Ballot initiative would shift decisions to local officials

Amendment 4 on the November ballot could affect 300 plus county elected officials throughout the state of New Mexico.

New Mexico Counties is providing information to voters on legislation on the November 2024 ballot that proposes local control of the salaries of county elected officials. The change would allow local county governments the same control and flexibility that cities have when making salary decisions that reflect local financial realities.

The initiative – The Local Compensation Amendment – is Amendment 4 on the November 5 ballot.

The Local Compensation Amendment - Amendment 4 is intended to create fairness in local government.

Right now, cities have more control over elected officials’ compensation than counties do. Amendment 4 would level the playing field, giving counties the same ability to make important financial decisions based on their own local needs.

The Local Compensation Amendment – Amendment 4 – is about empowering local governments to act responsibly based on what their specific county can afford. Therefore, a shift in decision-making authority to local boards of commissioners would ensure that any changes reflect the community’s needs and financial health, rather than adhering to a blanket decision by legislators that applies to all counties.

Since New Mexico became a state, counties have been unable to set the salaries of their elected officials. If the Local Compensation Amendment - Amendment 4 - passes, it would allow individual counties to make their own financial decisions locally, without relying on the state for approval.