EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — As cleanup continues in Ruidoso following two devastating floods this month, some residents say they are still waiting for help even as state and federal funding begins to roll in.
The most recent flooding on Thursday, July 24 swept through areas still recovering from a deadly flash flood earlier this month.
Antonio Payan, 84, has lived in his home near Brady Canyon for nearly 20 years. He says he was out of the country when the July 8 flood hit. When he returned, his home was unrecognizable, he said.
“As you can see, everything’s damaged. I’d say 100% was damaged,” Payan said. “I’m not young anymore. I’m 84, so you can imagine for me to start again.”
Payan is now staying with his daughter and says church organizations and the Red Cross have offered help with clean-up. Like many residents, he’s still hoping to receive assistance from FEMA.
“I’m just hoping I get some help. There’s nothing I can do except kind of wait and see,” Payan said.
Village of Ruidoso officials say recovery efforts are ongoing, with volunteers and contractors working to remove debris and stabilize damaged structures. But the cost of rebuilding is growing quickly.
Ruidoso Mayor Lynn Crawford said the State of New Mexico has fronted $22 million in emergency funding to help cover immediate costs, including infrastructure repairs, utility restoration, and demolition of structures posing imminent threats. Another $22 million is available once those initial funds are exhausted.
“We’ve got about 39 to 40 million dollars’ worth of projects underway,” Crawford said. “The state has been gracious to step in and front the money, but it’s a loan. That’s why we need to make sure FEMA approves these projects for reimbursement.”
State officials said at least $15 million in federal assistance has been activated through a major disaster declaration issued by President Donald Trump with more expected as damage assessments continue.
Despite the destruction, Village leaders say Ruidoso remains open to visitors, and local businesses are hoping to stay afloat during the busy summer season.
“It’s a tale of two cities,” Crawford said. “One side is devastation. The other side is sunshine, golf, and people shopping downtown. But we need support on both ends — for our families and for our economy.”
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