Highlights from the Week of June 21, 2021
There's a lot going on in the City Different!
Free Wi-Fi = People Power
Recognizing that the onset of the pandemic had ripped the Band-Aid off of pre-existing socio-economic inequalities and vulnerabilities, the Office of Economic Development took to steps to promote equity. These efforts included addressing the digital divide by expanding free Wi-Fi reach to the exterior of schools, libraries, and City buildings.

Recently, the City started offering free Wi-Fi to mobile home parks in the 87507 Zipcode. A pilot project was recently installed at Atocha Mobile Home Park, whose management adopted the service primarily for the benefit of its student residents.

Atocha is the first of six potential mobile home park Wi-Fi installations in the densely populated Districts 3 and 4. The City also anticipates installing free Wi-Fi at public housing in the Hopewell Mann area.

The Department of Information Technology and its Geographic Information Systems Division provided the technical expertise. Larry Worstell, IT Infrastructure Manager, says: “Putting technology at the service of the public good is central to our role, and mostly behind the scenes. When you have visited the sites, helping underserved families is uniquely rewarding.”

Find out more about the free Wi-Fi program here.
MAYOR'S NOTE:
Good News &
Some Hard Times
The week began with outstanding news about our city’s economic recovery. All kinds of businesses have rebounded—and so have our revenues from the Gross Receipts Tax. It’s a remarkable comeback—and we still have the upcoming summer season to look forward to. We've never seen anything like the intensity of this rapid recovery!
 
By the end of the week, however, we also experienced the post-COVID shadow of two shootings. It's a national concern: President Biden addressed the nation on the dramatic increase in homicides across America. Something is happening—and it likely involves post-COVID mental and behavioral health issues, depression, substance abuse, and crime. 

As we end the week, let’s celebrate the economic recovery, offer thanks to our Police and Fire team members who keep us safe, and show compassion and concern for those in our community who are battling mental and behavioral illnesses. 
Reminder: No Personal Fireworks!
 According to a Resolution adopted by the Governing Body, the sale or use of aerial and ground-audible fireworks is temporarily prohibited within City limits. To report violations, call (505) 428-3710 — and be prepared to provide the exact address where the violations are taking place. Persons making a complaint may do so anonymously. Firefighters reinforce the safety messages here and here.

I Got Vaccinated Because ...
Mayor Webber and Councilors Cassut, Garcia, Lindell, Vigil Coppler, and Villarreal, care so deeply about the health and safety of Santa Fe that they made a persuasive video to explain why they got vaccinated.

The leadership reminds us that we can't let our guards down now and that anyone who remains reluctant ought to get vaccinated so we can all enjoy the summer in safety.
Local Food Matters
Buying food from local producers supports Santa Fe's economy, helps protect the environment, and builds community – and it tastes better, too. You can also save $$ by purchasing your veggies through a CSA program. Double win! Check out this month's episode of "Climate Matters", our sustainability radio show, if you want to learn more about the benefits of local food, and visit our website for CSA options in the area.
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Independence Day Festivities
Lots of safe ways to celebrate the Fourth!
  • The City will host a show by the Santa Fe Vintage Car Club on the Plaza from 11 to 4.
  • The Fire Department will cool the kids off with a fun-filled Spray Down at 1 p.m. at Salvador Perez Park.
  • The annual fireworks display will take place at Santa Fe Place Mall after sunset. Enjoy!
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