County Asks For Help From State

By John Severance

SOCORRO -- Storms the past two weeks have forced the county emergency management team to ask for help.
On Tuesday, County fire marshal Fred Hollis asked the county commissioners to declare an emergency after flooding affected the La Joya area, Bosquecito Road, roads in Hop Canyon, Routes 127 and 131.
“I don’t know how much the state will give us the damage is extensive,” Hollis said.
The commissioners unanimously approved a resolution, making a disaster declaration for the county, which suffered damage caused by heavy rains and flash flooding from July 21 to Aug. 5.
Hollis said it was not just one storm that did the damage.
“Cumulatively, it was pretty bad,” Hollis said. “We’ve had three or four storms between July 21 and the other day on August 4.
“We have to tell the state we have used up our resources and we are asking for help. It’s overwhelming us now.”
Magdalena mayor Sandy Julian paid a visit to the commission and brought along two members of the newly formed youth council.
They inquired about the availability of the old senior center building on Spruce Street as a possible venue for the youth council.
Magdalena sophomore Martin Harris addressed the commission, telling the group what the council would use the building for.
“This is something the kids in Magdalena need,” Harris said. “I believe by working in a youth group and with the help of the Village Council, we would be better citizens.”
Commissioner R.J. Griego said, “You are role models for your school and village and I am sure the mayor is proud of you, as is the commission.”
Although the commission appreciated the youths’ efforts and it wanted to help, bureaucracy always seems to get in the way.
County attorney Adren Nance said an anti-donation clause prohibits the commission for giving the council the building. He suggested getting help from the school or the council.
Julian then said, “I don’t think we can afford to buy anything.”
Commission chair Rosie Tripp said, “You would not be buying it. You would be responsible for upkeep and having somebody over see the youth. You’re just a sponsoring agent.”
Julian replied that “I will have to talk to the board and see what they think about being a sponsor. I don’t want to say yes and have them say no. I really can’t say yes or no at this time.”
County manager Deliah Walsh said, “The cause is wonderful. The county can not afford to provide utilities and maintenance. We are all in the same budget situation.”
Julian said the matter would be discussed at the next Village Council meeting on Aug. 23.
Commissioner Philip Anaya suggested “we should send a maintenance group up there and get it cleaned up.”

County Asks For Help From State