A surge in investment earnings set an optimistic tone at the San Juan County Commission’s April 21 meeting, where Treasurer Carol Taulbee announced the county has generated more than $2 million in returns, doubling last year’s pace and positioning the county to exceed its pre-recession high.
Commissioners heard that wildfire risk has eased slightly, approved an extension for a key road project and formalized an agreement governing county-supported public health facilities. The session closed with news of a $1 million boost for behavioral health programs and recognition of Human Resources Director Roberta Padilla, who will retire after 18 years of service.
The roughly 30-minute meeting was followed by a closed executive session to discuss possible litigation related to the movement of the Sunray or Western Gaming racing license to Clovis and to discuss the county manager’s evaluation.
Taulbee said county investments earned $2,069,407 in the six-month period ending in December 2025.
Taulbee said earnings are up 128% from fiscal year 2024 and 6% from last year, leaving the county on track to meet her $4 million target.
“We’re roughly 48% of reaching the 2008 number, which was $4.3 million. So I’d really like to exceed that.”
The return on investments improved slightly from 2.05% in fiscal year 2025 to 2.11% in fiscal year 2026, with total average invested dollars increasing 204% since fiscal year 2022, meaning the amount has more than doubled, she said.
Cash and investments as of Dec. 31 totaled $140.5 million. After adjustments and distributions to cities and schools, the county’s net balance stood at $114 million, Taulbee said.
“We’re in a very good cash position. That’s prudent administration,” Taulbee said. “We should continue to see some decent earnings through 2026 with the current investment ladder.”
Deputy Fire Chief J.D. Gilbert told commissioners some were able to attend a hazard mitigation meeting last week, where wildland fire risk and readiness were discussed.
Looking ahead to spring, Gilbert said conditions have improved mildly since earlier this year.
Warmer‑than‑average temperatures are predicted from May through July. However, above‑average precipitation forecast for Texas and the Gulf Coast in May is expected to shift toward the Four Corners region.
“That’s the greatest news we probably have so far,” Gilbert said.
He added that some models show El Niño conditions trending toward neutral.
Gilbert said the state forester has enacted fire restrictions on all unincorporated land statewide, which local agencies have been encouraging and enforcing.
Reviewing energy release indices, Gilbert said conditions are trending near average for the seven‑day forecast. The same is true for ignition components, though short‑term spikes are expected because of low relative humidity.
“We’re trending really close to average at the moment,” Gilbert said. “So much better conditions than we were just two or three weeks ago.”
He said crews are prepared to respond to emergencies, with a particular focus on wildland fire potential. One engine is pre‑positioned in the Chama District in coordination with the State Forestry Division.
A San Juan County engine crew also recently assisted in Bernalillo County.
Gilbert also updated commissioners on the San Juan County Ready Hub, which has been under development for several months.
Residents can use the site for active emergency information, evacuation orders, incident updates and guidance on how to prepare before an emergency. The department also offers on‑site evaluations to help property owners reduce wildfire risk.
For information, go to ready-sjcounty.hub.arcgis.com. to be notified of wildfire danger, go to member.everbridge.net.
Public Works Director Jimmy Porell requested an extension of a transportation project fund cooperative agreement for Road 350 resurfacing, which commissioners unanimously approved.
County Manager Mike Stark said state statute requires counties to provide suitable quarters for local public health offices. San Juan County has two such facilities, in Bloomfield and Farmington, both funded through community development block grants.
“We’re quite proud of those facilities,” Stark said.
The county is responsible for utilities and building maintenance, but not janitorial or internet services, he said. The New Mexico Department of Health now requires a formal memorandum of understanding because some counties were not in compliance.
The agreement was reviewed by the Parks and Facilities Department and the Legal Department, Stark said. Commissioners unanimously approved the item.
Stark said that through a recent workshop in Gallup with the Northwest New Mexico Council of Governments, several projects were submitted for early access funding under Senate Bill 3.
While the Behavioral Health Trust Fund approved by the Legislature will provide long‑term funding, early access funds address more immediate needs, he said.
“I’m happy to announce that we’re going to be the recipient of $1 million to further behavioral health efforts here in San Juan County – $500,000 for the Navigation Center and $500,000 for the Access Program,” Stark said.
Stark also recognized Roberta Padilla, who will retire May 10 as human resources director after 18 years with the county.
Melissa Wood, who began as an intern in benefits and became deputy human resources officer in 2011, was selected as the new human resources director.
Commissioner Sandra Lanier attended the Comcast Town Hall meeting April 18, Saturday, which drew about 35 people. Anyone needing internet service should reach out to her or Comcast.
County clerk Alyssa Kuhn said early voting begins two weeks from April 21.