Lea County public meetings in 2021

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several FAA grant applications and amendments for local airports. The meeting includes votes on board appointments and a budget adjustment for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Commissioners will also discuss the county's financial reports and communication authority.

• FAA grant applications and PAPI installation amendments for Zip Franklin Memorial and Lea County Jal airports
• Work permit for Dawson Geophysical Company to operate on Section 31, Township 14 South, Range 36 East
• Budget Adjustment No. 03 for Fiscal Year 2021-2022
• Appointments to the Airports Advisory Board, Planning & Zoning Board, and Roads Advisory Committee
• Modification to Grant No. G21SN0017A decreasing funds for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Region VI

The Lea County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several routine items, including the November 18 meeting minutes, appointments to advisory boards, travel authorizations, and a budget adjustment. They also approved a HIDTA grant modification, a geophysical work permit, and multiple FAA grant applications and amendments for county airports. A resident's request for road repairs on Oak Ave. was referred to the assistant county manager for follow-up.

• Approved Nov 18, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved appointments to Airports Advisory Board (5-0)
• Approved appointments to Planning and Zoning Board (5-0)
• Approved appointments to Roads Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Approved appointments to Extraterritorial Zoning Commission (5-0)
• Approved in-state travel to Santa Fe for NMC conference (5-0)
• Approved out-of-state travel to Washington D.C. for NAC conference (5-0)
• Approved HIDTA grant modification decreasing funds (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider funding for police hardware and several agreements regarding dispatching costs for local municipalities. The body will also review salary adjustments and discuss potential ordinances regarding noise and dilapidated buildings.

• Funding up to $150,000.00 for Mobile Data Terminal Units and hardware for Lovington Police Department
• Donation of four Ford Interceptor SUVs from Lea County Sheriff’s Office to Lovington Police Department
• Memorandums of Agreement for dispatching funding with Hobbs, Eunice, Jal, Lovington, and Tatum
• Salary ranges and adjustments for certain County Departments, the Sheriff’s Office, and the Communication Authority
• Discussion of county-wide noise and dangerous and dilapidated buildings ordinances

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved all action items on the agenda, including $150,000 in discretionary funding for mobile data terminal units for the Lovington Police Department, and agreements to fund Lea County Communication Authority dispatching for the cities of Hobbs, Eunice, Jal, Lovington, and Tatum. The board also approved salary ranges and adjustments for certain county departments, the LCCA, and the Sheriff's Office, and authorized several out-of-state trips for county staff. The appointment to the Roads Advisory Committee was postponed to the December meeting.

• Approved minutes from Nov 4 and Nov 10 meetings
• Approved appointment to Environmental Services Advisory Committee
• Postponed Roads Advisory Committee appointments to December
• Approved $150,000 for Lovington Police mobile data terminals
• Approved out-of-state travel for IAFE and PRCA conventions
• Approved PERA return-to-work change request
• Donated 4 Ford Interceptor SUVs to Lovington Police
• Approved LCCA dispatching agreements with 5 cities and HR/salary changes

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will convene as the Lea County Canvassing Board. The body will consider a resolution to certify the canvass of the November 2, 2021 Regular Local Election.

• Resolution No. 21-NOV-255R regarding the certification of the November 2, 2021 Regular Local Election

The Board of County Commissioners approved Resolution No. 21-NOV-255R, certifying the canvass of the November 2, 2021, Regular Local Election. The motion passed unanimously among the four commissioners present, with Commissioner Pat Sims absent. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-NOV-255R certifying the November 2, 2021 election canvass (4-0, Sims absent)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will vote on several administrative appointments and the approval of county commission districts. The body is also deciding on funding and contracts for the 2022 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo and a budget adjustment for fiscal year 2021-2022.

• Resolution 21-NOV-248R: Approving Commission Districts for Lea County
• Resolution 21-NOV-249R: $7,000.00 payout for WPRA Women’s Breakaway Roping
• Resolution 21-NOV-254R: Budget Adjustment No. 02 Fiscal Year 2021-2022
• Resolution 21-NOV-253R: Submission of Capital Outlay Requests for 2022 Legislative Session
• Appointments to Airports, DWI, Environmental Services, Fair & Rodeo, Memorial, and Roads boards

The Lea County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved all agenda items, including the 2022 meeting schedule, appointments to several advisory boards, commission districts, and various Fair & Rodeo-related agreements. They also approved a budget adjustment and authorized out-of-state travel for economic development. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved Oct 21, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved 2022 meeting dates (5-0)
• Approved appointments to Airports Advisory Board, DWI Council, Environmental Services, Fair & Rodeo, Memorial, and Roads committees (5-0 each)
• Approved commission districts for Lea County (5-0)
• Approved $7,000 payout for WPRA Women's Breakaway Roping at 2022 Fair & Rodeo (5-0)
• Approved renewal of entertainment booking agency agreement with Linda Brown & Associates (5-0)
• Approved agreement with Andy Steward as rodeo announcer for 2022 Fair & Rodeo (5-0)
• Approved out-of-state travel to Missouri for economic development (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting to decide on several high-value grants and facility contracts. Key items include funding for the historic courthouse and detention center, as well as various infrastructure repairs.

• Approval of $6.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 funding
• $1 million grant for the Lea County Historic Courthouse
• $1 million grant for a Lea County Detention Center addition
• Finding a building at 201 East Teague, Hobbs, NM to be a menace to the public
• Lifting the hiring freeze for five positions

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to use $6.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding, along with several other resolutions including land transfers, grant agreements, and facility contracts. They also postponed appointments to the DWI Advisory Council and approved a proclamation for Cactus Cowbelles Month. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the minutes approval.

• Approved $6.9M ARPA funding use (5-0)
• Approved $1M grant for Historic Courthouse renovation (5-0)
• Approved $1M grant for Detention Center addition (5-0)
• Approved lifting hiring freeze for 5 positions and reclassification (5-0)
• Approved transfer of 2 fire apparatus vehicles to Lovington (5-0)
• Approved HVAC study at Detention Center ($192,000) (5-0)
• Approved Honeywell agreement to replace 37 HVAC units at Detention Center (5-0)
• Approved Roofcare roof system at Detention Center and Event Center (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several grant modifications for drug trafficking task forces and contracts for the 2022 Lea County Fair and PRCA Rodeo. The body is also considering road infrastructure projects and land acquisition for a fire substation.

• Road widening and overlay on Battle Axe Road for $366,592.00 and $310,518.00
• Safer New Mexico DWI Grant and Safety Funds totaling $25,783.00
• Land acquisition for Maljamar Fire Substation from Branch Ranch, LLC
• 25% rate increase for box seats at the Lea County Fair and Rodeo
• Approval of preliminary plat for High Lonesome, Unit 4 and final plat for Mesquite Draw Subdivision

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved a series of resolutions covering meeting minutes, appointments, grant modifications, road and airport contracts, land acquisition, and subdivision plats. A proposed 25% rate increase for box seats at the Lea County Fair & Rodeo was denied unanimously. The board also entered executive session to discuss threatened and pending litigation.

• Approved minutes for Sept 2 special, Sept 2 regular, and Sept 9 special meetings (4-0)
• Approved appointments to DWI Advisory Council, including John Fray for District 5 (4-0)
• Approved three HIDTA grant modifications increasing funds (4-0 each)
• Approved 2022 Fair & Rodeo contracts: Epicenter Productions, Pete Carr Pro Rodeo, Ted Harbin, Jacob King, Clay Heger, Peggy Gander (4-0 each)
• Denied 25% box seat rate increase for 2022 Fair & Rodeo (0-4)
• Approved Aug 3, 2022 as Free Admission day at Fair & Rodeo (4-0)
• Approved precinct boundaries for 2022-2023 elections (4-0)
• Approved road contracts: asphalt patch to Pavement Sealants, striping to Highway Supply, Battle Axe Road overlay to Constructors Inc. ($366,592 and $310,518) (4-0 each)

Board of County Commissioners

The Lea County Board of County Commissioners is holding a special meeting to consider a resolution regarding property tax rates. The body will review the imposition of the 2021 State of New Mexico Property Tax Rates for the county.

• Resolution No. 21-SEP-193R regarding 2021 State of New Mexico Property Tax Rates

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved Resolution No. 21-SEP-193R, ordering the County Assessor to impose the 2021 State of New Mexico property tax rates. The vote was 4-0, with one commissioner absent. No other business was conducted.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-SEP-193R ordering the Assessor to impose 2021 property tax rates (4-0, Sena absent)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will review several contracts for the 2022 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo and road improvements on Battle Axe Road. The body will also consider grant modifications for drug trafficking task forces and various land use plat approvals.

• Road widening and overlay on Battle Axe Road: $366,592.00 for 1.0 miles from Orla Road and $310,518.00 for 1.0 miles from NM128
• Safer New Mexico DWI Grant and Safety Funds application for $25,783.00
• 25% rate increase for box seats at the Lea County Fair & Rodeo
• Approval of Preliminary Plat for High Lonesome, Unit 4 and Final Plat for Mesquite Draw Subdivision
• Land acquisition for Maljamar Fire Substation from Branch Ranch, LLC

The Lea County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved all action items, including resolutions for a JAG grant MOU with Hobbs, a Taser 7 purchase agreement, the Infrastructure Capital Improvements Plan, a detainee commissary contract renewal, the procurement policy, budget adjustment, and an indigent burial report. A street vacation request was postponed. The board also entered executive session to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-183R approving August 19, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-184R opposing NM Executive Order 2021-052 (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-185R JAG grant MOU with City of Hobbs (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-186R Axon Taser 7 purchase agreement (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-187R Infrastructure Capital Improvements Plan FY2023-2027 (5-0)
• Postponed Resolution 21-SEP-188R street vacation in Chula Vista Subdivision (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-189R Keefe Commissary contract renewal (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-SEP-190R Procurement Policy (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is convening as the Lea County Canvassing Board. The body will consider a resolution to certify the results of two school district tax elections held on August 24, 2021.

• Resolution No. 21-SEP-182R certifying the Hobbs Municipal School District 16 Special Public School Capital Improvements Tax Election
• Certification of the Special Public School Buildings Tax Election

The Lea County Board of Commissioners, convening as the Canvassing Board, unanimously approved Resolution No. 21-SEP-182R, certifying the canvass of the August 24, 2021 Hobbs Municipal School District 16 special public school capital improvements and buildings tax elections. The vote was 5-0. No other business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-SEP-182R certifying the canvass of the August 24, 2021 Hobbs Municipal School District 16 special public school tax elections (5-0 vote)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several resolutions regarding grant funding, infrastructure projects, and public safety equipment. The body will also discuss the county's financial reports and a long-term infrastructure capital improvements plan.

• Agreement to accept $6.9 million from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
• Task order with Constructors Inc to widen and overlay 1.0 miles of Battle Axe Road
• Purchase of two vehicles for the Lea County Drug Task Force
• Purchase of a 30,000 gallon water tank for Maljamar Fire District and Mescalero Water System
• Renewal of banking and P-Card services agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved all resolutions on the agenda, including accepting $6.9 million from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, renewing the Wells Fargo banking agreement, and approving a road overlay contract. All votes were unanimous (5-0). The board also discussed several items, including the detention center report and the county's financial report, but took no action on them.

• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-165R approving July 22, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-166R amending 2021 meeting dates (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-167R supporting minimizing changes to NM congressional districts (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-168R supporting local school board control (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-169R accepting HIDTA grant modification (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-170R purchasing two vehicles for Drug Task Force (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-171R renewing Wells Fargo banking agreement (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-AUG-172R accepting $6.9M from American Rescue Plan Act (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider the final budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 and the final quarter financial report for the previous year. The body is also reviewing several airport grants, road agreements, and facility maintenance contracts.

• Approval of the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Final Budget
• MOU with City of Hobbs for commercial air service/airline subsidy at Lea County Regional Airport
• Professional services agreement with Superior Security Services, LLC for the 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo
• Maintenance agreements with Otis Elevator Company and Honeywell Building Solutions for county facilities
• Vacation and abandonment of a dedicated alley in Air Base City Subdivision

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved the FY 2021-2022 final budget and numerous resolutions, including opposing the federal 30x30 land initiative, approving airport grants and agreements, and authorizing travel and contracts. All votes were unanimous except one 3-2 vote on the Safety Net Care Pool Fund payment. One item, the alley vacation in Air Base City Subdivision, was postponed.

• Adopted FY 2021-2022 final budget (5-0)
• Approved FY 2020-2021 final quarter financial report (5-0)
• Opposed federal 30x30 land initiative (5-0)
• Approved MOU with City of Hobbs for airline subsidy (5-0)
• Approved FAA grant applications for airport projects (5-0)
• Approved security services contract for fair & rodeo (5-0)
• Approved Safety Net Care Pool payment (3-2)
• Postponed alley vacation in Air Base City Subdivision (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several resolutions regarding infrastructure projects and election administration. The body will also discuss the county judicial complex and the historic courthouse remodel.

• Award of Kansas Street Reconstruction contract to Constructors, Inc.
• Survey and design contract with Pettigrew & Associates for Alabama Street reconstruction (5.3 miles)
• Creation of new precincts and approval of polling places for 2022–2023 elections
• Agreement with U.S. Department of the Treasury for Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund
• Change order with Bixby Electric, Inc. for electrical upgrades at Lea County Jal Airport

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved resolutions creating new precincts and adjusting boundaries, and approving precincts and polling places for the 2022-2023 elections. They also approved an equipment recording fee for the County Clerk's department, a submittal agreement for the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, and several other action items. A resolution on Planning & Zoning Board appointments was postponed. The board also entered executive session to discuss personnel and litigation matters.

• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-119R creating new precincts and adjusting precinct boundaries.
• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-120R approving precincts and polling places for 2022-2023 elections.
• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-121R approving an equipment recording fee in the County Clerk's department.
• Postponed Resolution 21-JUN-118R on Planning & Zoning Board appointments.
• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-122R submitting an agreement to the U.S. Treasury for the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund.
• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-123R authorizing in-state travel to the NM Oil & Gas Association 2021 Annual Meeting.
• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-124R approving the entertainment concert lineup for the 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo.
• Approved Resolution 21-JUN-125R approving Change Order No. 01 with Bixby Electric for PAPI installation at Jal Airport.

Communications Authority

This meeting has no agenda available; only minutes are referenced for review. No decisions or discussions are listed for this session.

The Lea County Communication Authority Board approved the FY 2021-22 budget as presented, which includes salaries, merit increases, a cost of living increase, and longevity pay. The board also approved the minutes from the May 19, 2021 meeting. No public comments were made, and the next meeting was scheduled for July 21, 2021.

• Approved May 19, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2021-22 budget as presented (unanimous)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners is meeting to adopt a preliminary budget and establish operational and capital reserves. The body will also consider multiple joint service and environmental agreements with local cities and towns.

• Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2021-2022
• Joint Service Agreements with Hobbs ($625,000), Lovington ($300,000), Eunice ($125,000), Jal ($112,500), and Tatum ($87,500)
• Agreement with Nor-Lea Hospital District for $840,000 for medical/mental health care at the Detention Center
• Environmental Services Agreements of $72,000 each for Eunice, Jal, Lovington, and Tatum
• General Fund appropriation of $25,000 to the Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved multiple joint service agreements with the cities of Eunice, Hobbs, Jal, Lovington, and Tatum, totaling over $1.4 million, and also approved several financial and operational resolutions. The board postponed appointments to the Planning & Zoning Board and an agreement with Nor-Lea Hospital District for detention center medical care. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved joint service agreements with Eunice ($125,000), Hobbs ($625,000), Jal ($112,500), Lovington ($300,000), and Tatum ($87,500) (5-0)
• Approved environmental services agreements with Eunice, Jal, Lovington, and Tatum, each $72,000 (5-0)
• Postponed appointment(s) to the Lea County Planning & Zoning Board (5-0)
• Postponed agreement with Nor-Lea Hospital District for $840,000 for medical/mental health care at detention center (5-0)
• Approved operational reserve equal to 12 months of General Fund operations (5-0)
• Approved operational reserve equal to 12 months of transfers for operations (5-0)
• Approved capital reserve of no less than 15% of budgeted capital (5-0)
• Approved $25,000 appropriation to Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance (5-0)

Communications Authority

This meeting has no agenda available; it appears to be procedural only. The agenda text states 'No Agenda' and directs readers to review the minutes.

The Lea County Communication Authority Board approved the minutes from the April 14, 2021 meeting unanimously. The board discussed the 988 crisis hotline, staffing vacancies, and other operational updates, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved April 14, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several service contracts and funding approvals for the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The meeting includes discussions on the county's quarterly cash report and preliminary budget. A closed session is scheduled to discuss pending litigation regarding HB Construction.

• RFP No. 04 2020-2021 for County-Wide Care and Maintenance of Sick and Indigent
• RFP No. 05 2020-2021 for County-Wide Economic Development Services
• Funding for NMSU Extension Office, Lea Soil & Water Conservation District, and USDA APHIS-WS
• Merit/Cost of Living (COLA) increase for Lea County employees
• Purchase of an Etnyre Chip Spreader from Cooper Equipment

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved several resolutions, including awarding contracts for sick/indigent care and economic development services, funding for NMSU Extension and other agencies, a merit/COLA increase for county employees, a proclamation for National Correctional Officers Week, purchase of an Etnyre chip spreader, and the indigent claims burial/cremation report. The board also approved the April 22, 2021 meeting minutes and entered executive session to discuss pending litigation. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on the sick/indigent care contract.

• Approved April 22, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Awarded RFP for county-wide care and maintenance of sick and indigent for FY2021-22 (4-0-1, Sena abstained)
• Awarded RFP for county-wide economic development services for FY2021-22 (5-0)
• Approved government agency funding for NMSU Extension, Lea Soil & Water Conservation District, and USDA APHIS-WS for FY2021-22 (5-0)
• Approved merit/COLA increase for Lea County employees for FY2021-22 (5-0)
• Proclaimed May 2-8, 2021 as National Correctional Officers Week (5-0)
• Approved purchase of Etnyre chip spreader from Cooper Equipment via Buyboard (5-0)
• Approved Lea County Indigent Claims Burial/Cremation Report (5-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several resolutions regarding land leases, airport improvements, and state funding. The body will also discuss the FY 2021-2022 budget and financial reports.

• Lease agreement with Nor-Lea Hospital District for property at 1923 North Dal Paso, Hobbs
• Fiscal agency for $90,000 state appropriation to Lovington MainStreet for Gateway and Wayfinding Project
• Land acquisition for Lea County Maljamar Volunteer Fire Substation from Branch Ranch, LLC
• Aviation grant for an emergency generator for airfield lighting at Lea County Regional Airport
• Resolution requesting New Mexico join a lawsuit against the federal government regarding oil and gas leasing moratorium

The Lea County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution requesting the State of New Mexico join a lawsuit with other Western states against the federal government regarding a moratorium on oil and gas leasing. The board also approved several other resolutions, including a lease agreement with Nor-Lea Hospital District for property to expand medical services, and various airport, fire, and road-related items. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved Resolution 21-APR-080R approving April 8, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-081R requesting state join lawsuit against federal oil and gas leasing moratorium (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-082R lease agreement with Nor-Lea Hospital District for property at 1923 North Dal Paso, Hobbs (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-083R authorizing county as fiscal agent for $90,000 state appropriation to Lovington MainStreet (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-084R aviation grant agreement for emergency generator at Lea County Regional Airport (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-085R change order for airport terminal expansion project (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-086R land acquisition for Maljamar Volunteer Fire Substation (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-088R participation in Buyboard National Purchasing Cooperative (5-0)

Communications Authority

This meeting has no agenda available. The agenda text states only that there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes.

• No agenda items listed

The Lea County Communication Authority Board approved the March 10, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. The board discussed a director's report showing 11,950 total calls in March 2021, five open positions, and a pay disparity for non-certified dispatchers ($16/hour at LCCA vs. $22/hour in Carlsbad). They also discussed Senate Bill 403, which would reclassify dispatchers under PERA, but took no formal action on it.

• Approved March 10, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for May 19, 2021 at 9:30 a.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 10:13 a.m. (7-0)

Fair & Rodeo Board

The Board will review meeting minutes and hear public comments. Action items include setting the 2021 Livestock Sale start time and approving a $6,000 Entercom Digital Advertising package.

• Approval of 2021 Livestock Sale start time of 9:00 am
• $6,000 Entercom Digital Advertising package
• Horse Department exception regarding prospect yearlings for the 2021 Horse show

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will discuss the FY 2021–2022 budget and consider several service agreements for the 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo. The body will also review security upgrades for the detention center and a property vacation in the Oil Center Townsite.

• Agreement with HD Veterinary Services, LLC for 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo
• Agreement with Leslie Wills as Stock Contractor for the Lea County Local Team Roping Event
• Sourcewell Contract with Stanley Convergent Security Solutions for detention center security boards
• Vacation and abandonment of dedicated alley in Oil Center Townsite, Block 2
• Lea County Indigent Claims Burial/Cremation Report

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved all action items on the agenda, including agreements for veterinarian services and a stock contractor for the 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo, a proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, a contract to upgrade security control boards at the detention center, the vacation of an alley in Oil Center, and the indigent claims burial/cremation report. The board also approved the minutes from the March 18, 2021 meeting. A discussion was held on the FY 2021-2022 budget, and the board convened in executive session to discuss threatened litigation involving revenue.

• Approved Resolution 21-APR-074R approving the March 18, 2021 regular meeting minutes.
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-075R authorizing an agreement with HD Veterinary Services, LLC for veterinarian services during the 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo.
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-076R authorizing an agreement with Leslie Willis as stock contractor for the local team roping event during the 2021 Lea County Fair & PRCA Rodeo.
• Approved a proclamation recognizing April 11-17, 2021 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-077R approving a Sourcewell contract with Stanley Convergent Security Solutions to upgrade security control boards at the Lea County Detention Center.
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-078R declaring the vacation and abandonment of a dedicated alley in Oil Center Townsite.
• Approved Resolution 21-APR-079R approving the Lea County Indigent Claims Burial/Cremation Report.
• Convened in executive session to discuss threatened litigation involving revenue.

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several FAA grants for airports and a road overlay project. The body will also discuss the FY 2021-2022 budget and the American Rescue Plan Act.

• Four FAA Grant Applications/Agreements (HOB-C, HOB, E26, E06) associated with the CARES ACT
• Change Order No. 05 with Lasco Construction for the Lea County Regional Airport Terminal Expansion Project
• Task Order with Constructors, Inc. for a Tom Overlay on County Road 1 (Orla Roadway) for 1.6 miles
• Set-Back Variance for Green Meadows Subdivision, Unit 2, Block 6, Lot 11B
• Grant Agreement No. G21SN0017A with the Office of National Drug Policy for the HIDTA Region VI Drug Task Force

The Lea County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved all action items, including a HIDTA drug task force grant agreement, several FAA CARES Act airport grant applications, a change order for the airport terminal expansion, a road overlay task order, a set-back variance, and appointments to a freeholders committee. The board also approved the certification of fixed assets and the Safety Net Care Pool Fund payment, the latter with a 3-2 vote. Discussions were held on the American Rescue Plan Act and the FY 2021-2022 budget, but no decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved March 4, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved HIDTA Region VI Drug Task Force grant agreement (5-0)
• Approved Change Order No. 05 for airport terminal expansion (5-0)
• Approved four FAA CARES Act airport grant applications (5-0 each)
• Approved road overlay task order for County Road 1 (5-0)
• Approved set-back variance for Green Meadows Subdivision (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Freeholders Committee for alley vacation in Oil Center (5-0)
• Approved Safety Net Care Pool Fund payment (3-2)

Communications Authority

This meeting has no agenda available; only minutes are referenced for review. No decisions or discussions are listed.

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the February 17, 2021 meeting. They discussed the LCCA director's report, including call volumes, staffing, and the upcoming budget, and talked about updating the Emergency Operations Plan and improving inter-agency coordination.

• Approved the February 17, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Scheduled the next meeting for April 14, 2021 at 9:30 a.m.

Fair & Rodeo Board

The Lea County Fair and Rodeo Board is meeting to approve service providers for 2021 events. The board will also discuss digital advertising and the start time for the livestock sale.

• Approval of 2021 Local Team Roping producer, Leslie Wills
• Approval of 2021 Veterinarian, HD Veterinary Services, Shanna LaCount
• Discussion of 2021 Entercom Digital Advertising
• Discussion of 2021 Livestock Sale start time

The Lea County Fair and Rodeo Board approved Leslie Wills as the 2021 Local Team Roping Producer and HD Veterinary Services as the 2021 Veterinarian for $8,400. The board also discussed but did not decide on digital advertising and livestock sale start time, recommending a $6,000 ad proposal and a 9 a.m. start.

• Approved the February 8, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Approved Leslie Wills as the 2021 Local Team Roping Producer unanimously.
• Approved HD Veterinary Services as the 2021 Veterinarian for $8,400 unanimously.
• Discussed 2021 Entercom Digital Advertising, recommending a proposal around $6,000 (no formal action).
• Discussed 2021 Livestock Sale Start Time, leaning toward 9 a.m. (no formal action).

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several resolutions including funding for a veterans memorial and courthouse renovations. The board will also discuss the FY 2021–2022 budget and threats to the local oil and gas industry.

• Resolution 21-MAR-050R: $300,000 financial commitment to the City of Hobbs for a Veterans Memorial
• Resolution 21-MAR-053R: Grant Agreement No. E2595 for Lea County Courthouse Renovations
• Resolution 21-MAR-056R: Vacation of dedicated right of way on 25th Street, south of Elm Street
• Resolution 21-MAR-057R: Budget Adjustment No. 02 FY 2020-2021
• Resolution 21-MAR-058R: Appointment of Edmundo R. Lara II as Facilities Director

The Lea County Board of Commissioners approved all resolutions on its agenda, including a $300,000 financial commitment to the City of Hobbs for constructing a veterans memorial. The board also approved appointments, a law enforcement funding application, an investment policy, a courthouse renovation grant, an insurance broker award, out-of-state travel, a right-of-way vacation, a budget adjustment, and the appointment of Edmundo R. Lara II as Facilities Director. The board held an executive session to discuss personnel and potential litigation. All votes were unanimous except for the right-of-way vacation, which passed 3-2.

• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-050: $300,000 commitment to City of Hobbs for a veterans memorial.
• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-047R: Minutes of the February 18, 2021 regular meeting.
• Approved Resolutions 21-MAR-048R and 21-MAR-049R: Appointments to the Planning & Zoning Board and New Horizons Foundation Board.
• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-051R: Application for Law Enforcement Protection Funds (LEPF) for FY 2021-2022.
• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-052R: Investment policy for Lea County.
• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-053R: Grant agreement for Lea County Courthouse renovations.
• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-054R: Award of multi-term insurance broker contract.
• Approved Resolution 21-MAR-056R: Vacation of a right-of-way on 25th Street in the Five-O Subdivision (passed 3-2).

Board of County Commissioners

The Lea County Board of County Commissioners will meet to discuss the FY 2021-2022 budget and January 2021 financial reports. The board is deciding on several resolutions, including HVAC replacements and the appointment of a committee to evaluate a right-of-way vacation.

• Resolution 21-FEB-045R to lift the hiring freeze for seven positions, including dispatchers and a firefighter
• Resolution 21-FEB-044R for a CES Agreement with Honeywell International to replace six HVAC units at the Lea County Detention Center
• Resolution 21-FEB-046R to appoint a Freeholders Committee regarding the vacation of 25th Street south of Elm Street in the Five-O Subdivision
• Resolution 21-FEB-042R to confirm appointments to the Lovington – Lea County Extraterritorial Zoning Commission
• Discussion of projected expenses for the FY 2021-2022 budget

The Lea County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved all six resolutions on the agenda, including approving the February 4 meeting minutes, confirming appointments to the extraterritorial zoning commission, approving the indigent claims burial/cremation report, a CES agreement with Honeywell to replace six HVAC units at the detention center, lifting the hiring freeze for seven county positions, and appointing a freeholders committee to evaluate a right-of-way vacation. The board also received presentations on the drug task force, traffic calming, and budget/financial reports, but took no action on those discussion items.

• Approved Resolution 21-FEB-041R approving Feb 4, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-FEB-042R confirming appointments to Lovington-Lea County Extraterritorial Zoning Commission (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-FEB-043R approving Indigent Claims Burial/Cremation Report (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-FEB-044R approving CES agreement with Honeywell to replace six HVAC units at detention center (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-FEB-045R lifting hiring freeze for seven positions (dispatchers, maintenance tech, custodian, airport firefighter, environmental tech) (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-FEB-046R appointing freeholders committee to evaluate vacation of right-of-way on 25th Street in Five-O Subdivision (5-0)

Communications Authority

There is no agenda available for this meeting of the Lea County Communications Authority. The record indicates that there are no items listed for discussion or decision.

The Lea County Communication Authority board approved the minutes of the February 3, 2021 meeting and renewed the audit contract with Scott Northam, CPA, PC for a final term at $7,590.56. The board discussed the potential membership of the City of Lovington in LCCA, including costs and infrastructure, but took no formal action. They also reviewed the preliminary FY2021-2022 budget, noting personnel costs were not yet included. The next meeting was set for March 10, 2021.

• Approved February 3, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved renewal of audit contract with Scott Northam, CPA, PC at $7,590.56 (5-0)

Fair & Rodeo Board

The Lea County Fair and Rodeo Board will meet to review the January 11, 2021 meeting minutes and consider two action items. The board will also receive reports from the Rodeo, Queen, and Buckle & Award committees.

• Approval of 2021 Entercom Digital Advertising (Harry Harlan)
• Approval of 2021 Livestock Rule updates to add a Baker Class and 2 sale slots for Rabbits

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will consider several resolutions regarding board appointments and policy positions on state and federal legislation. The body is also deciding on personnel matters, including a longevity incentive plan and hiring for the Sheriff's Office.

• Resolution 21-FEB-035R: Lifting the hiring freeze for two positions in the Lea County Sheriff’s Office
• Resolution 21-FEB-036R: Implementation of a Longevity Incentive Plan for county employees
• Resolution 21-FEB-040R: Cooperative Educational Services proposal from Lasco Construction for the Lea County Judicial Complex
• Resolution 21-FEB-039R: Notice of hearing to adopt amendments to Personnel Ordinance Number 89
• Resolution 21-FEB-038R: Application for the FY 2022 Local DWI Grant and Distribution Program

Communications Authority

This meeting has no agenda available; it appears to be procedural only. The agenda text states there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes.

The Lea County Communication Authority board unanimously approved the 2019-2020 audit, which reported $789,642 in cash and $9,176,078 in capital assets, with no findings. The board also approved the January 6, 2021 meeting minutes. No other formal actions were taken; remaining items were informational discussions.

• Approved January 6, 2021 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved 2019-2020 LCCA Audit (7-0)

Board of County Commissioners

The Board of County Commissioners will elect a Chair and Vice Chair and confirm appointments to various county boards and committees. The body will also consider the FY 2019-2020 financial audit and the budget development timeline for FY 2021-2022.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair for the Board of County Commissioners
• Resolution 21-JAN-018R: Approval of Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Budget Development and Timeline
• Resolution 21-JAN-020R: Amending bid for five non-potable water storage tanks for Knowles and Monument Fire Stations to Watson Truck and Supply
• Resolution 21-JAN-021R: Approval of Final Plat for Sweet Home on Alabama Subdivision, Unit 2
• Resolution 21-JAN-022R: Approval of maintenance for Blue Skies Street in Sweet Home on Alabama Subdivision, Unit 2

Fair & Rodeo Board

The Lea County Fair and Rodeo Board is meeting to review 2021 livestock rules and a small stage act. The board will also consider the approval of meeting minutes from October 14, 2020.

• Approval of 2021 Additional Small Stage Act
• Livestock rule updates including adding 2 sale slots for Meat Goats
• Removal of Horse Department English classes and speed events
• Rescheduling of Horse Department Classes 100 and 101 to August 5th

Communications Authority

This meeting has no agenda available. The only item listed is a note directing readers to review the minutes for information.

• No agenda items listed

The Lea County Communication Authority Board elected Hobbs Deputy Police Chief August Fons as the seventh member, Lorenzo Velasquez as Secretary, and Kevin Shearer as Vice Chairman, all by unanimous votes. The Board also approved the September 30, 2020 meeting minutes. No public comments were made, and no other substantive decisions were taken.

• Elected August Fons as seventh Board member (6-0)
• Elected Lorenzo Velasquez as LCCA Secretary (6-0)
• Elected Kevin Shearer as LCCA Vice Chairman (6-0)
• Approved September 30, 2020 meeting minutes (6-0)