The Alarming Reality

A development group led by David Bingham, along with Amit Bijlani and Matt Chadwick, is proposing a project called “Independent Nation.” The plan, as understood from public discussions and site plans, is allegedly to concentrate alcohol sales, cannabis dispensaries, and adult entertainment (including a strip club) alongside marketed “family entertainment” in a densely packed area near the Sunland Park and El Paso border.

We believe this is not a vision for progress it is a reckless scheme that appears to flirt with legal disaster and raises grave concerns for our community’s safety, stability, and well-being. The project is alleged to be riddled with critical dangers and demonstrates a pattern of operating at the very edge of regulatory boundaries:

Alleged Legal Trap at the Border:

The proposed cannabis dispensary’s parking lot is reported to run directly against the state line. We are concerned this creates an unacceptable trap where anyone could accidentally transport cannabis into Texas even for a moment an act that carries severe felony charges. This project allegedly places residents and visitors in immediate legal jeopardy.

Developers with a History of Regulatory Intervention:

According to public records, lead developer David Bingham has a documented history of regulatory issues. His past construction work was reportedly stopped by the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID) for proceeding without proper permits. This alleged pattern of pushing boundaries is a serious concern as it is now being applied to a large-scale community project.

Alleged Exploitation of Loopholes:

The project appears to exploit legal gray areas to mix alcohol consumption lounges with “family-oriented” events in a volatile combination that zoning laws are designed to separate. Furthermore, facilitating the proximity of legal cannabis to a state where it is a felony is viewed by many as an irresponsible provocation, one that community members fear will invite increased crime and strain on law enforcement.

Documented Community Opposition:

This plan has been publicly rejected by the people it impacts most. Multiple neighborhood associations have voiced formal opposition, and the Catholic Diocese has publicly condemned the project, stating it risks importing chaos and disorder into Sunland Park. The developers appear to be ignoring this united community front.

Despite these clear and documented public concerns, the developers press forward. We are a citizen-led watchdog group dedicated to documenting facts, raising awareness, and giving voice to community opposition against what we see as a predatory development. We will continue to post verifiable documents, public records, and community concerns. This page is a platform for transparent discourse.

Construction & Regulatory History

Public records and community reports indicate a concerning pattern associated with the developers behind “Independent Nation.” This history raises serious questions about their commitment to lawful and responsible development.

CID Intervention: According to documentation from the New Mexico Construction Industries Division (CID), construction work associated with developer David Bingham was reportedly stopped for proceeding without the proper permits. This type of regulatory action suggests a pattern of operating outside established legal and safety frameworks.

Pattern of Concerns: This alleged disregard for due process in construction permits is consistent with broader community concerns about the “Independent Nation” project exploiting zoning and legal loopholes. A developer’s past conduct is often the best predictor of future behavior.

We Are Documenting: We are committed to tracking and presenting verifiable information related to the developers’ business practices, as these practices directly impact their credibility and the potential risks of their proposed projects.

Construction & Regulatory History

Have you had a negative interaction with David Bingham, Amit Bijlani, Matt Chadwick, or their associated businesses?

Community members have come forward with various allegations. We are providing this platform to document these patterns, as shared experiences help inform the public about potential risks.

Notice to Story Submitters:
By submitting your story, you affirm that your account is truthful to the best of your knowledge. You grant this watchdog site permission to publish your story, in whole or in part, to further public awareness. You may submit anonymously, but providing contact information helps us verify details. Knowingly submitting false information could have legal consequences. We will never publish your personal contact information without explicit consent.

Common Allegations Include:

· Broken Promises: Allegations of promised restaurants, properties, or business deals that never materialized.
· Bullying & Intimidation: Reports of being threatened or involved in lawsuits as a pressure tactic.
· Unsafe or Unfair Housing: Accounts from tenants of trailer parks or properties alleging neglect, exploitation, or unsafe conditions.
· Financial Losses: Claims of unpaid wages, unpaid contractors, or paid-for work that was never completed.

Your shared experience can help others. By documenting these patterns, we strengthen community awareness and resilience. We are listening.

Shared Experience
To the brave individuals who have already come forward: Thank you.

Your voices provide crucial context and strengthen our collective understanding. We are committed to ensuring these concerns are heard.

To every concerned resident: Stay informed. Share this resource. Together, we can advocate for transparent, responsible development that truly serves the public interest of Sunland Park and El Paso.

This is our community. We will not be ignored. We will not be silent.

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