Santa Fe staff outlines RFP timeline and evaluation committee for Cattlemen's District

City staff told the joint Economic Development Corporation and City Council meeting that a draft RFP for the Cattlemen's District is nearly finished and that staff plans to issue the solicitation in October 2026.

"So by October, October of this year, it's my plan to have that RFP out and then start getting some proposals in, to fill that property," the city manager said while outlining next steps. The presenter said the EDC purchased 4.11 acres and the city is combining about 2 additional acres behind the police department to create the development site.

The city manager described the evaluation committee the city plans to assemble to review proposals: two EDC members, two city council members and three city staff. The presenter also noted limits on what can be constructed on the site without voter approval, saying that certain public‑works facilities or unfunded construction would require a vote of the people.

Council members raised the possibility of memorializing restrictions in the deed or the resolution to ensure the property is used for economic development rather than other municipal purposes.