Question #7:
A common refrain heard here is, “We don’t want to be another Ruidoso.” Do you believe Cloudcroft could become another Ruidoso even if it wanted to since we don’t have horse racing, casinos, a destination ski mountain, or enough water? Is there a better way to express what should be our aspirations than to say what we don’t want to become?
Jim Maynard: “I have heard this negative comment for over 30 years. We are land locked surrounded by the Lincoln National Forest. Cloudcroft is very unlikely to expand beyond its current village limits. Our small village image is inherent in this limitation. We need to focus on quality of life not quantity. Our density will increase within the village limits as market demand continues. We can maintain responsible growth and quality of life for all through a focused community effort. This will be a challenge but as your mayor I am sure we are up to it.”
Richard Welch: “My aspirations is quality of life. I believe most people live here because of quality of life. I believe that Ruidoso has a overdevelopment problem. I don't want development that benefits a few people but destroys the quality of life for everyone. Yes I believe that Cloudcroft could become another Ruidoso if development isn't managed properly. Preserving the mom and pop businesses is very important. The mom and pop businesses is what makes Cloudcroft unique, very few villages that are primarily mom and pop businesses still exist.”
Gail McCoy: “Our one-mile radius of the village doesn't allow for a large expansion. I believe Cloudcroft and our uniqueness will stay the same. Very few places can boast of their quietness and a place to rejuvenate. We boast "9,000 feet above stress".
Craig Turner: “I don’t believe Cloudcroft could become another Ruidoso—even if we wanted to, mainly because Cloudcroft is landlocked in almost a half million acres of National Forest. Due to the land available in our small village, expansion efforts to create the types of attractions available in Ruidoso are limited, at best. And yes, I believe there is a better way to express our aspirations…
The surrounding national forest and being landlocked can indeed present challenges in terms of development and expansion that may differ from other destinations like Ruidoso. However, it's important to note that being landlocked within a vast national forest can also be seen as a unique advantage.
Cloudcroft's proximity to nature and its status as a gateway to the national forest can be leveraged to attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. By focusing on promoting activities such as hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and exploring the forest trails, Cloudcroft can establish itself as a haven for those seeking a tranquil and immersive natural experience.
Furthermore, the national forest can also provide opportunities for eco-tourism, conservation efforts, and educational programs that highlight the importance of preserving the environment. By emphasizing sustainable practices and showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of the forest, Cloudcroft can attract visitors who value environmental stewardship.
While Cloudcroft may have limitations in terms of certain amenities and attractions, it can still carve out its own unique identity and become a desirable destination by capitalizing on its natural surroundings and offering experiences that cannot be replicated elsewhere.”
Gerald ‘Dusty’ Wiley: “Cloudcroft can never be another Ruidoso, and I for one am thankful. Ruidoso is fun to visit and even nicer to leave and come home to Cloudcroft. We know and look out for one another. We care about our community. Continuous measured revitalization and/or growth is a necessity, but done right, it should enhance our community. To me and my family we often say Cloudcroft is like a mythical modern-day Mayberry. After more than 7 years, we still pinch ourselves and say, ‘how lucky are we’!”
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