EMPAC’s 2nd Annual Community Gathering Set for Oct. 19 in Sandia Park

SANDIA PARK, N.M. — The East Mountains Protection Action Coalition (EMPAC) will host its second annual Community Gathering on Monday, October 19, from 6–8 p.m. at Lantern Ridge Market in Sandia Park, bringing residents, community leaders, and elected officials together for an evening focused on issues shaping the future of the East Mountains.

The gathering will include updates concerning Campbell Ranch and the Diamond Tail Solar Project, as well as a significant discussion about new opportunities for protecting the land, water, and character of the East Mountains. EMPAC has been actively involved in legal and community efforts concerning both projects.

“There are moments when a community has an opportunity not simply to react to change, but to help shape what comes next,” said Dennis Kellogg, Board President of EMPAC. “October 19 is about bringing our neighbors together, sharing where things stand, and talking about some very promising possibilities for the future of the East Mountains.”

The evening will also feature local and state leaders, including Bernalillo County Commissioner Eric Olivas, Senator Anthony Thornton, and House Representative Stefani Lord, who have worked alongside EMPAC and the East Mountains communities on issues affecting the region.

“The strength of our East Mountains community has always been its people,” said Charlene Smith, EMPAC Community Outreach. “When our neighbors become informed and work together, remarkable things can happen. There is a lot happening right now—and this is one evening you’re going to want to be in the room for.”

RSVPs are encouraged by October 12 and can be made at info@TheEMPAC.org.

Event Details:

  – Event: EMPAC Community Gathering
  – Date: Monday, October 19, 2026
  – Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  – Location: Lantern Ridge Market, Sandia Park
  – Contact: info@TheEMPAC.org
  – More Information: https://theempac.org