Doña Ana County terminates utility agreement with Sunland Park

County says it will work with city leaders on a transition plan for Camino Real Regional Utility Authority

Organ Mountain News report

SUNLAND PARK – The Doña Ana County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to terminate the joint powers agreement that created the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority, which manages water and wastewater services in Sunland Park and nearby areas.

The decision was made during the commission’s May 13 meeting, with Chair Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez describing it as “for the mutual benefit of all parties.” The county cited Section 15 of the 2024 version of the joint powers agreement in its vote to dissolve the partnership.

County officials said they delivered immediate notice to the City of Sunland Park following the vote and will follow up with formal written notification.

The decision comes amid mounting concerns about CRRUA's water quality and regulatory compliance. Earlier this year, the utility came under scrutiny for exceeding federal arsenic limits in parts of its service area, prompting frustration from residents and heightened oversight from the state.

CRRUA will continue to operate while county and city staff work to develop a transition plan and divide the agency’s assets and debts. It remains unclear how long the process will take, though officials say they intend to assess the utility system’s condition and determine service needs during the transition.

“We are committed to being transparent in this process and keeping utility customers informed,” said County Manager Scott Andrews. “We will also explore ways in which we can provide short-term assistance to residents.”

Andrews said the county plans to work closely with state stakeholders — including the Governor’s Office and the New Mexico Border Authority — to ensure a coordinated transition.

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