County: Council To Consider Purchase Of Three Properties On Diamond Drive At Tuesday’s Meeting – Los Alamos Reporter

The Los Alamos County Council will consider a potential purchase of three properties located at 1183, 1377, and 1399 Diamond Drive during its upcoming meeting on Nov. 19, at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers , 1000 Central Ave., Los Alamos. The proposed purchase, valued at $9.85 million, is intended to advance several Council-adopted strategic priorities to enhance economic vitality and quality of life.

One such strategic priority is to improve access to behavioral, mental, and physical health and social services and amenities to address identified issues and promote wellbeing in the region. Several years ago, the Council approved funding in the County's capital improvement budget, to develop a Social Services Hub, but progress stalled due to a lack of a designated site and the absence of a completed Comprehensive Health Plan to guide the facility's scope. With the anticipated purchase, the County can align the project's design and public engagement efforts with the nearly finalized Comprehensive Health Plan, slated for presentation to the Council on Dec. 17.

Beyond the Social Services Hub, the Diamond Drive properties present additional opportunities for community development, including housing and small retail or restaurant spaces, also strategic priorities. The properties' proximity to Los Alamos High School and the University of New Mexico-Los Alamos campus could also foster beneficial collaborations that enhance both educational and community resources.

Currently, 1183 Diamond Drive is occupied by tenants, and the existing building—commonly known as Boomtown—will remain until lease obligations conclude. Development efforts will initially focus on the adjacent properties at 1377 and 1399 Diamond Drive, formerly home to Metzger's garage and Anderson's Market and where Morning Glory Baking Company Cafe was previously located.

Should the Council decide to proceed with the purchase, alternative uses of the properties will also be explored. The proposed transaction is backed by sufficient funds in the General Fund, with budget adjustments facilitating the transfer of funds from the Economic Development Fund.

Interested individuals are encouraged to provide public comments on the agenda item, 9.C. under Business, using the eComment tool and are invited to attend the meeting in person or via Zoom on November 19.