Bernalillo County, NM (KKOB) — Bernalillo County Commissioners Steven Michael Quezada and Walt Benson stand in full support of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government (FOG) and its unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability in governmental affairs. In response to FOG’s recent appeal to the New Mexico Department of Justice to investigate potential violations of the New Mexico Open Meetings Act by the Bernalillo County Commission, Commissioners Quezada and Benson extend their full support for this crucial initiative.
FOG’s decision to lodge a complaint stems from numerous reports received through its public hotline, citing potential breaches of the Open Meetings Act by the commission. The concerns raised by citizens regarding a commission resolution aimed at establishing a search committee for the county manager position, in light of manager Julie Morgas Baca’s impending retirement in June, are of utmost importance.
Reports received by FOG allege that Commissioners Barbara Baca, Adriann Barboa, and Eric Olivas, entered the April 9 Bernalillo County Commission Administrative Meeting with a predetermined plan, as outlined in a news release issued by Commission Chair Baca on April 4, 2024. The disclosure of this pre-conceived plan, including the composition of the search committee they created, before the resolution’s consideration in the public meeting, raises significant concerns regarding compliance with the Open Meetings Act.
Commissioners Quezada and Benson acknowledge the seriousness of these allegations and emphasize the fundamental principles of transparency and accountability in government. Aligned with FOG’s mission to uphold transparency in government, Commissioners Quezada and Benson extend their heartfelt gratitude to the citizens who courageously came forward with their concerns, illustrating the importance of civic engagement in safeguarding democratic values.
“It is imperative that we ensure transparency and accountability in our government. I fully support the call for a thorough investigation by the New Mexico Department of Justice into the alleged violations of the Open Meetings Act by Commissioners Baca, Olivas, and Barboa,” states Commissioner Steven Michael Quezada. “Their actions continue to raise questions that the search process for the new county manager is rigged. I continue to be more and more disappointed by their actions.“
“Transparency and accountability are the bedrock of effective governance. I commend the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government for its tireless dedication to upholding these principles and ensuring that the public interest remains paramount,” says Commissioner Walt Benson, “It is our duty to our constituents to preserve the integrity of our decision-making processes and hold those who violate the public’s trust accountable.” To safeguard the integrity of the Open Meetings Act and rebuild public trust, Commissioners Quezada and Benson join the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government in urging the New Mexico Department of Justice to conduct a thorough investigation into these alleged violations of New Mexico State law by Commissioners Baca, Barboa, and Olivas.
