Editor,
Much has been said by the candidates for state and federal office this fall, as the Nov. 5, 2002 general election approaches. However, very few people realize that another special election will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2002, in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho and surrounding areas.
On Sept. 17, 10 special election polling stations in Bernalillo and Sandoval Counties will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The Sept. 17 ballot features just one question: Are you For or Against the dissolution of Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District ("Ciudad").
Please note, under a 1947 state law, New Mexico Soil and Conservation district elections are only open to people who own land in the district. If you rent, you cannot vote in the Sept. 17 election. The Ciudad District includes all of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, the Villages of Tijeras, Los Ranchos and Corrales, as well as Rio Rancho and southern Sandoval County.
The election is not about property taxes, as Ciudad has never imposed a property tax in its 50-year plus existence and imposes no taxes currently. It runs on federal and state grants and an all-volunteer Board of Directors. It has one full time employee.
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If the voters decide to retain Ciudad (1 of 47 soil districts statewide), the Albuquerque area will continue to benefit from a number of on-going, grant funded, natural resource conservation projects such as: storm water diversions along I-40 to prevent water loss and flooding, the elimination of thirsty, invasive salt cedar trees along local waterways, and soil erosion prevention efforts.
If the voters dissolve Ciudad, then the Albuquerque area will lose many federal grants, which are used to address pressing local water problems.
Where to vote: Please watch the local newspapers for a list of the 10 special polling places on Sept. 17 or call 981-2400 for more information.
Brian Eagan
UNM student
