Santa Fe County residents demand water rights clarity amid developer agreements

During the Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners Regular Meeting on April 29, 2025, residents voiced significant concerns regarding water rights and the county's management of resources. The discussions highlighted frustrations over the county's handling of Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) and the implications for local water supplies.

One resident, Miss Bennett, expressed her dissatisfaction with the lengthy process of obtaining necessary documentation from the county attorney regarding water rights. After a seven-month wait, she received an unsigned directive that she described as overwhelming. Bennett urged the board to elevate the TDR process and explore creative options to help residents preserve their land and monetize their property for retirement.

Another speaker, Jack Sullivan, raised alarms about the county's recent partnership with developers to transfer water rights to an exploratory well in Rancho Viejo. He pointed out that residents on Churchill Road, who rely on shared wells, have been trying to secure county water service for 17 years without success. Sullivan argued that the transfer of water rights could severely impact their wells, which are already at risk of drying up. He called for the county to withdraw from the transfer application until residents are provided with adequate water service.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for the county to address water management issues and consider the voices of residents who are directly affected by these decisions. As the board continues to navigate these complex issues, the community is left hoping for more responsive and supportive actions that prioritize their needs and concerns.