The City and County of Santa Fe introduced a joint resolution on April 7 addressing the future of Area 1B near Agua Fría, following months of discussion about jurisdiction, planning, and service delivery. The resolution will be presented to the Santa Fe City Council on April 7 and to the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners on April 14.
This development is important because it aims to resolve longstanding questions about governance in Area 1B, which has been subject to uncertainty for residents regarding annexation and local control. The effort follows a community forum attended by around 80 residents who discussed policy options for the area.
A working group consisting of County Commissioners Lisa Cacari Stone and Adam F. Johnson along with City Councilors Alma Castro and Pat Feghali was formed earlier this year to explore solutions including possible annexation. The proposed resolution instructs staff from both governments to amend existing annexation agreements, end Phase 3 annexation for most of Area 1B, waive the city’s right to challenge potential county designation as part of the Traditional Historic Community of Agua Fría, reconvene land use authorities as needed, and allow property owners flexibility in petitioning for annexation without obligating city approval.
“I am proud to support this joint resolution as a step toward resolving longstanding questions around Area 1B,” said Mayor M. Garcia. “By advancing a collaborative path forward, we are creating the conditions for clearer governance, better planning, and stronger relationships with the county and the residents we serve.” Commissioner Lisa Cacari Stone said: “This action brings long-overdue clarity to Area 1B residents who have lived for years in uncertainty about their future. It reflects what we heard directly from the community—a clear desire for stability, respect for their identity, and a meaningful voice in decisions that affect their lives.”
According to the official website, Santa Fe County promotes community engagement through public meetings and advisory boards while providing access to documents according to Santa Fe County. The county supports its operations through administrative facilities across its region according to Santa Fe County, focusing on transparent governance and resource stewardship while delivering essential services such as public safety, health care, human services, public works, and community development according to Santa Fe County. Policy-making is managed by a Board of County Commissioners with administrative oversight provided by a county manager according to Santa Fe County.
The next steps include committee reviews throughout April before final votes at both governing bodies later in the month. Residents are encouraged by officials to attend meetings or participate remotely; information will be available via city or county websites.
