Community leaders demand citizen advisory board for CRUAA water issues

Residents of Sunland Park and Santa Teresa are calling for urgent action regarding ongoing water quality issues, as highlighted during the Doña Ana County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 13, 2025. Community Programs Manager Vivian Fuller and Empowerment Congress Director Daisy Maldonado voiced their concerns about the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRUAA) and its Citizens Advisory Board.

Fuller emphasized the need for the advisory board to be formed by and for the communities it serves, urging for greater representation from local residents and business owners. She reported persistent complaints about discolored and foul-smelling water, which have not been adequately addressed by CRUAA. The community is demanding a change in meeting times to allow more residents to participate and voice their concerns.

Maldonado supported Fuller’s statements, stressing that the experiences of residents regarding water quality are credible and widespread. She criticized CRUAA’s reliance on average testing results, arguing that these do not reflect the real experiences of the community. She also raised alarm over a recent arsenic test failure at a local water treatment plant, highlighting the need for accountability in ensuring safe drinking water.

Both representatives called for collaboration between Doña Ana County, the city of Sunland Park, and the community to establish a formal and autonomous advisory committee that can provide genuine feedback and guidance on water service improvements. Their appeals underscore the critical need for community involvement in addressing public health concerns and ensuring safe water access for all residents.