SUNLAND PARK, N.M. (KFOX14/CBS4) — A proposal to annex over 2,600 acres of land into the City of Sunland Park is stirring debate in Dona Ana County.

The City said the annexation, requested by several landowners including Mesilla Bolson Properties LLC, Santa Teresa Country Club LLC, Wholesale Landvestments LLC, and Yvonne Collins, would enhance access to essential services for current and future residents.

Sunland Park City Manager Mario Juarez-Infante emphasized the importance of land use planning, stating, “Land use planning is important so you can find your future infrastructure in terms of water and sewer transportation corridors, open spaces, public safety.”

The City plans to develop residential and commercial spaces in the area, aligning with its master plan.

Juarez-Infante added, “It gives us the ability to start planning for the future. So more than anything, it’s a great planning tool to be able to get ahead of it.”

However, the proposal has raised concerns from Dona Ana County.

A neighborhood serviced by the county is situated in the middle of the proposed annexation area.

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Stephen Lopez, Dona Ana Assistant County Manager, previously expressed his concerns, saying, “It is a very unusual move, and certainly hampers our ability to service the customers that would remain outside the City of Sunland Park.”

Residents of the affected neighborhood have voiced their worries.

One resident said, “Well, nobody has talked to us and we don’t know the proposal. What are the advantages and disadvantages to join Sunland Park?”

Another resident expressed a desire for the city to take over road maintenance and lighting, citing these as significant issues.

Dona Ana County is expected to vote on the proposal soon, but the final decision rests with the City of Sunland Park.

The City of Sunland Park has a public hearing scheduled for December 3, where a decision will be made.

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