Please note: This is an unofficial summary provided for general informational purposes only and does not represent the official board meeting minutes.
Special Board Meeting Recap – June 17, 2025
The Timberon Water & Sanitation District board held a special meeting on Tuesday afternoon, June 17, at the Lodge. All five board members were present along with Board Secretary Nanette Thorell, Office Manager Wendy Case, and Water Plant Operator David Hunter.
After the Pledge and salute to the New Mexico flag, the board approved the agenda and quickly entered a closed session to discuss two personnel matters.
Key Personnel Decisions
When the board returned to open session, they took the following actions:
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Wendy Case was officially offered the position of General Manager, which she accepted.
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David Hunter was reinstated as Water Plant Operator, resuming his prior duties.
Insurance Coverage Updates
The board also reviewed the District’s insurance policies. TWSD currently holds liability, property, equipment, vehicle, and workers’ comp coverage. One umbrella policy—called the Insurance Funding Policy—is up for review.
The board voted to authorize their broker to shop for competitive bids on the district’s liability insurance.
Health Insurance Approved
After a brief review, the board unanimously approved employee health insurance that now includes the option for family coverage.
Meeting Minutes Approved
Minutes from the June 10 regular meeting were reviewed and approved without changes.
Public Comment Sparks Debate
During the public comment portion, resident Jeffrey Merrick read a list of questions and raised several concerns:
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He asked why Treasurer Duckett couldn’t sign checks. Vice Chair Hardesty said he’d personally accompany him to the bank to get it resolved.
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He criticized the lack of printed bank balance reports, to which Chairman Cruey noted that balances are read aloud monthly and available upon request.
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Merrick alleged that water testing and treatment had lapsed during a suspension, but Cruey assured the public that certified operators had kept everything running.
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He mentioned organizing a petition for board resignations, though no details on signature numbers were provided.
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He also claimed fire safety was at risk due to low water levels. Chairman Cruey said he had spoken directly with Fire Chief McWilliams, who confirmed water tank levels were acceptable. He also reminded everyone that only the fire chief is authorized to speak to those matters.
Unfortunately, the discussion became heated and unproductive toward the end of the meeting.
Meeting Adjourned
The meeting adjourned at 4:42 PM.