Empowering Tourism: AF’s Strategic Use of Lodgers Tax Funds

As Mayor of Angel Fire, I have been reminded time and again of the stark differences between the private sector, where I spent most of my career, and the deliberate pace of government operations. However, I’ve also learned that there are moments when we can act swiftly and decisively to seize opportunities that benefit our community.

One such opportunity arose recently with the approval of a $1 million advertising campaign contract with Carristo Creative. I had to cast the tiebreaking vote in favor of awarding this contract, and it was a decision I made with confidence and a clear vision for our village’s future.

Upon taking office in January, one of my first priorities alongside Manager Wier was to conduct a comprehensive audit to gain insights into our financial standing. Among the initial discoveries was a substantial $2.3 million balance in lodgers tax funds. These funds, collected from hotel stays and shortterm rentals, are designated for specific purposes, including advertising to attract more visitors to Angel Fire.

With a looming deadline and the risk of funds being “clawed back” by the State of New Mexico if not utilized within two years, swift action was imperative. Recognizing the urgency, we established a new Lodgers Tax Committee tasked with overseeing the prudent expenditure of these funds.

One of the crucial decisions we made was to partner with Carristo Creative for our advertising campaign. My long-standing professional relationship with Monica Christofferson, the driving force behind Carristo Creative, played a pivotal role in this decision. Monica’s expertise and dedication to excellence were evident throughout our collaboration, and her proposal received unanimous approval from the Lodgers Tax Committee.

Despite some dissenting voices, the majority recognized the potential impact of this investment in boosting tourism and economic growth in Angel Fire. We held thorough discussions and work sessions, culminating in a positive vote in favor of Carristo Creative’s proposal.

This decision is not just about allocating funds; it’s a strategic investment in our community’s future. By leveraging these lodgers tax dollars effectively, we aim to position Angel Fire as a premier destination, attracting more visitors and fostering sustainable prosperity for our residents.

I am proud of the collaborative efforts that have brought us to this point, and I remain committed to transparent and responsible governance that prioritizes the well-being and growth of Angel Fire. Thank you,

Mayor Lindsey