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Commission approves HDR contract for county-owned electric utility feasibility study
Summary
The commission awarded a 90-day feasibility study contract to HDR Engineering to evaluate options for a county-owned public electric utility, approved a $165,000 budget adjustment to fund the work, and directed staff to ensure community engagement and review second-phase funding needs.
The Santa Fe County commission voted May 12 to award agreement 2026-0159-CMO to HDR Engineering for a feasibility study evaluating a potential county-owned public electric utility. The procurement process received six proposals and shortlisted HDR and Baker Tilly; staff recommended HDR based on local presence and an agnostic approach to possible outcomes.
Procurement staff described the evaluation criteria, which emphasized experience working with rural, tribal and local governments and knowledge of the New Mexico context. County staff said the contract is a 90-day study with an anticipated completion around August 2026 if work begins in May; the board also approved a $165,000 budget adjustment to cover the contract and contingency expenses, funded from the unassigned general-fund balance.
Commissioners requested strong community engagement and consideration of city, tribal and regional implications. Staff said the vendor proposed public outreach and technical review of existing work by local partners, and that further phases and additional resources would be requested only after the 90-day deliverable is presented to the board.
The board approved the contract and delegated authority to the county manager to sign the purchase order.
