Estancia, a town in New Mexico, is facing a water crisis that has led to a no confidence vote in its current mayor. Residents are blaming management for infrastructure shortfalls, which have been exacerbated by an audit delaying well construction.

Water Crisis Worsens

Ben Bosma, a resident of Estancia, stated that this is not the first time the town has faced a water crisis. He emphasized the need for the town to conserve water and comply with the town’s ordinance. Bosma also expressed concerns about the town’s leadership, citing a lack of transparency and accountability.

Mayor Runnel Riley, who is currently on a 45-day leave of absence due to health complications, defended his approach to addressing the crisis. He stated that the biggest roadblock to resolving the issue is misappropriated funds and uncertified audits. Riley noted that the town has hired an audit company to address these issues and expects to receive a clean audit soon, which will allow them to access funds needed to drill a well.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.