Bill > HB431

This bill modifies the Watershed District Act by changing how watershed district boards are formed, shifting from an elected to an appointed system. Specifically, watershed district boards will now be appointed by the board of supervisors of the soil and water conservation district in which the watershed district is located. The board will typically consist of five directors, with one preferably being a current or former elected watershed district director. For initial appointments, two directors will serve two-year terms and three will serve four-year terms, with subsequent appointments being four-year terms. In cases where a watershed district spans multiple soil and water conservation districts, minority jurisdiction districts can appoint three additional directors (one serving a two-year term and two serving four-year terms). The board will continue to internally elect a chair, secretary, and treasurer annually, with the treasurer required to provide an official bond. The bill also maintains existing requirements for board reporting to the department of finance and administration, and will take effect on July 1, 2025. This change aims to potentially streamline board selection and ensure more coordinated leadership in watershed district management.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=431&year=25