the importance of storytelling, emphasizing that the stories we tell about the past and present shape the future. In closing, Mr. Eskeets reflected that individuals are guided by belief, cognition, and faith, each moving in different directions. He noted that the book referenced two significant sites—Canyon de Chelly and Chartres Cathedral—symbolizing cultural and spiritual depth. B. Panel -"Mapping Meaning: How We Use, Remember, and Imagine the Park" - Panelists: Dr. Kathy Cordova, Dawn Boulware, and Vivian Dye.Alternate -Alicia Vigil The panel discussion, moderated by Committee Chair Oswald, brought together Ms. Dawn Boulware, Ms. Vivian Dye, and Ms.Alicia Vigil to reflect on memories of Kit Carson Park and discuss its future as a vital community space. The conversation centered on a community-centered vision, accessibility, and safety. Reflections and Personal Memories and What Would Make the Park More Inviting to Others? . Dawn shared that many of their meaningful park memories involved activities like dry-land training with a ski team, playing tennis, having picnics, and spending time with friends—especially during childhood, before the Youth and Family Center existed. She felt the park had been one of the few places where young people could gather freely. To encourage more such moments, Dawn believed the park needed to feel more welcoming and better maintained aesthetically. . Vivian recalled attending concerts and participating in events like walking for health. She emphasized the need for more events of this kind in the park. . Alicia reflected on being born and raised in the area and remembered the park as a place of early independence during adolescence. Boys would skateboard while girls braided hair and read books. She also recalled the now-removed ice rink as a cherished family activity. Concerts were mentioned as another enjoyable experience. To recreate these moments, she suggested avoiding restrictive barriers like chain-link fences and improving park upkeep to ensure a sense of safety and freedom for youth. What Would Draw More of the Community In? . Dawn expressed that large events often left the park feeling unwelcoming, especially when chain-link fences remained up afterward. She believed beautifying the park—reviving natural elements like trees and grass— would have improved the experience. She also suggested bringing back historical elements such as a waterway (possibly an acequia) and adding interpretive signs or art installations to tell the story of Taos. Cleanliness, safety, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages were emphasized. . Vivian recommended creating an all-abilities playground, inspired by friends with disabilities, and adding clean, accessible bathrooms. She also proposed adding a large park sign and a designated dog park for dog playgroups. . Alicia included removing restrictive barriers when not in use, improving facilities like restrooms, and adding inclusive artistic features such as murals reflecting local history. She appreciated existing structures like the old stage and wanted them revitalized for interactive, creative use. She included ideas such as building bike and walking paths, making playgrounds more accessible for families with young kids, maintaining sports areas (e.g., baseball, volleyball, tennis, and pickleball courts), and restoring picnic spaces with stone tables for community gatherings and parties. What Should Be Preserved or Restored? . Dawn emphasized preserving the park's natural aesthetics and suggested creating a healing garden inspired by other small-town parks. She proposed working with the Native Plant Society to incorporate native plants and envisioned the garden as a meaningful, restorative space—especially in the context of the park's renaming effort. . Viviana believed the concrete stage should be preserved due to its attractive mural and frequent use by the community. She also supported keeping the large stage used for concerts, suggesting that the surrounding grass and area be improved. . Alicia highlighted the importance of the park as a community gathering place. She believed its role as a welcoming space for all people was what made it special and worth preserving. Committee Reflections . Committee Member Hahn recounted how, in 2014, community members—including young people—mapped out the acequia system in the park, identifying three lateral ditches connected to the Acequia Madre del Rio Pueblo. It took a year to organize, and the following year, they successfully brought water into the park. On one especially hot day, former Mayor Dan Barrone and other community members including panelist Dawn Boulware's mom helped distribute the water, which became a memorable and joyful moment. The water reached areas near the church and children's playground, transforming the field into a shimmering aquamarine landscape—an image described as paradise. . Committee Member Rodriguez recalled overnight camping trips in the park when she was a Brownie, also with panelist Dawn Boulware's grandmother. She also expressed appreciation for the idea of a healing space in the park. . Committee Member Trujillo emphasized that the conversations held were special not only because they involved listening to community members, but also because they helped actively build community— demonstrating by example what kind of values and activities should be reflected in the park. He referenced Dawn's suggestion about adding interpretive signage and noted that Committee Member Hahn had expanded on it, perhaps unintentionally, in a powerful way. The idea of interpretive displays was seen as a way to inform how the park might be named and understood—not just through personal names, but through themes of history, nature, agriculture, and the full water cycle, including acequias. Committee Member Trujillo recalled that Committee Member Winters and other Taos Pueblo representatives had also emphasized naming places based on their characteristics or meaning, rather than after individuals. This approach aligned with the suggestions being discussed and reinforced the idea of honoring the deeper identity of the land and its relationship to the community. . Committee Chair Oswald explained that it had been challenging to gather a diverse panel due to scheduling issues. She noted that the previous panel was all men who had expressed feeling unsafe in the park. This prompted a question about how an all-women panel might perceive safety in the same space. Chair Oswald acknowledged that the current panel had not explicitly mentioned feeling unsafe but rather expressed a desire to feel safe—and asked them directly about their current sense of personal safety in the park. Dawn shared that she generally felt safe during community events like concerts but admitted to feeling less secure in more isolated areas of the park, such as near the old tennis courts and baseball diamonds—especially around entrances like the road near Morada. Vivian stated that they did not feel safe in the park outside of organized events. She mentioned the presence of individuals experiencing homelessness, noting that some behaved in ways that felt unpredictable or intimidating, which contributed to their discomfort when alone.Alicia said she had avoided the park altogether except during events.As a parent of two young children, she preferred visiting other parks, like Fred Baca, where she felt safer and more comfortable using the facilities and teaching her kids to ride bikes. Key Themes: . Accessibility & Inclusion . Cultural Expression . Maintenance &Cleanliness . Freedom &Safety . Community-Centered Vision The panel discussion revealed the park should return to being a vibrant, shared space rooted in Taos identity and community use, with new emphasis on features that ensure all ages and abilities can enjoy the park. 5. Updates A. Review of"Rename the Park" survey data from the Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Website. Committee Chair Oswald reviewed the results of a community survey that had been available online from May 29th to July 20th. The survey included four questions, the same ones asked of panelists during the community meeting. A total of 14 respondents participated. Chair Oswald compiled and analyzed the data, presenting key themes, quotes, and insights from the responses. Respondents frequently recalled meaningful memories tied to family gatherings, youth activities, Little League games, summer camps, and community events such as concerts,food fairs, and disc golf tournaments. The park was valued not only as a recreational space but also for its emotional and spiritual significance, with memories of moonlit walks, song-learning under cottonwoods, and irrigation participation. Concerns were also raised. Several participants mentioned safety and maintenance issues, citing experiences with drug activity, assaults, and aggressive dogs. These concerns indicated a clear need for improvements to safety infrastructure and general upkeep. Survey participants expressed a strong connection to the park's historical and cultural features, including the ice skating rink, cemetery, and acequias. Many emphasized the importance of preserving these elements. While 28.6% supported renaming the park, a smaller number(7.1%) opposed it or questioned the purpose of the survey, reflecting a mix of perspectives within the community. The analysis identified several community values, including: . Belonging and Intergenerational Connection—Memories showed a desire for inclusive,joyful family and community gatherings. . Safety and Well-being—Respondents valued security, lighting, and proper maintenance. . Ecological and Historical Stewardship—There was strong support for preserving acequias, natural landscapes, and cemetery history. . Dialogue and Democratic Process—Even opposing views were shared through a lens of constructive civic engagement. . Accessibility and Equity—The community wanted the park to be usable and welcoming for everyone. . Cultural Respect and Representation— Respondents called for programming and naming that reflected Taos's cultural diversity. . Creativity and Shared Experience—Artistic and communal events were central to positive park memories. Committee Chair Oswald concluded that the park held deep emotional, cultural, and ecological significance, and that a name change -while not the top priority- remained a recurring theme, symbolizing the broader effort to make the space seem more inclusive. 6. Matters from the Committee A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of continuation of survey for KCPRC website, using same questions or new questions. Committee Chair Oswald distributed updated copies of a proposed path forward and acknowledged the limited number of survey responses (14). She raised the question of whether the committee should continue gathering survey input or move toward name collection based on the community values already identified. Committee Members Nelson and Trujillo expressed skepticism about relying solely on an online survey, citing its limited reach and the town's relatively weak online presence. Committee Member Trujillo emphasized the need for more active outreach to collect community input, including utilizing social media tools, like polls, with support from their intern, Paxton, as well as revisiting survey design, possibly pushing one question at a time to increase engagement. He also noted that the data so far—though limited—already reflected consistent themes and could continue to serve as impressionistic input, similar to insights from panelists. Mr. Jim Kristofic suggested distributing surveys through Taos schools, particularly high schools, to reach students and families. Committee Member Rodriguez also suggested publishing press releases, potentially getting coverage in the Taos News or through local radio stations to increase awareness. Committee Chair Oswald noted the urgency of having a shortlist of names by September, so a recommendation could be prepared for the Town Council by October. Holidays later in the year would limit council meeting opportunities. Ultimately, the committee agreed on a proposal to continue collecting survey responses through September 19th, allowing time to analyze and present updated results at the September 25th committee meeting. From there, the committee would shift its focus to gathering and evaluating name suggestions based on the identified community values. Participation would be executed using a multi-channel strategy of social media, schools, local press and radio, utilizing Committee Intern Paxton Henry to help implement the efforts. Committee Member Hahn made a motion to continue the website survey until September 19th to allow for data presentation at the September 25th meeting. Committee Member Nelson seconded the motion. The motion passed. The Committee members voted as follows: Ayes: Hahn, Nelson, Rodriguez,Trujillo. Absent: Winters. B. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of draft land acknowledgement language, including a proposed call to action and consideration of publication on the KCPRC webpage. Due to Committee Member Winters' early departure for an emergency, the committee agreed to continue Item 6B to the August 28th meeting. Committee Member Trujillo motioned to continue item 6B until the August 28th meeting. Committee Member Nelson seconded the motion. The motion passed. The Committee members voted as follows: Ayes: Trujillo, Nelson, Hahn, Rodriguez.Absent: Winters. C. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of an engagement calendar with Taos MainStreet- Committee Members Peggy Nelson and Jesse Winters and Arcenio Trujillo of Taos MainStreet. Committee Member Trujillo disclosed a minor conflict of interest, stating he had served as an informal advisor to Main Street and had encouraged the idea of collaboration with them based on their organizational strengths and limitations. He clarified that his intent was not for Main Street to carry out work on the committee's behalf, but rather to explore potential partnership, especially around community engagement. Committee Member Trujillo advised Main Street to focus on neutral community outreach and not to involve themselves in the controversial aspects of the park renaming process. He emphasized the importance of staying focused on restorative justice and community-building, which align with Main Street's mission. Taos Mainstreet Executive Director Charles Whitson and Taos Mainstreet Community Engagement Coordinator Arcenio Trujillo then presented an overview of Taos Main Street's community engagement plan, which aimed to revitalize and make the Taos Historic District—particularly the park—a vibrant civic space. Their strategy included engaging the community where they already gather, instead of expecting attendance at government-hosted meetings. They planned four forums: one at Taos Pueblo (to engage Pueblo residents), one in the Ranchos area (targeting elders), one focused on youth engagement(still in development), and a final "diverse audience"forum to synthesize and present findings. These forums were scheduled between early August and mid-September, with the goal of informing the committee's decision-making by October. Committee member Nelson raised the idea of collecting name suggestions during these forums. Committee Member Trujillo and others felt it would be more appropriate to wait until later in the process, perhaps at the final public gathering, to introduce name submission—after the values and community input had been properly discussed. Additional ideas were discussed, including outreach opportunities to engage families with children, such as participating in local events like Touch A Truck or Movies on the Green. Suggestions also included collaborating with local organizations like Twirl. Committee Member Nelson motioned to approve the engagement calendar presented by Taos MainStreet. Committee Member Trujillo seconded the motion. The motion passed. The Committee members voted as follows: Ayes: Nelson, Trujillo, Hahn, Rodriguez. Absent: Winters 7. Adjourn Committee Member Nelson motioned to adjourn the meeting. Committee Member Rodriguez seconded. The motion was carried unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at 5:49 p.m. APPROVED: Genevieve Oswald, Committee Chair ATTEST: ,Mkj,uela'Mangui , Deputy Town Clerk • • • a� • • • v` • 3 • • �, • \1/4% 4a�:n. f ATTENDANCE SIGN-IN SHEET * * Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee jFw mE Meeting - Town Council Chambers Wednesday, July 23, 2025 3:30 p.m. PRINT Name Clearly Residence (Not Mailing Address) !tau n Bi -rQus� I '�1 CITIZENS FORUM SIGN-IN SHEET (5 MINUTE TIME LIMIT) • —�• * Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting i'� 1934 , _O � �tr ‘tti:``. Town Council Chambers Wednesday,July 23, 2025 3:30 p.m. PRINT Name Clearly Residence (NOT mailing address) TOPIC CITIZENS FORUM SIGN-IN SHEET (5 MINUTE TIME LIMIT) KCPRC Meeting Town Council Chambers Name ors..:+•,:e -:,;., • 1 1 I • ~ • 1 • I se I • I • li Ir nv • • II • • I li e• NI V.• Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting The meeting will be held at the Town Council Chambers at 120 Civic Plaza Drive, Taos, NM 3:30 p.m. 1. Opening Items A. Call to Order B. Roll Call C. Pledge of Allegiance D. Approval of Agenda E. Introduction of Items for the Committee 2. Citizens Forum A. Citizens wishing to speak shall limit their comments to 5 minutes. Citizens may submit comments to Committee Chair Genevieve Oswald at goswald@taosnm.gov. No action may be taken. 3. Consent Agenda -The items in the Consent Agenda have been reviewed by the Committee Chair,and the Chair has placed these items on the Consent Agenda for the purpose of voting on all items with one vote.The items listed are for the Committee's consideration and approval. A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of June 26, 2025 Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Meeting Minutes. (Deputy Town Clerk Miquela Mangum) 4. Presentations A. Presentation: Why - Send a Runner?Jim Kristofic and Edison Eskeets. B. Panel - "Mapping Meaning: How We Use, Remember, and Imagine the Park" - Panelists: Dr. Kathy Cordova, Dawn Boulware, and Vivian Dye. Alternate -Alicia Vigil 5. Updates A. Review of"Rename the Park" survey data from the Kit Carson Park Renaming Committee Website. 6. Matters from the Committee A. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of continuation of survey for KCPRC website, using same questions or new questions. B. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of draft land acknowledgement language, including a proposed call to action and consideration of publication on the KCPRC webpage. C. Discussion, consideration, and possible approval of an engagement calendar with Taos MainStreet -Committee Members Peggy Nelson and Jesse Winters and Arcenio Trujillo of Taos MainStreet. 7. Adjourn