SANTA FE-Governor Bill Richardson today signed a bill creating the Eastern New Mexico Water Utility Authority during a visit to Clovis. HB 15, sponsored by Rep. Anna Crook, will help ensure that Eastern New Mexico has a sustainable water supply.

“This bill is crucial to the future and vitality of Eastern New Mexico,” Governor Richardson said. “Today we assuring the people of Clovis, Portales, Texico, Melrose, Elida, Grady, and all points in between, that they will have the water supply they need available to them for a bright and sustainable future.”

The signing of HB 15 is an important step in building the Ute Reservoir pipeline which will deliver water from the reservoir to these communities.

“This legislation will help eastern New Mexico communities find a long-term solution to a
sustainable source of water,” said State Engineer John D’Antonio. “Eastern New Mexico
communities have come up with a cooperative solution to meet future needs that will be supplied by the renewable Ute Reservoir supply.”

The authority will be a political subdivision of the State of New Mexico and will have the power of eminent domain as well as the ability to establish rates and issue revenue bonds. A seven member board will be created to administer the authority. It will consist of three members from Clovis, two members from Portales, one member from Curry County, and one member-on a rotating basis-from Texico, Melrose, Elida, or Grady.

Contact:
Alarie Ray-Garcia, (505) 231-7350