By Linda Stover, Bernalillo County Clerk
In the landscape of local governance, flexibility and responsiveness to community needs
are paramount. As New Mexicans prepare to vote in November 2024, a crucial ballot
initiative—Amendment 4, also referred to as the Local Compensation Act—offers a
significant opportunity for our county governments to gain the same authority cities have
long enjoyed in setting salaries for elected officials.
For over a century, a constitutional provision has tethered counties to the New Mexico
legislature when it comes to determining the salaries of their elected officials. The
legislature sets the boundary for the salaries and county commissions decide
compensation within the boundary. This boundary has not been increased since 2018,
making it often difficult to attract local leaders to run for office. This outdated requirement
not only limits local autonomy but also constrains counties’ ability to effectively manage
their budgets in an era marked by evolving financial challenges.
Municipalities throughout New Mexico have the autonomy to establish salary structures
that respond to their specific needs and priorities. Cities and towns can assess local
economic conditions, community expectations, and budgetary realities to make informed
decisions about compensation. In contrast, counties are forced to navigate a one-size
fits-all model imposed by state lawmakers, who may not know the distinct challenges
faced by rural or less populated areas.
Amendment 4 addresses this disparity head-on. By shifting the responsibility of setting
salaries for county elected officials to local boards of commissioners, county leaders will
gain the flexibility to align compensation with their financial capabilities, ensuring that they
can attract and retain dedicated public servants while being fiscally responsible.
Counties across New Mexico are grappling with increasing demands for services, from
public safety to infrastructure maintenance. Providing counties with the authority to set
their own salaries means they can tailor compensation packages to the realities of their
financial landscapes, which vary widely from one county to another.
Moreover, Amendment 4 recognizes that local governments are best positioned to
understand their own needs. By granting them the flexibility to decide when—or if—salary
adjustments are necessary, Amendment 4 fosters a governance model that prioritizes
accountability and responsiveness. Local officials will be able to make decisions that
resonate with the community’s expectations and economic conditions, ultimately leading
to more effective governance.
As we approach this pivotal vote, it is essential for New Mexicans to understand the
implications of Amendment 4. The ability for counties to set their own elected officials’
salaries is not just about compensation; it’s about strengthening local governance,
enhancing community engagement, and ensuring that elected officials are held
accountable to the people they serve.
Empowering Local Governments: The Case for Amendment 4 in New Mexico
By Linda Stover, Bernalillo County Clerk
In conclusion, Amendment 4 represents a significant step toward empowering county
governments across New Mexico. As we cast our votes this November, let’s choose to
support local control and the principles of responsive governance.
