Battle continues for East Mountain residents as Campbell Ranch development moves forward
Nov 23, 2024
BERNALILLO COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) -- The battle continues over a proposed development in the East Mountains that could bring more than 4,000 new homes. However, residents are pushing back, saying a lack of resources would hurt the area rather than improve it.
"I am shocked to learn that, again, Campbell Ranch Development schemes are up for discussion," said one resident.
In a four-hour long meeting Thursday night, over a hundred residents filled the room, overflowing to the hallway, at an Edgewood Planning and Zoning committee meeting. It was all in an effort to oppose further movement on the long-term project.
"Please do not approve the Campbell Ranch Master Plan. Please, respect the will of people," said one resident, followed by clapping and cheering from the crowd.
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The Campbell Ranch Master Plan development, located near Sandia Park was approved in 2002. Fully realized, the development would bring 4,000 homes and two golf courses. However, residents have continued to oppose development efforts.
"I would ask you guys to vote no for this. This has been litigated over and over again, and it just won't die."
Campbell Farming Corporation, the property's owner, requested commissioners approve the lot to be subdivided into five different lots, making future development on the property more manageable.
"No part of this application would allow any development to occur, no roadways to be built, no infrastructure to be installed, no houses to be constructed. We're certainly creating, or we're simply creating large parcels that might help facilitate that in the future," said Sheldon Greer, a project manager with Community Design Solutions, representing Campbell Farming Corp.
Residents said from day one, they've feared the project would limit the area's already scarce water supply.
"There's no clear plan for water supply for the proposed development. Since purchasing my property in 2006 my well has significantly declined. I've spent $30 grand to deepen it, install a holding tank, and address multiple failures. If any groundwater is used for the subdivision, I fear [that] I and my neighbors will face escalating challenges, increasing costs, diminishing property values, and diminished quality of life," said resident Darielle Dexheimer.
In February 2023, an appeals court blocked the developer from using Sandia Basin groundwater in the area. Still, affected residents wonder what the plan would be for limited resources and infrastructure.
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"We fully recognize that, inevitably, the water supply must be sorted out," said Greer.
The proposal moved forward with a three to two commission vote. Affected residents can appeal the ruling by December 6.