Sandoval County seeks state funding to study water system regionalization in Placitas, Algodones
Sandoval County is applying for state funding to explore merging dozens of struggling private water systems in the Placitas and Algodones areas.
Dozens of small private water associations in the Placitas and Algodones areas could gain more reliable, sustainable water service under a regionalization effort Sandoval County commissioners unanimously backed Wednesday.
Commissioners adopted Resolution No. 4-22-26.11B, authorizing county staff to apply to the New Mexico Finance Authority’s Technical Assistance Program to fund a consultant-led feasibility study. The effort targets between 11 and 20 of the roughly 25-plus private water associations in the area. If NMFA approves the application, the study would carry no cost to the county, Deputy County Manager Eric Masterson told commissioners.
“There are something like 25 or more different water associations, private water associations, and all of them struggle with requesting capital outlay, looking for operators, failing infrastructure,” Masterson said. “We are just simply trying to coordinate the effort to get some water associations to consider this effort to improve their sustainability long term.”
Commissioner Katherine Bruch, who helped initiate the effort, said a community meeting in Placitas drew a full room of water co-op representatives. “There was a room full of people and a lot of interest,” she said. “What we don’t know is what we don’t know, and that’s why we need this consultant.”
Commissioner Joshua Jones echoed the voluntary nature of the process. “We had a lot of interest that evening. Some organizations are a little bit skeptical,” he said. “One of the pieces of work that the consultant will be doing is meeting with each individual water association to really gauge their interest level. We’re not going to force anyone’s hand in this, in any way, shape or form.”
More details
- The feasibility study would take 18 to 24 months to complete; any actual consolidation decisions would remain with the water associations.
- Participation is voluntary. Masterson said at least half the associations are expected to engage, though some remain skeptical.
- The county would serve as a coordination partner only — not become a water utility provider.
- A consultant has already begun preparing the application and scope of work.
Sandoval County Board of County Commissioners Next regular meeting: May 13, 2026