Las Cruces City Council approves new development code

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The Las Cruces City Council approved changes to zoning and building ordinances Tuesday, adopting a new development code for the first time in nearly 25 years.

The revisions replace portions of the municipal development code with updated guidelines known as Realize Las Cruces. City officials say the changes are intended to simplify regulations and align with the Elevate Las Cruces comprehensive plan, which was adopted in 2020. The code has been in development since then, with public meetings, town halls and news coverage throughout the process.

The meeting included more than two hours of public comment, with residents voicing both support and opposition. One of the main concerns raised by those against the measure was the possibility of certain commercial businesses — such as cannabis dispensaries — being allowed near residential areas. City officials clarified that while the new code allows for more mixed-use areas, the intent is to permit low-impact businesses such as bed and breakfasts, small grocery stores and cafes. They emphasized that design standards would still apply, restricting where and how businesses can operate in residential zones.

Despite these assurances, some residents and at least one council member remained skeptical. Councilor Bill Mattiace, who cast the sole vote against the measure, argued that while the likelihood of undesirable businesses near housing may be low, it remains a possibility under the new code. Others echoed his concerns, while supporters of the plan argued that it would promote growth and flexibility in development.

Key provisions of the updated code include increased housing density to address shortages, greater flexibility in building heights and carport designs and expanded land use options. The code also establishes multi-modal transportation standards and encourages growth in designated Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas.

A Technical Manual, approved alongside the new code, removes design standards from the Development Code, placing them in a separate document that can be updated more frequently.

An eight-month grace period will allow applicants to submit development plans under either the old or new code.

Tuesday’s meeting can be viewed on the city’s YouTube channel. The next council work session is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, at Council Chambers, 700 N. Main St.

For more information, visit Realize Las Cruces.