This week, the Office of Superintendent of Insurance’s (OSI) Fraud Bureau begins increased efforts to combat rising auto theft crimes. With Governor Susana Martinez’s recent signature, House Bill 173, sponsored by Representative William R. Rehm, created a New Mexico Auto Theft Prevention Authority within the jurisdiction of the OSI’s Enforcement Division. The bill further supports current statewide law enforcement efforts underway through the multi-jurisdictional “Auto Theft Task Force” led by the Fraud Bureau. Working with local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, the Auto Theft Task Force strives to reduce auto crimes as well as work with statewide district attorneys to prosecute new and backlogged cases. The new authority allows OSI to seek private and grant funding to support the task force’s efforts further. Superintendent Franchini will begin working to establish the Authority’s Board of Directors, and each year will provide reporting to the legislature on the Authority’s impact and progress towards its goals.
The Pino Altos Fire Department will be hosting an Open House next month on Saturday, April 14th at the Cottage San Road Station. Residents living in Grant County north of Silver City may consider joining the Pinos Altos Volunteer Fire Rescue. All equipment and training is provided by the department. The open house event will provide education regarding the volunteer fire service, equipment demonstrations, and fire safety gifts and door prizes. For more information, contact Lucy Witmarsh, the Pinos Altos Fire Chief at 575-574-8394.
The Deming City Council discussed and debated whether to amend the city ordinance regarding compensation for City Council members and the Mayor. The council has had the same pay rate since 2012. According to the current ordinance, Deming’s mayor receives $962.50 per month, the Mayor Pro Tem $660, and other councilors $577.50. The discussion included the time the council spends in addition to public meetings that consists of constituent phone calls, home visits, and public service that extends through weekends. The council approved a motion to consider an ordinance updating their pay, which will be brought to the council at a future meeting.
In celebration of “World Water Day”, the Silver City Watershed Keepers in association with Steam Dynamics, will facilitate a two-day event titled, “Nature for Water” on March 22nd through 24th. The event will focus on nature-based solutions to water challenges. The organization will hold a community discussion and TED Talk regarding local water issues on Thursday, March 22nd at the WNMU’s Parotti Hall at 6:00 P.M. On Saturday, March 24th, the Silver City Watershed Keepers will hold a day of service at the Silver City Visitors Center at 9:00 A.M. The Gila Resources Information Project created the Silver City Watershed Keepers in 2010 as a citizen’s water resources stewardship program that engages community members in protection and restoration of the Silver City Watershed. Visit gilaresources.info for additional information.
