Serving the High Plains

EPCOG approves budget

CLAYTON — The Eastern Plains Council of Governments retained all officers, authorized the sale of three properties and approved the 2017-18 budget during its annual meeting Wednesday in Clayton.

The budget will be tight, but with approved adjustments EPCOG should be fine, said Erick Robinson, the council’s accountant.

Officials from the eastern New Mexico communities participating met Tuesday with the officers at the Herzstein Historical Museum, voting to approve items that include a cost allocation plan that outlines EPCOG priorities.

The council also passed a resolution supporting water conservation.

EPCOG Chairman Fidel Madrid said the council will work to provide information to help promote water conservation.

The council also approved the board to look into the sale of the San Jon Estates, Ruth Visage Apartments in Portales and Rio Pecos Estates in Santa Rosa.

Director Sandy Chancey said the cost of managing and maintaining the properties has become too much for the council.

She said the plan is to sell to a company that will continue the operation of the properties and retain current tenants.