Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners: Zoning Meeting May 12, 2026

The Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners held a zoning meeting on May 12, 2026, primarily focused on the proposed Northeast Heights Substation project by PNM. The meeting involved detailed presentations and public comments regarding the substation's location, associated transmission lines, and the need for additional electric infrastructure in the area. Significant community opposition was expressed concerning the substation's proposed site, citing concerns about spot zoning, health risks from electromagnetic fields, fire hazards, visual impacts, and incompatibility with the rural residential character of the neighborhood. PNM representatives defended the project, emphasizing the urgent need for reliable power and the extensive third-party studies supporting the site selection. The county staff reported on the development of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for further independent studies, estimated to cost between $750,000 and $1 million, which PNM declined to fund. The Board discussed motions to grant appeals against the zoning and special use permits, reflecting the community's concerns and the project's compliance with county plans. The meeting concluded with the Board preparing to deliberate and potentially deny the zoning change and special use permit based on the findings and public input.