Lenentine meet 'n' greet on Saturday leads 2025 series

RIO RANCHO — Chatting it up with constituents, shaking their hands and cuddling a few babies are the things you might expect from Rio Rancho District 2 Councilor Jeremy Lenentine this Saturday, when he hosts the city council’s first meet ‘n’ greet of the year.

The event, one in an ongoing series for the six members of the Rio Rancho Governing Body, is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon at the Loma Colorado Main Library, 755 Loma Colorado Blvd. NE.

“It definitely is a great opportunity just to remember exactly why I got into (public service),” Lenentine said. “Sometimes this job is a lot of meetings, but the part I really enjoy is to get to work and interact with people.”

His meet ‘n’ greet comes as the city looks for ways to boost turnout for the events that saw strong community turnout and engagement during the events’ inaugural year.

“These events help strengthen the relationship between the City and its residents, and we’re excited to continue that momentum this year,” Turpen wrote. “The success of last year’s events showed us that these gatherings are meaningful to our community and should remain part of our outreach efforts.”

The city hopes to increase attendance at meet ‘n’ greets by hosting them alongside existing city events, Turpen wrote. Lenentine’s appearance will coincide with Star Wars Fest.

“It’s too popular not to bring up,” said Lenentine, a fan of the popular film franchise. “I introduced it to my kids last year; it’s so good.”

He encouraged residents to chat with him whether they live in District 2 or not.

“People are great. It’s a chance just to meet and greet and that’s what most people take it to be,” Lenentine said. “We’ve only done one, but my experience is really positive.”

Another change in this year’s meet ‘n’ greets will include multiple council districts, particularly those that include neighborhoods that frequently come together for shared activities.

District 4 Councilor Paul Wymer and District 6 Councilor Nicole are scheduled to host their Meet ‘n’ Greets from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 17 at the Rio Rancho Sports Complex, 3501 High Resort Blvd SE.

District 1 Councilor Deb Dapson and District 5 Councilor Karissa Culbreath are scheduled to host their Meet ‘n’ Greets from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 28 at Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon Blvd SE.

District 3 Council Bob Tyler’s meet ‘n’ greet will be announced soon, according to the city’s website.