NEWS RELEASE: Las Vegas City Council Votes to Partner with State of New Mexico to Expedite Water Treatment Facilities
- asalas843
- Jun 25
- 4 min read
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2025
Media Contact:
Amanda C. Salas
Mayor Liaison/PIO
505-426-5703
Las Vegas City Council Votes to Partner with State of New Mexico to Expedite Water Treatment Facilities
Las Vegas, NM — In a special meeting today, the Las Vegas City Council voted to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the State of New Mexico to fast-track the development of both temporary and permanent water treatment facilities for the city’s municipal water system.
The agreement, which had been tabled during last week’s regular council meeting to allow time for further negotiations with state officials, is viewed by city leaders as a critical step toward addressing the aging and fire-damaged water infrastructure within the City of Las Vegas. Significantly impacted by the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, the city’s water system has faced serious challenges in ensuring long-term access to clean, reliable water for residents.
The IGA aims to streamline collaboration between the city and key state agencies, including the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM), and the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA). The agreement enables the construction of both temporary and permanent water treatment facilities and provides for technical expertise and staffing support from the state to accelerate progress.
Discussions leading to the agreement began in late May during a town hall hosted by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. At the event, the governor reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to supporting Las Vegas in its recovery and acknowledged residents' concerns over delays in water system development. City leaders responded quickly by initiating formal talks with state agencies the following day, ultimately leading to today’s council vote.
While the agreement was approved, it followed thoughtful discussion among council members about oversight, transparency, and public perception. Councilor Barbara Perea-Casey raised concerns about contract language and public communication. She acknowledged the city’s efforts to improve transparency but stressed the need for continued clarity and accountability. “I want people to understand that while I am here on this council, everything that I do is focused on what is best for the community, not for myself,” she said.
Councilman Marvin Martinez emphasized the importance of Las Vegas maintaining its role as an equal and active partner. He urged that the IGA reflect a comprehensive approach, addressing not only the new treatment facility but also critical upgrades to the city’s water distribution and wastewater systems. “I want to reassure the public—the people of our community—that if we are going into this agreement, we are going to get a project that is complete and not pieced,” he stated.
City Water Director Travis Martinez spoke to the complexity and long-term vision of the project. He underscored that the partnership with the state would help the city navigate permitting processes and ensure lasting results. “It does take time and this is a big undertaking. Me and my staff want something that lasts. We don’t want to jump into something. We want something that lasts for the next 30 to 40 years so the next generation comes in and they don’t have to worry about the situation that we are going through. In order to spend this money, we need to do it the right way and do it right the first time.”
Councilman David Ulibarri reflected on the broader importance of the agreement, noting the city’s long-standing struggles with water infrastructure. “This is a very important document. The Hermits Peak fires ruined the facility, but now we have a document that will help us for many years. We have had water problems for as long as I have been around. Hopefully we can go the next 40 to 50 years without problems,” he said.
Mayor David Romero further clarified the nature of the agreement, emphasizing its collaborative spirit while addressing concerns. “It is very clear in this MOU that this is not a takeover. This is an agreement for working together—a partnership with the State of New Mexico. The $98 million will still be in the city’s coffers. There will be a disbursement basis for any consultants or expertise the city brings. This is a joint partnership, not a takeover. A lot of work has been done, and I know moving forward it will remain a partnership.”
Echoing that sentiment, City Manager Robert A. Anaya added, “While the state may have the lead rope, the city still has its hands on the reins,” reinforcing the city's commitment to shared leadership throughout the project.
In August 2024, City of Las Vegas was officially awarded $98 million out $140 million that was allocated to the City of Las Vegas by Congress intended to help the City of Las Vegas replace water treatment facilities. City officials said this agreement marks a major step in putting those funds to use—rebuilding essential infrastructure, restoring water quality, and strengthening the long-term sustainability of the municipal water system.
Councilman Michael Montoya highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting its unprecedented nature. “This is monumental. I don’t think the state has ever made an agreement like this with any other municipality or town or community of this magnitude,” he said.
The City of Las Vegas will continue to update the public on developments as this critical infrastructure project moves forward.
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