Police departments nationwide are struggling to recruit and retain officers. Resignations are up 47%, Louisiana declared a state of emergency due to a police officer shortage, and NYC deployed the National Guard in its subway to help deter crime. On today’s episode of The Mayor’s Table, Farmington Police Chief Steve Hebbe is discussing some of the reasons behind the national challenge to recruit officers and how this staffing crisis is affecting communities.  He’ll also share insight into FPD’s recruiting and retention efforts and what citizens can do to help improve this situation.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to raise public awareness about sexual violence and advocate for its prevention. For the last 20 years, Sexual Assault Services of Northwest New Mexico has been a vital resource for survivors and their families, providing -SANE Exams -Therapy -And Advocacy   SAS also conducts outreach, community education, and school-based primary prevention programs.    SAS’s director, Eleana Butler, recently met with Mayor Duckett to discuss the organization’s work over the last twenty years and how it’s expanded to serve residents in neighboring communities.   Hear their discussion and learn how you can support this nonprofit organization on today’s episode of The Mayor’s Table.

The Bonnie Dallas Senior Center has an interesting history dating back to the '80s. Since then, it has expanded from its original services and become a beloved community center where seniors can connect, learn, and have fun. The center serves over 300 meals a day to seniors and offers a variety of activities and classes, including: -Monthly BINGO -Saturday Night Date Night Dances -Creative Writing Groups -Arts & Crafts -Piano Lessons -Basic Spanish Classes -Card Games It also hosts the annual High Desert Games in association with New Mexico Senior Olympics. And that’s not all! Tune in to today’s episode of The Mayor's Table to learn more about the Bonnie Dallas Senior Center and the important role it plays in our community.

"I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way—things I had no words for," Georgia O'Keeffe . Art is an important component of the initiatives we've created here in Farmington. Public art evokes feelings of joy, inspires conversation, and creates an inviting atmosphere for people to enjoy.  Bev Taylor and Flo Trujillo recently sat down with Mayor Duckett to discuss Farmington's growing art scene. These women have been long-time supporters of local artists and instrumental in bringing art to downtown—the HeART of Farmington. Tune in to the latest episode of The Mayor's Table as Bev and Flo share their insights on the power of art in shaping our city's identity and bringing people together.

Do you know of a place in Farmington where kids ages 6 to 18 can explore their interests, learn about robotics and drones, find mentors, create art, and play sports?  We do!  And we're highlighting this facility and its many programs on today's episode of The Mayor's Table.

Sports offer numerous benefits for children that will have a lasting impact into adulthood.   These benefits include: -Social skills -Improved confidence -A higher level of self-esteem -Discipline and time management   Engaging in sports also promotes overall physical well-being and establishes a strong foundation for lifelong healthy habits.   Mayor Duckett recently sat down with local leaders representing swimming, soccer, golf, football, track and field, softball, and baseball.    These individuals are dedicated to ensuring area youth have opportunities to play in sports.    Hear their discussion on today's episode of The Mayor's Table.

"You have arrived! This is the place where people succeed!"  San Juan College has grown tremendously through the years, enhancing its commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities. With 140+ programs, affordable tuition, and the recent addition of student housing, the college is an invaluable asset to our community. Are you familiar with TeachUp? This program was started to address the teacher shortage in New Mexico.  Tune in to today's episode of The Mayor's Table to hear about the program's success and SJC's many other accomplishments, recognitions, campus renovations, and future initiatives.

As we usher in 2024, we’re excited to kick off the new year with an insightful episode of The Mayor’s Table featuring special guests, councilors Jakino, Rodgers, and Bingham-Kelly.  City government plays a pivotal role in the daily lives of citizens. From infrastructure to public safety, your local elected leaders influence the quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and plays in Farmington. Today, Mayor Duckett and city council reflect on their leadership roles, sharing insight into the intricate thought process behind the decisions that shape our community. Hear some of their biggest surprises since taking office, their favorite projects, and what they’re excited about in the new year.

Join us for this year’s final episode of The Mayor’s Table as Mayor Duckett sits down with a true pillar of justice — Retired Judge Bill Liese.  With an impressive career spanning over a half-century, Judge Liese has not only worn the prestigious robe of a municipal judge but also served as a law enforcement officer with the Farmington Police Department. Among his many accomplishments, Judge Liese played a pivotal role in establishing a 28-day jail treatment program to address alcohol-related traffic fatalities. The program’s success made it a model for similar programs statewide.  Don’t miss today’s episode as Retired Judge Bill Liese shares insight into this initiative and reflects on his 55 years of dedicated service to Farmington.

It’s the Season of Giving. Today’s guests are talking about their nonprofit and how it facilitates 100% of donated funds to LOCAL charitable organizations to help San Juan County residents. And guess how much those funds are — nearly $1 million annually. YOU ROCK, community! Thank you for your generosity. Tune in to today’s Mayor’s Table to learn more about this organization, including how they’re working to address gaps in resources and how even the smallest donation can make a BIG impact.

We’re kicking off the holiday season with special guests Jamie Church from the Farmington Chamber of Commerce and Tonya Stinson from the Farmington Convention and Visitors Bureau. Join Mayor Duckett and his guests as they unwrap the ultimate guide to holiday festivities in Farmington—a cherished annual tradition here on The Mayor’s Table! Explore the season's magic with the FCVB’s community calendar, packed with holiday fun like the Christmas Parade, Riverglo, Festival of Trees, and SO MUCH MORE! Plus, discover opportunities to make a difference in our community this holiday season.

Come meet old friends and make new ones at the Farmington Indian Center!   Did you know the Farmington Indian Center attracts people from all over the world and even attracted a popular YouTuber with 5 million+ subscribers?   Tune in to today’s episode of The Mayor’s Table with guest Myra Newman to learn more about the center and why it’s a popular place for locals and visitors.

We're coming to you with good news about utility rates on this special episode of The Mayor's Table with FEUS Director Hank Adair! You may have seen Farmington Electric Utility System's announcement on Wednesday about rates returning to their traditionally low level following a challenging year. Hank joined Mayor Duckett to provide additional insight on the rate reduction and future strategies to keep customer costs low. Please take a few minutes to watch today's special episode and share this important information with friends and family.

Ready to dive into the world of outdoor adventure but not ready to splurge on gear? Tune in to the latest episode of The Mayor’s Table, where Mayor Duckett and his guest explore an avenue for trying new activities without committing to big equipment purchases.  Plus…learn about a surprisingly fun sport that’s affordable, open to everyone, and turns your walk into a workout.

Two of the busiest weekends in Farmington are coming up, and Mayor Duckett and his guests have all the info! Mark your calendars for Sept. 29-Oct. 1 and Oct. 5-7 for all the fun fall festivities in Farmington. One of these signature events has a new twist this year. What are the events? Tune in to today's episode of The Mayor's Table with Jamie Church and Natalie Spruell to find out.

We’re stepping back in time to explore the fruit that’s a significant part of Farmington’s origin story—apples! Tom Taylor and museum director Bart Wilsey sat down with the mayor to talk about Farmington’s rich apple history and how it helped shape the economy. Hear their discussion on today’s episode of The Mayor’s Table.  And be sure to come out and celebrate our community’s unique connection with apples and love of chile at the Southwest Apple and Chile Fest, Oct. 5-7 in downtown Farmington. Find details online at FarmingtonNM.org.

Community transformation is the topic of today's episode of The Mayor's Table!  We're working to improve livability for our residents and create a landscape attractive to businesses and people wanting to relocate, from families to remote workers and retirees. Bisti Bay Water Park, Lake Farmington improvements, Complete Streets, and the ongoing expansion of our trail system are just a few of the many community transformation projects made possible because of CTED (Community Transformation & Economic Diversification) funds.  Listen to today's episode to learn more about completed and future CTED projects.

On Wednesday, Farmington Electric Utility System announced that the power cost adjustment would be reduced, lowering customer utility bills by approximately 20%. The reduction will happen in two phases and be reflected in utility bills beginning October 1.  On today's special episode of The Mayor's Table, FEUS director Hank Adair provides further details about the PCA, factors that affect electricity rates, and the utility’s integrated resource plan. FEUS is a public power utility with the primary goal of providing reliable and affordable electricity to the community.  Please listen to this important episode and share the information with family and friends.

If you missed the unveiling of the FY24 annual budget during the May 9 city council meeting, we've got the replay on today's episode of The Mayor's Table.   The annual budget is a comprehensive document that provides an avenue for continued expansion and development and sets the stage for a future of sustained growth and enhanced services for the community.    The fiscal year 2024 budget funds City services from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.   Tune in to today's episode to hear how your tax dollars are allocated for resources to vital areas such as public safety, infrastructure, economic diversification, and recreational opportunities.    You’ll also hear about where City funding comes from, the budget process, the effects of the gross receipts tax hold harmless provision, and City accomplishments and goals.

Farmington's been host to the Connie Mack World Series since 1965. Each year, top-tier teams from around the country come to play in the tournament, with some players going on to achieve greatness in Major League Baseball. Mark Varley, chairman of the Connie Mack World Series Committee, joined Mayor Duckett at the iconic stadium at Ricketts Park to talk about this year's event, which runs July 20-29. Hear their discussion on today's episode of The Mayor's Table.