New rec center on Portales agenda

PORTALES — After its last meeting included lengthy and often contentious public input regarding the city of Portales potentially turning its rec center into an entertainment venue, tonight the Portales City Council will discuss ideas for a new sports and recreation center.

Mayor Ron Jackson said the idea for a new sports and recreation center originated from a strategic planning meeting held in April.

The council will discuss the city’s options before voting on whether or not to proceed with a conceptual architect design for a new facility.

Also on the agenda for tonight’s meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. in the Memorial Building Council Chambers, 200 E. Seventh St.:

• The council will vote on a memorandum of agreement between the city and the Portales Municipal School District regarding the city’s use of the school’s sports facilities.

Jackson said the city currently uses the school’s fields and gymnasiums for sports practices and games.

• Planning Director Donna Rutherford will present a report on code enforcement violations for 2017-18.

• The council will consider a contract for a teen court coordinator.

• During the public input portion at the end of the meeting, Kirsten Peterson-Barber said she will present a petition regarding a new hold policy at the Portales animal shelter.

Peterson-Barber said the shelter previously held dogs and cats for 21 days before being euthanized, but that period was recently shortened to seven days. She said that does not give rescue groups enough time to find homes for the animals.

Peterson-Barber said she will present the council with an online petition with over 2,400 signatures from around the globe with the hopes the council will reinstate the 21-day hold period.

• Payroll specialist Kathy Kennedy and Fire Chief Gary Nuckols will be recognized for 20 years of service with the city of Portales.