Alamogordo Trash Contract, Lodgers' Tax: What's Next
Published 19 October 2026
Alamogordo's residential trash contract with Southwest Disposal runs out early next year, and city staff are pricing other options, including a city-run system. City Manager Bob Stockwell shared that update, along with news on a possible lodgers' tax, the auditorium project and the Toy Train Depot, at the October 13 City Commission meeting. No votes were taken on these items yet, so think of this as a preview of decisions coming in the next few months.
Here is what was said, based on 2nd Life Media's report on the October 13 meeting, and what it could mean for homeowners.
What is happening with Alamogordo's trash pickup?
The city's residential trash franchise with Southwest Disposal expires early next year. Stockwell said staff are pricing alternatives, including a system the city would run itself, and will report back to the commission within months.
Nothing changes at your curb yet. If you own a home or are buying one, this is one to watch, since the outcome could affect who picks up your trash and what you pay for it.
Will Alamogordo bring back a lodgers' tax?
Maybe. The city previously canceled its lodgers' tax, which is a tax on hotel and motel stays. Stockwell said the city is working with the Chamber of Commerce on whether to reinstate it, and on whether to contract tourism marketing to the Chamber. He said recommendations are expected in the next few months.
A lodgers' tax is paid by overnight visitors, not residents, and it is typically used to promote tourism. More visitors can help local restaurants, shops and attractions, which is good news for anyone who owns property or a business here.
What is new with the auditorium and the Toy Train Depot?
| Project | Where it stands |
|---|---|
| Residential trash contract | Southwest Disposal franchise expires early next year; staff pricing options |
| Lodgers' tax | City and Chamber studying whether to reinstate it; recommendations in the next few months |
| Auditorium project | Out to bid; 35 people attended the pre-bid conference |
| Toy Train Depot | Sheldon Trust proposes funding a major reconstruction in exchange for a long-term lease |
Stockwell said the auditorium project is now out to bid. A pre-bid conference drew 35 attendees, and the contract includes outside project management.
At the Toy Train Depot, the Sheldon Trust wants to fund a major reconstruction of the depot's tracks and buildings in exchange for a long-term lease. Stockwell said he expects to recommend the lease, with money set aside to restore the park if the volunteer-run depot ever closes. If you have not been yet, my Toy Train Depot guide has everything you need for a visit.
When does the City Commission meet next?
The next regular meeting is Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Donald E. Carroll Commission Chambers, 1376 E. Ninth Street. The City Commission page notes that the commission usually meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays, but moves to the first and third Tuesdays in November and December.
What this means for homeowners and people moving here
Trash service is one of those costs nobody thinks about until it changes, so if you are budgeting for a home in Alamogordo, keep an eye on what the city decides. The lodgers' tax and auditorium work point the same direction as the city's blight cleanup plan: more investment in how the city looks and what it offers. That tends to support home values over time. If you are new to the area, my Moving to Alamogordo guide covers setting up utilities and services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alamogordo changing trash companies?
Not yet. The city's residential franchise with Southwest Disposal expires early next year, and staff are pricing options, including a city-run system.
When will the city decide on trash service?
City Manager Bob Stockwell said staff will report back to the commission within months. No vote has been scheduled yet.
What is a lodgers' tax?
It is a tax on overnight stays at hotels and motels, paid by visitors. Alamogordo previously canceled its lodgers' tax and is now studying whether to bring it back.
Is the Alamogordo auditorium project out to bid?
Yes. City Manager Bob Stockwell said it is out to bid, and 35 people attended the pre-bid conference.
When is the next Alamogordo City Commission meeting?
The next regular meeting is Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. It is held in the Donald E. Carroll Commission Chambers at 1376 E. Ninth Street.
This post is based on 2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News coverage of the October 13, 2026 City Commission meeting and the City of Alamogordo City Commission page, as of 19 October 2026. These were updates from the city manager, not commission votes.