Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury Celebrated This Milestone with the County Marking the Transition from Dream to Reality

Bernalillo, NM, February 19, 2026—Sandoval County held a groundbreaking event today for its new Animal Resource Center. Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury attended, joined by other State and Sandoval County elected officials, guests, and staff. In her remarks, Congresswoman Stansbury said, “The most important thing that I can say to you this morning is to help us find a home for these animals because that’s what this project is all about.” She continued by sharing that the Sandoval County Animal Resource Center was on her desk her first day of office in Congress, and that she is honored to be part of the project. In addition to Congresswoman Stansbury, the County thanked Senator Ben Ray Lujan, State Senator Craig W. Brandt, and Representatives Matthew McQueen and Catherine Cullen for their support of the Center and assistance in making it a reality.

The new center is the first of its kind for Sandoval County. Katherine A. Bruch, Commissioner, District 1, said, “This has been in our plans for a very long time, and while we all wanted it built yesterday, it will be worth the wait. Our commitment to the care of animals in the County is demonstrated every day by an Animal Services team that works 24/7, 365 days a year. This staff ensures the well-being of abandoned dogs and cats through conscientious fostering and adoption programs. We applaud them and know that they will be able to increase their successful efforts in this new facility.”

Sandoval County Commission Chair Jordan Juarez said, “As one of New Mexico’s fastest-growing counties, we can attest that our animal population grows quickly, too. We have many animals needing homes so please, ADOPT DON’T SHOP!” According to Commissioner Juarez, the County’s Public Works’ Construction Department worked closely with Huitt-Zollars, the architect/engineering firm, to create a design that would allow for expansion on the existing footprint. Basic site preparation is complete, and construction begins the week of February 23, 2026. EPX New Mexico is the contractor for the $8M facility.

During welcoming remarks, Sandoval County Manager Wayne Johnson explained that the new center is situated on a five-acre parcel within the Sandoval County Government campus off South Hill Road, Bernalillo, NM.  This land was purchased from the heirs of the Estate of James and Barbara Jo Baylor. Designed to provide shelter and services to the animals in the County’s care as they await their forever homes, it will also be a place where pet owners can learn about their pet’s care and get referrals to resources.

Jayme Espinoza, Director of Community Services, explained that the new facility will  care for 50-60 dogs and 12-20 cats at any time. The main building is 7,350 sq. ft. and will have puppy and cat kennels, offices, and training rooms. Accommodations for larger dogs are in a separate 3,000 sq. ft. plus building with a play area, and there will be a temporary shelter for animals requiring separate quarters (for quarantine or other issues). The center’s campus will also have an area for large animals (dogs, horses, livestock) available for special situations. Its dog park will be open to Sandoval County residents, visitors, and their pets. The center address is 635 Vista Sandia Court, Bernalillo, NM.

The County will soon hire an Assistant Director for the Resource Center to help with the transition from a temporary dog shelter model to a full-fledged animal resource center. The current Animal Services team of five is expected to expand to 15 – 20 members when the Center opens in early 2027. Sandoval County Animal Services’ efforts, which include pet adoption events at least three times a month, have been noticed by national and international companies and foundations throughout the years. Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization, has recognized Sandoval County as a No Kill Shelter for the past three years. Three other grants, totaling $14,500.00, have been earned in the past 12 months from activities involving County shelter dogs. These awards will be promoted later this year when the organizations publicly release the winners.

Sandoval County, one of the fastest-growing counties in New Mexico, encompasses 3,714 square miles of diverse geography and has a population of more than 160,000 people. It includes the incorporated municipalities of Bernalillo, Cuba, Corrales, Jemez Springs, Rio Rancho, San Ysidro, the Town of Cochiti Lake, numerous unincorporated communities, and all or portions of 12 Indian Pueblos and Tribal Nations. For more information, visit www.sandovalcountynm.gov.