Encino Village Council addresses water access, cemetery ownership, and equipment purchases in April meeting

The Encino Village Council held a regular meeting on April 14, 2026, addressing infrastructure questions, property ownership issues, and routine administrative business.

Council members present included Mayor Elias Sanchez, Mayor Pro Tem Victor Gallegos, Herman Garcia, Stephen Guyman, and Town Clerk Angel Sanchez. Councilor Corine Perez was not present.

Water line access discussed for Goodson property

During public discussion, Patrick Pachta asked the council about the possibility of restoring water service to property on the west side of NM-3.

Pachta said historical records show water service may have existed decades ago, but no recent activity has been documented for at least 25 years. He proposed covering all costs associated with reconnecting service if the village approved access.

Council members noted that older water lines in the area were likely abandoned when newer infrastructure was installed. They advised that any work crossing the highway would require coordination with the New Mexico Department of Transportation.

Village officials indicated that Pachta could potentially tap into an existing line on the east side of the highway and route service across, provided proper permits and fees are obtained. No formal action was taken, and Pachta was advised to begin the permitting process.

Cemetery ownership status unclear

The council approved moving forward with efforts to clarify ownership of a local cemetery after discussion revealed the village may not legally own the land.

Officials said updated county records show the property is currently listed as privately owned, despite long-standing assumptions that it had been donated to the village.

Council members agreed to begin contacting current property owners to seek a formal transfer or deed. A motion to pursue that process was approved.

Surplus vehicle sales process moves forward

The council approved opening a bidding process for the sale of surplus vehicles, including a dump truck and a Ford Explorer.

Officials said required approvals from the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration and the state auditor’s office had been received. Bids will be accepted through May 11, with results expected to be reviewed at the next meeting.

Fire department equipment purchase approved

The council approved the purchase of a fire hydrant meter for approximately $1,400.

Officials said the meter will allow the village to track water usage during fire response, hydrant flushing, or other authorized uses.

Administrative and project updates

During administrative reports, officials discussed planning for the Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan (ICIP) cycle for fiscal years 2028–2032. Council members were asked to begin identifying priority projects for future funding requests.

The village also reported submitting its third quarterly report and noted progress on grant applications, including a potential $50,000 award for equipment such as a vehicle, mower, or tractor.

Clerk/Treasurer Angel Sanchez reported progress on the Clean and Beautiful grant program, including plans to plant approximately 60 trees around village facilities and cemeteries.

Water and sanitation report highlights discrepancies

The water report showed the village purchased 177,000 gallons of water in March but sold 233,000 gallons, resulting in a discrepancy of 56,000 gallons.

Officials attributed the difference to inconsistencies in meter readings performed by the town of Vaughn and said they are working with providers to correct the issue.

Public comments and general discussion

During public comment, residents suggested improving communication about available waste disposal services, noting that some dumpsters provided through grants had gone unused.

Council members also discussed ongoing maintenance, fire department activity, and community improvements, with several expressing appreciation for village staff.

Next meeting

The next regular Encino Village Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at 6:00 PM.