MRGCD board approves 2023 mill levy increase to help pay for critical infrastructure

Failing infrastructure has become the most significant challenge for the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District (MRGCD) in these water short times. The MRGCD does not have enough money to pay for needed infrastructure projects and is proposing a mill levy increase to help cover those costs.

On Monday, May 8th, 2023, with five of seven members present, the MRGCD Board of Directors unanimously approved the mill levy increase. Chairwoman Stephanie Russo Baca and Director Joaquin Baca were not present due to a family emergency and family obligation, respectively.

If approved by the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration, as is expected, MRGCD Customers will first see the mill levy increase on their 2023 tax bill, which goes out in November.

VIDEO: MRGCD Board Approves Mill Levy Increase

Approval Process

On March 13th, 2023, Chief Executive Officer/Chief Engineer (CEO/CE) Jason Casuga and MRGCD Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Pamela Fanelli presented a 5-year financial forecast to the MRGCD Board of Directors. In the presentation, the CEO/CE and CFO proposed increasing the mill rate by 1 mill, which would be exclusively used to pay for crucial infrastructure projects. To take much of the financial burden off taxpayers, the MRGCD financial team is also aggressively pursuing grants and planning to take out loans. If the proposed mill levy increase is approved, per state statute, the MRGCD would not be allowed to raise the mill rate for at least another five years.

For more information on the 2023 Proposed Mill Levy Increase click on the links below: